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Reviews by User: Kim Havell (54)

 
Salomon Gun Ski    Read other reviews of this product
 
Light & Sturdy Ski   10-07-08   

The Gun is a great all round alpine/backcountry ski. A mid-fat ski that is light enough to tour with but also sturdy enough to do some serious skiing. It has high performance in powder, is reasonable to set on edge, has excellent absorption, but is a bit light to sustain radically high speeds. Excellent versatility on the mountain and can handle bumps, crud, ice, and powder to varying levels of expertise. The twin tip is not always so handy in the backcountry elements but if that's how you roll, you may enjoy that aspect for your tricks. It is a smooth, sturdy, dependable ski that is great for an advanced to expert skier. It may be a little light for the big boys..


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Salomon Scarlet Ski Boot - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Scarlet Scores!!   10-17-08   

This is the best ski boot I have ever used. The Scarlet is high performance, and is stiff enough for extremely aggressive skiers but also light enough that you barely can tell it's there. Finally a woman's product that does not sacrifice strength for fit. The boot is extremely comfortable and hugs the calf perfectly, and is also very precision oriented. I use this boot in bumps, carving, powder and backcountry and it is great for long days on the hill. Coming from a racing background but loving the powder, I prefer a stiffer/stronger (performance) boot- the Scarlet gives you the performance yet feels like a more cozy, casual ski boot- the best of both worlds. It takes a short time to break-in as opposed to many other boots that take a good week to fit to your form & foot. Recommend this for intermediate to expert women.


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The North Face Fembot Jacket - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Fashionable & Functional Fembot   12-04-08   

The Fembot is a great resort jacket. It is warm, comfortable and very stylish. With a generous cut at the hips, nice added insulation, and a great hood, this jacket offers a high level of comfort on the slopes. I wear a medium (5'8), and love the bittersweet brown color. It has some sassy features with metallic closures that adhere like magnets, great pockets and a nice high neck cut to block the wind and other elements. Most notable features include that generous hip cut- so the jacket doesn't bulk up when you sit, a built in Recco system- which provides that just-in-case added protection on the ski area, a goggle cloth, powder skirt, and great fashionable design inside and out. For resort skiing/heli-skiing, this jacket will keep you well protected, warm, and looking good.


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Cloudveil Down Patrol Jacket - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
For a great Down time   10-08-08   

One of the best winter jackets you can own for very cold days. The down patrol provides the utmost in comfort and warmth. The hood is great for windy, cold days and is easily removed. For sizing, I am 5'7+ and wear a medium- which fits great for light layers & sweaters underneath. The jacket, for me, is too warm and a bit bulky to ski agressively with but if you go a size smaller it may suit you perfectly on the slopes. It keeps you extremely warm and cozy, and protects from the negative temps extremely well. And, the cut is feminine so it hugs your contours appropriately. It is does not pack small, so it is a better front-country/ski area item then for the backcountry.


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The North Face Heathen Jacket - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Heathen Has it ALL   11-29-08   

This is one of the best all-around shells on the market. This jacket covers it all- it is extremely light weight and packable, excellent gortex material that shields you from all the elements completely, great pit zips and 2 big pocket zips, and a well designed hood to protect from wind & snow etc. The surf blue color is really bright and quite fun. The female cut on the jacket is excellent, leaving room for layering underneath as well as some stretch for movement. This is a great shell for touring, climbing, running, and even skiing on the area. Extremely versatile and aggressive jacket that will give you your money's worth.


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Backcountry.com Luft 800 Down Sweater - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Down That Moves   12-06-08   

The perfect down jacket & layer for a woman on the move. Awesome feminine cut and love the guacomole color, bright and smooth zippers, inner upper pocket,2 zip hand pockets, great stitching and light shell material, and extremely warm. It is true to size so does not fit a lot of extra underneath but functions well as a very warm outer layer and/or under a shell. This jacket functions very much as a "sweater" and gives you all the bang for your buck while serving many needs. Great for skiing, hiking, climbing, and very packable as a back-up layer. A great versatile product for your outdoor clothing arsenal. I'm 5'8 and wear a medium.


