Geoff B. from United States, CA Public Profile

I was looking for a down jacket that was a little warmer and more water repellant than my REI CoOp jacket. This one fits the bill perfectly! The shell is strong and doesn't easily snag on brush. It sheds light rain with ease and is just warm enough. The hood is lined with comfy fabric.
For me, the sizing isn't perfect. I wear a large in everything else. The large size of this jacket was just too big and bulky so I got the medium which is just barely too small. Not too small to wear, just not perfectly comfortable.

I got the XL-
This pad is very nice to sleep on. It's too big and heavy for backpacking if you care about weight at all, but I have a smaller pad for that. In recent years I have been carrying a cot to sleep on because it's so much more comfy than the ground. That's really big and heavy. This is a nice middle ground between my lightweight Thermarest and the cot, and it fits in the tent better. The only reason for four stars is because the edges are flat welded like a thin pad typically is. Since this pad is 3" thick it would be more comfy if the edges were "square" like a mattress. I'm sure this helps it roll up better and makes it more durable, so it's a trade-off.
I do recommend getting a pump for this if you want it to be firm.

The realization shorts are comfortable and flexible for hours of bouldering and ready at a moments notice to lend a quick belay or to rope up for a TR session. Some reviewers have said that they are comfortable enough to wear around town but I disagree. There is a harness in there and you know it. The tie in loops are perfect for belaying as they orient the carabiner side to side, just like a belay loop. Tying in is easy too.
The fabric holds chalk so they look chalky all the time.
I got the v1.0 , so it only has two gear loops. I see that the v2.0 has four and that would be nice. I haven't worn them outdoors for sport yet but I suspect it will be comfortable all day.
The elastic waist closure is unique and allows for stretch and ventilation. I wear a 31 or 32" waist depending on brand. I got the medium and they fit well. At first I thought they were tight, but it's just the elastic closure system at work. If I was a 33 or 34, I think these would be too small.
Sorry for the rambling review but I think I hit the main topics.