Mountain Standards

The author climbing Hidden Gully (WI3-4, 650'), Smugglers' Notch, VT in early-season. [Photo] Sam Fox Knapp

Light, Low Profile and Hard to Break In: Arc’teryx Acrux AR Mountaineering Boots

by Chris Van Leuven

Chris Van Leuven reviews the Arc’teryx Acrux AR Mountaineering Boots, crafted to be the “lowest volume weatherproof double boot ever made,” the company says.

The Adidas Terrex Solo approach shoes after a season in Yosemite. [Photo] Josh Huckaby

Adidas Terrex Solo Approach Shoe 2016

by Josh Huckaby

YOSAR team member Josh Huckaby reviews the Adidas Terrex Solo approach shoes: “The Terrex Solos felt light on my feet, and have just enough support… Read More »Adidas Terrex Solo Approach Shoe 2016

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Ultamid 4 shelter: a lightweight, versatile and rugged pyramid tent

by Drew Thayer

Reviewer Drew Thayer notes, “The Ultamid 4 is currently the lightest option for a spacious, four-person shelter that can adapt to just about any conditions….… Read More »Hyperlite Mountain Gear Ultamid 4 shelter: a lightweight, versatile and rugged pyramid tent

Bluemlisalp traverse above Kandersteg, Bernese Alps. [Photo] Abacus Mountain Guides

Mammut Belay Chain: Strong Personal Tether for Anchoring

by Stewart M. Green

Climber and guidebook author Stewart M. Green reviews the Mammut Belay Chain: “Unlike the personal anchor systems made by Metolius, Sterling and Black Diamond that… Read More »Mammut Belay Chain: Strong Personal Tether for Anchoring

Tat removed from Recompense (5.9) at Cathedral Ledge, NH by the author in 2011. [Photo] Mike Lewis

Trango Piranha Knife: Sharp, Low Profile and Opens Bottles

by Mike Lewis

As a guide, I’m often asked what I carry on my harness. In addition to standard climbing hardware, plus prussic cords, a Tibloc, and a… Read More »Trango Piranha Knife: Sharp, Low Profile and Opens Bottles

Brooks-Range Drift 15 Down Sleeping Bag: Lightweight, Water-Resistant

by Drew Thayer

The insulation in the Brooks Range Drift 15 sleeping bag is treated with DownTek, a down coating that prevents the feathers from absorbing water. Since… Read More »Brooks-Range Drift 15 Down Sleeping Bag: Lightweight, Water-Resistant

The Merino Air Hoody: A Most-in-One Base Layer

by Mike Lewis

Recently I added Patagonia’s Merino Air Hoody base layer to my collection. Unlike my other merino wool items, The Air Hoody, with its fluffy appearance,… Read More »The Merino Air Hoody: A Most-in-One Base Layer

Mammut 8.7mm Serenity Dry: Light, Stiff and Specialized

by Mike Lewis

Although rope technology has greatly improved in the twenty-some years since I started climbing, I was still skeptical when a lime-green Mammut 8.7mm Serenity rope… Read More »Mammut 8.7mm Serenity Dry: Light, Stiff and Specialized

Ternua’s Loughor Puff Jacket: Recycled Warmth

by Andrew Councell

Instead of collecting new feathers, Neokdun recycles down that has been sterilized from old duvets in its special processing plant. The Spanish company Ternua works… Read More »Ternua’s Loughor Puff Jacket: Recycled Warmth

DMM Couloir ropes: great durability and water repellency

by Jess Roskelley

The rope is the single most important piece in your pack. During alpine climbs, the rope is subject to needle-sharp crampons, errant ice tools, rock… Read More »DMM Couloir ropes: great durability and water repellency

CAMP Speed 2.0 Helmet: One of the Best All-Arounders Available

by Andrew Councell

Maybe Jerry Seinfeld said it best in one of his stand-up bits when he said that the helmet is designed “to preserve a brain whose… Read More »CAMP Speed 2.0 Helmet: One of the Best All-Arounders Available

Iceline Jacket: a durable, weatherproof shell for winter climbing

by Drew Thayer

Ice climbing is about high-energy output in cold, wet conditions. Adapting to changing weather can be as much of a struggle as the climbing itself… Read More »Iceline Jacket: a durable, weatherproof shell for winter climbing