Remember it is always better to have a boot that is too warm than otherwise.Ħ. Think about what seasons you are will be using your boot and choose accordingly. Likewise, it is bad form to get frostbite in July on Mont Blanc because you’re using a boot with no insulation. Insulation When will the boot be used? No need to get a warm boot if you’re only using them in the summer to cross glaciers in the Bugaboos. For example: on the Matterhorn the Scarpa Triolet is great, but on Mt. If your goals are more scrambling related or you need a boot for an approach you’ll be happier with a more flexible boot. Flex What are your objectives? For ice and a lot flat footing mountaineering terrain, go with a rigid boot. When in doubt get the extra size larger, your feet will thank you for itĤ. Also, your feet swell at altitude and leather boots can shrink over time with exposure to water (at least that is my experience…?). I rarely hear someone complain that a boot is too big, but regularly hear people complain their toes are banging. Size It is always easier to take up space in a boot than make them bigger. My personal favorite is the Scarpa Omega – super warm, affordable, lightweight and rigid making it a good choice for technical climbingģ. However, if your trip involves camping double boots are still a good choice as you can dry out the liners. Double These days most single boots are warm enough and stiff enough to excel during four season. It’s best to take the time to find a good fitting quality boot initially as it will save you in the long run.Ģ. If your boots don’t fit well it can seriously jeapordize your success on any objective. Fit Forget about colors, price tags or any brand loyalties you may have. With that said, below are a few questions to ask yourself and a few tips when thinking about choosing the right boot for your climbing desires.ġ. Therefore, I have a good sense of what works and what doesn’t and I’ve seen a more than a few people spoil their trip due to poor boot choices.
Without exaggeration I spend at least 200+ days a year in mountain boots and ski boots and most of my clients are wearing boots as well. This jacket was sent to me for review through the #ORInsightLab.Since a lot of work I do involves Alpine objectives and summertime mountaineering, I get a lot of questions regarding what type of boots to buy. Buy the Uberlayer through Outdoor Research, CampSaver, REI, Mountain Gear, or Amazon for $299. If you don’t mind always looking (and smelling) kinda dirtbaggy, this jacket is it. I also found that the nylon shell holds stains and dirt pretty well, even with thorough and frequent washings. The ultimate downside of the Uberlayer is it stinks something fierce when you’re rocking it day in and day out.
When you’re sweating away, the jacket doesn’t stick to you, an absolute must when I’m bike commuting to work. It’s perfect for throwing over a t-shirt. The mesh lining keeps me reaching for this jacket time and time again for everything. I really, really, really wish more jackets were versatile like this. The double separating front zipper is a godsend with a harness on, or if you really need to use the bathroom with all your snow gear on. It’s breathable enough for shredding and insulates enough for windy days on the wall or the lift. From snowboarding to snowshoeing to climbing, this jacket is sport agnostic. Not having to really shed layers while I’m on the go? That’s a total win in my book. I used to be all about the down jacket, but now this is my go-to. The Outdoor Research Uberlayer has really changed my tune towards synthetic insulation. The fit is trim.Īvailable through Outdoor Research | CampSaver | REI | Mountain Gear | or Amazon The jacket features a helmet compatible hood and a double separating front zipper. The jacket features two zippered hand pockets, one zippered napoleon pocket, and two internal stuff pockets. Polartec® Alpha® Active Insulation is layered between a polyester mesh lining and a highly breathable nylon shell to keep you warm and cool, all at once. The Outdoor Research Uberlayer Hooded Jacket does just that.Īt 16.7 oz, the jacket is lightweight, breathable, water resistant and wind resistant. When you’re huffing and puffing away in varying temperatures, you want insulation that works with you and not against you.