Reviewer Reports: Storm Cycles, All-Mountain Skis, 3D-Printed Goggles, & More (Ep.282)

Ski & Snowboard Goggle Roundup — 2024 

A good pair of goggles can end up being one of the most essential pieces of gear for a fun day on snow. We’ve been testing a *lot* of them lately, and in this roundup, we compare and contrast more than two dozen — from ultra-high-end flagship models to more budget-oriented (but still impressive) alternatives.
Blister 2024 midlayer and insulation roundup

Midlayer & Insulation Roundup – 2024

As the temperatures continue to drop in the northern hemisphere, many of us are thinking about and adapting our layering setups. Midlayers and insulators are a vital part of this, especially when it comes to balancing cold temperatures with high-output activities. In our new Midlayer & Insulation Roundup, several of our reviewers discuss some of their recent favorites.

Flash Review: Luke’s Opening Day Gear: Rossignol Forza, Lange Shadow, Rab Vapour-Rise, & Anon Goggles

We're back on snow! And in this special opening-day Flash Review, Luke Koppa shares some thoughts on the Rossignol Forza 70D V-Ti, Lange Shadow 130 LV, Rab Vapour-Rise Summit Jacket, & Anon M5 goggle.

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What We’re Wearing, Skiing 23/24: Luke Koppa

Most of our reviews and conversations have the goal of helping you, our audience, figure out what gear might work best for you and your particular preferences, circumstances, etc. However, it can be fun (and sometimes, maybe, even illuminating) to occasionally shrug off the cloak of objectivity and just talk about what we personally use and enjoy. In our new “What We’re Wearing” series, we’re doing just that, having several of our reviewers run us through their head-to-toe kits for this winter. First up, our managing editor and self-diagnosed apparel obsessive, Luke Koppa.

Layering 101: Types of Outdoor Apparel & How to Layer for Different Activities & Climates

There are a zillion new baselayers, insulators, and shells out there — and the options are constantly evolving and diversifying. So in our updated "Layering 101" guide, we sort out what makes certain types better / worse than others, and outlined how we think about layering for various cold-weather outdoor activities.
Zack Henderson reviews the Fox Proframe RS for Blister

Fox Proframe RS

Fox released the Proframe RS as an evolution of their long-standing Proframe helmet, adding a swath of new features and safety technologies. After a long winter season in the Proframe RS, we think it's a great option for folks looking for a lightweight, highly-ventilated full-face helmet.
Kara Williard reviews the Flylow Domino Jacket and Siren Bib for BLISTER.

New Outerwear Update: Women’s Flylow & Trew

We’ve been testing some updated and interesting kits from Trew and Flylow this season — check out Kara Williard’s initial impressions.

Blister’s Flash Reviews and Deep Dives are accessible to those who purchase one of our paid subscriptions

To get our comprehensive Deep Dives and our initial, unfiltered reports on new gear, become a member and receive many other services, deals, and discounts.

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New Outerwear Update: 686, Beringia, & Trew

We’ve been testing a few very interesting new ski / snowboard kits from 686, Beringia, and Trew — check out Luke Koppa’s initial impressions and apparel nerdery.

Blister’s Flash Reviews and Deep Dives are accessible to those who purchase one of our paid subscriptions

To get our comprehensive Deep Dives and our initial, unfiltered reports on new gear, become a member and receive many other services, deals, and discounts.

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Kara Williard reviews the OR Shadow Insulated Hoodie for BLISTER.

Midlayer Roundup 2022

If you're in the market for a new midlayer, be sure to check out this roundup — our reviewers compare and contrast 19 different men's & women's insulators, ranging from ultra-breathable fleeces to a variety of puffies and softshells. We've just updated it with 7 new additions from Patagonia, Outdoor Research, Strafe, Le Bent, & Artilect.
David Golay reviews the Lazer Jackal KinetiCore for Blister

Lazer Jackal KinetiCore Helmet

Lazer’s new KinetiCore technology is intended to bring the rotational impact protection benefits of MIPS and other similar systems to a simpler, lighter, more comfortable package, and having now spent a couple of months in their Jackal KinetiCore mountain bike helmet, we think they’re onto something.