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We use a simple and repeatable shower test method to evaluate backpack water resistance that incorporates fabrics, closures, seepage, and material water absorption.
Backpacking packs often ride on the coattails of their fabric specs. Whether it’s abrasion resistance, tear strength, or water resistance, the extent to which a finished product’s performance matches the specs of its fabrics depends on how the pack is designed and constructed. In this context, we use a simple shower test to assess the water resistance of backpacks, evaluating not only their fabrics but also their seams and closures.
Backpacking packs are not necessarily “waterproof.” Even when they use waterproof or highly water-resistant fabrics, water can still enter through seams, stitch holes, zippers, roll-top closures, hydration ports, drawcord collars, and strap anchors. In the field, during sustained heavy rain, a fabric may resist wetting very well, while the pack system as a whole still allows water to seep into the packbag.
Herein, I describe a simple shower-based method to evaluate practical water resistance in a backpack. The goal is not to reproduce every variable of a real storm. Wind, pack movement, body heat, abrasion, shoulder-strap water tracking, and long-duration saturation all influence real-world performance. Instead, this method provides a controlled, repeatable, and practical way to screen for water ingress under a short-duration, high-intensity exposure.
This test is intentionally simple. It uses a household shower, a packed backpack, and a large cotton pillowcase as the internal witness material.
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This method is designed to answer one practical question:
After a controlled 30-minute shower exposure, how much water enters the pack’s main compartment?
In addition, the test must provide the minimum viable conditions capable of differentiating the water resistance of different backpacks with materially different water-resistance behavior (fabrics, construction, etc.).
The method is not intended to certify a pack as waterproof. It is a comparative screening test that helps identify obvious or meaningful leakage through construction features such as seams, closures, zippers, and panel interfaces. Moreover, the method is best used as a screening tool to compare different backpacks, not as a predictor of water ingress in an actual rainstorm while the pack is being worn, placed on the ground, sat upon, and intermittently accessed.
Test Summary
The backpack is packed with a standard backpacking kit – sleeping bag and pad, shelter, poles, cook kit, extra clothing, accessories (e.g., first aid kit, toilet kit, water treatment kit), and enough food to bring the pack’s volume up to near its maximum capacity.
A cotton pillowcase large enough to line the entire pack is used as a witness (absorption) material. Inside the pillowcase is a waterproof pack liner (a 5-mil plastic trash compactor bag). All gear is packed inside the pack liner. The pack liner is then roll-topped and taped shut to eliminate water entry, and extra pillowcase fabric is folded over the top.
The pack is exposed to a cold shower oriented at a 70-degree angle to the pack. The water spraying onto the pack covers about 250 square inches at a rate of 1.5 gallons per minute, equivalent to a rainfall rate of about 80 inches per hour. The test runs for 30 minutes.
A packed backpack is leaned upright in the corner of the shower, the flow rate adjusted to about 1.5 gallons per minute, and aimed at the upper front edge of the pack (red arrow). The area of wetting is sufficiently large (yellow-shaded region), and the test duration is long enough (30 minutes) to keep all exterior surfaces of the pack wetted for nearly the entire test.
After the water is turned off, the pack is left undisturbed for another 30 minutes to allow delayed seepage and capillary migration to occur. The outside of the pack is towel-dried and carefully opened, at which time the gear and pack liner are removed, and the pillowcase is removed, inspected, and weighed. The empty pack is weighed and compared with its dry weight to assess the total amount of water absorbed by the pack’s materials.
Witness Material
The witness material for this test is a cotton pillowcase large enough to line the pack’s entire interior.
A cotton pillowcase works well because it is simple, inexpensive, absorbent, and easy to inspect visually for wetness.
The pillowcase is not intended to identify every leak source with laboratory precision. Its purpose is to reveal whether water entered the main compartment in a way that is visible, meaningful, and relevant to real backpacking use.
Dwell Period
After the 30-minute shower exposure, the water is turned off, the pack is left closed and undisturbed for 30 minutes.
This dwell period is important. Some water ingress occurs after active spray stops, as water migrates through seams, stitch holes, zipper tapes, binding, folded closures, and fabric interfaces. Opening the pack immediately may miss some delayed seepage.
Rating Categories
In addition to the water weight absorbed by the pillowcase, results are reported using the following qualitative categories:
Rating
Observation
No visible ingress
Pillowcase appears dry after exposure and dwell period.
Minor ingress
One or more small isolated wet spots are present, but no broad wetting or pooling is observed.
Moderate ingress
Multiple wet spots or a larger localized wet area is present. Water entry is meaningful but not catastrophic.
Significant ingress
Pillowcase shows broad wetting, saturation in one or more areas, or evidence of water pooling inside the pack.
Severe ingress
The pillowcase is extensively wet or saturated, indicating that the pack failed to protect the main compartment under the test conditions.
Interpretation
A pack that performs well in this test is not necessarily waterproof. However, if the witness pillowcase remains dry after 30 minutes of calibrated shower exposure and a 30-minute dwell period, that is meaningful evidence that the pack resists short-duration, high-intensity water ingress under controlled conditions.
A pack that wets the pillowcase during this test is not necessarily unsuitable for backpacking. Many packs are designed with the assumption that critical gear will be protected in a pack liner, dry bags, or waterproof stuff sacks. However, visible ingress helps identify the practical limitations of the pack’s water resistance and may influence how the pack should be used in wet environments subject to heavy, sustained precipitation or water immersion (e.g., packrafting).
Limitations
This method does not fully simulate field rain. It does not account for:
Wind-driven rain
Pack movement while hiking
Abrasion
Shoulder-strap and back-panel water tracking from the body
Long-duration storm exposure
Hydrostatic pressure from wearing the pack, sitting on it, or overloaded gear compression
Water entering during pack access
Repeated wet-dry cycles
Aging of coatings, seam tape, or waterproof laminates
Application Example
Three packs were tested, including one heavily used Robic nylon model (dry weight 29.6 oz, with noticeably degraded DWR), one new DCF hybrid model (33.4 oz), and one new EPX200 model (31.5 oz). Results are summarized in the table below. Each pack was tested three times, from a dry state, on three different days. Values represent the average of all three tests. Relative standard error (RSE) percentages were calculated for each test set. All tests resulted in RSE < 7.0%.
Model ID
Dominant Fabric
Sealed Seams?
Pack Age
Water Absorbed by Pillowcase
Water Absorbed by Pack Materials
Observations
Final Rating
1
200D Robic Nylon
no
300+ days / 7 years
27.1 ounces (150 g)
17.4 ounces (493 g)
Substantial UV (fading) and DWR (wetting) fabric degradation, peeling (hydrolyzed) PU coating on fabric interior; widespread water ingress; extensive water absorption by pack materials
Significant ingress (as a result of widespread fabric and seepage), water pooling at bottom of pack
2
150D DCF
yes
10 days / < 1 year
0.1 ounce (6 g)
2.9 ounces (82 g)
No visible water entry aside from a small spot at a < 1mm pinhole puncture; minimal water absorption by pack materials.
Minor ingress (related to a fabric defect)
3
200D EPX200
no
10 days / < 1 year
5.3 ounces (150 g)
8.0 ounces (227 g)
No obvious fabric failure, water ingress primarily through; moderate water absorption by pack materials.
Moderate ingress (no fabric failures observed, extensive seam seepage)
Summary
This protocol provides a simple, repeatable way to compare practical water resistance among backpacking packs while acknowledging that real storm performance depends on additional field variables.
Appendix: Water Costs
This test can be performed well enough with even less water. At a flow rate of 0.5 gpm (33% of the flow rate used in this test), that’s equivalent to more than 25 inches of rainfall. For the test described here, based on the author’s utility rates, the cost is about 75 cents per test (45 gallons billed at $16.96/1000 gal). Be mindful of your water usage and costs if you decide to perform this test at home or as part of a more comprehensive test series.
Our new test data reveals which hydrophobic and hydrophilic base layers are most effective at liquid water transfer, moving sweat away from your skin during high exertion.
Introduction
During hard exertion, the body can produce sweat faster than it can evaporate. Liquid sweat begins to collect on the skin, and clothing must move that water away from the body through one or more layers.
A few months ago, I evaluated three base-layer garments and found clear performance differences. But one key question remained unanswered:
Which fabrics are most effective at moving liquid sweat away from the skin and into the next layer?
To answer that question, I developed a test specifically designed to track liquid water as it moves through a simplified clothing system. The test measures how much water remains on the “skin,” how much is retained in the base layer, and how much reaches the layer above.
In other words, it answers a simple but previously unmeasured question:
When skin is wet, where does the water actually go?
Figure 1 shows the test device used in this study.
Figure 1: Liquid Transfer Test Device
As testing progressed, I expanded the scope from three fabrics to eight, representing a broader range of base-layer designs. With that expanded set, consistent patterns began to emerge.
The testing reveals several key patterns:
Hydrophobic fabrics require sufficient pressure to initiate liquid transfer through their pore structure
Pore structure strongly influences how effectively hydrophobic fabrics move liquid once transfer begins
Hydrophilic fabrics rapidly absorb liquid from the skin but do not necessarily release it easily. Transfer depends on sufficient driving forces – primarily the pressure between layers and the receiving layer’s ability to draw in water. As the receiving layer becomes wetter, that ability decreases, reducing transfer. This behavior contrasts with the common expectation that wicking fabrics continuously move moisture away from the skin.
Together, these behaviors help explain a common experience: two garments may both be marketed as “moisture managing,” yet behave very differently once sweat becomes liquid. Some continue to move water away from the skin, while others become saturated and uncomfortable.
This article focuses on understanding why that happens. By tracking liquid water as it moves – or fails to move – between layers, the testing provides a clearer picture of how base-layer fabrics behave under high-exertion conditions.
How to Read This Article:
This article does three things:
Introduces a new test method,
Explains the physics of hydrophobic vs hydrophilic behavior, and
Presents experimental results.
That is a lot, but you will learn a lot about how base layers function.
If you want a quick takeaway read:
How Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Fabrics Transfer Liquid Moisture
Case 1 Results
Conclusions
For a deeper understanding, read the full text. The appendices provide additional detail. Alternatively, read a section or two at a time and then come back to it. There is a lot here, but I think these tests raise the bar on our insights into how base layers work.
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Author’s Note:
The results and conclusions presented here apply to the eight fabrics tested in this study. I do not claim that these findings extend to all hydrophobic or hydrophilic base-layer fabrics. However, the observed behaviors are consistent with well-established physical principles described in the scientific literature, beginning with Young and Laplace (1805) and later formalized by Washburn (1921). These foundational studies describe the capillary physics that underpin modern understanding of liquid transport in fibrous materials.
How Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Fabrics Transfer Liquid Moisture
Hydrophobic fabrics can get wet, and they can transfer water effectively
Hydrophobic base layers are often described as “staying dry,” and in one narrow sense, that’s true – the fibers themselves do not attract or absorb water. But during hard exertion, many hikers have experienced something that seems to contradict this idea: hydrophobic layers can feel heavy, clammy, and very wet.
The reason is simple but often overlooked. Fabrics are mostly empty space. Even when the fibers repel water, liquid sweat can still collect inside those empty spaces. In other words, a hydrophobic garment can hold a surprising amount of liquid water without the fibers ever becoming “wet.”
Figure 2 shows this clearly. After high-intensity activity in cold conditions, large amounts of liquid water can be seen within two hydrophobic garments. In the infrared images, darker blue regions indicate areas of high water content. Despite being made from hydrophobic fibers, both garments contain substantial amounts of trapped liquid sweat. The Brynje mesh shirt (right) retained 87 g of sweat (65% of its dry weight), while the Alpha Direct shirt trapped 62 g (55% of dry weight).
Figure 2: IR Images of Water Retention in Hydrophobic base layers
Whether a hydrophobic garment stays relatively dry or becomes saturated depends on a simple balance: how fast liquid sweat enters the fabric versus how quickly it can move through and out. If liquid water passes through the fabric as fast as it arrives, little accumulates. If transfer is slower than incoming sweat, liquid gradually fills the pore spaces, and the garment becomes increasingly wet – even though the fibers remain hydrophobic. In that condition, the fabric may feel clammy, heavy, and provide reduced insulation.
In my testing, hydrophobic fabrics do not absorb water through capillary action. That distinction is important. Capillary-driven uptake occurs when fibers attract water molecules to their hydrogen bonding sites. True hydrophobic fibers lack these bonding sites and therefore cannot generally pull water into the fabric on their own.
Instead, hydrophobic fabrics require external pressure to force liquid water into their pore structure. If available pressures are too low, a hydrophobic fabric can act like a water barrier. As pressure increases, that same fabric may suddenly begin to pass water through.
There is a minimum pressure required to force water into the pores of a hydrophobic fabric. The classic work of Laplace and Washburn, cited above, describes how this pressure can be calculated for a single capillary. I’ll refer to this threshold as the breakthrough pressure.
In real use, this pressure can come from many sources: compression from outer layers or pack straps, movement of the body against clothing, tension in tight-fitting garments, friction between layers, or simply the weight of accumulating liquid sweat. Sliding, stretching, and rubbing can generate brief, localized pressures that momentarily force water into pore openings. Until that pressure threshold is reached, water may remain pooled on the skin.
What determines how much pressure is required? According to Laplace and Washburn (cited above), breakthrough pressure depends largely on two factors: the size of the pore opening and the contact angle between water and the fiber surface. There are other factors that influence breakthrough pressure in a fabric, but, as we shall see, our calculations based on pore-opening size and estimated contact angle correlate well with actual fabric performance.
My testing confirmed that the largest pore openings corresponded to reduced breakthrough pressure. Smaller openings require more pressure to force water through them. At the same time, my testing showed that the breakthrough pressure increased with a higher contact angle.
What is Contact Angle?
Contact angle is a measure of a fiber’s resistance to water. It is measured by how a water droplet sits on a fabric surface. When a water drop deposited on a fabric surface spreads out to form a flattened drop, the surface is hydrophilic and supports capillary wicking. When a water drop beads up into a tall dome, the surface is hydrophobic and resists wetting. Contact angles below about 90° show hydrophilic behavior, while angles above 90° indicate hydrophobic or water-repellent behavior. Many hydrophobic base layers fall in the range of roughly 95° to 115°, whereas strongly hydrophilic materials may exhibit very low angles, approaching zero.
Pore Size and Pathways
It is important to note that apparent pore size alone (measured under the microscope) does not determine how easily liquid passes through. The actual pathways inside a textile are three-dimensional and often constricted where yarns cross or partially block pathways. As a result, fabrics that look very open can still resist breakthrough, while others with smaller visible openings may allow flow if their internal pathways are better connected.
This framework helps explain why hydrophobic base layers behaved so differently in the tests – and why they may behave differently in real use. One fabric may transfer sweat efficiently and feel relatively dry during intense activity, while another may allow sweat to accumulate on the skin or within the fabric, leading to discomfort – even though both are made from water-repellent fibers.
Key Takeaways:
1) Hydrophobic fabrics can become wet due to water stored in open pores.
2) In this test, hydrophobic fabrics do not transfer sweat until sufficient pressure forces water into their pore structure.
3) Both pore structure and fiber chemistry greatly influence the pressure required to initiate flow.
4) If water enters a hydrophobic base layer’s pores faster than it leaves, the fabric will retain water and become wet.
Hydrophilic Fabrics: Familiar Strengths, Important Limits
Hydrophilic base layers behave as most hikers already recognize. When liquid sweat appears, these fabrics absorb it immediately, pulling moisture off the skin and spreading it through the fiber and yarn structure by capillary action. This behavior – often described as “wicking” – is discussed in detail in earlier articles, Why Is My Wicking Layer Wet?and How Do Moisture-Wicking Fabrics Work? , which I won’t repeat here.
What matters for this article is a less intuitive point: the same capillary forces that make hydrophilic fabrics absorb sweat so readily also make them inclined to hold on to it.
In a hydrophilic fabric, liquid water is drawn into the pores and distributed through the fabric structure by capillary forces. Once absorbed, that water is not free to move unless another force acts on it. Transferring liquid water to the next layer, therefore, results in a competition between the base layer’s tendency to retain water and the receiving layer’s ability to draw it away.
When the receiving layer is dry, it can readily draw water from the base layer. But as the receiving layer accumulates moisture, its ability to pull additional water decreases. As a result, liquid transfer can slow dramatically – or stop altogether – even while the base layer remains wet.
I observed this behavior across all experiments conducted for this article. In two tests, the receiving layer water absorption capacity was reduced in different ways. In each case, less water was transferred from the hydrophilic base layer to the receiving layer. In these tests, the performance of hydrophobic fabrics was largely unchanged and exceeded that of the hydrophilic samples. In two other tests, the hydrophilic base layers simply transferred less water than the hydrophobic samples (with two hydrophobic exceptions). These results are explored in detail in the results section.
Development of my Water Transfer Test Device
Measuring Liquid Transfer Between Clothing Layers
A critical function of a base layer is to facilitate the transfer of liquid water from the skin to the next layer. However, conventional fabric tests have not been developed to assess how well base layers hand off liquid sweat once skin becomes wet. Existing tests typically focus on absorption, vertical wicking, or vapor transmission in singlelayers. None directly answers a simple question:
When skin is wet, where does the water actually go?
To address that gap, I developed a simple test designed specifically to measure liquid water transfer between clothing layers. The test tracks how a known quantity of liquid water is distributed after contact with a base layer and a receiving layer under controlled pressure.
The test measures three outcomes:
How much water remains on the “skin”?
How much is retained in the base layer?
How much is transferred to the receiving layer above?
The primary measure of success is the amount of water transferred to the receiving layer. However, the location of any untransferred water is also important, because water remaining on the skin and water trapped within the base layer have different implications for comfort and insulation.
The test is intentionally simplified to isolate liquid transfer between layers. It does not attempt to measure vapor transport or evaporation. It does not consider what happens when sweat remains primarily in vapor form. Instead, it focuses narrowly on what happens once sweat has already condensed into liquid and must be moved away from the skin.
Water Transfer Device Configuration and Use Description
A skin layer is attached to an acrylic plate. This is the bottom of the stack.
A measured water dose is applied to the skin layer.
The base layer is placed on the wet skin surface.
The Receiving layer is placed on the base layer.
A weighted acrylic platen is placed on the Receiving layer.
Prior to the test, I weigh the dry skin plate, the water-dosed skin plate, the base layer, and the Receiving layer. Measurements are recorded to .01 grams.
The test runs for two minutes.
At the conclusion of the test, I reweigh each layer.
I then calculate the water gain in the receiving layer, the base-layer water retention, and the water remaining on the skin layer.
The mark of success is the amount of water transferred to the receiving layer. But where the untransferred water remains has important implications for your comfort: whether water is in the base layer or on your skin. The test reveals all three outcomes.
Test Process Decisions
In developing the test, it was important to select suitable materials for the skin and receiving layers. I started with a hydrophilic skin material but found that it resisted releasing its water content, even when weighted. The pressure from the weighted platen could not overcome the capillary forces of the hydrophilic skin material. Using a hydrophilic skin is not appropriate because human skin is mildly hydrophobic, with a contact angle ranging from 70° to 100°. After testing several options, I ultimately chose a lightly textured hydrophobic film.
The skin layer approximates wet skin only in a narrow sense: it provides a mildly water-repellent, non-absorbing surface from which liquid water must be removed. It does not simulate sweat gland distribution, skin compliance, salt content, skin oils, hair, body heat, or continuous sweat production. Results should therefore be interpreted as a controlled liquid-transfer comparison, not a full physiological simulation of sweating skin.
The receiving layer consists of two-ply paper towels. At skin doses of 5 grams, I used a single layer of paper towel. For doses of 10 and 15 grams, I used two layers. A single layer of paper towel could hold over 15 grams of water. This choice allowed me to accommodate expected water doses without restriction.
The receiving layer is not intended to represent all possible outer layers. It functions as a standardized absorbent sink. Therefore, these results compare how each base-layer fabric transfers liquid water into this specific receiving medium under controlled pressure. Different receiving layers – especially hydrophobic, low-absorbency, lofted, or highly air-permeable layers – may produce different transfer rankings.
The pressure exerted by the body or clothes on a base layer is not well documented. There are some sources, such as compression clothing, but these exert too much pressure. For initial testing, I set the pressure to 0.3 kPa. I also tested at 0.1 kPa. I found similar results for both pressures. However, 0.1 kPa is probably a better value to use for future testing. It helps identify hydrophobic fabrics that don’t perform well at realistic pressures.
The applied pressures should be interpreted as controlled screening pressures rather than precise simulations of clothing pressure on the body. Real use likely involves lower average pressures combined with brief localized pressure spikes from movement, pack straps, garment tension, and body contact. These intermittent events may be especially important for hydrophobic fabrics because they can initiate breakthroughs.
The following photographs illustrate the device components and some use cases.
Figure 3: Test device components: .3 kPa platen, skin plate with applied hydrophobic material, and .1 kPa platen. The levels and cabinet knobs help ensure I apply uniform pressure to the stack when I lower the platen.
Figure 4: Test stages for a hydrophilic fabric. The left image shows 5 grams of water drops applied to the skin layer. The second image shows the base layer fabric set atop the water drops. We see that the drops were immediately absorbed. The third image shows the paper towel placed on the base layer, but no water is absorbed. The fourth image shows the .1 kPa platen placed on the stack. We see that the paper towel has absorbed water. By the end of the test, the water will have spread to cover nearly the entire paper towel.
Figure 5: Test stages for a hydrophobic fabric. The left image shows 5 grams of water drops applied to the skin layer. The second image shows the base-layer fabric afloat on the water drops. The third image shows the paper towel placed on the paper. No water is absorbed into the paper towel, since no water is flowing through the base layer yet. The fourth image shows the .1 kPa platen placed on the stack. We see that the paper towel has absorbed water that flowed through the base layer as soon as the platen was placed.
Test Limitations are discussed further in Appendix 1.
Fabrics Tested
I selected a total of eight fabrics for this project. Three were provided by Finetrack (as shirts). These are the latest versions of their Elemental Layer products: Cool, Basic, and Warm. Basic is the Elemental layer they have been selling for years. Cool and Warm are new products. These are thin, light, and highly hydrophobic products with differing pore openings. I added three hydrophobic base layers: Brynje Super Thermo, Gore Base Layer, and Helly Hansen Lifa 48300. I also included two hydrophilic base layer fabrics: Polartec PowerDry Silk Weight and Polartec Delta.
These materials vary in thickness, yarn geometry, pore openness, and fiber chemistry. Together, they provide a broad spectrum for evaluating the performance of thin, lightweight base layers.
Let’s first see what these fabrics look like. Figures 6 and 7 show photomicrographs of our eight fabrics. For a clearer view, I encourage you to zoom on the images.
Figure 7: Brynje Super Thermo, Gore Base, Lifa 48300 and Polartec Delta.
What clearly distinguishes these fabrics is the size of the openings they provide. We will see that large pores and large numbers of large pores will be critical for liquid transfer in hydrophobic base layers. You can simply look at these and get a good idea of which will be the star performers.
Baseline Fabric Properties
For my first analytical step, I undertook the standard test procedures that I have developed over time. I added some new measurements that I thought would shed light on liquid transfer performance. I then produced a Baseline Fabric Properties table that focused on liquid transfer performance. This data shows how the fabrics differ in key physical properties. As we will see, these properties hint at, but do not predict, liquid water transfer performance. We will get to that in the next section.
I present a short version of the Fabric Properties in Table 1 and then describe some relevant performance highlights. For data nerds, the complete Fabric Properties table and full comments are in Appendix 3.
Table 1: Key Fabric Properties
Fabric
Comments
Cool
Basic
Warm
Brynje
PowerDry
Gore
Lifa
Delta
Fabric Thickness (mm)
Thickness of fabric, .7kpa
0.381
0.584
0.66
1.68
0.64
0.61
0.81
0.91
Fiber Type
PET
PET
PET
PP
PET
PP
PP
PET/Lyo
Fabric Weight (gsm)
Calculated from sample area and weight
75
48
89
102
108
84
99
137
Yarn Diameter (μm)
Measured under microscope
115
252
189
300
179
193
301
173
Water Repellency (Drop Test)
Based on 50ul Water Drop Test for 60 seconds
Phobic
Phobic
Phobic
Phobic
Philic
Phobic
Phobic
Philic
Optical Porosity
Optical measure of void spaces penetrated by light
23.2
11.4
5
43.6
8.4
8
7
2.7
Air Permeability (CFM/ft2)
Measured on Air Permeability Tester at .5"wc
700
689
412
1602
391
311
378
189
Void Fraction (%)
Portion of fabric that is air rather than fiber
82
92
87
91
84
80
81
86
Thermal Resistance
Measured R-value of the fabric
0.011
0.03
0.028
0.074
0.027
N/A
N/A
N/A
Now, a brief discussion of key points.
Fabric Thickness
As noted in previous articles, the amount of moisture a fabric holds at saturation and the energy required to dry it increase with thickness. This trend generally applies to our samples, except for one fabric pair that switches the ranking of saturation water (Warm and Deltas). The thickest yarns are in Brynje, and they hold the most water and require the most energy to dry.
Yarn Diameter
This measurement can provide limited information about how much water may be trapped in yarns, with thicker yarns tending to trap more water. The thickest yarns are found in Brynje, which also traps the most water.
Water Repellency
This test shows whether the fabric is hydrophobic (phobic) or hydrophilic (philic).
Optical Porosity
This is measured under a microscope. Since I select two parameters to complete the measurement in Photoshop, the measurements are somewhat subjective. This measurement identifies direct paths through the fabric where light-and potentially liquid or vapor – can pass. It provides important insights into how easily water or vapor can transfer through a fabric. Of course, Brynje stands out from all other fabrics in this measurement. The new Cool fabric also shows very high porosity. This measurement is more important for hydrophobic fabrics. Hydrophilic fabrics don’t need large pore sizes to transfer liquid water.
Air Permeability
This is another measure that indicates how readily liquid water or vapor can move through a fabric, particularly a hydrophobic one. One must be cautious with this measurement. It is made under relatively high air pressure, which can distort the size of the fabric openings. Vapor and liquid transfer in a fabric may deviate from the data provided by the test results. In general, we expect fabrics with higher air permeability to have more and larger direct paths through the fabric. Again, this will be more important for hydrophobic fabrics than hydrophilic fabrics.
