Reviews by User: Gee Alsenz (83)

I had a piece of the sole delam after a few weeks of intensive use. Otherwise the shoe is holding up. Specifically used it as my approach and aiding shoe when bolting and cleaning new routes in VT. After the initial delam of a part of the sole/"grip" traction thingy, the shoe has held together.

Buddy let me swap my T2X for his Seekers for a tour in the Crazy Mtns. Overall, the seeker is intended to be a touring but on-piste capable boot. I was not impressed by the low cuff, and the boa-lacing wire system on the liner didn't work very well for me. Sizing is pretty much the same as Scarpa's mondos, so have confidence there. Specifically I did not feel the bellows flexed stiff enough compared to the T2X. I think this boot is ok for the avg BC-oriented individual, but I will be sticking with the T2X.

These frayed over the course of 50+ BC use in VT. The little fibers unraveled & screwed with my pants hem, and would tear your fingers if I fiddled bare-handed. SOLUTION: use 5mm p-cord for climbing; just tie yourself a big loop, run it trhough your binding hole with an overhand bight knot and then throw the loop onto/around your toe buckle. Never had any issues with p-cord cutting my pants or fingers, nor with its tensile strength or durability.

These can do whatever you want. Mank, pow, deep, icy, bumps, coloiurs...it doesn't matter. A bit heavy, but jeez they are a great all-around twin-tip. I wouldn't recommend trying to tour with these unless you have super-human endurance and wicked-strong hip-flexors. Like Cody said, these are mad stiff, so know what you are buying. I put a pair of old Rainey Hammerheads on em and was very happy on-piste.

It ain't flashy, but it certainly gets the job done. Bought this guy a while back and probably used it over 50x before seeing wear. This is what I grab for trad at the gunks (crazy roof edges = like 10.5mm) and for taking out newbies you hang and fall a ton. Recommend it for your beater rope or for taking out your new girl/boyfriend who's learning to climb.

My first boot was the T1 bumblebee, which with three buckles and (seemingly)lead in the footbed skied big skis fine, but killed me on tours. I upgraded to the T-Race, but hated sidecountry tours with it, but again wanted to keep the stiffness and support. Last year bought the T2X. It rips. It is my go-to-boot now, and I can honestly say my skiing does not suffer no matter whether I am skiing icy moguls, steep couloirs, pow meadows, or touring up alpine valleys. This boot keeps the weight down while giving you great support on the shins due to the powerstrap and higher cuff. The new locking mechanism for the heel really helps suck my foot in place too, and of course the walk lever is invaluable for long bootpacks. I highly recommend buying a pair of the T2x if you are an advanced tele skier who is sick of heavy boots, but wants to keep the stiffness of the old T1s.

This is my designated ski and mountaineering jacket. Sure, there are more expensive, completely Gore-tex'd out apparell. But for the money this jacket delivers. I really like the pit zips; i can use em even with mittens on skiing. The detachable hood is great, plus it fits over random headgear fine. Yes it is not 100% waterproof, but if you use the NixWax tech wash and waterproofing system the jacket repells everything. I wear the medium which is a tad short for me, although I am 6'2 and 185. The large gets too much width with the extra length so I stayed with the medium. Lanky guys you will like how the sleeves are long enugh to fit over your gloves even when your arms are above your head.

I'm writing a second review to echo sentiment expressed by Brokdown in his review. Namely, that his 01s ripped out of his Mantras. My 01s ripped out of my Armada ANTs, much to my dismay. The topsheet fully split and delammed, and all the epoxy in the world didn't help. I am now paranoid that the 01 will rip outta whatever I mount it on. For example, I would love to put it on my Praxis pow skis, but am worried that the wood core construction won't handle the torque generated by the 01 and the seemingly week mounting points. Anyone else have thoughts?

Easy application, efficient wax. No complaints. Basic and the price is right.

Demoed these thinking I might buy a pair to supplement my Havocs. Like Alex said, the Zealot doesn't like small turns. As a tele-skier this was the first and most noticeable issue I have. They respond well in varied conditions and snow-type, and I enjoy the stiffness, but jeez I couldn't get these things to turn quickly in trees or hitting bumps. If you are all about big lines and steeps without turns, these could be for you.

