Reviews by User: Jamie Preston (58)

I skied this ski last season at Snowbird and in BC, in epic blower, and more condensed boot top conditions in a 184. This is a super ski which nicely bridges the gap between the Gotama and the too soft Sanouk (which was great in pure powder). The ski initiates very easily and you can ski it fast, or hit tight spots without worries - it was terrific in BC trees. The float is great with no loss of feel. You cannot go wrong with this ski.

With the advent of the Maker Duke and Baron, there is simply no need for this setup anymore. For a little extra money you can get a touring binding that is as good as any alpine binding out there without the hassles attendant with this rig. With the Trekkers you are very high off the ski, which can make skinning tough, you have lots of adjustments to deal with and there are numerous steps to get ready to ski once you get to the top of the skin. And, then there is the weight issue. These were a great alternative when they came out, not so much anymore. I have kept my pair for visitors, but they have become a last resort. I give these 3 stars because they do work, but consider the other options first.

I got these for my wife, who is a strong intermediate who tended to shy away from big powder (we live in Utah, go figure). These transformed her powder skiing - she was much more confident, the skis are clearly easy to turn and float well. At the end of her first run she beamed and said "Now I get it!!". Ironically I am sure that these were designed for the hard chargers, but they clearly work on a sliding scale nicely.

I got this ski last March and so had it through the epic spring we had in Utah. I skied this numerous times at Alta, Snowbird and The Canyons sidecountry. The beauty of this ski is multifold. The super wide tip displaces so much snow, that every turn is a face shot (and I am 6'1") - which is nice. This distinguishes the Kuro from the Sumo - that ski just kept you on the surface - so much so that at times it felt like you might as well have been skiing a groomer. This ski is much different from the Sumo. It also makes those days were there is only 6-8 inches enjoyable because you are quickly on top of the surface that existed before the storm - your experience is much different from (and better) than that of those even on a 100 plus underfoot conventional fat ski. And, when you have the deep untracked powder this ski is truly designed for - well then it gets ridiculously fun. You won't ski powder this fast with this much control,and so little quad burn. Just be ready with a witty rejoinder or two when the liftline comments start about how fat these are!

It is hard to believe that only a few years ago a ski this width would be considered fat, now by western standards at least, this is a mid fat, all mountain ski. In the big winter that was 2008 in Utah, I skied these a ton. I put a Duke on them, so used them for moderate length tours, but also skied them many days in resort. This is a great ski for an area like Park City, or even Stowe - they work in such a wide variety of conditions. However, when it gets really deep you want something fatter (think Katana or Gotama). What is nice is you can throw this ski on if you don't really know where you are gonna ski, or with who. If you end up on groomers, they can hold their own, but if you get pulled into crud, powder or a little sidecountry, you still have the right tool for the job. They get squirrely if you ask them to perform on steep, icy, hard snow. There, they feel a little like an old straight slalom ski, somewhat skiddy - but to be fair that is not what Volkl had in mind when they designed this ski. The term "one ski quiver" is an overused cliche, but appropriate for the Mantra.

I am a sweaty mess on a bike or hike, and have been searching for a sunglass that does not leave me blind shortly into the ride. Lots of promises by other products, not much delivery. I think I have finally found the solution in this Oakley Rader. The fancy new coating seems to do the trick as promised. I have only been out a few times with these, but I already feel much safer now that I can actually see where I am going! Give these a try for sure.

I first saw this pack in the Chicago airport Hilton as people scrambled to get rooms when flights were canceled. Midnight, and a 4 year old kid was sound asleep in the pack. We got this in addition to the Deuter Kid carrier - and it seemed a little confusing with all the straps and adjustments - but once you get over the initial "how does it work?" hump, it is great. Our one year old seems to love being close to the parent, but high enough to take in all the action. We use it for around town and short walks. Note, they advertise this as providing your kid a break - it is not a true long hike pack. Go for the framepack for longer hikes - the support is simply better. But, this pack can be carry on when you travel, as opposed to the framepack which you need to check. This pack is surprisingly comfortable and works as advertised.