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The North Face XTC Lightweight Tight - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Performance Long Underwear   11-29-08   

The XTC tights are lightweight long underwear that provide a great deal of warmth as well as moisture wicking to keep you warm and dry in any activity. These are a perfect versatile layer for ski touring, spring skiing, and climbing, and have good breathability and flow with movement- you barely notice they're there. I have the cloud white color which is light on the outside and a darker grey on the inside, which is a smart color design for sweat etc. These have a nice slightly loose fit with a comfortable waist band and good tapering for the calfs. There is good stretch to these so you can adjust the height for ski boots, climbing boots etc. I am 5'8 and wear a medium.


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Backcountry.com Cocona Ski Sock - 2 Pair    This product is no longer available
 
Smooth Socks   12-15-08   

A great light ski sock for those that enjoy a closer fit. These are a thin product, with no extra frills, with good resistance to washing and maintain color and and sizing. Covering the entire calf, they insulate well and keep their stretch. Work well several days in a row due to great odor resistance and quick drying.


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The North Face 2-Meter Dome Tent 8-Person 4-Season    This product is no longer available
 
An Expedition Expert Tent   10-17-08   

This tent stood up to the test on the Baltoro Glacier in Pakistan at 16,300ft this past summer. Phenomenal tent for base camp that is easy to assemble with a group of four plus folks, and resilient to all the elements. Great windows & double door protection (with fly), along with several pockets/sleeves for storing gear. Good floor that is very strong and withstands climbers' abusive tred. Shape allows for easy snow shedding and size is perfect for hanging out. We fit eight plus folks and extra gear and communications in this tent comfortably. The tent had no issue with hot to cold, and ventilates very well with the 2 doors & 2 windows unzipped. This tent is not wanting in any way, and the designers have covered everything you need in this product.


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Backcountry Access Tracker DTS Freeride Package    This product is no longer available
 
Beacon of Choice   10-07-08   

The Tracker is one of the best beacon options on the market today. Unless you are practicing beacon searches on a daily basis (i.e. ski patrol), this is the product you want for andy and all of your winter backcountry adventures. The digital display and direction lights are extremely intuitive, and in a highly pressured situation, you won't be wasting extra time in evaluating your beacon's responses. It is fast and easy to get in and out of search mode, and teaching yourself the basics on this one is about as straight-forward as it gets. A beacon that is truly idiot-proof. The beacon's range is slightly less then that of other brands but if you are following proper avi protocol, that should not be an issue- with point last seen etc.


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Salomon XT Wings Trail Running Shoe - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Stands up to the Test   10-07-08   

This is the best trail running shoe that I have ever used. It stands up to the tests of both mileage and time. A quality shoe that is well made. It is a light trail shoe but yet sturdy enough to handle tougher terrain. This is the most versatile running shoe that I've used for anything from the Imogene Pass Run to the Maroon Bells Traverse to tough climbing approaches and search and rescue missions. It's got excellent tread, great absorbtion, and a stable platform. Plus, it's a nice, sleeker looking running/trail shoe. Versatility is one of it's best assets. I have put in my own footbed (see SOLE or SUPERFEET) and that makes it all the more suited and longer lasting for personal use.


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The North Face Destiny Down Jacket - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
This is your destiny   01-29-09   

What a truly amazing cold weather jacket. I am 5'8 and a size 6/medium and this fit me perfectly. The jacket provides amazing insulation against wind, light snow, and cold. The inner arm cuffs & powder skirt protect against snow, the soft collar is great for zipping up around the face, and the lightness of the jacket make it extremely maneuverable. To be kept warm AND have great movement in a jacket is a tough combination to find. This is now my go-to jacket for colder days. I love the greenhouse green color (it's bright) and the cut and stitching- very flattering and comfortable for women. There are great pocket placements and a small goggle wipe in the lower side pocket, which can be handy. Versatile in use for on and off the hill..great for downtown- walking about town etc.


