One of the great things about climbing after Christmas is  chance to try out all those new toys you got over the holidays as gifts or on sale. And I am guilty as charged!

I recently went ice climbing in Ouray and then made the summit of Colorado 14er, Quandary Peak in temps well below zero and winds gusting over 30 mph. Perfect time to try out new gear.

In Ouray, I used my new Black Diamond Cobra ice tools for the first time. I had bought them on sale at the BD site and was anxious to see if they lived up to their well-earned reputation – I was not disappointed.

Over on Quandary, the harsh conditions were perfect to try out some new products from First Ascent, their merino wool base layers plus my new Hestra leather gloves. Let me say, my body never got cold.

To read all the details, check out the reviews on each piece at Gear Review.

Climb On!

Alan