I am a little chagrined to admit that I have these and the 6.6 (long story), both are terrific shoes but I prefer this shoe by a cat's whisker. I really like the extra snug fit you can get with the twist type buckle - you can really micro adjust these, and do it well pretty safely on the fly. I have heard people shy away from this shoe because they are afraid it will break - no issues after about 1000 miles and no sign of wear. I always went for a cheaper, more flexible shoe before a serious biker friend of mine talked me into the High end Sidi. I thought the super stiff sole would be uncomfortable, but that is simply not the case. It feels like a custom fit shoe, and I have had no comfort issues, even on long rides. As with most high end bike shoes and ski boots, you will need to replace the wafer thin insole that comes with the shoe. They provide no support whatsoever. I actually use my Surefoot insole with these shoes. If this is in your budget, give this shoe a try, you are unlikely to be disappointed.

I skied the first Gotama in March 2003 when people could not believe how fat they were - it was a great ski then and continues to this day. I skied this version at Snowbird and BC last winter. They are more "all around" friendly with time due to the evolution in the sidecut, but will not disappoint on their best days - monster powder days! Also, the tail has mellowed, which makes it easier for the people trying to catch you to see as you rip through the powder.

This goggle has all the pluses of Smith goggles - style, good fit and does a great job of not fogging up. Good lens selection and a variety of color options. But, it is advertised as a medium fit goggle, and it probably works better for a bigger face. If you have a small medium face, go with the Fuse or Phenom goggle.

The toe cap on these are just great. I started years ago with a Burton highback (actually has 3 straps). The stiffness and toecap make this a great choice if you are a control oriented rider. My brother in law who rides the bumps in Telluride loves them for their quickness. A good choice!

This is a great a product - no sugar - just the electrolytes you need in a simple and convenient form. Avoid hyonatremia with these without filling up with empty calories - find the real food or energy bar of your choice for that.

This is a great sunglass for all the reasons people have stated - lightweight, stylish, and great for sports. If you have a larger mug, you might opt for the Flak jacket.

Buy this in screaming yellow and be seen out on the road. OK, it is just a lightweight shell, but aside from the visibility plus it is versatile. It is a jacket and a vest, and it squishes down to nothing to fit in your jersey pocket. Perfect for the cool ride, or to throw on for a long descent. I throw this in I have any question about warmth on a borderline day, and wear the vest when commuting on all but the warmest days.

I got these first at a PI store where the guy said they were strictly a road biking glove - which may explain the complaints about padding (thinking MTB use?). I love them - light, supple pittards leather and they absorb sweat great. I think they are great!

A shirt is generally just a shirt - but sometimes you find one that is just nice and comfortable - this is this shirt for me - this is my go-to. Comfortable and looks good.

Hard to believe you could get excited about a water bottle, but this thing is great. I love the valve because you can just leave it open the entire ride and not worrying about spillage. I feel much safer having to just squeeze the bottle to grab a drink rather than wrestling with a conventional top each time. If you use Nunn tablets give them a while to settle out before heading out for the ride though - or you can get a shot of water to the face. I suggest you buy one and see if you like it - from the reviews, you are totally on board, or not. I think this is a great product.

I have found that Giro bike helmets just don't work for my head - I need a Bell. I found the same thing with this helmet - I am sure it is great for the right head, but I could just could not get it to feel comfortable. I cannot tell you what the factor is - but you might check this at the shop before ordering. I give this 3 stars but I am sure it is 5 for the right head.

I guess there is some confusion about what this jacket works best for. For me it has been my second insulating layer for skiing and touring for the last six seasons. It is perfect for that use,particularly touring where it frequently quickly becomes the outer layer. I wear it under a hard shell - usually an Arcteryx Comp Hoody if touring or the TNF FreeThinker if in resort, and over a fleece turtleneck. I used to wear it around town, but after all these years I cannot shake the faint odor that is the by product of hard skiing. It has held up great to many years of use and washes. I would say what I say about most softshells of this generation, ie not bonded with some waterproofing material - this is not a jacket to buy as your only outdoor jacket. I am astounded when I see people using this as their outer layer on a stormy day. On the other hand it is great for spring skiing. For what it is used for, I have found it to be perfect.

Anytime a company changes a good thing I cringe. When I was having a hard time finding the Pro 2 this spring I was worried. The next generation is just as good. A nice smooth tire with low rolling resistance. They are also durable - my road ride begins and ends with a mile of dirt road - other than some of the other softer tires out there, no problems. This is great tire that upholds the reputation of its predecessors.

