I thought the silk would perform better than my cotton money belt (with breathable mesh backing), but this pouch was significantly larger than my old money belt. On a trip to Australia (during their summer), I found the silk much too warm -- and with it spread across my hips/lower abs, it was just too much to bear. I went back to my old, worn out money belt and was much happier for the remainder of the trip.

I wasn't ever crazy about the fabric panels on the Denali (or the attached premium price), so I ordered the Khumbu instead. On sale it was a bargain on BackCountry and it was a great choice for me!

Sizing was as expected, once I learned that it was a roomier fit througout (including in the shoulders, where I tend to be a bit broad). Go by the size chart and know that there will be some extra rooom. To be safe, I ordered both the small and the medium and the small fits perfectly. This is a bit different than the TKA 100 1/4 zip fleece; I typically order those in medium so I can have a layer underneath if necessary. Same is true for any TNF fitted top.

The fleece is cozy and soft; I haven't had any problems with pilling as of yet.

I ordered the Brunette Brown color and think that the online photo, while a decent representation, looks a smidge darker than it does in person.

This is a useful, basic (passport) size for a hidden travel wallet. I have worn out my moneybelt and have been in the market for another -- or another option.

Unfortunately, I rarely wear a (pants) belt when travelling. However, with some modification, this can work with pants/shorts buttons (attached through the button with the wallet flipped back into the pants) -- or even attached with a safety pin as I saw on another website's review.

Additionally, women could wear this attached to their front-closing bra or even attached through the bra strap and then tucked under the band. Both of those options could work well for me, as sometimes I get tired of wearing a money belt on my stomach/hips.

This "undercover hidden pocket" is a convenient size that I wish more moneybelt/pockets/wallets used. It's a far more convenient size than Eagle Creek's silk undercover Bra Stash.

I ordered one each in small and medium and when I received them I was disappointed at how small they really were. Even though I'd studied the dimensions online, I was expecting the small to be the size of the medium and the medium to just be... a bit bigger still. I thought I would have to return them.

Turns out, those little buggers actually hold quite a bit! Before returning them, I decided to try and stuff them. The small size held 16 pairs of rolled (ladies) underwear -- cotton, nothing dainty. The medium held six (6) rolled t-shirts and I estimate there was room for at least two (2) more. I've attached a photo of the packed cells.

It turns out they will work well for my travels, and because they are so lightweight, will be particularly useful keeping my stuff organized in my carry-on luggage. I say, to heck with checked baggage!

Love this lightweight wicking polo. It's fun and stylish and easy to pack.

According to the size chart, I was between a small and medium. I ordered both and kept the medium because it fit better in the shoulders (I have broad shoulders for my frame). I had a difficult time tracking down the shirts's shoulder measurements, so if you have an athletic frame you may want to size up.

The sizing chart is accurate, the shorts fit as expected.

The white shorts are not as thick and durable as I believed from other reviews. (I had been picturing Carhartt "durable.") In fact, because my legs have some color -- I'm olive-toned even when not tan -- you can sort of see my legs in parts of the shorts where fabric isn't doubled, like where the front pockets end. It's not a big deal, though; I don't feel exposed.

Great deal on Backcountry! I may order one in olive green...

I'm a big fan of Dansko's "Professional" line -- I've been wearing them since 1997 -- and I particularly love this (brown) tapestry style. They are a nice alternative to the oiled and cabrio styles. They are super cute and still not too common. I receive comments on them every time I wear them.

Durable fabric, though on the stiff side. Positive zipper -- not flimsy. The handles are soft vinyl, but they look a little cheap because of the sheen.

Inside there are three open pockets on one side, one of which has an elasticized top, and there's one zippered pocket on the opposite side. The main compartment has a full zippered closure. The exterior has two magnet-closure side pockets.

The Ava Purse is plenty roomy -- more roomy than I need for a purse, but there are plenty of other larger purses one the market. What I like best is that it can be a practical, everyday purse; I won't feel like there isn't enough room and it can be tossed into the car or the gym locker without fear of damaging it or getting it dirty.

I ordered this in the Houndstooth style, but contrary to the photo shown on the site, there really isn't much contrast in the pattern. It oftentimes looks like it is solid black. The bright, high-contract lining (lime green, pink flowers) is fun, but I'm glad it's not more prominent (i.e., featured as an accent on the outside of the purse).

** Updated on 11/14/2011 **
Finally decided to return this. I got tired of the cheap feeling (and slippery) straps slipping off of my shoulders -- and I have broad shoulders for my frame! Also, it turns out there can be too much of a good thing, and I mean roominess. This is just too large of a bag for me to use as a purse.

I was looking for a well-made, lightweight, packable jacket with hood that would be good for slight drizzle or sudden downpours while hiking at home in the Pacific Northwest or out on my travels. After much research, I settled on the Marmot Minimalist and have pretty much not been disappointed.

