I bought one of the original Montane Sabretooth jackets which, at that time, was made of the same material. I found it not very wind resistant, and heavy for the performance it offered.It did have a very good DWR coating but, when it did wet out, it seemed to absorb a lot of water and take a long time to dry. I never trusted it in a 'serious' environment, and wore it casually. I never did work out what it was actually good at and, like Steve, wrote it off to experience.
A word for Ledge Route.Not difficult, but a quality route with a real mountain feel, winter or summer. It's a personal thing; I first did it on a winter skills course, and it was the first time I felt that I'd climbed a mountain, rather than walked up one. Ascent or descent, I always enjoy it even now.
Golite Jam Ruksacs (mens' and womens') half-price at Telemark Pyrenees plus others. I don't know what these sacs are like, but remember them being mentioned in a thread.
English language option on site + I think at least some of thestaff or owners are from UK.I've had stuff from them with no problems. (I have no connection with the company, just thought it could be of interest to someone).
Ed's point re. fit is fundamental. If your boots fit well, even if they're slightly less 'technical', you'll climb well. Ill-fitting boots can make your trip a miserable experience.
A well-meaning suggestion: pay particular attention to fit round the heel and minimal heel-lift when you walk; especially with stiffer boots. Also, hold onto something solid and stand on tip-toe, to simulate a steep descent ( to check your toes don't hit the end of the boot). The ramps in shops aren't steep enough for this.
Oh, and try boots on after you've been for a walk, when your feet have expanded.
I bought a pair of these as casual boots (I prefer boots to shoes; each to their own). I find them very comfortable but, on certain surfaces, such as wet paving slabs, they're frighteningly slippery.
It's the compound which makes the difference on hard surfaces. Some are much better than others, (the tread on boots is for traction on loose surfaces or grass).
Toadinahole
