Most climbing is done in a harness, and when you decide which one is right for your needs, the SITTA should be high on the list. Despite the strikes against it (high price, no adjustable leg loops, easy tangling in a pack), this is an exceptional harness that is comfortable, versatile, and plenty light.go to full review
A great ice tool for steep ice and multi-pitch ice (use with the optional leash). Lightweight, easy swing and offers great hooking potential with the high-clearance shaft.go to full review
SCARPA has really made something for everyone with this shoe in three different styles. A unique feature that they all share is SCARPA’s patent pending Bi-Tension rand. This innovative use of the rand acts like a reverse slingshot, pulling power from the toes rather than jamming them forward. The rand anchors under the toe box, giving focused power and a surprising amount of comfort. Another plus they all share is a minimal amount of rubber compared to many rock shoes, making them quite..." go to full review
There are so many ice climbing tools on the market and deciding on which one to buy is about as tough as choosing what dress to wear on Saturday night. The Nomic is the equivalent of that little black dress that is perfect for every occasion. Do yourself a favor and choose the one tool that does it all. I have a personal philosophy that if you’re going to buy something, buy the top of line and you won’t regret it. One swing of the Nomic and I promise you will have no regrets and that’s what..." go to full review
Perhaps one of the most important gear buying decisions you can make is the climbing helmet. When it comes to choosing a helmet, there are a many options available, but really there are only two types of helmets: light weight foam (like your bike helmet) and hardshell options. Since I’m pretty tough on my gear, I prefer a hardshell helmet like the Petzl Elia. Not only is it the most comfortable hardshell helmet I’ve worn, it’s durably constructed and dare I say stylish. It’s a great all..." go to full review
In the fall of 2014, when Kitty Calhoun and I made our gear list for climbing Tangerine Trip, a big-wall aid route on El Cap in Yosemite, it was I who said “I got the lead rope”. I had been climbing with my 9.8mm Evolution Velocity for a summer and it had proven itself with strength, durability, and handling. Just what you need when you’re about to head up the biggest piece of rock there is in the lower 48!go to full review
Petzl has done it again, leading the industry with the first harness to incorporate Dyneema into an ultra-lightweight, full strength harness. Weighing in at only 150 grams (5.29 ounces), the Altitude harness is the lightest in the world. You can bet you’ll see others follow suit in the coming years to catch up to Petzl’s innovation. Currently other’s in it’s class weigh in at 215 to 260 g. (9.17 oz).go to full review
If you’re looking for a great all around crampon to tackle the ice, snow and rock then look no further than the Petzl Dartwin. The Dartwin is ideal for vertical and steep waterfall ice climbing. You’ll find that it’s an excellent choice for kicking around the Ouray Ice Park as well as backcountry ice climbing destinations from the Rockies to Iceland.go to full review
I'm super psyched about this pad-- it's a great size both folded and opened up, the materials are super burly, and it has reliable options for carrying your goods. It's also not too heavy and the support system is comfy enough to imagine trekking it in a long ways. Well done Metolius.go to full review
One of the things I love about Maxim Ropes (including the Airliner) is that they have low static and dynamic elongation without sacrificing too much impact force. Ever get tired of pulling up your rope to get back on route, then letting go and sinking down ten more feet? Or how about top-roping a route and falling at the second or third bolt only to drop to the ground-- even with a tight belay. The Airliner is not nearly this stretchy (no bungie cord), and yet still gives a soft catch.go to full review