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Review: CAMP Ascent Crampon
Author: Ian Peterson, AAI Guide The Bottom Line The Camp Ascent provides a versatile, higher end option for a 10-point steel crampon. At a slightly higher price, the weight conscious climber can save a few ounces while retaining a high level of functionality for all snow and moderate ice climbing applications. Ideal Routes Easton Glacier, Kulshan (Mt. Baker) Coleman Deming, Kulshan (Mt. Baker) Kautz Glacier Route, Tahoma (Mt. Rainier) Emmons Glacier, Tahoma (Mt. Rainier) Disappointment Cleaver, Tahoma (Mt. Rainier) Fischer Chimneys, Mt. Shuksan Sulphide Glacier Route, Mt. Shuksan Any steep snow!!! The Review As a climber, skier, and...
Spotlight: Skida Tour
This winter, skiers and snowboarders will travel into the mountains, play at ski resorts, and venture into the backcountry. While most resorts will require guests to wear masks, I expect neck gaiters to reign supreme. The Tour neck gaiter by Skida is one of the best pieces of protection out there, that also looks good and feels good. Here's why: The Skida Tour is made up of a Brushed Thermal Poly-Spandex fabric with moisture management and anti-microbial technology (92% Polyester, 8% Spandex). This means it's excellent at absorbing moisture droplets, while staying breathable and soft. Thicker than your traditional Buff, the Skida Tour has...
Review: Black Diamond Cirque 30 pack
Cirque 35 (left) and Cirque 30 (right) As backcountry skiers, we carry a variety of things in our packs. There's the standard, beacon, shovel, and probe, but there are also extra layers, water, a repair kit, first aid, and the list goes on. While requirements vary by user, I think we're all in agreement that an ideal pack fits and functions well, with lightweight and durability as added bonuses. While I've only had the Cirque 30 pack from Black Diamond a few months, so far it checks the boxes of fit, function, and lightweight. I'll give you a durability report in a...
Salewa Wildfire Approach Shoes
If someone ever tells you to walk a day in their shoes, you should hope that they are wearing the Wildfires. If this is the case, I recommend walking, hiking and climbing in them because they excel in every category.Crux AK 57 Pack
Tester for this review: Chad Cochran
Item Tested: Crux AK 57 Backpack
Testing Areas / conditions: The North Cascades (thick brush), Alaska (granite alpine rock climbing), and the Cordillera Real in Bolivia (Spring alpine climbing)
Approximate # Days tested: 40
Basic description of product: The Crux pack is a simple rucksack designed around the use and abuse required travelling and climbing in the Mountains.