Sage to Summit Gear Reviews
Hoka OneOne Stinson B/Combo XT
Kozak -
Admittedly, I had been intentionally avoiding all versions of running's answer to the "fat ski." That is, until I found myself at Camp 1, 26 miles into a 3 day, Sierra Mountain Guides/Sage To Summit/CAMP USA-sponsored gear-testing, fastpack of the Sierra Nevada's 56 mile long Evolution Loop less than a week after finishing the Pine To Palm 100 Miler, with feet that felt like they were back at mile 95. When I awoke the next morning to face the ruggedness of the Muir Pass area of the John Muir Trail with still sore and sensitive dogs I decided the time had come to give these things a ride. It's quite possible they transformed a seemingly unavoidable miserable day into the enjoyable experience it was...
The 40mm of foam midsole cushioning magically turned the rough, rocky trail into a smooth path. My feet suddenly felt fine. I no longer had to pay as close attention to where I planted my feet. Surprisingly, the relatively high platform did not sacrifice stability due to the wide base and the fact that the foot is cradled down into the midsole, creating a sort of external illusion that the foot rests on an impossibly tall stack height.
The mega-cushioning feel does take some getting used to as it can give the sensation of absorbing the propulsive force of foot-strike as opposed to returning it. These shoes do seem like they would be a bit much for sustained climbs but for the opposite, relentlessly long and rough descents, they turn pounding into plush with every stride. Also, as I discovered, if your feet are banged up for whatever reason, the Hokas can get you on the trail when you might otherwise opt out of a run.
At the very least these shoes would be an excellent choice to have in a late-stage 100 miler drop bag, just in case something is going horribly wrong with your feet. I certainly wish I had had a pair waiting for me at mile 90 of Pine to Palm.
And, to be sure, the Hokas are an exciting, innovative counterpoint to the minimalist movement, proving that one runner's revolution is another runner's debate topic.
Ryan Spaulding, Sage to Summit Staff -
Though the Hoka One One is the talk of the town among the ultrarunning community, I find that this shoe will not be for everyone- myself included. The shoe's reputation as an extremely comfortable ride holds to be true, yet I found that I had less control over my foot strike placement on technical terrain. Though I do not consider myself a minimalist trail runner, I do like to feel the ground in order to retain better control of my running posture.
Howie Schwartz - IFMGA Ski & Mountain Guide , Sierra Mountain Guides -
Amazing how much smooth a rocky trail feels with these on your feet. That said, I tried them off trail on steep, loose hillsides, steep slab scrambling, and talus hopping to see how they would perform. The high profile created by the uniquely lofty EVA midsole no doubt led to increased leverage on the ankles, knees, and hips. In this terrain, stability and efficiency are significantly compromised. On trail though, where the entire enlarged footprint of the shoe can strike more evenly on the ground, I experienced an economy of movement that was unimaginable before this test. The Hokas are a major technological breakthrough and are a must-have quiver shoe for serious trail runners of all abilities.
New Balance 110
Kozak -
A wear-tester in the October 2011 Trail Runner mag shoe review guide described the 110s as the "futuristic, space-moccasin love child of the 101 and Minimus Trail." Although I personally wouldn't wear them to a 50th Anniversary Woodstock Celebration on the moon, they do combine some of the best features of the 101s and the Minimus into one great shoe.
The 100/101s were my first minimalist love with one significant flaw: the high durometer (hardness) of the outsole rubber made them feel downright dangerous on very rocky terrain, even when dry. The Minimus Trail has proven for me that the concept of "less is more" can be taken too far for some runners' feet. With such a thin underbelly and no protective rock plate I never moved beyond wearing them for 6-8 mile runs on flat dirt/gravel roads or smooth trails.
The 110, with its softer outsole rubber and slightly thicker, more protective midsole (but utilizing the same 4mm drop and last as the Minimus) solves these issues beautifully and is quickly becoming my go-to minimalist shoe.
Grippy on rough, rocky terrain, highly responsive on the smooth stuff, the 110 is a great choice when you're desiring to go light and fast, short or long.