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Black Diamond Moxie Headlamp    This product is no longer available
 
Flower Power   10-10-08   

Fantastic all-around headlamp. Reasonable weight and extremely reliable. Ultra cute design for women. Used this headlamp for summit day on Gasherbrum II at 12am in dumping snowfall, and had no problems with the cold/batteries etc. Great range of vision as well in the pitch dark and precipitation. Also carry this as part of my ready pack for search & rescue and for climbing long routes (as back-up). Love the flip attributes of the lamp itself, easy to adjust, and variation on type of lighting, along with a blinking flash component.


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Black Diamond Fritschi Diamir Freeride Plus Binding    This product is no longer available
 
Excellent All Around Binding   10-07-08   

These are an extremely reliable, dependable strong binding. I have used these in the bumps on the resort to high speed runs in powder to small hucks to icy couloirs in the backcountry to variable conditions on an 8000 meter peak, and they withstood the tests of all- never once came out of them. As a female, 5'7, and 135lbs, these bindings are plenty strong enough to withstand any ski activity. They are light weight, easy on/off, and have an excellent riser system that is easy to adjust while on the move in the backcountry. Highly recommended for anyone skiing in varying terrain in both the front country and backcountry.


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The North Face Thunder Down Jacket - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
A Down Must-Have   02-02-09   

This is a phenomenal down jacket- it is extremely light weight, packs very small, but is also incredibly warm. I am 5'8/size 6 and wear a medium. The Thunder is a must have for the outdoor clothing arsenal/back-up layer for your pack. It provides good protection against the wind, and when temperatures get chilly it is an easy layer and light piece to throw on. I wore this out the house this am to go ski-touring in 5 degree weather, and then put it back on at 13,000ft in a biting cold wind to ski back down. It functioned perfectly, and allows for great movement and flexibility. Reliable warmth and well cut for women, I also like the stitching and pocket placements. This is a fantastic go-to jacket for outdoor women and versatile for all kinds of activities. The weight to warmth ratio is it's biggest selling point..


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The North Face XTC Midweight Tight - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Midweight Performance   01-30-09   

These are great mid-weight performance long underwear. I am 5'8 and a women's medium and these fit true to size. They are cut to be roomier in the thigh, and tighter in the calf area. Again from TNF is a tight that barely feels like it's there (light & durable) but provides great warmth and excellent movement. I wear these under gortex shell pants down to about 5-10 degrees and they work great. The waist band is great- thin and smooth band that is not constricting but does the job in hugging your contours. The product is very odor resistant and can withstand the use of a couple days wear in a row. Definitely recommend these as a good all around base layer.


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Backcountry.com Stoic eVent Shell - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Sweet Shell   11-04-08   

Just tested this shell on a mixed condition day on the South Ridge of Superior and it was awesome. It is lightweight with great maneuverability, and offers excellent protection against the elements. The cut is great for women, and it has great pocket placement and thoughtful accents- like cuffs and hood. It stuffs light and small, and would be perfect for a variety of outdoor activities from a rain storm, to windy day, to a touring layer, and light ski spring ski or climbing jacket. Highly recommend this product- was really impressed with its performance, protection, and breathability. VERSATILE!


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Backcountry.com Merino Zip T-Neck Shirt - Long-Sleeve - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Versatile Layer- Under or Over   11-04-08   

Excellent layer that works well as a top or only layer, as well as an under layer for skiing, winter running, or ice climbing or other. The zipper is long and allows for a well protected neck area or more breathability when unzipped all the way. The October Grape color is rad- very feminine. It also has a great female cut to it, and love the panels as it off-sets the other fabric. It is a light weight layer but provides more warmth then you would guess for it's thickness. I am 5'7 and medium build- and the medium fits perfectly. Perfect for just about any outdoor activity that requires a versatile layer, or for just hanging out in at home. A must have for your sport clothing arsenal.


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Suunto Vector Altimeter Watch    This product is no longer available
 
Vector Vins it   10-10-08   

Excellent mountaineering watch but often cumbersome for other activities. It is high performance, easy to read and easy to use- if you sit down and read the manual right when you get it. I've used the Vector on several expeditions to the Himalayas and elsewhere, and have owned 2 over the past seven years. They are durable and withstand very cold temperatures and continue to perform at altitude- my latest traveling to 7500 meters. The backing has been improved on the latest model (my main complaint on the last version) and so now it is easy to change batteries even if the cover has been sealed down in use. And, you do have to be sure to recalibrate it whenever possible to ensure accurate readings within 10 meters.