Serves as emergency cord in climbing, string around the house, and leashes on my skis. Always useful for something.

This model has been in some form or another from Panaracer for over 10 years. It excells in muddy conditions. Period. PA has some of the muddiest and most technical single-track for hardtail I've ever ridden. This tire performs great on the variable surfaces I ride on, plus does decent on climbing slippery roots and gravel. If you are a dirt-king and constantly fighting to keep your tires clear of mud and debris on the trail, give these tried-and-true offerings from Panaracer a chance.

Perfect for my Subaru Outback. Easy to install, like the locking function, and oh-so-easy to move around on factory racks. Never experienced a problem.

They're more expensive pieces out there, but this one has never failed me. It compacts and extends without kinks, and stores very neatly in my pack for easy access. No complaints from me or my wallet.

My designated running and trail sock. Great wicking, all-day comfort, and good job on antimicrobial properties of the wool. Fit is true to size. If you sweat a ton, stop wasting your money on other brands; man (or woman) up and buy the quality. You won't regret it.

My designated abuse biners. If I take friends out for a little TR, these are the best. Strong, easy to use with a single cold or dirty hand, and long-lasting.

Cap 3 is perfect for keeping me warm, but not overheated. These are used for my ski tours, resort days, and cold weather climbing and hiking adventures. I'm 6'2 185 and wear a medium, which is frankly too short on the legs, but it doesn't matter with ski socks...

Like another review said, If I had this 10 years ago I wouldn't have a bin full of antiquated and worthless baselayers. The R1 is simply the best. I use it for skiing, hiking, climbing, lounging - the list goes on. It works great as the next-to-skin layer and does not disappoint with superior wicking and insulation properties. The hood is clutch for cold conditions climbing and skiing. Not exaggerating when I say this is my favorite layer for cold weather activities. I'm lanky at 6'2 185 and wear a medium. No problemas aqui - worth every penny.

Most importantly the taco-design means i can carry crap inside and it won't fall out. awesome. Secondly, the shoulder straps actually dont pinch my shoulders on long hikes. Third, it absorbs impacts very well without noticeable compaction such as I've experienced with my metolious pads. Fourth, it makes a kick-ass couch when propped against a rock or tree. Fifth, I've slept on it more times than I'd like to admit, and i'll tell youve ive slept in worse motel beds. If you need a one pad for all occasions, this is it.

Bought these for my touring/pow set-up. I was hesitant until I was the last of my friends w/o a fre-pivot and falling behind on the tours. The touring function is great- big difference. My problems are (1) the cartridges need to be re-tightened every day. A pain in the ass. (2) The tour mechanism did not like being left out in the VT cold for a day and needed some elbow grease to work the following day. I've found a solution to the cartridge loosening issue: buy some electrical tape and make a small ring of tape at the base of the cartridge when you've found your clutch setting. Now the cartridge won't loosen. Yes there are probably reasons to not do this but com'on, we all just want to ski not screw with our bindings before a pow day. Interested in buying the new 22 designs free-pivot Hammerhead and test it against the 01.

Responsive. Great power transition. No maintenance. Great durability. Skied the old Rainey models for years, then got the new 22 Designs update. Still great - if you want unmatched power and control, put em on setting four and watch how easily you can crush the gnarliest bump line or control GS turns. Then again, put em on setting 1 or 2 and take quick sidecountry tours thru deep pow. Not a touring set-up in principal, but definitely my favorite tele binding. Looking forward to trying 22 Designs new free-pivot HH model.

This is the only thing that works, 100% of the time, in East Coast woods. Black flies don't get me, chiggers keep away, even the buzzing mosquitos of the valleys in VT. Yes, there's Deet in it. But, when i'm climbing and hiking in the East, nothing else keeps the bugs away.

I loved these on alpine, so I bought the 07/08s and mounted a pair of BD 01s. 7 days in I tore one binding off and delammed an 8" slash. Epoxy didnt work so I sent em back to CA and am hoping Armada honors the warranty. Never saw anything saying you can't ride em tele...Otherswise the ski rips. A great charging ski, but def likes a little snow or mank underfoot, not so much groomers. I think the delam occured because Armada uses a lighter (and thus weaker) wood core for the ANT. If they give me a new pair I'll still mount em tele again and give it another shot.

