Gear Of The Year 2009 - Part 2
Outdoor Research Alibi Jacket
Although some outdoor jackets emblazoned with logos of dead birds or South American mountains cost more, they don’t match the climbing performance of Outdoor Research’s Alibi Jacket. Thanks to its hybrid fabric construction, the Alibi delivers waterproof/breathable weather protection in the shoulders and hood whereas the stretchy and abrasion-resistant body panels provide exceptional breathability and torso warmth. Other functional features include hem-to-pit zippers (the best venting option in the industry), a built-in helmet liner and thumb-loop wrist cuffs. This is a very impressive jacket and the perfect choice for climbers seeking real-world performance rather than ego-stroking brand statements.
Although some outdoor jackets emblazoned with logos of dead birds or South American mountains cost more, they don’t match the climbing performance of Outdoor Research’s Alibi Jacket. Thanks to its hybrid fabric construction, the Alibi delivers waterproof/breathable weather protection in the shoulders and hood whereas the stretchy and abrasion-resistant body panels provide exceptional breathability and torso warmth. Other functional features include hem-to-pit zippers (the best venting option in the industry), a built-in helmet liner and thumb-loop wrist cuffs. This is a very impressive jacket and the perfect choice for climbers seeking real-world performance rather than ego-stroking brand statements.
Organic Artist’s Tote
Built by a small team of dedicated climbers, Organic is an increasingly rare example of an outdoor company that actually builds all of its products in North America. Their impeccably made crash pads, chalkbags and bouldering bags reflect Organic’s commitment to functional design, unrivalled construction and lasting value. But perhaps it’s their simple Artist’s Tote that best exemplifies the company’s ideals. Made of durable fabrics and sporting a three-inch wide shoulder strap the Artist’s Tote is perfect for carrying bouldering gear and guidebooks or other more urban-oriented kit. A single zippered pocket hidden by the main flap provides secure storage for keys, wallet and iPod. The bag’s proportions are flawless and the uncluttered construction is a refreshing change from over-built outdoor industry shoulder bags. Low production runs and customizable aesthetics ensure individuality in a world of me-too bags. This is an exceptional product from a real boutique brand. Get one.
Built by a small team of dedicated climbers, Organic is an increasingly rare example of an outdoor company that actually builds all of its products in North America. Their impeccably made crash pads, chalkbags and bouldering bags reflect Organic’s commitment to functional design, unrivalled construction and lasting value. But perhaps it’s their simple Artist’s Tote that best exemplifies the company’s ideals. Made of durable fabrics and sporting a three-inch wide shoulder strap the Artist’s Tote is perfect for carrying bouldering gear and guidebooks or other more urban-oriented kit. A single zippered pocket hidden by the main flap provides secure storage for keys, wallet and iPod. The bag’s proportions are flawless and the uncluttered construction is a refreshing change from over-built outdoor industry shoulder bags. Low production runs and customizable aesthetics ensure individuality in a world of me-too bags. This is an exceptional product from a real boutique brand. Get one.
Five Ten Women’s Guide
This year Five Ten introduced a women’s specific version of their popular approach shoe. While gender specific shoes are not new it is rare when the female version surpasses the performance of the original male model. This is what happened with the Women’s Guide primarily because of the improved women’s last that avoids the notoriously baggy fit of the men’s Guide and the addition of a slight rocker sole for a more natural gait. Five Ten avoided any unnecessary performance-robbing sissyfication often seen on women’s products and used the same durable leather uppers and sticky Stealth soles found on the men’s shoe.
This year Five Ten introduced a women’s specific version of their popular approach shoe. While gender specific shoes are not new it is rare when the female version surpasses the performance of the original male model. This is what happened with the Women’s Guide primarily because of the improved women’s last that avoids the notoriously baggy fit of the men’s Guide and the addition of a slight rocker sole for a more natural gait. Five Ten avoided any unnecessary performance-robbing sissyfication often seen on women’s products and used the same durable leather uppers and sticky Stealth soles found on the men’s shoe.
Ruff Wear DoubleBack Harness
Accessing the base of many Ontario crags usually requires either a short rappel or some technical down climbing. And while this type of approach is not a big deal for most human climbers, getting Fido to the base is not so straight forward. Thankfully Ruff Wear’s new DoubleBack Harness solves this dilemma by bringing rock climbing harness technology to the dog harness world. Using Black Diamond designed buckles and harness grade webbing the DoubleBack Harness allows climbers to safely lower or belay a dog to the base of the cliff and haul Fido out at the end of the day. Once at the base, clip a leash to the DoubleBack Harness and use it as an alternative to traditional collars. Man’s best friend will love you.
Accessing the base of many Ontario crags usually requires either a short rappel or some technical down climbing. And while this type of approach is not a big deal for most human climbers, getting Fido to the base is not so straight forward. Thankfully Ruff Wear’s new DoubleBack Harness solves this dilemma by bringing rock climbing harness technology to the dog harness world. Using Black Diamond designed buckles and harness grade webbing the DoubleBack Harness allows climbers to safely lower or belay a dog to the base of the cliff and haul Fido out at the end of the day. Once at the base, clip a leash to the DoubleBack Harness and use it as an alternative to traditional collars. Man’s best friend will love you.
