![\"bluewater](\"images\/stories\/bluewater_icon1.jpg\")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Spring is a great time to start preparing for your summer projects. It is also a great time to head to Indian Creek and Joshua Tree before the weather gets too hot. We have talked with many climbing and outdoor companies to come up with some of our favorite new climbing gear for 2013. This guide is for the men, but the women\u2019s will be right around the corner.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Bluewater 9.1mm Icon<\/strong><\/p>\n The all new Icon single rope is designed to be a great wearing skinny rope. The problem with most skinny ropes is overall performance is diluted when chasing a minimum diameter and weight. They really are not designed with the user’s best interest – safety and longevity in mind. The Icon has a 35% sheath mass with a tight braid so the rope does not become floppy and has less drag which means less abrasion from running across rock.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Diameter: 9.1mm<\/p>\n \u2022 Grams Per Meter: 55<\/p>\n \u2022 Impact Force: 8.8 kN<\/p>\n \u2022 UIAA Falls Held: 5<\/p>\n \u2022 Static Elongation: 7.2%<\/p>\n \u2022 Dynamic Elongation: 32.7%<\/p>\n \u2022 Sheath Slippage: -3mm<\/p>\n \u2022 Sheath Mass: 35%<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: $189-$250.00<\/p>\n \u2022 http:\/\/www.bluewaterropes.com\/home\/productsinfo.asp?Channel=Recreation&Group=&GroupKey=&Category=Ropes,%20Dynamic&CategoryKey=&ProdKey=368<\/a><\/p>\n Sometimes an idea comes along that is so simple it seems impossible to have overlooked it. A beautiful solution to a longstanding challenge. The Haku Rope Bag offers an elegant way to organize and manage climbing rope: a tarp and bag in one piece that rolls into a compact and tidy shoulder carrier. When folded out, the tarp provides protection from dirt and mud and serves as a platform to organize gear. Tie-in loops inside the tarp secure the rope ends, making it easy to find the sharp end. To stow the rope, simply lift the corners and the rope falls into the bag. To secure the load, roll the top over, clip the buckles and compress. To deploy the rope, unfold the bag, spread the tarp, tie in and go.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Integrated Features<\/p>\n \u2022 125cm x 125 cm\/ 4′ x 4′ Polyurethane coated groundsheet<\/p>\n \u2022 Pack Design & Construction<\/p>\n \u2022 Fits a standard 60 metre rope<\/p>\n \u2022 Internal carry strap for quick transport between climbs<\/p>\n \u2022 Pack Loading & Closure Configuration<\/p>\n \u2022 RollTop\u2122 closure<\/p>\n \u2022 Funnel loading system makes it easy to pack the rope into the main compartment<\/p>\n \u2022 Pack Compression Strap Configuration<\/p>\n \u2022 One compression strap<\/p>\n \u2022 Pack Attachment Configuration<\/p>\n \u2022 Two colour coordinated rope tie in loops<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: $69.00<\/p>\n \u2022 http:\/\/www.arcteryx.com\/product.aspx?model=Haku-Rope-Bag&language=EN<\/a><\/p>\n The SAMA harness is ideal for sport climbing. It is constructed for excellent weight distribution around the waist and legs to ensure greater comfort. The elastic leg loops remain adjusted and offer complete freedom of movement. The DoubleBack buckle on the waistbelt ensures quick and easy adjustment. The tie-in points are made of Dyneema in order to improve resistance to rope friction.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 EndoFrame construction guarantees excellent weight distribution for optimal comfort<\/p>\n \u2022 Specific stitching on the waistbelt limit hard points and chafing\u2028<\/p>\n \u2022 DoubleBack Light buckle allows quick and easy adjustment of the waistbelt\u2028<\/p>\n \u2022 Dyneema tie-in points for excellent resistance to rope friction\u2028<\/p>\n \u2022 Elastic leg loops remain permanently adjusted without restricting movement<\/p>\n \u2022 Four equipment loops: two rigid ones in front for quick and easy access to equipment and two flexible ones in the rear to avoid creating pressure points with a backpack\u2028<\/p>\n \u2022 Two slots for CARITOOL tool holder<\/p>\n \u2022 Rear loop for haul rope\u2028<\/p>\n \u2022 Detachable elastic leg loop straps<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: $69.95<\/p>\n \u2022 http:\/\/www.petzl.com\/us\/outdoor\/mountaineering-and-climbing-harnesses\/sama<\/a><\/p>\n A mid\u00adcut approach shoe inspired by the very specific demands of mountain guides, the Tech Ascent fits the bill when extra support is required for a long approach combined with moderate rock climbing. A board\u00adlasted shoe, the Tech Ascent is quite supportive but surprisingly light and very nimble on the rock. The midsole is dual\u2010density polyurethane, a design which provides good shock absorption yet still retains sensitivity to climb well. The shoe employs SCARPA\u2019s exclusive new Vibram Vertical approach sole, which simultaneously climbs more effectively and also provides better traction for descending loose terrain. Other details include suede construction, which molds to the foot, Gore-Tex for weather protection, and asymmetric lacing down to the toe for excellent fit.