Reviews by User: powder_hound (94)

My first day on these was an epic Utah powder day - perfect for seeing what the Auras are capable of! I thought with a fatter ski I would have to muscle through my turns more than normal, but the Volkls make it effortless even in tight trees. They float perfectly through deep powder, but are easily manageable on the groomers & bumps. I went a little shorter on these than my old skis, but they still move! These are just right for the woman who loves powder above all else, but doesn't want to buy another pair of skis for the days in between storms. Plus, they look as cool in person as they do in the picture!

I've been looking for 2 years for a longer down jacket that won't make me look like a marshmallow, has practical features, and is easy to move in. This one is perfect! This jacket gives you at least a bit of a waist, has a great hood that you can pull around your face on cold days, pockets in all the right places, and cute lining in the sleeves. (I just wish they had used this for all of the lining!) It also comes with a double zipper so you can give yourself more room for walking. I think my favorite feature is that it's made 100% out of recycled material. I ordered a small based on the sizing chart, even though I normally wear a medium. It's a perfect fit.

This is the warmest jacket I've owned - whether I wear it to work, skiing, or hiking in the backcountry during winter, it hasn't disappointed me. The fit is very slim, but has enough room for 1-2 light layers underneath. It is not bulky, so it fits easily beneath my hard shell on extremely cold days. The material is more durable than other down jackets I have owned. Despite a few run-ins with tree branches & rocks it is still unscathed. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a down jacket that can serve multiple purposes .

My first day on these was an epic Utah powder day - perfect for seeing what the Auras are capable of! I thought with a fatter ski I would have to muscle through my turns more than normal, but the Volkls make it effortless even in tight trees. They float perfectly through deep powder, but are easily manageable on the groomers & bumps. I went a little shorter on these than my old skis, but they still move! These are just right for the woman who loves powder above all else, but doesn't want to buy another pair of skis for the days in between storms. Plus, they look as cool in person as they do in the picture!

We use this kayak on the coast of NC and it has been great for learning the basics of paddling. Whether you enjoy a calm day of fishing in the sound or a choppy ride on the ocean, this kayak can fit the bill. The design is great for 1 or 2 people and is very comfortable for longer trips. It is fairly lightweight, but definitely requires 2 people for transport. I've been amazed at how it performs on rough days in the ocean, but I have to admit I found out the hard way that it's heavy enough to give a concussion when flipped.

I've used this pack everywhere from Vail to Silverton to the backcountry. I love the ease of use for attaching skis, storing your layers, & even accessing your chapstick. It's extremely comfortable with heavier loads.

The Cargo Tote is a bit deceptive from the outside - at one time I have carried several books, a laptop, cords, my purse, music, and many other extras. I really liked the number of pockets available. Unfortunately, when packed to the brink, this tote isn't the easiest to carry. The straps don't have any padding and it can be a bit awkward. For lighter loads or short walks to work, this is very functional and comfortable.

The Cargo Tote is a bit deceptive from the outside - at one time I have carried several books, a laptop, cords, my purse, music, and many other extras. I really liked the number of pockets available. Unfortunately, when packed to the brink, this tote isn't the easiest to carry. The straps don't have any padding and it can be a bit awkward. For lighter loads or short walks to work, this is very functional and comfortable.

I noticed the other review refer to this as a great "rain jacket". While I'm sure it functions great as a rain jacket - there is SO much more it has to offer. I spent a sub -20 degree windchill, snowy day at 13k feet - winds so bad I could barely stand straight - and while every other part of me was freezing, my core stayed completely warm. The Alpah SV is in my opinion the best you can get for your dollar in the technical shell category. The design is slim fitting, but flexible enough to allow full movement for climbing, skiing, ect. Virtually zero wind gets through this jacket and the hood is large enough to fit over a helmet.

These shoes have proven to be very durable and definitely a good investment. I used them on the Pike’s Peak Ascent and true to their name, they're perfect for Barr Trail! I would always prefer a lighter shoe, but the support is well worth the extra ounces. They also do a great job of allowing your feet to breathe, no blisters here.

