Mountain High Boot Camp
It’s boot review season here at Sierra Descents—I’m currently trying out pairs of Garmont’s Radium and Helium boots, Scarpa’s Spirit 4, and the much-anticipated Black Diamond Factor. Along for comparison were my trusty Lange L10′s and Garmont Mega Rides. I should have reviews up on all of them after the holidays. In the meantime, I had fun and thoroughly wore myself out mixing and matching boots inbounds today at Mountain High East ski resort. Video shows me on one Lange and one Factor going down Gold Rush, shot via the VHoldR ContourHD 720p helmet cam. Tricky thing with the VHoldR is always mounting the damn thing. Today I was using the VHoldR’s goggle strap attachment, which is why the video is both crooked (listing right) and so jiggly. Maybe the goggle attachment works better with a helmet? Ah well, I’ll keep working at it…
6 Responses to “Mountain High Boot Camp”
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Robert K says:
December 20th, 2009 at 4:44 am
I’m sure there’s a good reason, but seems like getting gear reviews for high-profile equipment, like boots, out before the holidays would be more useful for reviewers (and generate more page views == $$$ for you).
That goggle mount system for the VHoldR definitely needs work. Would love to hear recommendations for a sub-$200 HD helmet cam setup that doesn’t suck. Seems like the Flip Ultra ($149 on Amazon right now) might be a good starting point.
The Flip isn’t exactly a great form-factor for helmet mounts, but this videoshows a pretty decent looking Do It Yerself setup.
One thing I like about the Flip (disclaimer: ‘don’t actually own one) is that it’s popular enough to have a pretty good market in 3rd party accessories. (e.g. an underwater case, which is probably a good idea for any sort of outdoor use)
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Robert K says:
December 20th, 2009 at 4:44 am
*ping* (forgot to check the “notify my of followup comments” box)
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Robert K says:
December 20th, 2009 at 4:45 am
*dooh* … and meant “readers”, not “reviewers” in original comment. As Janet Jackson said, “You can edit that out, right?”
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Andy says:
December 20th, 2009 at 9:13 am
Bob, you’re right I do wish I could get everything out before Christmas, but unlike some other media outlets, I do actually try to test my gear before I ‘review’ it.
ps – just get the VHoldR. It’s currently the best helmet cam for sports, mounting woes and all.
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Chris says:
December 20th, 2009 at 11:36 am
Hi Andy,
I’m super-interested in seeing what you come up with. I think this is the last season for my Mega Rides, and with my “rando-race” board 80mm in the waist, and my standard go-to 90mm, and everything else even fatter, I’m starting to wonder if its worth getting the next-stiffer model. You’re feedback will be great.
Cheers
Chris -
Andy says:
December 20th, 2009 at 8:11 pm
Chris, I should have some good info for you when I wrap everything up. I’m giving these boots a workout…stay tuned.
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