In an effort to get my wife something other than the default Arcteryx or TNF shells, I ordered this for a Christmas present. It is over a month away from "field testing", but out of the box it is a stunner. Great color, (Blue Atoll)nice details. I suspect that wearing this will garner her the comments that people wearing Arcteryx in 2000 heard. Aesthetics are awesome - will report on actual use after Christmass

There is no doubt that this is a deep powder ski that you will also love in only 4 inches of snow. It is very easy to initiate a turn on these skis because this was Volkl's first foray into a "reverse" camber ski, the most noticeable aspect being the flat tip. It also completely destroys any crud or cut up powder you encounter. While I agree this ski works on the groomers, that is obviously not their preferred venue. Deep snow is where this snow excels. But, if budget constraints limit you to a powder ski primarily, this will get you through the dry spells better than many other "pure" powder skis. The Katana is also very versatile for a big ski - you can ski tight trees like you find in Eagles nest at Alta, or you can ski the the Cirque at Snowbird in three turns - your choice - both will be really fun on this ski.

I got my Sidewinder in 2001 when I had to go to Montreal to buy it. It is still going strong - still sheds water, still comfy and when I pulled it out last year to "recycle" it seemed new. The only bummer is that you feel guilty when you go to replace it. The only weakness is the lack of a few more pockets - I sometimes wonder if the guys in Canada need to take their keys and wallet with them when they ski!

This is a great jacket that is very warm and comfortable without being bulky. Also, it is nice and wind and weather resistant. I have never been cold or wet skiing this on a powder day. It is definitely a resort jacket - does not squinch small like other down jackets (not supposed to though, and they are not wind and water resistant). Too hot for the backcountry. But, when it is chilly and you want to get your fill at the resort, this is a great choice. The hood also works great with my Giro Fuse helmet.

I love the Fish, but it really requires untracked to really shine. This is a great compromise for the reality that most of us face - cut up powder. But, if you do hit untracked, this thing rocks. I have heliboarded twice in BC on this and it is great. Stable, slashy and great float.

The reviewers have this nailed - this is the perfect workout T shirt. It is comfortable, wears well and wicks with ease. It even performs under east coast summer humid conditions - it stays comfortable where other brands can get downright slimy. A great choice for a workout shirt.

It took me a while to get into the Smartwool thing, but now I am a bit of an addict. These are comfortable, wear well and keep my feet dry. It is hard for me to speak to warmth, because I use bootheaters in my alpine boots. But, I stay pretty darn warm in Tele and AT boots (again, lots of blood flow, so that could be it). In all, a no bells and whistles great sock.

I have had my split roller since 2001 when I first took it to Alaska. It continues to go strong to this day. The dual comapartments provide ample room for all your stuff - and the separation allows you to put wet stuff in one side if you are packing up at the end of a ski/windsurfing trip and then hopping a plane. I don't mean to say it has a neoprene compartment though - there is just good separate spaces. The rollers were a big deal 8 years ago, pretty standard now, but the wheels have held up great. Like many of my DaKine products, this will last a long, long time.

I am addicted to these DeFeet socks - thin and light, they are my everyday choice all summer for biking, hiking and golf - light on the padding - if you need more padding look elsewhere.

We got these for my niece in the 67 - she loved them, and they got her through 2 seasons. A great first choice!

Scott has always been the gold standard and this is no exception. With a little care they will last you many, many years.

When they say light, they mean it - this is featherweight compared to alpine and even many teleboots. It was easy to dial in the fit, and skis pretty well, considering the lack of beef. If the snow is good, you don't enough know it is a light AT boot - if things are manky, you definitely need to work to stay forward. All in all a good choice for AT.

I have skied the Legend Pro since its inception and it has always been just an amazing ski. Now that they have widened the ski, it is an even better choice. It is definitely a race layup, and you need to be on your game - but if you are this ski delivers. You can ski fast in open bowls, and on groomers, but it also can be handled in tight trees. The 184 is all most skiers need, the 190 can become a handful. Great ski among a lot of great ski choices.

The avalung is one more tool in the quiver that begins with solid backcountry education. This product is great as a stand alone, but I like have also purchased the integrated pack b/c this gets to be a pain when you are taking gear on and off in the backcountry. One more thing to deal with, bit of course worth the hassle if this is what you have. However,this is perfect for heli skiing where you have to have a smaller pack or take turns carrying the pack.

Our daughter seems to love these glasses, they have worked well from age 5 months to about a year. Just recently, as she hit the year mark, she has begun to fling things off - I don't think this is the glasses fault! They have held up great, and will make it another year I am sure.

My 4 year old niece (big for her age) loves these boots. No whining on the fit, and she loves the color! (That may be the most important factor - but it gets her out). She lives in and skis Telluride, so they work for an aggressive little skier. Great good little girl ripper boot.