I haven't been disappointed by Ibex yet! These are great for cold days, perfect for keeping you dry on warmer days, & incredibly comfortable. There is no itchy feeling from the material and it feels great against your skin. I'm typically a size 6 in pants and bought a medium, but probably could have gone with a small.

This shirt is great for layering because of it's slim fit. I use it for skiing, climbing, hiking, and running. My only complaint is that it can be a little tight - compared to how other Arc'teryx products fit. I would have prefered one size larger in this shirt.

No matter how sunny it is, for some reason I always get cold hands while skiing (especially on the lifts). I bought these for skiing and winter backcountry tours and haven't been disappointed in any way. They are a bit bulky, but that's a small price to pay for toasty hands. The PrimaLoft inner mitts are very soft & quick drying. The outer Conduit layer cuts the elements & prevents any wind or precipitation from getting through. I also love the powder cuff - no more snow up my sleeves or fumbling to tuck my gloves under my jacket. The inner mitts easily hook in/out of the outer mitts and the outer mitts can be used with a different, lighter glove on warmer days.

I purchased these assuming that the fit would be similar to other pants in my wardrobe. I usually wear a 4-6, but a 6 in these was much too tight in the waist and hips. For anyone with curves, this might not be the best option. Besides the fit, these pants are very cute and the material is soft & comfortable.

This was a great impulse buy! The sweatshirt is cuter in person than in the picture. The dandelions actually have a fuzzy texture. The sweatshirt is extremely comfortable from the soft fleecy lining to the thumb holes. It looks great with jeans and can double as a fall jacket since it's a full zip. It fits true to size.

The Montenegro is one of the best purchases I've made in awhile. The dress is fairly simple but can look elegant or casual with the right accessories. It's also one of the most comfortable dresses I've owned in my life. It hugs in all the right places, but leaves some room if you aren't stick skinny. I typically wear a size 6 in dresses, am about 5'7", and a size medium fit me perfectly.

These shorts are perfect if you're looking for something lightweight, not too short (but not too long), and high quality. I am between a small & medium, and opting with the larger size was smart (I don't like shorts that are tight). The fabric is smooth, highly breathable, & will not chafe or ride up on long runs. You'll pay a bit of a premium for the Arc'teryx name but, from my experience, the quality you get is well worth a few extra dollars.

For the price, this helmet is a great value. I have used it for rock climbing and in alpine climbing situations - it is very lightweight and won't weigh down the pack! It is easy & quick to adjust, even with only one hand available.

This is another great product from Arc'teryx. I've used these pants in the backcountry, skiing at resorts, & x-country skiing. They fit tighter than what I was accustomed to, but are surprisingly flexible. The bottoms fit perfectly over my ski boots with a snug inner layer to prevent any snow from entering. Despite how lightweight they are, with a just a thin layer underneath, I stay warm on most days above 15 degrees. I highly recommend this pair of pants!

I bought this watch as a gift, but had to spend some time playing with it before handing it over! You can tell the quality by just picking it up - it is heavier than most watches and is very solid in construction. The watch has a very classy & sophisticated appearance, but is still modern. The self-renewing motion is perfect for someone who doesn't want to take the time to change batteries.

I have never been disappointed with Outdoor Research in the past and I just purchased another great product. Despite the size, I was impressed with the amount of control I still have with the Radia Gloves. The tops of the gloves are more insulated than the palms, allowing more dexterity. These definitely aren't cheap, but you get what you pay for. The construction is impeccable and the quality fleece in the liner makes them very warm. I also like how snug they fit around the wrists when tightened.

I'm not a typical Roxy customer (I usually leave this brand to my 16 year old niece). But, I was looking for a lightweight zip sweatshirt for spring/summer and stumbled upon this one. It's extremely comfortable, appears to be good quality, and & is the perfect weight for 60-70 degree days. I think Roxy runs a bit small (at least for anyone over 18), so I ordered a size up & it fits perfectly.

