Mount Logan 2010 Ski Expedition - King's Trench route

Gear Review Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition

2010-06-09T15:13:00.000-07:00

Shovels

Three of us had 3 shovels. I think 2 shovels for 3 people team is fine, but since we were crossing high avalanche risk area we decided to carry full avalanche gear (shovel, transceiver and probe). Both guys had red shovels and my Mammut Alugator was black. We decided to designate my black Alugator for toilet work only and red shovels for snow work (cooking and cleaning deposited snow around the tent). It's very important to separate shovels since people get sick easily out there.

Basecamp cache

We had one large paint bucket as a base cashe. For sure water couldn't get in and we marked the cashe with long bamboo pole.

BlueWater Ropes

Three of us had 70m long Blue Water rope (Dominator 9.4mm). This outstanding quality rope gave three of us options to coil good length of rope and still have perfect distance between. Dominator is the one of the lightest certified Single ropes on Earth. Also on the picture below are Millet Duffel 120lit and my LEKI Mountain Lite Carbon two section ski poles. LEKI poles are extremely durable with newly designed handles & AERGON Thermo Long / Neoprene Lock Security Strap.

Cadbury
ColdAvenger
Coldpruf
Delkin Devices

Daymen/Lowepro

Dermatone

Dynafit

Eco Neutral
Excalibur
FortyBelow

GSI

Stove boards were cut from thin plywood and worked well. We had two for our two MSR XGK EX stoves. Cooking was easy and melting snow very quick.
To melt snow for three of us we had GSI 5 liter pot and for cooking 3 liter pot. In base camp we used FryBake but left it in the cashe when we moved up. We decided to take lid with us and it was excellent decision. MSR XGK stoves are exceptionally strong and if you are not watching closely could melt original GSI lids.

Lowe Alpine/Infinity-Sports

I love my Lowe Alpine TFX10 bag because of enormous capacity (95lit). I think this is critical for Alskan or Yukon expedition. Large pack which can carry solid load is very important! I could easily do double carries in my pack, and cinch it down nicely to a smaller size for summit. I rigged sled and reinforced the ski ski carry system at home.

Leki
Lenbrook
Lexar
Marmot

Mammut

I needed -40C bag. I sleep warm but I like to sleep in underwear. Bags are mostly mummy style and if you go for less temperature rating to save on bulk and weight, you are forced to put your pants on, and jacket on and sleeping becomes challenge. I didn't have inner bag and overbag. I think I will bring it next time. If not overbag then bivvy bag as a barrier. My metabolism slows down on elevation and I need more warmth. I realized that warmth is coming from proper nutrition and hydration but still I like -40C bags for trips like this.

Mike Wiegele

Millet

Motorola

Movement

MSR

Nemo Equipment

I never bring tent footprint in winter and my Tenshi doesn't have any designed. Tenshi has inner floor caller RIF but I left it at home. It is too bulky to carry. Many expeditionists bring inner floor. I created mine with Intuition Sports generous support. It is not covering whole floor but add phenomenal warmth. I had Pacific Outdoor Peak Oyl and Uber Elite pads. Top of the line setup.

Nokia
Otterbox

Outdoor Research

Pacific Outdoor Equipment

Petzl
Ruth's Hemp Foods
Smartwool
Smith Optics

Shure

Solio
Suunto
Zojirushi

Sleds

No one likes sleds! Never met a person who enjoyed pulling them or skiing back with them. Two guys had long, heavy sleds with rigid attachment poles more suitable for crossing endless icefields to the North Pole. They struggled with them. I had my Krazy Karpet sled with prussic rig, which I rolled up after reaching upper camp, attached it to my pack, stuffed duffel bag into my Lowe Alpine TFX10 and skied down.

However, I had a lot of problems skiing down with a sled on steep hills. Duffel constantly kicked the back of my skis, rolled over and pulled me sideways. Latter I discovered when duffel rolled over, if I continue to ski duffel started acting like a big brake. I think straps were the brakes. I was delighted until duffel started rolling to proper position and started kicking me again.

Canada West Mountain School Team, Canadian Forces Team and Japanese Team used the “kiddie” sled system. We noticed how sleds were flipping while they were passing us. They sure hated their sleds. I remember those kiddie sleds from Denali.

Cooktent

Cooktent is a great thing to have. Coking and socializing in tents like this is very important for a team morale. We rented BDel Megamid from ACC Vancouver section and had a great time sitting and cooking there. I didn't have enough money to buy my own cooktent. Next time I will have my own GoLite Shangry-La (3-person) pyramid tent. I read on Internet that fabric is thin on Shangri-La but I think that is not a big issue. Cooktents MUST be taken down before storm hit the camp. We made a small mistake not taking cooking tent down at Camp1, so when storm came all deposited snow broke the tent pole. We used one of the long bamboo poles for a replacement. As soon as I came back to Vancouver, I purchased new pole for my club with a generous support from GoLite. Thanks guys ...

Head

I usually bring few hats and balaclavas. On lower glacier I had my Baseball hat with bandanna. I had light Smartwool hat for moving uphill and two Outdoor Research alpine hats (Alpine and Peruvian style). Both are Gore windstopper. I also had my outdoor Research Balaclava for the coldest days and Talus Cold Avenger face mask for extreme cold. I never bring neck gear.

Hands

I really like to protect my hands. I am working with computers in the office. Losing fingers could impact my job and life greatly. last year I heard from Krzysztof Wielicki (during his presentation) that people on expeditions worry losing toes too much. He said toes are not important because there is no use for them. Maybe only big ones ... He was more concerned losing his fingers.

So, I carefully choose the best stuff available. My main mountaineering gloves are Hestra XCR model. I like five finger gloves and these are the warmest I had so far. I bet three finger model is even warmer, but I was comfortable ordering these. On Denali (in 2008) I had Hestra Heli model and gloves were awesome. XCR model is even warmer!

Of course, my summit gloves are always Outdoor Research Alti Miitens. I have them since my Denali expedition and they will stay with me forever. This time I left liner at home and put in my new LEKI mittens. Just for fun and to see how this will work out.

I can tell you ... This is a warm setup. I had also three liner gloves (OR Omni, LEKI windstopper and LEKI solk liner). Most of the time I had my Omni gloves and I like them so much.

Torso

I had all the time Smartwool Microweight Zip-T on me. Second layer was Icebreaker Zip-T to protect my neck. For sleeping I had Coldpruf crew baselayer. My midlayer was Marmot Power Stretch Full Zip jacket.

As a backup I had Outdoor Research Contour Windshirt. Never used it ... My shoftshell was Millet Radical Schoeller jacket. It's a serious softshell.

Outer layer was my Outdoor Research Furio jacket. My insulated jacket was Westcomb Himalaya Hoody and my main parka was Mammut Ambler. I took out my Ambler one afternoon and it was too hot so I switch back to hoody. Ambler will shine on the summit platoe but we never reached it. Bummer!

Legs

I am usually ok with leg layers. Never got cold so far. I had one Smartwool lightweight long underwear and stayed all the time in it. For midlayer I had Coldpruf baselayer and my ski pants were Marmot Randonnee bibs. Didn't have down pants. Maybe next time?

Feet

I paid extra attention to my feet. I had several Teko Merino Wool socks. Around camp I used The North Face camp booties. Ski boots had a layer over from 40Below, my Purple Haze.

Sunglasses and Goggles

The Smith was my choice for sunglasses. I wear prescription glasses and needed something really outstanding. Smith makes great stuff. I had my old Julbo Microspores as a backup.

I had the Smith OTG goggles. Perfect, warm goggles i could put over my prescription glasses. I used my goggles briefly just before Camp2 in total whiteout and they were awesome!

The most important is to start shopping for gear well in advance. It really takes a long time to prepare all your food and adequate gear. You have to test your gear before this kind of the trips.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Report

2010-06-09T09:36:00.000-07:00

The Law of the Yukon by Robert Service

This is the law of the Yukon, and ever she makes it plain:
"Send not your foolish and feeble; send me your strong and your sane --
Strong for the red rage of battle; sane for I harry them sore;
Send me men girt for the combat, men who are grit to the core;
Swift as the panther in triumph, fierce as the bear in defeat,
Sired of a bulldog parent, steeled in the furnace heat.
Send me the best of your breeding, lend me your chosen ones;
Them will I take to my bosom, them will I call my sons;
Them will I gild with my treasure, them will I glut with my meat;
But the others -- the misfits, the failures -- I trample under my feet."

Mt. Logan summit advice

2010-05-21T21:08:00.000-07:00

Conditions can vary from week to week and year to year. So , you have to be somewhat prepared for the worst but not over burdened. It may depend , also on where your high camp is at.

Most groups camp on the plateau near the base of Russell Peak. This is a good compromise, as it gives you a reasonable chance to summit , but also if you have to retreat it is not too far from Prospector’s Col. This choice means you may have to climb the West summit descend a 1000 feet and then climb back up to do the main summit. The other choice is to camp further east and at a lower elevation. This gives you a straight shot at the main summit.

A key decision is to wait for a good weather window before going up on to the plateau for the summit bid. There is a world of weather difference from the west side and moving on to the plateau. The west side is a series of solar bowls sheltered from extreme winds. Prospector’s or windy col is just that – always windy and often obscured. The plateau is open gently rolling terrain , few landmarks , often breezy and 20 degrees Fahrenheit colder than the west side. Lots of groups are surprised by the difference – they are trail tough by then , but the mountain is starting to wear them down , altitude is a factor , so you must be physically and mentally strong to make a successful summit bid.

Advice from guides’ – wait for a calm day to make your summit attempt. If it is windy , people are often turned back even if it is clear. Windy on the plateau means a howling gale on the summits.

Minimum gear would be ice axe and crampons for each person , group gear of 2 ice screws , 2 pickets , and a rope. We had a strong team , excellent visibility and good snow conditions and did not use the rope or any protection . We went halfway up the NW face then traversed east , over to the easier ridge crest.

Main summit - Some people tackle the north west face straight on and it is not that steep , ~ 45 degrees , there may be bare ice or hard packed snow. It is a potential avalanche slope but the run out is quite gradual. That said , no one wants to get caught in an avalanche at that altitude. So , some people go more to the west and go up the steeper ice slope. The ridge crest ascending toward a SW direction to the summit is the easiest way. It is easy to access from any point and not too steep. It can be corniced so that you have to be a few feet on the NW face.

Mt. Logan general route

2010-05-21T09:21:00.000-07:00

GENERAL ROUTE

1. BASECAMP 9,000 feet - wide valley
route 7 km, gentle hills, 2 or 3 filled crevasses;

2. CAMP 1 10,000 feet - several possibilities of camps from 10,000 to 11,000 feet but avalanche concerns from big slope run-outs, best site approximately 1 km from steep ramp and in center of the trench;
-route 6 km, first one km is flat , then steep ramp , at its crest is 2 bridged crevasses, flat section, then 1 moderate hill;

3. CAMP 2 13,500 feet - King Col
Camps from 13,000 (halfway up moderate hill to) to 13,500 site (base of headwall but away from serac fall) can be windy on the col but then have good view of headwall route 2 ½ km;
a) up headwall, approx.45 degrees for 700 feet, with crampons on if hard snow or Z turns with skis and skins but no rope or sled;
b) rope on, route finding difficulties through seracs and crevasses;
c) gradual to moderate and continuous climb passing over several bridged crevasses;

4. CAMP 3 15,800 feet
- camps or cache at 15,000 feet but crevasses camp at 15,800 is in bowl below football field
route 2 ½ km;
a) up a moderate hill, cross several big bridged crevasses, then on to the flat section called the football field , then a moderate climb;

5. CAMP 4 17,100 feet
Camp below Prospector’s Pass is a very long, long day (minimum 16 - 20 hours) if try to go over pass, climb the peak and return to this camp, would need to be in tremendous shape ,well acclimatized and have no mistakes, cooler temperatures but still sunny, windy
-route 4km.
a) moderate climb to pass at 18,000 ft., take climbing skins off , descend northward then traverse southeast across side hills and hard snow gradually losing altitude , down to plateau

6. CAMP 5 17,500 feet
Camp at base of Mt. Russel (need some landmark as can be windy area) quite cold temperatures on plateau, less sun , more wind. Camp on plateau at lower elevations, possible two different routes to summit both 6 km long;
a) if camped on plateau then head straight for main summit;
b) if camped near Russel Peak, then gradual climb toward West Peak then may traverse around the north side of this peak and keep altitude, or climb up and over West Peak then descending 1000 ft before climbing main peak;

TRIP IDEAS

CLOTHING AND SLEEP STUFF:
- light colored mesh ball cap & bandanna for sun protection;
- use vapor barrier socks if poor drying conditions;
- therm-a-rest & closed cell foamy excellent combination;
- generally warm low down and cold up high, flexible clothing;

TRAVEL:
- start early and avoid mid-day heat as it zaps energy and lose lots of fluids (depending upon temperatures);
- think about 1 sled on plateau, helps transport knee injuries;
- sleds go easy to Prospectors except headwall;
- ferry loads with extra clothes left at high cache & use garbage bags, stuff sacs at caches;
- warm ski skins against torso if cold & poor adhesion;
- plan to be in camp 1500 hrs , then dry gear 2 hours if heat and sweating is a problem;

CAMPS:
- need snow walls, mark latrine & snow/H2O collection;
- secure gear at sites as wind & snowfall, ski poles planted by handles so don’t blow away;
- need water storage container, black garbage bag with snow left outside during daytime;
- thermos critical, hot H2O in morning lessens time spent over stove before travel;
- tent vestibule cooking site if windy;
- sponge for tent roof if hoarfrost or bivy sac to cover gear inside tent when melts and gone traveling for the day;
- cache spare food, fuel , gear at each camp and lighten load as go higher;
- food often need variety, seasoning, salt and expect to high grade meals for higher camps;

Excalibur Dehydrator

2010-05-16T23:02:00.001-07:00

Patrice Folliet et Michel Paccalet rencontrent Reinhold Messner durant les Piolets d'Or 2010

2010-05-15T12:59:00.000-07:00

MILLETENTREPRISE — April 23, 2010 —

Mt. Logan Expedition Socks

2010-05-12T10:10:00.001-07:00

Teko Socks was founded in Boulder, CO in 2004, around the idea of making premium performance outdoor socks with the least possible environmental impact.

Today Boulder is still our home and sustainability is still the foundation that drives every aspect of our company. From product sourcing through production and packaging, to delivery.

We approach sustainability as a balancing act. It's not possible to produce a product without using energy and natural resources, so it's our job to minimize our footprint at every stage. A major element of our commitment is constant research of new materials and production techniques to make that footprint smaller.

40Below Overboots Modifications

2010-05-12T09:50:00.001-07:00

My 40Below Purple Haze over boots are designed for Alpine or high altitude boots. On my Denali 2008 expedition they fit perfectly over my double boots.

This time, on Mt. Logan I will use them over my Dynafit Zzero4 AT boots, so I modified over boots a little. My Dynafit ST Vertical bindings have a pins in the front and the heel pieces. Good thing is that my Purple Haze over boots are made of neoprene material, which is very elastic and doesn't rip further when you make a hole.

Just because I am big fan of duck tape, I taped it a little from the inside. I don't think this is necessary but I taped it anyway.

To see more amazing products from 40Below click on the 40Below logo:

Mt Logan Expedition Repair Kit Accessories

2010-05-12T09:49:00.001-07:00

Ski Gear

2010-05-12T09:48:00.000-07:00

Dynafit Skis, Dynafit Vertical ST Bindings & Ski Crampons, CollTex Skins, Intuition Liners, Dynafit Zzero4 Ski Boots, Mammut Alugator Shovel Transceiver and Avalanche Probe

Dynafit Skis, Dynafit Vertical ST Bindings & Ski Crampons, CollTex Skins & Leki Poles

Mt Logan Expedition Headwear, Sleeping Accessories and Booties

2010-05-12T09:47:00.001-07:00

Mt. Logan Expedition Clothes

2010-05-12T09:44:00.000-07:00

Mt Logan Expedition Food

2010-05-12T09:41:00.000-07:00

John Baldwin's food list and other expedition tips

2010-05-07T16:40:00.000-07:00

John Baldwin

Growing up in Vancouver, John Baldwin became fascinated by the Coast Mountains that rise above the city and developed a lifelong passion to explore this incredible range of mountain wilderness.

Over the past 35 years he has completed numerous first ascents and pioneered many long ski traverses, often to remote areas that have rarely been seen or photographed. For John, the purpose of these explorations is to travel through the mountain wilderness, to climb high snowy peaks, to search for sheltered basins where the snow is deep and light, to look at patterns in the new fallen snow, stare at the chaos of a jumbled icefall or experience the stillness of a vast icefield.

The motivation for his writing and photography is to inspire others to discover and connect with the intense beauty of this mountain wilderness. It is a celebration of where we live and how wonderful it is.

John Baldwin and click on the Trip Planning tab

Vancouver scores a first with fair trade status

2010-05-07T12:55:00.000-07:00

We were very pleased when Cadbury supported three of us, Vancouver based mountaineers, with their Fair Trade chocolates ... If you come to Vancouver you can see how much fair trade food is available in city stores. This resulted that Vancouver has become the first major Canadian city to be certified for Fair Trade Town status.

City commits to buying ethically made products

By Jeff Lee, Vancouver Sun May 7, 2010

That means it buys products such as coffee, tea, sugar and even soccer balls that have been made ethically and for which producers — largely low-income farmers and labourers — have been paid fairly.

In a largely symbolic gesture aimed at showing the city is leading by example, Vancouver council on Thursday voted to take the final step toward achieving Fair Trade Town status.

It did so by completing an application by Fair Trade Vancouver, a non-profit group, to have the city declared a fair-trade environment.

The city says it likely won't cost taxpayers any more to stock its meetings, cafeteria and offices "where possible and practicable" with fair trade items. That's because since 2005, Vancouver has had an ethical purchasing policy that does largely the same thing.

