a5 - Recent messages

If you can't beat them...join them.

It's a waste of energy for the PZS to compete with the OeAV regarding insurance.

I would find it more logical to have an OeAV Slovenia Section for insurance and discounts abroad. In our huts only PZS should apply without reciprocity. And it should be possible to join directly in the hut.

The sun can transform snow too. Happened to me last weekend, late start, solid snow for a while then sun really softened it. Not very pleasant.

Wondering if avalanches at midnight are less likely than during the day. Wouldn't surprise me if so.

Yes, I have similar experiences with ProMontana. I gave them my contact details so they could order something for me ... more than a month passed and they didn't even call to say, hey sorry it won't work. Similar ignorant attitude also at one other shop.

But I'm excited that they sell DMM. They don't complicate discounts either. In person ok attitude. I bought the DMM Cirque ice axe there, couldn't be more satisfied. Noticeably higher quality than Nepal SA. I plan to buy DMM sets there too (Alpha Trad) and extra karabiners. So for some things ProMontana is good. I'm glad I don't have to order DMM by mail.

I'd say the best value is to buy top quality synthetic bags. Top quality down is about 3-4x more expensive than synthetic.

For down, the peak technology now is treating the down with special brews to make it "sort of" water-repellent. A few years ago this tech was still in its infancy, now these things are supposed to be more perfected. Next season Rab sleeping bags will use this technology. Waste to buy new stuff that's not the current peak tech.

For the SVK, it's essential that the carabiner is light and easy to use. Otherwise, it quickly gets on your nerves switching every few meters. BD Easy Rider undoubtedly has the best carabiner for via ferratas. I have it myself. If buying again, I'd probably go for Iron Cruiser. It's almost as good but 20 eur cheaper.

The BD might bother you with a slightly larger and heavier "pouch" but in practice it doesn't matter. Other makers have smaller pouches but heavier and clumsier carabiners. No doubt worth paying a bit more for BD Iron Cruiser or Easy Rider.

For safety, the most you can do is check the SVK per manufacturer's instructions. Check production year and lifespan. And see if there was any recall http://safety.theuiaa.org/front/front_search_list_recall.php (Energy absorbing system).

If the harness doesn't fit well, it's throwing money out the window. Not worth buying something that chafes etc. Especially for long via ferratas. In your case, I'd definitely go for a women's-specific harness.

Ideally, leg loops open so no need to pull boots through. And great if it has a clip at the back for attaching elastics.

If you're from Kranj, go to ProMontana to check harnesses. They've always given me 20% discount on nice request. Say

http://www.promontana.si/oprema/plezalna-oprema/plezalni-pasovi.html?spol=451

Especially that Puma Lady harness is from last season so wouldn't take less than 20% off. Or something like that

http://www.iglusport.si/zenski-pas-plezalni-primrose-sa/3

For 50 eur you get a super comfortable harness.

Helmet needs to be light and ventilated. One you put on and forget you're wearing it. If buying again, probably Mammut Rock Rider. In your case try Petzl Elia (285g).
Half Dome isn't exactly a gem among helmets.

Price difference between OK and SUPER is maybe 20%. Especially if you haggle for discounts.

This BD kit is down from 200 eur to 140 eur. If you take
BD Iron Cruiser = 80 eur + 50-60 eur harness + Petzl Elia 53 eur. Comes to less than regular BD kit price without discounts. If you haggle more, close to the discounted kit price.