February 2008

Gear Guide Home CLIMBING GEAR LA SPORTIVA SOLUTION There isn’t a bouldering problem the Solution can’t solve. The snug-fitting, high-performance climber has a newly designed molded heel cup and patent-pending Lock Harness that’s equipped to hook unlikely dime edges. Our tester loved the quick closure system that enabled an easier insert than most climbing shoes. $145. FIVE TEN ANASAZI LACE Reputed to have been on some of the world’s record-breaking climbs, the Anasazi is an ultra-gripper on vertical faces that is ready for the most precise routes. The breathable synthetic upper and carefully constructed side seams also provide more comfort than the average climber. A bonus to animal lovers: this shoe is totally vegan. $140. BLACK DIAMOND TRACER HELMET Because we know it’s usually hot in the South, we recommend the Tracer and its 14 vents to keep your head cool and clear for the next ascent. It’s also one of the lightest options out there to keep your melon intact—made with an EPS foam and polycarbonate shell that keeps you moving fast. $90. MAMMUT FOCUS HARNESS A solid all-around harness, the Focus is high on function and low on frills. A great option for beginners, the slide buckles on the waist and the legs are easy to adjust, while the Y leg loops have a simple, comfortable fit. $44. PRANA STRETCH ZION PANT The Stretch Zion is all about freedom of movement, thanks to the limber nylon that dries fast—a perk when the Southern crags start to bake. If things heat up too much, you can roll up the legs and fasten with convenient snaps. $67. PRANA SACRED MOVEMENT TEE In this shirt you’ll not only feel good on the rock, but you’ll also feel good about what you’re doing for the rock. All proceeds from this quick-drying poly performance tee go to the Access Fund. $28. METOLIUS PORTA-CORD PACK A do-it-all climbing pack/rope bag hybrid, the Porta-Cord has both a top-load and duffel-style side opening, as well as a hydration pocket. It’s a perfect all-purpose option for the mild weather of the Appalachians, where we don’t often need a technical summit pack. $55. ARC’TERYX VAPOR HARNESS Let’s face it. A harness is strangling a pretty important area of your body, so why not expect a little comfort with the required safety? The Vapor has got you covered with a design that tapers thickness to the front of your waist and legs, which also get fleece-lined adjustable loops. $100. MAMMUT CLIME JACKET For chilly, windy days at the crag Mammut makes a high-performance lightweight sofshell that has an elastic stretch for easy movment, so you won’t be inhibited when you’re reaching for that next ledge. $179. PETZL ZEPHYR ROPE The Zephyr is Petzl’s most durable rope—a 10.33mm monster that is perfect for new climbers and those looking for a long lasting rope to go the distance. $210. MISTY MOUNTAIN CADILLAC HARNESS A small operation in the North Carolina High Country that makes limited product every year, so they can pay close attention to detail, Misty Mountain is high quality gear made by local climbers. The Cadillac is Misty’s signature piece—a consistent favorite around the region and beyond for its versatility. It can handle sport climbs, but it’s best used on trad routes, as it is equipped with a wide, padded inner waistbelt and tapered leg loops for comfortable belays. Our tester appreciated the six big gear loops. $95. BLACK DIAMOND ATC GUIDE We sent this one out to the New River Gorge, where our testers appreciated the versatility. The ATC can be used as a typical belay plate/rappel device, an ascender, and an auto locking belay device when attached directly to the anchor. It also allows you to belay two people at once when belaying from the top. $19. MISTY MOUNTAIN HIGHLANDER CRASH PAD Be ready to fall when you lose that crimp. The Highlander has a 3’ X 4’ landing zone and 3.4” thick dual density foam padding, so you can count on it to take a hit. It’s also triple-stitched in the corners, so it won’t rip when the big dogs eat it. $180.

February 2008

GEAR GUIDE 2008 : SNOW SPORTS

GEAR GUIDE 2008 : PADDLING

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February 2008

GEAR GUIDE 2008 : SNOW SPORTS

GEAR GUIDE 2008 : PADDLING

GEAR GUIDE 2008 : CLIMBING

GEAR GUIDE 2008 : BIKING

GEAR GUIDE 2008 : RUNNING

Is Into the Wild’s Chris McCandless a Hero?

TUNES: BARREL HOUSE MAMAS

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