96avs01

Check this out.

Bump

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.

Planning to hit Jeff and N Sister in a couple of weeks. Just wondering how things are shaping up (i.e. mountain/plowing conditions). All beta is greatly appreciated! TIA

Scarpa Triolet

Nice work Dan!!! N side of Shasta looks far worse than I had envisioned. Any chance you happened to get good look at the SE aspects?

Has anyone used a DMM Super Couloir harness? Really appreciate any first-hand feedback. TIA

Love my Triolet, no complaints whatsoeva!!! Have really taken a beating and are still in great shape.

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.

Sounds like we have a similar foot type. I have been very happy with my 9000s. My only complaint is that they tend to be hard on laces, so be sure to carry a spare or some 2mm cord.

Their hardware with Paris expedition sled from REI has treated me well!

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.

Throwing my vote for the slightly heavier, but IMHO more durable Scarpa Triolet.

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.

Just in...BOA sucks for snowboard boots and likely every other application.

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.

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.

The "T6" Voile XLM I had was a piece of shit. Maybe it was operator error.

I didn't have that experience with mine. It may be because it is a heat-moldable liner, and can shrink a little during molding. But that big a difference makes me wonder if the liner is the correct size for the shell.

I had one with the quick-release hose connection. Biggest POS I have ever owned! Constantly either leaking or coming undone while snowboarding.

I've seen a Voile shovel fail at the same joint and had a Life-Link fail at the same joint. All from improper usage. Just my $0.02 Not sure what the improper usage is that you are referring to, but I have put my Voile through the exact same usage as the BCA's without the slightest hint of failing, but it is a T6 blade

Here's another option to consider, AKU Spider GTX. Haven't used them personally, but I bet the folks at AMH can give you some first-hand knowledge.

I've had 2 BCA Traverse shovels fail, and have a partner that has had 1 fail. All failures were at the junction of the blade with the hosel (not sure if that's the correct term, but we'll borrow it from the golfing world. I have found the Voile shovels to be da shit, especially the T6 blade. Just my $0.02

x2

Since I am a boarder, I despise Heavenly...too much paddling. If you are going to hit the slopes on a weekend and want to avoid the crowds I highly recommend Homewood. Nice terrain, usually no lift lines, good tree skiing, always some untracked snow somewhere, and the most sheltered on windy days. If you want the best skiing/boarding in Tahoe drive a little bit south to Kirkwood, where they always have the most snow. U could also get in some XC in the Round Top area to the East of Kirkwood. I would avoid Mt. Rose unless it is a primo powder day, then hit it for sure and check out a double black area called "The Chutes". Diamond Peak is a little small. Northstar is a great family resort, but there is always a shitload of people. Sugar Bowl is nice, but if you are going to drive that far from the lake head to Kirkwood.