Bought these off a guy cheap @ the gym. Turns out they are great even though I normally dont buy evolv. I esp like the toe patch and tight heel for bouldering. At the same time these did great for me on the slippery worn rock @ Rumney re: sport and the random trad routes. Big fan.

Finally got on a pair of these. TOured up Paradise mtn outside chico couple weeks back. Light enough for touring but still maintains reasonable stiffness and stability at speeds. As many already know, these ski like...surprise...Karhus Storm. 100 underfoot is a great fit for my needs and mixed on-off piste adventures. Buy em - won't be disappointed

Durable. time-tested. great range & weight. easy one-hand usage. if you can, buy the best.

Finally got on a pr of these after looking at em for seasons. You first notice the lightness, then you wonder if it will hold speed. No worries; it does. And it turns easily and yet maintains stability over a variety of surfaces. I had great turns through 8" powder, 3-4" mank, and on dusted groomers. Wish Voile made a 190.

Very forward-leaning. Yes, you can adjust it, but know it is an agressive downhill stance, and walking or bootpacking in them is interesting. Also, the fit of the Raptor is true to size, so if you downsize your shell be careful; my instep gets crunched hard. Overall a great boot for race-inspired skiing and turns, on powder, mank or groomers.

Good fit immediately. Kept me warm, but I wish the glove breathed a bit more. These are great for the shorter cuff; i hate over-the-jacket gloves. So far so good this season.

the fit is incredible. But they do not stand up to abuse. Seams on the right glove have frayed increasingly, and the palm doesn't stand up to the abuse of carrying skis with sharp edges over time. Also, they are not the best choice for days under 10 deg F. A good glove for the weekend warrior/on-piste all-around glove.

I habitually travel to Latin America for surf trips which inevitably involve me in the backwoods/beach camping, and this baby is always with me. I take the pills from the doc, but never trust the water supplies down there. This guy puts my conscience and intestines at ease.

Leki has a great selection of poles, but I've never been disapointed with their base-line offering in the trail trekker. Simple extension, beefy aluminum/alloys, and the replaceable tips means a set lasts you a long time. A+

Good looking, actual performance in the sun is reasonable. FYI I have a sz XL (59-62) head and the frames pinch a bit alongside my ears and temple. Other than that, slick.

So small and light I often forget it's in my pack. Love this thing when I'm finishing a climb at dusk and have to scramble down class 4 terrain to the car at dusk/dark. Light, bright, in a word, tight.

Very durable construction. Wicks and vents my feet. Super comfortable. Very warm. Use em for all types of outdoor winter activities. A+

Wicks sweat. Cushions my shins from full-day abuse. Feels great on the feet. Doesn't slough or fall down your leg. A+

Better than the hooded version, if possible. Great baselayer for cold activities. My lady gave me one two years ago and I buy em full-rice willingly now. Great quality, superior wicking and heat retention, great fit. So versatile, and totally worth it.

Keeps me vented and wicks well. The length is good for trails too; not a racing design at all.

Replaced my baskets on the BD carbon flick-lock poles. Tree skiing tends to take a toll on your poles in the East...Functionally I have no problems with these. Alot of discussion about what baskets are "best," but I can only say these are strong, work in varied snow, and don't fall of the poles. Which is all that matters to me in the end.

The perfect baselayer for 15-40 deg weather. Add a vest and some sort of windblocker or shell and I am toasty. Good wicking properties, good heat retention and decent antimicrobial, although if smells are your big issue, then maybe the patagucci wool is your bag.

Got this on my old ski team. Phenomenal for those cold mtn days and biting winds. It insulates better than my patagucci down jacket, and doesn't have moisture issues b/c of the synthetic insulation. I've worn it skiing in -20 w/o any problems. I esp lke the removable hood for ease of use. Plus, the jacket tail extends to my rear, keep more of my body warm for long chair lifts. The jacket material is rip-stop, and sheds wet snow and light precip w/o problems. I wouldn't say waterproof, but then again mine is an older model. Summary: warm, functional, wind and water resistant, rip-proof, lots of pockets. A+

I've never "habitated" in the field, but for the random week trips around the continental US this stove performed adequately. It heats well, takes most fuel canisters, and is relatively durable. Biggest gripe is that it doesn't do it for larger groups, and if there is wind get ready to make a windshield unless you don't mind wasting fuel waiting for water to boil. The flame is good unless in harsh winds or weather. As a single/double person stove for ultralight trips, it is awesome.

