Black Diamond’s Bungled Beacon Safety Messages

Black Diamond really shit the bed with their most recent beacon safety statement. I know what you’re thinking, “you’re a year behind,” but no, these are *new* safety issues with Pieps and Black Diamond beacons. I have a lot of thoughts about their communication and their decisions varied from somewhat to wildly unethical. But I … Continue reading Black Diamond’s Bungled Beacon Safety Messages

Gear Review: Women’s Coalition Snow SOS Skis

In my most recent review of the Elan Ripstick 102 W, I mentioned that there’s a lot of repetition in the women’s 100-something ski space: moderate flex, carbon laminates, -8cm mount point and 1700g in weight. I call them Vanilla skis. They’re palatable crowd-pleasers, and they make a lot of sense in the wide, women’s … Continue reading Gear Review: Women’s Coalition Snow SOS Skis

Gear Review: Women’s Elan Ripstick 102 W Skis

I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again. Skis in the mid-100s give me déjà vu. Lots of directional skis with a moderate flex and carbon laminates that clock in at 1700g. They’re accessible to progressing intermediates, but supportive enough for experts, and pretty versatile around the mountain in soft snow climates. The Elan … Continue reading Gear Review: Women’s Elan Ripstick 102 W Skis