Ryan -
NB has brought an update to the cult-classic NB MT101, with new styling and some of the same great features. The rock-plate is still present, which is a huge hit in my books as these shoes, despite being so minimal, can hold their own on the rugged trails of the High Sierra.
Howie Schwartz - IFMGA Ski & Mountain Guide , Sierra Mountain Guides
I have a neutral foot type and I enjoy the freedom of what the barefoot simulating minimalist shoes offer. My technique however is not flawless and my muscles have spent decades of mountain activity with supportive and cushioning footwear. I can't put on a barefoot shoe and run a mountain marathon. However I have found that the NB 110 with a bit more midsole and a stiff rock plate in the forefoot are the perfect balance of minimalism and function for the more rugged terrain I like to travel. On or off trail, these shoes perform, and they fit great. My all-time most favorite running shoe. On the downside, like most all minimalist shoes, durability is a definite consideration here.
Mizuno Wave Rider 14
Chris -
I don't spend a lot of time running on the road--it's a mile or less to get to dirt from my front door--so my shoes are typically of the low profile, trail variety. When I first pulled the Wave Rider 14 out of the box I thought I was going to be floating on a bed of marshmallows. To the contrary, several 6-10 mile runs have revealed the true nature of the shoe as a light and lively feeling, neutral ride trainer. One of the specific features I liked about this shoe was how much snap I felt in my leg turnover. I'm a midfoot to moderate heel striker so I wasn't sure how an elevated heel would affect my stride, but "the wave" really delivers in the energy return/assist department--rather than feeling like the heel was interfering, it felt like I had a little catapult launching my foot into the next stride. The fit was snug and secure throughout and contributes to an excellent overall performance.
Hi-Tec V-Lite Infinity HPI
Chris -
I tested the V-Lite Infinity HPI over two days on the Evolution Loop as part of a fastpacking trip. I mostly hiked in them, but also ran a few miles, with a 17 pound pack. As the name implies, the V-Light feels quite minimal on the foot--perfect for a long day of fastpacking. The upper is a lightweight breathable mesh with an "Ion Mask"--a flexible reinforcement welded to the upper that provides wrap around support in the heel and instep without increasing the weight or bulk. The Vibram outsole was just aggressive enough to feel secure and protective on most of the terrain (it felt a bit slick on wet granite at odd angles, but what doesn't?) in the Sierra backcountry while still maintaining a lightweight feel. The V-Lite was also extremely quick drying when worn during creek crossings, which is great for both security and speed.
Brooks Cascadia 6
View Men's ProductView Women's Product
Kozak -
I can't speak highly enough of this shoe, but I'll try. I have been in every incarnation of the Cascadia since version three and, even as numerous other outstanding shoe innovations appear on the market, the Cascadia remains my primary go-to shoe. It is the only shoe I have raced trail ultras in for 3 years. I feel it is one of the most versatile shoes in the trail running arsenal. I have used it for going long, short, fast, slow, on smooth dirt roads and trails, technical and steep trails, multi-day fastpacking trips and off-trail peak bagging involving 3rd and 4th class rock. I even once raced a road 10K in them in a pinch and although obviously not the ideal shoe for the situation, the point is they performed exceptionally well as a substitute. From paved roads to rocky summits, that is quite a range.
The Cascadia has a very grippy outsole, providing excellent traction in all conditions and a flexible underfoot feel for a smooth ride from heel or mid-foot strike to toe-off. The lace feeds through a loop on the tongue, preventing it from slipping to the side, an issue in some of the earlier renditions.
This is also a great fastpacking shoe, for those multi-day run/hikes when you are covering a lot of terrain with anywhere from 10-20 pounds on your back. Its low profile provides a stable feel even though it is technically a neutral shoe.
The bottom line: if I was stranded on the proverbial island (with hundreds of miles of trails, of course) with only one pair of shoes, the Cascadias would be my choice.
Inov-8 RocLite 268
View ProductTracy Bahr -
Light and comfortable! The RocLite 268 is a great neutral trail shoe with nice traction, and has very soft upper materials, which gives it a slipper-like feel. Put 'em on and forget about 'em!
