Reviews by User: Garrett Grove (228)

I have found this to be a steal of a deal for me. The gear is all quality, not the best, but great to move me up to the next level. A flexible and forgiving ride that lets me make mistakes without grabbing an edge and falling. Since it is all Burton they all fit together perfectly like puzzle pieces.

Despite the looks not being what I would prefer, I love the function of this watch. I never use a digital compass anyway, so I do not miss it on this. The altimeter is super accurate, and using the rate of ascent is a handy tool to figure out how long you will be hiking for. Never had any problems with it and the watch is a bit smaller then say the Suunto Vector, so for smaller wrists this is a nice option to have.

These are my ski of choice for ski mountaineering. They hold an edge with the best of them for those steep hairy, icy descents. Pretty lightweight and great response to my movements. Very snappy and lively and can make very tight turns when you need them. Overall very reliable and proven ski.

I have spent some good time in many different bivies but none can compare to this one. Extremely breathable and totally waterproof. A very durable fabric and the tie-in points are an important feature when needed. Not too tight or too wide, just right. A minimalist bivy with some breathing room. Only complaint is not as durable as some other fabrics but will hold up to tons of abuse.

These are my ski of choice for ski mountaineering. They hold an edge with the best of them for those steep hairy, icy descents. Pretty lightweight and great response to my movements. Very snappy and lively and can make very tight turns when you need them. Overall very reliable and proven ski.

I went from an expensive do it all heart rate monitor to this watch. Why? Because in the end I realized all I really needed was the basics and that is what this gives. Great heart rate accuracy and simple design. Durable and a medium/small faced watch.

I have used MSRs for a long time, and the Lightning Ascents are my favorites now. Very light, super strong and hold in even the iciest of snow conditions. Hardly feel like I have anything on my feet, really easy to put on, and the ascent bar is an amazing help when going up consistently steep terrain.

I had only tried on a few pairs of Mad Rocks in years past. Once I put these on, I loved them. I have a medium profile foot with a big heel, and they fit great. Their rubber does not rub off quickly like older versions, and the grip is very sticky at the same time. The price is really what got me for this great performance, all around shoe.

Man this boot always turns heads, the brightest, most stylish boot around. Danny Kass designed this one perfectly. The power straps really tighten that boot very snugly and the fit is extremely comfortable. Not the stiffest boot out there, but I still love taking it nearly anywhere on the mountain. No complaints- an amazing freestyle boot.

After riding a big, heavy, sidewall ski for the last year then strapping these on my feet with some dynafit bindings I did not know what to do. They are so responsive to the littlest movement. Have tons of snap and can handle themselves pretty well in the deep powder also. Not as good as my heavy sidewall skis for powder though. But definitely a one ski quiver. I am impressed with how quickly it can turn and holds an edge with amazing confidence on the hard pack. Not too big of a fan of the graphics...but really who cares about that?

As a snowboard instructor I see tons of kids snowboards and hear all about them. Of any one I see and play around with, testing flex and watching kids ride. This one stands out as an excellent performer. A bit more advanced then the average kids board but not so much so that it is hard to control. Great for the natural little rider who needs to step up from his Wal-Mart beginning board.

Finally a jacket that is not too long or too short. This jacket is great and totally waterproof. The Gore-Tex XCR is un-beatable and lightweight. I like the zip-in compatibility, zip in my north face Denali on the colder days and it works excellent. I am 6'1" 170 and like the fit of the medium.

These are what I take backpacking, hiking or as an emergency waterproof layer on alpine climbs to go over my softshell pants. They are pretty durable for their weight and a good medium fitting pant (not tight or loose). They shed the water very well. Would like to see a waterproof zipper running down the sides to reduce bulk and weight more.

With the semi aggressive pick and short shaft with grip I take this on many outings. The pick is durable and takes hold of ice very well. I was trying to decide on a general mountaineering axe or a ice tool and the venom fits what I need perfectly. A great alpine tool!

I have used MSRs for a long time, and the Lightning Ascents are my favorites now. Very light, super strong and hold in even the iciest of snow conditions. Hardly feel like I have anything on my feet, really easy to put on, and the ascent bar is an amazing help when going up consistently steep terrain.