The Gore-Tex Paclite membrane is so thin, so protective and, yes, so wonderful! The whole jacket can wad up or pack nice and flat, yet the Gore-Tex membrane keeps rainwater at bay. I HATE the feeling of sweat and moisture buildup in my jacket on a rainy day, and the Minimalist keeps me dry AND breathes well so I can avoid feeling sticky and just plain icky.

If considering this jacket, do pay attention to the sizing chart. Unfortunately, I fall in between sizes. At a petite 5'3" and 120 lbs., my measurements fell smack dab in between small and medium. To be safe, I sized up to the medium. The fit is less than ideal as it does feel a bit too big, but I am more comfortable with the fit when I'm wearing several layers underneath -- though no matter what I'm wearing, the sleeves are too long.

If, like me, you are in between sizes, Chat with someone from Backcountry and they can arrange to have both sizes sent; they will include stuff to return the one that you choose not to keep (you pay for both, but know that one will be returned and refunded).

Very comfortable slide -- and stays on the foot well. The size runs small in general and for KEEN (compared to the H2 footbed), so order a 1/2 size up; I ordered an 8 instead of my usual 7.5 and it fits well.

For KEEN H2 wearers, in addition to the sizing difference, this footbed is different. For me, the footbed is better; I've found the H2s aren't as comfortable as they could be.

As usual, great price on Backcountry.

Lightweight and nice-sized bag for a day hike. It has comfortable straps, a padded back and nicely placed sternum strap.

Holds plenty of water and there's additional space to stuff a light jacket, snacks and first aid stuff. The outermost zippered compartment holds smaller items in divided pockets.

One thing some users may not like is the perceived strength of the fabric -- which feels thin, like it could rip easily. My preference was for a lightweight pack, so I am okay with the thinness versus potential durability of the fabric.

With this pack, I also purchased CamelBak's Tube Trap to keep the tube out of the way, but still easily accessible.

Like another reviewer, I added a pair to get free shipping -- and I'm pleasantly surprised. My boyfriend has some Fox River socks that he likes, so I thought I'd try a pair of my own.

The socks are quite comfortable. I like the extra cushioned areas in the toes and heel -- the areas that always wear down first -- and I like the arch support which is not too tight.

I also like the height of the socks, which are perfect for in a hiking boot when I want to wear shorts.

Can't say much about the wicking properties since my feet aren't all that sweaty, but part of the sock's comfort comes from its breathability.

Threw this in my "cart" to bump up my order the $.05 I needed to get free shipping -- that alone makes it worth the purchase price.

Fork appears to be decent for a plastic fork. Went through the dishwasher a-okay (had to test it, right?) and seems durable enough for multiple uses, while still being lightweight for packing around.

Have two of these (one purchased on Backcountry, one was a gift -- also from Backcountry) and I chose them because they were supposed to be like the TKA 100 Glacier MicroFLEECE pullovers. They are a bit softer and they appear thinner/lighter, but still keep me nice and warm, the perfect temperature. It is still fleece; it is not like those velour tops of yesteryear. :-)

The fit is similar to the microfleece, perhaps a smidge roomier and longer. The sizing chart is fairly accurate. I'm 5'3" and 120 lbs. with an athletic frame and I find the Medium to work well. It's a little loose if worn alone, but there's room to layer underneath for greater flexibility.

Well-made for lightweight flip-flops. Unlike other reviewers I don't believe the sizes run large. I'm a 7.5 medium width, so based on the reviews I purchased a size 7, but found them to be snug in the straps and the footbed was just a wee bit short on length. I gave them to a friend, but I ordered another pair in a size 8 and found those to be the right fit.

The only seeming oddity as far as fit goes is the toe room. There's plenty of room for long toes!

Well-made for lightweight flip-flops.Unlike other reviewers I don't believe the sizes run large. Normally, I'm a 7.5, medium width, so based on the reviews, I purchased a size 7, but found them to be snug and just a wee bit short on length. I kept them as it is a bit of a hassle returning $5 flip-flops, but I ordered more in a size 8 -- several pair for myself and some as gifts since the deal is so rockin' -- and found those to be the right fit.

The only seeming oddity as far as fit goes is the toe room. There's plenty of room for long toes!

My size and fit are just like the review below ("reb..."). It is an athletic cut, so keep that in mind - especially if you are between sizes in the size chart (order a size up).

I LOVE the lightweight microfleece. It doesn't weigh me down or feel bulky when I'm layering. I've worn my two TKAs over and over again this past month (I want to live in them) and they are holding up well in the wash - they still look new. Looks great for everyday wear, and I even get to wear them to work when I don't have a meeting!

Purchased this as a gift for boyfriend, so I relied on the size chart which is accurate. He's 6' and an athletic 185-190 lbs and the fit of the large was great, just as expected.

It's incredible how much protection this soft (nice to the touch!) and lightweight jacket provides! It seems like everything would go through it -- rain, wind, chill -- but it handles them quite well. He tested it in 34-degree weather with only a cotton long-sleeve shirt; it should be a bit warmer for only that sort of insulation, but it will work well with different layers -- either underneath or over -- to meet just about any condition within reason.