Inov-8 Roclite 295
View ProductRyan -
A High Sierra classic. This shoe provides me the best of both worlds with a light and low-profile feel, yet insanely beefy traction that holds up against trail, talus, scree and snow. The Roclite 295 is my go-to shoe for serious runs in the high country.
CAMP ED Micro Jacket
View ProductKozak -
I love this piece, in all aspects of style, fit and function. The small fit me perfectly, even in sleeve length, which is a rarity as my body type definitely falls outside the "average" male range. Unless the conditions are really harsh (as they were on a recent crossing of Muir Pass when I was psyched to have it on), this 680-fill goose down jacket with hood is a bit too warm when moving fast along the trail but is the perfect item to have along for a cozy evening at camp (and to ward off the morning chill while eating breakfast and breaking camp) on a fastpack trip. With a sizeable internal zippered pocket and external hand pockets there is plenty of room for storing gloves, beanies, energy bars, etc. The jacket also comes with a convenient stuff sack (if necessary for space-saving the jacket could easily be stuffed into an even smaller sack than what it comes with) which allows it to be used as a very comfortable pillow.
If I was heading out on a one-day mountain run I would probably opt for something like the Patagonia Down Shirt, sacrificing some warmth for compressibility into the size of an apple; however, for any multi-day fastpack, or outings in the shoulder seasons when the weather is potentially colder and stormier, this CAMP piece is worth much more than the 12oz it weighs.
Tracy Bahr -
Light, packable AND has a nice fit! Wear it in the mountains, or around town! Us ladies do still like to feel pretty in the mountains...so more colors please!
Ryan -
Sleek and ultralight, yet extremely warm and functional, the ED Micro Jacket is a solid choice for any time of the year. Filled with 650+ white-goose down, the ED Micro Jacket will keep you cozy as a standalone layer during summer alpine pursuits or layered under a shell while shredding the slopes in the winter. CAMP has added a hood with cincher cords to further keep out the cold. The versatility is further increased with the use of CAMP's proprietary Araneum fabric, which means that this jacket will hold up against the elements better than comparable down jackets. The ED Micro Jacket is just for you if you are seeking a year-round insulated jacket that means all business.
Chris -
This down jacket with hood was an instant favorite. The cut of the jacket provides good freedom of movement without bulk. The 650 fill down packs very well and lofts up immediately. Made from the same windproof Areneum fabric as the Magic jacket, the jacket feels warm instantly upon wearing. Packed into its storage bag it also makes a fine pillow.
CAMP Magic Jacket & Pants
View JacketView Pants
Kozak -
These 2 pieces together weigh only 7 oz (4 for jacket, 3 for pants) and all but disappear (maybe that's why they call them "magic") when compressed down into their own built in stuff sacks, meaning there is no reason why you wouldn't take these along on any mountain outing, no matter how short and no matter how benign the weather, as a "just in case" precaution against be caught with your pants, not down, but altogether missing. I know I'm going to be taking them along on all future mountain runs! With nothing on my legs but the Magic Pants my legs stayed plenty warm during a horizontal sleet and snow-fest above 11000' near Muir Pass.
Both pieces are made with a proprietary Araneum fabric that is uncoated but still windproof and water-resistant. This makes them very breathable and all but eliminates the clammy, sticky-feeling common with most shells. The jacket is full-zip, allowing for a wide range of ventilation and the pants have zippers that go up to knee-height making them easy to get on and off over any footwear.
In summary, two words: must haves!
Tracy Bahr -
Magic Pants: Light and comfortable, even during exercise! I normally avoid putting on my rain/wind pants like the plague - even when it is totally raining - because of that sweaty and sticky plastic bag feeling. I wore the Magic Pant almost continuously for two days on the Evolution Loop and liked them more at the finish than when we started!
