MY NEW GEAR: 3 things I can't live without.

MY NEW GEAR: 3 things I can't live without.

This spring I cleaned out my basement and after disposing of many loads of junk, I felt the need to pat myself on the back and go shopping! I did have some specific needs, so research ensued and this is my wish list for the summer...

Rock Climbing-Petzl Corax Climbing Harness
The Cadillac Eldorado of harnesses is what my carcass needs to enjoy a day of hanging and this is it. With skier's legs I need adjustability but not too much bulk in the belt so I can actually bend over and see my feet once in a while. After 20 + days of climbing outside(really, we have a rain shadow in Washington, state secret!) I can say the Corax is saving my kidneys and allowing me to focus on climbing, not lack of circulation.


Ski Touring/Alpine Climbing-Grivel Alpine Pack
After months of physically examining dozens of packs, I caught an image on the internet of the new Grivel pack and I was hooked. Maybe it was the Italian accent, maybe because I had the previous generation of this pack and it lasted 700+ days of alpine climbing and skiing before it gave up keeping out water that I gave in to buying a new one. Thank the alpine gods Grivel figured out how to improve a great pack.

Key features that sold me:

• full length frontal zipper which opens from the top and bottom, perfect for ski touring(shovel, puffy jacket access) or climbing
• floating, removable top lid with over sized powder skirt for carrying extras into camp, then climbing with a stripped down pack for the ascent.
• Cordura material so your skis or ice tools will not shred the pack, maybe mountain lion will.

After several trips into the alpine with loads to a high camp, I am happy to report, I love the accent and the pack!


Travel-Outdoor Research Organizer
So I was looking for something to put some first aid supplies and toiletries in and I ordered the medium size kit. It arrived and immediately surpasses my expectations! Well designed compartments with differing zippers and mesh allow for great organization without feeling like you are dealing with nylon origami. Pen and card holders remind you that this is a travel organizer and can fly with you and your documents as well as your travel size toothpaste and deodorant.

You can find this harness and the products reviewed here at http://wwwfeatheredfriends.com. Well then thank you for your time, I hope you have a great summer and look forward to hearing from you!

Ski ya later,

Matt