Read more: Vancouver Sun Story

ColdAvenger Goes Global with Norwegian Distributor

2010-05-05T18:58:00.000-07:00

Talus Outdoor Technologies, LLC®, maker of the revolutionary ColdAvenger line of cold weather face masks, has announced a distributor partnership with XC Sports to introduce ColdAvenger products to the Norwegian market. XC Sports is Talus' first distribution partner in Europe.

“We are pleased to bring ColdAvenger products to Europe through such a progressive and reputable company that understands how important it is to protect the lungs and airway from chronic cold weather injury,” says John Sullivan III, CEO of Talus. “This partnership is a great base for our consumer demand overseas.”

“We see the ColdAvenger as an exciting solution to cold weather health issues,” says Kristoffer Kleven, CEO of XC Sports. “The Norwegian people are ardent outdoor enthusiasts and will reap the benefits of the ventilation system and overall protection from the elements.”

ColdAvenger products have a medical grade polyurethane nose and mouth chamber which mixes inhaled cold air with exhaled warm air to achieve a dynamic balance of warmth and humidity while keeping moisture away from the face. The ColdAvenger’s patent-pending ventilation technology creates a comfortable microclimate that keeps temperatures inside the mask 40˚– 60˚F higher than outside air.

XC Sports Equipment has, since 2003, offered the best equipment in handling, ride and freeriding.
With experienced suppliers working with small to medium-sized businesses, XC Sports has a significant advantage in actively influencing the development of products for the Norwegian market, adapted to Norwegian conditions. XC Sports specializes in first-hand product testing and evaluation of the results to ensure top-quality solutions to the customer.

Founded and headquartered in Missoula, Montana, Talus Outdoor Technologies™ is a leading innovator in technologically-advanced outdoor gear. Talus is dedicated to helping outdoor enthusiasts Stay Out Longer.™ In 2007, Talus introduced the ColdAvenger®, an advanced, high-quality cold weather protection mask developed by a physician and a skier. The ColdAvenger® is the result of more than two years of research and development testing in Northern Rocky Mountain winters to achieve four functional goals: thermal comfort, ventilation adequacy, moisture control and ease of breathing during exercise. Talus is proud to provide an elite product while being socially and environmentally conscious. www.talusoutdoortech.com Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/coldavengerpro and Facebook: www.facebook.com/coldavengerpro

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Smith Optics Knowledge OTG

2010-04-28T13:09:00.000-07:00

My last pair of OTG goggles were from Oakley but looks like they had some kind of design flaw. They were fogging constantly! I was keen to change them and have something better. Now, I have an opportunity to try the Knowledge OTG goggles around Vancouver (just before the trip to Yukon). I read so many good reviews about Knowledge OTG's online. Goggles are essential for ski expeditions like this. Winds are relentless there and in addition to better visibility you are warmer.

From Smith site:

The best fog prevention system available for eyeglass users.

Features:

* Articulating strap positioning system
* Carbonic-X lens with TLT Optics
* Dual Layer Driwix Face Foam
* Floating foam membrane eliminates eyeglass temple pressure
* Helmet Compatible
* Large fit
* Microfiber bag included
* O.D.S. and eyeglass compatible
* Patented Vaporator Lens Technology with Porex™ Filter
* QuickFit strap adjustment system
* Two-speed, micro-electronic fan
* Ultra-Wide Silicone Backed Strap

Petzl PRO TRAXION and MINI TRAXION self-jamming pulleys receive SuperTopo.com awards

2010-04-28T08:21:00.000-07:00

SuperTopo.com, one of the most influential climbing web sites in the world, recently announced the results of the SuperTopo 2010 Editors’ Choice Awards for the Hauling Device category, naming the Petzl PRO TRAXION winner of the coveted Editor’s Choice Award for 2010 and the Petzl MINI TRAXION winner of the Recommended Award for 2010.

The super-efficient PRO TRAXION sports a large-diameter sheave mounted on sealed ball bearings, and a toothed cam with a self-cleaning slot. “There are many reasons this is the most popular hauling device in Yosemite: it’s incredibly easy to set up, strong, and has a very smooth pulley,” says Chris McNamara, who conducted the review. Meanwhile, McNamara called the compact MINI TRAXION “the best and lightest device for hauling smaller loads.”

Petzl products have received recognition on SuperTopo.com in the past; previous SuperTopo.com Editor’s Choice Award recipients include: the ASCENSION ascender, METEOR III helmet, SELENA women’s harness, GRIGRI belay device, and the SUMMIT and SUM’TEC ice axes.

Petzl America is the U.S. division of Petzl, headquartered in France. For over 50 years, Petzl has been developing innovative tools and techniques used by those entering the vertical world. Today, the Petzl brand is closely associated with adventure, exploration, rescue, and many notable exploits in the worlds of rock climbing and alpinism. Petzl climbing hardware and headlamps can be found in outdoor specialty shops and premium sporting goods retailers around the world. For more information, visit www.petzl.com.

SuperTopo.com is the premier destination site for active, influential, and outdoor-oriented rock climbers in the United States. Offering detailed information on the most popular climbing routes in the United States’ most popular climbing areas, SuperTopo.com serves as one of the critical sites to visit when planning an outdoor climbing trip. SuperTopo.com also features the United States most-active climbing discussion forum, by and for experienced outdoor rock climbers. With topics ranging from how-to-aid climb to bolting ethics, route beta, and general fireside chit-chat, the SuperTopo Climber’s Forum is regularly frequented by many of the most well known and famous rock climbers in America.

Petzl MINI TRAXION:

Petzl PRO TRAXION:

Team training: Mt. Baker Coleman-Deming Route

2010-04-26T15:12:00.000-07:00

Liam and Brad (and their friend from UBC) climbed Mt. Baker last Friday as a training trip for Logan. Unfortunately, I was not able to join the group. Weather was not cooperating along the way but they safely made it back from this popular PNW volcano.

Mount Baker : Coleman/Deming Glacier
Highpoint Elevation: 10,781 Feet
Region/Location: North Cascades / Bellingham
Trip Length: 2 Days
Route: Heliotrope Ridge Trail / Climbers Trail
Difficulty: Glacier Travel / Strenuous
Elevation Gain: 7100 Feet
Roundtrip Distance: 12 Miles
Trailhead Elevation: 3700 Feet

Liam snapped this picture of Brad eating Cadbury Fair Trade chocolate on the summit.

2010-04-26T15:08:00.000-07:00

RS-W1 Women’s Strap – Coming Soon!

2010-04-23T20:47:00.000-07:00

RS-W1 Women's Strap

The RS-W1 is Black Rapid's introduction to designing a camera strap specifically for women. Part of the award winning R-Strap line, the RS-W1 is the world's first camera strap that focuses on the perfect fit for the female. While maintaining the traditional "Built for Speed" design, our designers added a sleek curve highlighted with an elegant but slight pattern accent. This RS-W1 provides comfort, speed, and durability along with graceful styling.

Think big: planning for expedition climbing

2010-04-23T17:56:00.000-07:00

"Logistics end most potential expeditions before they even get past the "dude, we should go to Alaska" stage, but the extra effort is well worth it to get a big trip under your belt. Proper planning for a serious trip involves anywhere from six to 10 months, and you really don't want to miss an important step."

Read more Backcountry.com Newsletter Articles

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Outdoor Research Furio Jacket

2010-04-21T22:39:00.000-07:00

The M’s Furio Jacket™ is a workhorse for alpine exploits demanding total stormproof protection. The lightweight, breathable 70D GORE-TEX® Paclite® fabric sheds the elements and expels internal moisture, while the rugged GORE-TEX® Pro Shell fabric adds reinforcement to shoulders and sides. A fully adjustable hood fits securely over a helmet, and TorsoFlo™ hem-to-bicep side zips offer ventilation when the going gets tough.

+ Durable, waterproof/breathable 70D GORE-TEX® Paclite® body
+ Rugged, waterproof/breathable 70D GORE-TEX® Pro Shell shoulders and sides
+ Fully seam taped, all-conditions protection
+ Dual-pull adjustable hood fits over helmet
+ Water-resistant zippers
+ Double-separating front zipper with internal stormflap
+ Double-sliding TorsoFlo™ hem-to-bicep zippers
+ Zippered napoleon pocket with media port
+ Two zippered hand pockets
+ Hook/loop cuff closures
+ Dual drawcord hem adjustments

TorsoFlo™:
Superior ventilation adjusts with hem-to-bicep or hem-to-pit zippers to meet changing conditions.
Double-sliding zippers allow for excellent temperature regulation while providing maximum weather protection.
Double-sliding zippers open fully for unparalled poncho-style ventilation while providing all-weather coverage.

GORE-TEX® Paclite® Shell
GORE-TEX® Paclite® Shells are durably waterproof, windproof, and extremely breathable and so are ideal for trekking, hiking, cycling and other sports where weight and space are critical. GORE-TEX® Paclite® Shells combine extreme breathability and durable wind and waterproofness with minimum weight and pack volume. GORE-TEX® Paclite® Shells use a specific GORE-TEX® membrane with a protective layer on the inside made of an oil-hating substance and carbon, so no separate lining is required. This makes GORE-TEX® Paclite® Shells lighter and smaller to pack away.

GORE-TEX® Pro Shell
Engineered with the most rugged, most breathable, durably waterproof and windproof fabrics, 3-Layer GORE-TEX® Pro Shell meets the demands of outdoor professionals and serious enthusiasts. A specific GORE-TEX® membrane is firmly bonded to a tough outer material and a robust inner lining. This completely protects it from wear and makes it extremely rugged and durable. The result is an extremely rugged and durable laminate that meets the demands of outdoor professionals and serious enthusiasts.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Pacific Outdoor Equipment Sleeping Pads

2010-04-16T20:20:00.000-07:00

My sleeping pads arrived!
Mountaineers who spend a lot of time out there understand very well importance of a good sleeping pad. Besides comfort, sleeping pad is an insulator. Even in Summer ground absorb a lot of body heat.

This time I will have this unbelievable combination from Pacific Outdoor Equipment:

Peak Oyl sleeping pad
High performance with some added value, with Palm Oyl foam and recycled PET fabric, the Peak Oyl series continues our design revolution/evolution and further utilizes environmentally sensitive materials that help to foster emerging markets and technologies.

&

Uber Elite
This EVA-Aerogel-PE sandwich is a fail-safe necessity for your winter sleep system. Use it alone or in conjunction with another pad to boost your overall warmth and comfort.

When choosing sleeping pad you have to consider the terrain.

For my trip to Mt. Logan I have to pick a comfortable pad with high insulation value. Peak Oyl's
Regardless of knowing I could get by using only Pacific Outdoor Peak Oyl on Logan, I will have the Uber Elite foam pad with me. It will increase insulation rating significantly, but more importantly I will have a seat pad during lunch or rest breaks.

Uber Elite will be my seat pad in our cooking tent at dinner times.

This combination won't overload my pack for sure. Both pads are super-light and since I will be carrying lots of heavy gear, I am keen to minimize my pads weight and length.

This combination I will use is very common among expedition climbers. Most of them pick a layer a closed-cell pad under a self-inflated to achieve a warmer, more comfortable, and more versatile arrangement than any single pad.

In addition, I have to admit I am very light sleeper. Most of the time I am not sleeping very good at all out there, so comfort is very critical to me.

Peak Oyl comes with storage bag, strap and a repair kit.

How it's Peak Oyl made?

The Peak Oyl Elite is built using a 40% BIO-based palm foam. The palm (taken from the resins of a palm tree) is not a food replacement crop, which helps to reduce environmental impact and helps to slowly wean us off the petroleum that is so prevalent in many other sleeping mats and outdoor products. On all of the Peak Oyl sleeping pads, we use a recycled P.E.T. fabric. It is a green step in the right direction, not only because it reduces waste, but because the fabric itself performs better than similar 50 denier nylons and polyesters. The diamond ripstop, has always been incorporated into our pads and has proven to have the best tear and abrasion resistance than any other fabric on a high performance pad. Beyond the ripstop, the recycled PET also have similar characteristics to spiders silk, and has a tremendously high tensile strength. It has improved UV resistance over nylons that are usually used on pads because of their higher tear strength than polyesters.”

Cadbury magic

2010-04-16T16:20:00.000-07:00

Three of us are very happy at this moment! We just got our Cadbury support. Our chocolates are very special! They are new, certified Fair Trade products.

Video below showing "standard magic way" how Cadbury makes regular chocolates, but our chocolates are even more magical.

100 years ago William Cadbury chose beans from Ghana. A year ago company founded the Cadbury Cocoa Partnership. And from Autumn 2009 Cadbury Dairy Milk has been Fairtrade certified. Welcome aboard.

New Petzl Ange Carabiner

2010-04-14T08:56:00.001-07:00

From Outdoor Retailer 2010:

Usually, the winter market is pretty quiet in terms of hardware- its mostly a softgoods show. Luckily, Petzl thought that was just silly and brings us a new carabiner- and not just any new carabiner. It's Petzl's first foray into wiregate country. Meet the Ange (above). The reason Petzl never did wiregates before was twofold- the notchless factor, and the durability factor. Most wiregates have around 30,000 or so cycles before the gate starts to stick or otherwise not perform. The Ange comes in around 100,000- near to the famed Spirit's durability. They do this by internalizing the spring and using a single wire post for the gate instead of a folded piece of steel (this also keeps the nose profile very small). Thanks to the single post gate (which has a hole for self-cleaning in the nose), it also has an enormous gate opening- the Small Ange has the same opening as a full-sized Spirit, and the Large Ange's gate opening dwarfs the Spirits. The strength, of course, is classic Petzl- 20, 7, 9kn for the small, and 22, 7, and 10kn for the large version- and the price may be best part- the small (which is not that small) retails at $11, and the large retails at $12- not too shabby! (The little black plastic thing on the gate is for both comfort and to prevent snagging as a result of the single post technology). Also look for them in quickdraw form when they drop this Fall.

Cypress Mtn & Mt. Seymour Crevasse Rescue Training: April 10 & 11, 2010

2010-04-11T19:54:00.000-07:00

This weekend weather was perfect and we spent it on the hills above the city reviewing crevasse rescue setup. On our trip to Logan we would like to make sure each of us knows how to set up system, almost "blindfolded".

During the breaks we enjoyed out Flax Power bars from Ruth's Hemp Foods.

Ruth's Hemp Bars provide lots of protein and essential fatty acids! These bars are an excellent mid-point between the typical all-natural bar which is usually low-protein, and the typical "energy" bar, which is often high protein, but usually not natural.

Ruth's Hemp Bars provide about 5 grams of protein in an all natural bar to give you the energy boost you need. Most of the bars are made with toasted hemp seed, to provide a great crunch! Three are made with SoftHempTM, Ruth's own certified organic shelled hemp seed.

Ingredients:
Whole and ground flax seeds, sesame seeds, agave syrup, crisp brown rice, brown rice syrup, black currants, almonds, cranberries (cranberries, apple juice concentrate, sunflower oil), organic hemp protein powder, raspberry nuggets, organic cranberry flavour, organic raspberry flavour.

New Waterproof Backpack from Outdoor Research

2010-04-07T09:55:00.000-07:00

This ultralight and waterproof day sack has all the features needed for a fast and light summit push. Radio frequency welded seams and reinforced fabric on the bottom and pocket area provide maximum strength and waterproofness. A mesh pocket accommodates a hydration bladder and stretch cording and gear loops secure crampons and ice tools. Compression straps cinch your load down and breathable mesh shoulder straps combine to offer a comfortable fit for alpine climbing and peak bagging.

+ Ultralight, waterproof 70D nylon fabric
+ 420D nylon fabric for durable, reinforcement on bottom and around pocket
+ Radio frequency welded seams for highly durable waterproof seals
+ Roll-top waterproof closure; durable buckle secures roll top
+ Mesh back pocket with elastic stretch cording secures loose items and doubles as hydration sleeve
+ Two compression straps
+ Spacermesh shoulder straps are supportive and breathable
+ Dual ice axe loops with shockcord ice axe keepers
+ Dimensions - Rolled: 24" x 11" x 8" / 61cm x 28cm x 20cm
+ Volume: 2075 cu. in / 34 L

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Training Trip: Mt. Rohr & Wendy Thompson Hut April 1- 3, 2010

2010-04-06T12:29:00.001-07:00

Mount Rohr

Mount Rohr is located in the Marriott Basin with some very good powder when in season. If you want to sleep in warmth, comfort and style, and carry less, the Wendy Thompson Hut is nearby but does require a fee. Contact the Alpine Club of Canada regarding the use and a key.

Rohr is usually done as a daytrip from the Duffey Lake road year round. In winter, good visibility and stability are needed to make the most of the excellent alpine skiing on the north side of the peak.

Wendy Thompson Hut

The Wendy Thompson hut is run by the ACC Whistler section and is located in Marriott Basin on the north side of Duffey Lake Road. There is a fee and reservation system in place. The hut officially sleeps 16.

Gear and Food tested:
Ruth's Hemp Foods (Power bars & Chia Goodness Breakfasts)
Along the ski route I had several flex bars in my pocket but the tastiest one I had when we trashed into our tents after difficult day. Guys started cooking but I was still laying down in my bag trying to recover. As soon as I finished the bar I felt better and joined them outside. I love Ruth's bars because they are so nutritional.

Lowe Alpine TFX 10 Backpack
This time my pack was heavy! I packed so much stuff inside part to test how TFX10 will carry, part to eat better on this trip. I was very happy at the end of this trip. I finally got comfortable extremely large volume pack which met all my requirements. My Lowe Alpine TFX10 will shine on Logan.
Third day of this trip we left tents and excessive gear in them to ski tour to Wendy Thompson Hut. I tightened straps, removed lid and got very comfortable (almost 60 lit size) pack on my back.

NEMO Equipment Tenshi tent
I still struggle to put up my Tenshi tent by myself and Brad always help me. It's understandable since this was my second time to use it. Two of us put up the tent in less than 5 minutes, including snow stakes and guy lines. I tried after the trip and now I figure out little trick how to set up my tent. Also, with open vents we had minimal condensation overnight in this highly humid West Coast ski conditions. Amazing!