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Gore-Tex\u00ae Extended Comfort technology<\/p>\n \u2022 New Vibram\u00ae Vertical Approach sole<\/p>\n \u2022 Overlasted rubber toe rand<\/p>\n \u2022 1 pound, 2 ounces per shoe, size 42.<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: $239.00<\/p>\n \u2022 http:\/\/www.scarpa.com\/scarpa\/products\/CLIMBING-APPROACH\/p_72580-200<\/a><\/p>\n The Astroman were designed by Peter Croft for long, sustained multipitch trad adventures. The lace up leather offers extended ankle protection with Evolv’s trademark Trax rubber. These shoes are designed to merge all-day comfort with confident performance for edging, smearing and jamming.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Mid-top upper for ankle and medial and lateral malleolus protection<\/p>\n \u2022 Low profile forefoot for increased ability for jamming in thin cracks<\/p>\n \u2022 Durable leather upper<\/p>\n \u2022 Leather foot bed<\/p>\n \u2022 The padded achilles patch provides comfort and allows free articulation of the ankle for precise toe placement<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: $145.00<\/p>\n \u2022 http:\/\/www.evolvsports.com\/shop\/climbing-shoes\/astroman\/<\/a><\/p>\n The Westcomb Crest hoodie has been one of my favorite spring jackets. It’s a 5 ounce windshell made of Pertex Equilibrium. Designed to be highly wind-proof and moisture wicking, the Crest ensures that despite the spring breezes, you’ll stay dry and comfortable. Made of soft-faced Equilibrium — a quieter, more subtle, and more breathable cousin of the shiny Quantum that is the industry standard in this category.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Napoleon Pocket<\/p>\n \u2022 Fixed Helmet Compatible Hood<\/p>\n \u2022 Stretch Cuff-Closure<\/p>\n \u2022 Pertex\u00ae Equilibrium\u00ae<\/p>\n \u2022 150g \/ 5oz<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: $140.00<\/p>\n \u2022 http:\/\/shopwestcomb.com\/crest-hoody.html<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Available in special edition quantities with numbered labels inside each parka, the Encapsil Down Belay Parka is an extraordinary work of design and engineering. A first of its kind, this parka is 100% independently baffled and differentially cut without a single shortcut or “cheat” where a seam has been sewn through, resulting in a cold spot. Weighing 18 ounces (510 grams) and insulated with Patagonia’s proprietary, plasma-treated, water-repellent Encapsil\u2122 1000-fill-power down, the belay parka is unparalleled in warmth for its weight, designed for alpinists to take into the burliest of conditions. Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Ultralightweight 100% nylon shell fabric with a polyurethane dry coating has excellent water repellency<\/p>\n \u2022 Helmet-compatible, baffled hood has a single drawcord that creates a small draft collar of down around the face<\/p>\n \u2022 Variegated baffles are smaller in high-compression areas, like the shoulders and the small of the back, to keep the down from shifting; double-baffle wind flap completely seals out cold and wind<\/p>\n \u2022 Exterior handwarmer pockets are independently insulated to retain precious warmth, even with the pocket zippers open; the high position keeps them away from the harness line; large interior mesh pockets placed toward the back reduce bulk in front<\/p>\n \u2022 Flexible, low-profile cuffs sit soft on the arm and easily push up and out of the way; regular fit accommodates layers<\/p>\n \u2022 Unique pull-system at hem lets you adjust drawcord from inside or out; drawcord won\u2019t dangle or snag on harness, rocks or branches. Mini snowskirt keeps out wind and snow from below<\/p>\n \u2022 The Encapsil Down Belay Parka is a numbered, limited edition garment which should serve you beautifully for years to come. <\/p>\n \u2022 Shell: 0.85-oz 10-denier Pertex\u00ae Endurance fabric 100% nylon ripstop with a polyurethane dry coat. Baffles: 0.3-oz 100% nylon mesh knit. Lining: 0.82-oz 10-denier Pertex fabric 100% nylon ripstop. Insulation: Encapsil\u2122 1000-fill-power premium European goose down<\/p>\n \u2022 518 g (18.28 oz)<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: $699.00<\/p>\n \u2022 http:\/\/www.patagonia.com\/us\/product\/patagonia-encapsil-down-belay-parka?p=84645-0-065<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Gramicci Organic McKay Performance Tee<\/strong><\/p>\n The McKay Tee is Gramicci\u2019s newest NPT athletic crew. Sculpted, engineered seams and added stretch make the McKay Crew the perfect athletic performance piece. Gramicci’s NPT Kinetic Knit absorbs fast, dries fast, regulates body temperature, combats odor and assists in regulating body temperature all naturally. NPT- Natural Performance Technology \u2122. The dynamic properties of the hemp blend in the shirts make them antimicrobial, meaning they will not smell after sweating. The shirts also help to maintain a consistent comfortable body temperature. Unlike other popular choices in performance wear, a true conscious attribute is that these shirts are made of toxin free Hemp and GOTS Certified organic cotton.