ProLite Gear Blog

We at ProLite are happy to now offer NW Alpine from Portland, OR! NW Alpine specializes in functional apparel for mountain use and is proudly made in the USA. From their coveted NWAlpinist Salopettes to the Black Spider Light Hoody, NW Alpine is designed for movement in the hills. Feel free to swing on by our showroom at 421 W. Griffin here in Bozeman, MT or give us a call at 406-582-0508 if you want some great gear.

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ProLite Gear's Wednesday Night Ice Climbing is starting in its 3rd year this December. As in years past, rental gear is comped for those who would like to participate in this community event. Whether you are brand new to the sport, or a seasoned climber, everyone is welcome to enjoy a brisk evening of ice time fun up in Hyalite Canyon with ProLite Gear. Please check out ProLite's Facebook page for the most recent updates and times.

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ProLite Gear has Ice Climbing and Mountaineering gear available for rental here at our retail location in Bozeman. With a focus on technical equipment, ProLite has climbing gear available for rental such as Grivel G14 crampons, the current X-All Mountain ice tools from Cassin, and the latest E-Climb ice tools straight from Spain. ProLite is happy to offer this equipment and much more to anyone looking for more freedom in the hills. Feel free to swing on by ProLite Gear here at 421 W Griffin Dr, Bozeman MT or call us at 406-582-0508 to try out our amazing rental fleet. From technical ice climbing to trekking poles, chances are that we'll have something for you!

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ProLite Gear has been shooting some videos in our spare time and posting them to our YouTube Channel. We've been focusing on various lightweight and ultralightweight stoves as well as alpine packs recently. If anyone has specific products or categories that ProLite Gear should focus on, please feel free to comment on our YouTube Channel or at ProLiteGear.com.

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Lena climbing in Bear Canyon click photo to launch gallery

We just published a collection of images taken during a photo shoot with one of ProLite Gear's favorite customers and an amazingly skilled rock climber, Lena, that celebrate the sport of rock climbing.

View all the images from the Rock Climbing Photo Session with Lena. ...

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ProLite Gear is proud to offer finely handcrafted backpacking, alpine, and mountaineering gear from Hyperlite Mountain Gear (HMG).

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Attention Southwest Montana: The 11th installment of Spire Climbing Center’s annual bouldering extravaganza, FULL GRAVITY DAY, is scheduled for November 5, 2011. FGD is the LARGEST bouldering event in the northern Rockies, hands-down! Since its inception, FGD has been a fun and exciting event for climbers of all ages and abilities. FGD is com-petition, community, and camaraderie.

Sign up for the competition or go simply to watch the athletes defy gravity on steep bouldering walls. Registration opens at 9am so get there early. There are 2 heats, plus a surprise activity at 5pm (even we don’t know what it is!).

Full Gravity Day is also the largest fundraiser of the year for Bozeman based non-profit TOUCH THE SKY, whose mission is to get youth outdoors through climbing. www.touchtheskymt.org/

Get more info on the event and register here: Read More...

Over the weekend, one of our own here at ProLite Gear competed in the Sweetgrass Health & Wellness Raw Deal Run, 5k. Congrats to Rob for quite literally bringing home the bacon!

The race was held at the Raw Deal Ranch in McLeod, MT - just a few miles south of Big Timber, MT. Among the fifty-two finishers Rob came in fifth overall, third for men, and first in his age group. He doesn’t consider himself much of a runner, but as he says, “there was plenty of motivation!” That’s right; prizes for top finishers included a variety of meats from local producers. “This is way better than a medal. We’re going home to enjoy some local flavor for dinner tonight.” Whether you’re a born-and-raised cowboy or a city slicker, the event provided a good time for everyone. Post-race chili and live music in the barn finished off the day in good spirits.

What shoes was he wearing when he crossed the finish line? The GoLite Tara Lite, of course! The Tara Lite i...

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Baselayers can be boring or overwhelming, depending on your perception of clothing as equipment. The push in the past several years has been towards merino wool and now it seems like everyone and their dog is selling merino wool baselayers. Smartwool, Icebreaker, Mammut, and Patagonia are the big boys, but now all the smaller companies even have their own. What’s the difference? Wool is wool, right? Well, not exactly.

Many of these wool products are very similar, the main differences being in the production methods and quality. Some may have greater durability, use more environmentally sound methods, or use a combination of wool and synthetics in different places, but in the end they all get the job done.

The new Rab MeCo baselayers are a different animal because they use a blend of 65% merino wool and 35% Cocona (a coconut/nylon fabric designed to increase the garment’s drying time).

I got a chance to test out the Rab Meco 120 Tee recently a...

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Elephant Mountain (10,085’) is located in the northern Gallatin Range of Montana, accessible from the Blackmore Trailhead or reservoir parking area in Hyalite Canyon. Topographic details can be found on the Fridley Peak USGS quad.

From the reservoir, the trail is wide and easy to follow. There is only one junction very early on with the trail leading from the Blackmore Trailhead. You pass the other Blackmore Trailhead before reaching the reservoir. Keep this in mind for days when the trails are seeing lots of traffic – if one parking area is full, try the other. Or choose one of Hyalite Canyon’s many other trails/peaks. (Note: toilets are present at both trailheads). After approximately a mile and a half, the trail dips down to Blackmore Lake. Here we were entertained by two snowmen beautifully crafted by previous hikers.

From the lake you get your first good view of Elephant’s rocky flanks. The climb steepens here and you begin a steady climb for...

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Written by ProLite Gear Staff

Sometimes I’m not in the mood for a technical climbing trip but I still want a good old fashioned adventure. Maybe I’m tired from a previous week of climbing, or I just had a bit of a close call recently and need to get recentered and bolster my confidence. My girlfriend suggested a long day hike she noticed in Backpacker Magazine that would bring us far into the backcountry and challenge us, body and mind. I don’t normally follow suggested routes from publications because they tend to be extremely popular – this time was different.

The Taylor-Hilgard Unit of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness in the Madison Range of Montana sees some traffic but rarely a crowd. It’s home to Hilgard Peak, the highest in Montana outside of the Beartooth Range, as well as several other 11,000 foot giants. Since the shortest trail into the basin is 9 miles (then another 2 to the peak), it isn’t the most accessible...

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Written by ProLite Gear staff.

We didn’t summit. Nope, didn’t even come close. Our boots didn’t even touch the snow. Our harnesses never came out of our packs. So why am I writing this? Because we gathered beta for our next attempt and there’s really no information about this climb anywhere – except for a somewhat cloudy description in a local guidebook. Plus it was a good old fashioned adventure off the beaten path in a beautifully isolated mountain range called the Crazy Mountains.

My climbing partner and I set off for the 2000’ foot couloir of ice and snow on Saturday afternoon, planning to set up camp high on the mountain and summit the following morning. After just two miles we reached the point where the guidebook directs us to lose the trail and begin bushwhacking. We realized then what an undertaking this climb was going to be. A trip to timberline still leaves 3000’ vertical up a loose talus ridge...

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Written by ProLite Gear staff member Rob. This post is based on technical data provided by Klymit as well as personal experiences.

When I first started backpacking I used an inflatable sleeping pad that weighed about 3 pounds and took up almost as much space as some ultralight backpacks. Sleeping pads have come a long way since then, but Klymit seems to really be ahead of the pack with their Intertia X series pads. The Inertia X-Frame pad addresses several common issues with inflatable sleeping pads: weight, volume, warmth, ease of use, and durability.

At a mere 9.1 ounces, the X-Frame is the lightest full-length inflatable sleeping pad I’ve ever seen. Even if you bring along the included dry air pump, the total weight is still just around 10 ounces. When deflated and rolled up, it packs down to the size of a soda can. I can fit this pad in my pocket – something I would’ve never thought possible back when I was lugging around my 3 pound self-infla...

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As most of you already know, we here at ProLite Gear like to climb ice - a lot. We like to climb so much that a few years ago we decided to increase the available pool of ice climbing partners by renting out some of the more basic equipment (mountaineering boots, crampons, and even technical ice tools) to our local customers.

It worked! We get to climb much more now that our friends have no excuses to avoid the ice. They even started climbing with us on weeknights after work because there's just not enough time on the weekends.

Well, our rental fleet is expanding and we're hoping to gain some extra climbing partners this winter. Our current rental fleet includes 60+ pairs of boots, several sets of ice tools, and crampons. Want to try some overhanging mixed routes? Pick up a pair of "fruit boots" for increased accuracy and dexterity. Looking to tackle some bigger objectives this winter? Pick up a pair of 6000 meter boots.

We've got the boot you need...

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The staff at ProLite Gear field tests and reviews the Millet Peuterey. Watch the video review of this product....

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Millet's experience of more than 50 years in the development of products for the mountain has led them to become extremely rigorous: each raw material is chosen with great care, each function is studied, each prototype is tested in real conditions. Whether it is a pack, a pair of boots, a rope or protective clothing, it will only be put into production if it is perfectly adapted to its planned use. If Millet finds just one weak point in quality or functionality, they go back to the drawing board. It is from you the customer that Millet has collected the experience of the mountains that have led to this rigorous approach.