Outdoor Research will be documenting Chad Kellogg's Mt. Everest Solo Speed Climb

2010-03-30T09:10:00.000-07:00

Outdoor Research, manufacturer of functional solutions for human powered adventure, will be documenting in real time the ultimate human powered adventure: Chad Kellogg’s attempt to speed ascend 29,029-foot Mt. Everest, without oxygen or sherpas - a feat that has never been done.

Outdoor Research has sponsored the 38-year-old American climber on this expedition, as well as his expedition to summit the South Face of Argentina’s Aconcagua (22,841 feet) in December 2009, which served as part of his two and a half years of training for his speed climb of Everest.

Climbing enthusiasts can follow the steep step-by-step progress of his journey in an extensive series called Chad Kellogg: The Everest Quest on Outdoor Research’s Verticulture. Fitz Cahall of the Dirtbag Diaries and the web series The Season, interviewed Chad a week before his departure in a compelling audio series. The series chronicles the inspiration behind his goal and the training he has gone through to prepare as well as his meticulous plans for the summit attempt. The first audio interview was posted today.

Other future VertiCulture content includes:

• “Suffer Machine” film trailer. A film made with climber and environmentalist Brent Bishop is in the works about the expedition.
• Weekly written and photo updates from Everest before and after his summit attempt via satellite phone.
• SPOT tracker updates during his summit bid in early May to calculate the speed of his ascent.
• Upon his return, a final interview with Fitz for to wrap-up the journey.

Verticulture is where outdoor adventurists can find fuel for their passions through inspiring stories, informative articles, and a calendar of outdoor events from the Outdoor Research community of employees, product testers and ambassadors.

“It’s going to be challenging. It’s going to be pushing beyond my physical limits,” said Kellogg, nicknamed Suffer Machine, who takes off from Seattle to Kathmandu today. “The most important thing is to complete it and not die.”

Kellogg is no stranger to suffering. In 2007, his wife Lara-Karena Kellogg was killed in a climbing accident on Mt. Wake in the Ruth Gorge in Alaska. He was also diagnosed with colon cancer later that same year.

“After Lara’s death, I had two choices: to quit or to find the aspect that drives you and keep going for it,” he said in an interview. “Now is all you have. You have to make the most of it.”

The Mt. Everest series follows two articles currently posted on VertiCulture detailing the challenges he encountered on Aconcagua, the highest peak in The Americas. During this expedition, Chad soloed nearly 10,000-feet in mixed conditions and forged a new route up the South Face. This route took 42 hours to complete, covering more than 6561 feet of new terrain in the process.

“Just like Outdoor Research, Chad calls Seattle home. He’s been a member of the OR community and a great friend of mine since 2004,” said Dan Nordstrom, president and CEO of Outdoor Research. “We are in awe of his accomplishments and look forward to documenting his newest and most ambitious adventure climbing Everest.”

About Outdoor Research
Based in Seattle WA, Outdoor Research designs and manufactures functional solutions for human powered adventure. Outdoor Research offers technically innovative and superior Apparel, Headwear, Handwear, Gaiters, Storage and Shelter Systems. Product testing and high-quality construction is backed up with OR’s Infinite Guarantee®. Outdoor Research enthusiastically supports the outstanding conservation, access, and educational efforts of a variety of organizations and encourages our customers to do the same.

Outdoor Research - Designed by Adventure®.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Forty Below® Purple Haze™ Overboot

2010-03-28T10:57:00.000-07:00

Key Features:
Completely stretchy to fit a wide range of boot types.
Stretchy and easy to put on in the cold.
Fits climbing, ski-mountaineering, telemark, and snowboard boots.
Easy to repair.

The Forty Below® Purple Haze™ overboot is a completely stretchy insulated boot cover that is easy to put on boots. A favorite insulated boot cover choice for use on Denali, Himalayas, and Polar expeditions.

Patterned to fit double plastic mountaineering boots, plus ski-mountaineering, telemark, and snowboard boots. It is a very unique overboot in that it can stretch to fit easily over many of the large shell and cuffs of ski-mountaineering, telemark, and the large volume “combi-boots” such as those from Millet, La Sportiva, etc. The Forty Below® Purple Haze™ model uses a special nylon covered, 4.7 mm stretchy neoprene closed cell foam insulation, with 2 layers of heat reflecting Titanium, which goes completely around and under the boot, with no gaps in the insulation.

The insulation panels are glued together, and also stitched on the inside and outside surface, with no sewn through seams. They fit trim to the boot, and are not bulky. They fit with a wide range of crampon binding styles such as “step-in”, “new-matic”, and “strap-on” crampon bindings, as well as wire toe ski mountaineering bindings. The toe and heel area have small triangular shape panels made of a slightly thinner neoprene insulation that allows for many wire toe bails and flip lever heels to simply compress the insulation and rest on the toe and heel groove of the boot.

The toe, heel, and lower side area of the overboots have a thin rubber paint applied to add abrasion resistance and help protect the stitching. The closure is in the front using a large size YKK® HEAVY DUTY zipper, with a flap underneath to help keep snow out.

One of the great features of Forty Below® overboots is that they are easy to repair!

This is especially helpful, as crampons and rugged terrain are so hard on everything they come in contact with. Repairing is easily done by simply gluing the poke holes together, using glues such as those for repairing neoprene fishing waders, wetsuits, like AquaSeal from McNett, etc.

For repairs on the mountain, use the Forty Below® Repair Patches, which are a special sticky and stretchy tape that works great for repairs during a trip (one is included with the overboot). SIZES: XS, S, M, L, XL. To fit from ladies 6 to mens 16. Color: Black. Weight: 24 oz. per pair size Large.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Supporter: GoLite

2010-03-22T16:39:00.000-07:00

Values
Therefore I GoLite. This is our motto. This is what drives us. Less is more. Less is liberation. Less is our passion. But we didn’t invent this philosophy. You did. You want to get away from all the stuff—the blaring music, the gadgets, the never-ending load of work and the glut of more, more, more. So you go light. You head out on the trail, because you want to experience nature on its own terms. You value adventure over advertising. Memories over souvenirs. You don’t want to clog the planet with more stuff. You just want to have pure, simple, heart-pounding fun. Therefore you GoLite.

Innovate
We led the fast and light revolution and refined how people experience nature by thinking differently. Not just about weight, but about how outdoor gear is designed and built. Today, we develop simple, beautiful, high performance gear that’s light on the planet. GoLite is a philosophy of using just what is needed. It’s about being light, but not fragile. Simple, but not dumb. Our designs allow you to forget about your gear and live in the experience.

Sustain
We believe everyone is responsible for saving the planet and we will be part of the answer. And as far as we’re concerned, the best place to start is by using less. By their very nature, our products have a smaller impact on the environment because they utilize fewer materials. But that alone is not enough. We continuously search for opportunities throughout our products’ lifecycles and in our company operations to minimize our environmental footprint and protect our planet, without compromising performance. Simply put, we design with sustainable principles, while making sure our products perform on the trail.

Inspire
We know nature has the power to make us all happier. It’s the joy of a long run before everyone else wakes up, watching the sunrise after a mile of killer switchbacks and fi nishing with bagels, coffee and good friends. Or a hike after work that culminates at happy hour. Whatever it is, it’s that moment of aerobic-induced clarity that makes every day better. This experience is not limited to exotic locations and bagging the highest peaks. Nature is everyday. It’s all around us, outside our front doors and in our backyards. GoLite is about discovering nature in unexpected, everyday places.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Training Trip: Garibaldi Neve Traverse

2010-03-22T11:25:00.001-07:00

Zoran skinning up from Ring Creek (Garibaldi Provincial Park, BC Canada)
Photo: Courtesy of Joel Montane

Total Ascent: 2729m
Total Descent: 3049m
Calculated Length: 33km

Info below is from TrailPeak web site:

The Garibaldi Neve traverse crosses some spectacular alpine scenery.
It is usually done as a ski traverse with 2 or 3 travel days. The 3 day variation can be done as a hut to hut traverse, staying at the Elfin Lakes Shelter and then at the Burton Hut or the Sentinel Bay Glaciology Huts. The terrain is relatively easy for skiing but the route finding challenges and remoteness make this an advanced trip.

When To Go

The traverse is best done in winter or early spring when Garibaldi Lake is frozen. If the lake is not frozen you will need to circumnavigate the lake which involves some bushwacking. Going around the lake from Sentinal Bay is easiest by following the Warren Glacier past the Table and climbing over Clinker Peak to reach trails on the other side.

Route Description

Diamond Head parking lot to Elfin Lakes Hut

This section represents 11km of easy trail. From the Diamond Head parking lot follow the old jeep road through many switchbacks to the Diamond Head day use shelter (1450m). Beyond this point the trail to Elfin Lakes is marked with wands in the winter. Follow them through open meadows to the top of Paul ridge (1700m). If you have kick wax for your skis you can now take your skins off. If you don't have kick wax, leave them on as there are still a number of short uphills to negotiate before reaching Elfin Lakes Shelter (1550m).

This section is straight forward enough to do in bad weather or in the dark. It should take a total of about 3-4 hours.

Elfin Lakes to Garibaldi Lake

From the Elfin Lake hut ski northward, contouring for about 2km (approxmately following the summer trial and an old jeep road). Pass below some avalanche paths before dropping down to Ring Creek. Cross Ring Creek and continue north to the Garibaldi Glacier on the west side of the Opal Cone. Climb the glacier to the main part of the Garibaldi Neve and head NNW past the tent and over a 2178m shoulder. Don't climb too high towards The Tent, as you will just have to come right back down to avoid crevasses around the corner. The section between the Tent and the Sharkfin is the most heavily crevassed part of the trip, so be especially careful if visibility is marginal. The Sharkfin (a rocky ridge the just precariously up out of the glacier) is passed on it's east side. The position of the Sharkfin is incorrect on NTS maps. It's actual position is further east, and lower down than shown. Next ski through a broad pass west of Glacier Pikes to reach the Sentinel Glacier, which is a straightforward descent to Garibaldi Lake. This section should take a full day to complete for an average party. Consider camping up high and climbing Mt Garibaldi.

Once at Garibaldi lake (1450m) at the base of Sentinel Glacier, you have a couple options : you can stay in the small Sentinel Bay Glaciology Huts or head onto the lake and go north to the Burton Hut which is much more spacious (though not nearly as spacious as the Elfin Lakes shelter). Yet a third option is to cross the 6km lake and stay at the day use shelters at the Battleship Lake Campground, which aren't well suited to sleeping but are quite spacious.

Garibaldi Lake to Rubble Creek Parking Lot

If you haven't already done so, cross the lake to its north-western extremity and head along the trails past Barrier lake to the junction with the Taylor Meadows trail (3km). Another 6km brings you down to the parking lot. The lower portion of this trail is often quite dry even in mid-winter and may have to be walked.

Gear tested on this trip:

Dynafit Zzero4 AT Ski Boots
Intuition Liners
LEKI Carbon Ski Poles
NEMO Tenshi Tent
Mammut Trion 50
Petzl e-LITE Headlamp
Coldproof Base Layer
Outdoor Research Contour Windshirt
ColdAvenger Face Mask
Lowepro Outback 100

Nahanni Discussion

2010-03-18T15:31:00.000-07:00

The Cirque of the Unclimbables in the Northwest Territory is an internationally renowned climbing destination. It and other climbing areas are now included in Nahanni National Park Reserve. Until March 31, Parks Canada is inviting all climbers to provide thoughts and ideas on how climbing should be managed in the Park.

Nahanni Discussion

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Sponsor: Pacific Outdoor Equipment

2010-03-17T16:11:00.000-07:00

About Pacific Outdoor Equipment

If you are new to our brand, allow us to introduce ourselves and explain that we are a tight knit team of dedicated folks living in the mountain town of Bozeman, Montana USA.

Initially, Pacific Outdoor Equipment is a company that’s hard for most folks to describe but our mission is really quite simple. We’re not an environmental company, but we are innovators that care about the environment. We aren’t a sewing factory but we make great fabric based outdoor gear. We aren’t a company that’s so big as to forget about all the customers and friends who have helped make us successful — because chances are, we’ll see you on the trail or on the rivers.

With an eye on the big blue planet, we build innovative gear from welded fabrics for human powered sports and our motivations continue to be drilled down to 4 points on our companies compass: Good gear = Less waste. If it isn’t fun, why do it? Do no harm by basing decisions on a code of integrity and responsibility. And, innovate relentlessly.

We take this compass into the mountains and on the rivers around our town where we established our operation in this beautiful place to use, test and develop gear in real time and real conditions. This allows the products to evolve close to their origins. Of course we care about what our accountant says, but we know that true success is measured in the number of nights our customers spend in the outdoors.

This year has seen us expanding the size of our global family which now reaches across 6 continents and we are all looking forward to working with our new partners in the future and sharing in their addiction to the outdoors industry we work in.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Outdoor Research Alpine Hat

2010-03-17T02:47:00.000-07:00

This classic, two-dimensional design fits close to your head on blustery alpine days. Windproof fleece gives it strong performance in cold, gusty conditions. A contoured ear band wraps the back of your head and ears. + WINDSTOPPER® Technical Fleece + Two-panel crown construction + Contoured ear band + Elastane trim For Cool and Windy Conditions Offering more warmth and comfort than non-windproof fleece. Effective as a mid-layer or outer layer in cool and windy conditions. WINDSTOPPER® Technical Fleece allows less bulk by combining total windproofness and maximum breathability in one garment.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Dynafit Mustagh Ata Superlight Skis

2010-03-12T20:41:00.000-08:00

Length: 169 cm
Side cut: 116-86-109
Radius: 23.7/18.2 m
Weight: 1255 g (+/-30g)

Core Construction:
Isocore Paulownia ultra-light wood
Laminate:
Biaxial prepreg in lower and upper layer with fiber-glass and carbon reinforcement
Running Surface:
Sintered graphite coatings - resistant, with improved gliding characteristics and better wax absorption

The Mustagh Ata Superlight represents the next phase of development for the successful Mustagh Ata model. It is the lightest ski in its class. It is equipped with patented Dynafit Insert technology and sports a modern waist curve. Its 88 mm width at mid-ski and its balanced core structure provide maximum skiing pleasure under all snow conditions. The ski adds very little weight when climbing, making it great for long high mountain tours and expeditions.

I will have Dynafit Vertical ST bindings on Mustagh Ara Superlight skis.

Schoeller and Mammut Partner at Red Rocks Rendezvous to support The Access Fund

2010-03-12T12:53:00.000-08:00

Schoeller Textil AG and Mammut collaborate to support The Access Fund at Red Rocks Rendezvous presented by Mountain Gear.

Long time collaborators in some of the world’s finest mountain apparel, Schoeller and Mammut are partnering at the seventh annual Red Rocks Rendezvous in Las Vegas, Nevada to support the Access Fund. At the event, which runs from March 19-21, stop by the Mammut tent to purchase a limited edition pint glass. All proceeds go directly to the Access Fund.

Schoeller and Mammut will also be raffling various products during the event.

“As a long-standing partner of the Access Fund, we like to support climbers and climbing access whenever possible,” said Mike Welch, Sales and Marketing Director for Mammut Sports Group USA. “This is just one way we can give back to the climbing community, at an event that is truly representative of the celebration of the sport.”

“Schoeller and Mammut have worked together for many years creating performance apparel that has been loved by all kinds of climbers,” says Shannon Walton of Schoeller Textil AG. “It is a pleasure to work together now at climbing events to support the organization that advocates for climbers and keeps access open to the very places that feed our souls and provide inspiration.”

About the Access Fund
Since 1991, the Access Fund is the national advocacy organization that keeps climbing areas open and conserves the climbing environment. The Access Fund supports and represents over 2.3 million climbers nationwide in all forms of climbing: rock climbing, ice climbing, mountaineering, and bouldering. Five core programs support the mission on national and local levels: climbing management policy, stewardship and conservation, local support and mobilization, land acquisition and protection, and education. For more information visit www.accessfund.org.

About Mammut Sports Group
Based in Switzerland, Mammut is a leading manufacturer of all-season alpine gear, apparel, and footwear. For more information on all Mammut Sports Group apparel, gear, athletes, and brands, visit Mammut USA.

About Schoeller Textil
Schoeller Textil U.S.A. is a subsidiary of Schoeller Textil AG, based in Sevelen, Switzerland specializing in innovative fabrics and technologies. The numerous awards and recognition that Schoeller has received are a testament to the continued ingenuity that began with Schoeller's inception in 1868. The company's textiles and finishing technologies are environmentally sound and meet the bluesign® standard, the most stringent standard for safe and sustainable textile production. For more information visit Schoeller-Textiles.

NEMO Donates Over $30,000 in Tents, Sleeping Pads to Haiti

2010-03-11T16:40:00.000-08:00

NEMO Equipment, Inc., manufacturer of AirSupported™ and Extreme Conditions Tents™, sleeping pads and backcountry accessories, has donated over $30,000 in tents and sleeping pads to Haiti relief efforts. Teaming up with Mark Richey Woodworking, a local Newburyport, MA business, NEMO was able to deliver 50 brand new Nano OZ tents, footprints and Removable Insulated Floors, as well as a few previously loved tents from its employees. The tents joined an already scheduled shipment heading to Florida and on to Haiti.

“To date we have collected over 500 tents and 700 sleeping bags, with yet another shipment ready to go. We were thrilled when NEMO offered to add 50 brand new tents and insulated floors to our shipment. Up until now, we had been gathering donations from many individuals and small groups and hadn’t had one of this size. We have also had a tremendous amount of help from Fed Ex and other local companies who have donated transportation for our deliveries as well as boxes for packaging. ” said Mark Richey, President of Mark Richey Woodworking.

Richey added, “I have volunteered in Haiti since the earthquake through Partners in Health, who have been in Haiti for many years, and The Boston Foundation. Both organizations have allowed us to be the collection point for their Haiti Relief drives. It is through them that we have a location in Florida to deliver the donations and the means to get them from Florida to Haiti. I know the demand is high – every tent will be used.”

“We are excited to be able to donate these much needed shelters and Removable Insulated Floors® to the people of Haiti. They have endured so much and hopefully we’ll be giving at least a few families one less thing to worry about with a temporary shelter and soft ground to lie on,” said Cam Brensinger, NEMO president and founder.

