Summer OR 2019: Harnesses
There were actually enough new harnesses at the Summer OR show this year to justify a harness-specific write-up! And I’m sure that if I had a little more time to walk the show floor I might have found another harness or two to add from lesser-known brands. I’ve got all the big boys covered though. CAMP Impulse and Impulse CR Harness: The Impulse and Impulse … Continue reading Summer OR 2019: Harnesses
Summer OR 2019: Climbing Gear
In this second installment of our Summer Outdoor Retailer Show Reports we take a look at all the cool new climbing gear that’s on its way. From carabiners to cams, helmets to ropes, there was some pretty cool kit at the show this year! If you’re looking for harnesses though you’ll have to wait for the next post. There were quite a few this year … Continue reading Summer OR 2019: Climbing Gear
Summer OR 2019: Winter Climbing Gear
Surprisingly, in a very good way, there was a lot of winter-focused gear at this year’s Summer OR show. Enough to justify a winter specific article anyway! So, as an avid ice climber I just had to start this summer’s series of OR reports by covering winter climbing kit. Asolo Boots: Asolo has given a few of their alpine boots a serious upgrade and the … Continue reading Summer OR 2019: Winter Climbing Gear
First Look Review: Updated Black Diamond Camalot C4
Friends are great to have. They have evolved over the years, getting lighter, stronger and smarter… Black Diamond have recently updated the forever loved and well trusted Camalot C4. The main change is in the lobes, and the larger sizes got some clever features. This next generation was due, with new Wild County Friends and DMM Dragons circa 2017. This saw both having major upgrades … Continue reading First Look Review: Updated Black Diamond Camalot C4
Technical Mountaineering Axe Comparison
Last year I wrote an article comparing different lightweight mountaineering axes. This year I’m comparing their slightly heavier brethren. And while a really lightweight axe is great if it’s going to mainly live on your pack, a slightly sturdier tool is ideal for more technical objectives. Routes where you plan on using one (or more) axes to climb some alpine ice, work through some deep … Continue reading Technical Mountaineering Axe Comparison
The Overwhelming Truth of Yosemite – For a Climber
Yosemite A place forever intertwined with the history of rock climbing, and has remained relevant in the climbing universe after many decades. While access, culture, and the valley floor are completely different when compared to the days of the Stonemasters, the source of inspiration remains the same. Through rock-fall and epics, The Valley constantly reminds us that it will remain untamed—regardless of how many millions … Continue reading The Overwhelming Truth of Yosemite – For a Climber
Review: Arc’teryx Alpha AR 20 Pack
Arc’teryx added to their Alpha line of alpine & rock climbing packs with the Alpha AR. This new pack comes in 20L and 35L versions with a larger, 55L version in the works. This article will focus on the smaller of the two sizes, the 20L multi-pitch pack. We will be working on a review of the 35L pack this summer though so stay tuned. … Continue reading Review: Arc’teryx Alpha AR 20 Pack
Arc’teryx Climbing Academy 2019
Summer’s here and so’s the annual Arc’teryx Climbing Academy! If you haven’t been to one of these events yet you’ll definitely want to check it out. It’s based out of Squamish BC where you can find world class granite climbing without even leaving town. The event takes place August 22nd to 25th but registration is open as of May 15 and events and clinics book up fast … Continue reading Arc’teryx Climbing Academy 2019
Review: Mammut 6mm Glacier Cord
Mammut’s new Glacier Cord is designed to be used as part of a lightweight rope kit to allow alpinists, mountaineers and skiers to deal with various challenges and emergencies. This includes rappelling cliff bands, roping up for glacier travel, undertaking crevasse and cliff rescues, etc. Of course lightweight kits like this have been available for some time, the most well-known being Petzl’s RAD kit. Mammut … Continue reading Review: Mammut 6mm Glacier Cord
Coffee Review 2.0
Here at Black Sheep we don’t mess around when it comes to coffee! We are firm believers that a freshly brewed cup of coffee in the morning is an essential part of the day, no matter where you are. But…! To prepare said cup of coffee, the right equipment is essential. For this review we’ve tested out a wide assortment of coffee equipment to help … Continue reading Coffee Review 2.0