My first pair of crampons where the Rock Empire Machki. At the beginning of my mountaineering adventures, I needed a basic still good pair of crampons. As always, I did an extensive research on which pair of crampons would fit my necessities and my budget too and at I ended up purchasing these pair.
While searching for a good Snow Picket/Anchor, I have decided to create my own ones. I have done extensive research and I have studied several documents on what are the important elements to make the best possible snow picket.
One of the main resources has been the research by Don Bogie “Snow Anchors for belaying and rescue”, the research by Art Fortini named “Failure modes of Snow Anchors” and the full documentation on Snow Anchors by Don Bogie.
The Quechua Arpenaz 10l is a 10 litre day pack that is extremely lightweight (175g / 6oz) and water repellent. The bag has one large compartment and a smaller pouch on the front. It also has two loops on each strap that are listed as “thumb loops”. I think these could also be used for ice picks or hiking sticks. You could also use them for hanging extra gear with a carabiner. I found that the loops were quite handy for using as a makeshift sternum strap. You thread the loose ends of the straps through the loops and tie them together to hold them in place.
The last six (6) months I’ve been searching for a new tent and after loads of hours spent on market research I have decided to buy the Sierra Designs Flash 3 tent. I heard it said that Sierra Designs makes the best three-season tents on the market. That’s been in the back of my mind as I’ve tested Sierra Designs’ most comfortable, innovative line of tents yet: the Flash series.
Combining waterproof protection and generous support, The North Face Verbera Lightpacker GTX boots are ideal for medium-load backpacking.
These boots feature suede leather and Panatex ballistic textile uppers, complemented by advanced Gore-Tex® membranes for waterproof protection and breathable performance, so feet remain cool and dry whether the rain is pouring or the sun is out.
Weight-efficient Smartlite® mudguards and premium EVA Northotic foot beds also come as standard, along with Cradle technology for extra support and stability in the heel regions and Vibram® outsoles for grip on slick ground.
Olympus Mountaineering 