Bought this system in addition to my Whisperlite. Great for cooking large, quick meals on the trail. It worked so well I bought one for my buddy who was leaving to backpack central America. He used it every day for 8 months, and still has it. If that's not a testament to durability and quality I don't know what is.

Used these for camping trips in Baja and in Maine. Temps do not affect the fuel efficiency like other brands, and never had a problem with leaking or the threads not working with a stove. For the price it's worth a try.

Great lightweight pack. But no support in the shoulder straps (only mesh) and no waist belt for stability. I use this more as a go-to pack for any random task, from groceries at the Coop to hauling bouldering shoes and chalk to the gym. pros: light, collapsable, neat pockets, durable (so far). Cons: flimsy straps and no support. For the price, it works for me.

My back-up hex set. I've ended up keeping this in the junk-drawer of the house because it is handy to have a set of hexes around. Sure, it weighs a bit and there are slicker looking products out there. But for basic hex usages and random uses, the price is right.

A lot of discussion whether this is an East Coast intended lube. I would say yes. It shed wet soils and trail debris efficiently, but didn't perform nearly so well when I moved to CA for undergrad. I rode this lube primarily in PA/VT, and did consistently clean my chain after long rides because of general issues with mud/grit. I will admit that such consistent cleaning probably helped maintain the chain in suitable condition for this wax-based lube. Summary: if you ride on the torturous, ever-shifting conditions of the East where humidity is king, White-Lightning could be your Queen.

The PD-M540 is shimano's all-mtn clip in pedal. It has worked w/o problems on my hardtail K2 for over 7 years. I do tune the settings depending on the type of riding I am expecting, but those adjustments are easy and quick. The pedal is easy to clean (I used this set-up primarily in the muddy woods of PA & VT) which I love, and it hasn't pre-ejected me in a tight spot. Although there are fancier, lighter-weight stuff out there, the PD-M540 and Egg beaters are still my basics and my favorites.

My hardtail is all XT, the rapidfire shifters being one of my favorite pieces. These work infinitely better mechanically than grip-shift (no jumping, more preceise) and the deisgn appeals to me in its simplicity. XT's durability and low-maintenance was crucial in my decision to put this on my hardtail.

Great styling, and efficient lacing. But that's where my kudos stop. Cons include: (1) Narrow toe box = my toes hurt after technical trail running; (2) shoe runs a full size small (size up); (3) some stitching around the lower toe unraveled quickly after I missed a thread runner (no pun intended). If it feels good on your foot get it; otherwise I recommend going with a traditional trail running company.

Great loading geometry. My hips never chafe, and the back ventilates reasonably well. Enough padding all-around to be comfy, but not excessive. The Gregory pear shape of the pack really helps in terms of settling heavy loads on the back for long hikes. I've even climbed easy trad with it a couple times. As a lanky, oddly built dude I recommend it highly for its comfort, adjustability and durability.

If you like it, use it. It won't fail, but there are enough drawbacks that I recommend against it, or at least recommend a competitor's item. (1) Feeding rope for leads is a pain. (2) Forget about simple rappels. (3) It tends to kink the rope where ATCs do not. I own one, but use my Trango Cinch more often. Choose for yourself, but please don't forget the basics (your ATC).

Everyone loves the lightweight Dyneema these days, always going smaller and smaller. Well, this dude digs sturdy construction and runners that fold nicely after break-in. I try not to buy Spectra anymore, and Dyneema just doesn't have the versatility in the smaller mm sizes. Sterling made these very rugged with reinforced stitching; i use em for trad extended draws and for redundancy in aiding or anchors. Don't be afraid of the weight; the versatility makes up for it.

Light, snappy action, durable. These are used on my mixed racks because of their light weight and ease-of-use with one hand. Simple and efficient.

These are the next generation. Love the ease of use with one hand, plus their light weight is great for sport, trad, or alpine.

