Paul Forward | Blister Gear Review

Tecnica Cochise Pro 130 vs. Lange XT 130

January 29, 2018October 5, 2015 by Paul Forward

Paul Forward reviews the Lange XT 130 for Blister Gear Review.

The Cochise Pro has been the undisputed king of burlier alpine boots with a walk mode. But the new and improved Lange XT 130 is now a serious challenger.

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Patagonia Refugitive Jacket

September 13, 2016September 10, 2015 by Paul Forward

Gore-Tex has a new technology called C-Knit, and it has been put to very good use in the Patagonia Refugitive Jacket

2017-2018 Salomon MTN Lab

May 12, 2018September 6, 2015 by Paul Forward

Paul Forward reviews the Salomon MTN Lab for Blister Gear Review

The Salomon MTN Lab AT boot is one of the most impressive products we’ve ever reviewed.

2015-2016 Salomon X Max 130

September 13, 2016August 31, 2015 by Paul Forward

Paul Forward reviews the Salomon X Max 130 for Blister Gear Review

Salomon calls the X Max 130 their “top level race boot,” but we discuss both its on-piste and off-piste performance.

2020-2021 Volkl V-Werks BMT 109

December 14, 2020August 30, 2015 by Paul Forward

Paul Forward reviews the Volkl V-Werks BMT 109, 186cm for Blister Gear Review

The Volkl V-Werks BMT 109 isn’t the lightest touring ski we’ve tested, nor the best in firm crud or deep pow. But it is the best all-around performer in its class.

Douchebag Ski Bag

August 22, 2015August 21, 2015 by Paul Forward

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.

Black Diamond Halo 28 JetForce Airbag Pack

October 18, 2021August 14, 2015 by Paul Forward

Paul Forward reviews the Black Diamond Halo 28 JetForce airbag backpack, Blister Gear Review.

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.

Patagonia PowSlayer Jacket and Bibs

September 13, 2016May 13, 2015 by Paul Forward

Paul Forward in the Patagonia PowSlayer kit, Northern Chugach, AK

The updated Patagonia PowSlayer kit might be some of the best freeride-oriented outerwear for resort and backcountry use.

La Sportiva Spectre

July 14, 2015May 11, 2015 by Paul Forward

Update: the La Sportiva Spectre has stood as one of the most adjustable and best values in AT boots—and it’s been updated to provide a better fit.

2017-2018 Whitedot Redeemer CarbonLite

January 11, 2018March 3, 2015 by Paul Forward

Paul Forward reviews the Whitedot Redeemer CarbonLite, Blister Gear Review.

The Whitedot Skis Redeemer sits favorably in the growing class of ~8 lb-per-pair powder skis, and should be on the radar of anyone who tours for untracked snow, or who just prefers lighter pow skis.

Dynafit Beast 14 AT Binding

February 4, 2015 by Paul Forward

Paul Forward reviews the Dynafit Beast 14 for Blister Gear Review

“Overall, these are the most versatile and functional bindings I’ve clicked into for all around use.”

Outdoor Research Vanguard Jacket

January 10, 2015 by Paul Forward

The Outdoor Research Vanguard is a good resort jacket for those who want the feel of a soft shell and storm protection of a hard shell.

2014-2015 4FRNT Devastator

November 20, 2014November 20, 2014 by Paul Forward

Paul Forward, 4FRNT Devastator, Blister Gear Review

Update: The 4FRNT Devastator is one of the most stable, predictable skis we’ve tested in crud and variable conditions, and we’ve now put more time on it in soft chop and fresh powder.

2014-2015 Tecnica Cochise 130 Pro

November 18, 2014October 29, 2014 by Paul Forward

Paul Forward reviews the Tecnica Cochise 130 Pro, Blister Gear Review

The redesigned Tecnica Cochise 130 Pro is a top contender among alpine boots with a walk / hike mode.

2014-2015 Blizzard Bodacious

September 13, 2021September 14, 2014 by Paul Forward

Paul Forward reviews the Blizzard Bodacious, Blister Gear Review.

Versatile, stable, forgiving, and damp. The Blizzard Bodacious is an outstanding big-mountain / fatter all-mountain ski.

2014-2015 Blizzard Cochise

October 13, 2015September 4, 2014 by Paul Forward

Paul Forward reviews the Blizzard Cochise, Blister Gear Review

Blizzard tweaked the Cochise for the 2014-2015 season. Thankfully, this latest version is still one of the best skis in its class.

2016-2017 DPS Wailer 105

November 21, 2016August 31, 2014 by Paul Forward

For those who prefer substantial and damp skis to light and reactive ones (especially when conditions get firm), the new Wailer 105 Hybrid T2 is a very good all-mountain option, and a big departure for DPS.

2017-2018 DPS Spoon

January 10, 2018February 10, 2014 by Paul Forward

review of the DPS Spoon, Blister Gear Review

The DPS Spoon has received a whole lot of buzz and media attention, but how does it actually perform? Time for an in-depth review.

Pret Effect Helmet

November 13, 2013 by Paul Forward

“The Pret Effect is a well-designed, comfortable helmet that has a variety of smart features—including innovative magnetic buckles. I think it’s one of the best helmets I’ve used.”

Discovery Trekking Outfitters Extreme Ultralite Towel

October 20, 2013October 20, 2013 by Jonathan Ellsworth

Discovery Trekking towels, Blister Gear Review.

Weighing in at under 3 ounces, the Extreme Ultralight Backpacking Towel is (in fact) extremely packable, and it dries well, too.

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