Hi Guys <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Every piece of gear is a compromise. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> This is the reason we spend endless time discussing gear combinations that work, and those that don't. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> Every tent, jacket, boot, pack, sleeping bag, and pair of gloves is a compromise with some not so good features and hopefully some sterling features. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> When choosing gear for any particular trip, if you change even one piece of gear from a working set, you have to take into account a lot of things. Like changing coats for instance, may require changing shells, pants or bibs and hats because the new item will not excel at the same things as the old item. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />

I have often noted that changing even one major piece of gear necessitates a complete review of every other piece of gear taken to be sure the new set has the correct functions. :Changing tents could provide a lot more excitement than you were prepared for. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" />

In the Winter you should be over prepared. I use this rule - if I take a new item that is supposed to replace an old item - take the old item along as well on the first trial, unless its really heavy, or alternately, you test the new item at home before going.

Oh and a Winter Safety Note - here in the Central Cascades we have cold weather and deep loose snow. This will create bad avalanche hazards later in the year. Learn about avalanches BEFORE you go out hiking in the winter, it could save your life or that of someone you care for. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> Never go to the melted edge of ice around a lake for water <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/ooo.gif" alt="" /> , its safer to melt snow. Never get within 15 feet of an abrupt snow edge, you could fall through, and STAY OUT OF GULLIES including small streams where you could maybe get water or maybe be buried under 40 feet of snow. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

Do not ski across lakes and the idea of walking on a frozen lake when you could hike the shoreline, is just stupid. Hiking on a frozen lake is MUCH more dangerous than skiing on one. Of course if you know an area, then your knowledge exceeds this generic advice - beware, not all advice is suitable for all customers.

I had a disclaimer once. "Anyone who does life threatening sports should not rely on information gleaned from the Internet." <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

Jim <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />