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Local's favorite gear

by Greg Moore

Liquid Logic Remix kayak

"This kayak is a somewhat longer version of a modern creek boat, with a rounder cross-section," said Greg Moore, a reformed kayaking addict from Ketchum. "Paddling short, sluggish boats, many kayakers are missing out on the joy of doing fast ferries and zipping in and out of eddies, as well as the security of easily paddling around big holes."

Grigri 2 belay device

"I use this new, lighter-weight Grigri 2 in combination with a Black Diamond ATC-Guide device for multi-pitch climbs," said Jeannie Wall, an avid rock-climber based in Blaine County. "The ATC-Guide device is attached to an anchor to belay from above, and the Grigri is used by the climber to belay from below. That way, there's an automatic locking system from each side, no matter who's belaying. It gives you the benefit of safety on belay without added weight."


Thermarest NeoAir Xlite mattress

Unlike standard Thermarest camping pads, the NeoAir is an air mattress with no foam inside. Even so, by using reflective material, it provides an R-value higher than that of the company's smallest self-inflating foam pad. "This new sleeping pad is an amazing combination of light weight and comfort," said Ed Cannady, a lifelong backcountry traveler. "And it only weighs one pound."

Filson fly vest

"My Filson fly vest is the best-made fly vest I've ever seen," said Don Hodge, a Ketchum fly-fisherman. " The dark green, heavy cotton vest has adjustable shoulder straps and zippers instead of Velcro, so it's got just the right amount of pockets. It's more expensive than the average vest, but it's well worth it, and will last a lifetime."

Castle Frameworks mountain bike

"I love my single-speed, hardtail mountain bike," said India Wysong, a self-described "socially competitive" biker from Hailey. Custom-made by Castle Frameworks, the bike is the creation of Eric Coury. He fabricates steel and titanium frames for road, track and mountain bikes out of his Hailey workshop. "He measures you and gives you the most perfect fit, and then welds the bike together and you choose your color."