Jun 18 2015
Editors Note: This is a fairly technical report on a change that has occurred to the technology we commonly refer to as “waterproof/breathable” for outdoor apparel. The short version is the chemical composition changed from C8 to C6 while you weren’t looking. What follows is the reason why, and what it means going forward. …
Apr 17 2015
Regulating body heat when your heart is pumping hard to keep up with your lungs and legs is typically a balance between wearing the right amount of insulation combined with the ability to bleed off the heat and consequent sweat. Some of that can be managed by what fibers you chose to wear next …
Jun 01 2014
For years I’ve known about Patagonia’s legendary lifetime warranty, but, until last week, had never used it. As a gear ‘ho/reviewer I rarely latch on to a single product and hold it, thus, no need to exercise a lifetime warranty. Patagonia’s puffy pullover was an easy exception to make. Initially I wasn’t too keen …
Apr 06 2014
Just as real skiers have a quiver of skis, at least two, so goes the wardrobe of backcountry skiers. You need two jackets – one that is more waterproof for when it’s puking rain, and one that is more breathable for when it’s not. Of course, the goal is always to have one that …
Feb 05 2014
PR guys can tell you all sorts of things. If you just regurgitate them, you’re not practicing journalism, you’re shilling for them. In the ski world, where we’re all just pumping each other up with the opportunity to schuss through the ever dwindling offering from the heavens, any piece of gear that does it …
Sep 18 2013
When Black Diamond announced they were going all in on clothing, I was fairly confident they would do a good job with respect to functionality first without ignoring fashion. Of the few pieces I’ve worn and used so far, they hit the nail squarely on the head. Keep in mind it isn’t like I …
Mar 11 2013
When Black Diamond set out to impress the press with the launch of their apparel line it was obvious what they intended to do. Frankly I wasn’t expecting that much of substance, but figured it would be a good show. Indeed, the showmanship was top notch for a bunch of guys struting their athletic builds …
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