Bought a 38 for the rack on my old VW in 01, and it is now still fully functional and still saving me gas money on my current Subaru Outback. Very easy to install and although its mostly plastic, I haven't had any issues with breaks or cracks - not even in the winter. It definitely will save you money; on my Subaru it saves me approx 1-2 mpg without my spacebox up top. When this one goes the way of the buffalo I will buy another, but will make it oversized.

The best box ever. Bought this years ago and had it perform w/o problems ever since. Use it during winters for all the outdoor or dirty gear, from skis to muddy boots. The two latches are easy to operate, even when you can't feel your hands. Similarly, the hinges are sturdy and have never broken or refused to open. Highly recommend for the gear-head or family mobile.

Had the 01 model for 5 years, then had to buy another for my downhill ride. Easy to install on your rack, easy to put the bike up top, easy to lock, and never falls apart. 7 years plus on mine and still going strong.

Bought the oversized 78s years ago for my college mobile: VW Golf. Used em to carry surfboards, bike racks, spacepods, couches, and friends. They're now on my Subaru Outback, and still going strong 7 years later. Sturdy, don't rust, and super compatible with other brands.

Tent stakes are location specific in my mind. Hex heads have exceeded my expectations in the NE; great for grassy knolls, dense soils, root areas, etc. The looser and drier the ground/soil, the less likely these will stay put in a storm.

Easy to store, assemble quickly, and sturdy. Dug a few pits so far, and no problemas. I like the weight savings and how easily it fits into my BD Ascent 30 daypack for skiing and mountaineering.

Basic. Idiot-Proof. Effective. Bought this guy upon moving West. Thanks heavens I've only had to use it once, but it worked, and worked well. What else needs to be said?

So versatile. Literally use em for hiking, running, skiing, and wearing to the office. Unbelievable quality and performance. Never buying another brand based on price.

Use em for climbing and hiking. Like the slightly elastic fit; stretch is great. The chamois waist lining helps the lower back when carrying a bigger load in your pack.

I have to disagree with Richard; i'm 6'2 185, 32/33 and bought a large, which sits a bit loose for my tastes. Then again, I'm lanky. Otherwise this is my hot weather pant for climbing and hiking. This pant was awesome in the muggy NE summers. I'm a big fan of the cargo pocket on the side for random crap and the adjustable nylon belt.

Bought two of em a while back and they're still working, sans problemas, years later. I've used these on night trail runs/hikes, night climbs on local crags, emergency tire-changes in a VT blizzard, and finding my keys in the grass, among other things. Cheap and effective. Why buy something more expensive when the cheaper option works great?

They aren't the largest lockers out there, nor the fanciest, but they perform oh-so-well. Use em for trad and sport racks, and 3 of these go on my alpine set-up because of their versatile size and weight. Never had any problems with the gate or locking screw.

We've all heard the battle b/w function, form, and weight savings on the good ole oval. The rub is that this biner performs for just about every purpose. It is a staple in my trad rack, essential for creating extension systems, and invaluable due to its durability. Heck, my dog's leash is 8mm cordelette and an oval. They won't fail you, but if you are keen on weight savings know you're looking at the heavier end of biners.

A bit clunky for my tastes, but definitely a work-horse without peer. Excels at cracks, jams, and long days on the wall/crag. The toe rand supports well, and toe rubber is great for those pesky toe hooks et al.

Alot of different opinons on the Galileo, not to mention climbing shoes generally. The dirt is this: the Galileo is synthetic, will stretch minimally, is stiff compared to most shoes, excels at steeper terrain, and has a long-lasting rand and sole. I went 70+ days on mine before getting resoled. If you have a low-volume foot this shoe will need to be cranked down on the laces. FYI I am a 13 street and wear these one size smaller. Use em for aggressive trad, sport and bouldering.

BD definitely makes the best skins on the market. I've used this model for my bc tele set-up in VT. Biggest gripes are a) the stiffness means bulky folding under your jacket for the descent; b)the new orange STS seem to get saturated quicker than my old purple skins...I thought it was a fluke of wet pow in VT first season, but then used em in MT and still they get saturated after maybe 2-3 laps on a 45min+ tour. So yes, I would recommend em, but I'm going to try a pr of glidelite next time.

