Fav Gear
We Are One
Convergence Wheels
Everyone knows that it is increasingly difficult to get gear that is manufactured locally. WAO is not only doing that, they are simply making the best wheels on the market with their Convergence line of wheels. The wheel profile provide a straighter spoke angle which increase strength and longevity of your wheels. And with their amazing after-sale service and lifetime warranty, their products are a no-brainer.
One Up Components
Carbon Bar
One Up Components is one of my favorite brand altogether. They are my go-to for great quality gear. Their carbon bar takes the cake though! They look great, their sweep angle reduce fatigue, and are offered in my preferred rise (35mm). Finally, since their shape is not perfectly circular, they offer a vertical compliance which provide a more comfortable ride while not sacrificing horizontal stiffness.
Bike Yoke
Revive Dropper Seat Post
If you are in the market for a dropper seat post, you can't go wrong with a Bike Yoke Revive. They are simply the smoothest, best functioning droppers that I have ever had, period. They have a fully serviceable cartridge, the rebuild kit is cheap and the full service takes about 20 minutes. The internal pressure can be adjusted, so that you get the rebound speed that you want. Finally, with the "Revive" switch at the top of the post, you can bleed the the post on the fly to remove any cushy feeling that usually develop with use on any dropper, no rebuild necessary.
Hayes
Dominion A4 Brakes
These brakes were initially recommended by Remy Metailler. I was skeptical at first, loving my trusted Shimano XT, but oh my, were they love at first feel! These brakes provide modulation forever and plenty of power for even the craziest DH sections. On top of that, the shape of the brake lever is perfect to ensure your fingers stay on in the most gnarly situations. I have these brakes on all my bikes and they are the first thing I swap when getting a new bike. Their biggest drawback is that they require proprietary caliper spacers to use bigger rotors than your frame or fork ship with.
One Up Components
One Up Components Composite Pedals
One Up Components does it again in the pedals department. Although I do prefer their aluminum pedals, I don't think they are worth the extra cash. Their composite pedals are light, durable, colorful, grippy, and most of all affordable. They are are also fully serviceable with rebuild kit readily available.
Ride Concepts
Shoes
Shoes are a very subjective and personal thing. I used to ride exclusively with 5.10 shoes (the Free Ride were my pair of choice), but when Adidas bought the brand, it seems something changed with the rubber and they were suddenly not as grippy. Well, Ride Concepts brought back the sticky to my soles and are now my brand of choice. I currently run the Tallac, but am looking forward to get on the TNT next.
MudHugger
EVO Bolt-on front fender
It's great that we can ride year long in the PNW, but it does get wet! To keep you shredding with a clean(-ish) face, the MudHugger bolt-on long fender is the solution. They bolt directly to your fork, and provide enough coverage to actually be effective even in the muddiest of situation. Give them a try, you wont regret it.