Ultralight

Zpacks 20-Degree Solo Quilt Review

Zpacks 20-Degree Solo Quilt Review

Over the last 5 years, I have spent over 500 nights camping in the backcountry during all four seasons. Yet before any of that, Zpacks was one of the first...

Dec 8, 2023 : Carl Stanfield
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad Review

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad Review

Therm-a-Rest has made some of the most popular sleeping pads for almost as long as anyone can remember. Their lineup covers the gamut, from super cushy car camping mattresses to...

Jul 10, 2023 : Carl Stanfield
Ten Days from the Beginning

Ten Days from the Beginning

I've repacked my backpack somewhere close to 50 times by now. Changed gear and went on smaller hikes to test it out. I've spent hours pouring over logistics and putting...

Apr 11, 2019 : Matt Robbins
Why You Should Take the Ultralight Plunge Right From the Start

Why You Should Take the Ultralight Plunge Right From the Start

Once you have committed to a thru-hike, or even just to backpacking as a hobby, it can be daunting to dive into the world of backpacking gear. I’m here to...

Mar 13, 2019 : Madeline Newel
The Nitty-Gritty of Gear Evolution on a Thru-Hike

The Nitty-Gritty of Gear Evolution on a Thru-Hike

About this time last year, I had just committed to my AT thru-hike, which meant that I was in the early research stages. Having never backpacked with less than 30-40...

Jan 24, 2019 : Carl Stanfield
Keepin’ It Light… or Ultralight?

Keepin’ It Light… or Ultralight?

Backpacking gear is one of those things that can take me into the depths of the internet, and I'll admit that lately I have become a little obsessed. Fortunately, this...

Sep 24, 2018 : Phoebe "Unicorn" Anderson
Dylan’s UL PCT 2018 Gear List

Dylan’s UL PCT 2018 Gear List

The weeks and months leading up to the start of any long-distance hike seem never-ending.  In an effort to feel connected or get some sort of accomplishment people will obsess...

Apr 16, 2018 : Dylan Tonkin
Ruck Review:  Getting Ready for a Long Distance Hike

Ruck Review: Getting Ready for a Long Distance Hike

When I was preparing to hike the Pacific Crest Trail last year, I was looking for any information that I could get. It was my first long distance hike and...

Mar 29, 2018 : Danielle OFarrell
Giggles’ Gear Modifications and Tips for a Thru-Hike That Starts Tomorrow or Is Still in Your Dreams

Giggles’ Gear Modifications and Tips for a Thru-Hike That Starts Tomorrow or Is Still in Your Dreams

Everyone has their own way of doing things on a thru-hike, whether it is how they attach their umbrella to their pack, when they take a break for dinner, or...

Mar 7, 2018 : Danielle OFarrell
One Piece of Gear You Never Knew You Needed

One Piece of Gear You Never Knew You Needed

Dental care in the backcountry seems relatively self-explanatory, right? If you said yes, you would be right. However, like any part of your gear list, there's always room for improvement....

Feb 7, 2018 : Zoë Symon