Ryan -
The Magic jacket and pants will offer those seeking to travel light with some great protection against all but the worst of conditions. These items held up well in a white-out blizzard, though they might not keep you fully dry in a downpour. CAMP's Araneum fabric provides some unexpected warmth from these items despite both the jacket and pants stuffing down (via their integrated stuff sacks- a huge plus as you do not need worry about keeping track of a separate stuff sack) to the size of your fist.
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Chris - CAMP Magic 4 Runner Jacket & Magic Pants
I had already been a very satisfied user of the CAMP Magic jacket and pants for a solid year of trail running when I got my hands on the "4 Runner" version. Constructed of the same windproof and extremely lightweight and packable Araneum material, the Magic 4 Runner jacket is a hoodless, pit and back-vented version that folds up into its own very compact pocket/fanny pack--a feature that means you won't leave it at home because you can't decide weather you want to carry it or not.
Araneum is very good at blocking wind, but it also does a great job of trapping body heat-- something I learned during an unexpectedly cold, wet, windy, and snowy 50 mile trail race in the Ortega Mountains of Southern California. It should be noted that Araneum is not waterproof, but it does an okay job of shedding light precip and then drying via body heat very quickly. Also, the weave of the Araneum is so tight that it worked well as a bug shield against some very aggressive late season mosquitos in LeConte Canyon.
The Magic jacket and pants are so compact and lightweight, they always come with me on backcountry runs--you never know when circumstances will force you out after dark or even through the night, and having this layer could mean the difference between total misery or just a "casual epic."
Magic Jacket:
Pros- Ideal for fast endeavors where you will have the jacket on in the event of a storm. I would not like to hang out in the rain at camp with it on, attempting to protect a down insulating layer. But for climbing, running, fast hiking, summer backpacking, ski touring it is unbeatable. Warmth to weight ratio is outstanding and the hood is KEY! Perfect sizing in the chest, slightly short in the arms for climbing with it on.
Cons- Understandably not very weather resistant for more than a quick shower, but if the sun pops out afterwards it will be dry in seconds.
Magic Pants:
Pros-Love the velcro at the cuffs, and the zippers to get on over shoes. Interested to see if it can slide on over ski boots. Seemed to be a good cut with minimal baggage area. Didn't even think about snagging during some willow bushwhacking endeavors.
Cons-Seemingly too much fabric at the waist and takes on a diaper appearance.
Terri Fischer Backpacking Guide, Sierra Mountain Guides -
Great for cutting down the wind. I wore the jacket even when it was questionably too warm and was comfortable. Breathed well enough. I like the built in stuff sack. Light and easily packable. Not suited for more than a light sierra sprinkle. The pants were surprisingly warm for how thin and both seemed to be pretty tear resistant. Good greenhouse effect.
CAMP Windmit'n
View ProductKozak -
These babies are the size and weight of a teabag and work great in a pinch by themselves or as a windproof shell to wear over a pair of gloves when the wind cranks up and the temps plummet. You could put these things in the side pocket of a pair of running shorts and not even know they were there. They come equipped with a built-in stuff sack making them easier to keep track of. A very handy, virtually weightless addition to anyone's essential gear list.
Tracy Bahr -
Light...no excuse for not bringing along! They are great over a glove liner, and more effective for wind than precipitation.
Ryan -
A true essential for backcountry blitzkriegs, the CAMP Windmit'ns are insanely light and compact. The Windmitn's weather-resistant construction, when in combination with just thin gloves, will get the job done in all but the worst of conditions the backcountry can throw at you. Those seeking to save on space will love the integrated stuff sack, which allows the Windmit'n to pack down to the size of a tea bag.
Chris -
Part of the extremely lightweight, compact, and functional "Essentials" line the WindMit'n delivered during an epic period of winter-like weather while hiking over Muir Pass. While the Araneum was not waterproof, with my hands balled in the mittens my heat was largely preserved via the windproofness of the fabric trapping a warm air layer against my hands. With the whole package about the size (but weighing less than) a couple of gels, you'd be crazy not to have these along at all times.
Matt Irons Backpacking Guide, Sierra Mountain Guides -
Pros- Perfect for putting on over liners. Great for early morning runs. Seems to create a humid layer inside which keeps hand suprisingly warm.