Additionally, it's so thin and lightweight that it can pack down to an incredibly small package. Will work well when we travel abroad during the spring and fall -- it could be crammed just about anywhere! ;-)

Overall, is a nice, thin option for weather in the Pacific Northwest!

I got my first pair of Danskos (oiled Professionals) back in 1997 and I've been addicted ever since. Each pair lasts me 2 years, minimum -- and I had at least one pair of Monika sandals that lasted for 8 years -- after extensive use at home, at work and various travels near and far (cobbled streets of Italy, deserts in Arizona, city streets of London). Not only are Danskos comfortable, but they are durable.

MATERIALS: Contrary to the review submitted by "maren," I prefer the Cabrio Professionals because they are more rigid. The oiled leather I wear out too soon (it may just be the way I walk, because I tend to wear out the upper area over my big toe!). While the Cabrios are more rigid, this does not mean that they lack the ability to stretch. I compared my new Danskos to my current Danskos (haven't worn a hole in them... yet) and I can see where my current Danskos have stretched to fit my foot. However, if you are concerned about mantaining a shiny appearance, they will eventually show some scuff marks -- not as bad or noticeable as a patent leather, but it won't blend as it would with an oiled leather. I don't know if the scuffs can be removed; I haven't tried to remove them as I don't think they're all that noticeable.

SIZING: Over the past several years, I noticed that the sizing has gotten smaller. I'm typically a size 7 to 7.5 and used to be able to get size 37 Danskos; I now have to size up to a 38 for optimum comfort. If they feel a bit too narrow, it's possible that it may take a some time for them to stretch. As I mentioned above, they WILL stretch to form to your foot within reason; however, they should not feel TOO tight.

COLORS: You can't go wrong with the staple colors. I live in black Danskos, but have a couple other sandal varieties in other shades of brown. I can wear them with jeans, shorts or even with most of my (office) work clothes. Danskos are popular with nurses -- another testament to their comfort -- so they are available in other places in other colors (such as white).

ORDERING FROM BACKCOUNTRY: Fast shipping, questions can be answered via chat session, good return policy should you need to use it. Haven't had a bad experience yet. I'm always wary of sizing issues, particularly with shoes, but since I am confident of my Dansko sizing, ordering shoes online was a no-brainer -- what with the free shipping, tax-free shopping, and discount coupon (if available).

Bought this shirt for my guy who is a Carhartt fanatic. He loves their pocket t-shirts for their comfort and durability (they're a thicker cotton). He wears them just about everywhere -- in the summer alone or in the winter as a layer. Like others have noted, the sizing runs on the large size which, I think, is standard for Carhartt (cut and fit for the workin' man!). My guy usually wears a large in just about everything -- except Carhartt when a medium provides a better fit, with still plenty of room for comfort.

Nice fit, lower on the waist than others - which is a plus for me since I'm on the petite side. I would agree with "ceo195..." in that they sit about an inch below the navel. I ordered up a size from what I might usually, following one of the other reviewer's suggestions. Thus, they do not fit like a pair of pantyhose (thank goodness!), but rather comfy enough to sleep in. Nice light warmth without the bulk. My only complaint so far is the length - they are long - but since the fit is so nice, they easily roll back without being too bulky around the ankles.

Got a great deal on a jewel blue Wavy on Backcountry.com! I had been searching for a stylish, lightish-weight jacket that was waterproof, windproof, and would keep me warm -- whether I chose to layer or not.

Read other reviews (on this site and others) and will agree that the sizing runs small - but that's something that can be determined by careful review of the SIZING CHART (a "must do" if ordering anything online). While I typically am a size small, the sizing chart had me choosing between a small or a medium - I chose the medium and I chose well. It fits just as I would want. The inner jacket/liner is more form-fitting than the shell, but works great at keeping you toasty.

Other people have complained about the inner jacket/liner being of a snap-in variety, rather than zip-in. I read one review where the person complained about the inner jacket/liner "constantly falling out" of the shell. I can't even fathom how that would happen as the snaps and loops seem pretty secure. I've even flopped it around and the liner stayed in place. Additionally, I actually prefer the snap-in as it allows for a bit more flexibility in wearing the tri-climate. Had it been a zip-in liner, then I wouldn't be able to wear the inner jacket/liner fully zipped, but still have the shell open or half-zipped.

The hood is detachable (zip and clip) and while there is no pouch by the hood in which to tuck it into, there are plenty of pockets to stash it. The jacket even comes with a lift clip, goggle wipe (clipped), and a portable electronics (aka iPod) pocket.

I think this is the perfect solution for our Pacific Northwest fall/winter/spring, and I will happily tote it with me to Germany and Austria this December. The tri-climate should be an efficient way for me to stay warm and eliminate extra packing for layering to stay warm; a good pair of pants, a t-shirt and the triclimate should be all I'll need to stay warm!