What do I mean by carefully selected? Basically, I mean used and tested by professional climbers and guides. I look primarily for function, versatility and reliability, but I also consider value and style.

Because mountaineering is physically demanding and the amount of gear that we can carry is limited, every piece of gear must be carefully considered. Classic mountaineering philosophies suggest a less is more approach. The French climbing guide, Gaston Rebuffat, advised,

“when packing the rucksack remember, weight is the enemy.” He also said, “don't forget anything,”…a challenging contradiction every time.

Every climber goes through a learning process in deciding what is too much and what is not enough. My advice is to experiment—leave a few things out, consider every single item, dare to be a little cold (you may surprise yourself…and learn some new tricks). The rewards of packing light are greater comfort and safety.

     —Jim Nelson, Owner

Which weighs more…

…your tent or your boots? At an extraordinary, Guinness record-holding 28 oz., the new Terra Nova Photon may have you scratching your head for the answer.

We are now stocking 5 models of Terra Nova tents, and none of them are very heavy. Check them out in our Tents section.

Field of Dreams

If the pitches that fill your imagination are tilted at severe angles, this may be the boot to help you achieve. The new Trango Alp GTX from La Sportiva.

Fear the White Witch?!

She will be baffled construction!

For the price, quality, features, and light weight, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better shield in the cold.

Montbell Alpine Down Jacket

Who's Your Donkey?

Hey, don't look at me. Look in the Packs section!

Expedite your order with our "Buy Now" button

If you would like to purchase something featured on our Web site, click the button and fill out the order form. After filling out the form, we ask that you call us during business hours with your credit card number (ie we cannot be responsible for your card number unless you call with it).

Orders completed by 4pm during business hours usually ship out the same day. Please note that our inventory fluctuates constantly, and prices may change without notice.