I probably wear this layer 2x/week in the winter and it is an essential part of my wardrobe. It is ideal as an outer layer for running & perfect under a shell for colder days on the mountain. I don't think I own another layer that wicks moisture as efficiently. In addition to great performance, it fits comfortably close to the body (with enough room for a light layer underneath) without any chafing at the neck. I am usually between a small & medium, but wear a small in this item.

This is the most comfortable sports tank I have owned, & it wicks well in hot, humid weather. I use it mostly for hiking & climbing because it only provides light support. It also provides full coverage on my stomach/waist area.

I love the fact that this beanie is partially made of bamboo (it's much more sustainable than other fibers on the market). The fabric might feel a bit rough, but the hat is lined with a thick, warm fleece except for the very top. It brings warmth to your ears & makes it breathable. The fit is very snug & comfortable.

Compared to other hiking pants I've owned, these are far & away the best. I can't stand heavier, more abrasive materials (even if they are more durable). These pants are incredibly lightweight, soft against the skin, and didn't snag on rocks or trees. The fit is perfect - OR designed these pants for an average woman's body (they might be a bit large in the hips & butt for someone who is very petite). I ordered a medium & typically wear a size 6.

I've only had this a few days, but I can tell this will be a staple in my winter wardrobe. The lining is incredibly soft, it's not bulky like other sweaters, and it's much warmer than I expected. I like the contrast piping around the neck, sleeves, and bottom. It gives it a more "wearable" look when you're off the trail or slopes. I typically wear a small in Arcteryx, but ordered a medium in this. It's a perfect fit (a small would have been too short & tight).

I don't think there is such a thing as having too many Nalgenes. We use them daily to keep hydrated and always when we hike, camp, or workout. They are lightweight, you can't break them, and they wash well in the dishwasher (I can't say the same for all of the stickers I put on them). I also love that no matter what liquid I have in the bottle, I can't taste it after washing.

I've worn these pants at least 2x/week since I purchased them months ago. They are great for cold season yoga classes, lounging, and I've worn them to work a few times. Even though they are capris, they are extremely warm. The inside is lined with a soft fleecy material. I normally wear a size 6 in pants & am 5'7" and the medium is a good fit.

I was a huge skeptic when it came to running skirts. I thought this was just a ploy to appeal to sporty soccer moms. But, after trying out this skirt I get it. If I ever run another marathon, I won't be without this. The ultralight lining feels great next to your skin without chafing. The outer skirt layer is extraordinarily lightweight, so you feel like you're running in next to nothing! The waist wasn't too tight, like some running shorts feel (I think this actually runs a little large).

This is the second dress I've ordered from Billabong this summer and I haven't been disappointed. The dress is very lightweight, fits tightly at the top, and loose under the chest. This makes it a great piece to have on the 100 degree days. It is cut very low, but you don't have to wear a bra b/c it is lined well. This fits true to size (I normally wear a size 6 & a medium was perfect). I was also impressed with how well it washes, even with the detail at the bottom & thin straps.

This was my first Contourwear purchase and it's made me a believer. I'm so impressed with the combination of class, comfort, durability, and function of this shirt. The fabric feels like a micro-suede (you'll find that strangers come up to you & rub your arm), but it is highly breathable and warm. I never got cold in this shirt, even in the dead of winter. You'll pay a bit of a premium because of the quality and versatility, but it's worth every penny. I've worn this too many times to count and it still looks brand new.

I bought 2 of these chairs for the Telluride Bluegrass Festival this year and was 90% happy with them. They come with a nice shoulder strap and were light enough to run with (I beat out other people in line who had big, clunky chairs for a better tarp spot)! They are sturdy enough to support a 200 lb person and the low back is great where high-back chairs aren't allowed or are an annoyance to others. These aren't the most comfortable chairs, though, if you plan to sit for more than a couple of hours without moving around. There are no arm rests or any real support for your lower back.

Since I purchased these shorts, I've worn them about 2x/week. They are extremely comfortable because the fabric is lightweight & soft. I've worn them to work, on short bike rides, and hiking. The sizing seems to run small, though. I had to return my first pair and order a size larger than the largest size I typically wear in any other brand.