I have done experiments with these bags to see if they are actually waterproof by dunking them filled with paper to soak up water if it leaks though. The paper comes out totally dry. On top of that they are tough and can handle many years of use. Big fan of these bags.

I have used Camelbacks for years and they have done the job, but this hydration bladder by MSR tops the list. Never worried about it tearing or popping, the water comes out very easily and am yet to experience any leaks.

This pack is amazing for in-bounds and short out-of-bounds riding. Holds your ski or board super tight and the hydration sleeve keeps me sipping on water. The fit is excellent, they really nailed it on the head with this pack. Very comfortable, wish it was a bit bigger like 32 liters for longer tours or to fit camera equipment.

My favorite feature on these pants is the full length zip. I cannot stress how many times I have used that zipper to get me warm fast in uncomfortable situations. The material is a bit, um, tearable and snags easy. I have stitched them up a few times now. But the warmth to weight ratio is unbeatable. Great emergency warmth when you need it. Keeps up its loft very well too.

This is one of my favorite big touring skis. Cuts through the crud and opens up when you want them to. A bit sluggish in trees, but that is not what they are designed for. Very stiff and lightweight, similar to the Black Diamond Verdict but a little more agile.

I have used both the Zealot and the Celestial. All my squabbles were answered. More pockets, better ventilation, and adjustable wrists. This is the perfect jacket for nearly anything. Again the zipper is a bit tight but loosens and improves with use.

This is my favorite jacket, and I have a few of them. I use it biking, climbing, skiing, backpacking or just casually. It has kept me dry in everything except consistent hard rain. Owned it for a year now and put some hard use on it and it is still holding up very well. Could have a bit more stretch to it though. Sizing is narrow and long like most of Patagonia stuff. Those with broad big shoulders might size up one or try on first. A great jacket for sure. Fitting is true to size, I am 6'2” 175 pounds and wear a medium.

I have tried cleaning out my hydration system with soap and the whole works and somehow it still retains that funk but with a soapy flavor. These clean out your hydration bladder or funky Nalgene extremely well and leave no bitter taste when all done. Well worth the money and time!

Like all the Never Summer boards I have ridden this is a tank. Can destroy anything and is impossible to destroy. I love the three year warranty they company gives it. This can really turn quick when needed but does the best in the deep stuff and long big turns. It loves to go fast and can handle cruddy snow very well. Not the best for the groomers or hard packed snow in general.

With it's 87m underfoot and a wide big shovel, the T Rock is floaty while at the same time it is maintaining efficient carviness. I find this to be an exceptional all-around ski, this wood-cored beauty is ideal for dancing among the aspens and hauling in the open bowls in the backcountry. Volkl can't seem to do anything wrong with their skis these days, and this is a prime example.

I got this to protect my down bag in wet environments and it keeps it totally dry and compresses to an smaller size. The straps are strong and the bag is durable. Can't complain about this bag in any way.

I love this Burton pant for resort riding and backcountry. Very comfortable and stylish but not overly baggy like some. Extremely durable, and I never get wet in them at all! Fit is a little short compared to other snowboarding pants so you might want to jump up a size. I am 6ft 2in, 175lb and have a large - wish I had an XL for the length.

I have put these gloves to some serious abuse during the winter seasons and they still are holding up very strong. My fingers stay warm in them in all but the coldest conditions (10 Degrees and below). I have used many gloves and the way these are cut keep me happy and my fingers warm. Good dexterity but could be a bit better.

Not necessary on most days but for those cold ones this is great! Super warm and breathable, you cannot beat the quality and performance of wool. Very durable, no holes in them yet and they dry very quick without a stench.

I use touring pants that do not have built in gaitors but I don't want to use full on gaitors to just keep that snow out. These do the job for me wonderfully. They do not ride up or down, they stay put nicely and no snow gets in my boots when going into the deep stuff!

I have used the comfort for many years and loved it, now that they came out with the Vertical my life is better. It is even more responsive and rigid then the comfort and lighter! The extension to snap the boots in is a great addition for when your fingers are cold and cannot click in to your older Dynafits. The din will match and other AT bindings out there, I can take steep and deep lines, even some drops and never pop out. Best AT binding on the market!

This is not as stiff as say the Driver X by Burton, but it is a near second. But I find the stiff flex and how well it fits to be more then comparable to any other stiff boot. Never had any problems with the BOA lacing and like using it a lot. BOA does not get as tight as I might prefer, but the stiffness of the boots makes up for it.