Hard to believe I would ever get excited about a diaper bag. But, as a part time Mr. Mom, I have found this thing to be great. Nice camo in that it looks like a messenger bag (and will be one someday), but I love the pockets and well designed feature. I love the changing pad. When I am fumbling to get that poopy diaper changed in public, everything is easily at hand. You won't go wrong with this. and it will work as a carry on etc long after diaper days are done.

This is a great no fuss, no problem pack. Easy to adjust, seemingly comfortable for the kid and the sunshade works great. Work well for both my wife and I. Good choice for hiking families.

I now understand my wife's shoe obsession. Sidi has created a beautiful, stylish and functional shoe. Out of the box, these are pleasing to the eye and the fit is just as nice. The heel adjustment is a great new feature and I am not sure if there is a stiffer shoe out there (or if you would want one). The insole is the weak link - wafer thin with no support - throw in your own and you have an even better shoe. The adjustment buckle on the Ergo 2 is a great feature, but this shoe presents no potential technical glitches with no real compromises on comfort or performance. The price is high, but if you ride a lot and appreciate quality and style, choose a high end Sidi.

Fischer has the powder/all mountain ski thing pretty figured out these days. For years this was a fringe brand, better known for their race skis. Not anymore. Somebody at the company has really put some time into the powder, all mountain category. This is a good choice for somebody who wants a true all mountain ski. If needed this will rip groomers and also work on the biggest powder days and in crud. But it is also nimble and quick enough to ski tight trees. If you live in the west, this might work as your only ski. In the east, if you don't mind the width on the groomers, it will work as the solo ski, but you probably want a race board as a back up. Strong ski for strong skiers.

Season after season, I love this lid! Right combo of warmth and light weight, nice little band on the inside when you get sweaty. This is a nice choice.

Arcteryx has so many choices it is tough to differentiate between models after a while, but if you are a hard shell person, this is a great option. The high collar with the soft lining is the ditinquishing feature on this jacket. The high, protective is not surprising as it was developed with CMH heli guides who get snow blown in their face all day - skiing and loading (poor guys and gals). Otherwise it is your standard high end Gore Tex Pro shell, which says a lot. It works well in resort with proper layering, but is a great touring shell as it is tough and light weight. The side pockets are big enough for a folded skin each, but I still stuff them in my bib or my pack depending on what run it is. The number of pockets is an improvement. But, the model CMH sells, gives away has 3 more pockets, and that would this great jacket even better. So, if you want that, either pay CMH's confiscatory gear prices, or ski a million vertical feet. As I have said before, I don't think anyone at Arcteryx skis with wallets or keys! This jacket will keep you warm and dry for years to come.

Lots of bar options, but I keep coming back to the old faithful Clif Bar. I really like the choc chip or choc chip peanut crunch - kind of like cocolate bars, but good for you. The nice thing is that they stay fairly pliable when you are exercising outdoors in the winter, but they do not goo up in the summer. Great choice for working out or a quick snack.

Volkl has finally given women a fat ski that is wider than 94 underfoot. I know a number of women who had the opportunity to test these skis last season, and this ski was at or near the top of the list as their favorite fat ski. By report, it skis similarly to the male Gotama (no surprise given the platform), but a whisper lighter. So, if you need more reviews the men's Gotama reviews will likely help. I am admittedly passing along 2d hand information on this particular ski - but nobody who skied it did anything but rave. I have also skied the Gotama since 03, and given the that knowledge and field reports, the Kiku gets 5 stars. I have put my money where my mouth is though - I bought my wife a pair as her new fattie. Mounted with the new Marker Baron, these will be great in resort and out.

This is just a great all around ski that will satisfy the needs of most expert skiers. Its primary strength is the ability to simply and effortlessly rail turns - but you must have the skills to really carve or you will get bucked around. As with many wider waist all mountain skis, you might encounter skidding on truly steep, icy conditions - think the upper pitch on Liftline at Stowe when you can see your reflection in the ice. But, if that is primarily what you ski, you need a Tigershark or a pure race ski. As far as powder goes, these will work great in all conditions, but are best sub 10 inches and in the crud. If you bring these skis out west and are lucky enough to get a 20 plus inch dump - rent something fatter. All in all though, these skis deserve all the accolades they get in the media.