This sharing of experience, this intangible bond between mountaineers and MILLET products, which started more than 50 yea...

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Terra Nova means 'new ground', and this is reflected in their commitment to innovation and quality. An independent company for over a decade, they have developed a name for themselves worldwide, famous for the quality, reliability and technical expertise of their designs.

The drive to surpass even their most exacting customers' expectations leads to new developments being made throughout Terra Nova. Most recently they beat their own Guinness World Record for the lightest tent in the world with the Laser Photon, Weighing in at a scant 790g packed weight (740g minimum) for a double wall tent the Laser Photon will be essential kit for Adventure Racers and Mountain Marathon runners, and will catch the eye of any outdoors enthusiast who likes to move fast and light.

At Terra Nova their ...

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From a traditional ropeworks started in 1862 to a modern, advanced company for the development, manufacture and sale of ropes, netting, belts and equipment for mountaineering and outdoor pursuits, Mammut has become a leading brand in the climbing industry.

View the entire line Mammut products.

Mammut Wins Backpackers’ Editor’s Choice Award for 2008

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Save space and weight in your backpack by carrying the Big Agnes Clearview Air Pad during any summer or ultralight journeys. The rectangular Clearview gives you 2.5 inches of cushion yet rolls down smaller than you can imagine. Inflate this air pad and slip it into the back sleeve of your Big Agnes sleeping bag for a comfortable sleep.

View the Big Agnes Clearview Pads.

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The HyperFlow utilizes the latest Hollow Fiber Technology in a package so small and so easy to use it will change the way you travel in the backcountry. Its ergonomic design, diminutive size and tool-free maintainability make it just as appropriate on day trips as it is on multi-day excursions

The MSR (Mountain Safety Research) HyperFlow Microfilter has been honored as a recipient of a 2008 Backpacker magazine Editors’ Choice Award, the most prestigious award in the outdoor industry. The award is given in recognition of outstanding innovation in product design, materials and/or performance.

View the MSR Hyperflow Microfilter.

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Snow Peak has added a new family member to their collection of small gas stoves. The Lite-Max is fitted with 3 arm supports designed to give effective protection against the wind and its rigid shape makes it usable under the harshest environments. The most impressive feature the Lite-Max boasts is that it comes in at an incredible weight of only 1.9 oz.

View the Snow Peak Lite-Max.

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GoLite footwear builds upon an already radical departure to become the next progression of high performance running gear. From the leap-technology of the Isomorphic Suspension system to the continued application of innovative ideas and advanced materials, GoLite footwear is an aggressive move toward more stable, truer fitting trail running footwear.

Backpacker Magazine Editor's Choice issue hit newsstands Tuesday, March 11th. The Editors' Choice award is to pay tribute to new,top of the line products that illustrate a breakthrough in innovation, performance, and overall value. ProLite Gear is pleased to carry these award winning innovative products.

GoLite Adrenaline Bags
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ProLite Gear is proud to announce that we have expanded our line of Black Diamond products. We now carry Black Diamond packs and tents, designed for those who love the simplicity of being outdoors.

View all Black Diamond products.

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We are thrilled to be stocking lightweight, high performance products from Montane. This includes the Montane Featherlite Wind Smock - Launched as the lightest windshirt in the world. The Montane Featherlite was awarded Backpacking Light's Trails Best award. We are also stocking the Montane Featherlite Pant - a 4 ounce wind and shower proof pant.

View Montane's products.

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This grippy, durable, slip-on traction system features strategically placed stainless steel spikes connected to a dynamic flex-chain with a tough elastomer shoe harness.

View Kahtoola Micro Spikes

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The Icebreaker lightweight sock range offers superior breathability to keep your feet dry. The super-soft merino wool wicks away moisture, and low bulk ensures less rub and maximum comfort. Your feet will last the distance with these high-performing, highly durable socks.

View Men's Icebreaker Socks

View Women's Icebreaker Socks

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Rab, the leading British manufacturer of technical mountaineering garments, gear and accessories, is proud to announce that the Neutrino Endurance jacket has been awarded the highest rating, Five Stars, by The Alpinist Mountain Standards program.

“(The Rab Neutrino Endurance) is an alpinist's dream come true: maximum warmth to weight ratio in a lightweight, weatherproof package,” said Alpinist gear reviewer Chris Brazeau. “I know this piece will become a staple in my pack when it comes time for winter adventuring, from winter mountaineering to ice climbing to ski touring to bar-hopping on those cold nights.”