Wish this could hold more water and still be this nice to run with. Use on my long trail runs and it hardly holds me down, much more comfortable than a backpack for runs. Fits very well and rides great on the back.

I have used these in 10 Degree temps and my hands still seem to keep warm. I can tie knots with them, great dexterity but still my hands will keep warm. These are a great do it all glove from Black Diamond. I have used them for 90 days of skiing and numerous climbs and they still retain the same warmth and performance. Oh and by the way my hands stay totally dry too.

I have used Keen in the past and their wide toe box and classic fit keeps me coming back. I use these for my everyday shoes and some light hiking. Not my shoe of preference for full day hikes but for a casual stroll they work great. The shank really stiffens up the sole to be able to carry a 15 pound pack with more comfort. True to size.

Smith finally has pretty much perfected their turbo fan technology. The box is smaller and does not flip on when you dont want it to. The batteries last for a very long time too. As far as the goggles go- very comfortable and provide plenty of vision. My favorite goggles.

Man this is a great thing to bring along on you rock climbing road trips. Perch it up next to your car and wallah you are set. Never though I would be caught dead with one of these until I saw another person using it and I copied there idea. Good room inside and fast and fun way to camp.

Been using this bag for a while now and taken a few trips with it and my stuff always stays in one piece. I throw it two snowboards and two pairs of boots, great storage space. The fabric is very dense and durable and protects your precious cargo with the best of them. The wheels are a great option to have when lugging around 40+ pounds of cargo. No complaints with this at all!

I take this beanie all over the place. Its snug fit, great drying abilities, and lightweight is awesome. Fits great under your climbing helmet when it is cold out. It breathes very well also. Does not pill or lose form over the years.

My favorite feature on these pants is the full length zip. I cannot stress how many times I have used that zipper to get me warm fast in uncomfortable situations. The material is a bit, um, tearable and snags easy. I have stitched them up a few times now. But the warmth to weight ratio is unbeatable. Great emergency warmth when you need it. Keeps up its loft very well too.

Skis well on groomed - like a cruiser it is very comfortable and predictable to use. Cuts and busts up crud well. It's a fun, mid-speed carving ski that seems to like to dodge, dart, and play. Great for ski mountaineering or icy descents.

This is the super light, take only the essentials touring pack. I use it on my short yo-yo days around the resort most of the time when I do not need any extras. Holds the stuff in tight without a bunch of clanging around on my back. Makes skiing easier without all the extra weight back there too.

I use these when I have a route that has a bit of everything in it. Glacier slog, steep chutes and even a few good icy pitches. They hold there own very very well and are a great do it all crampon.

One of my favorite backcountry meals to have is bean and cheese burritos, lots of calories and protein and they taste great. I used to bring canned black beans and tried some other brands but these ones are the best by far. Take them with me on nearly every trip now, I have even used them at home for dinner.

Like the name says this is a classic beanie, with classic features. Wool. Not synthetic high tech features in this, which I like. It has a medium depth which is good for all but the biggest heads of hair. Not itchy and very warm.

I did not believe that a pair of tights could make such a difference. But they really do. I trained all winter for a ultra marathon and these kept me warm without getting all sweaty. Supported my muscles and greatly reduced my fatigue. I could go for a bit less flashy looking design though.

Put these puts through the gauntlet and they are still holding up strong. They fit a medium to narrow profiled foot the best though. I wear size 9.5 street shoe and the 27.5 fits like a glove, perfect for me. Very stiff although the flex is sort of un-natural; it flexes a bit then just stops totally. Personally I like the flex and fit of a Scarpa boot more for my foot. But if you are looking for the stiffest boot that you can still skin comfortably in this is it for sure.

Calling anyone looking for a one ski quiver!! This is it, big, nimble, light and fat. A bit heavy for a good long touring ski but for those resort skiers who go on shorter tours this is a great ski too. Pretty quick in the trees and will not quite open up in those long bowls where you want to take 4 turns instead of 8. This ski does a great job at everything but does not excel at anything, thus the one ski quiver nomination. Somewhat of a soft ski and basically Fischer's Kahua ski with a different top sheet. I would highly recommend this ski for anyone who wants a bigger ski that can do it all.