Void Fraction
I include this new measurement because I think people don’t appreciate how much air is in a fabric. In fact, a very small fraction of the volume of a fabric is fiber, and most of the volume is air. In this group of fibers, at best 19% of the volume is fiber, and the rest is air! The more air in a fabric, the greater its potential to trap insulating air- provided that air is not free to circulate. More trapped air means more warmth. Not surprisingly, Brynje has the highest Void Fraction and the highest R-value. Warm has the 2nd highest Void Fraction and the 2nd highest R-value.
Thermal resistance
The thermal resistance of a base layer is usually negligible compared to that of the additional layers worn in cold weather. I do not typically measure it, but I did so here because some manufacturers claim their base layers are better suited for cold conditions or provide greater warmth than other fabrics.
I measured five of the eight fabrics. A fabric called Warm piqued my curiosity. In fact, Warm’s R-value is less than Basic and doesn’t stand out among the five fabrics tested. However, it does have lower air permeability and porosity than the other Elemental layer products. This may reduce convection losses, but it may also reduce Moisture Vapor Transmission Rates.
Brynje produces an R-value more than twice that of the other fabrics. This result relies on a large amount of still air “trapped” between the thick yarns, but in real use, convection caused by pumping of the outer layers and pressure from the user’s body would likely reduce that trapped air. I believe that in actual use, Brynje’s R-value would be smaller than what I measured. There’s a reason insulating fabrics use complex fiber distributions to prevent air from circulating within the insulation during use.
So, based on these key property measures, which base layer fabrics will provide the best water transfer away from the skin, through the base layer, and into the Receiving layer?
The baseline measurements alone do not answer that question. The next section presents the results from the new test device. This is where we will find the answer.
Water Transfer Test Results
I present the test results using three graphs for each of three test cases. A fourth case is presented in six graphs. In each case, one parameter – skin dosing, receiving-layer dosing, receiver layer capacity, or platen pressure – is varied while the others are held constant.
I explain the graphs in detail for the first case and then summarize the key findings for each case.
Figure 8 presents the results for Case 1 using three graphs. The top graph shows water transferred to the receiving layer, which is the primary measure of success in this test. The higher the bar, the better the performance. Simple! The middle graph shows water retained in the base layer, and the bottom graph shows water remaining on the skin. Lower values in the middle and bottom graphs indicate better performance.
There are three iterations of this test, with 5, 10, and 15 grams of water added to the skin, as shown on the x-axis. Performance is compared by the relative bar heights within each dosing level.
Water transferred to the receiving layer-Best and Worst Performance
The top graph shows that the relative performance of the fabrics changes little with increasing water dose. This indicates that, once liquid transfer is established, higher sweat rates can be accommodated provided the clothing system has sufficient capacity to move water through its layers. We can easily see the best and worst performers.
Across all dosing levels, Basic and Gore consistently transfer the most water to the receiving layer, followed closely by Cool. At the 10-gram dose, Basic and Cool are essentially tied. These fabrics show the most effective liquid transfer under the conditions tested.
At the opposite extreme, Warm transfers almost no water to the receiving layer across all doses. The bottom graph shows why: nearly all of the water remains on the skin. Liquid water does not penetrate Warm’s pore structure at the applied pressure, indicating a high breakthrough pressure.
What accounts for Warm’s high breakthrough pressure? Small pore sizes. The Laplace-Washburn formula, described earlier, explains how breakthrough pressure depends on pore size and contact angle. The formula illustrates that, at contact angles below 90°, capillary pressure draws water into the fabric. Above 90°, water is repelled from fabric capillaries and does not enter the fabric by means of capillary force.
Using the Young-Laplace formula, I calculated the breakthrough pressure for each of our hydrophobic fabrics. If readers are interested, the calculated breakthrough pressures are shown in Appendix 2. The calculated results correlate well with the test results, except for Brynje, which will be discussed below.
The contact angles for the hydrophobic fabrics appear similar, except for the Lifa fabric, which, from our Appendix 2 calculations, is slightly lower. Thus, we can simply examine the pore size of each hydrophobic fabric and infer which fabric has the highest breakthrough pressure.
You can easily do this. Go back to Figure 6. The right-most image is Warm. Zoom in as far as you can and look at the large pores in Warm. They are considerably smaller than all of the other hydrophobic fabrics. But their performance is even worse than it might appear. If you look closely at any of the large pores in Warm, you can see that they are subdivided by intersecting yarns. Thus, instead of one large pore, they behave like three or four much smaller pores. In my opinion, those yarns are the primary reason that Warm fails to transfer water from the skin in the test.
Middling Water Transfer Performers
Let’s examine two other lower performers in the Receiving Layer graph: the hydrophilic fabrics PowerDry and Delta. These two fabrics underperform compared to the hydrophobic fabrics, except Warm. Where is the water? If we look at the bottom graph, we don’t see any PowerDry (purple) or Delta (teal). That indicates they removed almost all water from the Skin Layer.
Now, let’s look at the middle graph: Fabric Water Retention. Here, the two hydrophilic fabrics retain more water than the other fabrics.
Why don’t these hydrophilic fabrics give up their water to the receiving layer?
In How Do Moisture Wicking Fabrics Work?, I described how capillary structure influences liquid movement. Tighter fiber spacing creates smaller diameter capillaries that generate higher capillary pressure and can move water farther. Larger diameter capillaries can hold more water but exert less capillary force. This is classical wicking behavior described by Washburn, cited above.
When two hydrophilic layers are in contact, both large and small pores are present at the interface. The larger pores in the base layer hold water less strongly and are drained first by the receiving layer. These can be thought of as “low-hanging fruit.”
As transfer continues, the remaining water is held in progressively smaller capillaries within the base layer, where capillary forces are higher. At that point, further transfer requires the receiving layer to exert a stronger capillary pull. As the receiving layer becomes wet, its ability to do this decreases. Eventually, the capillary forces in the two layers reach a balance, and transfer stops – even though water remains in the base layer.
Why does PowerDry consistently transfer more water than Delta? Two factors likely contribute:
Pore structure and connectivity: PowerDry has relatively high optical porosity, meaning it has large, open pathways through the fabric. Water in these larger pores is held less strongly by the base layer and can be transferred more easily by the receiving layer. Delta has much lower optical porosity, with smaller pores and fewer unobstructed pathways. Water is held more strongly, and some of it may reside in poorly connected areas that do not readily drain into the receiving layer.
Thickness and path length: PowerDry is approximately 0.61 mm thick, while Delta is about 0.91 mm thick. The greater thickness of Delta increases the distance water must travel and provides more internal volume for storage, making it more difficult for the receiving layer to draw water all the way through the fabric.
We will see more of this effect in the cases that follow and also discuss its implications for real-world water transfer between wicking layers.
Special Case: Brynje
Brynje always comes in fourth on the Receiving layer chart. Brynje has two ways to pass water. If liquid water floods the large pores, water can contact the Receiving layer directly, thereby transporting large amounts of water. If the water does not overrun the large pores, it must travel through the thick yarns; this is a less efficient means of transfer. So, where is the water that did not transfer into the Receiving layer? We can see it in the middle chart: Fabric Water Retention. In every dosing case, the fourth-highest bar is Brynje. Part of the water is stuck in the yarns. This is a hydrophobic fabric, so the capillary balancing act we described above does not apply here. But I think some of the same issues are present: some pathways within the yarns are larger and require less water pressure to move large volumes of water through. Others are smaller or restricted and require more pressure than is available to produce water flows. So, water remains trapped in the yarns.
In this case, I wanted to assess the fabrics’ performance at lower pressure to see how it compares with the test results we have already seen. The results are shown in the next set of graphs:
Each graph has two panes: the left is the results we saw for the 5-gram dose at 0.31 kPa. The right pane shows the results for the same test at a pressure of 0.10 kPa.
In the Receiving layer graph, the results for the two cases are nearly identical, except for Lifa. At 0.10 kPa, only 0.055 grams of water are transferred to the Receiving Layer. Most of the water remains on the Skin Layer, with the remainder in the fabric. The exact mechanism for this is unclear. But the results say the breakthrough pressure is between 0.10 kPa and 0.31 kPa. Appendix 2 provides a calculated value of .27 kPa, consistent with the test results. The actual value is probably somewhat lower.
Key Takeaway: Future testing should be conducted at .10 kPa to better identify hydrophobic fabrics unlikely to transfer sweat.
Case 3: Case 3 Decreased Receiver Layer Capacity by Water Dosing
This test examines how reduced receiving layer water impacts water transfer performance. In this case, water capacity is reduced by adding increasing water doses to the receiving layer while holding skin dose and platen pressure constant.
In the receiving layer, the results are clear: For Basic, the hydrophobic fabric, water transfer is unaffected by the receiving layer water dosing level. Nearly the entire skin water dose is transferred. At sufficiently high dosing levels, transfer would likely decrease. I did not push the test that far.
In contrast, PowerDry, the hydrophilic fabric, shows a strong dependence on the water content of the receiving layer. Transfer occurs at 0 grams, decreases at 5 grams, and is effectively eliminated at 10 and 15 grams.
Where did the water go? In the Water Retention graph, we see that retention in the base layer increases from the 0-gram dose to the 5-gram dose and then stabilizes for the 10- and 15-gram doses. We see a modest increase in residual water on the skin layer as doses increase.
Key takeaway: As the receiving layer becomes wetter, its ability to draw additional liquid decreases. A point is reached where the Receiving layer can no longer overcome the capillary forces within the hydrophilic base layer, and transfer effectively stops. In contrast, the hydrophobic fabric remains largely unaffected over this range.
This test examines how reduced receiving layer capacity impacts water transfer performance. Receiver capacity was reduced by separating a 2-ply sheet and using a single ply. Capacity is reduced by 50% compared with Case 3 and 75% compared with the 10 gram skin dose of Case 1.
With reduced receiving layer capacity, water retention in the hydrophilic base layers increases substantially.
The transfer performance of the hydrophobic fabrics Basic and Cool is unchanged. Transfer performance for hydrophobic fabrics Brynje and Gore, showed modest changes. Brynje transfer increased by 1.5 grams while Gore decreased by a similar amount. The reason for the changes in these two fabrics is unclear.
Key takeaway: Reducing receiving layer capacity limits its ability to accept additional liquid, resulting in increased water retention in hydrophilic base layers. This effect is consistent across Cases 1, 3, and 4. In contrast, hydrophobic fabric performance was largely unchanged.
Conclusion
Which Fabrics Transfer The Most Water away from the skin? Here is a simple ranking under Cases 1 and 2.
Fabric
Comments
Cool
Basic
Warm
Brynje
PowerDry
Gore
Lifa
Delta
Water Transfer Ranking
Ranking @ .3kPa, 1 is best
2
1
8
4
7
3
5
6
Water Transfer Ranking
Ranking @ .1kPa, 1 is best
1
3
8
4
5
2
7
6
Here is a brief review of what we have learned in this research:
Hydrophobic Fabrics
These fabrics can become wet by storing water within their structure.
These fabrics require some pressure to initiate and maintain water transfer from the skin, through the base layer, and into the receiving layer.
The pore structure strongly influences their ability to transport water.
Hydrophilic Fabrics
These fabrics can readily absorb water through contact with wet skin.
These fabrics may require some pressure to transfer water from the base layer to a hydrophilic receiving layer.
The exchange of water between hydrophilic layers is not constant, but changes as water accumulates in the receiving layer. The drier the receiving layer, the more strongly it pulls water from the base layer. As it becomes wetter, that pull weakens. Eventually, the driving force for transfer decreases until little or no additional water moves between them.
This work represents an initial effort to quantify how layered clothing systems transfer liquid water. Future work will expand on these findings and further explore how fabric structure and layering affect real-world performance. I look forward to your questions as we refine this testing approach.
Appendix 1: Test Limitations
In its current configuration, the liquid transfer device has a limited scope: it measures liquid transfer between a base layer and a receiving layer. Direct analogs applied to both hydrophobic and hydrophilic base layers appear to be absent from the textile research literature.
In practical layering systems, we select garments that allow sweat to move away from the skin and ultimately evaporate to the environment, which serves as the final “sink.” This test does not replicate the full pathway from skin to environment.
The current configuration ends with a receiving layer that serves as a simplified sink for liquid water. Future work will explore alternative sink materials, including hydrophobic receiving layers, and will extend testing to lower pressures and to different fabric combinations.
Another area for further study is the behavior of highly compressible fabrics. Fuzzy or lofted materials may undergo significant structural changes under load, potentially altering liquid transport behavior relative to in-use conditions.
Appendix 2: Laplace/Washburn Calculations
The capillary entry pressure can be estimated using the Laplace relationship:
\[
P_s = \frac{2\gamma}{r}\cos\theta
\]
Where:
Ps=Breakthrough Pressure
γ = surface tension of water (approximately .0728 N/m) r = radius of the capillary, or in this case, a large pore
cosθ = Cosine of the contact angle of the fiber surface.
A contact angle less than 90° produces a positive value of cos cos θ, resulting in capillary suction. A contact angle greater than 90° produces a negative value, indicating resistance to liquid entry.
To calculate the capillary radius, I measured the area of typical large pores under the microscope and then calculated the equivalent radius that would produce that area.
Here are the results:
Fabric
Pore Type
Contact Angle (deg)
Area (µm^2)
Throat Diameter (µm)
Equivalent Diameter (µm)
Entry Pressure (kPa)
Cool
Apparent
110
495878
795
0.13
Basic
Apparent
110
430022
740
0.13
Warm
Apparent
110
277534
594
0.17
Warm
Throat mid
110
104.21
0.96
Gore
Apparent
110
450000
757
0.13
Brynje
Apparent
110
11260000
3786
0.03
Lifa
Apparent
100
27603
187
0.27
Notes:
Two results are shown for Warm. The first uses the total area of a large pore. Using the full pore area predicts penetration at 0.31 kPa, although no penetration is observed at that pressure. The second recalculates using the area of a smaller subpore formed by three yarns crossing the large pore. Using the area of a typical subpore reproduces the behavior observed in the water transfer test.
Initially, contact angles of 110o were assumed for all fabrics. Similar contact angles were used for most fabrics, with a lower value for Lifa to match observed behavior: penetration occurs at 0.31 kPa but not at 0.10 kPa. The calculated value of 0.27 kPa aligns with this observation.
Appendix 3: Complete Baseline Fabric Properties
Fabric
Comments
Cool
Basic
Warm
Brynje
PowerDry
Gore
Lifa
Delta
Fabric Thickness (mm)
Thickness of fabric, .7kpa
0.381
0.584
0.66
1.68
0.64
0.61
0.81
0.91
Fiber Type
PET
PET
PET
PP
PET
PP
PP
PET/Lyo
Fabric Weight (gsm)
Calculated from sample area and weight
75
48
89
102
108
84
99
137
Yarn Diameter (μm)
Measured under microscope
115
252
189
300
179
193
301
173
Water Repellency (Drop Test)
Based on 50ul Water Drop Test for 60 seconds
Phobic
Phobic
Phobic
Phobic
Philic
Phobic
Phobic
Philic
Yarn Twist (qualitative)
Observed under microscope
None
Loose
None
None
None
None
None
None
Optical Porosity
Optical measure of void spaces penetrated by light
23.2
11.4
5
43.6
8.4
8
7
2.7
Air Permeability (CFM/ft2)
Measured on Air Permeability Tester at .5"wc
700
689
412
1602
391
311
378
189
Saturation Water/Dry Weight (%)
Ratio of Saturation Water to Dry Sample Weight
152
453
306
428
234
282
318
357
Water removed by wringing (%)
Water removed from the saturated sample by a firm squeeze
20
35
31
40
25
29
29
37
Void Fraction (%)
Portion of fabric that is air rather than fiber
82
92
87
91
84
80
81
86
Water Filled Void Fraction (%)
Portion of void that contains water at saturation
39
48
53
33
51
50
50
69
Air Void at Saturation (%)
Void Fraction-Water Filled Void Fraction
43
45
34
58
33
30
31
16
SaturationDrying Energy (wh/g)
The energy in watt hours needed to dry 1 gram of water
0.96
0.98
1.01
1.05
0.97
NA
NA
NA
Saturation Drying Rate (g/min)
The average speed of drying 1 gram of water
0.87
0.98
1
0.86
1.15
NA
NA
NA
Whole Shirt Drying Energy (wh)
The amount of energy you must supply to dry a saturated shirt.
141
214
303
552
324
NA
NA
NA
Thermal Resistance
Measured R-value of the fabric
0.011
0.03
0.028
0.074
0.027
NA
NA
NA
Water Transfer Ranking
Ranking @ .3kPa, 1 is best
2
1
8
4
7
3
5
6
Water Transfer Ranking
Ranking @ .1kPa, 1 is best
1
3
8
4
5
2
7
6
Description:
PET=Polyester; PP=Polypropylene, Lyo=lyocell
Water Repellency: Phobic=hydrophobic, Philic=hydrophilic
Fabric Thickness
As noted in previous articles, the amount of moisture a fabric can retain and the energy required to dry a saturated garment increase with thickness. This trend generally holds for this sample, except for one fabric pair that reverses the ranking of saturation water (Warm and Deltas). The thickest yarns are in Brynje, and they hold the most water and require the most energy to dry.
Yarn Diameter
This measurement can provide limited information about how much water may be trapped in yarns, with fatter yarns tending to trap more water. The thickest yarns are found in Brynje, which also traps the most water.
Water Repellency
This test establishes whether the fabric is hydrophobic (phobic) or hydrophilic (philic). The results establish broad expectations for fabric performance.
Yarn Twist
This is a qualitative observation under the microscope. Less twist can mean higher yarn porosity, which can increase the amount of liquid held in the fabric. All but one fabric have no yarn twist. Finetrack Basic has very loose yarns that may increase its ability to hold moisture.
Saturation Water/Dry Fabric Weight (%)
This shows which fabrics, as a % of dry weight, can hold the most water. We can see that Basic has the highest water saturation content. This may be due to its very loose yarns. Brynje is not far behind with its very fat yarns. This test shows a fabric’s ability to hold water. This does not mean a fabric will ever hold that much water in normal use (short of falling into a steam). We will show that it appears to be a factor in our liquid transfer tests.
Water Removed by Wringing (%)
A colleague’s unpublished research on saturation indicates that the water remaining after hand-wringing a fabric is a more reliable indicator of how much water might be trapped in a fabric during use. This makes sense because wringing should remove surface and unbound water, which may drip more readily from a garment when worn.
Void Fraction
I include this new measurement because I think people don’t appreciate how much air is in a fabric. In fact, a very small fraction of a fabric’s volume is fiber, and most of the volume is air. In this group of fibers, at best 19% of the volume is fiber, and the rest is air! The more air in a fabric, the greater its potential to trap insulating air, provided that air is not free to circulate. More trapped air means more warmth. Not surprisingly, Brynje has the highest Void Fraction and the highest R-value. Warm has the 2nd highest Void Fraction and the 2nd highest R-value.
Water-Filled Void Fraction
This measure indicates the fraction of fabric volume filled with water at saturation. You may ask, “Why is Brynje so low?” The answer is that at saturation, water is confined to the yarns. It does not fill the large mesh voids.
Air Void at Saturation
If you take the total fabric volume, subtract the fiber volume and the saturation water volume, you are left with the void space that may be available for vapor or liquid transfer through the fabric. Of course, Brynje wins this by a wide margin. For most fabrics, you don’t know how torturous the path is that connects these air voids. The more tortuous, the less likely it is to support water or vapor transfer.
Saturation Drying Energy, Saturation Drying Rate
These align with what we expect from my prior drying articles. It typically requires about 1 wh/g to dry moisture from the fabrics, with small variations. Water typically dries at a rate of about 1 g/minute, with greater variation depending on fabric thickness or other structural characteristics.
Thermal resistance
The thermal resistance of a base layer is usually negligible compared to that of the additional layers worn in cold weather. I do not typically measure it, but I did so here because some manufacturers claim their base layers are better suited for cold conditions or provide greater warmth than other fabrics.
I measured five of the eight fabrics. A fabric called Warm piqued my curiosity. In fact, Warm’s R-value is less than Basic and doesn’t stand out among the five fabrics tested. However, it does have lower air permeability and porosity than the other Elemental layer products. This may reduce convection losses, but it may also reduce Moisture Vapor Transmission Rates.
Brynje produces an R-value more than twice that of the other fabrics. This result relies on a large amount of still air “trapped” between the thick yarns, but in real use, convection caused by pumping of the outer layers and pressure from the user’s body would likely reduce that trapped air. I believe that in actual use, Brynje’s R-value would be smaller than what I measured. There’s a reason insulating fabrics use complex fiber distributions to prevent air from circulating within the insulation during use.
So, based on these key property measures, which base layer fabrics will provide the best water transfer away from the skin, through the base layer, and into the Receiving layer?
MVTR
This measurement is not made. I assume that the MVTR of these fabrics is generally adequate to remove moderate amounts of vapor and that the greater barriers to vapor removal will be in the subsequent layers through which it must pass.
Avoid thermoregulatory debt by learning how delayed layering decisions in cold, wet, or windy conditions lead to moisture, heat, and performance debt. Timing is key.
Brynje of Norway makes both synthetic and merino wool fiber fishnet base layer apparel for outdoor adventures. Fishnet construction is more breathable, lighter, and faster-drying than conventional knits.
Thermoregulatory debt as a field model for delayed physiological cost in cold, wet, and windy conditions.
Why clothing decisions made during movement can create problems that appear later during rest, descent, exposure, or camp chores.
The credit-card debt analogy: small, convenient decisions can compound into larger future costs.
Why thermoregulatory problems often begin before they feel like problems.
The three phases of thermoregulatory debt: decision, physiological imbalance, and delayed discomfort or impairment.
The three types of thermoregulatory debt: moisture debt, heat debt, and performance debt.
Moisture debt as the accumulation of sweat, precipitation, or condensation in a clothing system.
How moisture migrates through layers and reduces the effectiveness of a layering system.
Why wet clothing increases conductive and evaporative heat loss.
Heat debt as a loss of thermoregulatory balance when the body loses heat faster than it can replace it.
How conduction, convection, radiation, and evaporation contribute to heat loss in the backcountry.
Why heat debt becomes harder to reverse once clothing is wet, hands are cold, energy is low, or shivering begins.
Performance debt as the loss of dexterity, motor function, mobility, and cognitive performance.
How cold hands, cold feet, and reduced mental acuity interfere with basic backcountry tasks.
Why layering strategy must include timing, not just garment selection.
Practical interventions: vent early, change layers before urgency, protect insulation, eat before energy deficits deepen, and reassess during changes in movement, terrain, exposure, and weather.
Falling trees pose a fatal risk to backpackers, especially when camping. Learn to identify hazard trees and choose a safe campsite by scanning the fall zone.
Introduction
In 1996, while hiking through a wildfire burn area north of Yellowstone’s northern boundary, a summer thunderstorm began swirling around us, its winds toppling trees in the distance as we hiked a remote, unmaintained route. As we hiked, a loud crack rang in our eardrums, and a large, burned lodgepole crashed less than 20 feet behind me – and less than 20 feet in front of my hiking partner. It was a jarring, terrifying experience.
Searching for a safe camp, Yellowstone, 2002.
In 1988, wildfires burned nearly 1.4 million acres in Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding ecosystem, leaving behind standing matchstick forests – and dead trees – for decades.
Since then, I’ve experienced dead trees toppling in the wind throughout the mountain west, whether hiking in a storm or camping in the backcountry. The feeling of fear never leaves you when you’ve been close enough to a falling tree that could have killed you.
Falling trees are not among the most common causes of death in the backcountry. They do not occupy the same risk category as drowning, falls from cliffs, hypothermia, heat illness, lightning, avalanches, or cardiac events. Many of us have slept under trees hundreds of times without incident. That familiarity can breed complacency, dulling our awareness of one of the few hazards that’s all around us, all the time, that can have fatal consequences even when we’re doing everything else right.
In August 2022, a visitor at Olympic National Park’s remote Elk Lake wilderness campsite was killed when a tree fell on his occupied tent (August 2022). The National Park Service reached the site by helicopter the next morning. In the White Mountain National Forest, a backpacker sleeping in a hammock was killed when the tree attached to his hammock fell and struck him (May 2021). On the Colorado Trail, a backpacker was killed when a tree fell onto her tent (August 2019). On the Pacific Crest Trail, a thru-hiker was killed by a falling tree while moving along the trail (August 2019). More recently, hikers have been killed or seriously injured by falling trees or branches on popular trails, including maintained routes in national parks and national forests.
These incidents are uncommon, but they occur often enough to be more than figments of our imagination when hiking through dead-tree forests. They occur in wilderness campsites, long-distance trail corridors, dispersed camping areas, developed campgrounds, river camps, hammock sites, and on trails frequented by day hikers. Tree failure is a low-frequency, high-consequence hazard, and backpackers seem to be most exposed when they stop beneath trees for extended periods. That’s certainly when I’m most aware of the risk – especially in the wind.
We don’t commonly ask ourselves, “Are trees dangerous?” Instead, consider this question: “Am I about to spend the next several hours near trees or limbs that could fall?”
In this article, we explore the causes of hazard trees and how to identify them, how to assess their risk in various environmental scenarios and contexts, and how to manage that risk while hiking and camping.
Table of Contents • Note: if this is a members-only article, some sections may only be available to Premium or Unlimited Members.
Panther Creek Falls, Cohutta Wilderness, Chattahoochee National Forest, Georgia, USA
Remote wilderness campsite; four men sleeping in hammocks
One camper killed and one injured when a large tree fell directly onto a hammock campsite; access took over five hours and helicopter extraction was used.
Lena Lake Trail, Olympic National Forest, Washington, USA
Hiking on a popular trail
Kathryn Pickard, 76, and Christine Mutchler, 70, killed when a large dead evergreen broke near the ground and fell onto the trail; third hiker survived.
North Depot Lake area, Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada
Remote backcountry camping
A 13-year-old boy seriously injured when a tree fell on his tent during severe storms; mother used SOS device; responders cut through debris and paddled in.
A hazard tree is a tree with a structural defect that increases the likelihood of failure (breakage). Failure can mean the entire tree falls, the top breaks off, or a large dead limb drops. It can mean a root plate lifts out of its soil anchor. Or it can mean a burned trunk snaps, a rotten stem gives way, or a large branch already broken and just hung up in the canopy finally falls through to the ground.
We often use the term “widowmaker” for dead or hanging limbs above camp. The hazard is not just the obvious dead branch directly overhead – it’s the entire radius in which a tree, top, or limb could land if it fails.