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MSR Reactor Stove    This product is no longer available
 
Great Reaction to the Reactor   10-10-08   

This stove is one of the best out there. We used several of these recently on an expedition to Gasherbrum II in Pakistan, and the stove was light weight, fairly compact (you can put other items inside), and high performance. It is easy to use and fast to boil. We used/tested the stove up to about 24,000ft and it got the job done well without being temperamental to cold or to altitude. With a user friendly system and solid base, it boils more water in a quicker time period and sits balanced in snow and unstable ground. This stove is less susceptible to wind and other elements as well, making it extremely reliable and very efficient.


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Backcountry Access Tracker DTS Beacon    This product is no longer available
 
Beacon of Choice   10-10-08   

The Tracker is one of the best beacon options on the market today. Unless you are practicing beacon searches on a daily basis (i.e. ski patrol), this is the product you want for any and all of your winter backcountry adventures. The digital display and direction lights are extremely intuitive, and in a highly pressured situation, you won't be wasting extra time in evaluating your beacon's responses. It is fast and easy to get in and out of search mode, and teaching yourself the basics on this one is about as straight-forward as it gets. A beacon that is truly idiot-proof. The beacon's range is slightly less then that of other brands but if you are following proper avi protocol, that should not be an issue- with point last seen etc. Batteries last a long time, and straps are easy to use and release.


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The North Face XTC Midweight 1/4 Zip Long Underwear Top - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Perfect Mid-Weight   01-30-09   

This baselayer is an extremely functional and usable top for a lot of different activities. It is not thick and cumbersome in its material, rather it is smooth and seamless so it is extraordinarily nice to use as a layering item and also really comfortable all on it's own; you get great movement and reach. A great feminine cut, and it works well as a top piece as well as a layering piece...to ski/walk/hike/climb in etc. Fashion, function, and form on this one, and the outdoors woman will get a lot of use out of this top. It does keep you nice & warm & insulated, and with the zip neck addition, it makes it easy to cool-off if you need it. Really love this layer..I am 5'8 and a medium.


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The North Face Montana Glove - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Cool Weather Gloves   01-28-09   

These are well designed cold weather gloves. I get very cold extremities so for temps below 15 degrees, I would recommend the inserts. The gloves are nice and easy to maneuver- don't take a lot of time to break-in. There are several great features- wrist cinch, goggle and nose wipes, heat packet pocket, and adjustable wrist straps. I would recommend these as a great all around ski glove. For sizing, for any climbers out there, my hand size is about a #1 (+) camelot and so I got a small.


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The North Face Mammatus Bib - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Move with Mammatus   11-29-08   

The Mammatus bibs are incredible all around mountain performance pants. TNF covered every single detail with these. They are reasonably lightweight, with good stretch for movement, and combine all that with solid gore-tex protection from snow, ice, wind etc to make these extremely high performance versatile ski pants. They have a great drop seat that many other ski/mountain pants tend to lack for women, excellent heighth adjustable sturdy straps, powder boot protectors with interior hooks, good pocket placement, crampon protection patches, and perfectly sized side zips for ventilation if needed. The pants also have a great feminine sleek fit and have a softer, stretch material for the upper bib that allows for chest expansion and upper body movement. These pants can be used absolutely for mountaineering but also for ski touring, ice climbing, and resort skiing as well. I'm 5'8 and wear a women's medium. LOVE them!


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CAMP USA Vector Automatic Crampon    This product is no longer available
 
Crampons that Crush it   10-13-08   

Reliable and strong crampons that are easy on/off and extremely durable in the elements. I used these crampons from Camp 2 to the summit on Ama Dablam, and on Lobuche, and never once had to worry about their precision or performance at technical points. They were stable and responsive in mixed climbing and solid performers in steep snow and ice. An excellent climbing crampon for alpinism beyond a snow slog. The anti-balling plates were key and very effective.