In 2010, NEMO has expanded its product line from 12 to 20 tents, along with 4 sleeping pads, a backcountry pillow and accessories. NEMO was founded in 2002 by Cam Brensinger with the commitment to bringing the highest level of design and engineering to the world of outdoor adventure sports. Besides AirSupported Technology®, NEMO has patents pending for its lightweight pumps, washable floor liners, condensation curtains and many more features and accessories which add functionality and comfort to its shelters. NEMO tents can be found at local, national and international retailers, including Eastern Mountain Sports, REI, and Moosejaw.

Glacier Rescue Training: Mt. Seymour, Saturday March 6

2010-03-11T13:02:00.001-08:00

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Lowepro Outback 100

2010-03-08T22:30:00.000-08:00

For photographers who carry their gear to the limits—on foot, bike, hike or on assignment—Outback modular beltpacks provide protection and freedom of movement.

Unzip the fast-access lid and immediately “work out of the bag” plus grab memory cards from the built-in pockets. Each of the three beltpack models come with two interchangeable lens/accessory cases attached by SlipLock™ loops and secured with sturdy, yet lightweight compression straps. Gear up multiple ways by adding or subtracting cases.

Outback 100 also includes: webbing loops on front to attach additional pouches or cases via a hook or carabiner; and large, U-shaped zipper pulls and zipper tabs for extra leverage—even in wet or cold conditions.

Capacity:

DSLR with standard zoom lens attached; 2 extra lenses or flash; accessories

Size(Interior):

6.7W X 4.5D X 9.3H in./
17 X 11.5 X 23.5 cm

Size(Exterior):

14.6W X 6.9D X 9.3H in./
37 X 17.5 X 23.7 cm

Lens Case Size (Interior):

3.1DX 5.5H in./
8X 14 cm

Outer fabric:

600D Nylon PU, 210D Nylon PU, Nylon Webbing, Polypropylene Webbing, Velex PU

Interior Fabric:

210D Nylon PU, Velex PU, PE Foam, EVA Foam, Brushed Tricot, Nylon

Weight:

1lbs/0.5kg

Mt Logan Expedition Maintenance Kit: MSR XGK stove repair kit

2010-03-03T23:29:00.001-08:00

An extended trip far away from home is no place to remember you forgot to replace that worn-out O-ring. But it happens. Be prepared for anything with our Expedition Service kits. They provide comprehensive maintenance and repair solutions for your liquid-fuel stove and pump in places where failure is not an option.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Nemo Tenshi tent

2010-03-03T12:48:00.000-08:00

Alpine-style ascents require your gear to be as versatile as your abilities. Use Tenshi™ at base camp with all the comfortable features, and cache them as you move up the mountain. Start with a cavernous vestibule, a removable insulated floor, and a condensation curtain, and reach high camp with a 4 lb. shelter that fits on the smallest of ledges. Beefed up guy points, reinforced pole pockets, and DAC Featherlite poles make Tenshi™ all but indestructible. The recipient of several award, including "Editor's Choice" from Climbing, and "Best In Gear" from Rock and Ice, Tenshi™ is the clear choice for high altitude adventure.

> 4.0 lbs (1.8 kg)
> 28 sq ft (2.6 sq m)
> 10 sq ft (.93 sq m) Vestibule
> DAC Featherlite Poles

ROCK and ICE, 2007 Gear and Safety Guide
Best in Gear Award
"The Tenshi is a single-wall, two-person tent that boasts some really original and outstanding features, namely a condensation curtain and a removable insulated floor ... this fully featured tent is bomber."

CLIMBING, January 2006
Editor's Choice

Mike Marolt, Everest Ski Mountaineer
"We were stuck on Mustag Ata at both 17,000 feet and 20,000 feet in the worst conditions you can imagine. The wind was enough to shatter almost every other tent around, but our NEMOs barely shook."

Couloir, December 2006
"The Tenshi is in this tester's opinion, the best of the Bivy tents. It is extremely breathable, well ventilated, strong in high winds, and with the condensation curtain, almost condensation free. It is light enough for one and with the [removable] vestibule, comfortable for two. It has a small footprint and can be used in precarious perches."

Josh Wharton, Alpinist
"I spent about 25 nights in Tenshi, at times in some pretty nasty weather. The tent was great. The best single wall tent that I've used as a long term shelter. Excellent ventilation, held up to the wind, and never leaky."

Mt. Logan Expedition Travel Gear Pick: OR Arroyo Shirt

2010-02-25T16:14:00.001-08:00

After a legend-worthy day at the crag, hit up the pub to rest those weary tendons. This stylie button-up will transition from breathable, relaxed comfort while sending your project to ordering up a celebratory pint at the local watering hole.

+ Dri-release® woven 85% polyester/15% cotton fabric provides comfort and moisture management
+ Front snap closure
+ Chest pocket with hook and loop closure
+ Relaxed ft with straight hem

Optimer's Dri-release® fabrics

Optimer's Dri-release® fabrics use a patented blend of natural and synthetic fibers. The natural fibers absorb moisture by pulling it off the skin and into the fabric. Then synthetic fibers repel the moisture, forcing it through to the surface of the garment where it evaporates quickly as airflow moves across the fabric. Dri-release® moves sweat and moisture from the skin, through the fabric and releases it into the air faster than 100% cotton, and faster than many other performance fabrics.

Petzl ULTRAfest - Snowbird afterhours

2010-02-24T09:07:00.000-08:00

In late January, Petzl organized a special outing to demonstrate the power of the ULTRA headlamps, and how they can turn the night into day, opening up a whole new realm of pre-dawn and post-dusk possibilities.

Thanks to Snowbird Ski Resort and a crack team of ski patrollers, a group of skiers and riders equipped with ULTRA BELT ACCU 4 headlamps were able to carve turns long after the crowds left and the sun set behind the mountains.

Check out the video below to see how well the ULTRA illuminated the slopes, and allowed everyone to have a one-of-a-kind ski experience.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Power Stretch Full Zip Jacket

2010-02-20T23:03:00.000-08:00

Features

Flat Lock Construction
Cuff Nosewipe
Zippered Handwarmer Pockets - Soft Fabric to Warm Hands
Wind Flap Behind Front Zipper with Chin Guard

Polartec® Power Stretch® fabrics feature body-hugging 4-way stretch and are very breathable. They keep you dry when you sweat and provide warmth without weight. These are the most versatile outdoor and fitness apparel fabrics available today.

Polartec® Power Stretch® fabrics feature a proprietary construction with two unique surfaces: the durable nylon outer layer is wind- and abrasion-resistant; the soft inner layer pulls moisture away from your skin keeping you dry, warm and comfortable. The fabric also features compression stretch which can improve performance and reduces the chance of certain types of stop-go injuries. Polartec® Power Stretch® excels at handling the demands of the next-to-skin environment.

How does it work? Moisture and high relative humidity next to the skin cause discomfort. Polartec® Power Stretch® keeps the skin dry through three complementary mechanisms:
1) The fabric is highly breathable and does not restrict the movement of moisture vapor.
2) "Touch Points" on the fabric inner surface draw off the sweat. Sweat is wicked off the skin to the outside of the fabric, where it spreads rapidly for evaporation.
3) When the sweat reaches the outside of the fabric, it spreads out to many times its original surface area, enabling it to dry at least 2 times faster than cotton.

DayMen Photo Marketing is pleased to announce the arrival of the New Tokina AT-X 16.5-135 f/3.5-5.6 lens

2010-02-19T18:13:00.000-08:00

MARKHAM, ON – DayMen Photo Marketing has just announced the availability of a new Tokina DX lens with a very appealing focal-range: The Tokina AT-X 16.5 – 135mm DX Wide-Range lens.

With a maximum aperture of f/3.5-5.6, this AF lens is designed specifically for APS-C sized image sensors, or DX format. The lens has an equivalent 35mm focal-range of 25-200mm. This lens is well suited to scenic and travel photography.

The AT-X 16.5-135 DX’s optical design benefits from the latest advances in the industry. Three aspherical elements, one all glass precision-molded element and 2 compound elements yield high contrast. Additionally two Super-low Dispersion (SD) glass elements correct chromatic aberration. The AT-X 16.5-135 DX also incorporates a newly designed high-precision mechanical zoom cam system that minimizes play and eliminates zoom creep.

This lens is an addition to the current Tokina lens offering and does not replace any existing Tokina lenses.

Specifications
Focal Length: 16.5 - 135mm
Maximum Aperture: F/3.5-5.6
Minimum Aperture: F/22
Construction: 15 element in 9 groups.
Coatings: Multi-layer coating
Minimum Focus Distance: 19.7 in. (0.5m)
No. Aperture blades: 9
Filter Size: 77mm
Lens diameter: 3.46 in. (84mm)
Total length 3.1 in. (78mm)
Weight: 21.5oz. (610g)
Accessories: Star bayonet hood (BH777)

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Outdoor Research Peruvian Hat

2010-02-17T02:40:00.000-08:00

This classic hat protects your face with soft fleece earflaps. It combines windproof, all-mountain protection with soft fleece insulation. The chin cord will keep the earflaps tied overhead when the sun is shining.

+ WindStopper® Technical Fleece
+ Two-panel crown construction
+ Long earflaps with chin cord and cordlock
+ Elastane trim

WindStopper
For Cool and Windy Conditions
Offering more warmth and comfort than non-windproof fleece. Effective as a mid-layer or outer layer in cool and windy conditions. WINDSTOPPER® Technical Fleece allows less bulk by combining total windproofness and maximum breathability in one garment.

Marmot Spring Collection is here

2010-02-13T20:19:00.001-08:00

Biathlete Haley Johnson Gears Up for the Vancouver Olympics in TEKO®

2010-02-10T15:03:00.000-08:00

TEKO, the innovation leader in sustainable, high performance socks, is pleased to announce that biathlete Haley Johnson will be competing in the upcoming Vancouver Olympic Games in the socks of her choice, TEKO.

“We are thrilled to support Haley as she heads to the Olympic Games,” says Chip Coe, CEO of TEKO. “Haley is an incredible athlete who understands the importance of giving back to the community. We applaud her desire to bring environmental awareness and responsibility to the forefront of sports.”

Haley was born and raised in Lake Placid, NY where she still lives and trains with the United States Biathlon Team. She qualified for the US Olympic Team by skiing her career-best World Cup Biathlon Finish in the 15k individual this past December. TEKO has sponsored Haley for the past six years on her road to the Olympics.

“TEKO’s sponsorship has allowed me to stay focused on high quality training and performances,” said Haley. “Being associated with an environmentally sustainable company such as TEKO has also given me a greater sense of responsibility as an athlete to do my part to improve our planet.”

Haley will be competing in tekoMERINO Ski Light, a best selling style in the company’s women’s Wintersport Collection. The Wintersport Collection is made of naturally-wicking organic tekoMERINO wool and is designed for high performance and comfort with features such as TEKO’s signature seamless toe, arch band for support and y-heel gore for articulated fit.

In addition to biathlete Haley Johnson, look for USA Luge competing in TEKO at the upcoming Winter Games.

About TEKO:

TEKO Socks: Best Socks ON the Planet, Best Socks FOR the Planet. Based in Boulder, CO, TEKO was founded on the belief that making high-performance outdoor products doesn’t have to have a heavy impact on our environment. Using only high-performance fibers and sustainable manufacturing processes, TEKO creates performance socks that are safer for the environment. From the raw materials, all the way down to the recycled paper packaging, TEKO’s product line features environmentally sound materials, such as organic tekoMERINO™ wool and tekoPOLY™ recycled polyester. TEKO buys wind energy credits to ensure that 100% of the electricity used in manufacturing and operations is put back onto the energy grid from clean, sustainable American Wind. TEKO is unique in that its eco-friendly commitment extends to its entire product line, supply chain, and daily business practices.

Outdoor Research Alti Mitts Ad

2010-02-09T10:08:00.000-08:00

These altitude-oriented mitts provide warmth while keeping weight and bulk to a minimum. The waterproof shells have thick fleece on the palms and synthetic insulation on the backs and the removable liners have the same fleece and loft combination.

The fleece provides crush resistant warmth and a secure grip, while the synthetic insulation offers compressible warmth. Leather palms give you a solid connection with your gear in all conditions.

TrailSpace.com Covers NEMO Story

2010-02-05T09:24:00.000-08:00

Trailspace.com, a leading industry website featuring gear reviews, forums, and other relevant info on the outdoors, has published a story about NEMO. The article covers Cam Brensinger's background, how he got the idea to start NEMO and major events in NEMO's history. It's a great article that sums up NEMO's major accomplishments and design philosophy.

"I care about weight, but really only as one of a set of features that should improve a customer's experience in the outdoors. It's part of a matrix of decisions that include some antagonistic things like durability and usability...Design philosophy-wise I feel like the ultimate solution is always the simplest."

To read the full story, click here.

Cascade Designs, Inc. Donates Equipment to Haiti Earthquake Relief Efforts through Operation USA

2010-02-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

Cascade Designs, the Seattle-based industry leader in the design and manufacture of premier outdoor equipment, has donated over $100,000 USD retail value worth of Therm-a-Rest® mattresses, MSR® group shelters and Platypus® collapsible water reservoirs to Operation USA in support of their aid to people affected by the catastrophic earthquake in Haiti.

The donated supplies are part of numerous shipments to Haiti from the Operation USA warehouse in Wilmington, CA. Quickly after the earthquake, United Airlines committed to helping the people of Haiti with a series of donated air shipments to Port-au-Prince. The shipments included Operation USA donated medical supplies, mattresses, shelter and water storage. An additional delivery is currently being arranged for shipment in the coming weeks.

Operation USA works closely with partners on the ground in Haiti to get through the challenging conditions to get supplies where they are needed most. These partners include L’Athletique d’Hait, Hands and Feet Project, International Medical Corps, Partners in Health and St. Damien’s Pediatric Hospital/St. Luke’s Schools.

“The situation in Haiti is tragic, and we feel compelled to help, knowing the products we make can make a huge difference to people trying to survive in such devastation,” said Joe Mc Swiney, President of Cascade Designs. “We have great confidence in the effectiveness and ability of Operation USA to get these supplies to where they are needed most.”

In the past Cascade Designs has worked with Operation USA to support relief efforts for the Southeast Asian Tsunami, Hurricane Katrina, the Pakistan Earthquake, California Wildfires and most recently the flooding in the Philippines, Indonesia and Samoa.

HOW TO HELP:
Donate online at www.opusa.org, by phone at 1.800.678.7255 or, by check made out to Operation USA, 3617 Hayden Ave, Suite A, Culver City, CA 90232. Text “AID” to 50555 and donate $10 to OpUSA’s Haiti relief efforts. Air miles can also be donated to Operation USA through United Airlines Charity Miles program at www.united.com. Corporate donations of bulk quantities of disaster-appropriate supplies are also being requested.

About Cascade Designs, Inc.
For over thirty-five years, Seattle-based Cascade Designs, Inc., has led the outdoor industry in designing innovative, useful and long-lasting equipment, manufacturing the majority of products in their Seattle, U.S.A. and Cork, Ireland facilities. From the original self-inflating Therm-a-Rest®camping mattress to the first multi-fuel stove, Cascade Designs has developed products that explorers, adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts and weekend campers can rely on to deliver optimum performance in the outdoors through exceptional engineering and quality.

Cascade Designs’s premium outdoor brands include: Therm-a-Rest®, the global leader in premium outdoor comfort; MSR®, the ultimate in high performance outdoor gear; Platypus®, specialist in modular hydration solutions for optimum performance; SealLine®, the outdoor leader in all-purpose, portable gear protection; and Tracks®, lightweight walking staffs and trekking poles. Visit www.cascadedesigns.com or call 1-800-531-9531 for more information.

About Operation USA
Operation USA is an international relief agency that helps communities at home and abroad overcome the effects of disasters, disease and endemic poverty by providing privately-funded relief, reconstruction and development aid. Since 1979, the Los Angeles-based Operation USA has worked in over 99 countries, delivering over $350 million for relief and development projects.

Charity Navigator, America’s premier charity evaluator, has given Operation USA its highest 4-star rating for six consecutive years. And in 2008, named OpUSA the “#1 Exclusively Privately Funded Charity”.

Learn more and make secure donations at www.opusa.org.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: TFX EXPEDITION 75:95

2010-02-02T12:31:00.000-08:00

The TFX range was first updated back in 2007, but it's about to be refined even further. The most obvious upgrade is the the back system. TFX packs carry well, but were relatively heavy. For 2010 however, Lowe has slashed weight by 20-30%. Everything's been fine tuned with wastage reduced and excess fat slashed.

There are three back systems in the range, the top-end version is the TFX10. It's aimed at carrying big loads in comfort - think 55-70lb - has a more obvious, but simple and robust adjustable back system, plus 'adaptive fit' hip-belt and shoulder straps to automatically accommodate a wide range of body shapes.

The lumbar pad uses something Lowe Alpine calls 'Rebound Foam' which recovers well from being compressed and gives better stability, comfort and load transfer.

Climbing Magazine Tech Tip - Alpine - The ultimate alpine kitchen

2010-01-29T14:35:00.000-08:00

By Majka Burhardt Illustrations by Mike Clelland

Cooking is the art of necessity in the alpine world.

Given the choice, I’d rather have linguine with sun-dried tomatoes, clams, and parmesan cheese than ramen noodles any day, especially when I’m fueling up for a big climb. Cooking in the alpine world, however, can be a chore, and as a result, many backcountry feasts are about convenience, rather than gourmet tastes.

Whether you’re winter camping, or out on an extended expedition with a basecamp, going the extra mile when setting up your alpine kitchen might just inspire you to create a culinary masterpiece, rather than just eating ramen ... again.

The plush life
If you’re establishing a stocked basecamp and/or climbing with a large group, setting up a central kitchen can make cooking easier. Floorless shelters (e.g., the Black Diamond Megamid, or the Mountain Hardwear Kiva) work great for kitchens, and provide cover while still allowing you to stand up — luxuries that aren’t easily accomplished inside a tent.

