Black Diamond Winter Bivy Sack
November 18, 2007
Black Diamond Winter Bivy Sack
Product Description
Price: $109.90
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The Black Diamond Winter Bivy was designed both as a minimalist bivy sack and a winter sleeping bag cover. Great for keeping down sleeping bags dry in wet coastal climates. Extremely lightweight, this innovative bivy sack is made of a breathable silicone encapsulated polyester ripstop fabric. This fabric allows the Winter Bivy to pack down so small that it can be carried in the pocket of your jacket. Ideal for protection in all conditions, the Winter Bivy can also be carried as an emergency shelter for climbers, hikers, and bikers out on day trips. During the summer months, you can use the Winter Bivy as a lightweight alternative to a sleeping bag. Zippered entry across the shoulders is conveniently positioned for easy access and sitting up.
Product Reviews
Black Diamond Winter Bivy Sack
I just returned from using my BD winter bivy sack while cycling through France for 2 weeks and it worked very well. I DID NOT USE A TENT, ONLY THE BIVY SACK. It is very roomy and lightweight! As with all water resistent, breathable materials, it allows for condensation to form in cool temps when the humidity is high but it dries very quickly. It worked very well in the rain and was easy to get in and out of. I am very pleased with it. Thank you!
Just as advertised.
Last winter I did a winter camp in yellowstone and my down bag was drenched from the condensation by the end of the week. This past trip I used the Black Diamnod/Bibler winter bivy sack on the outside and a western mountains vapor sack on the inside and my bag remained dry thoughout a week of winter camping. The winter bivy sack is extremely lightweight and compressable. It keeps your bag dry from mist, moisture and condensation (although I only used it iside the tent, and I’m not sure how much the vapor sack was responsible for the dry bag this year). The downside: It only has a horizontal zipper accross the upper TOP portion of the bag which can restrict movement/motion. If the zipper extended down the right side (to match my sleeping bag) then it would be a 5 star item!
Best for minimalist, fast and light climbing
This is very bare bones but does the job. There’s is nothing but the windproof/water-resistant fabric and a very light 2-way zipper across the shoulders. I’ve used it once so far in 15F dry weather surrounding my 20F sleeping bag at 11,000ft on San Gorgonio. It’s so small and light that you can pack it anywhere and it makes a good conversation piece.
Great Bivy!
I highly recommend the Bibler Winter Bivy Sack…it is the ultralight hiker’s dream (9 ounces, verfified on my scale)! I broke the bivy in during a hike through the White Mountains, NH in miserable conditions (sleet, snow, freezing rain). Paired with my SilPoncho, I spent the night warm and dry. The bivy did a great job of keeping my bag dry from any splashing rain, but I did find that I had to open the zipper on occasion to relieve some of the condensation. Despite this, I found the Epic shell to be quite breathable (C’mon, I have yet to experience any "waterproof/breathable" piece of gear that didn’t have at least a little bit of a condensation issue…so I’m realistic in my expectations). This product gets my highest endorsement for the ultralight hiker.
Bibler Winter Bivy Sack
I was looking for something light weight for winter climbing. On a scale from 1 to 5, this winter bivy is definetly a 4++. Extremely light weight, easy to enter and exit and it kept my bag absolutely dry after two nights in snow caves. Nice price too. I can’t think of anything more I could ask. Highly recommended. Backcountry gets a 5.0 for service, I had the bag within 3 days of ordering and I live in Asia. Can’t go wrong ordering from these guys.
Black Diamond Winter Bivy Sack
Price: $109.90
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Black Diamond Lightsabre Bivy Sack
November 18, 2007
Black Diamond Lightsabre Bivy Sack
Product Description
Price: $149.93
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For the Lightsabre Bivy, Black Diamond took the burly Bibler Tripod Bivy’s design and put it together with the lightest, most packable materials they could find. The Epic fabric that makes up the Lightsabre’s body is highly water resistant, good in everything but a flat-out downpour, and breathable so you don’t have to contend with drippy condensation inside. A mesh window above your head eliminates the dreaded bivy claustrophobia attack without exposing your skin to ravenous insects. DAC featherlite poles and a silnylon floor strike a balance between weight savings and the strength necessities of a reliable shelter. If you’re shaving ounces from everything in your pack, or space is a concern (IE: two saddle bags to live out of) the Lightsabre Bivy is the fair weather solution. For rough, wet, or extreme conditions check out its big brother, the Bibler Tripod Bivy.
