"Testers chose it again and again because of its warmth, toughness and minimal packed size." -December/January Issue Climbing Magazine
Brent Peters of Yamnuska Mountain Adventures is the author (along with Kendra Stritch) of the soon to be published Ice Lines: Select Waterfalls of the Canadian Rockies.   Brent estimates he has climbed in the Black Spider Hoody and Simplicity Jacket for over 100 days. Here's his review!
Â
Brent Peters on Aussi Beau
Functional clothing; that's exactly what's needed when ice climbing in the Canadian Rockies. While working on Ice Lines, a new select guide to waterfall ice in Canada I needed to complete an ascent of Aussi Beau, a Guy Lacelle original. We spent the night in Jasper and drove out to Robson in the morning. It was March and the avalanche path had already slid providing a better approach. Its a stiff hike up to the base with plenty of elevation gain. The Black Spider Hoody was just the right weight over a merino wool T, with maximum breathability. On the route, I added the Simplicity Jacket for added wind protection and warmth. Both garments stay well stuck under my harness. It was Kyle's first day on a true pillar. He was shocked as the ice released a winter's tension. Shooting cracks raced away from my picks as I swung into the initial apron. Patience and deliberate movement were the name of the game that day. A hanging belay below steep bobbles of ice that marked the final crux made the exposure even more real. The massive S Face of Mt Robson glistened in the sun behind us as we dealt with our cold reality.
The Black Spider Hoody and Simplicity Jacket
combination has also been the go to for my summer of alpine guiding. At times I
add a softshell over top of the Simplicity Jacket. I like how it reflects my
body heat back in towards the core. It has eliminated the requirement for
heavier base layers.
 Brent higher on Aussi Beau
Brent and partner hiking up Boundary Glacier in the Black Spider Hoody, heading up to The Shield to gain access to A2, one of the satellite peaks of Mt Athabasca
Brendan sends us this note from the field: I had the chance to test your wind jacket this weekend in some harsh leisure conditions. It performed very well. Brisk morning temps in the 60's at boat speeds were no match for the wind breaking power of tight weave ripstop. It also successfully repelled the occasional errant bass splash and wake sprinkle. But by far the jacket performed the best during a midnight motor out to chum for Stripers. If only our fishing luck worked as well that night.
Brendan
