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Ski boots are arguably the most important bit of gear when it comes to enjoying your time on snow, but they're also probably the most difficult to get *just right*. In our Bootfitting 101 series, we're trying to make this process easier, kicking things off with a foundational, but not so straightforward, step — figuring out the right size.
Deep Dive: Salomon Ski Boots Brand Lineup, 22/23
Our Deep Dive series on ski boot lines is back for the 22/23 season, starting with Salomon's expansive collection, including their brand-new S/Pro Alpha and MTN Summit series. We discuss all notable specs, features, most similar boots from other brands, and more. Become a Deep Dive subscriber or Blister Member to check it out.
Climbing Skins: A Guide & Comparisons
Climbing skins often receive less attention than skis, boots, & bindings, but the skins you stick to your skis can make or break your days in the backcountry. So in this guide, we go through the qualities to look for in a pair of skins, then directly compare 13 different skins from 5 different brands.
2022-2023 Head Kore 120
Here are our initial impressions, images, and specs for the new Head Kore 120 GW.
OChain Anti-Pedal Kickback Device
OChains — the floating crank spiders meant to mitigate pedal kickback — are everywhere in the World Cup Downhill pits, but do they really work, and are they going to be a benefit for mere mortals? Check out our full review to find out, and take a deep dive into the often-misunderstood topic of pedal kickback.
Altra Olympus 5
Altra demonstrated a level of self-control in the updates they made to the Olympus 5, smoothing out its predecessor’s imperfections but otherwise keeping the shoe mostly the same. Check out our full review to learn how the latest version of the Olympus stays true to the model’s identity as one of the best ultra-cushioned, maximalist trail shoes on the market.
Blister Brand Guide: VJ Running Shoe Lineup, 2022
VJ has been making footwear for trail running, obstacle course racing, and orienteering for over 40 years, though they’ve only been available in North America as recently as 2019. Their current lineup, though few in number, has some standout models designed to thrive in rugged conditions. Take a look at our Brand Guide to learn more about each one of their 2022 trail shoes.
How to Think about Ski Length
One of the most common questions we get is, "Which length of this ski should I get?" So in this updated GEAR 101 article, we outline the factors that go into answering that question.
Best Skis for Beginners: Our Top Picks, 2022-2023
In Part 2 of our top picks for skis that are well-suited to less experienced skiers, we've added several women-specific all-mountain skis; some that are worth considering for those getting into backcountry touring; and others for those who will be skiing deeper snow.
2022-2023 Fischer Ranger Pro 130
Here are our measured specs, images, and initial impressions of the new Fischer Ranger Pro 130.
Product Names: the Good, the Bad, & the Confounding
The seemingly simple process of naming a product can actually be quite tricky. And as a result, we end up with some that are odd, confusing, complex, hilarious, and/or absurd. Here are some of our reviewers' nominees — let us know your own!
Blister Brand Guide: Merrell Running Shoe Lineup, 2022
Over their 40-year history making hiking boots, Merrell has learned a thing or two about crafting footwear for trails, much to the benefit of their running shoe line. Sturdy, hard wearing, and protective, many of Merrell’s models fall back on the design principles that brought the brand so much early success, and continue to do so today. Check out our Brand Guide to get the rundown on all of their 2022 trail running shoes.
BTR on Hardcore Hardtails, Bike Geo, & Building to Last (Ep.137)
There are a lot of options for hardcore hardtails these days, but BTR set the template for the genre with their original Belter over a decade ago. And so we sat down to chat about the company's origins, their philosophy on geometry, the BTR lineup, and a whole lot more.
Flash Review — Revel Rail 29
Update 9.27.22: Dylan Wood adds his initial impressions of this versatile long-travel 29er.
Stuff We Like: September 2022
The September edition of our "Stuff We Like" series is packed with an assortment of items, from bike shoes, bike gloves, and bike shorts, to ultralight tents and hiking apparel, running socks, anti-chafe products, and much more. Check it out to see the latest gear our reviewers have been digging.
Glossary – Snowsports
Death Cookies? Coral Reef? Chalk? Directional vs. Playful Style? Can a ski be maneuverable but not nimble? There are a whole lot of ways to talk about snow and the different ways to slide down it. Check out our updated Glossary learn more about the sometimes foreign-sounding language of snowsports and ski reviews.
Reserve 30|HD Wheels
We've been spending a lot of time on the new Reserve 30|HD wheels, and they've proven to be a nice update to the longstanding and super-popular Reserve 30.
BLISTER Craft Collective
The BLISTER Craft Collective is our way to shine a light on some of our favorite people and companies in the broader craft world.
The Alchemist co-founder & brewer, John Kimmich, Part 1 (Ep.6)
With Heady Topper, John Kimmich created one of the most sought-after beers in the world, and effectively created the profile of the modern IPA. Here in Part 1, we talk to John about his path to opening The Alchemist with his wife, Jen, in 2003; the business — and current landscape — of craft beer; what distinguishes great beer from mediocre beer; and more.
Blister Brand Guide: Dynafit Running Shoe Lineup, 2022
Since debuting their first line of technical footwear for mountain running in 2011, Dynafit has expanded into everything from ultra-distance models to those specific to shorter efforts in technical terrain. Check out our 2022 Brand Guide to see what’s new from them this year.