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Chaco Z/1 Unaweep Sandal - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
River Rats Revere These!   10-10-08   

Perfect product for any water/water terrain endeavor. Great tread for scrambling around on hikes and in slot canyons. High performance for recreational water activities with a great synching system and they are fairly light weight. Easy maneuverability and easy on and off. Comfortable foot bed and cushioned well for day hike activities off the water. Personally love the style, and colors, and these are very comfortable all terrain river sandals. The one drawback is the occasional pebble that can lodge in under foot but it is also very easy to get out. Sturdy, comfortable, reliable, strong, with great function.


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CAMP USA X2 400 Backpack - 1220cu in     Read other reviews of this product
 
Bare Minimum   10-10-08   

Good pack for those who need to travel light. It is strong enough to handle a decent load up to about forty pounds and saves the extra weight when you need to move fast. The pack has the bare essentials without the sometimes unnecessary bells and whistles that complicate other products. The pack exterior material is fairly resistant to abrasion and is reliable against the elements. Recently had this on a river trip for day hikes, and it withstood some serious soaking. For hiking and light and fast mountaineering, the pack may not have spots for lots of gadgets or water bottles etc, but it fits everything you may need with a little organization. The mesh pockets are a bit sensitive to rough environments so handle with care.


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Mountainsmith Quickfire Camera Bag    Read other reviews of this product
 
SLR Saver   10-08-08   

A nice novice carrying case for your SLR. I would recommend the size large if you want to carry a flash and several other accessories with the camera. The medium is adequate for a Nikon D40 but does not allow room for too many other accessories. The shoulder strap works well and the bag allows for quick and easy access. Warm grey is good color for a less bold look but yet easier to locate then black. The bag does an excellent job protecting your camera from the elements and from bouncing around during activities.


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Cloudveil Inversion Vest - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Slim Fit & Versatile Layer   10-08-08   

A great vest option for both warmth and fit. It has a sleek cut and is very light and compact for travel/packing. Because it is less bulky, it can fit well both under or over other jackets and layers for balancing out the temps. Yet again a great feminine cut that hugs in where you want it too- keeping you warm without looking like the michelin man. Great layer for aerobic activities in the fall, winter and spring (or cooler summer nights), and as a back-up under layer for very cold days. The vest also handles moisture very well, and repels mild precipitation effectively.


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Cloudveil Rayzar Ski Jacket - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Seasonable Jacket   10-08-08   

A great ski jacket and outer layer for spring and fall. It fits better to form so if this is your main winter ski jacket, you may want to size up. It also makes a great outer layer for being out and about in town due to its sleeker cut and style, and nice bright color options. The jacket does not have a lot of flex in the arms with multiple layers underneath so it wears better with less. It does extremely well blocking the elements and with insulation. The collar is very comfortable in its cut and protects the face well. It's perhaps a bit too warm to tour with due to the polartec fleece lining but suits any other activity quite well or as your outer layer once you're ready to head back down the hill. I'm 5'7 and wear a medium.


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Smith Super Method Sunglasses    Read other reviews of this product
 
Breaking Wind   10-07-08   

These shades are great wind blasters. If you like to ski/move fast in sunglasses, these are a great eye protecter with excellent coverage and strong wrap around frames. They also allow enough room for some breathability so you don't fog up while doing something more aerobic. They are a complete sun blocker so beware of pending racoon eyes but great protection from crows feet. Extremely durable for all types of activities and quite sporty stylish at the same time. I have a smaller/narrower head and the fit is great.


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Smith Anthem Goggle    Read other reviews of this product
 
Superior Goggles   10-07-08   

LOVE these goggles. This is the main goggle I use each season, just interchanging lenses and styles for necessity and fun, respectively. I have a smaller head and these goggle fit my face perfectly. The fit is excellent for a woman and much more feminine and sleek then other brands. The style is slimming and less bulky so that you can focus on your skiing and not on your goggles. I've rarely had issues with these goggles fogging, and the lenses are high performance from flat light to bright sunny days. They are easy, breezy and beautiful. Excellent goggle for women who like to rip but also like to have a good fit.


