Featured

Time to throw away your Nalgene bottles

There’s been numerous articles recently written on the problems that have surfaced regarding Nalgene bottles. Since most climbers own one of these, I decided to look into what is actually going on.

I was in the REI in Bailey’s Crossroads, Virginia recently and I didn’t see a single Nalgene bottle on the shelves. A foreboding sign itself. There’s usually an entire row of shelving with the now ubiquitous bottles in all shapes and colors.

Following the move made by Canada’s MEC, REI has now pulled all Nalgene bottles from their shelves. Nalgene has announced that they will stop making bottles out of polycarbonate.

Polycarbonate contains a chemical called bisphenol A (BPA) which has been linked to numerous health problems including breast and prostate cancer, brain damage, endocrine system disruptions, higher levels of testosterone in men and women, recurrent miscarriages, and chromosomal defects in fetuses.
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Popularity: 8% [?]

Bouldering

Gear Review: Revolution Uzi Crash Pad

I’m a firm believer that a serious boulderer needs three types of crash pads. First, there’s the all around workhorse crash pad. At a standard size of about 40″ by 50″ feet, this pad will take care of the vast majority of your bouldering needs. Most crash pad models fall into this category and you likely already own at least one.

The next category comprises the extra large pads. Meant for highballs, maximum coverage, or frequent solo bouldering adventures, these monsters usually measure 50″ by 60″ but often times can get much larger. The Revolution 12-Gauge is an excellent example of this type of crash pad.
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Popularity: 10% [?]

Events

Red Rock Rendezvous Review

The Backcountry Blog has an insightful and partially negative view of the recent Red Rock Rendezvous.

As it turns out, being a pro climber does not necessarily make you a great instructor. It does make you an excellent advertiser though, and it was clearly conveyed what company makes the best equipment.

While the author didn’t appreciate the trad clinic, apparently the rest of the event was a great success.

I’ve been meaning to attend this rendezvous the past few years and have never made it. Did anyone attend this years Red Rock Rendezvous and have similar experiences?

Popularity: 18% [?]

News

Quick Sends - 5/12/08

The Olympic torch reaches the summit of Mt. Everest

Rocky Mountain National Park may get wilderness protection

Dream in Vertical takes us on a Bishop bouldering trip with tons of pics

Barbara Zangerl makes first female ascent of Pura Vida (8A+/B) in Magic Wood, Switzerland

Daniel Woods completes new 8c in Magic Wood

Check CAMP Tricams for possible problems

Peter Beal’s essay on climbing past 40 on FrontRangeBouldering.com

Popularity: 2% [?]