Gear Reviews

Mountainsmith Zerk 40 Backpack Review

Mountainsmith Zerk 40 Backpack Review

The Mountainsmith Zerk 40 is a multi-purpose backpack with vest-style shoulder straps that can be used for backpacking, thru-hiking, or long day hikes. I hesitate to call it a fast-pack because its utility extends far beyond that narrow style of use. Weighing …

Read More »

REI Co-Op Flash 3 Tent Review

REI Flash 3 Tent Review

The REI Flash 3 is a freestanding, double-wall 3-person tent that’s lightweight and compact enough for backpacking but spacious enough for car camping. While REI rates it for 3 people, I think it’s on the small size for three full-grown adults unless …

Read More »

NEMO Kayu 15 Sleeping Bag Review

NEMO Kayu 15 Sleeping Bag Review

The NEMO Kayu 15 is a down-insulated mummy sleeping bag designed for three-season backpacking and camping. Weighing 2 lbs 3 oz, the Kayu is not the lightest weight sleeping bag in its class, but it has several features that differentiate it from …

Read More »

Hiking Bug Suit

Hiking Clothing

Bug season can be unpleasant, but it’s no reason to give up hiking and backpacking. You just need to cover up with insect-proof clothing and wear bug dope. If you never hike when insects are active, you’re not going to get much …

Read More »

REI Flash Air 1 Tent Review

REI Flash Air 1 Tent Review

The REI Flash Air 1 Tent (new in 2023) is a single-wall ultralight pyramid-shaped tent with a deep bathtub floor and a large front vestibule. Weighing 27.2 oz / g, it’s an affordable ($299) ultralight trekking pole tent (optional pole included) designed …

Read More »

Mystery Ranch Coulee 40 Backpack Review

Mystery Ranch Coulee 40 Backpack Review

The Mystery Ranch Coulee 40 is a wonderfully versatile, comfortable, and bombproof backpack suitable for extended day hikes or 1-2 night backpacking trips with a streamlined gear list. If you’re unfamiliar with Mystery Ranch’s backpacks, let me preface this review by saying …

Read More »

Ultralight Backpacking on Etsy

Ultralight Backpacking on Etsy

If you’re looking for innovative new ideas and products for your hiking and backpacking habit, Etsy is a craft-oriented shopping site that hosts the shops of many up-and-coming ultralight backpack gear manufacturers. There are about 30-40 companies actively making backpacking gear today …

Read More »