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96avs01

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Posts posted by 96avs01

  1. Noticed this recent post on the Eastern Sierra Avy site. Interesting to note that 3 of the 4 blades that didn't fail/distort are the Voile T6. Maybe not just marketing.

     

    Also interesting to see the BCA redesigned their shovel blade to a more 'wrap-around' style similar to the Voile.

  2. I have a WM Vapor that I purchased to replace a MH Phantom. I am much happier as the jacket is warmer and the Windstopper shell fabric has proven very durable in rock/vegetation abrasive environments (where the Phantom proved to be a liability after several large tears and subsequent repairs). My only gripe is that the Vapor only has two hand pockets, it would be nice if it had an interior 'Napoleon' pocket. The Vapor was also offered as a parka style for awhile, but the hood wasn't removable. One of my partners from the East Coast has the parka version and is quite satisfied. Believe only the jacket version is currently being produced. I would purchase Vapor again without hesitation, and I suspect it has the most durable shell fabric in the sub-1 lb. down jacket category.

  3. How much do non-guided trips typically cost an individual, not including any new gear needing purchasing?

     

    FWIW, spent an entire month in AK in June '06 for less than $1500 including airfare. Included West Butt ascent, backpacking in Denali SP, several nights hotel in Anchorage, rental car (after ascent), LOTS of post-climb beer, boat tour of Kenai Fjords.

  4. that's awesome! um, I'm just curious about the patagonia proprietary membrane and how breathable it has been for you? How do you use the jacket (skiing, climbing, etc...)?

     

    Breathability is as good as Goretex XCR, haven't used eVent so can't compare to it. The jacket has both pit zips and venting Napoleon pockets so I haven't had a problem with ventilation. I use the SE for in- and out-of-bounds snowboarding, splitboarding and ice climbing.

  5. Absolutely love mine! Have beaten the shit out of it for two seasons, and yet no snags/tears/wear spots. At purchase it was down to the SE and the Alpha SV. Alpha SV was heavier, and felt stiffer with less ventilation options, opted for the SE and never looked back. Have never experienced any issues with water repelency or ventilation/breathability.

  6. I'd call on those first... mtn tools is notorious for billing your CC before they actually ship the item. I bet they cant get them

     

    I've heard that a lot.

     

    Interesting, never had any problems with them although I have always ordered by phone. Definitely something to think about in the future.

  7. If anyone heads in that direction (via bootpack, skis, split, hands-n-knees, whatever) please post the conditions. Have a friend coming from D.C. that really wants to hit N. Sister and ideally Jeff the first week of June.

  8. I have used the Lhotse and the Super Alpinistas are definitely warmer, and would expect them to be warmer than the Summits. I have the Scarpa Triolet, which should be quite similar to the Freneys, and they are no where near as warm as the SAs. I haven't had a problem using the SAs with a vapor barrier for winter ascents and BC boardn in the Northern Sierra. Can't comment on the the Nepals, but the Nuptses should be even warmer than the SAs, but they are just a bit narrow for my foot type. My $0.02

     

    You might also consider the AKU Spider. Although I haven't used them personally, I have heard good things but they may not have the warmth you seek.

  9. Interesting to see Aerogel get to the market so quickly. I wonder if they are replacing the Ice 9000?

     

    Hope not, I am completely satisfied with my 9000s. The BOA doesn't allow you to 'zone' lace your boots, thus stuck with one tension throughout forefoot and upper ankle. This really sucks IMHO.

  10. Wow, that's an interesting boot to be sure. Amazing, but I think I'll let the test of time prove its durability. I believe Kevlar is a brittle fiber by nature (may be why it was never used as mantle?). Something leather has done for many generations. I'm actually more interested in this one: AKU Mach GTX

     

    Now that I've been more serious about getting my next boots, I've begun looking at the Nepal Extreme EVO GTX boots... again. I mean... if I'm going to get 4 season boots and want leather I'll never need another boot. So who has these and for how long?

     

    AKU Baltoro may be another option if your feet tend to run on the very warm end of the spectrum, and they are on sale if they meet your needs.

  11. For those reading these posts and have these boots, what trips have you done with these boots? Do you recommend them? Are they good for ice-climbing?

     

    Used them on Denali in June '06. They were so warm I could have left my overboots at home. They are the most comfortable double boot I have used. If my foot were a bit narrower I would opt for the LaSportiva Nuptse, but I definitely have a 'Vasque' foot type. Haven't used them ice climbing, but would expect them to perform adequately.

  12. The Raichle’s from your link look like good boots but they’re more comparable to my 3 season boots (Scarpa Triolet). I definitely want my winter boots to be insulated and able to take step in crampons. Front bail as well as rear. I am interested in those K4S’s though. Do you have them? Otherwise I’m still juggling the LaSportiva Lhotse and the Scarpa Summit GTX... and maybe, just maybe the Nepal.

     

    I have previously used the Lhotse and for me personally they are not warm enough to use as a winter boot. However, I tend to have cold toes so if you run warm they may suit your needs. I would opt for the K4S, they would be similar to the Vasque Super Alpinistas that I currently use for a winter boot. Not sure what size you need but they are currently on sale here.

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