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Athletic Fit: Comfort slim-fitting technical garment that’s not tight, but designed to be close to the body without the constriction of compression.<\/p>\n \u2022 Engineered flat seams for chafe resistance and comfort<\/p>\n \u2022 Engineered raglan seam with rib knit for ease of movement<\/p>\n \u2022 Wash separately in cold water before wearing<\/p>\n \u2022 53% Hemp 44% Organic Cotton 3% Spandex<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: $48.00<\/p>\n \u2022 http:\/\/www.gramicci.com\/shop\/organic-mckay-performance-crew-p-7813.html<\/a><\/p>\n Designed primarily for alpine use the Torque Pants feature a slim technical fit, reinforced knee and kick patches, zipped leg closure to accomodate larger boots\/improve fit and stretch fabrics mean great freedom of movement. These features make the Torque Pant ideal for summer alpine north faces or for long rock routes, but also great for walking and trekking in the mountains.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Matrix DWS fabric with Matrix SWS in articulation zones<\/p>\n \u2022 Ripstop Matrix SWS fabric at knee and hem<\/p>\n \u2022 Wicking elasticated waistband with shockcord adjustment<\/p>\n \u2022 YKK zipped fly opening<\/p>\n \u2022 2 YKK zipped handwarmer pockets<\/p>\n \u2022 1 YKK zipped rear pocket<\/p>\n \u2022 YKK zipped leg closure with elasticated cuff<\/p>\n \u2022 Knee articulation<\/p>\n \u2022 Reinforced knee and kick patches<\/p>\n \u2022 Inside leg length 81cm\/32inch (on all sizes)<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: $130.00<\/p>\n \u2022 http:\/\/us.rab.uk.com\/products\/mens-clothing\/leg-wear\/p-torque-pants-p.html<\/a><\/p>\n If you are one who struggles to wear pants climbing or your spring climbing involves temperatures above 80 degrees, you might want to try these shorts. The Vertex Shorts are a lightweight climbing short in Matrix SWS fabric. The Matrix SWS fabric is lightweight, quick drying, and comfortable whilst offering durability and sun protection. The Vertex features 3 zipped pockets along with more climbing specific features like a double snap waistband closure for security, and articulated knees and stretch fit for fantastic freedom of movement.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Matrix SWS fabric<\/p>\n \u2022 2 YKK zipped hand warmer pockets<\/p>\n \u2022 1 YKK zipped thigh pocket<\/p>\n \u2022 Double snap waist closure<\/p>\n \u2022 Belt loops<\/p>\n \u2022 Knee articulation<\/p>\n \u2022 Inside leg length 35cm\/14inch (L)<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: $65.00<\/p>\n \u2022 http:\/\/us.rab.uk.com\/products\/mens-clothing\/leg-wear\/p-vertex-shorts-p.html<\/a><\/p>\n A belay\/rappel glove that overlooks no detail in building a more user friendly, durable product, the Air Brakes were the result of extensive athlete feedback. Outdoor Research combined supple but tough leather on the palms with stretchy and abrasion resistant polyester-spandex on the back of hands, as well as neoprene cuffs, to yield a form-fitting, highly durable glove that feels like it\u2019s already broken in. Gel packs for padding and heat dissipation are built into the leather palms, with additional leather reinforcement, in exactly those areas where ropes pass across the hand. Thoughtfully placed ventilation holes in the sides and back of the leather fingers keep things cool without sacrificing durability.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Vented Fingers and Palm<\/p>\n \u2022 Leather Overlays on Palm for Durability<\/p>\n \u2022 Kevlar Stitching on Palm<\/p>\n \u2022 Hook and Loop Wrist Closure<\/p>\n \u2022 Gel Padding at Palm<\/p>\n \u2022 Ultra Tactile<\/p>\n \u2022 Durable<\/p>\n \u2022 Breathable<\/p>\n \u2022 Wicking<\/p>\n \u2022 Quick Drying<\/p>\n \u2022 Carabiner loops<\/p>\n \u2022 Men\u2019s and women\u2019s styles and colors.<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: $49.00<\/p>\n \u2022 http:\/\/www.outdoorresearch.com\/en\/or-gear\/gloves\/men-s-airbrake-glovestm.html<\/a><\/p>\n Metolius redesigned their curve hexes for considerable weight savings. They eliminated the swedge and attached the body cable to the hex head via a silver soldered cone. The heads are anodized to match the cable collar for easy size identification. With the new hexes, you\u2019re getting the range of a cam at a fraction of the price and weight.