Blister Bootfitting 101

Bootfitting 101: Sizing

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.

Blister’s Flash Reviews and Deep Dives are accessible to those who purchase one of our paid subscriptions

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David Golay reviews the OChain Anti-Pedal Kickback Device for Blister

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.

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.

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.
Dylan Wood and Eric Freson Review the Revel Rail 29 for Blister

Flash Review — Revel Rail 29

Update 9.27.22: Dylan Wood adds his initial impressions of this versatile long-travel 29er.

Blister’s Flash Reviews and Deep Dives are accessible to those who purchase one of our paid subscriptions

To get our comprehensive Deep Dives and our initial, unfiltered reports on new gear, become a member and receive many other services, deals, and discounts.

If you’re already an active member, please log in.

(If you're already logged in and a member in good standing and seeing this message in error, please refresh this page in your browser.)

Kara Williard reviewing the kora Shola Zip 1.0 Yak Basleayer for BLISTER

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.
Snowsports Glossary, Blister

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.
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. In part 1 of this tour-de-force of a conversation on our CRAFTED podcast, 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. Buckle up for this one, folks.

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.