BLISTER Gear Reviews, Podcasts, & Articles
2017-2018 Atomic Vantage 100 CTi
The new Vantage 100 seems to be exactly what Atomic set out to design: a strong, relatively light all-mountain ski.
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Dynafit Vulcan
The Dynafit Vulcan set the current standard for high-performance AT boots. So before we discuss some new challengers, here is our very detailed review of the Vulcan.
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DT Swiss OPM O.D.L. 120 29″ Fork
Next up in our 29’er fork series: the DT Swiss OPM O.D.L. 120 is a lightweight, progressive fork that handles big hits well.
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2016-2017 G3 Synapse 109
Down in New Zealand, the G3 Synapse 109 is proving to be a lightweight ski that shines in good conditions.
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Douchebag Ski Bag
The Douchebag is one of the lightest roller ski bags we’ve seen, and it is by far the most compressible / stowable bag we’ve tested.
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DIY Tailgate Rack
Tailgate pads are a good way to transport your bike, but they’re not ideal. So our bike editor presents this easy, inexpensive, DIY option.
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RockShox Reba RL 29″
The 29″ RockShox Reba RL is a lightweight fork that falls on the less expensive end of the spectrum.
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Back On Snow
It’s time to get back on snow. We leave tomorrow.
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Leatt DBX 4.5 Neck Brace
The Leatt DBX 4.5 neck brace offers a high level of protection at a good price.
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Black Diamond Halo 28 JetForce Airbag Pack
Update: The JetForce Airbag technology is a game changer, but see our update regarding the BD recall and make sure your pack is good to go.
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Vs. Review: 29’er Forks
We’re pitting 5 of the top 29’er trail forks on the market against each other.
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2015 Devinci Troy Carbon SX
The Devinci Troy is an excellent all-around trail bike that manages to walk the fine line between maneuverability and stability.
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Update: TRP Slate Brakes
The TRP Slate brakes offer a great finish and modulation, and we’ve swapped out brake pads to see if we could boost their stopping power. See our update.
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Q: Who is the greatest DH rider ever?
Aaron Gwin’s recent string of remarkable feats prompted a debate about the present and the past of downhill racing. Who you got?
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2015 Guerrilla Gravity Megatrail
The Guerrilla Gravity Megatrail is a stiff, stable, adaptable trail bike that delivers an extremely impressive ride.
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BLISTER Reviews, Podcasts, & Articles:
Altra Olympus 3.0
We’ve now run about 300 miles in the Altra Olympus 3.0, and we can now say that it’s become our favorite max-cushioned shoe. Check out our update on its durability; an in-depth comparison to the Hoka Stinson ATR 4; and how well the Olympus 3.0 works as a road-to-trail shoe.
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Win One of Our Favorite MTB Packs
MTB packs are tricky, but Henty seems to have nailed it with their Enduro Backpack. And this week, we’re giving one away.
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Petzl Sitta Harness
The Petzl Sitta harness is one of the lightest on the market, but Petzl says it’s still fully featured, comfortable, and durable enough for technical rock and ice climbing. So what (if any) compromises did they make by going so light?
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Showers Pass IMBA Shorts and Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt
While they’re best known for their waterproof road-biking jackets, Showers Pass also makes some high-quality, lightweight apparel for the hottest days on the trail. Check out our review.
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What’s The Most Painful Sport?
Yesterday, a bunch of runners completed the Tahoe 200, a 205-mile race that a couple participants finished in under 50 hours. Which is insane. So that got us wondering: What’s the most painful sport to be the best at? We came up with a few contenders, and we want to hear yours.
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Black Diamond Shadow
Black Diamond entered the climbing-shoe market only a year ago, and the Shadow is their most aggressive offering. So how does it compare to similar shoes like the Scarpa Instinct VS and La Sportiva Testarossa & Kataki? Check out our review.
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Hoka One One Evo Mafate
The Hoka Evo Mafate is the newest and most race-oriented version of Hoka’s original trail shoe, and we think many runners could get along well with it — even non-racers. Check out our review, including comparisons to the Hoka Speedgoat 2 and Torrent.
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Win Men’s & Women’s Down Jackets from TREW
Summer is officially over, so it’s time to start thinking about staying warm. The two winners of our Gear Giveaway this week will each win a Super Down Shirtweight Jacket from TREW.
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2019-2020 Blizzard Brahma 88
The more time we’ve spent on the Blizzard Brahma, the more dialed we think it is. Check out our full review
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2018 Pivot Firebird 29
Our reviewer calls the Pivot Firebird 29 the “Firechicken,” because it’s a long-travel 29er that descends like it’s on fire, and has a speed limit that’s primarily defined by how chicken you are. Check out our full review.
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Eric Freson
Age: 36 | Vitals: 5’’10” 165 lbs | Years biking: 31 | Current Residence: Gunnison Valley, Colorado Background I grew up in small-town Vermont, and was encouraged to get outside from a very young age. My first bike was a 20” BMX bike that our USPS Delivery Woman gifted to me and that I rode … Read more
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Elyse Saugstad, Big Mtn Skier (Ep.74)
We talk with Elyse about filming the new MSP movie, All In; growing up in Alaska; her work with Safe As Clinics; figure skating and fantasy football (?); and the value of repeatedly finding new ways to challenge yourself.
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