Dig a hole
Digging out a five-foot-deep “basement” before setting up your floorless shelter optimizes your cooking and living space.

Hint: the hole should be one foot narrower than the perimeter of your floorless shelter. After digging your basement, the next step is to build a countertop that will support your floorless shelter’s telescoping pole.

This is the crux of your kitchen, and a little planning goes a long way. I like my countertop to be three feet tall, two feet wide, and three feet long. If you start the countertop in the center of the kitchen and extend it lengthwise to the back of the pit (the side opposite the door), you’ll have one end for the pole and the rest as workspace.

Make sure you build the countertop out of work-hardened (compacted) snow, a must for creating a solid foundation for your pole, and a sturdy countertop space that can accommodate multiple stoves.

Protect the countertop
Once you’ve dug the hole, you’re ready to set up the tent. A small piece of plye covered with duct tape. This seals the board, preventing sharp splinters or jagged edges from ripping your floorless shelter when it’s stuffed in the same storage sack.

Comfort
It’s easy to set up your kitchen with options for sitting or standing. Choose two sides of your basement to build benches. These benches should be two and a half feet higher than the bottom of your basement, to allow for comfortable seating positions. Leave the other two sides for dedicated standing/changing room. At high altitude, even the highest-tech boots won’t keep your feet from freezing, but a small (four-foot-by-four-foot) ensolite mat can double as a floor mat or a seat for your custom bench — either way, you have great insulation between yourself and the glacier.

Stove boards
A simple piece of 12-inch-by-24-inch plywood works great as a stove board. (If you’re carrying a sled, cut your stove board to fit inside your rig.) Though you probably won’t lug it up to higher camps, for basecamp cooking it makes a world of difference. I often use this board to pair up two stoves underneath one pot to quickly melt snow.

The efficiency kitchen
If cooking in the vestibule is your style, your shovel can make for a better all-around experience. Dig a two-foot-deep pit that’s inset from the perimeter of your vestibule by six inches. This will allow you to sit comfortably with your feet hanging into the pit — perfect for cooking and boot removal. (If you have the option, choose the larger of your vestibules for your kitchen.) If you’re using a stove board, keep your vestibule pit narrow enough so that the board can bridge the gap. This also gives you extra storage space underneath for food and boots.

Ventilation
No matter which kitchen setup you choose, ventilation is critical to your health. Keep the doors on your floorless shelter or vestibule open when you cook. Cross ventilation is the best; when possible, open the back door, or turn up a corner of your floorless shelter.

In addition to her work as a contributing editor for Climbing, Majka Burhardt is a guide for the Colorado Mountain School, and is known for her culinary masterpieces both in and out of the mountains.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Supporter: Scarpa

2010-01-27T13:50:00.001-08:00

SCARPA: nearly 70 years of innovation, tradition

Innovation and tradition share equally deep roots at SCARPA, which today remains a family owned company with its headquarters and performance footwear manufacturing facilities in the same regions of northern Italy where it got its start in 1938.

Founded Asolo, in the Montebelluna region, an area long known for its quality, handcrafted footwear, SCARPA’s initial mission was to bring together all the best shoemakers in Asolo area toward the goal of producing the best footwear anywhere. SCARPA stands for Società Calzaturiera Asolana Riunita Pedemontana Anonima, which means Associated Shoe Manufacturing Company of the Asolo Mountain Area.

It was immersed in this tradition of craftsmanship and heritage that Luigi Parisotto, who would eventually purchase the company with his brothers and grow it into a family enterprise, first began learning the art of making fine footwear in the Asolo area. Parisotto began learning his craft at age 11 in 1940 and went to work for SCARPA in 1942.

From the beginning, Parisotto loved the process of building handcrafted footwear, and in the early 1950s ran his own shoe-manufacturing business, S. Giorgio, with his brothers, turning out between four and 15 pairs of handmade shoes a day. These were sold to local farmers who sought out shoes that were both comfortable and indestructible.

In 1956, Parisotto and three of his brothers, with the assistance of their family, pulled together enough money to make an offer on SCARPA. It was accepted and the business quickly grew under their leadership to encompass 17 expert shoemakers, and expanded during these early years to produce 50 to 60 pairs a day. In the late 1950s, word about SCARPA’s quality began to spread more widely outside the Montebelluna region and attract clientele from many other parts of northern Italy.

Around this time, mountain sports also began having a strong influence on SCARPA footwear. The company was among the first to recognize the needs of northern Italy’s rapidly developing mountaineering and climbing culture, and to develop footwear with features dedicated to those pursuits. Those features, along with the brand’s legendary durability and fit, led to many of Italy’s early mountaineers using SCARPA shoes. It also led to increased interest in SCARPA products outside Italy. In 1965, an Italian-American living in Boston began importing SCARPA footwear, making it the first manufacturer from the Asolo region to export to the USA

SCARPA continued to innovate in the 1970s, developing the popular Rally boot for alpine skiing and pioneering an early high-altitude plastic boot for mountaineering, first called the Grinta and later the Vega. That boot was used by many of the top climbers and explorers of the day in the Himalayas and Antarctic, and it was also adopted by the Italian, U.S., French, Spanish and other militaries for use by troops in extreme conditions.

That pioneering spirit has continued at SCARPA. The company has many firsts to its name, including being the first to build Gore-Tex into a boot and the first to develop the plastic telemark skiing boot, its groundbreaking Terminator boot line, which was released in the 1990s. That development quickly overtook the telemark-skiing world, and helped foster worldwide brand awareness of SCARPA’s leadership in technical mountain footwear beyond the mountaineering culture.

Over the years, a new generation of the family has become involved in the business, Sandro, Piero, Davide, Cristina and Andrea Parisotto. They continue to lead the company as it produces the finest footwear for hiking and trekking, climbing, skiing and other outdoor pursuits, and as it continues growth around the world.

On the eve of the 50-year anniversary of the Parisotto family owning SCARPA, they were instrumental in 2005 in setting up a North American headquarters for SCARPA, headed by veterans of the outdoor industry in North America. This followed many decades of the SCARPA brand being handled by distributors in the U.S. and Canada.

Working with the Parisottos, the Boulder, Colo., office now directs SCARPA product development for the U.S. and Canada and oversees sales and marketing in North America, adhering to the company’s longtime mission statement: “Create first-class mountain footwear, perfect in every detail, with technological and innovative solutions, both substantial and effective, respecting the highest quality standards.”
For more information please visit Scarpa.

Petzl Core Power Source

2010-01-27T08:51:00.000-08:00

Most outdoor gear related businesses have some kind of a green theme.

Petzl is known for its head lamps and climbing equipment. It may seem hard to figure out a way to green with those options, but Petzl's Core rechargeable batteries fit the bill. The new system will take the place of 900 alkaline batteries. That is 900 less batteries you have to buy and 900 less that will end in the landfill.

The Core will work with existing Petzl models and comes with several options for charging. You can use a USB cord and your laptop or PC, a cigarette lighter, a standard electric outlet and even a solar charger.

Petzl, based in Clearfield, also found a way to make the Core 5 grams lighter than alkaline batteries. The company has also developed software that will allow you to set the light settings based on personal preferences.

The Core will be out in August and will cost $40.

Backpacker Magazine Gear Review: Petzl Summit Ice Axe

2010-01-26T18:17:00.000-08:00

Gear Review: Petzl Summit Ice Axe

Gross a glacier or handle snow travel on big peaks with this versatile mountaineering axe.

by: Testers Alex Graham, Berne Broudy, Jonathan Dorn, Wright Hartman

Petzl Summit Axe Review

Lowe Alpine 2010

2010-01-25T09:13:00.000-08:00

Lowe Alpine 2010 Pack Catalog

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Lowe Alpine 2010 Calendar

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2010-2011 MSR® Snowshoe Line Unveiled With New Innovations

2010-01-21T11:14:00.000-08:00

Cascade Designs, Inc., the Seattle-based industry leader in the design and manufacture of premier outdoor equipment, today kicked off the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market by unveiling the 2010-2011 MSR Snowshoe line. The eight models in the line feature a variety of the best and newest technical features exclusive to MSR snowshoes.

“Our number one focus is always on providing meaningful and technical solutions to enhance the snowshoeing experience and encourage more people to get out on the snow,” said Chris Parkhurst, Division Director for Winter Products at Cascade Designs. “This mindset started with the pioneering design of modular flotation in 1995 and again with the paradigm-changing 360-degree traction frame in 2004, ultimately setting the bar for both. This year, we’ll change how people view efficiency on snowshoes.”

Axis™ Gait Efficiency Technology
The world’s first bilaterally adjustable snowshoe binding compensates for typical toe-in and toe-out variances in gait. With an easy, spring-loaded pin adjustment, the user can turn the binding up to four degrees left or right to match with their typical toe variance. The result is a natural, efficient stride for each unique user. Developed in conjunction with Katrina “Kit” Vogel, an Orthopedic Gait Specialist with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and a Master of Science degree specializing in Biomechanics, Axis Gait Efficiency Technology is featured in the bindings of the new Lightning™ Axis snowshoes.

SpeedLock™ Binding
The new SpeedLock Binding System makes snowshoes faster and easier than ever to put on. After adjusting the single, broad toe strap to fit, the user slides their foot in at an angle and straightens it to secure and lock in place. A single heel strap secures the back. The broad shape of the single toe strap reduces pressure for all-day comfort, and is made of freeze-proof, glove-friendly material. The SpeedLock Binding is featured on the Lightning Axis, Evo™ Tour, and Lightning Flash snowshoe models.

PosiLock™ AT Binding
The new freeze-proof PosiLock AT is the most secure and comfortable binding for aggressive ascents. A unique two-piece urethane binding body allows the user to secure each strap independently, resulting in a low-profile, binding that reduces pressure points and locks down tight to the contours of any footwear. The PosiLock AT Binding is featured on the Lightning Ascent and Evo Ascent snowshoe models.

Modular Flotation Tails
Modular Flotation Tails have been an exclusive feature to the one-piece composite UniBody™ deck snowshoes since their introduction in 1995. The optional tails make the snowshoe longer, providing more flotation in conditions that require it, such as breaking trail or deep powder. In the new MSR snowshoe line, Modular Flotation Tails are now an option for all new Lightning model snowshoes, making them more versatile than ever before. Lightning Tails are sold separately and are not compatible with Lightning-frame snowshoes released before the 2010-2011 season.

Televator™ Heel Lift
A metal bar that flips up under the heel, Televator heel lifts are designed to reduce calf-fatigue when climbing steeper hills by neutralizing the angle of the ascent while providing secure traction. An improved Ergo™ Televator™ heel lift features a high-clearance design that engages easily with the simple flick of a snowshoe pole or gloved hand. The Ergo Televator is featured on the Lightning Axis and Lightning Ascent snowshoe models. The original Televator Heel lift with a pull is featured on the Evo Tour and Evo Ascent snowshoe models.

2010-2011 Snowshoe Models

Explore Series – All-terrain traction and versatility with a focus on all-day comfort and ease-of-use. Models include: Lightning Axis and Evo Tour for men and women, Shift for youth.

Ascent Series – The most aggressive snowshoes for traveling from point A to point B, regardless of what lies in-between. Models include: Lightning Ascent and Evo Ascent for men and women.

Trek Series – All-condition traction and reliability, engineered for optimal efficiency on rolling terrain. Models include: Lightning Flash and Evo for men and women, Tyker for children and youth.

The 2010-2011 MSR Snowshoe Line will be available at retail in winter of 2010.

About the MSR® (Mountain Safety Research) Brand
Cascade Designs, Inc. engineers the MSR brand of standard-setting, high-performance outdoor equipment. A commitment to quality manufacturing and innovation ensures customers are outfitted with the finest, most reliable gear available for outdoor adventures. MSR brand product lines include stoves, fuel, cookware, water treatment, hydration, shelter, snowshoes and camp towels, the majority of which are made in the Seattle, U.S.A. and Cork, Ireland manufacturing facilities. For more information, visit MSR.

DryGuy: BootGlove™ & WickedWarm™ THERMAL LAYERING SYSTEM

2010-01-20T16:37:00.000-08:00

Do you work outdoors? Do you play hard in the snow? Have you ever faced the daunting prospect of sticking warm feet into footwear that are still wet from the last use?

The DRYGUY™ patents and technologies were born from these hands on experiences. In 1994 founder, Joel Beckett, set out to solve the problem of cold feet and hands. By applying lessons learned from 20 years in the aerospace industry, Joel discovered new ways to keep active people warm.

Today DRYGUY™ is the country's leading supplier of footwear and accessory dryers and thermal layering systems. Our products are designed to keep you at an optimum level of "Comfort inside & out."

Designed in the frigid Alaskan Arctic, BootGlove™ provides a Thermal Protection Layer of Insulating neoprene for your Ski Boots to keep your feet warm in extreme wind chill and winter snow conditions.

Skiers will appreciate the lasting warmth BootGlove™ provides adding up to +20°F/7°C to your boots toe box and conserving heat loss where it’s most important… YOUR FEET!

Features:

* 5 Mil N2s Neoprene outer shell
* Adjustable Velcro heel strap
* Wind and water proof
* Side abrasion patches
* 30 day warranty

Testing:

* In an engineered test at Moose Mountain Ski Resort in Fairbanks, Alaska the following results were recorded:
The outside air temperature was -5 degrees below zero F at the ski lodge.
* Temperature probes were placed on the shell of the ski boots.
* A BootGlove™ was placed over one of the boots in the ski lodge.
* After skiing 1,300' vertical feet, the exposed boot shell temperature was -5 degrees F, while the boot protected by the BootGlove™ was +48 degrees F.
* The shell of the boot protected by the BootGlove™ was 53 degrees F warmer than the other shell.
* The test was repeated with identical result

Glacier Skiing Safety

2010-01-19T16:23:00.000-08:00

Working in cooperation with the Compagnie du Mont Blanc, a partnership of a British Guide and ski instructor has produced a video aiming to reduce the number of skiers falling into crevasses.

The 6 minute video, shown below, will be screened all winter at the Aiguille du Midi and Grands Montets ski areas.

Filmed last winter on the famous Vallée Blanche, it shows the basic principles of skiing on glaciers in terms of crevasse spotting and group management. Directed and produced by BMG guide Andy Perkins and Courchevel ski instructor Simon Christy, the film also features Simon Abrahams on safety and stunts, and is narrated by Miles Bright who authored a book on glacier safety and rescue for skiers and boarders. The film team also had technical input from BMG guide Kath Murphy.

"Every year there are serious accidents and fatalities on the Vallee Blanche and elsewhere due to a fundamental lack of awareness of the hazards of glacial skiing. Every time we see folk heading down there with no packs or harnesses, we know it's an accident waiting to happen." says Chamonix-based Andy Perkins.

"Simon and I got together at the Adventure Film Academy in Kendal and decided to put our energies into an educational film project. We're delighted that the Compagnie du Mont Blanc is supporting its distribution to get the film in front of the thousands of skiers and boarders this winter".

The film will be recommended to people attending the safety awareness days at the transceiver park at the Grands Montets.

Glacier Skiing Safety (full audio version)

Zojirushi Tuff Sports vacuum bottle test: Blue River backcountry, BC

2010-01-16T10:58:00.000-08:00

I would like to share with all of you a short segment from the email I received recently, from my friend Laura Rapp.

She lives in Blue River, BC and was in our Denali 2008 team. This was her initial test of the Zojirushi Tuff Sports vacuum bottle. Zojirushi is my gear pick for Mt. Logan 2010 expedition.
See more about this great product: Zojirushi Tuff Sports

" ...
Everything is good here. The roads are really icy, and I've had a couple late nights working on the ambulance. We have a ton of snow here now! I've gone skiing a couple times on logging roads and it has been good.... but not for long... there is a big surface hoar layer and we're expecting a big dump of snow, so the snow pack will be really unstable soon.

That Tuff Sports vacuum bottle I got from Zojirushi USA is absolutely amazing!! Thank you again Zojirushi! I went out with a couple friends a few days ago and made a vacuum bottle of tea in the morning. It was a moderately cold day, maybe around -15C. We all enjoyed a steaming cup of tea with lunch. Later on that evening I was cleaning out my pack and dumped the bit that was left over and the bag into the sink trying to catch the bag, and I actually burned my hand a little because it was so hot still!!!
... "

New in boots -Dynafit TLT5 series

2010-01-15T10:45:00.000-08:00

Step into this revolutionary line of ultra performance ski boots, designed for speedy ascent and aggressive descents.

Available in two models, the TLT Performance (carbon cuff):

TLT 5 Performance TF
Color White/Yellow
Shell Grilamid®, carbon fiber
Cuff Carbon fiber, Pebax®
Buckles Ultra lock system
Forward lean 15°+ release for walking
Cuff rotation 60°
Sole Claw
Weight 1050g (27.5) – 1115g (with downhill booster)
Sizes 22.5-30.5 + 1/2 sizes
Bindings Dynafit Quick Step-In, compatible with standard ski touring bindings

and the TLT Mountain:

TLT 5 Mountain TF–X
Colou White/Green
Shell Grilamid®
Cuff Pebax®
Buckles Ultra Lock system
Forward lean 15°+ release for walking
Cuff rotation 60°
Sole Claw
Weight TF -X: 1225g (27.5) – 1290g (with downhill booster)
Sizes 22.5-30.5 + 1/2 sizes
Bindings Dynafit Quick Step-In, compatible with standard touring bindings

this renegade boot design creates an entirely new category in the world of alpine touring.

With five pending patents the TLT5 tackles every issue in contemporary ski boots. A lower compact shell constructed of Grilamid nylon, a Magnesium ultra-lock system, and downhill booster tongue, are just few of the newest features in this evolution towards speed touring.

Mt. Logan Expedition Gear Pick: Expedition Fry-Bake pan with lid

2010-01-13T12:46:00.000-08:00

About Banks FryBake

Since 1979, Banks FryBake has been developing high-quality durable pans. FryBake pans are favored by guides, college and university outdoor programs and individuals for their durability and uniqueness.