I started touring on a tele setup and did not understand what people meant when they talked about the tip dive, lost energy thing with tele bindings. Then I got an AT setup and it all became clear - yes, much more efficient. So, when I decided to get back into tele, friends said they were a must. Much better in the touring mode, and they ski great. I guess I join the chorus of positive reviewers.

I am hooked on this stuff. This is the perfect alternative to sugary sports drinks. It works great and I really like the fact that you can replace sodium and electrolytes easily without adding a lot of calories. Perfect for shorter intense summer workouts where you lose the sodium, but might not have burned a ton of calories. Don't take up much space which is nice for long rides, just toss the tube in your jersey.

I am another convert to Bib shorts, learning slowly but surely the benefits. A friend of mine who does not bike says it is just a lot of work to take your ass for a ride! Well, these take care of your ass. I am a fan of the PI chamois. I always wear an undershirt when I ride, so I suppose the complaints about the bib straps could have some validity. It appears you can spend a lot more money, but these certainly are a good choice.

There are Lange skiers and then there is everybody else. Actually, that is a little harsh because you do have to have a Lange foot to really love these. They are a little better for the low volume foot, and if that is you then consider these. The transfer from foot to ski is instantaneous - skiability is just not an issue, this is real skier's boot. Surprisingly, these fit well right out of the box - no guarantee there, but if that is the case for you, this is a nice plus.

One of the guys who started Backcountry.com insisted I buy this piece of gear 6 seasons ago - I have no regrets. This is the perfect jacket for about anything - a ski layer, a fall hike, a bike ride, and it is perfect for the golf course. It is easy to stuff in your backcountry pack, or your carry-on. Buy it and be happy with it for years to come.

I love these for skiing in resort - as a heavy sweater the half zip is not enough on a long tour, but is perfect in resort. I also really like that they are slightly heavier and a little warmer than some of the other Arcteryx bib options. And, as with all Arcteryx products, you will stay dry and warm through even the deepest, wettest day. If you ski powder, you have to go with a bib and you will be stoked with this choice. I have had a tiny bit of shredding on the edge guards, but that is after 4 seasons - not a major issue.

These feel rock solid when you step into them, and the wider platform is noticeable as the ski gets fatter. It took Marker awhile to get away from the M14 platform, but it was worth the wait. The test of any binding is when you don't really notice it is there - I made it all last season with no issues at all. This is the freeride binder.

If you are looking for the ultralight setup or a Dynafit person, this is not your binding. But, for most these are the perfect all in one binding. I use them on a Mantra and they are great for touring, but you give up nothing in resort. Unlike a Freeride where you feel high and wobbly, this instills complete confidence on the way down. It is easy to kick off skins with other setups, so losing that ability will cost you a few minutes in the transition (having to take the ski off), but the run down is so much better. If they are a heavier binding - well think of it as a better workout!

You cannot really miss with this jacket - stuff it, abuse it, toss it - it still keeps you warm, in town or in the backcountry. Great jacket.

I have been lucky enough to ride this in perfect untracked powder in BC while Heli boarding. It is a dream - totally slashy in the trees, stable in the high speed open bowls and NO leg burn. I am always amazed when I get back on a "regular" board how different it is. Cannot speak to all around use, but I don't think you would buy it for that. If you can afford a dedicated powder board, this is it.

I have had these 7 seasons - they just will not quit, and that is a good thing. I sent them back to Arcteryx and they fixed the gators for free when they got beat up. Great for touring with the full side zip and the 2 way fly makes cold weather peeing a breeze!

I love these pants - comfy - I wear these more than jeans.

I finally gave in and tried these storied skis in BC last winter. On about the third turn I was sold on the whole reverse camber idea. The Pontoon is a powder machine, and the BC.com description above is not hype. I did not ski the Pontoon in anything but untracked powder, so pay attention to the other reviews that talk about crud, groomers etc. But, if you have the luxury of owning a pair of pure powder skis, this, or the Volkl Kuro, is clearly a great choice.

Okay, there is no doubt this is a pricey jacket, but it is worth every penny if you want to be warm, comfy and DRY either skiing powder at Alta or fishing in Northern Ontario in the pouring rain. I am dry as a bone after both activities. The other great thing about this jacket is all the pockets - cleverly placed and highly functional. This Jacket works in any season with proper layering, and is well thought out, The North Face obviously did some "free thinking" in designing this jacket!

I have the Fuse and the Phenom Smith goggles. The fit is great, but the most important feature is the fact that they don't fog. There is a nice variety of lens options as well. They work well with a hat or helmet and the strap extender is a nice feature if you use a helmet.