Product Reviews
Lightsabre Bivy
Went on 5 day 50 mile section hike on AT in VA…used this bivy 4 times. While I loved the weight, I did find it somewhat difficult to get in and out of this bivy. The head pole was curved down to help shed rain, but found the zippers did not go down as far from my head area as I would like (sure to save weight), so I had to wedge myself as far up into the head area, and then curl myself into a tight ball to work my feet out of the bivy. I am only 5′11", and felt that if the zippers would extend another foot this would have made all the difference to me. I plan to carry my clip flashlight on my next section hike because of this.
OK for quick and light
I used this bivy for a 5 day backpacking trip through the Sierra Nevadas and I am now looking for something more rugged. Its great if you are looking for sheer lightness and summertime use. I am only 5′3" and it was hard for me to get in & out of because of the short zipper and head overhang, I’m sure it would be even tougher for a tall man. It was waterproof (though I had to seamseal all seams myself). My other complaint is there was a ton of condensation on the inside of the bivy in the a.m. (even with the front wide open during sleep).
Super light- Cozy at night
As an old mountaineer, explorer and gear head, I do extensive research and purchase the best product for the $$$. I expect the best out of my toys and this sack performed superbly. Last fall 04, Scott and I embarked on the greatest "Motorcycle Mountaineering" exploration ever done to date (that we know of anyway). We call it the "7 Days & 7 Nights Super Loop". Over 1,000 dirt miles of single/double track mixed with some narly jeep trails. This secret route is part of an on site dirt-bike adventure I have been exploring for 10 years from Mexico thru the Rockies to Canada. Now keep in mind, that being compact and light is paramount when riding this kind of sick endurance adventure. Anyway, while riding at 9,000-11,550 feet for 12+ hours, we would find ourselves exhausted, and ready for bivi. We encountered freezing nighttime temperatures in nothing more than Black Diamond’s Lightsabre bivi, Thermarest’s Prolite 3 pad and an awesome ultra compact Mountain Hardware’s Phantom 3 bag. This bivy is lighter and more compact than any I have found. It performed well in the unexpected snow storm, rain and even in the heat of the desert. It’s dome sets up easily and has lots of headroom and thanks to the mesh feature, the mosquitoes went hungry. What more can I say. Try it you’ll like it!!! J Hof.
Boo on the Lightsabre bivy.
I really had a difficult time getting in and out of the darn thing and I am only 5′8". I am disappointed with the inability to adjust the tent part of the bivy. It would be much better if the angle of the opening was adjustable for star gazing. As it is, I felt cut off from the great outdoors. It also trapped condensation. I’m on the look out for something better.
Black Diamond Light Saber Bivy
This is the best Bivy I have ever been in. Amazingly light, Easy to set up. Careful you don’t bump your head on the pole getting in. Haven’t tried it in the rain…yet. need to offer a footprint for it to protect the bottom.
Black Diamond Lightsabre Bivy Sack
Price: $149.93
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Black Diamond Big Wall Bivy Bag
November 18, 2007
Black Diamond Big Wall Bivy Bag
Product Description
Price: $209.90
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The Black Diamond Big Wall Bivy has been a favorite for alpine and big wall climbers throughout the world. This minimalist shelter is designed for harsh environments and technical climbs. The wire reinforcement in the hood cuts down on claustrophobia while the ToddTex keeps you nice and dry. Climbers love the Big Wall Bivy for its full strength tie in point which allows you to stay clipped in and sealed off at the same time.
Product Reviews
The best of its class and very breathable
I have spent some good time in many different bivies but none can compare to this one. Extremely breathable and totally waterproof. A very durable fabric and the tie-in points are an important feature when needed. Not too tight or too wide, just right. A minimalist bivy with some breathing room. Only complaint is not as durable as some other fabrics but will hold up to tons of abuse.
Black Diamond Big Wall Bivy Bag
Price: $209.90
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Black Diamond Alpine CF Trekking Poles - 1 Pair
November 18, 2007
Black Diamond Alpine CF Trekking Poles - 1 Pair
Product Description
Price: $129.90
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Black Diamond used carbon fiber material to reduce the Alpine CF Trekking Poles’ weight to a ridiculously low 17 ounces. The carbon fiber also reduces vibrations on the trail for less fatigue while you hike. Black Diamond used a combination of FlickLock and Binary adjustment systems to ensure the Alpine CF Trekking Poles adjust easily and stay solid no matter how wet, icy, dirty, or dusty they get.
