The Black Diamond UltraLite Mix STS Climbing Skin is supposed to make your days on the mountain easier – unfortunately, this product does not always deliver. There are many reports of the skins peeling off the skis after only minimal use, the skins not being as sticky as other options, and many issues with durability, glide, and glue performance. Even though the skins are lightweight and transport easily, you should make sure you are comfortable with the reported downsides before purchasing.
The Black Diamond Stubby Haul Bag is a durable, functional, and lightweight option that is great for cragging, all-day trips, and various outdoor activities. We recommend using this bag to carry gear for one day, or for transporting awkwardly shaped and heavy items you might not place in a usual backpack. It also can be used as a smaller secondary haul bag for longer trips. Despite not being watertight and not as big for some who need to pack ample gear, this is a great all-day excursion pack.
The Black Diamond Speed 40L Backpack is a well-rounded, functional, and lightweight pack that suits those who want a minimalist all-around choice. Despite limited features, such as no outside pockets and limited-breathability back panel, the ability of this pack to carry heavier weights and lighter weights efficiently makes it a great choice for 1-2 day adventures.
The Black Diamond Dawn Patrol 25L Backpack is a compact, durable, and lightweight option that is well-suited for one-day excursions on the mountain. Despite some users wanting more compartments and a little more space, the high-quality materials, small profile, and functional pockets make this a good option for those who don’t need to carry too much gear and want a durable backpack for a full day on the mountain.
The Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Softshell Pant for men is a comfortable, weather-protective, and versatile option that is well-suited for various outdoor activities due to the ample range of motion and weather-resistance. Even though the pants aren’t completely waterproof, the light weight, durability, and high-quality materials make this a top-notch choice.
The Black Diamond Creek 35L Backpack is a functional, waterproof, and comfortable pack that is well-suited for climbers. The technical features like the ability to top-load the pack, removable hip-belt, and ability of the bag to stand upright all make this an extremely functional and convenient backpack that is designed for climbers. Despite being a little small for a full day of climbing essentials, if you are a climber that packs lightly and has someone to help you carry some essentials, this could be a solid choice.
The Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Softshell Jacket for men is a weather-resistant, comfortable, and breathable option, that combines an active-use jacket with weather-protective capabilities. The technical features, like helmet-compatible hood and harness-compatible fit, make this a great choice for outdoor activities, while the DWR treatment and wind-resistance enhance the protective qualities. Despite some issues with sizing, if you can find a size that fits you well, we recommend this jacket for any outdoor adventurer.
The Black Diamond Stormline Stretch Rain Shell Jacket for men is a durable, waterproof, and mobile option for those who need a high-quality weatherproof jacket that can withstand various conditions. The lack of drawstring on the hood is one of the only flaws, with plenty of weather-protective options found elsewhere on the jacket, like the adjustable waist, high neck, and helmet-compatible hood.
The Black Diamond Camalot C4 is an easy-to-use, durable, and reliable cam, that will aid any level of climber on the wall. Besides horizontal placements, this cam will perform proficiently in almost all other types of climbing scenarios, with easy color coding, a Trigger Keeper for organization, and double-axle design.
The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe with Grip is a functional, versatile, and easy-to-use ice axe that has proven to be a good all-around option on the mountain. The less-aggressive shape in the pick makes it not ideal for steep terrain and hard ice, but for most mountain conditions, this axe is just what you need.