Jonathan S

Whoops, just realized that this product listing is for the UNinsulated version. I've gone through several pairs of the prior variation on that (with a Boa, mainly for add'l shock & awe value), not because of lack of durability, but just because I love the design so much for all my skimo training racing down into temps around the mid 20s F. Below that, and the uninsulated version does get cold. But at those temps and higher, the dexterity is outstanding, and the sans-strap system is both practical and super...

I’ve used a pair of these for many years, long enough that I’ve just about worn through them. (Meanwhile I’ve worn through many pairs of the non-insulated version.) As a lightly insulated softshell glove, it’s totally fine. But when paired with the Leki Mezza pole (or any other Leki nordic race pole), it’s totally awesome, since you don’t use any strap at all! Sure, the practical benefits of these are not life-altering, but the shock & awe value is … both shocking and awesome. Seriously, even after usi...

I’ve been using Leki nordic race poles with this same attachment system now for about a decade, both for nordic and skimo. The system works perfectly for either sport, whether you want to emphasize efficient power transfer for nordic or quick transitions for skimo. Unlike some other similar systems, don’t have to worry about snow clogging any parts. However, for skimo, you do have to worry about – at or least pay attention to – the potential for a runaway pole at a transition since your pole will have a ...

I’ve previously used a few generations of all-alu CAMP crampon models, plus the Petzl Leopard. So far I’ve used the DNA on a size 27.0 La Sportiva Stratos V. Just one outing, but with two fairly extended crampon climbs, one quite steep but with fairly soft snow, and one only moderate steep but with very firm conditions. Strengths: 1. Easy tool-less adjustment, with micro fine-tuning. 2. Excellent packability. 3. Fit stayed tight and secure in the field. Drawbacks: 1. Pricey compared to the competition. ...

Position #3 is physically possible. But the binding might not be designed to have the boot heel repeatedly coming down on this part of the binding. And heel elevator height from that position is barely any different from #2.