Cons- Size 2 is huuuuge. Slick fabric is not easy to grab things with, finger slits inside may prove useful.
CAMP M3 Light Pack
Kozak -
This 30L, 1 lb 12 oz ripstop nylon constructed pack is exactly what I have been looking for to replace my outdated, decade-old Ultimate Direction SpeeDemon pack. Although it is billed as an alpinism/ski mountaineering/hiking pack it functions equally well as a multi-day fastpacking pack. I had a feeling I was going to like it from the moment I first put it on and two days later that feeling was fully validated.
The pack rides well, staying squarely above the hips, with the weight evenly distributed across the shoulders, back and hips, and without constantly needing adjustment due to the jostling motion of fast hiking or running. The pack is very comfortable too with raised mesh backing that allows for some ventilation between the pack and your back.
There are two handy, small vertical, zippered pockets on the shoulder straps and one on the waist belt that will fit a compact digital camera, gels, bars, etc., the items you want to have readily accessible without having to stop and take off the pack. One of the coolest features is the "backdoor access," a dual-zippered opening along the back of the pack between the raised mesh padding that allows for easy access of items buried deep in the pack that would be difficult to get at from the lid. A zippered compartment that sits on top of the pack when the lid is closed and the pack synched down is a great place to store items you may need before the day is through and you're ready to fully unload your pack, such as compressible storm gear (the Magic Jacket & Pants!), headlamp, food.
All told this pack is a great addition to the myriad pack options available and has enough storage capacity to disappear for a week-plus of light and fast mountain travel.
Tracy Bahr -
Light with near perfect capacity for fastpacking and climbing in decent weather months. Suggestions: 1. internal sleeve for water bladder 2. softer shoulder straps and waist belt 3. pockets on both sides of waist belt 4. larger capacity pockets...once I put the pack on, those little pockets got even littler!
Ryan -
Those seeking a highly functional, ultralight pack for lightning pursuits look no further than the M3 Light pack. The backdoor entry zipper is extremely useful for quick access to items packed deep into the pack- no more unloading from the top to find that much needed layer! The ventilated shoulder straps make for an extremely comfortable fit, and CAMP has added multiple straps for carrying your essential gear for those more ambitious pursuits. Those seeking durability beware, the "ripstop" fabric can take quite a beating with minimal effort- the M3 light may not be the right pack for you if you find that you tend to be hard on your gear.
Chris -
At only 1 pound 12 ounces the M3 Light pack delivered on its name, but carried as comfortably as a much more fully padded pack. One of my favorites features of the M3 is the "backdoor" opening nested between the back supports, which allowed me to grab gear or food out without opening the top of the pack and digging down. I carried 17 pounds very comfortably with little bounce for fastpacking--even running a few sections it carried very well and was not a fatigue factor. The only thing I'd change on this pack is adding slightly larger hip-belt pockets so they could carry an energy bar or other essentials. Once the hip belt is wrapped around the existing pockets become almost unusable for much more than lib balm and an energy gel.
Matt Irons Backpacking Guide, Sierra Mountain Guides -
Pros- The pack carries extremely well within a 20-25lb weight max. External straps seem to be luxurious, with a fantastic weight belt. The wire frame more than astounded me and is worth the few extra ounces.
Cons- As with most packs, the strap lengths seem to be designed for the average (thick) human rather than the thinner framed folk that more than likely use a 'fastpack'. The straps were all maxed out on my frame. The hip adjustments and load lifters were similarly useless as they were maxed out. Fabric seems to tear easily and stitching should be more reinforced on the highly abused areas. Although I was careful when placing down my pack on rock and had no issues, DEFINITELY would not stand up to rock routes.
Terri Fischer Backpacking Guide, Sierra Mountain Guides -
Comfortable, light, good size for a short fastpack trip. The only thing I thought was missing was a internal webbing loop to hold a camel back. I used the loop from the underside of the top lid, which worked but was a bit awkward. Maybe a sleeve to hold the bladder, but I'm sure it was to cut down the weight. It wasn't necessary. I like the pack and would use it often. After seeing some of the tears others had, I'm not sure about it being strong enough to carry skis.