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Salomon XA Pro 3D Ultra GTX Trail Running Shoe - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Ultra Pro Running Shoe   11-05-08   

Light for a trail shoe, but ultra durable, these shoes can withstand a lot of rough terrain and varying ground but don't weigh you down. They are sturdy enough for peak climbing in Colorado as well for big mountain rocky/snowy approaches, yet agile enough for up and downhill trail running and maneuvering. Offers good breathability and are extremely comfortable with good foot and arch support. The gortex also keeps your feet really warm, and resists snow and water quite well. Excellent winter and cold weather shoe. I wear an 8.5 in shoes and the 8.5 in the Pro fits perfectly.


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Life-Link Guide Ski/Probe Pole    This product is no longer available
 
Sweet Poles   04-07-09   

A reliable, light, versatile pole for backcountry adventures. Made of featherlite carbon, The Guide pole has multiple uses, functioning as an avalanche probe as well as ski pole, and collapsing down for ultimate storage and packability. I really like the telescopic adjustment system, as it is quick and easy. Other +s include a wide, adjustable comfort pole strap and the ultra lite foam wrapped, insulated, absorbing grip. It includes powder & trekking baskets, and in total weighs a mere 17oz per pair. The pole has functioned great for me from big snow days at Silverton Mtn, to bump skiing in Telluride, and is ideal for long backcountry tours.


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The North Face Mammatus Jacket - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Serious Shell   02-23-09   

This is the high performance shell that can withstand all the elements. The perfect outer layer for wind, snow, rain, cold and altitude. Plenty of maneuverability and just the right weight for long moving days. It is a reliable and trustworthy product that stood up to the test for our team on an expedition to GII in Pakistan this summer as well as tough winter days in the backcountry and on the ski mountain in the Telluride area. Plenty of pockets and great pit zips to control temperature as well as for storage of misc items. Good zippers, strong fabric, and well cut hood. The high collar is notable as it is wide enough to not be constricting yet allows for full wind and storm protection. This is a masterful shell for the outdoors person who does it all and in bad conditions.


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Salomon Czar Ski    Read other reviews of this product
 
Sweet Snow Ski   02-20-09   

Love this ski for big turns, lots of powder, and big terrain. These skis ski more specific for me then an all mountain ski but are amazing in performance on a big snow or crud day. I am 5'8 female and have the 174s, which are the perfect fit. The skis allow you to bust through most anything and also fly on top of and off things at higher speeds. They are graceful under pressure, and extremely stable. Took these skis to Silverton & also use them for snow days on and off area in Telluride- they are high performance and leave your legs lasting longer due to their glide and power capabilities. Highly recommend for a quiver for your snowier days. The Czars are stiffer, and a bit heavier/less playful then the Guns, and so ski quite differently but are still very responsive.


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The North Face Momentum Pant - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Momentum for Winter Movement   02-10-09   

These are a warm, thicker pant for stand alone usage. They work great for winter trail runs (would be too warm for the summer), lounging around the house, walking the dog, and general outdoor activities. I am 5'8, size 6 and wear a medium in these pants. Great features include a comfy waistline, nice slightly belled ankles, feminie cut, good stretch, cozy material, and a inner pocket for small items.


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The North Face Momentum Hybrid Jacket - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Magnificent Momentum   01-30-09   

This is a fantastic light weight jacket that works well as an outer layer or under layer..It has such a great feminine cut, great style and feel, and is extremely flattering- sleek and slimming. As a zip jacket, it allows for more freedom in temperature regulation, and functions well with temperature fluctuations. The jacket can work well under ski jackets and over bibs, and for any other activity like running, climbing, yoga, and walking around town. It has nice smooth, cozy material that feels great on the body, providing fashion, form and function. I am a 5'8 with broad shoulders and the medium fits great.