In the Wilderness, on your outdoor gas grill or in your kitchen at home, you won’t find a better, more versatile cooking pan. Banks FryBake pans have been used on Expeditions to the Arctic, the Yukon, the Polynesian Islands, and places near and far on every continent.

Mammut & Schoeller coldblack™

2010-01-08T12:36:00.001-08:00

New fit -top of the line materials- innovative finishing technologies

Schoeller coldblack™

In the past, mountain pants all had with intense alpine sunlight one drawback in common; dark colors are hot!

schoeller™ Switzerland has developed a solution to combat heat absorption by dark-colored fabrics called coldblack™. Not only will these alpine/ mountain pants keep you cooler on hot days, they are tough, breathable and stretchy so you can climb as hard as you want to and stay cooler while doing it.

The best selling pant "Courmayeur" has been updated to the "Courmayeur Advanced" and features new fits for woman and men. Especially noteworthy is the re-designed woman’s Courmayeur pant that now features a better fit a woman’s body. The pants still are made of schoelller®-dryskin and incorporate the innovative finishing technologies such as 3XDRY®, NanoSphere® and coldblack®.

Also shown are the Mountaineering pant for women.

Mountaineering Pant Women
Fabric:
schoeller®-dryskin with 3XDRY®, schoeller®-dryskin with
NanoSphere®, coldblack®
Features:
– New slim fit
– Edge and crampon protection with robust
reinforcement material
– Pre-shaped and reinforced knees
– 2 hand pockets with zip
– 1 leg pocket with zip
– available in black and smoke

Courmayeur Advanced Pant
Woman
Features:
– Proven schoeller® stretch quality (schoeller®-dryskin
with coldblack®)
– Unsurpassed comfort and fast-dryingtime due to
3XDRY®
– Special women’s cut
– 2 large front pockets with zip
– 1 side pocket and 1 seat pocket with zip
– Knees, edges and seat reinforcements
– made of Ripstop material
– available in taupe and schwarz

Courmayeur Advanced Pant
Man
Features:
– Proven schoeller® stretch quality (schoeller®-dryskin
with coldblack®)
– Unsurpassed comfort and fast-dryingtime due to
3XDRY®
– Integrated belt with plastic buckle
– 2 large front pockets with zip
– 1 side pocket and 1 seat pocket with zip
– Knee, edge and seat reinforcements made of Ripstop
material
– Leg width adjustable with press buttons

Dynafit launches new no-compromise hardware collection

2010-01-08T11:21:00.000-08:00

Broad Peak – pushing the boundaries

Dynafit’s Broad Peak is a product range that reliably accompanies ambitious athletes as they push themselves to new levels of endurance. Developed closely with the embers of the Broad Peak 2009 expedition, the features created for skis, boots, and poles will convince the most hard-to-please users with an array of innovations and benefits suitable for conditions ranging from the challenging to the extreme.

Products are only as good as the people who design and make them. On their Broad Peak expedition in the summer of 2009, the two Dynafit mountaineers, Benedikt Böhm (32) and Sebastian Haag (31) realized what it means to reach your limits and beyond. What the speed ascent specialists experienced on that trip significantly shaped the design process for the new Dynafit range.

The resulting products will inspire driven ski mountaineers all over the world in their quest for the ultimate equipment. Leading the way in the collection is the “Broad Peak” itself – a ski, a brand, a promise.

During the expedition, the Dynafit team had to deal with varying conditions on the ascent and descent at altitudes between 5,000 and 8,000 meters, steep windswept ice sheets, broken snow crust, deep slush, and packed powder snow. Apart from the altitude, all ambitious ski mountaineers are faced with such conditions even in the Alps or the Rockies.

The Broad Peak ski meets these challenges with a combined formula of raised
side walls for durability and lateral control and a top quality wood core of bamboo and beech for stability and light weight. The side-cut and broad shovel guarantee agility in turning, even on the steepest terrain and in all snow conditions.

Two new features will raise the bar for mountaineering skis: the specially designed 3D ski end protectors with a groove for skins and the patented, formlocking metal ski tip. The skis are manufactured in Austria.

After we launched the first super lightweight binding, many ski mountaineers were wondering how long it would be before another significant breakthrough could be made.

Now, Dynafit’s new ski boot, the TLT 5, provides the answer to that question. Those who have tested the TLT 5 describe it as the embodiment of ski mountaineering, as it excells at two very different activities: on long trips with large elevation gains and on steep, technically demanding descents. Its combination of ightness, flexibility and performance is unique in this form.

Thanks to its short sole and perfect compatibility with crampons, the TLT 5 is the first choice on trips involving difficult climbing sections through rock and ice. The Performance model comes with a carbon fiber cuff and represents lightness and high downhill performance. The Mountain model has a Pebax cuff. It is targeted at a wider range of users. Both models are manufactured in Italy.

Diehard off-piste skiers will be delighted to see the latest ski pole innovations. We set out to make our ski poles lighter, more stable and more reliable. It all came together with the ST - 100% Carbon Broad Peak, a two-part telescopic pole made of 100% carbon, and featuring the new Dynafit “Safety Snaplock System“.

Thanks to the revolutionary form-locking technology patented by Dynafit, this telescopic pole, when in a locked position, is as stable as a one-piece pole, thus
setting new standards for this product category. The old problem of the pole lipping down under your weight is gone forever. Finally, a pole can be adjusted simply and easily with one hand with the help of a tilt-lever mechanism.

TEKO® Sponsors Winter Events at Aspen/Snowmass

2010-01-06T12:37:00.000-08:00

TEKO, innovation leader in sustainable, high performance socks, is pleased to announce their sponsorship of winter events in partnership with Aspen Skiing Company (ASC).

This alliance between TEKO and ASC brings together two respected brands known as industry leaders in sustainable business practices. Both companies are like-minded in their commitment to the environment and sustainability.

“As the Official Sock of Aspen/Snowmass, TEKO is excited to partner with ASC on events this year,” said Chip Coe, CEO of TEKO. “The events we have lined up will truly enhance the visitors’ experience at the Aspen/Snowmass resorts.”

The upcoming events include:

Aspen/Snowmass Ski & Snowboard Open: February 11-14, 2010 at Buttermilk
Bud Light Big Air Fridays - February: February 12, 19, 26 at Snowmass Mountain
Colorado Freeride Championships: February 26-28 at Snowmass Mountain
Bud Light Big Air Fridays – March: March 5, 19, 12, 26 at Snowmass Mountain

About Aspen Skiing Company:

Aspen Skiing Company operates the four mountains in the Aspen/Snowmass area - Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk - as well as the award-winning Ski & Snowboard Schools of Aspen/Snowmass. The area offers unparalleled nightlife and off-slope activities as well. Aspen/Snowmass is accessible by two of the most convenient airports in the mountains – Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) (3 miles from Aspen) and Eagle County Airport (EGE) (70 miles from Aspen).

About TEKO:

TEKO Socks: Best Socks ON the Planet, Best Socks FOR the Planet.

Based in Boulder, CO, TEKO was founded on the belief that making high-performance outdoor products doesn’t have to have a heavy impact on our environment. Using only high-performance fibers and sustainable manufacturing processes, TEKO creates performance socks that are safer for the environment.

From the raw materials, all the way down to the recycled paper packaging, TEKO’s product line features environmentally sound materials, such as organic tekoMERINO™ wool and tekoPOLY™ recycled polyester. TEKO buys wind energy credits to ensure that 100% of the electricity used in manufacturing and operations is put back onto the energy grid from clean, sustainable American Wind.

TEKO is unique in that its eco-friendly commitment extends to its entire product line, supply chain, and daily business practices.

Millet Partners with Alpine Rescue Team

2010-01-06T11:21:00.000-08:00

The Alpine Rescue Team based in Evergreen, CO has chosen Millet as its outerwear provider for its sixty-five member team. The team took it one step further and fully embroidered the jackets with Alpine’s name/ logo’s/ rescue insignia.

Alpine Rescue Team has responded to wilderness emergencies since 1959: providing mountain search and rescue, day or night, 24/7. Alpine Rescue Team members are highly trained non-paid professional rescue-mountaineers based in Evergreen, Colorado.

Alpine Rescue Team

Alpine Rescue Team Experience:

• Over 50 Years of providing Search and Rescue in Colorado.
• 400 Mountain Search and Rescue Calls in past 5 years
• 150 Years of experience from current Incident Commanders/Operation Leaders.
• 50-70 Highly-Trained, Non-paid Professional Rescue Mountaineers.
Training/Mission: Man-hours
• 15,000 hrs - Average Training Man-hours per year
• 3,000 hrs - Average Mission Man-hours per year

“I’m proud to partner with the Alpine Rescue Team, a team with a mission to save lives”, says Todd Johnson, Millet Brand Manager.

About Millet:
Millet was founded in 1921 and is considered a leader in high performance products for mountaineering and climbing. Millet has diversified into the creation and development of clothing, packs, shoes, and ropes.

Mt. Logan Expedition Gear Pick: Leki Miracle S Mittens

2010-01-05T20:03:00.000-08:00

Leki Miracle Mitt S
Extremely weatherproof and warm Goretext mitten with Trigger S loop.

The Leki Miracle Mitts S are very breathable because of its soft Hyperloft-fed and they are very comfortable. A goat leather palm makes them also very "sticky" to pole grip.

Technical details:

* Trigger S loop: integrated loop between thumb and forefinger as a liaison to all trigger S-sticks
* Maximum security in combination with trigger S-poles (safety trigger on a stick)
* Power Frame: Maximum comfort / permits high tension of the loop
* Upper: Gore-Tex / Micro Honey / PU
* Palm: Goat Leather
* Lining: Micro Bemberg, Hyperloft - moisture-wicking fleece. Dries fast, optimum temperature compensation, high breathability.
* Feeding: HyperloftHyperloft - Very warm, lightweight hollow fiber.
* Color: black-navy
* Model: 2010

Outdoor Research Announces Tour of 2010 Ice Climbing Events

2010-01-05T13:59:00.000-08:00

Outdoor Research, manufacturer of functional solutions for human powered adventure, unveiled its 2010 ice climbing events calendar. Outdoor Research is taking part in five events including: Ouray Ice Festival in Ouray, CO; Adirondack International Mountain Festival in Keene Valley, NY; Smugglers Notch Ice Bash in Smugglers Notch, VT; Mt. Washington Valley Ice Fest in North Conway, New Hampshire; and the Knuckle Basher Ice Fest in Canmore, Alberta, Canada.

Alex Kutches, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, said, “The OR team is deeply committed to meeting the product needs of ice climbers. These ice climbing festivals are the perfect venue to connect directly with our consumers. We learn from their valuable feedback and we can show them our products while helping them build and improve their climbing skills and techniques.”

Outdoor Research Ambassadors and Connectors, a group of professional guides and experienced outdoor athletes, will lead clinics, slideshows, demos and seminars at all of the events. “We have some of the most talented and supportive Ambassadors and Connectors in the industry,” said Kutches. “Since many of them are professional guides, they are fantastic instructors as well as excellent athletes – a great mix for teaching the skills ice climbing requires.”

Outdoor Research staff will also be on hand to showcase and demo its rich assortment of handwear, gaiters and apparel for participants to try during the events.

Outdoor Research’s ice climbing events calendar, which is available at OR’s newly revamped VertiCulture site: outdoorresearchverticulture.com/events, includes:

JANUARY

January 7 - 10
The 15th annual Ouray Ice Festival held in Ouray, Colorado. ourayicefestival.com

January 15 – 17
The 14th annual Adirondack International Mountain Festival held in Keene Valley, New York.
mountaineer.com/?page_id=83

January 30 - 31
The 4th annual Smugglers Notch Ice Bash hosted in Smugglers Notch, Vermont.
www.sunriseclimbing.com/ice_bash_2010.html

FEBRUARY

February 4 - 7
The 17th annual Mount Washington Valley IMCS Ice Festival in North Conway, New Hampshire.
www.ime-usa.com/imcs/ice_fest.html

February 5 - 7
The Knuckle Basher Ice Festival in Canmore, Alberta, Canada.
www.knucklebasher.com

About Outdoor Research
Based in Seattle WA, Outdoor Research designs and manufactures functional solutions for human powered adventure. Outdoor Research offers technically innovative and superior Apparel, Headwear, Handwear, Gaiters, Storage and Shelter Systems. Product testing and high-quality construction is backed up with OR’s Infinite Guarantee ®.
Outdoor Research enthusiastically supports the outstanding conservation, access, and educational efforts of a variety of organizations and encourages our customers to do the same.

Outdoor Research - Designed by Adventure®.

Mt. Logan Expedition Gear Pick: Petzl Tibloc

2010-01-03T17:10:00.001-08:00

TIBLOC
Compact emergency ascender

In a bind, this ultra-lightweight ascender can be used to build hauling systems or as a Prusik-replacement in self-rescue situations. Use with the ULTRALEGERE pulley for a lightweight emergency hauling kit.

* Chrome-plated steel cam with angled teeth and self-cleaning slot securely grips the rope, even in muddy or icy conditions
* Can be used as a progress capture device in a hauling system
* Small hole at top of TIBLOC allows a keeper cord to be attached.

Specifications

Weight: 39 g
Material: chromoly steel
For use on single ropes 8-11 mm with a locking carabiner having a 10 to 12 mm round or oval cross section, such as the Am'D, ATTACHE, WILLIAM, etc)
3-year guarantee
CE EN 567/UIAA

Climbing Magazine
Tech Tip - Alpine - Hauling sense

Mt. Saint Elias Movie

2009-12-29T21:42:00.000-08:00

A dramatic and awe-inspiring feature documentary following three of the world’s greatest ski mountaineers to the Mount St. Elias in their attempt to realize the longest ski descent of the world.

Set against the backdrop of Alaska’s dangerous beauty, Mount St. Elias is about a visionary borderline experience where unparalleled physical and mental pressure pushes them to the absolute limit. They find themselves in puristic situations, in which heroism cannot easily be distinguished from folly. Situations which can only be mastered if reason is supposedly abandoned and in which courage as well as trust in their own abilities and last but not least luck are used as guidelines.

Two Austrian ski mountaineers Axel Naglich and Peter Ressmann as well as the American freeski mountaineer Jon Jonhston are facing this breathtaking challenge! A team with individual abilities, but also a team of leaders, knowing they literally cannot survive without teamwork and cooperation. Especially Axel Naglich, he unconsciously takes the role of the protagonist due to his charismatic and authentic personality and, within the permanent struggle not against nature but against himself, polarizes as a strong character.

A movie about men who accept mountains as a challenge. A process whose vision becomes a real adventure. Men who, formed by their origins, want to experience their passion as intensively as possible and above all want to survive.

Millet Shells Layers & Technology

2009-12-28T12:24:00.000-08:00

This new protection concept moves away from the orthodoxy of over-protective garments that are often unsuitable because too heavy and bulky, and instead offers more precise clothing worn according to the activity and weather conditions, as users’ continually seek to fully adapt to the natural environment.

Head for the mountains well-equipped!

Compared to the traditional Protection + Insulation + Moisture Transfer approach, Millet provides an innovative response with its multi-layer system. By combining our range, you get the right solution – whatever the conditions, whatever the terrain.

GSI OUTDOORS COOKWARE FOR 2010

2009-12-25T09:37:00.000-08:00

GSI Outdoors has long been known for their superior cookware. The different pieces are offered in an array of materials including coated Pinnacle, non-coated Halulite, Bugaboo aluminum, or Glacier Stainless Steel. Each material offers different attributes for individual preferences and pocketbooks. Two new Halulite pressure cookers are new for 2010.

Pinnacle cookware is constructed of GSI Outdoors’ proprietary lightweight hard anodized alloy combined with DuPont Teflon with Radiance® non-stick coating. It is the most durable, abrasion-resistant, and scratch-resistant, non-stick coating in the outdoor market. This coating was tested and approved by Dupont for use specifically with GSI Outdoors’ hard anodized cookware. It is the only product on the market to use the coating, which DuPont has approved “expressly for campware.” Radiance® reaches desired temperatures 25% faster than traditional non-stick coatings. The advantages are durability, superior cooking efficiency, and even heat distribution.

New! Pinnacle Backpacker

Designed with the ultra-lightweight aficionado in mind, Halulite™ Ultralight Hard-Anodized cookware is made of a proprietary alloy that is as light as titanium, but less expensive, more heat-efficient and has better heat distribution.

New! Halulite Microdualist

Bugaboo even-heating nonstick aluminum is the best value in the cookware industry. The aluminum core heats quickly and distributes heat efficiently to eliminate hot spots. Each piece is coated with two layers of Teflon Classic Coating for scratch resistance and easy cleanup.

Bugaboo Base Camper Small

Although heavier than aluminum, Glacier Stainless Steel is by far the most rugged cookware material on the market. Each piece is made of high-grade, 18/8 stainless steel, holds consistent temperatures, and is built to last for years.

Glacier Stainless Cooking Set MD

Two sizes of Halulite pressure cookers are new for 2010. Offered in a smaller 2.8-Liter and larger 5.8-Liter, they are both rugged, non-reactive, efficient, and cook with uniformity. Their compact, lightweight design is easy to store and carry, simple to use, and effortless to clean. The triple safety system locks the lid until all pressure has dissipated. Independent release valves prevent over-pressurization, even if one valve becomes clogged. It also seals in flavors, vitamins, and minerals. Cooking time is reduced by up to 66%, which saves fuel and carbon emissions. The smaller version will be popular with kayakers where space is a consideration, while the large size will work well in any base camp where cooking is done for groups. Instructions and recipes are included.

New! Halulite 5.8 L Pressure Cooker

Gourmet fry pans are offered in either Pinnacle or Bugaboo and are built starting from the highest-grade, restaurant-quality blanks. A fixed helper handle plus a removable primary handle allows for easy handling of the heavier 14-inch fry pans. The eight- and ten-inch fry pans use GSI Outdoors’ SureLock™ folding handle. Spiral-turned bases grip stoves and grills securely.