The problem is not always easy to solve when we arrive at a campsite that’s less than perfect. A good site for our shelter may be flat but located under snags. A safer site may be lumpy, exposed, or farther from water. A meadow edge may be free of falling trees but more vulnerable to wind. A durable site may have been used for years precisely because it sits in the sheltered lee of a stand of trees, some of which are now dead.
In many modern forests, hazardous campsites are a common scenario. Wildfire, drought, insect outbreaks, disease, aging stands, wind events, and saturated soils all change the stability of trees. In western forests, beetle-kill and fire-killed trees can remain standing for years before they begin falling in large numbers. In eastern forests, saturated soils, disease, wind, and broadleaf limb failure can create the same hazard. In river corridors, undercut banks and flood-destabilized soils can compromise root anchors. In alpine and subalpine environments, shallow soils and wind exposure can limit root anchoring. In burned forests, a tree that looks solid may have actually lost structural integrity at the root collar as its roots die and decay.
The result is a campsite-selection problem that is not adequately captured by the traditional good-camp checklist of “flat ground, water nearby, wind protection, and a nice view.”
Wildfire remnants, Wyoming.
Backpacking and Hazard Trees
We yearn for a simple, passive existence in the backcountry: walk through forests, stop for breaks, and sleep in the peaceful embrace of the trees.
At any point during our journey, we may spend only seconds or minutes beneath any single tree. A backpacker sleeping in a tent or hammock may spend eight hours under a small canopy of a few trees.
These don’t feel like long exposure times, but we’re also vulnerable because we’re asleep. We can’t stay up all night with one eye open, watching the canopy. We also can’t respond quickly enough to a cracking trunk or a changing wind pattern. We may be inside a tent with limited visibility. Or we may be wearing earplugs, tucked inside a hood, or just trying to shut out the stormy weather from our consciousness.
Hammock users may be more vulnerable. A tent camper can (in theory) pitch in an open patch away from tree trunks. A hammock camper must choose anchor trees. Those trees are not just part of the environment; they are part of their sleep system! They support body weight through suspension lines that apply lateral force. A dead, leaning, fire-damaged, cracked, rotten, or root-compromised tree should never be used as an anchor. But even when the anchor trees are healthy, other trees and branches within the fall zone can still reach the hammock.
Lodgepoles, Yellowstone.
Why Trees Fail
Tree failure is mechanical failure. The tree, or part of the tree, can no longer resist the forces acting on it.
Gravity is constant. Wind adds dynamic loading. Snow and ice add weight to branches and crowns. Rain can saturate soils and weaken root anchoring. Freeze-thaw cycles can expand cracks. Fire can damage roots, trunks, and the cambium. Insects and disease can reduce structural strength. Fungal decay can hollow stems from the inside while leaving the exterior deceptively intact. A tree may look alive and still have a compromised root system. A dead tree may stand for years and then fall during a calm morning when gravity finally takes over.
Several mechanisms of tree failure are worth reviewing:
Whole-tree failure. The entire tree falls, usually from root failure, trunk breakage, or loss of structural support. This is the scenario most people imagine when they think about camping near a dead tree.
Top failure. The upper portion of a tree breaks out and falls. This can happen in dead or living trees, especially where the top has been weakened by decay, fire, insects, or prior storm damage.
Branch failure. Large limbs can fall from dead or live trees. In some species, heavy lateral branches can fail without the whole tree falling. Dead limbs can remain suspended for long periods before dropping.
Root-plate failure. Saturated soils, shallow roots, erosion, or undercut banks can allow the root system to rotate out of the ground. This can happen during or after storms.
Fire-damaged failure. Fire may burn roots, hollow the base, weaken the trunk, or kill the tree. Burned trees may remain standing, giving an illusion of stability, while their support structure degrades.
Domino effects. One falling tree can strike another, dislodge a hung-up branch, or redirect its force. Dense stands of dead trees are especially difficult to evaluate because the hazard is not just one tree, but a system of compromised trees.
Misjudging the Hazards
Hazard-tree risk is hard to evaluate because field observations are incomplete. We can see obvious defects: dead tops, missing bark, broken limbs, fire scars, fungal conks, exposed roots, leaning trees, and cracks. But we cannot reliably see internal decay, root rot, subsurface fire damage, or how wind will interact with a tree overnight.
The absence of visible warning signs does not mean the absence of risk – just that the risk is not obvious.
This is important to realize because we often make campsite decisions late in the day, under fatigue, and in fading light. We are inclined to accept the first flat site that meets our comfort needs. We may tell ourselves that a dead tree has been standing for years, so one more night is unlikely to matter. That may be true. It may not. The tree does not know you are there for only one night!
We also tend to overweigh familiarity. Forests feel benign because most nights under trees are uneventful. But uneventful exposure does not prove the exposure was safe. It only proves that nothing failed during that interval.
Field Awareness for Backcountry Users
Hazard-tree awareness starts before you pitch your shelter.
The first step is really simple:
Pause and look up!
Many backpackers evaluate campsites from the ground up: Is it flat? Is it dry? Is there water nearby? Is the surface durable? Is it protected from wind? Those questions are reasonable, but they should not come before evaluating the overhead hazard. A site that is comfortable but inside the fall zone of a dead snag is not a good campsite.
Heavy snow adds weight to trees and is a common fall trigger. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado.
Scan the Fall Zone
Before committing to a site, scan a radius at least as wide as the height of nearby trees (tip: it’s bigger than you think). If a tree could reach the tent or hammock if it fell, it belongs in your evaluation. If a top could break out and reach the site, it belongs in your evaluation. If a limb could fall directly into the sleep area, it belongs in your evaluation.
Don’t just inspect the tree that’s directly above the shelter pitch. Look around the perimeter. Look upslope. Look at trees leaning toward the site. Look for dead trees just outside the obvious clearing. Look for large branches lodged in other branches. Look for trees that could fall into your anchor trees or suspension lines.
A conservative fall-zone rule is simple: if a questionable tree can hit you, don’t sleep there.
Tree-Level Red Flags
The most useful field indicators include:
dead standing trees;
trees leaning toward camp;
broken tops;
hanging branches;
large dead limbs;
missing bark;
cracks, splits, seams, or cavities in the trunk;
fungal conks or obvious decay;
fire scars or charred bases;
exposed, burned, or lifting roots;
soil cracks around the base;
heavy insect activity;
carpenter ants;
woodpecker holes;
dead limbs lodged in the crown;
recent limb fall on the ground;
multiple downed trees nearby;
trees with root systems undercut by water or erosion.
Sometimes, visible defects like these offer clues into the health (and hazards) of the forest around you.
Stand-Level Red Flags
Sometimes the hazard is not a single tree, but the entire copse or stand.
Be more cautious in:
recent burn areas;
older burns where dead trees have begun to fall;
beetle-kill forests;
drought-stressed forests;
dense snag patches;
areas with many recently fallen trees;
wind-exposed ridges;
narrow drainages with saturated soils;
river corridors with eroded banks;
forests after heavy snow, ice, or wind events;
areas where trail crews have recently cleared many blowdowns (this may be a signal that maintenance has been performed in an unhealthy area).
Weather and Soil Conditions
Weather changes the risk calculus.
Wind increases dynamic loading – gusts cause breakage more than steady winds because dynamic loading is what contributes to structural fatigue that eventually leads to structural failure. Be aware of this in an area frequented by thunderstorms.
Heavy wet snow or ice increases the load on branches and crowns. Rain can saturate soil, reducing root stability. Spring thaw can destabilize shallow root systems. Strong winds after fire, drought, or insect mortality can bring down trees en masse that have been standing for years.
Conditions that should elevate caution include:
forecasted high winds;
gusty evening or overnight storms;
thunderstorm outflow;
heavy rain;
saturated ground;
heavy wet snow;
ice accumulation;
recent fire;
recent windthrow;
audible cracking or snapping;
branches falling nearby.
If the weather changes after camp is established, reassess. If branches begin falling, move. If you hear cracking, snapping, or root movement, leave the area immediately. Sometimes there will be no warnings at all before all hell breaks loose, which is why site selection matters before you crawl into the shelter.
While off-trail in the Bob Marshall Wilderness in the mid-2000s, fatigue forced us to camp in a wildfire-burned tree stand. The night started out calm, so we accepted the risk. A few hours later, thunderstorms rolled through, and trees suddenly started falling around us. We packed up at 2 am and kept walking until we found a dense, healthy forest as the sun was rising. We spent a miserable, wet second half of the night in that forest, but we were safe from falling tree hazards. That night, more than 20 years ago, was the last night I camped in a wildfire burn area.
I missed that one because I arrived at camp after dark. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado.
Summary
We can’t eliminate tree-fall risk. Forests are dynamic systems, and tree failure is not always predictable. Most nights under trees will be uneventful. Most hikes through forests will pass without incident. That reality should keep the risk in perspective.
But don’t let this perspective lead to complacency.
Campsite selection is one of the few moments when a backpacker can meaningfully reduce exposure to falling trees and branches. The decision costs little: look up, scan the fall zone, reject obvious hazards, start looking earlier in compromised forests, and accept a less comfortable site when the safer site is outside the reach of suspect trees.
A good campsite is not just flat, scenic, sheltered, or close to water. A good campsite is one where the forest above and around you is healthy.
In modern forests shaped by fire, drought, insects, disease, wind, and age, overhead hazard deserves the same level of attention as water, weather, terrain, and durable surfaces.
Documents show benefit changes, financial pressure, and unresolved legal questions. They also show how little members can verify from public statements alone.
The product category of inflatable sleeping pads is trending towards larger, warmer, and more comfortable pads – with very little weight penalty. This market report surveys available products and provides use case guidance, context tips, and feedback heuristics for optimizing comfort.
Changelog:
May 19, 2026 – Added new pads from Rab, Sea to Summit, removed deprecated models by REI and others, revised recommendations on self-inflating pads based on market availability.
September 4, 2025 – Revised updated info about Sea to Summit XR vs. XT pads in light of XT series being sunsetted.
August 29, 2025 – Added updated information about the new Sea to Summit XR series pads. Added an Appendix that focuses on use cases, tips, and tricks for optimizing inflatable pad performance. Revised and expanded the article introduction.
May 18, 2025 – Added detailed technical information about stability and baffle architecture. Updated products to reflect current market trends.
November 24, 2024 – Updated to include market research about sleeping pad performance vs. weight and value (see the new section “State of the Market: Inflatable Air Pads” below.
August 27, 2024 – Introduction revised and expanded to include more accurate historical context; current model season pad specs and features updated; additional pads discussed, including modern closed-cell foam and inflatable pads with reflective insulation; budget section added; pad inflation device section expanded to reflect new products on the market.
Introduction
Comfort on an inflatable sleeping pad is not a number on a spec sheet – it is the output of a few variables you can control: inflation pressure, pad geometry (width, thickness, and baffle architecture), system integration with closed-cell foam or a bivy, and the skin-to-pad interface. In this article, comfort is treated as a set of measurable outcomes that can be optimized in the field, including pressure distribution at the shoulder and hip, lateral stability during position changes, thermal efficiency across the torso, and acoustic behavior at the fabric surface. The goal is not to inflate a pad until it “feels right,” but to hit objective targets that match your body, posture, shelter, and conditions.
You will see why width and edge stiffness influence roll‑off, how thickness interacts with inflation to affect bounce and bottom‑out, when a two-pad system improves both warmth and stability, and why slightly narrower pads often work better inside a bivy sack. Practical guidance includes inflation heuristics with deflection targets by sleep position, fast diagnostics you can run on the ground, and realistic expectations for pressure loss as evening temperatures drop.
Use this market report to select a high-performing starting point, then apply the Appendix protocol to tune your pad(s) for your specific use cases and contexts. If you standardize a few steps – select a geometry that fits your frame, set inflation to a measurable deflection, add foam or a textile layer when indicated, and match the pillow loft to the pad thickness – you will increase stability, reduce pressure points, and improve sleep continuity.
This market report identifies key products from a comprehensive specification analysis of more than 300 sleeping pads from 20+ brands across the US and Europe. Our database was updated in May 2026 and includes the most recent manufacturer-reported specifications for weight, dimensions, R-value, and materials. In addition, every pad featured or recommended in this market report has been tested in the field by Backpacking Light.
Table of Contents • Note: if this is a members-only article, some sections may only be available to Premium or Unlimited Members.
My first sleeping mat was blue and made of cross-linked polyolefin. It weighed about half a pound (a quarter kilo) and cost $6. I purchased it from a military supply store using my allowance when I was 9 years old when I was getting ready for a Cub Scout sleepaway camp. I never had to repair it, because it was made with closed-cell foam – there was nothing to break.
A lot has changed since the advent of the blue, cross-linked polyolefin closed-cell foam pad of the 1960s, but they are still around today.
The sleeping pad I used on my last backpacking trip weighs nearly three times as much, costs nearly forty times as much, and requires that I carry a patch kit (which I’ve used on nearly every inflatable pad I’ve ever owned).
Few pieces of gear can be contrasted as much as the sleeping pad I used when I was a child vs. the sleeping pad I use today. Very little (and at the same time, a lot) has changed during this 45-year journey.
That ultralight blue foam pad represented (for me) the state of the art in backpacking sleeping mats. Even now, you can buy one at a discount big box retailer for less than fifteen bucks. They still weigh about half a pound.
Now, we have closed-cell foams that absorb less water, are a little more durable, and are slightly warmer. An example is cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE). XLPE 50 (i.e., 50 milligrams of weight per cubic centimeter of volume) is used in pads made by MEC. Lighter, less durable options include XLPE 30 (used in the Gossamer Gear Thinlight) and XLPE 20 (used in the Yamatomichi Minimalist).
The Gossamer Gear Thinlight Foam Pad is a closed-cell foam pad available in 1/8" thickness, with an estimated R-value of 0.5. Use it for protection and additional insulation from cold ground when paired with an inflatable pad, or keep it handy for on-trail and in-camp lounging.
Today, the most iconic closed-cell sleeping pad among long-distance hikers is the Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite. It’s puncture-proof – the Achilles’ heel of modern-day ultralight inflatable sleeping pads for backpacking. It’s a bit light on comfort and warmth, and it’s heavy and bulky for the little bit of warmth and comfort it does provide. However, if you’re a long-distance hiker on a budget, tough enough to sleep on a hard bed, and just want to throw your pad down on the ground without worrying about cactus spines and spruce needles, then the Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite may be your match made in heaven.
Another option – the Nemo Switchback. Like the Z-Lite, it’s an accordion-style folding pad, but offers slightly more thickness, and a hexagonal cell pattern that nests to a slightly more compact size. There are minor variants in R-value and comfort between the two, but in general, these performance characteristics will be indistinguishable to most users.
The Nemo Switchback offers more thickness (0.87 in) than both the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol (0.75 in) and Exped FlexMat (0.7 in) in a dual-density foam and hexagonal cell nesting pattern. It folds more compactly than the Z Lite and provides better insulation (R-value 2.0) than the FlexMat (R-value 1.5). Among closed-cell foam pads, the Switchback is perhaps the most refined and versatile design.
I slept on a foam pad well into my late 20s but started experimenting with an inflatable sleeping pad that I purchased second-hand at a Seattle Mountaineers garage sale – a 1970s vintage Therm-a-Rest (a self-inflating open-cell foam-filled pad with durable fabric outer). It was about an inch thick, weighed a pound and a half, and failed many times under my ownership – both seam failures and fabric punctures.
The original Therm-a-Rest, 1973. Photo: Cascade Designs
Seams have been more durably welded, and fabric puncture resistance-to-weight ratio has improved, but the overall design hasn’t changed in the past three decades. The Sea to Summit Pursuit defines the current state-of-the-art in this pad category and the Therm-a-Rest Trail Prolite incorporates lighter fabrics and more thickness to boost comfort and warmth a little.
And then, in the early 2000s, we saved weight in the most obvious way: we just made smaller pads.
Blast from the past: a vintage (ca. 2007) Backpacking Light TorsoLite self-inflating pad – a 9-ounce (255 g) wonder!
Evolution of the inflatable sleeping pad: leaving foam behind
As you can see from the table above, each of these styles of pads suffers from the following limitations:
low comfort (thickness)-to-weight ratio
low warmth (R-value)-to-weight ratio
However, in 2009, Therm-a-Rest introduced the first ultralight, uninsulated, non-self-inflating mattress to the backpacking market, the NeoAir. It was 3 inches (7.6 cm) thick, had an R-value of 2.5, and weighed only 14 ounces (397 g) in a 20 x 72 inch (51 x 183) cm mummy-shaped form factor. Although its weight was unremarkable (it weighed the same as the Z-Lite), its comfort-to-weight ratio certainly exceeded anything else on the market by a long shot.
The design characteristics of the NeoAir mattress that distinguished it from the Prolite mattress were the insulation, mode of inflation, and thickness. NeoAir mattresses were not insulated; they required manual inflation with your mouth or a bellows-style pump sack, and they were thick. That thickness translates to comfort, and it’s this feature alone that has resulted in their growing popularity over the past 15 years.
Since then, non-self-inflating mattresses have become the dominant product category within the overall backpacking sleeping pad market. NEMO, REI, Sea-to-Summit, Big Agnes, Zenbivy, Exped, and Klymit each offer several products within this category.
Some are insulated, some are not. Some are rectangular, others are mummy-shaped. Some are narrow (20 inches / 51 cm wide), some are wide (25 inches / 64 cm or wider). Some are short (down to about 47 inches / 119 cm), some are long (up to about 77 inches / 196 cm). Some are light (as light as 8 ounces / 227 g), some are heavy (as heavy as 40 ounces / 1,130 g). Some are quiet, others are noisy. Some are durable, others are fragile. Some are more stable, others are more wobbly.
I’ve used regular-length, wide-width pads for the past 6 years or so. In spite of the additional airspace that could contribute to a little more convective cooling than with a narrow pad (an effect that’s difficult to notice in most conditions), the additional stability and sleep position options are well worth the added weight for me.
This product category, now comprised of dozens of different pads, has become commodified in the past five years or so, and the differences between many of the brands are a bit subtle.
However, two manufacturers – NEMO and Therm-a-Rest – have become market share leaders. The reason for this is two-fold:
They have invested research and development resources into making these pads warmer using reflective surfaces and baffles (i.e., no foam or other high-loft fill materials).
The quality of their construction and fabrics is relatively high. They tend to be fairly reliable in terms of seam integrity and fabric puncture resistance.
They were the first companies to introduce regular length (72 inches / 183 cm), wide (25 inches / 64 cm) pads.
It is this latter feature – the “regular-wide” pad – that has probably changed my sleep comfort more than anything else in recent years. A wide pad is both more stable while sleeping or changing positions, and more comfortable because it provides a platform for resting your arms at your side (back sleeping), or for splaying your arms and legs into more comfortable, natural sleeping positions (side sleeping).
Having slept on more than 25 pads over the past three years, five pads stand out. Two are made by NEMO, two by Therm-a-Rest, and one is from a relatively small brand – Zenbivy. All of them represent each brand’s state-of-the-art models introduced in the past year.
The following table identifies the pads and compares their specifications for regular-wide size options:
Table: High R-Value Sleeping Pads
The following table outlines five sleeping pads worth considering if you're in the market for a high-R-value pad. Therm-a-Rest and NEMO are the market leaders. The Tensor and NXT series represent the market's current state-of-the-art in ultralight sleeping pad insulation combined with durable, lightweight fabrics. The Zenbivy Flex Air is unique for its soft, stretchy fabric surface, and is probably the most comfortable high-R-value pad to lay on with bare skin. Weights are reported to the nearest ounce for RW sized pads, so R/Weight ratios can be fairly compared.
Shape
Dimensions
Thickness
Weight
R-Value
R/Weight (oz)
NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad
rectangular
72 x 25 inches (183 x 64 cm)
3.5 inches (8.9 cm)
19 oz (539 g)
5.4
0.28
NEMO Tensor Extreme Conditions Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad
rectangular
72 x 25 inches (183 x 64 cm)
3.5 inches (8.9 cm)
22 oz (624 g)
8.5
0.39
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT Sleeping Pad
mummy
72 x 25 inches (183 x 64 cm)
3.0 inches (7.6 cm)
20 oz (567 g)
7.3
0.37
Rab Ultrasphere 5 Sleep Mat
mummy
72 x 25 inches (183 x 64 cm)
3.5 inches (8.9 cm)
16 oz (454 g)
5.5
0.34
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad
mummy
72 x 25 inches (183 x 64 cm)
3.0 inches (7.6 cm)
16 oz (454 g)
4.5
0.28
Zenbivy Flex Air Mattress
mummy
72 x 25 inches (183 x 64 cm)
3.0 inches (7.6 cm)
24 oz (680 g)
4.8
0.20
State of the Market: Inflatable Air Pads
One of our big projects right now is investigating the performance (ground comfort and warmth) of sleeping pads. The following chart shows a plot of the top 100 or so pads on the market.
The x-axis (Performance Index) = comfort and warmth per ounce of product. The y-axis (Value Index) = comfort and warmth per dollar of product cost.
In terms of raw performance, the Nemo Tensor Extreme line scores the highest. They offer more performance per ounce than any other pad on the market.
Although they’re expensive, the Nemo Tensor Extreme line provides solid value, dollar for dollar, when compared to other pads. The only product line that scores higher in terms of the raw performance you get per dollar is the Exped Ultra 7R.
If we manipulate the Value Index a little bit, though, and replace the comfort+warmth per dollar of product cost with the comfort+warmth:weight per dollar of product cost, the Big Agnes Rapide SL line floats to the top of the Value chart:
That means the Big Agnes Rapide SL provides the cheapest path towards optimizing your warmth:weight ratio – i.e., it offers the most “bang” for your “buck”.
In short, pads from any of these three product lines will reward you with high performance for their weight, and a lot of value.
Stability: Baffle Architecture
Stability is a term that is poorly understood and communicated by both users and outdoor gear reviewers. In its simplest terms, stability defines the ability of a pad to maintain its geometry in response to both user weight and movement. Stability is governed predominantly by baffle architecture, and it’s the primary predictor of user comfort, including warmth distrubiton, body stability, noise, and how well the pad supports different sleeping positions.
Let’s take a deeper look at the four primary baffle architectures used in today’s pads: horizontal, vertical, air-sprung cells, and 3D welds.
Four primary baffle types (L to R): horizontal (Thermarest Neoair NXT XLite), vertical (Exped 1R), air-sprung cells (Sea to Summit Ether Light XT/XR), and 3D welded (Nemo Tensor All-Season Ultralight).
1. Horizontal Baffles
Horizontal baffles run side to side, across the width of the pad. This style uses continuous air chambers that span the full width, creating a gently contoured surface.
Performance Effects:
Stability: Offers moderate lateral support – more than vertical baffles, but less than air-sprung cells or zoned designs.
Cradling: Gently dips the sleeper into the middle of pad, which some find comforting, especially for back sleepers.
Thermal Efficiency: Often paired with reflective layers and thermal baffle structures (e.g., triangular cross-sections) to restrict air movement and improve R-values.
Caveats:
Can feel bouncy or springy under shifting weight.
Heavier users may experience center sag if not fully inflated.
2. Vertical Baffles
Vertical baffles run the length of the pad, head to toe. They offer a consistent surface structure that aligns with the body’s longitudinal axis.
Performance Effects:
Support Consistency: Provides a firm and stable feel, especially good for tall people or those who rotate a lot at night.
Edge Stability: Usually poor, but can be enhanced by oversized outer baffles (“rails”), which help keep the user centered on the pad.
Warmth Distribution: Efficient for convective control along the body, but less effective at preventing lateral heat loss compared to more complex baffle architectures.
Caveats:
Can cause a “barrel roll” effect if side baffles are not oversized.
May feel too rigid or flat for some sleepers, particularly on uneven ground or for side sleepers needing more hip/shoulder contouring.
3. Air-Sprung Cells
Comprised of a matrix of individual air cells created via dot welds. These chambers mimic a pocket-sprung mattress, where each cell can compress independently.
Performance Effects:
Pressure Distribution: Good conformity to body contours – ideal for side sleepers or users with bony contact points.
Stability: High. Movement in one area is isolated from others, reducing ripple effects across the pad.
Caveats:
Slightly heavier and bulkier due to a greater number of welds and internal structure.
May feel firmer overall, especially when inflated to high pressures.
4. 3D Welds
Uses traditional horizontal baffles modified with strategically placed internal welds to suspend insulation and control chamber depth. 3D welding also allows for more variation in baffle geometry and insulation thickness by zone (shoulders, hips, legs).
Performance Effects:
Bottom-Out Resistance: 3D welds add internal tension, reducing the risk of hips or shoulders compressing the pad to the ground.
Zoned Comfort: Provides targeted cushioning and warmth where it’s needed most.
Caveats:
Less conforming than air-sprung cells – comfort depends more on baffle depth and pad thickness.
Zoned padding can feel inconsistent to some sleepers who shift positions frequently.
Recommendations
Comfort: stability, warmth, and noise
In field use, my personal preference leans towards the three pads from NEMO – the Tensor Elite, Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated and the Tensor Extreme Conditions Ultralight Insulated. They are quieter and more stable than Therma-a-Rest NXT pads. And while I do think the Therm-a-Rest XTherm NXT is warmer than the NEMO Tensor Extreme Conditions (see below), I find the Tensor Extreme to be sufficiently warm for sleeping on snow in any 3-season condition, and more than warm enough when paired with a Gossamer Gear Thinlight underneath it for mid-winter camping in the Colorado and Wyoming Rockies.
In 2025, I’ve been experimenting more with Sea to Summit XR and XR Pro pads (which replace the old XT series). They are stable and I appreciate the slightly wider width for bivy sack use (the standard width pads are about 22 inches wide) – small enough so as not to constrict me inside a bivy sack but wide enough to provide a bit more comfort without having to go to a “wide” (25-inch) pad.
The NEMO Tensor Extreme Conditions Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad is a 1-person insulated air pad with Apex baffle construction, 4 floating Thermal Mirror film layers, 20-denier nylon top, 40-denier nylon bottom, 3.5 in. thickness, 8.5 R-value, Laylow valve, and 1 lb. 2 oz. Regular weight.
The NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad is a 1-person insulated air pad with Spaceframe baffles, two suspended Thermal Mirror film layers, 20-denier nylon top, 40-denier nylon bottom, 3.5 in. thickness, 5.4 R-value, Laylow valve, and 14.1 oz. minimum weight.
