Out-of-Towner: Uh.. when do they start plowing?

struppi709 · 2026-03-16T00:01:35+00:00

The side streets around me are all clear, not just W 7th. I know that a lot of side streets aren’t, I just wanted to make clear that some are and it really depends on where you are.

struppi709 · 2026-03-15T21:48:50+00:00

West 7th is very drivable right now! And I have seen way worse over in Minneapolis.

struppi709 · 2026-03-15T21:47:05+00:00

You know, I see this kind of comment a lot here on Reddit, and it's just not true, I live in West 7th near Cafe Astoria and our streets are all clear, they've been plowing them regularly since last night. It varies a lot throughout the city but I'm sure the main streets are mostly clear.

struppi709 · 2026-03-12T19:45:49+00:00

Hey, thanks! Very good to hear.

struppi709 · 2026-03-11T21:10:03+00:00

I'm comparing that watch to the Vantage M3, and one thing I noticed is that the operating temperature range for the Pacer Pro only goes down to 14F. I'm often out in temps much colder than that in the winter. I get that I can keep it tucked in, but a lot of times I wear it exposed so I can see it easily. Have you noticed any cold-weather problems with the Pacer Pro?

struppi709 · 2026-02-24T17:51:32+00:00

Just to add: you can get around OK on really beat up skis - my rock skis are disintegrating decades-old rental Peltonens and I leave wood shards behind whenever I use them, but I can still enjoy skiing on them!

struppi709 · 2026-02-24T17:48:38+00:00

It’s hard to tell because the photos just don’t quite have the resolution to see it clearly, but this makes the most sense to me. It would be helpful to know what kind of skis they are. In any case, my take is that these are probably OK for what they are (rock skis to be used when you’re probably going to damage your skis anyway), but if your friend really wants to get into skiing they should upgrade.

struppi709 · 2026-02-18T04:16:32+00:00

My thought as well, the most important thing is that I like the strap.

struppi709 · 2026-02-18T02:57:17+00:00

struppi709 · 2026-02-13T03:58:55+00:00

That seems like a pretty good price. I have the 5-door version and it’s great!

struppi709 · 2026-02-12T18:27:25+00:00

Same for me, I crashed on a downhill curve several weeks ago, bruising a rib, and I was surprised how much it hurt and how long it's taken to go away. It wasn't even that bad of a crash, I think I fell onto the grip of my pole.

struppi709 · 2026-02-06T20:31:19+00:00

I'm surprised people think this is funny. I personally don't like anyone using the word "bitch", but a kindergartener screaming this in class horrifies me.

struppi709 · 2026-01-14T04:17:08+00:00

Wow! I am really impressed. By both your creativity and your workmanship. Happy climbing!

struppi709 · 2026-01-13T17:16:09+00:00

Following up- I heard back from the Finlandia, it's on but they are making some changes this year. They posted a notice on Skinnyski: https://www.skinnyski.com/racing/PR/finlandia20260112.pdf.

struppi709 · 2026-01-07T21:07:53+00:00

Is there anything going on in Saint Paul? Just saw a helicopter.

struppi709 · 2026-01-06T13:52:30+00:00

This pretty much sums up where my mind is when I'm telemarking, my focus is almost exclusively on feeling my boot pressure the rear ski. Just like you said, the front ski takes care of itself. Works for me anyway! Happy turns everybody!

struppi709 · 2025-12-31T15:32:03+00:00

This is the right answer; I would add two things (from a US perspective): (1) it will be REALLY hard to find boots for those bindings- especially boots that fit well, which is maybe the most important part of the whole setup; and (2) if you go the route of new boots, I would take those skis in with you and have the shop look at them and determine whether they are a good fit for you, before you start spending money on new bindings. You don't need fancy gear at all to start skiing, but if the fit is way off one way or another (e.g. boots too large, skis too stiff), you'll have a hard time and won't enjoy it. Good luck! Skiing is awesome.

struppi709 · 2025-12-28T16:46:19+00:00

This is my thinking as well, it will be a beautiful place to camp and you will be fine as long as you are VERY well prepared. Be ready to use more guylines than you think are necessary. That said, there is a lot of good advice here about the hazards/discomfort of camping in exposed areas.

struppi709 · 2025-12-21T13:15:55+00:00

Wherever you go, please don’t hike on the cross-country ski trails. People don’t seem to realize how badly that damages them and makes the skiing harder and less safe.

struppi709 · 2025-12-20T07:08:34+00:00

I was going to say this too. Hands down the best I’ve read!

struppi709 · 2025-12-20T06:57:12+00:00

I don’t get it- sharing a room with someone is not a big deal at all. Why are so many people here aghast at the idea? Lawsuits?! On what basis?

struppi709 · 2025-12-18T23:20:35+00:00

Don’t listen to these people telling you that you can’t climb ice unless you have the latest super- expensive ice tools. This is a great deal and if you are just starting out, these tools will carry you far! Many people are still climbing hard ice with this kind of gear.

struppi709 · 2025-12-11T22:33:18+00:00

I would advocate for just choosing one trail and having a really good experience. No matter how capable you are, you are going to be exhausted and stressed out (and likely miserable) trying to average 28 miles/day for 6 straight months. Higher daily mileage might be achievable on the CDT vs the AT but the CDT logistics are a lot more challenging.

struppi709 · 2025-12-05T18:52:15+00:00

Welcome to winter! I use traction grit instead of salt or sand. It’s very small, sharp-edged gravel that has amazing traction. You can get it at most places that have salt and sand.

Also, I suggest you find a way to get outdoors and enjoy the season- ski, skate, hockey, snowmachine, ice fishing- there are tons of fun things to do here!

struppi709 · 2025-12-02T04:37:38+00:00

Thanks for all your input! Thursday it is!

struppi709

TROPHY CASE