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 New design makes the hexes over 10% lighter per set<\/p>\n \u2022 Anodized heads and collars are color\u2010coded to match cam colors<\/p>\n \u2022 11 mm Monster slings for better extension and less rope drag<\/p>\n \u2022 Hand built, inspected and tested in Bend, Oregon<\/p>\n \u2022 Available in sizes #5-\u00ad\u2010#10 (sold as a set or in singles)<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: $134.95 (for full set)<\/p>\n \u2022 http:\/\/www.metoliusclimbing.com<\/a><\/p>\n The smallest MSR Reactor system is ideal for soloists or two people looking for Reactor performance in the lightest and smallest possible configuration. Add the Hanging Kit to make it the ultimate hanging cook system. A narrow base and sliding tensioner ensure maximum stability, easy, one-handed access to cookware and compatibility with all MSR Reactor systems.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Integrated System: State-of-the-art stove and high-efficiency cookware are combined into a compact, self-contained and easy-to-use system.<\/p>\n \u2022 Unrivaled Boil Time: Outperforms the competition in head-to-head lab tests\u2014boiling .5 liter of water in just 1.5 minutes\u2014with an even greater advantage out in the real world.<\/p>\n \u2022 Unmatched Wind Protection: Heat exchanger completely encloses radiant burner head, virtually eliminating the effects of wind to maintain outstanding boil times and save fuel.<\/p>\n \u2022 Maximum Efficiency: Patent-pending radiant burner, heat exchanger and internal pressure regulator produce best-in-class, fuel-sipping efficiency in all conditions.<\/p>\n \u2022 Compact: All systems are self-contained, fitting the stove and fuel inside the pot. (1.0L Reactor System nests optimally with our new, smaller-diameter 4 oz. canisters.)<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: Stove – 169.95<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: MSR Reactor Hanging Kit – $29.95<\/p>\n \u2022 http:\/\/cascadedesigns.com\/msr\/stoves\/stove-systems\/reactor-stove-systems\/product<\/a><\/p>\n The Grivel Mago 14 is a perfect little pack for climbing with the ability to bring a few extra items on a climb. With its single\u2010shoulder design, the Mago solidly sits in the center of the back with the ability to swing around to the front providing quick access to the contents inside. While fully loaded with approach shoes, water, headlamp, and food, this lightweight pack makes it feel like nothing is on the back. Complete freedom of movement is allowed thanks to the Mago\u2019s unique shape and single\u2010 shoulder strap. In addition to the main zippered compartment, the pack has a zippered pocket on the front and a gear loop and cellphone\/camera pocket on the shoulder strap.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Weight: 298 grams\/10.5 oz<\/p>\n \u2022 Volume: 14 Liters\/854 cu in<\/p>\n \u2022 Material: Ripstop Nylon<\/p>\n \u2022 Suspension System: Mago<\/p>\n \u2022 MSRP: $49.95<\/p>\n![\"arcteryx](\"images\/stories\/arcteryx_haku.jpg\")
Arc\u2019teryx Haku Rope Bag<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"petzl](\"images\/stories\/petzl_sama.jpg\")
Petzl SAMA<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"scarpa](\"images\/stories\/scarpa_techascent.jpg\")
SCARPA Tech Ascent GTX<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"evolv](\"images\/stories\/evolv_astroman.jpg\")
Evolv Astroman<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"westcomb](\"images\/stories\/westcomb_crest.jpg\")
Westcomb Crest Hoodie<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"patagonia](\"images\/stories\/patagonia_encapsil.jpg\")
Encapsil Down Belay Parka<\/strong><\/p>\n
<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"gramicci](\"images\/stories\/gramicci_mckay.jpg\")
<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"rab](\"images\/stories\/rab_torque_pants.jpg\")
Rab Torque Pants<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"rab](\"images\/stories\/rab_vertex_shorts.jpg\")
Rab Vertex Shorts<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"OR](\"images\/stories\/OR_airbrake.jpg\")
Outdoor Research Air Brake Gloves<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"metolius](\"images\/stories\/metolius_hexes.jpg\")
Metolius Ultra Light Curve Hexes<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"MSR](\"images\/stories\/MSR_HangingKit_System.jpg\")
MSR Reactor 1.0L Stove System and Hanging Kit<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"grivel](\"images\/stories\/grivel_mago.jpg\")
Grivel Mago 14<\/strong><\/p>\n
![\"petzl](\"images\/stories\/petzl_ultra_vario.jpg\")
Petzl ULTRA VARIO<\/strong><\/p>\n