Mountain Standards

Posted July 31, 2008

Scarpa Spectro: Sticks to Steep

I've found generally that what bouldering lacks in height, it makes up for in difficulty. Big-Nosed Millie (V9) at Hueco Tanks—a short, powerful, pocketed roof problem—is a classic example: a dirt-burgling lowball that will cramp your abdominals and snap your tendons. Although the aesthetics of this climb are far from world class, it was a perfect venue to test the aggressively downturned Scarpa Spectro climbing shoes.



Posted July 23, 2008

Arc'teryx Pali: The Thinking Man's Rope Bag

the Pali looked innovative, and I was excited to see what possibly could be new in rope bag design.



Posted July 14, 2008

Petzl Meteor III Helmet: Faithfully Lightweight

At 235 grams the Petzl Meteor III is extremely lightweight, and throughout the day I had to tap my head to make sure the helmet was still on.



Posted July 3, 2008

C.A.M.P. Carbon Fiber Avalanche Probe: Featherweight

Though marketed for "competitive ski mountaineering," and complying with the minimum requirements of the International Ski Mountaineering Federation, I have a feeling that its featherweight design will attract more than lycra-clad rando racers. Who wouldn't want to shave a few more ounces from their packs?



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