This is great for low impact hikes or biking. It holds my keys, ID, and snacks (not to mention water) - a much better alternative to stuffing it in pockets, holding on to it, or carrying a heavier pack. For higher impact activities, like running, be careful what is worn underneath. I've had a few instances where I was badly chafed. Otherwise, it's a quick & easy hydration solution.

I probably wear this layer 2x/week in the winter and it is an essential part of my wardrobe. It is ideal as an outer layer for running & perfect under a shell for colder days on the mountain. I don't think I own another layer that wicks moisture as efficiently. In addition to great performance, it fits comfortably close to the body (with enough room for a light layer underneath) without any chafing at the neck. I am usually between a small & medium, but wear a small in this item.

Finally!! Someone made a sunscreen that is not messy to apply, dries quickly, isn't greasy, doesn't sweat off, and doesn't clog my pores. I am very cautious about the types of sunscreen I will use on my face and wanted something highly effective (especially for skiing where burns can get nasty). But, I don't like the idea of getting performance sunscreen at the cost of a breakout. Kinesys has come up with a perfect solution for me. Plus, it's not too expensive and lasts quite a long time.

With all of the options on the market made specifically for women, it might not make sense to buy this shoe, but it has worked for me. I do have to work with the laces a bit more than I would like to get them tight enough. But, the grip is excellent and they are not painfully uncomfortable.

This layer is perfect for fall or spring activities when temperatures are around 45-55 degrees or as a layer underneath a shell for winter activity. It wicks well and does not retain any order like many other base layers. The lightweight material is very soft against the skin and washes well. It seems that this shirt runs a bit large, though. I am usually between a small & medium, but a medium in this shirt almost swallows me.

If you love the idea of the other "hummer" shirts but wonder about the reactions you'll get, this is a great alternative. The shirt is made of an incredibly comfortable organic cotton and washes/dries well. Just be sure to order a size larger than normal as it is a tight fit.

I purchased these as my first pair of snowshoes for mellow hikes & ski approaches (where snow is too deep for skinning). They are very light weight and not a strain on the pack. It only takes a couple of seconds to put them on, which is great in cold weather when you just want to keep moving. They have worked great in deep snow and anything moderately steep.

This is great for low impact hikes or biking. It holds my keys, ID, and snacks (not to mention water) - a much better alternative to stuffing it in pockets, holding on to it, or carrying a heavier pack. For higher impact activities, like running, be careful what is worn underneath. I've had a few instances where I was badly chafed. Otherwise, it's a quick & easy hydration solution.

I wouldn't buy these again. I've had quite a bit of trouble keeping them locked, which is pretty annoying when you're carrying a heavy pack up a steep trail. When they are working, I don't have any complaints about the weight, comfort, or stability they provide. They work well on rocky terrain and they absorb a majority of the shock.

When I bought this hat I had no idea how much I would use it. It's thin enough to fit under a helmet on cold days, but warm enough to wear alone in 20+ degree weather for running, hiking, climbing, ect. I also like to wear it around town - it looks as good as any beanie I own (maybe that says something about my lack of style, though?) I've worn this hat more days than I could ever count and after washing it is like new again. This is an absolute "must have" for any gear closet.

I don't think I can wear these out! Much of the long underwear I have bought in the past lasts a season and suddenly I'm left mending holes or throwing them in the trash. These bottoms are a great value - they wick moisture like a pro, are very comfortable on the waist & skin, and don't cost as much as some of the wool alternatives. Patagonia sizing is a bit strange for me (especially in pants). I take a smaller size in the long underwear than I do in their hiking & ski pants.

These are the only socks I wear with my ski boots (year round). I prefer a tighter boot fit and need something thin, but high quality. These socks will last for the long haul. I just bought a second pair, but have washed & worn my other pair at least 30 ski days with no signs of wear. If you like your ski boots to feel like a pair of Uggs, definitely go with a thicker sock - otherwise, these are great for anything with a performance fit.