Reviews by User: tk (3)

The Slingshot Ranger is an ok kite if you're looking to get into snow kiting cheap. Be aware that the 12m has a limited range (from 8 knots to about 15), and tends to suffer from wingtip fold in low winds. So, when the wind is low, the kite performs poorly, and when the wind is picking up, you quickly overpower. I fly the Ranger fully sheeted out, otherwise the kite tends to dangerously backstall. If you did not understand this last statement, this kite is probably not for you. The bar is nicely featured - the quick release from the chickenloop works well, and the sheeting system is placed under the bar where it is easy to get to. The stopper ball system works well, but if left out too far will tend to overfly the kite which then backstalls. I would recommend flying leashed to provide maximum safety, as your main safety is the quick release on the chicken loop. When engaged, this leaves you disconnected from the kite, which then heads downwind and is either lost forever or takes out a truck full of kittens. The Ranger does not offer as much lift as more recent foil designs, but does have excellent glide. The kite flies slowly for its size, making your timing critical if you're looking for big air. However, if you can dial in your timing, this kite will produce nice hang time. I would not buy a Ranger unless I needed a big foil and couldn't afford a more full-featured kite. Foil designs have come a long way since the Ranger. They are cheap, but you get what you pay for.

This is an exceedingly well made, well designed tent that offers a bit of comfort in your pack without weighing it down. Two storm worthy bivy sacks weigh as much as this tent sans vestible, and the tent is much more comfortable. Set up is simple. I'm 6'3" tall, and bought this tent understanding that I am too long for it. Laying parallel in the tent, I can almost stretch out if I am willing to put my face in the fabric. It is still more comfortable than a bivy sack and much faster than digging a cave. Condensation is considerable, even with good venting. Friends have used this tent on Denali and Blackburn and put it through some serious tests.

If you are a light person looking for a lightweight trail shoe, this may be a good bet. Bigger people should stay away. It feels a bit like running in grocery store flip-flops - every rock and root is felt underfoot. Additionally, they are sized a little small. I lost a toenail on my first long run in these shoes, and I had bought them a half size big. This is the first pair of running shoes I've had that I've considered returning.