Outdoor Retailer Roundup: Mammut Safety Harness and Arc'teryx Life Shell Jacket
Plus, winter boots from Teva that fold as small as regular shoes!
What another incredible day for innovative discoveries! Day 2 at the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market promised to enhance my upcoming fun and adventure.
Super Shell – Arc’teryx Beta FL Jacket
I’ve recently earned the name “Arc” due to my obsession with Arc’teryx gear. Starting in fall 2012, they’ll release the women’s version of the Beta FL Jacket built with GoreTex’s new Active Shell giving it a super lightweight feeling. The slim fit increases breathability and warmth in any condition, and it allows you to move without bunching material when you’re climbing. My eleven-year-old Arc’teryx Theta is in need of replacement. MSRP $450 arcteryx.com
Climbing Harness – Mammut Zephyr Altitude
Mammut is an innovative company that has built climbing gear to withstand conditions of the Alps. With a great line of harnesses I couldn’t help but focus my attention on the alpine/mountaineering harness called the Zephyr Altitude. Weighing in at only 8 oz., this harness is not only lightweight and super durable but the diaper-style system allows you to unbuckle the waist and leg loops. This awesome feature helps anyone with skis or crampons avoid the hassle of removing your gear just to put a harness on. Plus, Mammut has put a thin, red piece of webbing on the front loops where the rope tends to rub the most. If you see red, it’s time for a new harness. MSRP $84.95 mammut.ch
Approach Shoes – Lowa Triolet GTX
My approach shoes have taken a beating from extreme rock scrambling and gnarly approaches. Lowa’s inventive senses have put together a unique approach shoe that feels as light as a trail running shoe. The Triolet GTX Mid is ideal for via ferratas and other high alpine rock routes because the rubber toecap increases durability and stickiness. It weighs 1,300 grams and costs $235 which is a little pricey but with a Lowa Scale midsole my money will go a long way. lowaboots.com
Packable Winter Boots – Teva Jordanelle and Chair Five
I always have the problem finding a lightweight, packable, and warm winter boot that lets me do just about anything in my adventurous life. Teva is well known for their killer sandals and lifestyle shoes but they’ve recently expanded their horizons by creating a winter boot with a removable liner. The women’s Jordanelle and men’s Chair Five developed their names from different ski lifts. Lined with 3 mm Thinsulate LiteLoft these cozy boots go down to negative 25 degrees, but just pull out the liner and you have a perfect lodge boot. Unlike other winter boots, they scrunch down to the size of a normal shoe. Watch out for these in mid-August 2012. MSRP $170 teva.com
Climbing Chic – PrAna Ayana Pant
I firmly believe that PrAna’s clothing has made my climbing skills just that much better. Their flexible, durable, and comfortable designs have kept me coming back for more. The Ayana pant from their new hemp-blended line, caught my eye today. A comfy legging equipped with a mini skirt, I’ll be able to climb in style and head to the pub right after a hardcore session. MSRP $75 prAna.com