The NEMO Tensor Elite Mummy Sleeping Pad is an insulated mummy air pad with Apex baffle construction, 10D Cordura nylon ripstop fabric, single-layer Thermal Mirror film insulation, 3 in. thickness, 2.4 R-value, Laylow valve, and 8.5 oz / 240 g Regular Mummy minimum weight.
The Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated ASC Sleeping Pad is an insulated air pad with Air Sprung Cell construction, ThermalCore insulation with a suspended TRM reflective layer, 10 cm thickness, 4.1 R-value, XPRESS valve, integrated pump sack, and 470 g Regular weight.
Sea to Summit XT vs. XR: The XT series pads are being sunsetted in 2025, and replaced by the XR series. XR pads are slightly warmer (R-value of 4.1 vs. 3.2). Standard (not Pro) pads now offer ThermalCore insulation. XR pads have improved weld strength (manufacturer claim, not tested) and a slightly smaller packed size.
Maximum warmth-to-weight ratio
If you value pure warmth (as the primary measure of performance) for the weight, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT is the new gold standard for warmth-to-weight ratio in inflatable sleeping pads (because of differences in baffle and insulation design, and based on our not-yet-published thermal kettle tests). Considering that it’s a true four-season pad that weighs only 20 ounces (567 g) in a regular-wide size (with a mummy shape), that’s quite a feat. Those who find the horizontal baffling of Therm-a-Rest NeoAir-style pads comfortable can enjoy a few less ounces over the NEMO Tensor Extreme. The only caveat: NXT pads are little noisy (crinkling sound) when moving around on the pad. Tent mates, beware! Almost as warm, and a bit lighter – see the new (post 2026) version of the Rab Ultrasphere pad. It’s the lightest high-R-value pad on the market today, with more stable baffles than NeoAir designs.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT is a 1-person mummy air sleeping pad with Triangular Core Matrix construction, ThermaCapture insulation, 3 in. thickness, 4.5 R-value, WingLock valve, multiple size options, and a listed Regular weight of 13 oz.
Inflatable tapered mummy sleep mat with offset air chambers, two layers of heat-reflective TILT, 20D fabric, an R-value of 5.5, 7.1 x 3.5 in (18 x 9 cm) packed size, and a 12.2 oz (345 g) listed weight.
Finally, there’s one more pad that’s somewhat unique and worth keeping an eye on – the Zenbivy Flex Air Mattress. It’s fairly warm (R-4.8) and fairly light in a regular-wide size (24 ounces / 680 g). Its unique feature, however, is its stretchy top fabric. While it sounds a little strange to put stretch-fabric on a sleeping pad, you may change your mind after lying on top of it. It’s quiet, soft, and the stretch keeps it from wobbling around a bit less when you move around on the pad. The effects are subtle and not earth-shattering, but they are noticeable and may contribute to additional comfort for you.
The lightest premium inflatable pads with the highest R-values and lowest weights approach price tags nearing $300.
With an MSRP of $169 (and a sale price of less than $120 during Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Holiday sales), the REI Helix Insulated Pad strikes a good balance between cost, weight, thickness, stability, quietness, and insulative value.
Similar in warmth (R-4.9) to the Therm-a-Rest XLite NXT (R-4.5), but a more affordable option. The interior baffle design makes this pad impressively stable. Reasonably quiet, reasonably light, and reasonably durable - a very solid budget option with "wide" options in both regular and long lengths for additional comfort.
I’ve purchased, used to failure, dissected, and inspected more than a dozen other pads in the same weight class as the Helix, purchased primarily from white-label brands selling products through online marketplaces (including Amazon, Alibaba, and Temu). These pads ranged in price from $15 to $85. I’ve yet to discover any that meet reasonable quality standards for welded seam consistency, puncture resistance, or fabric QC uniformity. There are marked differences in both material and manufacturing quality between these products and those manufactured by Cascade Designs, NEMO, REI, Big Agnes, Exped, or Sea to Summit. Buyer beware.
Pumps and Pump Sacks
Inflatable sleeping pads have spawned a market for inflation pumps and pump sacks. Most inflatable mattresses include an inflation bag (“pump sack”) that works as follows:
Attach the bag to the pad’s inflation valve (using the bag’s built-in adapter).
Fill the bag with air.
Roll the bag opening over to seal it, and expel the air into the pad like a bellows.
Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the pad is filled.
Remove the bag from the pad and top off with a few breaths.
An inflation bag can be filled with air in one of two ways:
A Bernoulli effect – where you lightly blow air into a narrow opening of the sack, and Bernoulli forces draw additional air inside.
A scoop effect – where you scoop the inflation bag’s large opening through the air or point it into the wind to fill it up.
Some of us try to take advantage of multiple-use inflation bags, by using them as pack liners or stow bags for other gear. Narrow-mouth bags don’t work well for this, but wide-opening (“dry-bag style”) inflation bags do. One of the most popular options in our community is the Exped Schnozzel.
The Exped Schnozzel Pumpbag UL works like a bellows, delivering air into your inflatable sleeping pad. It also doubles as a waterproof roll-top stuff sack and a pack liner.
Usually, an inflation bag can fill a sleeping pad with air with about 4 to 6 bag fills (less for a larger bag like the Schnozzel, more for a smaller bag like those shipped with Zenbivy pads).
However, if you still think that’s too much effort, or you otherwise don’t want to fuss with an inflation bag or use it as a multi-use item, then there are tiny battery-operated and USB-rechargeable pumps available. Most of them weigh less than 5 ounces (142 g), and most of them (especially those available from mega-online-retailers) are junk. I’ve purchased several to test, and they often lack quality construction, water resistance, battery life, and pumping power. Several have failed in the field after only a few days of use.
The Alpenblow Micro Inflator is an ultralight, 8-gram (0.28 oz) device that inflates sleeping pads in approximately three minutes, drawing minimal power (18 mAh at 5V) from USB-C devices such as smartphones or power banks. Operating at a noise level of 42 dBA, it includes multiple nozzles compatible with Therm-a-Rest (WingLock), NEMO (Laylow), Big Agnes, Sea-to-Summit, and EXPED sleeping pad valves.
If you are looking for a lightweight, quality pump that has good power, long battery life, a fast recharge time, and is durable enough for sustained outdoor use, consider the Flextail Zero Pump.
Save your breath, and leave the bulk of an inflation bag at home. One of the few pumps that actually works well and is still very light, with a decent battery life. You'll get 15 to 25 mattress inflations on a single charge if you use a full-sized mattress.
The Nitecore NB Air features a 5,000mAh Li-ion battery with 19.4Wh capacity, delivering 18W max power via USB-C with two-way PD/QC 3.0 support. Its IPX7 waterproof rating ensures reliability in outdoor conditions, while the carbon fiber construction provides durability with minimal weight at 89g.
The Nitecore NB10000 Gen 3 Power Bank provides 10,000mAh of high-capacity, lightweight portable power with fast USB-C charging, designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable energy for devices during extended trips in the backcountry. Its slim profile and durable construction offer efficient power management in rugged environments.
Appendix: Optimizing Inflatable Pad Comfort: Inflation, Geometry, and System Integration
This brief provides a practical, evidence‑informed approach to increasing comfort on inflatable sleeping pads. You will tune inflation, select geometry that matches your body and sleep style, integrate closed cell foam when indicated, manage fit in a bivy sack, and control the skin–pad interface. Each recommendation is actionable in the field with minimal gear.
Control inflation with intent
Method:
Inflate to firm using a pump sack or inflation pump and top off by mouth to be as firm as possible.
Lie in your habitual sleep position.
Use the valve’s micro‑bleed to release air in 1 to 2 second increments, reassessing after each bleed.
Targets by sleeper type:
Back sleeping benefits from slightly higher internal pressure. Aim for approximately 10 to 15% deflection of pad thickness under the pelvis and mid‑thoracic spine.
Side sleeping benefits from additional conformance at the shoulder and greater trochanter. Aim for 15 to 25% deflection without bottoming out.
Heuristic for common thicknesses:
2.5 in pad: back sleeping 0.25 to 0.4 in deflection, side slepping 0.4 to 0.6 in.
3.0 to 3.5 in pad: back 0.3 to 0.5 in, side 0.5 to 0.9 in.
Diagnostics you can run quickly:
Elbow press test. Supine, press an elbow into the pad. Easy ground contact indicates underinflation. No substantial depression indicates overinflation.
Hip clearance test. Side‑lying, rock your upper knee forward 2 to 3 in. Pelvis rotation that pulls the lumbar spine into flexion suggests the pad is too soft.
Edge roll test. Roll toward the edge. Perceived lateral collapse or sliding suggests adding a short burst of air or using a pad with raised edge rails.
Temperature effect on pressure:
Pad pressure falls as ambient temperature drops. For a constant volume approximation, pressure scales with absolute temperature. A decrease from 25 °C to 5 °C results in approximately a 6 to 7% pressure reduction. Expect to add one short top‑off after dark.
Match pad geometry to your body and movement pattern
Width:
20 in is efficient, light, and bivy‑friendly but can reduce arm and knee support for back and restless sleepers.
25 in improves shoulder and knee support for most adults, may be cramped in some ultralight tents, especially 2-person tents where both occupants are using 25+ inch wide pads.
30 in can aid very broad frames or high night‑time movement, at a modest weight penalty and footprint penalty inside small shelters.
Length:
Torso length pads are viable when supplemented with foam under calves and heels.
Full length pads simplify thermal management and alignment in cold conditions.
Thickness:
Greater thickness increases vertical compliance but can feel bouncy at high inflation. Pair thicker pads with deliberate micro‑bleeds to keep deflection within the targets above.
Baffle architecture:
Horizontal baffles can produce a mild cradle. Versions with taller outer rails increase lateral stability.
Vertical baffles distribute load along the body axis and can feel flatter under the spine.
Box baffles or air-sprung cells often present a more uniform surface than I‑beam channels during position changes.
Prioritize two properties you can perceive immediately: a uniform support surface under the torso and adequate edge stiffness to reduce roll‑off.
Use a two‑pad system when it improves outcomes
Stacking for warmth and redundancy:
R‑values add linearly. An inflatable with R 3.2 plus a foam pad with R 1.5 yields R 4.7. This approach increases warmth and preserves a functional sleep surface if the inflatable fails.
Foam under the inflatable:
Improves puncture resistance and total insulation.
Adds friction to reduce pad creep on slippery floors.
Foam on top of the inflatable:
Damps bounce and spreads load at the shoulder and hip.
Increases surface friction so you remain centered.
A thin sheet (1/8 to 1/4 in) typically yields a measurable comfort gain with modest mass.
Targeted layering:
For side sleeping, a short CCF segment under the torso often provides most of the comfort benefit at minimal weight.
Integrate the pad correctly inside a bivy sack
Fit and selection:
Many bivy sacks accommodate narrower and moderate‑thickness pads more cleanly. A 20 in pad often reduces zipper and seam stress. Very thick or very wide pads can reduce interior headroom.
Inflation and stability
Slightly softer inflation inside a bivy increases surface contact and reduces sliding. Use a light ground cloth to protect the pad and bivy floor.
Condensation management:
Maintain airflow at the hood and keep the pad surface dry. A thin textile layer on top of the pad decreases clamminess and can reduce perceived chill from evaporative cooling.
Manage the skin–pad interface for humidity, friction, and noise
Pad sheet or cover:
A light sheet over the torso decreases stickiness and noise and is easy to launder. A half‑length sleeve provides most of the benefit at lower mass.
Clothing as a barrier:
A thin long‑sleeve base layer and light tights form a stable microclimate, lower skin friction, and reduce squeak on high‑tenacity face fabrics.
Fabric considerations:
Brushed or softer top fabrics feel less clammy than slick laminates. If your pad surface is tacky against skin, a thin textile layer is the most reliable mitigation.
Pillow height and cervical alignment:
Pad thickness changes the pillow height you require. Match pillow loft to the final pad firmness to maintain a neutral cervical spine. Side sleeping typically needs greater loft than back sleeping. If the pillow migrates, add a low‑profile strap or a textured interface to increase friction.
Site selection and micro‑setup
Remove debris and micro‑contours before deployment.
A mild foot‑down slope is preferable to head‑down. As a guideline, keep head‑to‑foot elevation change below about 2.5 in across a 72 in pad.
If the shelter floor is slippery, place thin foam or a grippy ground cloth under the inflatable to reduce creep.
Durability and moisture control
Sit and cook on foam, not on the inflatable.
Carry a small inflatables repair kit and alcohol wipe in your sleep kit.
Dry the pad at home with valves open. Using a pump sack in cold weather limits internal condensation.
Summary of a field comfort protocol you can run in under two minutes
Inflate to firm with a pump sack.
Lie in your normal position and micro‑bleed to the deflection targets.
Run three diagnostics: elbow press, hip clearance, edge roll.
Add layers as indicated: foam under for protection and warmth, foam on top for damping and grip, textile layer for clamminess.
Match pillow height to the tuned pad firmness.
Recheck after sunset and add one short top‑off if the pad has cooled and softened.
Troubleshooting notes
Sore shoulder on side sleeping – add a brief top‑off or place thin foam on top under the torso.
Sliding off the edge – add a brief top‑off or choose a pad with raised rails; increase top‑surface friction with a textile layer.
Pad creep on shelter floor – add thin foam or a grippy ground cloth under the pad.
Clammy skin feel – deploy a pad sheet or wear a thin base layer.
Bivy zipper tension – select a narrower pad or reduce inflation slightly after getting inside.
Appendix Summary
Comfort on an inflatable pad is the output of a few controllable variables. If you set inflation to a measurable deflection, choose geometry that fits your body, integrate foam when appropriate, and manage the skin interface, you will see immediate improvements in stability, pressure distribution, and sleep continuity.
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In this article, we make the case for spending some extra weight on rain jackets and rain pants that offer more ventilation features (and durability) than typical ultralight rainwear styles (updated May 2026).
The 2026 REI Anniversary Sale runs from May 15 to 25, 2026. It is REI's biggest sale of the year - a great opportunity to find ultralight backpacking gear (some of it quite expensive, especially electronics, packs, shelters, sleeping pads, and sleeping bags) at big discounts - up to 30% off (and even more for REI Outlet items). ALSO: Members save 20% on one full-priced item and an extra 20% on one eligible Outlet item with coupon code ANNIV26.
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This REI Gear Guide contains an updated collection of hiking and backpacking products available at REI Co-Op that are recommended by Backpacking Light.
Backpacking Light product recommendations are based on light weight, high performance, market resilience, and reliability.
The primary purpose of this gear guide is to provide REI Members with a highly-focused list of products that meet the following criteria:
High Performance – The product is representative of the most performant products available among its market peers in the same weight range.
Light Weight – The product is representative of the lightest products available among its market peers in the same performance/functionality class.
Reliability – The product is not characterized by systemic functional flaws as a result of unsound design principles or defects in material or manufacturing quality.
Market Resilience – The product has an established market presence with a positive reputation among users. These two factors generally place the product among the top 10% of products in its category in terms of retailer sales volumes and low return rates.
Disclaimers
All products appearing in this gear guide have been used, tested, and inspected by Backpacking Light as part of its product review or guided wilderness trekking programs.
This gear guide contains affiliate links. However – buyer be aware – just because REI sells some gear that is lightweight and performant does not mean that the lightest or most performant gear available in a category is available at REI! In many categories, lighter and more performant options are available from cottage manufacturers and other retailers. For example, check out Garage Grown Gear, Feathered Friends, Hyperlite Mountain Gear, Tarptent, Durston Gear, and others in our Gear Brands database and in our Cottage Gear Guide.
We do not recommend all products for all situations. We leave it up to the user to identify the strengths and limitations of a particular product in a specific use case scenario.
Updates & Corrections Log
Updates and corrections to this gear guide are usually made twice yearly (spring and fall).
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Backcountry electronics are now a part of our modernized backpacking experience, with particular emphasis on rechargeable devices.
Headlamps, Flashlights, & Lanterns
Headlamps are the most useful lighting tool for backpacking because they keep both hands free for hiking, cooking, pitching shelter, and managing gear in the dark. Flashlights provide more focused handheld light and work well as backups or for quick camp tasks. Lanterns are useful for group camps, basecamps, and shared cooking areas, but they usually add weight and are less necessary for minimalist trips.
Decision Guidance
Choose a lighting system based on trip length, remoteness, and how much nighttime travel you expect. A reliable headlamp with good low-output performance, weather resistance, and enough battery life is the best primary choice for most backpackers.
Keychain lights are best used as backup or convenience lights for finding gear, reading a map briefly, or handling short camp tasks. Long-runtime lights are useful for thru-hiking, winter trips, expeditions, group leadership, and emergency kits where power conservation matters more than maximum brightness. Very bright lights are specialized tools for route-finding, signaling, searching, river crossings, or moving through complex terrain at night, but they usually trade brightness for shorter runtime, more heat, and higher battery demand.
The Petzl Swift LT is an ultra-compact, 43g, USB-C rechargeable headlamp that delivers up to 380 lumens via a wide, uniform beam. Three regulated white levels plus red and strobe modes, reflective headband, IPX4 weather resistance, and recycled materials support weight-critical backcountry applications and low-impact night travel.
An extreme-conditions headlamp with some unique features, including a 2200 mAh battery that remains stable against the headband because the lamp housing is a separately-pivoting unit. Burst mode provides 1100 lumens for 10 seconds, then turns off automatically. More than 4 hours of light in high (600 lumens) mode. Waterproof and submersible (IP67). 3.8 oz (108 g).
The Black Diamond Storm 500-R Rechargeable Headlamp delivers up to 500 lumens with a maximum beam distance of 120 meters, powered by a 2400 mAh Li-ion battery rechargeable via micro-USB; it features proximity and distance modes, dimming, strobe, red/green/blue night vision, lock mode, PowerTap™ Technology for instant brightness adjustment, and an IP67 waterproof/dustproof rating.
The Fenix HM50R V2.0 headlamp delivers up to 700 lumens with a beam distance of 115 meters, powered by an included 16340 rechargeable Li-ion battery; it features four white light levels, two red light modes, USB-C charging, and weighs 2.75 oz (78 g) including battery and headband.
The Coast G22R is a rechargeable penlight flashlight with an aluminum body, fixed BULLS-EYE Spot Beam, 150-lumen output, 63 m beam distance, IP54 dust and splash resistance, pocket clip, and RECHARGEABLE+ power system using an included USB-C rechargeable battery or AAA alkaline backup.
Black Diamond's Moji Lantern is a compact, lightweight lighting solution that offers a maximum output of 200 lumens and features a frosted globe for even light distribution. The lantern supports dual-fuel operation, running on either a rechargeable BD 1500 Li-ion battery or three AAA batteries (both sold separately). Additional features include a dimming switch for adjustable brightness, a double-hook hang loop for easy suspension, and an IPX4 stormproof rating. Multi-color LED lighting.
Satellite messengers allow backpackers to send location updates, basic text messages, and emergency SOS signals when cellular service is unavailable. They are most useful for remote trips, solo travel, off-trail routes, winter travel, international trips, and itineraries where delayed check-ins could trigger unnecessary concern or rescue response.
Decision Guidance
Choose a satellite messenger based on communication needs, coverage, battery life, subscription cost, and ease of use under stress. Basic one-way or preset-message devices can be adequate for simple check-ins, while two-way messaging is more useful for changing plans, coordinating pickups, receiving weather updates, or managing non-emergency problems in the field. For high-consequence trips, prioritize reliable SOS activation, clear status indicators, weather resistance, and enough battery capacity to remain functional for the full trip.
The Garmin inReach Mini 3 Plus addresses off-grid communication and emergency coordination by combining two-way satellite messaging, photo and voice messaging, and interactive SOS via the Iridium network in a 4.42 oz handheld. It adds a 1.9 in color touch screen, IP67 housing, internal Li-ion (up to 350 h at 10 min tracking), pressure altimeter, compass, visual basemap, LiveTrack location sharing, voice-command operation, and smartphone/watch integration for control, routing, weather, and trip syncing.
The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus is currently the only satellite messaging device on the market that can transmit photos and audio messages (voice memos) via satellite.
WEIGHT:
4.1 ounces (116 g)
WHAT'S UNIQUE:
can transmit photos and voice memos
reverse-charging capability
integrates with both Garmin Messenger (messaging) and Garmin Explore (navigation) smartphone apps
Requires a smartphone to get the most out of it, but arguably offers the best service package of all messengers, including more usable test modes and access to non-emergency medical assistance. Other benefits include an assigned (fixed) messaging number and long-form messages that don't get truncated.
ABC, GPS, and fitness watches can provide altitude, barometric pressure, compass bearing, route tracking, heart rate, pace, distance, and other trip data from the wrist. They are most useful for navigation support, monitoring weather trends, tracking effort, logging routes, and managing pace on long hikes, mountain routes, or training-focused trips.
Decision Guidance
Choose a watch based on the information you actually use in the field. ABC watches are useful for altitude, barometric trend, and compass functions without full GPS battery demands. GPS watches add route tracking, navigation prompts, and distance data, but require more frequent charging. Fitness watches are best for hikers who care about training metrics, recovery, pace, and heart rate, but they should not replace a map, compass, dedicated GPS, or smartphone navigation system on higher-consequence trips.
The Fenix 8 AMOLED is the current standard-bearer of ABC/GPS fitness watches. It offers similar guts and sensor technology as the Garmin Epix Pro 2 (including multiband/L5), but with a modified (simpler) user interface and a new codebase. Recent firmware updates in late 2024 have improved responsiveness, battery life, customization features, and usability.
The COROS APEX 4 is a GPS sports watch with dual-size 42 mm and 46 mm construction, titanium bezel, sapphire glass, always-on Memory-in-Pixel display, wrist-based heart rate, pressure altimeter, compass, pulse oximeter, mapping layers, and listed weights of 56 g and 65 g.
Portable battery chargers extend the usable life of phones, headlamps, satellite messengers, GPS devices, cameras, and other electronics on backpacking trips. They are most useful for multi-day trips, cold-weather travel, smartphone-based navigation, photography, satellite messaging, and trips where recharging opportunities are limited.
Decision Guidance
Choose a battery charger based on total energy needs, trip length, device mix, charging speed, weight, and weather resistance. Smaller power banks are adequate for short trips or emergency phone top-offs. Larger-capacity chargers are better for thru-hiking, winter trips, camera use, heavy navigation, or multiple devices. Prioritize reliable output, appropriate cable compatibility, cold-weather performance, and enough capacity to finish the trip with a margin, rather than carrying excess battery weight for unlikely use cases.
Anker’s MagGo 5,000 mAh ultra-slim power bank delivers 15 W MagSafe-compatible wireless output and 20 W max USB C charging from a 19.35 Wh lithium-polymer cell. It reportedly recharges an iPhone 16 Pro to 25 percent in 42 minutes. The 4 x 2.78 x 0.34 inch aluminum-alloy, silicone, and PC housing weighs just 3.7 oz, making it the lightest Magsafe charger with this energy capacity.
Backpacking shelters range from fully enclosed hub-and-pole tents to minimalist tarps, bivy sacks, hammocks, and four-season pyramid shelters. The best choices balance weight, weather protection, livable space, setup complexity, and adaptability to terrain and season. Our recommendations emphasize performance in adverse weather, efficient space-to-weight ratios, fabric behavior in wet conditions, structural design efficiency, and practical setup in real-world backcountry environments.
Decision Guidance
Choose a shelter based on expected weather, campsite terrain, bug pressure, group size, and how much exposure risk you are willing to manage.
Hub-and-pole tents are the most familiar option for backpackers who want enclosed protection, easier setup, and good interior livability. Side-entry tents usually provide easier access and better vestibule usability, while front-entry tents can save weight and pack size but often feel less livable. Hammocks are useful in forested environments where flat ground is limited, but they require trees, suspension management, insulation below the body, and a tarp for weather protection.
Four-season pyramid shelters are strong choices for snow, wind, and exposed terrain because they offer excellent structural efficiency and weather resistance for their weight. Lightweight tarps provide modular, low-weight protection for experienced users who are comfortable with site selection, pitching technique, and exposure management. Bivy sacks are best for minimalist shelter systems, emergency protection, alpine-style camps, or pairing with tarps when bug, splash, or wind protection is needed.
Of all tents by Nemo, the Hornet Elite series provides the highest performance (livability and storm protection) to weight ratio. Fabric absorbs less water and stretches less than conventional nylon tent fabrics.
The Big Agnes Copper Spur UL line featured a dual-hub + eyebrow peak pole design that offers more livable volume than other tents with similar footprints and weights. Because of its steep walls, its wind resistance is somewhat limited unless you secure all extra guyline tie-outs.
Other manufacturers (esp. BA) dominate the market of front-entry tents that are considered "ultralight". However, the Mountain Hardwear Nimbus series offers slight mods to the hub-and-pole geometry, fly cut, and guyline configuration to significantly improve stormworthiness.
The Dagger series, now upgraded to more performance Osmo fabric (lighter, less water absorption, less stretch) is Nemo's most livable design. More stormworthy (wind and snow-loading) than the Copper Spur when guylines are deployed.
High-quality, lightweight, affordable pyramid shelters are hard to come by. This is one of them. Suitable for 4-season (snow) use. Roomy for 2+gear. A bit tight at its rated 4-person capacity.
Kammok's lightest tarp offers extensive coverage for either hammock campers or ground sleepers. Catenary edges allow for a fast and tight A-frame pitch with minimal guyline fiddling.
The REI Co-op Flash Air Tarp is a nonfreestanding square tarp shelter made from seam-taped recycled ripstop nylon with a PU hydrophobic back and silicone face, multiple edge and centerline lash points, 114 x 114 in coverage, and a listed weight of 1 lb. 4 oz.
The Big Agnes Three Wire Hooped Bivy is a 1-person single-wall hooped bivy shelter with pole-sleeve-supported structure, Pertex Shield 3-layer upper fabric, 30-denier ripstop nylon HyperBead floor, single stormflap door with dual windows, 2 roof vents, and 1 lb. 6 oz. weight.
At 5.5 ounces (156 g), this is the lightest waterproof-breathable bivy sack available. Made with nonwoven PP, this is an incidental-use bivvy for most users. We recommend it as a day-hiking essential, for use under tarps in storms, or in single-wall tents in high-condensation conditions.