Klymit Inertia X-Lite Sleeping Pad
View ProductKozak -
Admittedly, I've only spent one restless backcountry night on this pad and need to give it further testing to be completely fair, but I have my doubts about this pad. Yes, it is super-light and, yes, it is super-compact, but is it that much more so than some of the other ultra-light 3/4 length pads out there, to justify the fact that at least a third of the surface area of the pad has been removed?
Certainly, the concept behind the design makes perfect sense, in theory. Someone lying on their back would have maximal ground contact and pressure at their head, shoulders and hips. Keep the padding there and remove as much of the rest as possible.
In reality, if you're anything like me, you've never been a back sleeper and even if you could fall asleep lying on your back you shift around so much during the night that it's nearly impossible to keep everything properly aligned.
Even if you do manage to stay on the pad with all key body pressure points on the proper corresponding sections of the pad, there is still the fact that the cut-out sections are allowing the cold of the ground below easy access to you and a seemingly quicker onset of the morning chill.
This extremely minimalist pad will work for anyone who sleeps soundly on their back and never moves once asleep. For everyone else, I'm not so sure. For me, I'll most likely stiff with a full-surface, 3/4 length pad and deal with slightly more volume and weight in my pack. It's insignificant to me in the face of a good night's sleep.
Howie Schwartz - IFMGA Ski & Mountain Guide , Sierra Mountain Guides
Tip of the hat to the folks at Klymit for thinking way outside the box and coming up with a great innovation in sleeping pad design. I love this 3/4 length pad, mostly because I don't know I'm carrying it, but also because it is has a high comfort to weight ratio. I'd rather sleep on this any night than on a narrow piece of compressed ensolite integrated into a pack frame. Using this pad I use the pack at my feet. I am only 5'7" or so, so it is all I ever need. Unfortunately, I can't call this pad my goto pad for all situations and seasons due to the holes, which may allow sleeping bag loft to expand under the sleeper, but also allow a sleeping bad to contact wet ground, snow, or a tent floor with moisture on it.. The holes are difficult to get and keep lined up with the areas that need most padding. It is common to wake up with a hip or elbow in contact with the ground. The valve is the best on the market and it takes very few breaths to inflate. This is the lightest inflatable mattress on Earth and I'll keep it in my quiver until they come up with the new model. I have given them some design improvement ideas and they are a small enough company that perhaps they can pull them off. I hope so!
Outback 10:
Tracy Bahr -
After a summer of use for 10 to 55 mile mountain runs and hikes, I think this is a great pack! It is light and has a much appreciated simple design. The storage capacity has been perfect for the long runs, allowing me to be a little safer in the mountains with my extra clothing layers and FOOD! My only suggestion is that I wish there were pockets on both sides of the waist belt and they were further forward for easier access.
XLC 490 Crampons:
View ProductTracy Bahr -
Light and easy to adjust, I have put them to use climbing up Contact Pass in mixed conditions worn on boots and descending from Mount Whitney on ice and wind-pack snow worn on running shoes. In both situations they felt very secure and effective - fun to use! I look forward to taking these crampons out more this winter!
Ryan -
The XLC 490 crampons and Corsa ice axe are being dubbed as the world's lightest crampons and ice axe, and one can truly feel the difference in weight at first use of them. These items are so light and low-profile, yet they retain the important qualities one should seek when purchasing crampons and an ice axe for general glacier and snow gully travel. The XLC crampons offer a great strap-on system that is compatible with all but the most minimal of shoes. A great option for fastpackers and dayhikers.
Vargo Titanium Alcohol Stove
View Product
Ryan -
Though extremely light, my first impressions were quite poor of the stove. We experienced multiple pressurization issues over the course of just a couple of nights of use. The price tag for this stove is very steep ($30), given the fact that a homemade version could cost one close to nothing.