9" Steel Frypan

Single-person Mess Kits are available in Glacier Stainless Steel, Hard Anodized Extreme®, and Bugaboo. A seven-inch fry pan/lid; one-quart pot, bowl, and cup; and a DiamondBack Gripper™ are all packaged in a mesh bag. The DiamondBack Gripper attaches securely to the exterior bracket of the pot and frypan/lid, eliminating scratching and marring of the cookware and its coating.

Diamondback Gripper

Glacier Stainless Steel Cooksets are available in three sizes for one, two, or four people. Their nesting design includes two-each dual-use frypan/lids, two pots, two cutting boards, and a DiamondBack Gripper™ all packaged in handy mesh bags.

Pinnacle and Bugaboo Griddles are both universally sized to fit all cook stoves. They feature a grease gutter with pour spouts for rigidity and convenient handles that include hanging holes. A one-quart tea kettle made from GSI Outdoors’ proprietary Halulite is sized to hold ultralight stoves and fit optimally in packs. Other specialty products include an 11-inch Hard Anodized Extreme Wok with a SureLock™ folding handle that holds the lid in place for storage. A Bugaboo Waffle Iron and Glacier Stainless Toaster complete the collection.

Glacier Stainless Toaster

Two Petzl catalogs for your review ...

2009-12-19T20:30:00.001-08:00

Backcountry.com Crowns Smith Optics 2009 Vendor of the Year

2009-12-19T17:47:00.000-08:00

Park City, Utah, December 16th, 2009 — It's award season, when the best performers of the year take home the coveted trophies bestowed upon them by their industries' powerful taste makers. First the Nobel, soon the Oscars, Grammys, and Golden Globes, but now the one that everyone's been waiting for...Backcountry.com's 2009 Vendor of the Year.

After sorting through nominations of the more than 450 vendor partners of high-end gear that Backcountry.com sells, the secret panel of buyers, sellers and marketers today crowned Smith Optics as Backcountry.com's 2009 Vendor of the Year

Judges summed up their enthusiasm by saying that Smith is great at everything and they make it look effortless: innovative product, outstanding marketing support, a high level of interaction with Backcountry.com's business, their dialed logistics and fulfillment, and major support with customer service training. The perfect partner.

"Smith continues to push the industry by combining cutting edge technology with fashion-forward designs," said Jeff Snyder, Backcountry.com's vice president of merchandising. "They have a high level of interaction with our business that includes marketing, customer service training and product performance. Their fulfillment and logistics are second to no one. We look forward to continued growth with Smith Optics and are proud to be associated with the brand."

In recognition of the award, Smith receives the coveted Plaque and a high five. Sure it's no golden statuette but that's so it won't get ripped off from the lunch room.

"In every backcountry posse there is always one guy or girl that will kick butt. They can break trail for a couple of extra switchbacks, lead extra pitches, rig a camp stove and patch your boat all while rallying the troops in the face of adversity," said Snyder. "Smith’s extra effort, dedication and optimism make them leaders by default and that’s what we looked for when it came to choosing our 2009 Vendor of the Year."

Congratulations from everyone at Backcountry.com.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Ajungilak Altitude Winter Sleeping Bag

2009-12-18T16:42:00.000-08:00

The down expedition line offers excellent protection for the most extreme conditions.

Filling Goose Down: 800 cuin 95/5
Zip side: L + R
Max. body height in cm: 195
Total weight without PS: grams 1650
Filling in grams: 950
Volume in litres: 9
Zip length in cm: 180
Package Size in cm: 22x27

* The shelterTXTM outer fabric with waterproof yet breathable membrane offers excellent protection in rain and snow. 3-Season and Spring especially with water-repellent and breathable DWR outer fabric in the body zone

* Advanced Baffling chamber construction prevents the down from slipping and therefore cold spots when lying on the side or with an upright upper body

* Differential cut improves loft, insulation capacity and saves weight

* Two-layer 11-chamber construction in the foot area for extra warmth for the 5-Season, 9 chambers on winter model

* Hot Head Hood for maximum cold protection in the head area. Advanced Visibility offers a full view with the hood closed

* The unique Face Protector protects against cold wind. With 3-D heat collar

Construction / number of layers
Adv. Baffling
Neck collar
yes
Shoulderwidth in cm
86
Kneewidth in cm
65
Footwidth in cm
54
Outer webbing (main body)
shelterTX[TM]
Inner lining toughTX(TM)

Optimally suitable for:
Basecamp, Expeditions, Classical Alpinism
Suitable for:
Mixed- and Iceclimbing

Mammut Ajungilak Altitude Sleeping bag Test Event
2700m/Swiss Alps/Winter 2007

Smith Optics and Aspen Ski Co Team Up for the Environment

2009-12-16T22:20:00.000-08:00

December 1, 2009 (Ketchum, ID)

Smith Optics and Aspen Ski Company are proud to announce they are joining forces to fund projects that create a greener, more ecologically sustainable Aspen Valley.

From December 1, 2009 through January 31, 2010, the heart of the mountain retail season, customers purchasing Smith products at select Aspen Ski Company retail locations will be making a donation on Smith’s dime to the local environmental efforts of Greentrack, Aspen Valley’s forward thinking sustainability task force.

Smith is donating 50% of the profits on the sales of all products in their eco-friendly Evolve product collection sold at Aspen Ski Company retail locations D&E Aspen, D&E Snowmass, and 4 Mountain Sports to Greentrack during this time period.

“Aspen and Smith Optics have both been at the forefront of innovating to create a more sustainable, ecologically friendly product,” said Smith president, Ned Post. “Working with Aspen and supporting their efforts in this way is something we are very proud of and I hope we can continue to each forge new ground in reducing our impact and leave a better planet for our children.”

Three years ago, Smith Optics launched its Evolve initiative, a first of its kind project in the eyewear and helmet categories, to create a more sustainable, ecologically conscious product line. Smith’s Evolve collection encompasses the top end of their products in the sunglass, goggle, and snow helmet categories, featuring such in-demand items as the I/O goggle, Variant Brim snow helmet, and Techlite Polarized Glass sunglass models.

Evolve products employ a variety of materials and manufacturing techniques that reduce Smith’s impact on the environment. Evolve goggles feature a combination of recycled urethane and highly sustainable castor oil-based resins to replace virgin, petrol-chemically based urethane. Evolve sunglasses use a similar castor-based resin to the same end and use only water based dyes and protective finishes in lieu of industry standard lacquers and synthetic dyes. Evolve helmets use an Evolve X-Static liner, a material blending 96.3% recycled polyester and recycled silver into a liner which is antimicrobial and heat regulating.

All products’ cleaning/storage bags have been made substituting bamboo fibers for synthetic fibers further reducing the products’ reliance on petroleum. All Evolve packaging uses 100% FSC Certified recycled and post consumer paper materials, printed using soy-based inks and dyes.

Therm-a-Rest® NeoAir™ Mattress Named “Gear of the Year” by Men’s Journal Magazine

2009-12-16T11:08:00.000-08:00

Seattle, WA, December 16th, 2009 — Cascade Designs, Inc., the Seattle-based industry leader in the design and manufacture of premier outdoor equipment, is proud to announce that the company’s Therm-a-Rest NeoAir mattress has been honored by Men’s Journal magazine with a 2009 Gear of the Year award. One of 10 products chosen from hundreds as the best new camping gear in 2009, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir mattress was selected for its innovative design, usefulness and packability.

The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir mattress was released in early 2009 with much anticipation and demand in the marketplace due its innovative technologies. The compact three-season air mattress provides warmth and comfort without the added weight of insulation, packs to the size of a one liter-bottle and weighs only 14 ounces for a regular size. A patent-pending Reflective Barrier keeps the user warm by reflecting heat back to the body and blocking cold from the ground. A second patent-pending technology, the Triangular Core Matrix, contributes to the warmth by creating a multitude of air cells that minimize air movement and convective cooling. This matrix also creates an internal truss system that virtually eliminates the instability generally found on large tube-based air mattresses and assures that the user will shift less while resting comfortably on a 2.5 inch-thick mattress. Since thermal efficiency is achieved without the aid of down or fiber insulation, the NeoAir mattress can be blown up directly, without the added weight of an air pump or having to worry about exhalation moisture wetting insulation and decreasing performance.

The December 2009/January 2010 issue of Men’s Journal is on newsstands now.

About the Therm-a-Rest® Brand

Seattle-based Cascade Designs, Inc. has been the market leader in premium outdoor comfort for more than 35 years, designing the finest portable outdoor sleeping and seating solutions available under the Therm-a-Rest brand. The company’s commitment to quality manufacturing and innovation ensures that every product offers unrivaled comfort and reliability. All Therm-a-Rest mattresses are made in the Seattle, U.S.A. and Cork, Ireland manufacturing facilities. For more information on the Therm-a-Rest brand, visit www.thermarest.com.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Sponsor: Smith Optics

2009-12-15T22:47:00.000-08:00

Smith Optics Company Profile

Based in Sun Valley, Idaho, Smith Optics, Inc. was founded in 1965 with the creation of the first-ever goggle featuring a sealed thermal lens and breathable vent foam. In the early years, founder Dr. Bob Smith, an orthodontist by trade, made goggles by hand using dental tools, foam and glue. Before he struck a deal for manufacturing of Smith goggles in the late 60's, Smith would often trade his creations for lift tickets. These early prototypes were usually manufactured by Smith and friends around the kitchen table.

Building on that goggle heritage and extending its expertise, Smith Sport Optics has gone on to set the standard for high performance eyewear and goggles. Innovations over the years include the Fog-X anti-fog coating, PMT Perforated Membrane Technology lens ventilation system, patented Turbo C.A.M. Constant Air Management system, patented Regulator adjustable lens ventilation system, patented Roll Off's film advance system for motocross, patented ODS (Ocular Docking System) prescription insert and patented Slider series sunglasses, the most innovative interchangeable lens sunglass available.

Today, Smith Optics has become synonymous with innovative, durable, top-quality products in the eyewear and goggle market. The company is also recognized for its unparalleled team roster, which boasts some of the top names in biking, motocross, skiing, snowboarding, surfing, skateboarding and wakeboarding. Like many other companies, Smith utilizes team input as a key element of new product introductions. In addition, however, Smith athletes are actively involved in the development process for performance testing and coloration selection.

The corporate headquarters are in Ketchum, Idaho, but Smith Optics has hubs across the globe. The European headquarters are located in Florence, Italy; a promotions office is in Hossegor, France, near Biarritz; and San Clemente, Calif. is the center of Smith's surf and MotorSports operations.

Smith products are sold worldwide in more than 50 countries through specialty and sporting goods stores. From Smith's distortion-free Tapered Lens Technology to the versatility of the Slider Series, with its patented, interchangeable lens system, its' devotion to excellence, innovation and style has made Smith goggles and sunglasses the choice of action-sport athletes worldwide. Smith products represent authentic sports gear, researched and tested by a dedicated group of employees and athletes that live and breathe the lifestyle.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: GSI Pinnacle Base Camper- Large

2009-12-15T11:54:00.000-08:00

The nFORM Destination System has been designed from the ground up for truly comfortable, truly enjoyable camping.
Whether base camping, family camping or car camping, camp is always the ultimate destination and the nFORM Destination System has been built to combine the performance, robustness and reliability of your home cookware with ingenious features that make being in the outdoors the true pleasure that it should be.
With two generously-sized pots, locking, folding handles, a stuff sack, frypan, cutting board, handy strainer lids and a chuck box friendly-footprint, the nFORM Destination System is inviting you out to eat.
Let’s go.

3 lbs 2 oz.

5 L Pot, 3 L Pot, 9.0" Frypan, 2 Strainer Lids, Cutting Board, Folding Pot Gripper, Welded Sink

Pinnacle series cookware uses Teflon® with Radiance technology which has been tested and approved expressly for campware use. The secret lies in a specially-formulated topcoat engineered to enhance heat dispersion and virtually eliminate hot spots. Moreover, the three layer coating was built to survive the toughest conditions and boasts an unprecedented level of scratch and abrasion resistance.
It’s even safe for use with most metal utensils!

Locking, double bail handles make for easy handling of 5 L pot and secure entire set for transport.
Rugged stuff sack holds set and doubles as a sink or wash basin.
Exclusive folding gripper locks on to exterior brackets on pot and fry-pan to prevent scratching and to provide a secure handle while cooking. Unique design compacts for nested storage.
Thick cutting board provides stable prep surface while isolating the pots for clatter-free nesting.
Crush-proof lid made of BPA-Free resin prevents deformation of your pot/lid and includes an integrated strainer.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Sponsor: GSI Outdoors

2009-12-15T10:55:00.000-08:00

GSI Outdoors is in the business of making cookware and dining products that adapt the comforts of home to active outdoor lifestyles at the campsite, base camp and anywhere in between.

In 1985, brothers Don and Ian Scott and sister Kathy started the company in San Diego and then moved to Spokane, Washington in 1995, where they have been ever since. In 2001, GSI Outdoors started distributing outdoor related gifts under the name of Outside Inside.

What began as a small distribution company selling blue enamel tableware has expanded into the design, manufacturing, sales and marketing of an innovative array of outdoor cookware and a whole range of eating and drinking products that are technical, innovative and fun.

GSI Outdoors products are distributed worldwide.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Zojirushi Tuff Sports

2009-12-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

The Tuff Sports is light and compact, and is a perfect accompaniment for sporting events or picnics. Its all stainless steel construction is durable and provides superior heat retention, and the wide mouth design easily accommodates full size ice cubes and more. Other features include a nonstick interior, non-roll, collapsible handle and one-touch, pour-through stopper.

Model No.
SJ-SDE10
Capacity
34 oz. / 1.0 liter
Dimensions (W x D x H)
4-1/8 x 3-3/4 x 10 inches
Weight (lbs. oz.)
1.06
Heat Retention*
174°F @ 6 hrs. / 129°F @ 24 hrs.
Cold Retention**
46°F @ 6 hrs.
Color
Stainless
*Rating is based on water at a starting temperature of 203°F (95°C) at a room temperature of 68°F (20°C)
**Rating is based on water at a starting temperature of 40°F (4°C) at a room temperature of 68°F (20°C)

NEMO’s Losi 3P™ Named Gear of the Year by Men’s Journal

2009-12-10T15:39:00.000-08:00

Nashua, NH, December 10th, 2009 — NEMO’s Losi 3P™ is the recipient of one more award—the 2009 Gear of the Year award from Men’s Journal. It’s been a good year for Losi 3P™; this award follows its recent recognition as Best All-Around 3 Person Tent from Backpacker and Gear of the Year from Outside.

According to the opening paragraph of their Gear of the Year section, “An Everest-size pile of new products materializes every year, each one claiming to be the next big thing. The majority are unremarkably satisfactory; a few are laughably pathetic. Rarest of all are the 25 superlative objects on these six pages.”

“You can have a tent that’s lightweight but cramped, a tent that's roomy but heavy, or a NEMO Losi 3P™, which ticks both boxes. It weighs only 5.9 lbs. but sleeps three in cavernous comfort thanks to 50 square feet of space and a four-foot ceiling - enough elbow room for eight men to play poker on a rainy night. Dual 13 square foot vestibules keep your packs dry, and built-in organizer pockets prevent small stuff from being lost,” says Men’s Journal.

“We are very proud to be recognized by Men’s Journal with the Gear of the Year award for Losi 3P™. We set out to design a 3 person tent that would provide the greatest amount of space, features and comfort in a package weighing less than 2 lbs per person. Losi 3P™ accomplished that mission. The success of Losi™ shows us we’ve been moving in the right direction and encourages us to keep taking risks and press ahead as innovators,” said NEMO president and founder, Cam Brensinger.

The December/January issue of Men’s Journal is on newsstands now.

Finishing its fifth year of sales, NEMO is doubling production for 2010 based on retailer, consumer and military demand. Best known for its innovative AirSupported Technology® utilizing airbeams instead of traditional aluminum tent poles, NEMO’s product line is expanding from 12 to 20 tents next year. Its sleeping pad line will also grow, adding a new model to the existing line.

NEMO Equipment, Inc. was founded in 2002 by Cam Brensinger with the commitment to bringing the highest level of design and engineering to the world of outdoor adventure sports. The company produces lines of air-supported and traditional poled tents for the backcountry, accessories, sleeping pads and pillows. Besides AirSupported Technology®, NEMO has patents pending for its lightweight pumps, washable floor liners, condensation curtains and many more features and accessories which add functionality and comfort to its shelters. NEMO tents can be found at local, national and international retailers, including Eastern Mountain Sports, REI, and Moosejaw.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Sponsor: Adventure Medical Kits

2009-12-09T11:03:00.000-08:00

Enjoy the Outdoors Safely!

Our playing fields are often located far from the modern amenities that we take for granted - electricity, telephones, running water, and ready access to professional medical help. Consequently, the need to be self-sufficient in the outdoors is essential, especially during an emergency when assistance from rescue teams may be hours or days away. Selecting the right outdoor safety gear -- products that have been tested to withstand the elements and that are intuitively designed so that they can be used easily by the layperson -- can make all the difference when it matters most.

Adventure Medical Kits is dedicated to bringing you the most innovative products which will keep you safe in the outdoors. At AMK, our love of the outdoors is matched only by our drive to create products that allow your customers to stay healthy on land, water, and air. We rely on the expertise of world authorities in wilderness medicine and survival techniques to develop and refine our products year after year.

An adventurous spirit loves to explore. We hope that Adventure Medical Kits help you enjoy those experiences and keep you coming back for more.

Adventure Medical Kits' Be Safe Survival Essentials @ Yahoo! Video

LNTE Training: Goat Mtn. Dec. 8 2009

2009-12-09T08:59:00.000-08:00

Petzl Summit
Originally uploaded by Leave No Trace Expeditions

Region: The North Shore Mountains, Vancouver BC
Difficulty: Intermediate
Time: 4 hours
Distance: 8km
Elevation Gain: 300 meters
Season: July - October
Camping: No
Dog Friendly: No
Public Transit: Yes

Approx. 30 minutes from Vancouver Goat Mountain is a picturesque hike that starts from the top of the Grouse Mountain Ski Resort. On a sunny, clear day, the top of Goat Mountain can offer views of Vancouver and even as far away as Mount Baker, Vancouver Island, and some of the mountain ranges in Garibaldi Provincial Park near Squamish.