Most users still prefer mummy-style sleeping bags, but as pad attachment systems, draft collars, more sophisticated baffle designs, and premium materials find their way into quilts, they are becoming more popular.
Sleeping bags and quilts provide the primary insulation system for overnight backpacking. Options range from fully enclosed mummy bags to hoodless quilts, hybrid designs, synthetic bags, down bags, summer-weight systems, and cold-weather sleep systems. Our recommendations emphasize the warmth-to-weight ratio, temperature-rating reliability, draft control, moisture management, packability, fit, construction quality, and performance under realistic backcountry conditions.
Decision Guidance
Choose a sleeping bag or quilt based on expected low temperatures, sleep style, shelter type, moisture exposure, and how much weight or simplicity you are willing to trade for warmth and security.
Mummy bags provide the most integrated warmth because they combine a hood, zipper, draft collar, and an enclosed footbox into a single system. They are the safer choice for colder conditions, exposed camps, restless sleepers, and users who want fewer variables to manage at night.
Quilts save weight and pack smaller by eliminating the underside insulation that gets compressed beneath the body, but they require a reliable sleeping pad and better draft management. They work best for experienced users, warmer conditions, hammock systems, and backpackers who value freedom of movement.
Down insulation offers the best warmth-to-weight ratio and compressibility, making it the preferred choice for most dry or cold backpacking conditions. Synthetic insulation is bulkier and heavier for the same warmth, but it retains more insulating value when damp and may be preferable for prolonged wet conditions, humid climates, or users who want lower cost and simpler care.
For cold-weather use, pay close attention to fit, pad insulation, hood design, neck sealing, and draft control. A warm bag or quilt will underperform if paired with an inadequate sleeping pad, worn with damp clothing, or used in a shelter system that allows convective heat loss.
Latest Updates: The REI Magma Trail Quilt 30 is now offered in wide girth sizing options in both medium and large lengths, more down fill, more generous girth, and a more versatile footbox with a combination zipper-drawcord closure system.
The NEMO Pulse Quilt is filled with 1,000 FP water-resistant down featuring a highly stabilizing Karo-step baffle design and an effective cord-based pad attachment system. Made from 100% recycled (and recyclable with the manufacturer) materials. See it at REI, Garage Grown Gear, and Nemo.
The REI Magma series of sleeping bags have a very specific design strategy - use *almost* the lightest materials - and offer performance that's at the high end of the market without top-of-market pricing. This strategy works because there are a lot of users willing to carry an extra 2 ounces in a premium sleeping bag while saving $50 or $100 (or more).
A high amount of down fill, combined with premium ultralight fabrics, warmth-retention features (insulated zipper guard, draft collar), and a decades-long legacy of sleeping bag design, the Alpinlite represents 3-season versatilty and temperature rating accuracy as well as any product on the market.
Modern sleeping pads (mats) are inflatable, insulated, thick, stable, and compact when packed. Factors that separate the highest-performing pads include their warmth-to-weight ratio, fabric durability, and stability.
Sleeping pads provide insulation, cushioning, and ground protection, and they directly affect sleep quality and warmth. Backpacking pads range from ultralight air pads to closed-cell foam pads, insulated winter pads, short pads, wide pads, and multi-pad systems. Our recommendations emphasize warmth-to-weight ratio, comfort, durability, packed size, inflation simplicity, field repairability, and performance across different temperatures and terrain.
Decision Guidance
Choose a sleeping pad based on expected overnight temperatures, sleep comfort needs, durability risk, surface conditions, and how much weight or bulk you are willing to carry.
Air pads offer the best comfort and packed size for most backpackers, but they can puncture and should be paired with a repair kit. Closed-cell foam pads are durable, inexpensive, and useful as sit pads, frame sheets, or backup insulation, but they are bulkier and less comfortable. Insulated pads are important for cold-weather trips, snow camping, and shoulder-season use where ground heat loss becomes significant. Short pads reduce weight but require the use of a pack or spare clothing under the legs. Wide or thick pads improve comfort for side sleepers and restless sleepers, but they add weight and may not fit well in narrow shelters.
For snow camping or very cold ground, a two-pad system is often more reliable than a single air pad. Pairing an insulated inflatable pad with a thin closed-cell foam pad increases total insulation, adds puncture protection, and provides a backup if the air pad fails. A thin closed-cell foam pad can also be useful on slick tent floors, where it helps reduce pad slippage and keeps an inflatable pad from sliding around during the night.
Stable baffle platform, high comfort-to-weight ratio, the most popular all-around sleeping pad in our community
The NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad is a 1-person insulated air pad with Spaceframe baffles, two suspended Thermal Mirror film layers, 20-denier nylon top, 40-denier nylon bottom, 3.5 in. thickness, 5.4 R-value, Laylow valve, and 14.1 oz. minimum weight.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT is a 1-person mummy air sleeping pad with Triangular Core Matrix construction, ThermaCapture insulation, 3 in. thickness, 4.5 R-value, WingLock valve, multiple size options, and a listed Regular weight of 13 oz.
The Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated ASC Sleeping Pad is an insulated air pad with Air Sprung Cell construction, ThermalCore insulation with a suspended TRM reflective layer, 10 cm thickness, 4.1 R-value, XPRESS valve, integrated pump sack, and 470 g Regular weight.
The NEMO Tensor Elite Mummy Sleeping Pad is an insulated mummy air pad with Apex baffle construction, 10D Cordura nylon ripstop fabric, single-layer Thermal Mirror film insulation, 3 in. thickness, 2.4 R-value, Laylow valve, and 8.5 oz / 240 g Regular Mummy minimum weight.
The NEMO Tensor Extreme Conditions Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad is a 1-person insulated air pad with Apex baffle construction, 4 floating Thermal Mirror film layers, 20-denier nylon top, 40-denier nylon bottom, 3.5 in. thickness, 8.5 R-value, Laylow valve, and 1 lb. 2 oz. Regular weight.
Its high R-value (7.3), thickness (3 inches / 7.6 cm), and small packed size make the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xtherm a competitive option for all-season conditions. See it at REI, Garage Grown Gear, and Thermarest.
Also available in a rectangular (NXT MAX) version from REI and Thermarest.
The Nemo Switchback offers more thickness (0.87 in) than both the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol (0.75 in) and Exped FlexMat (0.7 in) in a dual-density foam and hexagonal cell nesting pattern. It folds more compactly than the Z Lite and provides better insulation (R-value 2.0) than the FlexMat (R-value 1.5). Among closed-cell foam pads, the Switchback is perhaps the most refined and versatile design.
If you are unwilling to sacrifice comfort and want a sleeping pad that feels like an inflatable bed, the 4.6-inch Thermarest Neoloft is worth considering. Why? Because it only weighs 30 ounces (850 g) in the regular-wide variant. It's not only thick, but perimeter baffles cradle your body and stretch knit fabric feels warmer and less clammy than smooth fabrics. While there are pads at this weight that are more insulative, there are none that can match the comfort and stability of the Neoloft.
Black Diamond Beta Light 45, Rocky Mountain National Park.
This selection represents backpacks that offer a strategic balance between weight, structural integrity, and functional design, suitable for long-distance trekking or lightweight backpacking. Selection criteria prioritized pack weight relative to load-carrying capacity, suspension efficiency, pocket architecture, fabric durability, and modularity for variable gear configurations. Packs with roll-top closures, streamlined pocket layouts, and external attachment options were favored for their adaptability and efficiency in the field. Consideration was also given to harness comfort, load transfer, and ventilation features that enhance all-day carry performance under typical backpacking loads. The products included span a range of use cases, from minimalist ultralight packs to more supportive designs intended for extended trips or higher-volume kits.
With updated (more durable) UHMWPE face fabric for 2025, the HMG Southwest is the most versatile of all HMG packs. Hip belt pockets, internal frame, roll-top closure and Y-strap, and an ice axe loop. One of the most iconic designs in the ultralight backpacking genre, but with durable fabrics for years of hard use. See the 40L, 55L, and 70L models.
The Black Diamond Beta Light 45 (1 lb 15 oz / 890 g) features Ultra 200 fabric, a vest-style harness, internal frame, two side pockets, large stretch mesh back pocket, and storage in pockets and pouches on the hip belt and shoulder straps. Roll-top closure and over-the-top strap, cord compression secures gear on side panels and pack bottom.
The REI Flash series of lightweight backpacks has seen several refinements over the years, and the Flash Air represents the latest incarnation. This is one of the few backpacks made by a large manufacturer that has well-executed thru-hiking DNA in it - a roll-top closure, 3-pocket design, hip and shoulder pockets, and a well-padded harness that carries loads well.
Osprey isn't well-known for making light packs. They've tried with the Exos & Eja PRO series - but we don't recommend them for their poor load-carrying capacity. The non-PRO Exos/Eja, however, offer both load-carrying stability and harness comfort that is rare among lightweight packs. So if you are looking for a pack where you need a little more padding, or want some additional ventilation across your back, or want a top lid, the standard versions of the Exos (men's) and Eja (women's) are good choices.
Ultralight chairs provide rest and relaxation around camp while socializing, cooking, stargazing, or just lounging around doing nothing without having to suffer on hard ground.
This selection includes seating options that provide a functional balance between comfort, portability, and packed efficiency for backcountry use. Evaluation criteria focused on total weight, packed size, deployment speed, seating ergonomics, and stability on uneven terrain. Products were selected to represent a range of use cases – from minimalist stools and frame-based chairs for trail breaks and relaxed camp lounging, to reclining models offering adjustable positioning, and sit-pad-style chairs optimized for confined spaces like tents or snow shelters. Durability of frame materials, ease of assembly, and comfort during extended use were also considered to ensure suitability for multi-day backpacking trips where rest and recovery matter.
Lightweight, minimalist, compact – easy to deploy for trail breaks
Packable, durable, and fast to deploy. Especially useful for sitting inside your shelter where headroom is limited and you don't want to damage your shelter floor.
Backpacking shoes should offer enough width and volume to accommodate foot swelling from long miles, toebox width for foot splay, low drop for biomechanics, durability to withstand abrasion, sole traction, some midsole stiffness for hiking with a heavy pack, and moderate cushioning for impact comfort over the course of a long day.
This collection focuses on footwear for lightweight and ultralight backpacking on maintained trails, in rugged terrain, and during moderate off-trail travel. Models were selected for their balance of low weight, reliable traction, underfoot protection, durability, fit, moisture management, and demonstrated multi-season performance.
The selection spans trail runners, structured fast-hiking shoes, and approach-style shoes. Each model represents a different trade-off among cushioning, drop height, ground feel, torsional stiffness, upper durability, drying efficiency, and outsole performance. Priority was given to shoes that maintain stability under a loaded backpack, offer secure traction on loose or wet surfaces, and provide enough protection for long days without moving into traditional boot territory.
The goal is to give backpackers practical options for different terrain and foot needs, from high-mileage trail hiking to rougher, rockier environments where durability, precision, and protection matter more.
Decision Guide: Choosing Backpacking Shoes
Backpacking shoe choice starts with terrain, mileage, load, and foot shape – not category labels. Trail runners are often the best choice for maintained trails and high-mileage days, but they are not always the best choice for sharp rock, heavy loads, talus, slabs, or sustained off-trail travel.
For thru-hiking (e.g., 20-30 mi/day on maintained trails), start with trail runners. They offer the best balance of low weight, walking efficiency, fast drying, and all-day comfort.
For long-distance hiking where durability matters more, consider more structured trail runners or so-called “fast-hiking” shoes. These usually provide firmer midsoles, more protective uppers, and better underfoot protection than softer thru-hiking shoes.
For off-trail talus, granite, slabs, and scrambling, approach shoes are usually the better starting point. They offer better edging, stickier rubber, rand protection, and more precise foot placement on rock.
For heavy loads, sharp rock, ankle instability, or low shoe-turnover tolerance, look at light hikers or approach/hiking hybrids. These shoes add structure, torsional rigidity, and durability compared to most trail runners.
For wide feet, foot swelling, or thru-hiker-style comfort, prioritize Altra or Topo models. Their roomier forefoot shapes are better suited to long days, repeated high-mileage use, and feet that expand during a trip.
For edging, scrambling, and precise foot placement, start with La Sportiva or Scarpa approach models. These are better suited to technical terrain where rock security and lateral precision matter more than plush cushioning.
Versatile, zero- or low-drop, wide forefoot, moderate cushion, proven trail shoes in the thru-hiking community
Zero-drop, moderate cushion, moderate stiffness, wide toebox, and light weight. One of the most popular trail backpacking shoes in our community. Not recommended for steep off-trail travel.
The Topo Athletic Ultraventure features a 30mm ZipFoam midsole for cushioning and a Vibram XS Trek EVO outsole for traction, providing stable and responsive performance for hikers and backpackers on long-distance backcountry routes.
The HOKA Speedgoat is a rugged trail-running shoe with a 5 mm drop, supercritical foam EVA midsole, woven rPET textile lining, dual-gusset lay-flat tongue, gaiter-integration loop, and Vibram Megagrip Traction Lug outsole with 5 mm lugs.
The Brooks Cascadia is a rugged trail-running shoe with 3D Fit Print air-mesh uppers, toe caps, mudguards, an articulated Ballistic Rock Shield integrated into a nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 midsole, a TrailTack Green outsole, a 6 mm drop, and 1 lb. 5.4 oz. pair weight.
Compared to a typical trail running shoe, these offer more durable uppers and soles, better wet traction, and an external heel counter for more stability. A proven backpacking shoe.
Fine for dirt trails, but the Bushido excels in technical (off-trail) terrain and very rocky trails. One of the highest-traction outsoles we've ever tested on wet rock. Moderately firm cushion and low drop make it a very sensitive shoe for foot placement precision. Moderate stiffness provides protective resilience for backpacking.
The Scarpa Ribelle Cross is a low-cut light hiking shoe with a two-layer upper, breathable inner bootie, technical mesh, external TPU overlays, heel TPU insert, pressure-distributing lacing, Presa HIK-06 outsole geometry, and a listed 420 g weight in size 42 (W).
The Salomon Speedcross is a rugged trail-running shoe with welded synthetic/textile uppers, SensiFit construction, Quicklace single-pull closure, EnergyCell+ midsole, Mud Contagrip rubber outsole with deep lugs, 10 mm drop, and a listed pair weight of 1 lb. 5 oz.
Approach shoes for backpackers are hard to come by. A shoe has to perform on talus, scree, and scramble - but still provide comfort for long trail miles (some cushion and a reasonable width). The La Sportiva TX4 Evo series is one of the rare shoes that accomplishes both well. The new ST variant has breathable mesh panels on the upper - but still retains a full rand.
The SCARPA Rapid LT is an approach shoe with polyester mesh uppers, TPU overlays, a 360° rand, secure lace-up closure, 2-density EVA midsole, TPU insert support, Vibram Agility XT Megagrip outsole, toe climbing zones, heel braking zones, and a listed pair weight of 1 lb. 9.4 oz.
A few strategic pieces of gear can keep you safe and confident on snow, whether crossing a pass during early summer in the High Sierra or expanding your hiking season to winter trekking in the Rocky Mountains.
Traction and snow management tools constitute a critical component of winter and alpine safety systems, directly influencing both risk exposure and movement efficiency in complex terrain. Traction spikes provide point-loading at the foot/snow interface that substantially increases friction on packed trails and low to moderate angle slopes, thereby reducing the likelihood of slip-and-fall incidents where full crampons would be excessive or impractical. Snowshoes increase surface area to reduce postholing and lower energetic cost of travel, which in turn preserves cognitive and physical reserves for route finding and hazard assessment in cold environments. In steeper or more consequential terrain, an ice axe functions as both a mobility aid and a self-arrest tool, offering the capacity to manage slips before they escalate into uncontrolled falls. Shovels serve not only for constructing shelters and platforms but also as essential instruments for avalanche rescue, rapid snowpack assessment, and managing campsite microtopography to reduce exposure to wind and spindrift.
Kahtoola Microspikes feature 12 spikes, 3/8” length, and a wide forefoot pattern for traction and security of variable icy and packed snowy terrain. An elastomer harness stays flexible in below zero (F) temperatures for security on flexible footwear. Durable chain links withstand repeated stress on steep terrain.
MICROspikes Ghost is a chain-free full-foot footwear traction device using a TPU underfoot matrix and hybrid TPE/TPR harness with twelve 0.36 in (9 mm) heat-treated stainless steel spikes per foot, weighing 6.4–7.4 oz (179–208 g) per pair and packing to 4.5 x 4 x 2 in.
Designed for demanding alpine environments, the MSR Lightning Ascent men’s snowshoes integrate a 360-degree traction frame, Paragon bindings, and Ergo Televators to optimize grip, efficiency, and fatigue management on steep, variable snow surfaces, providing a lightweight, mechanically sophisticated platform for winter travel under significant loads.
The CAMP Corsa ice axe features a 7075-T6 aluminum alloy construction, meeting CE and UIAA strength requirements while maintaining a lightweight design. It includes a forged aluminum pick and adze, nylon spike plug, and CC4U wear indicator, suitable for hiking, basic ski mountaineering, glacier travel, and self-arrest.
After surveying more than 500 pieces of apparel (rain jackets, insulating jackets, base layers, trekking clothes, and accessories) at REI over the past year, very little stands out. That’s because the outdoor apparel market has become so blurred that it’s hard to separate technically engineered apparel from commodified fashion.
Arc’teryx Beta SL in the central Colorado Rockies.
The Arc'teryx Beta SL is the lightest rain jacket on the market that combines a full feature set (generous fit, extensive ventilation, high breathability) AND durable (40D+) fabrics.
When a rain jacket spends most of its time stowed in your pack, weight becomes its most important feature. Of the rain jackets on the market that weigh less than 8 ounces, the Helium is one of the more refined models - waterproof zips, a usable hood, moderately breathable fabric, and articulated fit that's roomy enough for layering.
We understand that there is a limited use case for a very-low loft down hoody - for mild temperatures and layering. But to execute that strategy effectively, you have to use minimalist design and ultralight fabrics. Black Diamond is one of the very few brands who have done this successfully with the Deploy Hoody.
This recommendation is all about the price - you'll be hard-pressed to find a jacket at this price point, warmth level, and weight. At less than 11 ounces (310 g), this jacket has more down than fashion-chic "tiny baffle" jackets without being so bulky you can't layer a rain jacket over it if necessary.
Before you dismiss this as another "iteration" of the Nano line, note its weight: 8.8 ounces (250 g). This version is different - and the one we've been waiting for at Backpacking Light for nearly a decade. Finally, we have an air-permeable softshell fabric that's actually ultralight combined with a touch of insulation. This makes the Nano-Air ultralight a very compelling option for active insulation as a shell when worn over a light base layer, or under a rain jacket.
Outdoor Research Flurry Sensor Gloves are midweight gloves constructed with a wool, polyester, and nylon blend outer for warmth, hydrophobic water-resistantce, and durability. The inner lining is soft polyester fleece, providing next-to-skin comfort and additional insulation. These gloves feature silicone grip pads on the palm and fingers for improved grip and touchscreen-compatible suede patches on the thumb and index finger for device use without removal. Weight is approximately 2.3–2.6 oz
REI Co-op Minimalist GTX Mittens are lightweight, waterproof-breathable shell mittens designed for layering over liner gloves to provide protection from rain, wind, and snow. They use a 3-layer GORE-TEX membrane with fully taped seams for reliable waterproofing and breathability. The shell is made from recycled polyester, and the mittens feature an angled hook-and-loop (Velcro) wrist strap for an adjustable fit, as well as elastic-bound cuffs for easy on and off. Touchscreen-compatible material is applied to the thumb, fingers, and palm, though dexterity is limited due to the mitten design. Each pair weighs approximately 1.4 oz (size large) and measures about 11 inches in length, extending just past the wrist for added coverage. These mittens are intended for use as a shell layer in wet or windy conditions and can be packed down to a compact size for easy storage.
Black Diamond Waterproof Overmitts are lightweight, non-insulated shell mittens designed to be worn over gloves or liners for added waterproof and windproof protection in wet or cold conditions. Constructed with a stretchy, 3-layer waterproof-breathable fabric and fully taped seams, they provide a reliable barrier against rain, snow, and wind. The mitts feature a textured palm for improved grip, an adjustable drawcord (long) gauntlet to seal out the elements (especially useful in snowy conditions), and an articulated fit to accommodate layering. 94 grams (3.3 oz) per pair.
Outdoor Research ActiveIce Chroma Sun Gloves are fingerless gloves designed for sun protection and breathability. They use a lightweight, stretch knit fabric (polyester/spandex) that wicks moisture and dries quickly. The back of the hand provides UPF 50+ sun protection. The palm features perforated synthetic suede overlays for durability and grip. The gloves have a hook-and-loop cuff tab for an adjustable fit and weigh approximately 1.2 oz (34 g).
The original Buff has been mimicked but not matched. It's still the lightest for its coverage, offers reliable SPF sun protection, and helps keep the bugs at bay. Use it to boost warmth as a hat, balaclava, or neck gaiter when it's cold. Makes a nice face/mouth/nose cover for sleeping in extreme cold. Washcloth, towel, rag - the Buff is as multi-functional as it comes.
Upright canisters stoves are the most common option in the ultralight backpacking community because of their ease of use, power, compact size, and light weight.
This selection focuses on cooking systems that optimize performance, efficiency, and portability for backpacking. Canister stoves were evaluated based on criteria such as boil time, fuel efficiency, wind resistance, temperature regulation, and ignition reliability. Both upright and integrated systems are represented to reflect trade-offs between modular flexibility and all-in-one performance in inclement conditions. Cookware was selected based on weight, versatility, cook kit nesting, and material durability – particularly in titanium models that offer minimal weight without compromising function.
Highest-performing canister stoves in inclement conditions
The MSR PocketRocket Deluxe Stove is a canister-fueled backpacking stove featuring a push-start piezo igniter, pressure regulator, and broad burner head; it weighs 2.9 oz., measures 3.3 x 2.2 x 1.8 in., and boils 1 liter of water in 3 minutes 18 seconds using isobutane-propane fuel.
The Soto Windmaster Stove is a lightweight (87g) canister stove featuring a concave burner head design that acts as a built-in windscreen, enhancing performance in windy conditions. It includes the 4Flex pot support, suitable for larger cookware, and offers an output of 2800 kcal/h (3260W/11000 BTU). The stove maintains consistent boil times across various temperatures and can boil 2 cups of water in under 2.5 minutes, even in strong winds. It is compatible with butane, isobutane, and propane mixtures, but not with 100% propane.
In every objective boil and burn test we've run according to the StoveBench Protocol, the MSR Windburner has outpaced all other integrated canister stoves with heat-exchanger pots. It's faster, more fuel-efficient, and resilient in inclement weather - especially wind.
At 3.6 ounces (102 g), the Toaks 750 is the lightest solo titanium cooking pot available (thanks to its thin-walled titanium). It nests a 110-g fuel canister inside - with your stove - making a very compact cook kit inside your pack.
Bear-resistant food storage not only protects your food – it protects the bears – and is a critical component of both your backcountry safety strategy and your LNT strategy.
This selection includes food storage systems that meet recognized standards for bear resistance while addressing the weight and volume constraints of backcountry travel. Products were evaluated based on their compliance with regulatory certifications (e.g., IGBC), mechanical resistance to wildlife intrusion, ease of use in the field, and storage efficiency. Hard-sided canisters offer consistent performance in high-risk areas due to their rigid structure and universal approval in most protected zones. Soft-sided alternatives provide weight and volume savings for regions where they are permitted. All included products reflect a balance between protection, usability, and packability, supporting both backcountry safety and Leave No Trace principles.
BearVault offers a range of bear-resistant food canisters designed for backpackers and hikers, varying in capacity and weight to suit different trip lengths:
BV ONE: Expandable/collapsible volume: 282 to 505 cubic inches (4.6 to 8.3 L), 2.0 lbs (0.91 kg), 5.6 to 8.5 inches (height) x 9.9 inches (dia).
BV500-Journey: 700 cubic inches (11.5 L), 2 lbs 9 oz (1.16 kg), 12.7 inches (height) x 8.7 inches (dia).
BV475-Trek: 565 cubic inches (9.3 L), 2 lbs 4 oz (1.03 kg), 10.5 inches (height) x 8.7 inches (dia).
BV450-Jaunt: 440 cubic inches (7.2 L), 2 lbs 1 oz (940 g), 8.3 inches (height) x 8.7 inches (dia).
BV425-Sprint: 305 cubic inches (5 L), 1 lb 12 oz (800 g), 6 inches (height) x 8.7 inches (dia).
BearVault canisters are constructed from durable polycarbonate material, feature transparent walls for easy content visibility, and have a wide opening with a screw-on lid that doesn't require tools to operate. They are certified bear-resistant by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC).
Lighter and more compact than a bear canister. The Ursack series of bear-resistant food storage bags save weight and bulk in areas where bear canisters are not required or Ursacks are certified as lawful food storage options.
A cult favorite in the ultralight community for its ease of use, pre-mix stability, efficacy against viruses, bacteria, and protozoan cysts, and its ability to impart better flavor and odor to bad water sources. Can be repackaged if using opaque PE dropper bottles.
Aquatabs contain Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC), which releases hypochlorous acid (HOCl) - a powerful, broad-spectrum disinfectant that is both faster-acting and more palatable than iodine. Unlike iodine tablets, which leave an unpleasant taste and are less effective against viruses and cysts, NaDCC provides superior pathogen inactivation, works better in cold and turbid water, and does not discolor water or stain containers. It’s also safer for long-term use. And unlike chlorine bleach-based disinfectants, which degrade quickly and deliver a harsh taste with imprecise dosing, Aquatabs use more stable compounds to release controlled amounts of disinfectant for safer, more effective, and better-tasting water purification.
The Katadyn BeFree Water Filtration System 1.0L is a lightweight, fast-flowing filter with a 0.1-micron hollow fiber membrane that removes bacteria and protozoa. Its collapsible design and easy-to-use squeeze mechanism make it an efficient water purification solution for hikers and backpackers seeking portability and convenience.
The HydraPak Seeker Collapsible Water Container is constructed from BPA- and PVC-free TPU, polypropylene, and nylon, and is compatible with 42 mm threaded filters (e.g., BeFree).
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Small business are the backbone of the outdoor community: help us by supporting the little guys making innovative & unique gear & apparel. Check out deals from 90+ small outdoor brands May 12-19th, 2026!