Howie -
Alcohol stoves are about as simple as stoves get. The key is to have the right shape and holes to allow oxygen exchange and proper pressurization. It's not rocket science though. The time it would take me to make one of these out of a soda can is well worth the cash to buy this rig. It is made out of titanium, so you hardly know you are holding it in your hand with your eyes closed. It also has some nifty folding feet and pot supports so it can be compact enough to fit inside a small mug or repair kit. The feet can be pushed into soft ground for added stability.
These stoves do require a learning curve to use but for summer, low-mid elevation, ultralight mountain travel, for days to weeks at a time, this system cannot be beat for overall carrying efficiency, if you are willing to wait a little longer for your coffee in the morning.
Klymit Inertia X-Frame ultralight sleeping pad
View ProductChris -
When I first pulled out the Inertia X-Frame I thought to myself "the future is here!" The innovative design puts padding only where you need it and allows the loft of your sleeping bag to insulate through the empty spaces in the pad. The first night I used it, I inflated it by mouth and then pressurized it with the included bulb pump. I ended up sleeping horribly on it-waking up off the pad over and over. I woke up the next morning feeling a bit worked (after our 26 mile first day) and disappointed. The second night I used it, I only inflated it by mouth. Right away I could tell that the pad was staying in place much better, and I was just as insulated. That night I slept with no problems and realized that I may have unconsciously been worried about all the empty spaces in the pad which made me think I'd have to pressurize it until it was rigid. It definitely works better with less pressure--it simply hugs your shoulders and hips better which keeps you in position on the pad most effectively. The design really challenges your assumptions about what makes a sleeping pad work, but I won't hesitate to pack this pad for my next fastpacking trip--the proof is in the comfort while sleeping and the extreme compactness(smaller than a soda can) and light weight (less than 10 ounces for a full length pad!)
Howie -
This sleeping pad is the full length version of the Klymit X-Lite. Kudos to these innovators for figuring out how to improve a product that everyone needs by stripping it down and making it lighter. It is kind of like how we all know a donut is better than a Danish. Unfortunately, in this case they went a bit too far. The holes on this pad are way large. To keep from touching the ground you really need to be both an immobile back sleeper and the perfect height. One of our testers was able to make this pad work well by folding it in half and using their backpack under their feet. I guess you could bring 2 pads, eh? This one has the same drawbacks of the X-lite in terms of limitations on wet or snowy ground, but more so since the holes are larger. I think of this pad as a beta version of a product that they are going to create very soon that everybody is going to want. Until then I would steer clear of this pad. Go with the X-Lite for summer ultralight adventures, and get another pad for winter. Either that or plan to use this one with a second ensolite pad for a winter setup.
Brooks Cacadia III Shorts
Chris -
Cut slightly longer and roomier out of a nylon/spandex blend that is tough and not at all clingy, these shorts from Brooks offer much in the way of protection and versatility. You can run in them, swim in them (they dry very quickly,) fastpack, or just wear them to the store without looking like an obsessive runner type or showing more thigh than you want in genteel company. At first I thought I'd just use them for hiking and casual wear, but I've done multiple 20+ mile trail runs in them through terrain and cover where I wanted a bit more abrasion resistance and coverage than my usual "go to" running shorts (the Brooks Sherpa shorts) would provide. I half expected a bit of rubbing or a restrictive feeling, but they wear almost unnoticeably until you go plowing next to a patch of wildrose and pass through relatively unscathed. A moisture transferring liner and fully functional pockets round out these versatile shorts. Reflective logos at all aspects also make you a little easier to see if you run near cars at night. I highly recommend these shorts for any outdoor bipedal pursuits.
CAMP Trail Race Vest
Terri Fischer Backpacking Guide, Sierra Mountain Guides
It was very comfortable, light and moved well. Big enough for a camel back, snacks and wind gear. I liked the easy access chest pockets. I think it's a good product for trail running.
CAMP Xenon Trek Poles
View ProductTerri Fischer Backpacking Guide, Sierra Mountain Guides -
Since I am not an avid user of poles, I don't have much to compare to. They seemed strong enough with downward pressure on them. I like the idea of collapsing them down to put on your pack when not needed, so that's what I would probably get.