From the top of the Grouse Mountain Skyride, follow the paved path, going left towards the Peak chairlift, the highest ski run that is visible in the distance. The paved path will pass the logging show area and grizzly bear pen before becoming a gravel pathway. Veer to the left as the path begins to gradually ascend, with a rocky mountainside on the right and a cliff with a view down towards the Capilano Watershed on the left.

After walking for 15 minutes, you arrive at a wooden sign on a board that has trail maps of the area. Continue past the sign and up the steep rocky slope as the trail goes through a few short switchbacks before reaching the Dam Mountain junction. At the sign, go right towards Goat Mountain and continue walking along the trail as it levels slightly. As you continue your hike, look to your right at the scenic view of the mountains and the occasional glimpse of Kennedy Lake below.

The trail eventually arrives at another sign, which points to the right in the direction of Goat Mountain. Walk down the hill and a few minutes later, you arrive at yet another junction. Go straight, following the clearly marked route. On your left, the jagged peak of Crown Mountain stands high above while up ahead you begin to see the rounded shape of Goat Mountain.

After a relatively flat stretch of trail, you arrive at a steep section with a rope and chain to help pull yourself up and over the tree routes. Continue to the right as the trail wraps around Goat Mountain before reaching a sign that leads to Goat Ridge off to the right. A short side trip to Goat Ridge offers a different view down towards the Hanes Valley.

The last stretch of Goat Mountain is steep, however it only take 5 to 10 minutes to complete. Make your way up the steep slope in the final scramble onto the peak to witness the full panoramic view. Walk around the top and find the perfect spot to enjoy the view while you eat your lunch.

After enjoying the scenery, head back towards the orange markers and make your way down the steep section and back onto the trail. Follow the route you took, passing the clearly marked signs heading back towards Grouse Mountain.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Talus Outdoor Technologies Cold Avenger

2009-12-06T01:25:00.000-08:00

Featuring stretch soft-shell fabric, the Talus ColdAvenger® Pro face mask lets you breathe freely in extreme cold while keeping your face and respiratory system warm and protected.

* Stretchy soft-shell fabric is ideal for use in extreme cold and wind; designed for use around 20°F and below
* ColdAvenger ventilation system mixes cold air with exhaled warm air to keep inside mask temperatures 40 to 60°F higher than outside, depending on the activity
* Patent-pending ventilation system lets you breathe easily during high exertion so you can perform to your best
* Exhaled moisture binds to the flexible plastic ventilation piece, keeping your face dry; ventilation piece is made of medical-grade, antimicrobial polyurethane plastic
* Fabric helps to wick moisture away, keeping your face dry
* Designed to fit well with goggles and helmets

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Hestra GTX XCR Gloves

2009-12-05T17:16:00.000-08:00

Fabric

Triton/Entrant G2 5000

Our most hard-wearing fabric, which we use for our Alpine Pro gloves. Wind- and waterproof with excellent breathability.Tearing strength: 20,000 revolutions. Watertightness: 5,000 mm water column. Water Vapor Permeability: 8,000 g/mÙ2/24h.

Features:

Eagle Grip®

We shape or pre-curve the gloves so that they follow the natural curve of our hands, giving a better, more comfortable grip.

Hestra Handcuff

Soft, elastic wristband and leash to secure gloves. Removable.

Snow Lock

Keeps the snow out and the heat in.

Insulation:

Fiberfill

An insulating material made from polyester fibers.

Leather:

Army Leather

Our most durable leather. Specially-treated, wear-resistant goat leather. This leather is thoroughly waterproofed and has a natural structure that gives effective protection against water penetration.

Lining:

Bemberg

Soft and cozy polyamide lining.

Waterproof Insert:

Gore-Tex XCR

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Supporter: Hestra Gloves USA

2009-12-05T17:06:00.000-08:00

For almost 70 years the Magnusson family of Hestra, Sweden has been committed to producing the finest performance gloves available.
Today, brothers Claes and Svante maintain the tradition started by their grandfather, Martin, back in 1936.

Once you have had an opportunity to put your hands into a pair of Hestra Gloves it will be clear that you have found the quintessential performance hand-wear in the market today. At Hestra, we take great pride in coupling the finest materials available with exacting patterns and construction.

Leather has been, and remains, our favorite material for its combination of durability, water resistance, warmth and supple feel. We source the highest quality leathers from Scandinavia, Britain, France, Japan and USA . Because leather is a natural material there are vast levels of quality; Hestra uses only the best.

Hestra gloves are manufactured in our own factory allowing us to maintain consistently the highest quality standards. Over the past several years in America, Hestra Gloves have enjoyed a cult following of core skiers, many of whom are professional instructors, racers and patrol.

We are delighted to announce the opening of our USA subsidiary located in Golden, Colorado. From our headquarters in Golden we will manage all facets of our USA business including customer service and warehousing.

Hestra Gloves are sold through a small network of quality retailers in America. While we are in the process of building a more complete retailer network, we realize that Hestra Gloves may be difficult to track down.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Gear Pick: Movement Ski and Boots Bags

2009-12-02T12:31:00.000-08:00

Kashmir
Easy Rider (Low Tech)
Liters 170cm / 185cm
Size L177 - H32 - W12 cm / L192 - H33 - W12.5 cm
Weight 1.20 Kg
Color Black / Red
Material Polyester 600D
Zip Nylon Zipper / Silicone Puller
Specials Foam Padded In Middle Part, Volume Reductor, Dual End Carry Handles

Boot House
Easy Rider (Low Tech)
Liters 1 Pair Skiboot
Size L54 - H33 - W9.5 cm
Weight 0.50 Kg
Color Black / Red
Material Polyester 600D
Zip Nylon Zipper / Silicone Puller
Specials
Tools Side Pocket, Adjustable Shoulder Strap

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Supporter: ROI

2009-12-01T18:21:00.000-08:00

OUR STORY

Recreation Outfitters Inc. is based in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia. The company has been a importer, manufacturer and distributor of outdoor products, skiing and snowboard products and outdoor lifestyle products for over 35 years.

Being based in Vancouver has a number of obvious advantages if you are in this business most importantly, we are surrounded by the natural amenities that allow us to test, use, thrash, torture and review all of the outdoor products we sell. It allows us to be in close contact with a community of athletes that in some cases are among the best of the best and know what works and what is hype. Our backyard is as close as 15 minutes away to world-class climbing, mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding, whitewater kayaking, paragliding, hiking, trail running, kayaking, windsurfing, ski touring, mountaineering....really there is not too much you can't do except maybe...well perhaps...rely on the weather!

All of our employees are passionate outdoor enthusiasts that take full advantage of the rich surroundings and natural playground that surround us.

So if you find yourself coming up or over our way, send us a note to let us know you are coming, We would love to show you around the place or direct you to our favorite sometimes secret spots.

Mt. Logan 2010 Expedition Supporter: Movement

2009-12-01T13:56:00.000-08:00

A story about passion

Created in 1999, the brand has been marketed in 2002, after 3 years of research and development. It was adopted very quickly in the marketplace and it now offers, a complete range of skis that respond to all the skiing disciplines of the skier of today.

From our inception, we wanted to distance ourselves by working on extraordinary product ranges intended for passionate connoisseurs. In six short years we have established Movement Skis as this sort of brand.

Each segment of our brand is developed with specialists and professionals. The lines are pure and differentiated. We put our best products on the snow, those that have been tested for a long time, being able to offer outstanding performances. At Movement Skis the construction of the ski is paramount. We insist on highlevel construction with a propriety woodcores, chosen and calibrated for us, guaranteeing vitality and perfect ride on every snow condition.

The 09/10 collection is full of new stuff. Our R&D team surpassed itself. Freeski, high mountain skiing, telemark and freestyle is our world and our purpose, and we want to share all this with you. Riding the magnificent mountains and signing the most audacious turns is the ultimate goal for each of us. Join us, discover our products and to share our totally freeski dedicated universe.

Therm-a-Rest® Haven™ Top Bag Receives Best of Adventure Gear Award from National Geographic Adventure Magazine

2009-11-30T18:35:00.000-08:00

Seattle, WA, November 30th, 2009 — Seattle, U.S.A. - Cascade Designs, Inc., the Seattle-based industry leader in the design and manufacture of premier outdoor equipment, is proud to announce that the company’s new Therm-a-Rest Haven Top Bag has been honored by National Geographic Adventure magazine with a Best of Adventure gear award. One of 26 products recognized as the most groundbreaking for 2010, the Therm-a-Rest Haven Top Bag was selected for its design innovation that delivers warmth and comfort at two-thirds the weight of a traditional 20-degree sleeping bag.

“It’s been a long time since a sleeping bag could boast true innovation, yet the Top Bag has done just that.” wrote Adventure West Coast Editor Steve Casimiro in the Best of Adventure Issue. “It might look like a traditional mummy sack from above, but the bottom is cut out so you can slip your pad inside and lie right on it. … You’ll never roll onto cold, hard ground again.

The Best of Adventure gear winners are nominated and selected by Adventure editors with the guidance of a Retail Advisory Board composed of 34 of the leading U.S. outdoor retailers. Members of the Retail Advisory Board weigh-in with their expertise on the level of product innovation and report on what products consumers are particularly excited about in the marketplace.

The unique zipper-less design of the Haven Top Bag takes full advantage of inherent mattress warmth, eliminating unnecessary insulation between mattress and sleeper for optimal performance and ultra-light comfort on the trail. Featuring premium box-baffled 700-fill goose down wrapped in durable 20D nylon, a full hood and enclosed foot box for warmth and draft control, the impressively lightweight 1 pound, 6 ounce (624 gram) Haven Top Bag integrates with any insulating mattress, delivering an EN-13537 rating of 20°F (-6°C). The bag’s innovative wrap-around design provides room where it is needed most without excessive air space for maximum efficiency, and features an elasticized opening for easy entry and exit. The bag also features a built-in chest pocket for convenient storage of headlamps, hats, gloves or music and packs up easily in a compact six-by-nine-inch stuff sack provided.

“We’re extremely proud to receive this award,” said Jim Giblin, Senior Softgoods Designer for Cascade Designs. “Unconventional designs like this require a shift in thinking and we’re excited that Steve and the Retail Advisory Board recognized the outstanding benefits of this different kind of sleeping system.”

The versatile Haven Top Bag integrates with any mattress and can be secured with easy-to-use straps (included) or used without straps in warmer weather. For colder weather, a tapered Therm-a-Rest ProLite™ or ProLite Plus mattress can be easily slipped inside providing draft-free warmth. The Haven Top Bag will be available in two sizes, regular and large, for $239.95 and $249.95 USD and will be in stores January 2010. The December 2009/January 2010 Best of Adventure Issue of National Geographic Adventure is on newsstands now.

About the Therm-a-Rest® Brand

Seattle-based Cascade Designs, Inc. has been the market leader in premium outdoor comfort for more than 35 years, designing the finest portable outdoor sleeping and seating solutions available under the Therm-a-Rest brand. The company’s commitment to quality manufacturing and innovation ensures that every product offers unrivaled comfort and reliability. All Therm-a-Rest mattresses are made in the Seattle, U.S.A. and Cork, Ireland manufacturing facilities. For more information on the Therm-a-Rest brand, visit www.thermarest.com.

About National Geographic Adventure

National Geographic Adventure, winner of four National Magazine Awards, is the fastest-growing magazine in the outdoor category and the ultimate guide to the adventure lifestyle. Published eight times a year, with a rate base of 625,000, National Geographic Adventure has 2.8 million readers. It is available by subscription (800-NGS-LINE) and on newsstands in the United States ($4.99) and Canada ($6.99). Its editorial mission supports National Geographic's corporate global mission to inspire people to care about the planet. The magazine’s Web site is www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure.

LNTE Training: November 29th 2009, Mt. Seymour Backcountry

2009-11-29T15:15:00.000-08:00

Located just 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Mount Seymour Provincial Park has been enjoyed by generations of Lower Mainland residents.

The park offers viewpoints overlooking the city of Vancouver and east over Indian Arm Provincial Park. There are opportunities for bird and wildlife viewing and four areas for day-use picnicking are available. There are several lakes in the park. Elsay Lake is the largest. Its waters and those of De Pencier, Gopher and Goldie drain eastward to Indian Arm. Some of the smaller lakes and ponds feed their waters west to the Seymour River.

Visitors will find many trails of various lengths and difficulty. Lower mountain trails are used extensively by mountain bikers and hikers, while upper mountain trails are restricted to hiking. Winter trails are put in place Mid-December thru March 31 each year. Winter snowshoe trails and ski trails marked by BC Parks do not require a permit or pass. The park also offers extensive winter recreation facilities including skiing, snowshoeing and a supervised snow play area operated by Mount Seymour Resorts. Mount Seymour also offers a multitude of activities for summer recreationalists, include, hiking, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and mountain biking.

Gear tested:
Teko Socks
Suunto Core Watch
Millet Rucksack - Peuterey 35 Limited
Leki Aergon 2 Backcountry Ski Poles
Mammut Alugator Shovel

Shure Montreux Jazz Voice Competition Now Accepting Entries

2009-11-28T11:44:00.000-08:00

NILES, ILLINOIS — Shure Incorporated announced that entries are being accepted for the Shure Montreux Jazz Voice Competition. It will occur during next year’s Montreux Jazz Festival, which takes place from July 2 – 17, 2010, in Montreux, Switzerland.

Developed by Shure and the organizers of the Montreux Jazz Festival in 2003, the competition, now in its eighth year, provides aspiring young jazz vocalists with the opportunity to compete in front of an international audience and a renowned panel of judges. Under the patronage of Quincy Jones, world-renowned artists like Angélique Kidjo, Al Jarreau, and Solomon Burke have presided over the judging in previous years. Prizes will be awarded to the competition’s finalists at next year’s Festival, including an invitation for the winner to perform at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 2011.

The Montreux Jazz Festival will accept entries from candidates who were born after January 1, 1975, and the closing date for applications is April 15, 2010.

In addition to sponsoring the competition, Shure will enter its 16th year in supporting the festival as Official Technical Supplier of Microphones and Wireless Microphone Systems.

Jetboil Facebook Photo Contest

2009-11-28T11:13:00.000-08:00

Post your photo on Jetboil's Facebook page between November 17th and December 6, 2009.

Feature Jetboil system actively in use by someone

Prizes: A Flash unit to three winners *

Winners announced by the end of December

Hints: increase your chance of winning!

• Jetboil system featured in foreground

• Jetboil logo facing camera

• non-Jetboil brand logos not visible

• Jetboil accessories are in use

• people in the photo are looking at the Jetboil system or at each other

• Ambient lighting

• Jetboil items shown being used as recommended (see Jetboil website or instructions)

"Fine print": by posting your photo, you give consent to Jetboil to use your image on its web site and in any print media, free of charge. See Jetboil's Terms of Use for additional details. *Prize shipment limited to USA locations. Photo must be posted to Facebook by the Jetboil Facebook fan who took it. Winners- High resolution image to be provide to Jetboil as .jpg or .tif.

Elevate Your Experience with Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing

2009-11-28T10:34:00.001-08:00

Nestled in the heart of the Monashee and Cariboo mountains - and with more than 10 metres of snowfall each year, Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing is renowned for majestic mountains, pristine powder and exceptional ski terrain. Experience the challenge of steep trees, the thrill of a glacier descent or the more relaxed pace of our gentler slopes as you explore more than 1,200,000 acres of our ski terrain.

Select a professionally guided three, five or seven day heli or snowcat vacation, then enjoy the advantages of our perfect powder, luxurious Heli Village Resort and "unlimited vertical" policy.
Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing - experience back country powder the way nature intended it.

Signatures, a new Sweetgrass film brought to you by Dynafit

2009-11-25T14:08:00.000-08:00

Dynafit is proud to partner with Sweetgrass Productions on their sophomore film, Signatures. At the heart of this deep powder mystery: the seasons. In Japan there is a cultural connection to the different Signatures of home-- a sense that fall, winter, spring, and summer influence the rhythm of the person, their energy, their style, and the lines they choose. Blanketed with 700 inches of snow at an altitude of 300 feet, the mountains of Hokkaido drop right into the ocean. This is where Dynafit athletes and the film crew captured their Signatures.

And after seven months touring in the hardwoods of Hokkaido, Japan, the Sweetgrass family began their proud film tour in Aspen and Montreal in September. With simultaneous premieres, they began by winning Best Cinematography at the International Freeskiing Film Festival. Propelled by this win, Sweetgrass hit the road with shows across the USA, Canada and even Tokyo. With media coverage in every town along the way, backcountry skiers turned out in force to see the latest from Sweetgrass.

Press
"If you like your backcountry riding videos shot in high definition, using gorgeous framing and impeccable cinematography, then you won’t want to miss Hand Cut."
- Amber Taufin, Westword

"HAND CUT forges a solid storyline between dissimilar subjects -- early days of railroading in BC, backcountry travel, skiing, hard ass mountain folk -- while capturing subtleties of light, mood and sound that communicate the prose of wilderness, and the authentic voices of people who've become the region's characters. Not to be missed."
- Randy Wayne White, Editor-at-large, Outside Magazine

"Sweetgrass Productions' "Hand Cut- Las Lenas" is shot in Argentina, a destination that now lives in my dreams. The intro is dreamy, with pluckystringy mellow music. There's a huge powder line, graceful turns... it's hypnotic. This movie is beautiful; even the font that introduces the skiers is tall and loopy and smooth. It's short but I'd watch this one for hours."
- Matt Beaudin, Editor, The Telluride Daily Planet

Mt. Logan 2010 Gear Pick: Leki Mountain Lite Carbon

2009-11-23T19:35:00.000-08:00

Mountain Lite Carbon

* AERGON Thermo Long / Neoprene Lock Security Strap
* 16mm HTS 6.5/11mm Carbon
* SLS
* Spinner Basket
* Carbide Flextip Long
* Ultra Sonic Finish
* Adjustable 105 - 150cm