Product Reviews
Alpine CF
Excellent poles. I questioned the ability to open flip locks with glove on, its extremely easy. Poles are very rigid and have a great design. Love the extended grips by Black Diamond, use lower part for ascending and upper portion for descending w/o changing lengths. Definitely recommended
Black Diamond Alpine CF Trekking Poles - 1 Pair
Price: $129.90
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Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles - 1 Pair
November 18, 2007
Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles - 1 Pair
Product Description
Price: $79.95
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The Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles are designed to aid your cross-country travel for all seasons. It doesn’t matter if you’re snowshoeing in the winter or hiking in the summer, this three-section pole from Black Diamond takes on any terrain. The Trail Trekking Poles use the FlickLock system for easy adjustment even with gloves on. When you’re traversing on a hill, the extended foam grip provides extra room on the shaft to hang onto.
Product Reviews
great stuff
These are very durable and nicely priced pair of poles. Much better than those twisty locks that constantly break.
For the Money
A great pole for the money. The extra long grips are a treat and help to make up for the fact that these do not absorb as much shock as the high-end poles. Best buy for the casual outdoorsman or for those that want a good pole but don t want to spend a large amount for it.
trekking poles
Found these poles to be sturdy, lightweight, easy to adjust.
WOW! Great Poles….
These poles are great for hiking! They really help your upper body with the inclines. Get the pole tip protectors for #3.90, it will help with the traction. You will not regret getting these poles if you purchase them….
Light and Sturdy
I think the Trail Trekking Poles are a great value. They actually weigh less than some of the more expensive models. I’ve never really hiked with poles before, and it’s been a relief on the knees and makes going down almost bearable.
Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles - 1 Pair
Price: $79.95
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Black Diamond Contour Trekking Poles - 1 Pair
November 18, 2007
Black Diamond Contour Trekking Poles - 1 Pair
Product Description
Price: $99.90
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The Black Diamond Contour Trekking Poles have an angled foam grip and solid FlickLock adjustment system to make your time on the trail as easy as possible. The angled grip on these Black Diamond trekking poles allow your hands to rest in a more comfortable position, reducing stress and wrist fatigue as the day drags on. The grips also extended down the shafts to provide an easy place to grab when you traverse a steep side hill. When you’re not using the Contour Trekking Poles, they collapse to 95cm (compact size) for easy storage in your pack.
Product Reviews
Not Bad
Light, nice mechanism. Easy to adjust straps and pole length. Carbide tip broke off at 3 months. I will see if Black Diamond warranty’s that part.
Great poles
Have only used these hiking around the State Parks in my hometown, but plan to take them trekking in Nepal in a few weeks. They are lightweight and very easy to use. plus they seem very very stable. I recommend them highly!!
adequate; overpriced
Use of trekking poles is great. Best to get the kind with the stiffer twist-tight sections. The snap-into-place bottom section that Black Diamond uses allows for some minor looseness and vibration. Comfortable.
Black Diamond Contour Trekking Poles - 1 Pair
Price: $99.90
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Black Diamond Spire Trekking Poles - 1 Pair
November 18, 2007
Black Diamond Spire Trekking Poles - 1 Pair
Product Description
Price: $119.90
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Oval-shaped Elliptic shafts give the Black Diamond Spire Trekking Poles increased stability and durability to take on all the abuses dished out by long days on the trail. Black Diamond gave the Spire Trekking Poles anatomically correct, dual-density handles to make your hike as comfortable as possible. A combination of FlickLock and Binary locking mechanisms make length adjustment quick, easy, and solid to keep you going mile after mile.
Product Reviews
Spire vs. Super Makalu
I have used trekking poles for the past few years and until recently had been a devotee of the LEKI Super Makalu’s. When I recently went to my local outfitters and found the new Black Diamond Spire, I knew I had to have a pair. The locking mechanisms and the elliptical design were what really caught my eye. They, in my opinion, are far superior to anything else on the market. The extended handle is also a major plus. I am glad I went with the new Spire and would encourage you to do the same. You won’t be disappointed.
Best ever seen poles!
These trekking poles from Black Diamond are excellent: easy-to-use, stable, nice looking and with a much better construction than the competitor’s one like Leki and Komperdell!
Saved my back
I did not think I could make it though a tough week long back country trip and a friend recommended these. They TOTALLY saved my back and knees. Now that I have a pair I am going to use them for even short day hikes.
Black Diamond poles saved my life.
Last summer the water was high in the Virgin River. Although my wife and I have completed such civilized hikes as the Camino de Santiago, we were new to long hikes in the backcountry. The Narrows are beautiful, but the steep walls left us confused about time of daylight left. We kept going too long. The light faded as we waded. My wife was swept away by the river and I pushed into the water after her. She made it to safety. I fetched against a rock and was being pulled under by water pressure on my pack. Black Diamond Contours allowed me to lever off without the poles slipping. Spires are stronger yet. And they don’t boing as much. Great poles!
New design, new benefits.
