The Alpinist Mountain Standards reviews apply Alpinist's tradition of excellence and authenticity to gear reviews by providing unbiased, candid feedback and anecdotal commentary to equipment tested (hard) in the field. Our panel is comprised of climbers who use the gear every day as part of their work and play. Only the gear they would actually buy themselves, at retail price, qualifies for the Alpinist Mountain Standards award. The five-star rating system is as follows: One Star = Piece of junk. Two Stars = Has one or more significant flaws, with some redeeming qualities. Three Stars = Average. This solid piece of gear is middle-of-the-road on the current market. Four Stars = Better than most comparable gear on the market. It has one or two drawbacks, but still 90% positive. Five Stars = Is there such thing as perfection? An Alpinist Mountain Standards award-winner. Review Panel Adam George Caroline George Larry Goldie Blake Herrington John Race Bert Severin Jed Workman The rest of the MS Team |
 Vasque PingorasPosted on: August 1, 2005 
MSRP: $60 I had a pair of these sticky rubber shoes last summer; I think I ran up the Grand Teton in them as well. These kicks provide excellent stability, sensitivity, rock adhesion and rock protection, whether it be a stroll around the lake or a tricky cairn laden climbers trail that peters out into granite. The Pingora's unique, asymmetrical lacing system works great for cinching things down tight when the incline gets steep, or loosening them up when you are charging down a scree field or running back to the rig. I really like how they have a big, fat heel too: so helpful for going downhill... fast. The package is complete with proven Stealth rubber underneath, a must for rocky terrain. |