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The North Face Pamir WindStopper Glove - Women's    This product is no longer available
 
Durable, Dexterous & Light Glove   01-29-09   

The Pamir is a great spring glove, as well as good casual wear glove. It offers quite a bit of performance with the external grip enhancements on the thumb, forefinger and index finger. This added tred allows for good grasping instead of the smooth material the whole way round. I have the white, but they do get dirtier- but you can also find them faster amongst the black gloves that many tend to have. These are really comfortable gloves, and easy to maneuver with- you don't have to take them off to zip up, handle keys, or deal with precision tasks. The fleece lining is really soft, and gloves have proved to be durable. The windstopper also blocks really well against the elements. For the climbers out there, I have a #1+ camelot size hand, and ordered a small, which fits perfectly.


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CAMP USA XLH 95 Climbing Harness    Read other reviews of this product
 
Light & Fast Harness   01-18-09   

A great harness for back-up and for use on days with basic, quick rappel needs. I have used this for small raps on ridge traverses i.e. the maroon bells, as well as many ski mountaineering routes in the San Juans, and it worked perfectly. Fast and light to put on and to carry, it is the size of roughly a small apple to pack and is lighter then most cellphones. It is also very reliable and quite durable in the elements. Awesome emergency & necessary piece for your backcountry arsenal.


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La Sportiva Mythos Climbing Shoe - Women's    This product is no longer available
 
Best Versatile Climbing Shoe   11-06-08   

These shoes are ultra comfortable and extremely versatile. I am an 8.5 shoe, and a 40 in the mythos was perfect for me- I don't go for the extra snug feel that some climbers do. I wear these desert crack climbing, on black canyon granite, and Rifle, Penitente etc for sport climbing, and these shoes are perfect. For multi-pitch climbs, they are excellent for the hang time, and with easily replacable laces (from damage in the cracks), they can fit like new. Excellent rubber as well as a great shape for a medium width woman's foot. They are durable and strong, and withstand the elements- like walking around on choss etc. Highly recommend these for the all-around climber.


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La Sportiva Katana Rock Climbing Shoe - Women's    This product is no longer available
 
Sticky but Small   11-04-08   

Just got these shoes and went off sizing recommendations. Found that going one whole size smaller is too much, or else your first few uses will be a bit painful. I would recommend going 1/2 size smaller (depending on how you like your fit). I am an 8-8.5 foot and think the 39 (not 38) would be the best sizing. I do not have a narrow foot and so did not find any issue with the heel being too loose. The rubber is very sticky and shoes are great for precision moves. Love the velcro flaps- makes it easy on/off and holds the fit extremely well. Wear these both crack and sport climbing. Most friends with these, however, prefer the shoes for the sport routes.


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Backcountry.com Gear Slut T-Shirt Short-Sleeve - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Gear Sluttin it up   11-04-08   

A popular t-shirt at the crags for sure. Awesome female cut, good length, good neck collar, great cuffed feminine sleeves, and true to size if you are ok with a more form fitting shirt. At 5'7, medium build, the medium fits just right. I get a lot of compliments on this shirt, and it is a good performer for climbing, running or just hanging out sorting your gear.


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Backcountry.com Cardigan Beanie    Read other reviews of this product
 
Hat with Sass   11-04-08   

A beanie with a lot of flair and great color. It runs bigger so if you have a small head, it may need a couple of runs through the dryer. Great shape, and warm yet breathable due to the knit. The bright sun/ire green holds color and integrity through the wash.


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Adventure Medical S.O.L. Thermal Bivvy Sack    This product is no longer available
 
Backcountry Back-up   10-13-08   

A must have for your backcountry kit. Extremely light and packs tight. A must have for anyone venturing into the wilderness for an adventure. The weight is negligible, and the added safety it provides is beyond comparison. This is a necessary back-up to carry in your pack, along with a headlamp, to give you more of a chance in a dire situation. I never leave home without it- whether ski touring, day hiking, multi-pitch climbing etc.


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Chaco Flip Sandal - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Flip with Finesse   10-08-08   

From a style perspective, I love these flips! Very sleek lines, extremely comfortable footbed, and ultra light weight. But, they also have excellent tred, and are quite grippy on the rock in and out of the water. Even wore these occasionally to boulder around in slot canyons on the Grand Canyon last month and they high performance! They are sturdy yet playful, and very relaxing to unwind in at camp at night. Love the colors and variation in styles, and the shape and cut of the straps are perfect. Often can't wait to put these on after a long day ski touring or hiking and climbing outdoors.


