Testing Approach: Real-World Rigor
At Boulder Gear Lab, I don’t use treadmills or sensors. My “lab” is the high-alpine terrain of the Front Range. I replace sterile measurements with a systematic, analytical approach to how gear performs when it actually matters.
The Testing Framework
Every review is built on a foundation of high-mileage exposure and comparative analysis. I don’t publish “first impressions” only; I publish conclusions.
1. The Mileage Threshold
I believe gear doesn’t reveal its true character in a weekend. Ideally, every product meets a strict minimum usage requirement before a review is written:
- Running Shoes: 50–150 miles across varied terrain.
- Bikes & Components: 100+ miles in diverse weather and trail conditions.
- Apparel & Tech: Extended seasonal use to test breathability, durability, and battery life.
2. The “Boulder” Variable
Living in Boulder, Colorado, provides a unique environmental stress test. My testing grounds include:
- Vertical Extremes: Testing breathability and gear shifts from 5,000 to 10,000+ feet.
- Technical Terrain: Pavement, gravel, jagged singletrack, and alpine scree.
- Climate Swings: 60°F temperature shifts, intense UV, high-altitude snow, and gale-force winds.
3. Analytical Synthesis
As a Data Scientist, I look past the marketing “hype” to identify the mechanical reality of a product. I evaluate gear based on:
- Systemic Failure Modes: Identifying where materials are likely to fail first.
- Market Context: Positioning the product against its direct competitors in price and performance.
- Edge Case Performance: How does it behave when conditions get ugly?
Independence & Objectivity
Trust is the only currency in gear reviews. To remain 100% objective, I adhere to a strict code of conduct:
| I Do | I Do Not |
|---|---|
| Accept gear provided at no cost for review purposes only. | Accept payment for positive coverage. |
| Disclose when a PR sample is being tested. | Allow brands to “preview” or edit my reviews. |
| Keep, return, or donate samples after testing. | Sell tested gear or maintain any active athlete sponsorships. |
| Provide honest, unfiltered critiques. | Use manufacturer-provided talking points. |
My Philosophy on Ratings
I evaluate products on a 1–10 scale across five core dimensions:
- Fit & Comfort: Is the geometry/ergonomics correct?
- Performance: Does it deliver on its primary intended use?
- Durability: How did it look at mile 1 vs. mile 100?
- Value: Does the performance justify the MSRP?
- The “Fun” Factor: Does this gear make you want to get outside?
The Boulder Gear Lab Difference
Most reviews are based on a spec sheet. Mine are based on 100,000+ miles of movement and a PhD-level commitment to asking the right questions.
I’m not looking for the “best” gear — I’m looking for the right gear for specific people and specific conditions. No fluff. No hype. Just the data from the trail.
Have questions about a specific test?
Get in touch to learn more about my process or to suggest a product for evaluation.