Peak Mountain Guides Blog

After using the K2 Carbon/Aluminum Lockjaw ski poles for backcountry skiing and ski mountaineering this season we have found them to be one of the best adjustable backcountry ski poles we have ever used.  These poles are fully featured for skiing while also having a built in inclinometer, snow depth markings, and an incredibly easy-to-use adjustment lever for tuning in the perfect height.  We give them 4 out of 5 stars!  The following gear review of the K2 Lockjaw Carbon/Aluminum poles describes the merits of these fine ski poles.

The K2 Carbon/Aluminum Lockjaw Poles receive 4 out of 5 stars in our gear review.

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After extensive testing we have found the Petzl Attache 3D locking carabiner to be one of the best lightweight locking carabiners we have used. It is equally suited for rock climbing, ice climbing, alpine climbing, and ski mountaineering.  We give it 4.5 out of 5 stars!  The following gear review describes the merits of this fine carabiner.

The Petzl Attache 3D receives 4.5 out of 5 stars in our gear review

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The folks at Wild Snow recently evaluated common alpine touring bindings to determine their relative stiffness, a quality which is correlated to ski performance.  A stiff binding will prevent the feeling of “slop” in a turn, especially when skiing firm surfaces, breakable crust, or chunky crud.  If you want to get the most out of your equipment it is probably worthwhile to choose a binding that is relatively stiff, as long as the binding’s other qualities like touring stride, overall weight, and ski crampon compatibility are acceptable.  The results of the Wild Snow test are listed below as well as our comments on a few of these bindings we really like.

The Marker Tour F12 - The Test Winner

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I have had the pleasure of using the Patagonia Nano Puff Pullover in my layering system this winter.  After using it extensively for backcountry skiing and ice climbing in a variety of conditions, I am giving this garment a rating of 4.5/5 stars for its incredible versatility, minimal weight, and thoughtful design.  In the following post I’ll describe the merits of this fine piece and offer my opinion on its ideal uses.

The Patagonia Nano Puff Pullover. Both men's and women's shown.

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