It’s not hard to find mass-market gear from big (corporate) brands at big box and specialty retailer stores. And for the most part, much of that gear is manufactured at a reasonable standard of quality. However, the outdoor gear industry (and even the so-called ultralight sub-market) is mature enough now that much of the gear lacks innovation in design or materials, and is marketed as “does everything well enough” instead of being really good at addressing more specific use cases.
That’s where startups, small brands, and cottage gear makers come in. They are more nimble, so their designs can evolve more rapidly in response to customer feedback. They aren’t stuck producing giant lots in large factories, so they can be more experimental and innovative with materials and design. And they (often) don’t distribute through large retailers and distributors. This means that more of the markup you are paying for this gear goes directly to the brand owners and employees, domestic production, and innovative (small batch) design, rather than sales, marketing, and distribution.
In this gear guide, our editorial team has curated a collection of gear from small, startup, and cottage brands across a wide range of gear categories. We have personally used and tested every item in this gear guide, and in all cases, the products represent gear we recommend based on actual field experience.
Updates & Corrections Log
2026/05/12 – Reorganized product categories, added new subcategories, removed discontinued products, and updated specific product recommendations across all categories. In addition, we are continuing to expand category-level consumer advice to include product-agnostic decision-making guidelines.
2025/11/25 – Removed discontinued products, updated links, added new products from Grubcan, Magnet, Teragon, Luxefly, Petzl, LiteWerks, and Cumulus. Replaced Flipfuel with Alpenflow as our recommended fuel transfer device. Added a new section for food.
2025/03/12 – Updated with new products, fixed broken links.
DISCLOSURE: This gear guide is sponsored by Garage Grown Gear (GGG) and features products sold through the Garage Grown Gear online marketplace. See the full disclosure at the end of this article for more information.
Garage Grown Gear is an online marketplace featuring ultralight and cottage-industry outdoor gear, with a selection of backpacks, shelters, apparel, and accessories from independent brands. It focuses on small-batch, innovative products for backpacking, hiking, and adventure travel.
Cottage-industry shelters are not just lighter versions of mainstream tents. They usually reflect a more specialized design philosophy: trekking-pole support, innovative fabrics, smaller production runs, simplified hardware, and narrower use-case assumptions.
Many cottage shelters reduce weight by shifting more responsibility to the user. A trekking-pole shelter may require better staking and pitch tension. A single-wall shelter may require more attention to ventilation and condensation. A DCF shelter may save weight and absorb little water, but it costs more, packs differently, and requires care around abrasion. A tarp, pyramid, or modular shelter system may be highly adaptable, but only if the user understands which components are appropriate for the route and conditions.
When evaluating cottage shelters, look beyond just the listed weight. Compare the full system: shelter body, stakes, guylines, poles, inner net, groundsheet, repair materials, and any components required for normal use. Also consider the shelter’s usable interior volume, storm geometry (additional guylines), floor durability, ventilation, and stake dependence.
Cottage shelters tend to make the most sense when you have a specific problem to solve: reducing shelter weight, improving modularity, using trekking poles as structure, or replacing mainstream tent features you do not need. They are less compelling when you need one tent to work across many trip types, frequently camp on poor staking surfaces, or want maximum setup simplicity after a long day.
1-Person Tents – Dyneema Composite Fabrics
Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF) tents occupy the premium end of the cottage shelter market. They are popular among ultralight backpackers because they offer low weight, low water absorption, and high tear strength relative to weight. But DCF is not an automatic upgrade. It is expensive, relatively bulky when packed, less abrasion-resistant than many users expect, and often paired with minimalist single-wall shelter designs that require good campsite selection and condensation management.
In this guide, 1-person DCF tents refer to fully enclosed solo shelters made primarily with Dyneema Composite Fabric, most often produced by cottage or specialty ultralight manufacturers and designed around low weight, low water absorption, and compact shelter systems.
Decision Notes: 1P DCF Tents
Advantages:
Very low weight for a fully enclosed shelter.
Absorbs little water, so it does not gain much weight in sustained rain.
Does not sag as much when wet compared to many lightweight woven fabrics.
High tear strength relative to weight.
Often used in highly specialized cottage shelter designs.
Can be a good fit for long-distance hikers who prioritize low carried weight and fast drying.
Limitations:
Expensive compared to silpoly or silnylon shelters.
Bulkier to pack than many woven-fabric shelters.
More vulnerable to abrasion than many users assume, especially in floors and high-wear areas.
Often used in single-wall designs where condensation management is more challenging.
Limited stretch can make pitch precision more important.
Weight savings may be less meaningful if you add extra stakes, a groundsheet, repair materials, or optional components.
Decision Context:
Consider a 1-person DCF tent if shelter weight and low water absorption are high priorities, and if you already have the skills to manage site selection, pitch quality, and condensation. Be more cautious if you are buying your first ultralight shelter, frequently camp on abrasive ground, or need the lowest-cost path to a lighter shelter system.
The shelters below represent different ways cottage manufacturers apply DCF: minimum-weight solo tents, more structured pyramid designs, and shelters that trade a few extra ounces for more usable volume or pitch stability.
The Zpacks Plex Solo Tent is a single-person DCF trekking-pole shelter with a single 52 in (132 cm) pole pitch, overlapping zipperless storm doors, integrated bathtub floor, perimeter insect netting, and material options listed from 12.3 oz / 348 g.
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Mid 1 is a single-person single-wall DCF pyramid-style tent with a single trekking-pole pitch, zippered vestibule door, No-See-Um mesh internal door, 6 in DCF 0.96 bathtub floor, dual peak vents, and 16 oz weight.
The Tarptent Aeon Li is a single-person single-wall DCF trekking-pole tent with PitchLoc strut-supported rear corners, a top strut for headroom and door rollback, integrated 0.96 DCF floor, no-see-um mesh, six-stake pitch, and 16.85 oz / 478 g minimum weight.
The Zpacks Pivot Solo Tent is a single-person DCF trekking-pole shelter with a 52 in front pole and pivoted 32 in rear pole, zippered storm doors, integrated bathtub floor, perimeter insect netting, peak vents, and 15.9 oz / 450 g weight.
The Durston X-Mid Pro 1 is a single-person hybrid single-wall DCF trekking-pole tent with patented X-Mid geometry, twin offset poles, dual doors and vestibules, a tensioned bathtub floor, 0.55 DCF canopy, optional floor fabrics, and a listed tent weight from 15.5 oz / 440 g.
Silnylon and silpoly tents occupy the practical middle ground in the cottage-shelter market. They are usually heavier than DCF shelters, but they cost less, pack smaller, tolerate abrasion better in many use cases, and often provide a more forgiving ownership experience. For many backpackers, that tradeoff is more rational than paying a premium for minimum shelter weight.
Silnylon and silpoly are both coated woven fabrics, but they behave differently. Silnylon is known for strength, packability, and a long history in lightweight shelters, but it can absorb water and stretch when wet, which may require retensioning during rain. Silpoly absorbs less water and generally sags less in wet conditions, making it attractive for humid environments and long periods of precipitation. Fabric quality, coating, denier, reinforcement design, and shelter geometry still mean more than the generic material label.
Decision Notes: 1P Silnylon & Silpoly Tents
Advantages:
Lower cost than most DCF shelters.
Usually pack smaller and more easily than DCF shelters.
Often more abrasion-tolerant than ultralight DCF in floors and high-wear areas.
More forgiving fabric stretch can make pitching less exacting.
Silpoly absorbs less water and usually sags less than silnylon in wet conditions.
A practical option for hikers who want cottage shelter design without DCF pricing.
Limitations:
Usually heavier than comparable DCF shelters.
Silnylon can stretch and sag when wet, requiring retensioning.
Coatings, seam construction, and fabric quality vary widely between manufacturers.
Some ultralight woven fabrics still require careful campsite selection and floor protection.
May absorb more water and dry more slowly than DCF after sustained rain.
Weight savings over mainstream tents may be modest once stakes, guylines, and optional components are included.
Decision Context
Consider a 1-person silnylon or silpoly tent if you want a lighter, more specialized shelter but do not need the lowest possible weight or the cost of DCF. Silpoly is especially worth considering for wet or humid environments where reduced sag and lower water absorption are important. Silnylon remains relevant where strength, packability, and proven long-term shelter performance are priorities.
The Gossamer Gear The One is a single-wall, non-freestanding one-person tent that pitches with two 125 cm trekking poles and uses 10D nylon ripstop SIL/PU fabric, factory-taped seams, a bathtub floor, dual side-entry doors, a rollable vestibule, and a listed weight of 17.7 oz (503 g).
The Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo is a single-wall, one-person side-entry tent with a single 49-inch pole pitch, six-stake setup, 20D silicone-coated polyester canopy, 40D silicone-coated polyester floor, screened door, high vent, 8.5 sq ft vestibule, and listed weight of 26 oz (740 g).
The SlingFin SplitWing Shelter Bundle is a modular end-entry A-frame shelter system with a trekking-pole tarp, mesh body, and removable enclosed vestibule, using 10D Nylon 66 Ripstop Sil/Sil fabric, a 20D PE 1800 mm floor, six-stake pitch, and 21 oz (595 g) weight without stakes.
Tarptent ProTrek is a one-person trekking pole shelter with a 20D silicone-coated polyester fly, 30D silicone-coated nylon floor, 15D no-see-um mesh, dual front and side entry options, rear roll-up venting, YKK Aquaguard zippers, and 23.5 oz (667 g) minimum weight.
Two-person cottage tents are often less about luxury and more about shared system efficiency. For partners, a slightly heavier shelter can reduce total carried weight compared to two solo shelters while improving storm management, warmth, and livability. For solo hikers, a 2-person shelter can provide meaningful space for wet gear, large sleeping pads, long storm delays, or trips where recovery matters more than minimum shelter weight.
Most 2-person cottage tents still involve tradeoffs. Many use trekking poles instead of dedicated poles, which reduces carried weight but increases dependence on pitch quality, stake placement, and campsite compatibility. Interior dimensions also matter more than the “2-person” label. Some designs fit two wide pads comfortably; others are better understood as spacious solo shelters or tight partner shelters.
Decision Notes: 2P Tents
Advantages
Can be more weight-efficient than carrying two separate solo shelters.
Provides more interior margin for partners, wet gear, larger pads, or storm delays.
Often improves livability with only a modest weight increase over some 1-person shelters.
Trekking-pole designs reduce the need for dedicated tent poles.
Available in DCF, silpoly, and silnylon options across a range of price and durability profiles.
Can be a practical choice for solo hikers who value recovery, space, and gear management over minimum shelter weight.
Limitations
“2-person” capacity varies widely; floor width, wall slope, and vestibule geometry matter more than the label.
Larger footprints can make campsite selection harder in dense forests, alpine terrain, or heavily used campsites.
Trekking-pole designs may be less convenient on platforms, rock, sand, or compacted ground.
Weight savings may shrink after adding stakes, guylines, inner tents, groundsheets, or optional poles.
More interior space can increase exposure to condensation (colder interior and walls) if ventilation and site selection are poor.
Decision Context
Consider a 2-person cottage tent if you regularly travel with a partner, want more storm-day livability, or need extra space for gear management without moving to a heavier mainstream shelter. Be more cautious if you usually camp in tight sites, rely on tent platforms, or assume that any “2-person” shelter will comfortably fit two users and their gear.
The Zpacks Duplex Classic is a two-person single-wall DCF trekking-pole tent with dual 48 in pole support, side-entry layout, four independently operable storm doors, rectangular bathtub floor, taped seams, and 28.1 sq ft of floor area at 17.9 oz (507 g).
The Zpacks Duplex Lite is a two-person single-wall DCF trekking-pole tent with dual 48 in pole support, two doors, two vestibules, taped seams, 0.55 oz/sqyd canopy fabric, 0.75 oz/sqyd floor fabric, and a 25 sq ft floor at 14.9 oz (423 g).
Gossamer Gear The Two is a two-person single-wall trekking-pole tent with dual 125 cm pole support, side-entry layout, dual vestibules, tapered 10D nylon ripstop SIL/PU floor, taped seams, and 26.25 sq ft floor area at 23.5 oz (667 g).
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2P is a two-person single-wall DCF trekking-pole tent with dual 125 cm pole support, side-entry layout, dual zippered vestibule doors, opposing mesh doors, taped seams, 3-D sidewalls, and 28 sq ft floor area at 22 oz (624 g).
Floorless tarps represent the pinnacle of minimalism in ultralight shelter design. They offer superior versatility, allowing hikers to create custom configurations based on terrain and weather conditions. With options ranging from basic rectangular tarps to advanced catenary-cut designs, these shelters provide high levels of ventilation while keeping weight low. Ideal for those who want maximum flexibility in their shelter system.
The SlingFin NFT is a 9.5' x 10' flat tarp made from ultralight yet highly tear-resistant 10D Nylon 66 ripstop sil/sil fabric, which offers superior tensile strength and long-term UV resistance compared to standard nylons, silpoly, and DCF. Subtle catenary curves along the long edges ensure a taut A-frame pitch, while the flat ridgeline allows for versatile configurations. Weight: 12.3 oz (349g). Packed size: 4" x 4" x 9".
Weighing approximately 10.2 oz (290 g) for the 8x10-foot size, the Etowah Outfitters Ultra TNT Tarp is constructed from UltraTNT laminate fabric by Challenge Sailcloth. This material features an enhanced fiber grid with Ultra yarns inserted at 0, 45, and -45 degrees, laminated between two layers of 0.25 mil polyester (PET) film, providing high tear-resistance in a dimensionally stable and waterproof fabric. Performance is comparable to DCF at lower cost. 16 perimeter tie-outs, 3 center seam tie-outs, 1 pull-out centered on each panel.
Weight: 10.2 oz (290 g) for the 8x10 ft (2.4x3.0 m) tarp.
Weighing approximately 7.9 oz (224 g), the SlingFin SplitWing UL Tarp is constructed from 10D Nylon 66 Ripstop Sil/Sil (double-sided coating) fabric, which provides greater tear resistance, UV stability, and long-term waterproofing than standard silnylon, making it one of the most durable ultralight tarps in its weight class. The tarp features an enclosed foot area to reduce drafts, front "wings" for adjustable pitching between 105–120 cm, and 20D Nylon Ripstop PE 1800mm reinforcements at high-stress points for increased durability. Includes 9 perimeter stakeout loops and 2 side guyout points for versatile pitching options. Also available as a modular tent system at Garage Grown Gear and Slingfin.
Weight: 7.9 oz (224 g) for the tarp alone; 10.3 oz (292 g) including 6 DAC J-stakes.
Dimensions: Floor length: 90 inches (229 cm); width: 60–72 inches (152–183 cm) at the head, 36 inches (91 cm) at the foot; peak height: 41–47 inches (104–119 cm) at the head, 18 inches (46 cm) at the foot.
Weighing approximately 9.7 oz (275 g), the Gossamer Gear Twinn Tarp is constructed from 10D high-tenacity nylon with a blended silicone/polyurethane coating. A catenary cut ridgeline limits pitch options, but ensures a taut, easy setup using two trekking poles, providing about 47 square feet (4.4 m²) of coverage: factory-taped seams, bug net loops at each end, and two side wall tie-out points.
Weight: 9.7 oz (275 g).
Materials: Canopy - 10D Nylon SIL/PU fabric, waterproof to at least 1800 mm; Guylines - 1.8 mm reflective nylon sheath with 1 mm Dyneema core; Tensioners - ITW Lineloc 3 on all main tie-outs.
Dimensions: Ridgeline length: 122 inches (310 cm); wall length at ground: 107 inches (272 cm); front width: 116 inches (294 cm) total (58 inches per side); rear width: 84 inches (213 cm) total (42 inches per side); peak height for standard setup: 44 inches (112 cm).
Weighing approximately 9.0 oz (255 g) for the 8'6" square size, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Flat Tarp is designed for versatile pitching configurations. Catenary ridgelines are beginner-friendly, while flat tarps provide more versatility for experienced users. The tarp features fully bonded, stitchless ridgeline seams and 16 perimeter tie-outs reinforced with line locks, allowing for a taut and customizable setup. Additional tie-outs are positioned at the center and at one-third intervals along the interior body, providing numerous options for securing the tarp in various configurations. Two sewn-in D-rings under the ridgeline facilitate the attachment of inner nests or bivy systems.
Weight: 9.0 oz (255 g) for the 8'6" x 8'6" tarp; 10.9 oz (309 g) for the 8' x 10' tarp.
Dyneema tarp for one to two people with a biosourced Dyneema Composite Fabric canopy, 20 anchoring points, removable guylines, PFAS-free 15,000 mm waterproofing, 106.3 x 98.4 in (270 x 250 cm) dimensions, and a 5.8 oz (165 g) minimum weight.
Pyramid shelters provide a strong and weather-resistant design that balances ultralight minimalism with all-season capability. These shelters use a single center pole for setup, creating a stable structure that sheds wind and snow effectively. Often used with bivy sacks or inner nests for additional bug protection, pyramids appeal to hikers interested in a simple but highly performant backcountry shelter.
Weighing approximately 5.5 oz (156 g), the Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp is one of the lightest full-perimeter solo shelters available. The tarp features a hexagonal shape with a single trekking pole setup at a peak height of 48 inches (122 cm). Overlapping storm doors can be opened or closed independently, allowing for adjustable ventilation and weather protection without the use of zippers. The tarp includes eight perimeter tie-outs.
The Gossamer Gear DCF Whisper is an ultralight, floorless, side-entry shelter that weighs about 10 ounces. For its weight, it provides a high level of livability (interior floor space and livable volume), as well as full-perimeter insect netting that can be combined with an overlapping ground cloth for full bug protection.
19.1 oz (542 g).Weighing approximately 19.1 oz (542 g), the Hyperlite Mountain Gear UltaMid 2 is a four-season, two-person ultralight pyramid shelter that emphasizes durability and weather protection. The fully seam-sealed canopy features a single-pole pyramid design, providing a peak height of 64 inches (162.6 cm) and a floor area of 63 sq ft (5.85 m²), accommodating two people plus gear. The shelter includes eight reinforced perimeter tie-outs with line locks, four center panel tie-outs, and a top cone tie-out for versatile pitching options. Dual peak vents with no-see-um mesh allow for ventilation while keeping insects out. The UltaMid 2 can be pitched using adjustable trekking poles, a dedicated center pole, or suspended from an overhead point. Optional accessories, such as mesh inserts with or without a Dyneema floor, are available separately to enhance bug protection and floor coverage.
Weighing approximately 10 oz (284 g), the Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape doubles as full-coverage rain gear. Constructed from 15D silicone-coated nylon, it provides 35 ft² (3.25 m²) of coverage and features a full zippered entrance, adjustable vestibule height for ventilation, and side snaps to shorten the sides when worn as rain gear. Its unique design ensures 360-degree protection, making it the only poncho-style tarp to offer complete coverage. The Gatewood Cape requires six stakes for setup (not included) and can be paired with the Serenity NetTent for added bug protection.
Weight: 10 oz (284 g)
Materials: Canopy - 15D silicone-coated nylon.
Dimensions: Coverage area: 35 ft² (3.25 m²); Pack size: 10" x 8" x 1.5" (25.4 x 20.3 x 3.8 cm)
At 5.6 oz (160 g), the Ounce Design 1-Person Shelter is a minimalist solo shelter. It features a trapezoidal shape that saves fabric weight vs. square, hexagonal, or rectangular designs. It sets up with a single trekking pole (110 cm or higher) and requires only four stakes, though a fifth stake can be used to maximize interior space. Fully bonded construction.
One of the core skills of ultralight backpacking is understanding how tent stakes and guylines are used to properly secure ultralight shelters in stormy weather. From ultralight titanium stakes to thin guyline cordage, small details can make a big difference in tent stability and ease of use.
The Teragon Pioneer 1 tent stake addresses the need to minimize stake weight while maintaining mechanical robustness by using a 150 mm, 5.1 g, 3D-printed titanium monolithic Y-beam. It adds a large flat head, narrow-neck/wide-head guyline interface, and rock-hammer-tolerant titanium construction in an individually sold, patent-pending design.
The Six Moon Designs Tyvek Footprint is a durable ground cloth weighing approximately 4.5 to 7 ounces, designed to protect shelter floors from abrasion. It softens with washing and is available in two sizes. Better durability but more weight than polycryo.
The Allmansright Hölster Stake Sack is an ultralight, durable, and water-resistant storage solution for tent stakes. Weighing approximately 4 grams, it features a wide opening with pull tabs for easy access, even while wearing gloves. The draw cord is made with Dyneema, and the seams are taped to prevent stakes from poking through. The small Hölster can carry a few large MSR Ground Hog tent stakes.
The Lawson Equipment Reflective Glowire Cord addresses nighttime guyline visibility and low-stretch tent/tarp anchoring by providing a highly reflective cord purpose-built for guying tents, tarps, and shelters. Its kernmantle build combines an UltraFuzion polyester/UHMWPE jacket, ultra-high-tenacity parallel-plied polyester core, 3M Scotchlite tracers, 2–5 mm diameters, and 225–550 lb break strengths.
The Suluk46 Atani Titanium Tent Stakes are ultralight, flat-profile stakes available in 6-inch (5 grams) and 8-inch (9 grams) lengths, designed for optimal strength-to-weight performance.The wide upper section withstands significant guy-line forces, while the sharp, thin lower section facilitates penetration into hard ground.An upper indentation secures the guy-line loop, and the flat design prevents rotation.The 8-inch stakes include reflective tie loops for enhanced low-light visibility.
Bivy sacks are an alternative to traditional tents, providing weather protection in a compact and minimalist package (if they are waterproof). Non-waterproof bivy sacks pair well with tarps or can be used on their own in dry conditions. Modern bivy designs incorporate breathable fabrics to manage condensation while still offering a decent level of protection from wind, rain, spindrift, and insects.
The Katabatic Gear Bristlecone Bivy Sack is water-resistant and breathable and makes an ideal companion for warmer conditions when paired with a tarp. Water-resistant enough to keep dew at bay for sleeping under the stars in mild weather.
The Samaya NANO BIVY is a 235g ultralight bivy sack featuring Dyneema Composite Fabric floor (20,000mm waterproofing) and 3-layer Nanovent membrane walls (10,000mm waterproofing, 40,000g/m²/24h breathability). It offers 4-season protection with fully taped seams and a water-repellent YKK AquaGuard zipper, designed for minimalist mountaineering and emergency shelter during alpine races.
Ultralight quilts offer a high level of warmth-to-weight efficiency. High-fill-power down insulation, combined with ultralight shell fabrics, creates packable, warm options for three-season and even winter backpacking. Quilts provide versatility and weight savings for those who prioritize modular sleep setups and understand the skills required to mitigate drafts.
Ultralight down quilt with zippered drawstring footbox, neck draft collar, interior pad-attachment straps, mixed horizontal/vertical boxed baffles, 10D nylon taffeta shell and lining, 850 fill duck down, RDS-certified, PFAS-free, in multiple lengths/ratings at about 22–28.6 oz (625–810 g).
The Enlightened Equipment Revelation line of sleeping quilts is optimized for versatility with zippered foot boxes that balance heat retention with ventilation. Available as stock or customizable products, the user can spec fabrics, insulation type and amount, sizing, and more:
The Enlightened Equipment Enigma line of sleeping quilts is optimized for maximum warmth-to-weight ratio with sewn-closed foot boxes for heat retention and longitudinal baffles to minimize down shifting. Available as stock or customizable products, the user can spec fabrics, insulation type and amount, sizing, and more:
The Zpacks Classic Sleeping Bag addresses backpacking sleep-system weight and thermal efficiency by combining a ¾-length underside zipper with a baffled down build using 900 fill power RDS Muscovy duck down (30% overstuffed), vertical upper-body baffles, rectangular footbox, and 0.51 oz/sqyd Ventum ripstop nylon shell/liner with PFAS-free C0 DWR, across 30/20/10°F ratings and multiple girths/lengths.
For a 900-fp quilt that can be layed flat or buttoned up into a hoodless mummy, the El Coyote Alphalite is one of the most cost-effective ultralight quilts available.
Katabatic Gear Flex 40°F is a blanket-style down quilt with a zippered foot box, down-filled collar, pad attachment system, continuous baffles, internal stash pocket, Pertex Quantum Eco Ripstop shell, Pertex Quantum Taffeta liner, and 900 fill power ExpeDRY goose down.
The Katabatic Gear Flex 22°F Quilt offers versatile, lightweight insulation with advanced down fill, designed to provide warmth and comfort in cold conditions while allowing for customizable fit and ventilation. Its innovative design adapts to different sleeping positions, making it ideal for backcountry adventurers seeking performance and flexibility.
The Zenbivy Ultralight Quilt features 900 fill power water-resistant goose down, a 10D shell, and a patent-pending adjustable footbox system for temp control. It is available in temperature ratings of 10°F (-12°C) and 25°F (-4°C). The quilt includes color-coded clip closures for secure attachment to the Zenbivy ultralight sheet (see the Ultralight Sheet at Garage Grown Gear or Zenbivy), creating a draft-free sleep system.
Cumulus Quilt 150 is a 48°F (9°C comfort) down quilt with a semi-trapezoidal shape, stitched-through chambers, short zipper footbox, neck snap, elastic pad straps, Toray Airtastic 7D ripstop nylon shell and liner, and 900 FP Polish goose down insulation.
The Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag addresses backpacking sleep-system warmth control and configurability by combining a full-perimeter zipper with a lightweight baffled down build. It uses 900 fill power RDS Muscovy duck down overstuffed 30% in vertical, non-sewn-through baffles, 0.51 oz/sqyd Ventum shell/liner with PFAS-free C0 DWR, and a full-length two-way side zipper wrapping the footbox for blanket or vented use; 30/20/10°F versions span multiple girths/lengths at 15.7–28.9 oz including a roll-top dry bag.
The Magic 125 trades features like a zip and hood to achieve ultra-light performance (~270 g) with 125 g of 850 FP Polish goose down and a minimalist Toray/Pertex shell. Ideal for warm weather or as a liner for your main bag.
The lightest fully-baffled down sleeping bag available, the Flylite is a great choice if you aren't quite ready to bite the bullet on a quilt but still need a warm bag for mild summer and fringe-season conditions.
A high amount of down fill, combined with premium ultralight fabrics, warmth-retention features (insulated zipper guard, draft collar), and a decades-long legacy of sleeping bag design, the Alpinlite represents 3-season versatilty and temperature rating accuracy as well as any product on the market.
