2020-2021 Volkl Mantra M5
We just spent more time on the new Mantra M5 in Telluride, so now, Jonathan Ellsworth gets to weigh in on this latest iteration of the Mantra.
Sam Shaheen
18/19 Rossignol Soul 7 HD
After a couple days on the new Rossignol Soul 7 HD, we have some surprising initial impressions...
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18/19 Line Sakana
After spending some time on Line's new swallowtail all-mountain ski, the Sakana, you can now check out our initial on-snow impressions.
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18/19 Faction Candide 4.0
Jonathan Ellsworth and Sam Shaheen spent time this weekend on the Candide 4.0, so here are their initial impressions, and some comparisons to the Blizzard Rustler 11.
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Norrona Lofoten Alpha Raw Zip Hoodie
The Norrona Lofoten Alpha Raw Zip Hoodie is yet another interesting addition to the active insulation category, and we think it’s definitely worth a look if you’re in the market for a cozy, warm, and light mid layer.
18/19 Atomic Bent Chetler 120
We've now spent a few days skiing in Japan on the all-new Bent Chetler 120, and you can check out here our initial on-snow performance notes.
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.
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2018-2019 Blizzard Rustler 10
We now have more time on the new Blizzard Rustler 10 in a broader range of conditions. Check out our update.
Ski The Wild West
Drew Petersen’s new film, Ski The Wild West, is a refreshing take on ski mountaineering, and is certainly worth a watch.
2018-2019 Scott Superguide 105
The Scott Superguide 105 has all the ingredients of a powerful backcountry & mountaineering ski, and it shares a lot in common with one of our favorite skis in that category. Check out our measured specs, rocker pics, and initial impressions.
Patagonia Descensionist 40L Pack
Based on Patagonia’s mountaineering-oriented Ascensionist packs, the new Descensionist 40L features a similarly minimalist profile, some ski-specific features, and plenty of capacity in a lightweight package.
Patagonia Refugio 28L Backpack
The newly redesigned Patagonia Refugio is a well-built daypack with plenty of features that make it great for daily use, yet it isn’t out of place on the trail, either.
New Tech — Down “Fabric”?
Eddie Bauer’s new midlayer — and the insulation it utilizes — is a significant departure from traditional down jackets.
New Tech & Trends in Outerwear (Ep.49)
We talk to Blister's outerwear editor, Sam Shaheen, about the most important new tech & trends in apparel; how & why he first got involved with Blister; starting his own outwear company at the age of 15, and more.
Mammut Zephir Altitude Harness
The Mammut Zephir Altitude Harness is a very light and packable harness that's great on glaciers or easy alpine climbs.
2019-2020 G3 SENDr 112
The G3 SENDr 112 is supposed to be a hard-charging, backcountry ski. So how serious of a ski is it, and where does it truly excel?
2017-2018 G3 Scala LT Skins
G3 has updated their deep-snow-oriented Scala skin to cut weight. So how does the new Scala LT perform, and how does it differ from the original Scala?
Outdoor Research Ascendant Hoody
There is a paradigm shift happening in insulation, and the Outdoor Research Ascendant Hoody employs one of the most promising new technologies, Polartec Alpha Direct. Check out our review.
Sam Shaheen
Age: 30 | Vitals: 5’ 10”, 140 lbs. | Years skiing: 26 | Current Residence: Denver, CO
Background:
I grew up in the Denver area, and have been playing in the …
The North Face FuseForm Dolomiti 1/4 Zip Hoodie
The North Face Dolomiti is one of our favorite mid layers due to its combination of warmth + breathability and its excellent hood.
Patagonia Ascensionist 35 Pack
The Patagonia Ascensionist 35 is an excellent - though specialized - mountaineering pack.