Ordered one of these on sale from the Patagucci website. Turns out it is my go-to vest. Not fancy, no windblocking, but jeez its durable, the zipper still works 2 years later, and its not pilling after intensive wear. Insulates great for all my outdoor activities, but the bold colors work to throw on top of a nice shirt for a cold day at the office. I'm 6'2 185 and lanky - i wear a medium that fits perfectly.

Feels way too neutral, if not weak in transitioning power from your step to your ski. The cartridges also need more maintenance than my girlfriend; I had to constantly play with the settings. Plus, when you are standing still the binding tends to lift up your heel by about a cm or so. Really annoying. I would suggest Voile if you like neutral feeling, and if you want power, go to a Hammerhead.

Perfect sending harness. Definitely not intended for hangs or long belays. The harness also runs true to size, if not a tad small. I'm a 32/33 waist, 6'2 185 and wear a large. I love this baby at Rumney where the crowds are as thick as the flies and the humidity is tangible. Keeps me light and cool with the vented waistbelt and folded nylon loops.

Long-lasting and efficient. Double mouths and teeth provide control. This is my go-to belay device unless rope-soloing or big-wall. Perfect for sport and multi-pitch trad.

Not for support but for protection. Used these pretty much everyday for the past 3 years and no problemas. these work great. Esp if you tele, invest in preventative equipment. You can f*%k with the gods, but not with your knees.

The 08-09 model finally has proven to me that God exists. I've struggled to find a google that will not fog. No ifs, ands, or buts. The IO stops fog. Only trouble I've had is skiing super wet pow days in Alta this Jan when the vents on top got clogged and some fog happened. As soon as I cleaned the top vents and wiped the inside lens, poof! Presto, a perfect, wide-perspective google w/o fog again. Big Fan.

Here's the quick and dirty: great extension, good locking mechanism (might have to tighten with a phillips after intense use), super light, and very durable. I tele ski and hike with these. They've lasted 3 years with normal cosmetic wear on 70+ ski days/year. Only fault: the hand lanyards are starting to unravel after 200+ days. Oh well.

I need more stars. This boot took a loyal Vasque customer and turned him Asolo after my first pair of 520s lasted 4 years of heavy use with NO PROBLEMS. The leather is still in great shape (yes, I do clean and use NixWax regularly) and the shank, footbed, and sole have not suffered undue wear. The reinforced toe is crucial when you end up using these to do some random house construction in addition to the normal splashing through mud and grit on trails on mtns. I've used these on trails from Big Sur CA, to Moab UT, to Pike's Peak, CO, to the Long Trail, VT and have never been disappointed. One suggestion: replace the laces with parachute cord immediately - far more durable and won't soak moisture.

Others may disagree, but I have a 4-5 yr old model, and a 1-2 yr old model, and they perform great. I am sold on synthetic insulation after a couple rafting trips, and was surprised to find that the jacket works great for warmer ski days solo w/o a shell. Cuts the wind, decent water repellancy if treated, and I have little problems with tears, even on climbing trips. Oh, and the lightness/packability factor is key for packing it on BC ski trips.

Great insulator for skiing, hiking, climbing, running. I wish the neck was a bit smaller, but with a wicking tee underneath I am fine. The large fits me best; I'm 6'2 185.

A must-have for anyone who uses leather items outdoors. I use it on my Asolo TPS 520s, and it saved my butt when I hiked the Long Trail in VT (wet and steamy). It is also priceless for all leather gloves. A tip for application: spread it on with your fingers, forget about the mess factor, and make sure to get into the seams. If you're working on gloves, turn on your oven and bake the gloves @ 200F for 1 min per side. Let em dry overnight and repeat. Guess what? You've just turned a pair of insulated work gloves @ $15/pr into a $150 waterproof pr of Hestra ski gloves sans brand name. Nicely done sir.

Not an all-mtn ski. The Hombre definitely skis best when at medium-high speeds. Turn initiation at slow speeds is tough, and the trees became a nightmare instead of a pleasure. Also, going down 15' or less wide chutes became a bit dicey when you have to hop-turn cause the ski aint nimble. Not my favorite, but maybe its yours...