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Petzl Grigri Belay Device    This product is no longer available
 
A Cragging Classic   10-08-08   

A great belay device for cragging. It is heavier for other climbing activities but can also be useful depending on your level of expertise. If you are spending some time belaying, projecting, and/or working routes, this device saves you energy & effort, and makes it very safe and easy for both you and your partner. It's important to practice the piece before usage- lowering a climber on it and belaying a lead climber requires careful technique. Good for specified climbing rope mm only.


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CAMP USA Nano 23 Carabiner    Read other reviews of this product
 
David Vs Goliath   10-08-08   

Awesome biners to add to any rack. I prefer the bronze color as it stands out against the rest of your gear. Easy to clip, sturdy, strong and reliable. Great as an extra biner for just about any activity when you want to keep it light. Grab a few of these to round out and lighten up your rack for any adventure that involves some technical work- mountaineering, canyoneering, trad, sport..etc.


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CAMP USA Jade Climbing Harness - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
CAMP Makes it Light & Comfortable   10-07-08   

CAMP makes some of the best light weight gear in the business. The Jade Harness is no exception and though it is light, it is very comfortable and easy to slide on/off. The padding hits all the right spots, and makes it very comfortable to sit in those unfortunate circumstances when you have to take. I have used the harness for long days in the desert, black canyon, and elsewhere and it takes the wear and tear of crack climbing extremely well. Comfortable in the heat and in the cold, this is a well thought out design with plenty of gear loops and strength to take whatever you have to give it.


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Backcountry.com Wool Hooded Jacket - Women's    Read other reviews of this product
 
Fashion & Function   10-07-08   

This is one of my favorite Backcountry.com products. This jacket is really warm, comfortable and adjusts well with temperature. I've worn it on nights from 15 degrees to 50 degrees and it works really well through that gradient. I LOVE the style. The hoodie is fun, and the jacket has a super stylish female cut to it, which is really flattering. I am about 5'7+, so the length is great, love the subtle green color, and it is durable with great fabric. It goes over layers well and is tailer made for women. A great all round jacket for late fall to early spring, and suitable for milder backcountry outings to dinner downtown. Gotten lots of compliments on this jacket as well- people love the cut.


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CAMP USA Vector Nanotech Crampon    This product is no longer available
 
Trustworthy & Stable   02-10-09   

Reliable and lightweight crampons that offer a high level of performance. I wore these on Ama Dablam several years ago and they were strong, sturdy and precision-oriented. Easy to take on and off, and great for steep snow technical routes to vertical ice. These are trustworthy crampons for technical adventures.


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Black Diamond Traverse Ski Poles    Read other reviews of this product
 
Pole Perfection   10-08-08   

Light weight durable poles that are ideal for the backcountry. Easy & strong fliplock adjustment for use on the fly. Comfortable hand grips, as well as strength in flex, and strong, light pole baskets. Also highly recommend purchasing the whippet attachment for these poles, which has a seamless fit and is a must have addition for any ski mountaineer or off-piste explorer. Have used these poles for a multitude of backcountry adventures, as well as for expedition skiing and they have performed perfectly and saved a considerable amount of weight.


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Black Diamond Ascension Nylon STS Skins    Read other reviews of this product
 
Long lasting..   10-08-08   

These skins can take the abuse..resilient when crossing the occasional rock, branch, or other debris in the field. Excellent adherence to both the snow and ski. Found that they do glide well downhill, and are a pretty tough product all around. I have two sets of these and both have lasted me a couple of years at least, so far. Durable, strong with long lasting stick. For cutting, use a razor blade & use caution, but it works the best. Great attachment system for varying tips and tails.


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Smith Heiress Goggle - Polarized    This product is no longer available
 
Sweet Goggles   12-13-08   

In addition to the Smith Anthems, the Heiress goggles are a great selection for the ladies. I have just started to wear these this season and I love the fit, the color options and lenses. With a lifetime warranty, you can't go wrong. Polarized lenses are great for the slopes and these goggles allow for good peripheral vision along with breathability for anti/fog.


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