People who are familiar with Rab products know the quality is second to none, but their products can be a bit expensive. The Rab Neu...

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The new Montbell U.L. Down Inner Parka weighs just half an ounce more than the highly popular U.L Down Inner Jacket. A size medium weighs just 7.4 oz., and is filled with 2.1 oz of 800 power fill down. This down is top quality European goose down. Most down up to 600 power fill is from Chinese geese, and anything over 650 is usually higher quality European geese. The fit on the parka seems to be the same as the down inner jacket, so there are no fit issues with the parka. With a price of only $154.95 (only $15 more than the jacket) The Montbell U.L. Down Inner Parka is the lightest weight down parka in our store, and typical of all Montbell products, it doesn't sacrifice performance or quality.

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GoLite introduces a completely new range of insulated jackets for Winter 2007

The GoLite Inferno Jacket replaces the GoLite Cumulus. It includes 800 fill power down, and the shell GoLite's highly regarded Wisp fabric. This jacket weighs 15 oz. in a men's large. The GoLite Inferno Jacket seems to be cut better and fit better than the Cumulus it replaces, and the materials are are better than the Cumulus which had a heavier inside lining. At $199.95, the GoLite Inferno Jacket offers great value for a 800 fill down jacket. Most companies are using 650-700 fill and still charging over $200.

The Read More...

The new Jam2, Quest, Oddyssey, Pursuit... you name it we got it. Featuring great new features like 100% pu-coated Nylon Velocity fabric, and the compacktor technology that compresses the pack during low volume usage... these packs are a revolutionary step in pack design from GoLite.

View the entire line of GoLite Backpacks...

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We were super excited when we first saw these trekking poles at the buying show. Take a look at the Komperdell Carbon Featherlite Trek Pole, or view all of our Komperdell trekking poles. ...

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The run covers a distance of approximately 20 miles. And has 6,800 feet of ascent and 9,500 feet of descent. The maximum elevation is 9,665 feet above sea level. Much of the course is over rough and rocky terrain with obvious trail, and there are several moderately steep areas. The weather can be unpredictable. The 2005 race was run in snow(see image below).

Vaia Errett from Whitehall, Montana was the womens winner with a time of 4:27:23.7

Scott Creel from Bozeman Montana was the men's winner with a time of 3:07:35.8

Mike Wolfe, who recently won the The White River 50-Miler at Crystal Mountain, Washingto, finished second with a time of 3:08:42.1

Bridger Ridge Run Course Profile

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The White River 50-Miler at Crystal Mountain, Washington is a USATF national championship trail race and always attracts a strong field.

Mike Wolfe (Bozeman, Montana) won in 7:00 wearing his classic button-down collared synthetic western style shirt for the entire race. Mike wasn't favored to win the race, but is rapidly gaining credibility, and attention - must be the shirt!

Female Champion Nikki Kimball (Bozeman, Montana) won in a new course record of 7:40, eclipsing her previous mark of 7:45, Nikki has not lost a trail ultra since ... well, nobody can remember that far back. She also won at White River in 2003, 2004, and 2005, and is also the course record-holder.

Congratulation to Mike and Nikki for an excelent race, and for representing Bozeman so well!

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The Jay Challenge consists of racing for three consecutive days. Each day is considered a grueling endurance event by itself. Times are cumulative over the three days, and the winner is the one with the fastest time. Jenny's winning time was 20:20:10.44

Only the extremely fit athlete should sign up for this race. Last year in absolutely perfect condition the Jay Challenge had a 35 % DNF. The race is designed to increase the degree of difficulty from one day to the other. Day one is all about technique, day 2 is all about how hard you can push and day 3 is all about how mentally strong you are. Therefore 95% of the DNF happen on the last day.

Jenny was a member of Team Nemo in the 2006 Eco Primal Quest.

Congratulations Jenny!

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On July 4, long distance trekkers Roman Dial and Jason Geck completed the first and longest ever unsupported* trekking traverse of America's most remote, roadless, uninhabited wilderness, a distance of 1000 km (600 mi) across Alaska's western Arctic region from the Chukchi Sea to the Alaskan Pipeline.

Early in the expedition, Bozeman, Montana resident and expedition member Ryan Jordan fell through a shelf of river ice and badly sprained an ankle, requiring the party to adjust their already precarious schedule, travel off their maps, and navigate to a safe location for a bush pilot to land.

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