These poles are exactly what all the other reviewers have talked about. They’re great. Lightweight, comfortable, and easy to adjust. In addition, the price is right. The unique pole design gives the poles strength while retaining their lightweight. It would be nice however, if they collapsed smaller.
Black Diamond Spire Trekking Poles - 1 Pair
Price: $119.90
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Black Diamond Terra CF Trekking Poles - 1 pair
November 18, 2007
Black Diamond Terra CF Trekking Poles - 1 pair
Product Description
Price: $124.95
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The Black Diamond Terra CF trekking pole is so good it’ll make you toss all your old poles in the dumpster. Why First up, comfort. The Terra CF has a canted foam grip with a cork-like upper nub and lower grippy extension. This means the standard grip is comfortable, and you have a wide variety of other gripping options to choose from. Second, it’s easy. The upper adjustment uses the newest iteration of BD’s FlickLock system with length marks to take away guesswork. The lower section pulls out and clicks into place solidly and precisely every time with the Binary system. At just over a pound, you’ll have no weight complaints with the Terra CF, either. If you’re after the highest performance trekking pole with the best adjustment technology around, you’re after the Black Diamond Terra CF.
Product Reviews
worth every penny
I’m a pretty big guy (215lb) and these things stand up to everything I’ve done to them. They have a great swing weight and grip so you don t even notice you re using them. Also, the carbon fiber middle section makes these things weight next to nothing. I was able to power up hills like I never have before. One of the best buys I’ve made in a long time.
terra C/F
Well designed poles with good shock absorption. Anodization to upper shafts a little weak and they weigh slightly more than posted.
Terra CF’s
These poles are wonderful in every way, shape, and form. The carbon fiber mid section makes them light and strong. The handles on them make you forget that you have them in your hands. Even the swing weight of them just seems better than any other poles I’ve used. I’m a pretty big guy and they hold up my weight without a problem. And if you re rolling your eyes at the fact that they have no anti-shock system, please don’t take that into account, these poles make up for it in performance.
Perfect
Gear shouldn’t interfere. But I’m picky. I have a pair of Leki Makalu Ti AS and they are high quality if you don’t over-tighten. But the Black Diamond Terra Cf is it! First, they are strong and secure. The lower section (aluminum) has a fixed squeeze lock that is secure and is easy to operate even with gloves, if you avoid any twist when clipping or unclipping. The mid section (carbon fiber) is held by the famous flip lock which is quick and secure. They are definitely quieter because of the carbon mid section compared to all aluminum. And this mid section gives all the shock absorption I want. The anitshock spings in my Lekis are too mechanical feeling for my taste, and anti shock "give" dampens tip feedback, which I like. Grip material and shape, strap softness, and especially the forward tilt are a fit for my medium hands. Though I rarely use a choke down grip (but heck, why not for no weight), I do use the cork top knob on downhills. The Blue Ridge can be demanding on poles, but these stand up. BD has a new model with an oval shape (all aluminum), but I don’t think it’s possible to improve on the Terra CF. I like this US based company. You can find discounts with patience.
Repels Marauding Death Badgers Too
I m biased against shock absorbing poles. I want to feel terra firma, solid (or not) and shock absorption just doesn t feel right. I ve used these poles in the mountains of Idaho and Utah, wearing the baskets to tattered fragments of their former selves and love, I mean LOVE, these poles. If you re tall (I m 6.5 ), or not, these poles will help take you to the top of any peak (and back), faithfully stay at your side through any terrain, and reduce hand/arm fatigue through the clever application of the Science of Ergonomics. Quiet, flip locking, easy-to-use, carbon graphite fiber, aluminum marvels of modern gear engineering.
Black Diamond Terra CF Trekking Poles - 1 pair
Price: $124.95
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Black Diamond Shadow Backpack
November 16, 2007
Black Diamond Shadow Backpack - 45-55 L
Product Description
Price: $104.47
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Black Diamond created the Shadow Backpack for alpine climbers who carry half as much gear and move twice as fast as most people on long technical routes. Climbers who’d rather move fast than sleep comfortably love the Shadow Backpack’s ultralight SilNylon construction and minimalist, user-friendly features. This alpine pack comes with secure PickPocket ice tool holders, removable crampon straps, and slots in the waist-belt for ice clippers to help with racking gear. When ounces are at a premium, just strip off the waist-belt, lid, frame sheet, and bivy pad back-panel to cut the Shadow’s already light weight of 3lb 10oz to a scant 2lb 1oz (45L size). The 45L size is ideal for a 24-hour push, while the 55L is for climbers who would like to sleep somewhere along the line.