The Magnet Designs Alpha Sleeping Bag Liner addresses the need to extend a sleep system’s comfort range with minimal bulk with this Polartec Alpha Direct 60 gsm insulating layer. Unlike silk or thin polyester knit liners, the Alpha Liner adds 6 to 8 °F of comfort for 7–8 oz in a ~4 x 4 x 6 inch packed size.
The Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag addresses backpacking sleep-system warmth control and configurability by combining a full-perimeter zipper with a lightweight baffled down build. It uses 900 fill power RDS Muscovy duck down overstuffed 30% in vertical, non-sewn-through baffles, 0.51 oz/sqyd Ventum shell/liner with PFAS-free C0 DWR, and a full-length two-way side zipper wrapping the footbox for blanket or vented use; 30/20/10°F versions span multiple girths/lengths at 15.7–28.9 oz including a roll-top dry bag.
A good night’s sleep starts with a reliable sleeping pad. Ultralight backpackers often opt for inflatable or closed-cell foam pads that balance warmth, comfort, and weight. Advances in materials and construction have led to improved R-values without increasing (too much) weight, ensuring that even the lightest pads provide sufficient insulation for cooler conditions. Thin foam pads can be used as part of a two-pad system in cold temperatures or to protect the inflatable from sharp objects on the ground.
The NEMO Tensor Extreme Conditions Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad is a 1-person insulated air pad with Apex baffle construction, 4 floating Thermal Mirror film layers, 20-denier nylon top, 40-denier nylon bottom, 3.5 in. thickness, 8.5 R-value, Laylow valve, and 1 lb. 2 oz. Regular weight.
The NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad is a 1-person insulated air pad with Spaceframe baffles, two suspended Thermal Mirror film layers, 20-denier nylon top, 40-denier nylon bottom, 3.5 in. thickness, 5.4 R-value, Laylow valve, and 14.1 oz. minimum weight.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT is a 1-person mummy air sleeping pad with Triangular Core Matrix construction, ThermaCapture insulation, 3 in. thickness, 4.5 R-value, WingLock valve, multiple size options, and a listed Regular weight of 13 oz.
The NEMO Tensor Elite Mummy Sleeping Pad is an insulated mummy air pad with Apex baffle construction, 10D Cordura nylon ripstop fabric, single-layer Thermal Mirror film insulation, 3 in. thickness, 2.4 R-value, Laylow valve, and 8.5 oz / 240 g Regular Mummy minimum weight.
The Gossamer Gear Thinlight Foam Pad is a closed-cell foam pad available in 1/8" thickness, with an estimated R-value of 0.5. Use it for protection and additional insulation from cold ground when paired with an inflatable pad, or keep it handy for on-trail and in-camp lounging.
Pad pumps eliminate the need for moisture-laden breath inflation, preserving the longevity of insulated pads (while preventing cheek fatigue). Ultralight inflatable or stuffable pillows offer ergonomic support without adding much bulk or weight to a pack and can improve rest and recovery by helping position your body in a more rested position after a long day of hiking.
The Alpenblow Micro Inflator is an ultralight, 8-gram (0.28 oz) device that inflates sleeping pads in approximately three minutes, drawing minimal power (18 mAh at 5V) from USB-C devices such as smartphones or power banks. Operating at a noise level of 42 dBA, it includes multiple nozzles compatible with Therm-a-Rest (WingLock), NEMO (Laylow), Big Agnes, Sea-to-Summit, and EXPED sleeping pad valves.
Save your breath, and leave the bulk of an inflation bag at home. One of the few pumps that actually works well and is still very light, with a decent battery life. You'll get 15 to 25 mattress inflations on a single charge if you use a full-sized mattress.
The Pillow Strap is a stretchy nylon/spandex pillowcase that secures inflatable camping pillows or clothing to sleeping pads using an adjustable elastic strap. It accommodates various pillow sizes and most rectangular or slightly curved sleeping pads, allowing movement while sleeping and enhancing comfort with layered materials.
The Cloud 9 UL Pillow features TPU material for durability and comfort, silicone beads to prevent sliding, a quick-adjust valve for personalized inflation, and a shock cord attachment system for secure placement on sleeping pads. Weighing 3.6 oz (101g), it includes a stuff sack and is field-repairable for long-term backcountry use.
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Stuff Sack Pillow is a dual-purpose storage sack and camp pillow weighing approximately 1.7 ounces (48 grams). Constructed from Dyneema Composite Fabric and soft microfleece, it features a reversible design - during the day, it serves as a protective storage sack; at night, it transforms into a pillow by stuffing it with clothing.
Closed-cell EVA foam sit pad that folds into a compact block for packing and opens to 13.25 x 10.25 x 0.25 in (33.7 x 26 x 0.6 cm), made from PFAS-free closed-cell cross-linked EVA polyolefin foam and weighing 1.7 oz (49 g).
The Antimatter Chair by No Matter Products weighs 6.7 ounces (189 grams) without its stuff sack. It supports up to 250 pounds and is constructed from 70-denier ripstop nylon with a DWR coating and a polyurethane-coated base layer. The frame utilizes Easton 6.3 carbon fiber poles for structural support.
Internal frame packs provide structure and support for carrying heavier loads. Many ultralight internal frame packs incorporate carbon fiber or aluminum stays to distribute weight effectively, making them more appropriate than frameless packs for extended trips with food and gear weight considerations.
The Daily Dose 55L addresses the challenges of precisely fitting a pack by combining three torso ranges (16 to 24 in) with four interchangeable hip belt sizes and three shoulder strap sizes around an adjustable torso length; it adds ULTRA 200X/400X and UltraGrid fabrics, Ultra Stretch UHMWPE/nylon 6-6/Lycra front pocket, dual 1 L side pockets with one-handed cord locks, top Y-strap and bottom utility strap, ice axe loops, daisy chains, internal zip “secret” pocket, and 41–46 oz weights across sizes. Designed for load-carrying comfort up to 35+ lbs.
Now with a new pivot hip belt system, customizable belt options, and more functional load lifters. 60L capacity, S-curve harness, large external stretch mesh pocket, trekking pole attachments, Robic fabrics (100D and 210D). 30 lb comfortable load carrying capacity.
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound is an ultralight backpack designed for long-distance hiking, with large dual-entry front and side pockets. The pack utilizes a single aluminum stay for support, a removable padded hip belt, and a roll-top closure system with removable side compression straps. Constructed from durable, waterproof materials, it is designed to carry loads up to 40 pounds and is available in 40 liter and 55 liter options, in white or black:
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider is an ultralight backpack available in 40L, 55L, and 70L capacities. It features a roll-top closure, three external mesh pockets for gear drying and visibility, and removable, contoured aluminum stays for support. The pack is constructed from Dyneema Composite Fabrics. Designed to carry loads up to 40 lbs.
ULA Equipment Circuit SV is a 48 L internal frame backpack made with an Ultra 200X body and UltraStretch mesh pockets, with removable hip belt, roll-top closure, Y-strap compression, front mesh pocket, side pockets, hipbelt pockets, and listed weights from 33 oz (936 g) to 36 oz (1,021 g).
Frameless packs cater to the most dedicated ultralight hikers, offering significant weight savings by eliminating rigid frame components. These packs rely on efficient load distribution and a disciplined (ultralight) gear system to maintain comfort and balance on long treks. Ideal for those with an already dialed-in ultralight kit or hikers with shoulder and neck muscles adapted to carrying more weight on their shoulders.
Pa’lante Packs V2 is a frameless roll-top backpack with 31 L or 37 L internal volume, integrated stashable webbing hip belt, shoulder strap pockets, bottom stash pocket, side pockets, front Ultra mesh pocket, and 210D UHMWPE Gridstop or 200D Ultraweave body fabric.
The Pa'lante Joey Pack is a 24L ultralight backpack with a vest-style harness, designed for fastpacking. It features 210D UHMWPE gridstop material, flexible roll-top closure, side compression straps, large side pockets, and stretchy front mesh pocket. The pack weighs 420g and includes multiple attachment points for versatility.
The Symbiosis Aspen is a 38L frameless backpack for women engineered to accommodate various bust sizes, featuring uniquely contoured S-curve shoulder straps and a three-point adjustable sternum strap to adjust fit and load distribution. Constructed from 420D Extreema fabric, it integrates a bottom stash pocket for quick access and a roll-top closure with a Y-strap for external gear carry. At 1 lb 9 oz (708 g) with a 20 lb load limit, it optimizes comfort and weight distribution in a way rarely addressed in ultralight pack design.
The LiteAF Ultra 40L Curve Full Suspension Backpack is an ultralight pack weighing approximately 25 to 34 ounces, depending on size and options. It features a 40-liter main compartment with an additional 15+ liters of external pockets, removable aluminum support stays, and a fully padded, removable hip belt. The pack is designed to comfortably carry around 25 pounds.
The Gossamer Gear Kumo 36 Superlight Backpack is a frameless pack weighing approximately 20.5 ounces (581 grams) in size medium. It features a 36-liter capacity, removable fast belt, SitLight pad, and multiple stretch-mesh pockets for gear organization. The pack is designed to carry loads up to 25 pounds.
Protecting food from wildlife is a critical aspect of responsible backpacking and ecosystem stewardship. Whether using odor-proof bags, animal-resistant soft-sided sewn goods, or bear canisters, choosing the right storage solution is essential for both safety and compliance with wilderness regulations.
Backpacking with confidence is challenging when food isn't securely stored from wildlife. Hanging food is time-consuming and can be complicated. Carrying a bear canister is heavy and bulky. The Ultralight Food Locker by Adotec offers peace of mind with its certified bear-resistant design, keeping your food safe and secure.
Adotec Scent Seal Food Bag is a roll-top food storage and hanging bag made from clear Capran layered polymer films, available in 9 L, 14 L, and 20 L sizes, with listed weights from 1.8 oz (52 g) to 2.4 oz (67 g).
The Nylofume Pack Liner is a waterproof, odor-resistant nylon polymer bag weighing 0.91 oz (25.9 g). With a 52L capacity, it protects gear from moisture and odors. The clear material allows easy content visibility. It's designed for durability and can be trimmed to fit various pack sizes. Use two (inverted to each other) inside an Ursack or bear canister to hide your food from bears (by containing odors).
LOKSAK OPSAK Odor-Proof Bags are resealable storage bags designed to contain odors and prevent air and micro-organism transfer. Made from FDA and NSF-approved food-safe materials, they are reusable, recyclable, and available in multiple sizes. Manufactured in the USA.
The Ursack Allmitey is a bear-resistant food sack designed to protect food from bears and small critters. It is made from ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWP) fabric laminated lined with Kevlar, providing puncture resistance. The sack features a drawstring closure with a 6-foot high-tensile rope and is water-resistant.
BearVault offers a range of bear-resistant food canisters designed for backpackers and hikers, varying in capacity and weight to suit different trip lengths:
BV ONE: Expandable/collapsible volume: 282 to 505 cubic inches (4.6 to 8.3 L), 2.0 lbs (0.91 kg), 5.6 to 8.5 inches (height) x 9.9 inches (dia).
BV500-Journey: 700 cubic inches (11.5 L), 2 lbs 9 oz (1.16 kg), 12.7 inches (height) x 8.7 inches (dia).
BV475-Trek: 565 cubic inches (9.3 L), 2 lbs 4 oz (1.03 kg), 10.5 inches (height) x 8.7 inches (dia).
BV450-Jaunt: 440 cubic inches (7.2 L), 2 lbs 1 oz (940 g), 8.3 inches (height) x 8.7 inches (dia).
BV425-Sprint: 305 cubic inches (5 L), 1 lb 12 oz (800 g), 6 inches (height) x 8.7 inches (dia).
BearVault canisters are constructed from durable polycarbonate material, feature transparent walls for easy content visibility, and have a wide opening with a screw-on lid that doesn't require tools to operate. They are certified bear-resistant by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC).
Carbon/Kevlar Grubcan is a bearproof food container made from carbon and Kevlar, with a patented latching system, rippled cylindrical profile, IGBC certification, WMI approval, 4.5 L and 6.6 L capacities, and listed weights of 22 oz (624 g) or 24 oz (680 g).
The Wave Grubcan's unique feature is its (patented) latching lid which makes it easier to open than other designs. Polycarbonate construction. A rippled design can be secured to the outside of a pack with straps. 7.5 x 13.5 inches x 6.6L capacity. IGBC approved.
Internal pouches, pods, and compression sacks help maximize pack space and accessibility. Smart organization leads to faster setup, efficient packing, and an overall smoother backcountry experience.
The UltraliteSacks Ultralight Zippered Bear Bag is a food storage dry bag made from UltraTX fabric with a waterproof YKK zipper. Available in Regular (17"x11"x3", 1.4 oz) and Large (17"x17"x6", 2.4 oz), it features a boxed bottom, nylon webbing, and dual D-rings. Not bear- or odor-proof - this is for bear bag hanging.
The Hartford Gear Co. Trail Pouch is an ultralight, water-resistant organizer made from Dyneema Composite Fabric or Ultra 100X, with taped seams and a YKK #3 Uretek zipper. Available in Small (4.25"x3.25"), Medium (6"x4"), and Large (8.25"x5.25"), weighing 0.2-0.3 oz.
Vaucluse Gear manufactures attachable ventilation frames that easily fit on your favorite backpack to increase airflow. Their gear is designed to attach to backpacks (framed or frameless) in seconds and upgrade airflow, reduce back heat, and increase comfort. Made in the USA.
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Side Entry Pod is an ultralight storage solution weighing approximately 1.4 to 1.56 ounces, depending on size. It features a roll-top closure and is available in 8L, 10L, 12L, and 15L capacities. Designed to fit 40L, 55L, and 70L packs, it offers efficient organization for compressible gear.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear's Zippys are ultralight organizational pouches available in 1L, 2L, and 3L volumes. Constructed with waterproof Dyneema Composite Fabric and featuring a waterproof zipper, they offer moisture protection for gear. The zippered closure enables quick access, while a screenprinted label area allows for content identification.
The Allmansright Krafs Stuff Sack (S) is a 5g ultralight, water-resistant pouch made from Dyneema® Composite Fabric, featuring an innovative one-handed closure system—ideal for organizing small essentials like first aid kits, hygiene items, or electronics on the trail.
Silnylon drawstring stuff sack with a round bottom and drawstring closure, available in 1 L, 2.5 L, 6.5 L, and 10 L sizes with listed weights from 0.25 oz (7 g) to 0.5 oz (14.2 g).
Dyneema Composite Fabric poop kit pouch made from custom printed 1.0 oz DCF, with a YKK #3 Uretek zipper and YKK zipper sliders, available in Regular, Tall, and Wide sizes with listed weights from 0.3 oz (9 g) to 0.4 oz (11 g).
Backcountry Exposure Mesa Food Bag is a zippered food storage bag available in 4.5 L and 6.5 L sizes, made from Challenge Ultra TX 70 or UltraGrid with a webbing grab handle, #5 watertight coil zipper, pull tabs, and PFAS-free materials.
Gossamer Gear Clear Waterproof Pack Liners are two clear pack liner bags made from PolyEarthylene biobased polyolefin, each measuring 38 in x 13 in x 8 in (96.5 cm x 33 cm x 20.3 cm) and weighing 1.4 oz (40 g).
Gossamer Gear Sidequest is a 4 L crossbody bag made with Riptide Ripstop, 100D recycled Robic nylon, UHMWPE stretch mesh, and PFAS-free materials, with front and back pockets, interior mesh organization, a Lineloc adjustment system, and 3.8 oz (108 g) weight.
Symbiosis Gear Huckleberry is a 1.31 L pouch made from 420D Extreema, with a slide-through sleeve for hip belts up to 2 in (5 cm), removable waistbelt, interior mesh pocket, key hook, and 1.6 oz (45 g) pouch weight.
The Chicken Tramper Gear Water Bottle Sleeve is an ultralight mesh holder that attaches to backpack straps, providing easy access to hydration. It features adjustable attachments, a shock cord for bottle security, and a stiff X-Pac rim for one-handed use. Available in various sizes to accommodate different bottle types.
There are many fanny packs out there, but this one is the most versatile—you can wear it traditionally, cross-body, or thread it through your chest or hip straps.
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Camera Pod is a lightweight, weatherproof camera case made with Dyneema Composite Fabrics. It features 1/4" closed-cell foam padding, a water-resistant zipper, and eight attachment points for versatile carrying options. Available in two sizes, it's designed to protect mirrorless and DSLR cameras during outdoor activities.
The Gossamer Gear Shoulder Strap Pocket is a lightweight, zip‑closure pouch with soft interior lining, foam structure, and a front mesh pocket—securely attaches via one vertical and two horizontal straps to take quick-access essentials (phones, snacks, etc.) on the trail.
HikeLight Dyneema Vestibule Mat is a 3 ft x 2 ft (91 cm x 61 cm) ground sheet made from 0.67 oz/yd Dyneema Composite Fabric, with DCF corner loops, 1/16 in black shock cord, and a listed weight of 0.7 oz (20 g).
Gossamer Gear Pack Jacket is a pack cover for most 40 L to 60 L packs, made from recycled 20D nylon mini ripstop with a silicone face coating and durable UTS back coating, with a listed weight of 2.9 oz (82.2 g).
MooseTrack Packs Dyneema Hooded Half-Poncho is a 2.9 oz (82 g) hooded half-poncho made from 1.0 oz Dyneema Composite Fabric CT2K.18, with a half zip, hood cinches, Velcro edge tabs, elastic Velcro extenders, and taped construction.
Ultralight insulation layers leverage high-loft synthetic or down materials to maximize warmth at minimal weight. These layers provide essential warmth without unnecessary bulk, whether using Alpha Direct, synthetic Apex insulation, or high-fill power down.
Polartec Alpha Direct fleece hooded midlayer with fitted hood and paracord drawcord, constructed from open-knit synthetic fleece in 60, 90, and combination fabric weights, with manufacturer-listed medium weights from 3.8 to 5.3 oz (108–150 g) depending on selected fabric configuration.
Tumble On Outfitters Alpha & Grid Combo Fleece Hoodie is a fleece layer with a 100% recycled polyester grid fleece body and Polartec Alpha Direct fleece arms and hood, with spandex cuffs, a high-neck hood, relaxed fit, and listed medium weights of 7.6 oz (215 g) or 8.6 oz (244 g).
Tumble On Outfitters Alpha & Grid Combo Fleece Hoodie is a fleece layer with a 100% recycled polyester grid fleece body and Polartec Alpha Direct fleece arms and hood, with spandex cuffs, a high-neck hood, relaxed fit, and listed medium weights of 7.6 oz (215 g) or 8.6 oz (244 g).
We recommend a synthetic insulated jacket for most conditions where weather is unpredictable, and the Torrid Apex is one of the best in terms of its warmth-to-weight ratio.
WEIGHT:
7.4 to 8.4 oz (210 to 238 g)
WHAT'S UNIQUE:
available in 7d or 10d fabrics
very high warmth-to-weight ratio for synthetic insulation
MAIN ISSUES:
synthetic insulation requires care, not as durable as down
The Alpha 90 Hoody by LEVE Outdoor Co. features Polartec® Alpha Direct 90gsm fabric, providing active insulation with a high warmth-to-weight ratio. It offers breathability and moisture management for stop-start activities. The minimalist design includes a 3-panel hood with shock cord drawstring and raglan sleeves, weighing 4oz (113g) in medium.
Base layers help manage moisture and regulate temperature in varying conditions. Materials like alpaca wool and fishnet balance breathability, warmth, and durability for extended use on the trail.
Synthetic and merino wool fiber fishnet base layer apparel - more breathable, higher warmth:weight ratio, and faster-drying than conventional knits. A very effective way to minimize sweat accumulation in your base layer, leaving you feeling dryer.
The Arms of Andes Men's Alpaca Wool Pullover Hoodie is made with 100% Royal Alpaca wool. Weighing approximately 13.8 oz (393 g) in men's medium, it serves as a cold-weather base layer or temperate-weather mid-layer. Soft and cozy next to skin when compared to polyesters.
Wuru Wool 100% Merino Lightweight Hoodie is a 170 gsm sun hoodie made from 18.9 micron Australian Merino wool, with UPF 50+ protection, hidden thumb loops, high coverage collar, raglan sleeves, locker loop, and 7.6 oz (215 g) medium weight.
Lightweight trekking clothing prioritizes sun protection, breathability, and quick drying. From wind-resistant layers to ventilated button-downs, hikers optimize trekking clothing for adaptability in changing environments, since they are generally wearing these layers at all times.
The Jolly Gear Triple Crown Button-Down is the only sun shirt integrating a full button-down front with a hood, offering adjustable ventilation rarely found in sun protective hiking apparel. Made from an 86% polyester, 14% spandex blend with antimicrobial and quick-drying properties, it includes zippered chest pockets, thumbholes, and a uniquely designed hood with a vent/hair hole and cinch cord. The body fabric is one of the highest air-permeable fabrics we've tested. Men's medium: 7.5 ounces (213 g) and up, depending on fabric choices.
When you need "just-in-case" rain protection for your lower body, and expect it to stay in your pack for most of your trek, consider the 1.5-ounce Rain Wrap. It's literally pocketable.
The TownShirt Co. Sun Hoodie features UPF 50+ protection, moisture-wicking and quick-drying 88% recycled polyester/12% spandex fabric, thumbholes, a kangaroo pocket, and a button-loop hood closure. It offers sun protection and comfort for outdoor activities, with anti-pilling properties and a unisex design.
The right accessories keep extremities warm and protected in harsh conditions. Ultralight gaiters, insulated booties, and breathable headwear offer functional layering options without excessive weight.
MICROspikes Ghost is a chain-free full-foot footwear traction device using a TPU underfoot matrix and hybrid TPE/TPR harness with twelve 0.36 in (9 mm) heat-treated stainless steel spikes per foot, weighing 6.4–7.4 oz (179–208 g) per pair and packing to 4.5 x 4 x 2 in.
Zpacks Ultralight Camp Shoes weigh 1.8 oz (51.7g) per pair, featuring 100D Ripstop Nylon front and sides for moisture protection, Lycra top for breathability, and a 4mm foam sole. The adjustable shock cord heel allows customized fit. Designed for short distances around camp, not hiking.
Shamma Sandals Elite Warriors are minimalist, zero-drop, ultralight sandals. They feature a 5mm Vibram Newflex sole, and a total stack height of 6mm. The Elite Lacing System offers three independent adjustment zones—heel strap, insole strap, and toe straps—for a customizable fit, utilizing Velcro fasteners and flexible heel posts to maintain optimal strap positioning. Each sandal weighs approximately 3 ounces (size 9) and is made in the USA.
Got cold feet while you sleep? Farpointe Alpha Camp Socks are made with Polartec Alpha Direct, so they keep your feet warm without costing you a lot of pack weight.
The Long Haul Cap features a lightweight polyester construction with laser-cut perforations for breathability, a five-panel design for fit, and a moisture-wicking sweatband. Its pliable, crushable brim maintains shape while allowing easy packing. Weighing 1.8 ounces, it offers an adjustable band fitting up to 58 cm head sizes.
The Sea to Summit Mosquito Head Net provides lightweight, full head protection from insects with fine mesh that offers maximum visibility and airflow. Ideal for backcountry travelers, it’s designed to fit over hats or helmets and packs small for easy storage during hikes or camping in bug-prone areas.
Skygoat Camp Mittens feature a split palm design that allows users to switch between full mitten and fingerless configurations. Made from microgrid fleece. Weights range from 25g to 31g per pair.
A lightweight cook system enhances backcountry meal prep efficiency. Titanium pots and minimalist utensils streamline cooking while keeping pack weight minimal. Insulated cozies help save fuel while keeping food warm.
If you're new to ultralight and are wondering where to start with a titanium pot, this is a great choice. It's ultralight, cost-effective, and big enough for a hearty meal.
Single-wall titanium 450 ml camping cup with folding wire handles, engraved oz and ml graduations, and uncoated titanium surface, measuring 3 1/8 in (79 mm) diameter by 3 1/2 in (90 mm) high and weighing 2.7 oz (76 g).
Perhaps the most versatile titanium pot on the market - more durable than Toaks, screw-top sealable lid can be used for cold-soaking or extra water storage, usable handles, and a lid that can be used for a mug or fry pan in a pinch.
The Suluk 46 Miksa Pot Lifter is an ultralight, compact tool designed to lift hot pots safely during backpacking trips. Available in various sizes and materials, it accommodates different pot capacities:
Miksa Small Carbon: 3.2 grams, suitable for lifting up to 600 ml.
Miksa Small Aluminum: 4.9 grams, suitable for lifting up to 600 ml.
Miksa Large Aluminum: 11 grams, suitable for lifting up to 1100 ml.
Miksa Extra Large Carbon: 18.5 grams, suitable for lifting up to 2000 ml.
The maximum capacity refers to the amount of liquid the lifter is designed to lift, not the pot's size. For example, the Miksa Small Pot Lifter can handle a 2L pot containing up to 600 ml of liquid. The aluminum versions' capacities are based on the physical effort needed to generate the leverage to lift the weight of the pot and liquid, while the carbon fiber versions' limits are based on material strength.
Brautigam Expedition Works titanium long-reach spork measures 9.65 in (24.5 cm) long and 1.75 in (4.5 cm) wide, with a square-bottom bowl, perforated handle, oversized carabiner hole, satin handle finish, and 0.6 oz (17 g) weight.
The Toaks Titanium Long Handle Spoon is a lightweight utensil weighing 0.65 oz (19g) and measuring 8 5/8 inches (220mm) in length. Crafted from pure titanium without any coating. The long handle and flat head design facilitate easy access to deep containers and efficient scraping of food from corners.
The PotPocket by Gossamer Gear is an insulated sleeve for backpacking pots, featuring PE foam insulation, heat-reflective polyester film, and a Tyvek exterior. Available in two sizes, it keeps meals warm, doubles as cookware storage, and includes a built-in handle. The design allows for easy cleaning and efficient folding.
The Big Sky International Insulite Insulated Food Pouch features a durable, insulated design that helps maintain food temperature in the backcountry. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it a practical solution for hikers and backpackers looking to keep meals warm or cool during extended outdoor trips.
Innovations in stove fuel efficiency and heat distribution improve performance and reliability, while modern designs take advantage of lightweight materials and minimalist construction.