Product Reviews
Many Excellent Features, though Not Quite Perfect
I use the 55L version for trips that entail a long hiking approach with all my ski gear on my pack then I want a lighter pack once my ski gear is on my feet, or trips where I first have lots of gear to set up basement then I want a lighter pack for daytrips from basecamp. The Shadow is an excellent choice for these applications, although has a few annoying drawbacks: — The top lid can flop around like crazy in many situations. — The pack is very narrow at the bottom and then widens higher up, so when stuffed to its fullest, it’s somewhat unbalanced. — The tightening straps around the waist belt could use a dual approach (instead of one strap on each side). — With both the metal rod and the top lid removed, the pack works fairly well, but with the metal rod removed yet the top lid still in place, the pack becomes somewhat unwieldy at the top. Also, note that the waist belt has slots for a BD Ice Clipper, which provides a useful attachment point for other purposes too.
All Around Pack
First of all this pack is super durable lightweight and comfortable. I’ve taken this pack on two expeditions to china, used it as an ice pack, crag pack, lightweight backpacking pack, and it just keeps on ticking. I don’t have or really like the bigger frame packs, so I end up fitting everything I need into this one. For example- a couple days in the Winds this past labor day I took my sleeping bag, pad, cooking gear, food, a light rack and rope, other climbing gear, a few extra clothes and a couple 24 oz PBR’s. If you have this pack you are forced to trim down what you take but it’s kind of nice to simplify a little and cut away all the excess junk you think you need in the backcountry. You can always lash a lounge chair and down booties to the outside if you really need too…
good pack
Waistbelt, top pouch, Y-frame, bivy pad and crampon straps are all removable. It carries a cragging load comfortably without the Y-frame, but I haven’t tried a heavier overnight load with the frame yet. As other reviews online mention, the top pouch tends to slip around.
Black Diamond Shadow Backpack - 45-55 L
Price: $104.47
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Black Diamond Covert with Avalung Winter Pack
November 7, 2007
Black Diamond Covert with Avalung Winter Pack - 1343-1953 cu in
Product Description
Price: $199.90
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Black Diamond integrated an Avalung into their Covert Winter Pack to make backcountry ski days as safe as possible. This incredible pack impressed Couloir Magazine so much they gave it the Design Innovation award. The Avalung’s shoulder-mounted mouthpiece is easily accessible to help you survive in an avalanche by allowing you to breathe under the snow. In addition to increasing the chances of your living through an avalanche, the Covert Winter Pack has a dedicated avalanche-gear pocket for your shovel and probe, and carries either skis or a snowboard. Black Diamond made a 22L size for after-work laps and resort-accessed backcountry, and a 32L size for dawn patrols. *Avalung is not removable.
Product Reviews
is the sun up yet…
Feel like your tangled up with that old style avalung sling and your old backcountry bag. Black Diamond has combined the two effectively. On your left side you have your avalung and on the right you have your camelback. Both zip away nicely. The avalung exhales farther behind you and away from your body. I found that the 32l is great for a day tour with room for first aid food and extra layers. Carries skis diagonally and a frame style. It has an easily accessed pocket for your shovel probe and saw, I suggest putting longer brighter zipper pulls on that pouch to help opening with gloves and help others locate the pocket
Survive!
This pack makes me feel safe on the mountain in case of an avalanche. The pockets all have organization and having the hydration option is also a plus. It also is very nice for hauling skis and fits very snug on your back. Very good backcountry pack!
BD Covert 32
This pack replaces a seven year old DAKINE Heli Pro. I spend most of my time backcountry and the Heli Pro is a bit small for fitting everything in, but I’ve made it work and like it a lot. Picked up the Covert 32 (L) (I’m 5′10) it fits great. Has way more room than the Heli Pro, but packs down nice. I give it two thumps up. Only wish it had a small external pocket for carrying a couple of Clif bars or whatnot, but no biggy there.
great pack
get it - there’s no reason not to… there’s plenty of room for extended days tours and its simplicity is wonderful. It fit me well and stayed snug on back for both touring and heli skiing. You beat the added safety…
Great ski day pack
I love the simplicity. One pocket for stuff, one for avy equipment. Easy pulling zipper to access either. No fastex buckles to battle with when the thick gloves are on. The insulated shoulder strap works (OK, I did the blow-air-back-into-the tube trick too - but I still didn’t have a freeze up during a 5 degree day). Surprisingly comfortable given the minimal waist and. I’d recommend the 32L - 22L proved a bit small for more than water, gloves, lunch (no extra layer room).
Black Diamond Covert with Avalung Winter Pack - 1343-1953 cu in
Price: $199.90
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