The Soto Windmaster Stove is a lightweight (87g) canister stove featuring a concave burner head design that acts as a built-in windscreen, enhancing performance in windy conditions. It includes the 4Flex pot support, suitable for larger cookware, and offers an output of 2800 kcal/h (3260W/11000 BTU). The stove maintains consistent boil times across various temperatures and can boil 2 cups of water in under 2.5 minutes, even in strong winds. It is compatible with butane, isobutane, and propane mixtures, but not with 100% propane.
The BRS-3000T Ultralight Burner by BRS Outdoor is a compact canister stove weighing 0.88 ounces (26 grams). It delivers an output of 2700 watts and consumes approximately 140 grams of gas per hour to boil 1 liter of water. Constructed from titanium alloy, copper, and stainless steel, the stove features teeth-shaped pot supports and a unique fire plate design. It is compatible with most self-sealing canister fuels.
The Alpenflow Fuel Transfer Valve by Alpenglow Gear is an ultralight device designed to consolidate, share, or portion fuel between canisters, weighing less than a penny. Ideal for backpackers aiming to reduce waste and carry only the fuel they need.
Quality craft foods – for this section we are specifically recommending foods based on ingredient quality, ease of use and preparation, nutrition-to-weight ratio, and of course, flavor.
Luxefly BaseCamp offers simple, natural meals crafted by Chef Sara, bringing true restaurant-quality flavor to the outdoors. Each dish delivers comforting, home-cooked excellence designed to elevate your backpacking meals. No fillers, additives, or preservatives.
Reusable water bottle with squeezable LDPE construction, dual-cap openings, a removable ice-catch insert that also functions as a shaker, and a universal 28 mm thread for filter compatibility; capacity is 24 oz / 700 mL at the wide mouth or 30 oz / 880 mL at the narrow mouth, with a 4.3 oz (123 g) listed weight.
One liter reusable HDPE bottle with 28 mm neck compatible with common inline water filters, slim rectangular profile for side or shoulder strap pockets, molded volume markings, tethered cap with pull cord, and listed weight 3.18 oz (90 g); BPA, BPS, and BPF free.
The NOBO Water Bottle by Igneous is an ultralight, 64g HDPE bottle designed for adventurers seeking durability and minimal weight. Boil-safe and resistant to bacteria and microplastic breakdown, it's perfect for backpacking and bikepacking
The Vesica 1L by CNOC Outdoors is a collapsible water bottle with a 1-liter capacity, weighing 60g. It features a stiff neck and bottom for stability, a 28mm thread compatible with various filters, and is made of 0.4mm thick FDA-approved TPU. The bottle is BPA-free and operates between 20°F to 140°F.
The most common squeeze filter used by the long-distance hiking community. Good longevity, relatively fast flow rate, can be backflushed, attaches to a smartwater bottle.
The Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System with CNOC Premium 2 L Bladder combines a rugged, wide‑mouth TPU bladder with a 0.1‑micron hollow‑fiber filter that removes 99.99999% of bacteria, 99.9999% of protozoa, and 100% of microplastics. Durable, ultralight, and field‑cleanable, it handles up to 100,000 gallons and works as a squeeze or gravity filter—ideal for solo treks or group adventures
Inline hollow-fiber water filter with 0.1 micron pore size and 99.9999% bacteria removal, dual 28 mm threaded ends for bottle, inline, gravity, or straw use, rated up to 100,000 gallons and weighing about 2 oz (57 g).
A cult favorite in the ultralight community for its ease of use, pre-mix stability, efficacy against viruses, bacteria, and protozoan cysts, and its ability to impart better flavor and odor to bad water sources. Can be repackaged if using opaque PE dropper bottles.
The BoglerCo Ultralight Backpacking Trowel is a compact digging tool weighing approximately 0.48 ounces (13.5 grams). Constructed from high-strength aluminum alloy, it features serrated edges for cutting through roots and a UV-resistant ABS plastic end cap for enhanced comfort during use. Handmade in the USA, it comes with a lifetime warranty.
The Kula Cloth (0.5 ounces / 14 g) is an antimicrobial, reusable pee cloth featuring a highly absorbent, silver-infused fabric on one side and a waterproof, non-permeable layer on the other to prevent leaks. It includes a snap closure for easy attachment to your pack and a stealth-mode fold for discreet storage.
Transform your standard water bottle into a hygienic bidet with this ultralight (4 g) threaded cap attachment—perfect for long-distance hikers who practice Leave No Trace.
Unpaste Tooth Tabs are toothpaste tablets made with natural ingredients, free from preservatives and SLS, and packaged compostably. Available in fluoride or fluoride-free options. Each pack contains 125 tablets, lasting about two months.
The Trailbrush by Trail Stuff is a 2-gram toothbrush head that attaches to the handle of a long-handled spoon or spork, eliminating the need for a separate toothbrush handle. Designed for ultralight backpacking, it utilizes existing gear to reduce pack weight. The Trailbrush is compatible with utensils from brands like Toaks, Vargo, and Sea to Summit, but not with Snow Peak utensils. It includes a protective cap and is made from silicone and nylon materials. The Trailbrush is available in various colors.
Hot spots and blisters can be a major discomfort during hikes, especially when traditional fixes like Moleskin or Duct Tape don’t hold up in wet or high-friction conditions. Leukotape offers a superior solution with its durable adhesive that sticks even when wet, providing reliable blister prevention. Compact and versatile, Leukotape is a staple for ultralight hikers, helping to prevent injuries while also being useful for gear repair and joint support.
The Igneous Repair Spool is a 32g compact repair kit for ultralight backpackers, featuring 1 yard of Gorilla Tape, 3 yards of nylon thread with an integrated sewing needle, and repair patches for clothing, tents, and sleeping pads, all organized within a hollow spool to minimize bulk. Also available in an ultralight (smaller) version.
The Petzl Swift LT is an ultra-compact, 43g, USB-C rechargeable headlamp that delivers up to 380 lumens via a wide, uniform beam. Three regulated white levels plus red and strobe modes, reflective headband, IPX4 weather resistance, and recycled materials support weight-critical backcountry applications and low-impact night travel.
The Nitecore NU20 Classic Headlamp delivers 360 lumens of bright, consistent light with a lightweight design and USB-C rechargeable battery, offering reliable hands-free illumination for hikers and backpackers in demanding backcountry environments. Its compact form and efficient power management make it ideal for extended outdoor use.
The RovyVon Aurora A5 (G4) is a USB-C rechargeable keychain flashlight with a 330mAh Li-polymer battery. It features a 650-lumen main LED, secondary white/red side lights, and a glow-in-the-dark body. The magnetic clip and tail enable hands-free use, while the lockout mode prevents accidental activation.
Black Diamond's Moji Lantern is a compact, lightweight lighting solution that offers a maximum output of 200 lumens and features a frosted globe for even light distribution. The lantern supports dual-fuel operation, running on either a rechargeable BD 1500 Li-ion battery or three AAA batteries (both sold separately). Additional features include a dimming switch for adjustable brightness, a double-hook hang loop for easy suspension, and an IPX4 stormproof rating. Multi-color LED lighting.
Nitecore NB10000 is a 10,000 mAh (39 Wh) power bank with dual USB-C ports, carbon fiber sheets, reinforced flame-retardant composite frame, IPX7 rating, Knock to Wake indicators, RGB port lights, pass-through charging, and 5 oz (143 g) weight.
Nitecore Carbo 10000 Gen 2 power bank with 10000mAh 3.88V capacity, carbon fiber shell, magnesium alloy heat sinks, dual USB-C ports, pass-through charging, four power indicator lights, IPX8 rating, 30W maximum input/output, and 6 oz (170 g) weight.
Nitecore Carbon Battery 6K is a 6,000 mAh (21.6 Wh) power bank with a carbon fiber shell, single USB-C input/output port, three red power indicator lights, red safety light function, IP68 rating, 1 m impact resistance, and 3.1 oz (88 g) weight.
Functional, accurate, waterproof, easy to read, and cheap - buy a half dozen of these and attach them to all of your packs, get another half-dozen for gifts and stocking stuffers!
Nitecore NLink10 is a USB-C to USB-C charging cable with magnetic end closure, flat-braided polyester fabric construction, aluminum alloy and TPU components, gold-plated connectors, 60 W maximum power, 3 A maximum current, folded dimensions of 2.8 in x 0.52 in x 0.54 in, and 0.39 oz (11 g) weight.
From ultralight trekking poles to multi-use umbrellas, small accessories can have a big impact on comfort, efficiency, and overall pack weight. Choosing high-quality, purpose-driven gear helps maintain an ultralight ethos without sacrificing convenience.
Rawlogy's Cork Massage Balls offer a lightweight and eco-friendly solution for relieving muscle tension and soreness, making them a great addition to both your backpacking kit and daily life. Made from 100% sustainable cork, these massage balls are firm yet supple, perfect for rolling out sore muscles after a long day on the trail or at home. They strike a good balance between effectiveness and packability, helping you stay limber without adding much weight to your pack.
The Gossamer Gear LT5 Three-Piece Carbon Trekking Poles offer lightweight, adjustable support with a 100% carbon fiber construction. Designed for backcountry travel, they provide strength and stability while minimizing pack weight for long-distance hikers and backpackers.
This article is sponsored by Garage Grown Gear, the hub for all things ultralight – the world’s largest retailer for small, startup, and cottage brands.
The sponsor did not participate in the editorial direction, writing, or editing of this manuscript, which was developed solely by the Backpacking Light editorial team. Recommendations for products in this gear guide are made at the sole discretion of Backpacking Light and its editors.
DISCLOSURE (Updated April 9, 2024)
Backpacking Light does not accept compensation or donated/discounted products in exchange for product mentions or placements in editorial coverage.
Some (but not all) of the links in this review may be affiliate links. If you click on one of these links and visit one of our affiliate partners (usually a retailer site), and subsequently place an order with that retailer, we receive a commission on your entire order, which varies between 3% and 15% of the purchase price. Affiliate commissions represent less than 15% of Backpacking Light's gross revenue. More than 70% of our revenue comes from Membership Fees. So if you'd really like to support our work, don't buy gear you don't need - support our consumer advocacy work and become a Member instead.
Learn more about affiliate commissions, influencer marketing, and our consumer advocacy work by reading our article Stop wasting money on gear.
Ryan Jordan interviews Blake Boles, author of Dirtbag Rich, about redefining wealth through time, purpose, flexibility, and outdoor freedom. They explore dirtbag culture, careers, housing, relationships, risk, and the pursuit of a life built around adventure, simplicity, and meaningful time outside before retirement.
Show Notes:
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If you crave nature, freedom, adventure, and work that matters—rather than just paying the bills for a life you never chose—then you might be ready to become dirtbag rich.
Drawing from the “dirtbag” tradition of pursuing outdoor bliss through creative self-sufficiency, this book charts an unconventional way of living that includes both security and flexibility, connection and independence, and service and self-actualization.
Whether you’re jettisoning a life that’s not working or just getting started, the message of Dirtbag Rich is clear: You don’t have to play the same game as everyone else. You can have a life where you wake up and decide what you want to do, every day. You really can.
Through personal stories and candid interviews with people who’ve made it work—from nurses and trail runners to graphic designers and relationship coaches—Blake Boles shows how to build a life rich in time, purpose, and freedom.
In this philosophical essay, Backpacking Light founder Ryan Jordan argues that wilderness is more than scenery, recreation, or resource. Drawing on Aristotle, and testing ancient and modern philosophies against the state of humanity’s relationship to nature, he proposes a Wilderness Ethic of Flourishing: wild places cultivate prudence, courage, temperance, and contemplation in ways modern civilization cannot. This philosophical foundation offers a deeper case for preserving wild lands in an age of distraction, extraction, and political distortion.
The Arms of Andes 160 Ultralight Alpaca‑Wool Crew‑Neck Base Layer T‑Shirt is made from 160 g/m² of 100% royal alpaca wool, features a PFAS‑free finish, short‑sleeve crew design, natural odor resistance, moisture‑wicking and temperature‑regulating properties, and is crafted in Peru with no synthetic fibers.
A lightweight line of 100% alpaca-wool apparel built for comfort and versatility, ideal for layering or warm-weather excursions. The collection features minimalist everyday essentials, T-shirts, hoodies, and tank tops designed to wick moisture, regulate temperature, and resist odors naturally.
Arms of Andes offers lightweight, breathable merino wool sun hoodies designed for hiking and travel. They provide UV protection, moisture wicking, and natural odor resistance for comfortable performance in any climate.
Arms of Andes makes sustainable, high performance outdoor apparel crafted from 100% alpaca wool and made entirely in Peru. The brand focuses on natural fiber performance, ethical production, and single origin sourcing for versatile hiking and travel layers.
By minimizing your load, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring reliability, we strive to provide a better backcountry experience so you can focus on the adventure, not the gear.
Durston Gear designs premium ultralight backcountry gear from the Canadian Rockies, including its award winning X-Mid tents and Kakwa packs. The focus is lighter weight, simplicity, and protection to improve your time in the backcountry
Since its inception, Suluk 46 has stayed true to mission; provide ultra-light backcountry tools that are expertly engineered to surpass existing material and manufacturing limits, resulting in a product line that boasts ultra-high strength to weight ratios. With a strong focus on R&D in the engineering design field, Suluk 46 prides itself on thinking outside of the box and producing innovative and revolutionary products in the lightest package possible.
Gossamer Gear makes functional ultralight backpacking and hiking gear designed by hikers, with a “take less, do more” philosophy. It’s best known for lightweight packs, shelters, and accessories built to keep things simple and trail-ready.
Feathered Friends is a Seattle-based maker of premium down sleeping bags, outdoor apparel, and down bedding, handcrafted locally since 1972. It emphasizes high-quality, ethically sourced down and durable construction for backcountry and home use.
Zenbivy designs innovative, modular sleep systems that combine the comfort of a bed with the versatility of a sleeping bag. Built for backpackers and campers, Zenbivy gear emphasizes warmth, freedom of movement, and sustainability.
Enlightened Equipment specializes in ultralight, customizable quilts, sleeping bags, and apparel designed for backpackers and adventurers seeking ultralight performance and versatility.
Tenkara USA is a leading retailer and educator for tenkara fishing, offering rods, lines, flies, and complete starter kits built around a simple “rod, line, and fly” approach. Founded in 2009, it helped introduce tenkara to anglers outside Japan and focuses on lightweight, effective gear for mountain streams.
This episode features the Garmin Fenix series watches. From the host: “Garmin’s Fenix series watches have been one of the most important tools in my backcountry training and research workflow. I rely on them daily to monitor pace, elevation gain, heart rate, and movement efficiency across mountain days. The longitudinal data produced by these watches has been especially valuable for analyzing metabolic cost in terrain, which directly informed the development of the Metabolic Energy Mile framework. The same datasets also support the modeling behind the TRIPS planning platform, where terrain, load, and physiology intersect to predict effort and travel time in wilderness environments. These watches remain core research instruments for me.” – Ryan Jordan
The Fenix 8 AMOLED is the current standard-bearer of ABC/GPS fitness watches. It offers similar guts and sensor technology as the Garmin Epix Pro 2 (including multiband/L5), but with a modified (simpler) user interface and a new codebase. Recent firmware updates in late 2024 have improved responsiveness, battery life, customization features, and usability.
Backpacking performance is governed by concentric vs. eccentric muscle work, aerobic vs. threshold metabolism, gait mechanics, and neurological regulation.
TRIPS parameterizes these regimes explicitly using grade-dependent power regulation, braking costs, and stability constraints to improve time and energy prediction accuracy.
This episode presents an operational framework for fatigue management in backcountry travel grounded in a non-circular load–fatigue–capacity model. Load is defined as external demand, fatigue as accumulated physiological and cognitive degradation, and remaining capacity as current ability. Risk is treated as the ratio of current load to remaining capacity. The discussion emphasizes field-relevant behavioral levers that reduce load, slow fatigue accumulation, and improve recovery.
Five fuzzy insulations get measured head-to-head: Polartec Alpha Direct, Primaloft Evolve, and three Teijin Octa builds. See how structure drives air permeability, MVTR, drying rate and energy, directional R-value, and durability. Results highlight Alpha’s breathability and efficiency, Evolve’s resilience, and Octa’s structured, durable use cases for high-output backcountry layering systems.
Flying to a trailhead is easy until fuel, stakes, poles, and batteries come into play. This guide compiles verifiable TSA, FAA PackSafe, and airline rules into a practical packing matrix: what’s allowed on aircraft, what must be checked, what belongs in carry-on, and how to handle common edge cases safely.
Introduction
Air travel imposes different constraints on backpacking equipment than ground transport. At U.S. airports, three rule sets matter: (1) TSA security screening rules that determine what may pass through the checkpoint, (2) FAA hazardous materials restrictions that prohibit certain items on passenger aircraft regardless of where they are packed, and (3) airline policies that may be more restrictive than TSA or FAA requirements. These layers are enforced independently, and compliance with one does not guarantee acceptance under the others.
Backpacking gear includes several categories that routinely trigger enforcement actions: fuel and fuel containers, pressurized canisters, ignition sources, sharp or pointed hardware (stakes, crampons, ice tools), and lithium batteries and power banks. For each of these categories, the practical question is not “Is it allowed?” in a general sense, but: (a) is the item permitted on the aircraft at all, and if so, (b) is it permitted in carry-on baggage, checked baggage, or both.
Destination backpacking: Bozeman, Montana (BZN).
This article provides rule-based classification for common backpacking items based on verifiable U.S.-focused sources. “Allowed on aircraft” indicates whether the item can legally be transported by passengers under FAA hazmat rules and related TSA guidance. “Checked allowed” and “Carry-on allowed” indicate where the item may be packed, if permitted at all. Where the rules are conditional (for example, a stove is permitted only when free of fuel and vapors, or trekking poles are permitted only when blunt-tipped), the table states the specific condition so that the reader can make a packing decision before arriving at the airport.
Blunt-tipped poles are allowed; sharp-tipped poles are not allowed in carry-on. Airline carry-on acceptance can vary. [1]
Crampons / traction devices
Yes (conditional) [2]
Yes [2]
Yes (special instructions) [2]
Generally permitted, but TSA officers can disallow if they judge it a security threat. [2]
Small scissors
Yes [3]
Yes [3]
Yes (special instructions) [3]
Carry-on only if blades are < 4 in from the pivot point. [3]
Multi-tools
Yes (conditional) [4]
Yes [4]
Conditional [4]
Multi-tools with knives of any length are prohibited in carry-on. Multi-tools with scissors < 4 in may be allowed in carry-on. [4]
Hand tools (general)
Yes [5]
Yes [5]
Conditional [5]
Tools 7 in or shorter may be allowed in carry-on; power tools and tools > 7 in must be checked. [5]
Knives
Yes [6]
Yes [6]
No [6]
Generally prohibited in carry-on (with limited exceptions like butter knives/plastic cutlery); allowed in checked. [6]
Ice axe / ice pick
Yes [7]
Yes [7]
No [7]
Prohibited in carry-on; allowed in checked (sheath/wrap recommended). [7]
Axe / hatchet
Yes [8]
Yes [8]
No [8]
Prohibited in carry-on; allowed in checked. [8]
Saws
Yes [9]
Yes [9]
No [9]
Prohibited in carry-on; allowed in checked (secure sharp edges). [9]
Camp stove (no fuel)
Yes (conditional) [10][11]
Yes (special instructions) [10]
Yes (special instructions) [10]
Stove is allowed only if empty of all fuel and cleaned so no fuel vapors/residue remain. [10] Fuel (and fuel residue) is forbidden. [11]
Camp stove fuel (any type)
No [11]
No [11]
No [11]
All forms of camp stove fuel are forbidden in carry-on and checked, including compressed canisters, liquid fuels, solid fuel tabs, and even containers/equipment with residual fuel. [11]
Power banks / spare lithium batteries
Yes (conditional) [12][13]
No [12][13]
Yes [12][13]
Must be in carry-on only. FAA also sets capacity-based limits (e.g., >160 Wh not allowed on passenger aircraft). [13]
Toiletries and liquid/gel/aerosol items (incl. sunscreen, insect repellent)
Yes (conditional) [14]
Yes
Conditional [14]
Carry-on must follow TSA 3-1-1 (3.4 oz/100 mL containers in 1 quart bag). Checked is generally allowed (subject to hazardous-material limits). [14]
Pepper spray / mace (≤ 4 fl oz)
Yes (conditional) [15][17]
Conditional [15][17]
No [15][17]
TSA: one 4 fl oz container permitted in checked if it has a safety mechanism; some airlines prohibit entirely (example: American Airlines lists defense sprays as not allowed). [15][17]
Bear spray / animal repellent
No (in practical backpacking sizes) [16]
No [16]
No [16]
FAA notes most bear sprays exceed 4 oz and therefore cannot be carried. [16]
Safety matches
Yes (conditional) [18][20]
No [18]
Yes (limited quantity) [18][20]
TSA: one book of safety (non-strike-anywhere) matches allowed in carry-on; prohibited in checked. FAA: quantity limit is one book/packet in carry-on or on person. [18][20]
Strike-anywhere matches
No [19]
No [19]
No [19]
Prohibited in both carry-on and checked. [19]
Disposable butane lighter
Yes (limited) [22]
No (with limited exception) [21]
Yes (1 per passenger; carry-on or on-person) [22]
FAA PackSafe: absorbed liquid and butane lighters (including disposable) are limited to one lighter per passenger in carry-on or on one’s person. [22] TSA: “Disposable and Zippo” lighters are generally allowed in carry-on; fueled lighters are prohibited in checked baggage unless properly enclosed in a DOT-approved case (up to two). [21]
Default to conservative packing for ambiguous items. If an item is marked “conditional” or “special instructions,” assume it may be questioned and pack it in checked baggage when feasible (or leave it behind).
Remove the highest-risk categories entirely. Do not attempt to fly with stove fuel, fuel canisters, or fuel-containing equipment. Plan to purchase fuel after landing or arrange legal ground shipment where applicable.
Assume sharp/pointed hardware belongs in checked baggage. Tent stakes, crampons, ice tools, knives, saws, and similar items routinely trigger carry-on denials; checking them reduces the probability of confiscation and delays.
Treat lithium spares as carry-on-only and keep them accessible. Power banks and spare lithium batteries should not be checked. If you are forced to gate-check a bag, remove any spares before surrendering it.
Minimize “judgment calls.” Where possible, replace contentious items with lower-risk alternatives (for example, ship or rent bear spray at the destination; use blunt-tipped pole caps; carry only compliant liquid volumes in carry-on).
Prepare for inspection. Pack items so they can be quickly presented and understood: sheath edges, cover tips, and group related items (e.g., a “sharp hardware” pouch in checked baggage). For stoves, if you choose to travel with one, ensure it is demonstrably free of fuel and odor and packed so it can be inspected without disassembling your entire bag.
Have a failure mode. If an item is critical to your trip, plan a backup: identify where you can buy/borrow/rent it at your destination, or ship it ahead to a hotel/outfitter.
Your objective is not to prove you are right at the checkpoint; it is to reduce the probability that a single item causes delay, confiscation, or a missed connection.
Edge case examples
Rechargeable headlamps with sealed LiPo packs, satellite messengers, and PLBs are best treated as lithium-battery electronics: pack them in your carry-on so they remain accessible, protected from damage, and not subjected to checked-baggage lithium restrictions. FAA guidance is explicit that spare (uninstalled) lithium batteries and power banks must be in carry-on, and if a carry-on is gate-checked, those spares (including power banks) must be removed and kept in the cabin; in practice, the same “keep it with you” approach reduces trip risk for devices that are expensive, safety-critical, and battery-powered. If you carry larger-capacity battery packs, confirm the watt-hour rating before you fly, because both the FAA and TSA impose stricter limits as capacity increases (notably in the 101–160 Wh category and airline-approval expectations), and units above typical consumer sizes are more likely to be questioned. Smart luggage (packs or suitcases with built-in batteries or tracking batteries) is a specific edge case: the FAA states that baggage equipped with lithium batteries must be carried on unless the batteries are removed, and checked baggage is only allowed under very small battery thresholds.
Avalanche airbags and chemical heat sources require different handling. FAA PackSafe routes avalanche rescue backpacks into the “self-inflating personal safety device” category when they use compressed non-flammable gas cartridges (e.g., CO₂/argon) and emphasizes that lithium-battery-powered systems must also comply with battery rules; because these are high-friction items at check-in and screening, a conservative approach is to travel without the cartridge and source it at your destination when feasible. For hand warmers, FAA explicitly permits disposable air-activated warmers (carbon/charcoal/iron types) in either carry-on or checked baggage with no quantity limit, while forbidding warmers that use flammable liquids or gases; TSA lists hand warmers as allowed but also reiterates that the final decision rests with the TSA officer, which is a useful reminder for any “edge case” item that is technically permitted but unfamiliar to screeners.
Enforcement variability
This guide summarizes U.S.-focused rules from TSA, FAA PackSafe, and selected airline policies, but it cannot guarantee that any specific item will be accepted on a given day. In practice, these rules are applied through discretionary decisions made by (1) airline personnel at check-in and at the gate, and (2) TSA officers at the checkpoint. Even when an item appears to fall within published guidance, it may be delayed for additional screening, refused for carriage, or prohibited based on an officer’s judgment that it presents a security or safety risk. Airline policies can also be more restrictive than TSA/FAA baseline rules and may be enforced differently across airports, staff, and operational contexts (for example, during irregular operations when carry-on bags are gate-checked).
Because policies and interpretations change over time, treat this table as a decision-support tool rather than a definitive authorization. Before departure, verify the current rules for any borderline item using the official TSA “What Can I Bring?” entry, FAA PackSafe guidance, and your airline’s restricted items page. If those sources conflict, the most restrictive rule governs your trip.
Find information about all of our upcoming Member Q&A’s, Webinars, Live Courses, other live events, and more on our Events Calendar Page.
Main Topic Bullets
Backcountry motivation extends beyond recreation into measurable effects on work, relationships, stress, and decision-making.
Modern life fills a mental queue through constant interruptions, responsiveness, and unfinished obligations.
Scarcity research shows urgent demands can dominate attention and reduce longer-term planning quality (Shah et al., 2012. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1222426).
Financial strain research shows cognitive performance can drop in-the-moment as stress and preoccupation consume capacity (Mani et al., 2013. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1238041).
Nature exposure effects appear in stages rather than as a binary “in nature equals restored” outcome.
A few minutes outside can reduce checking behavior and loosen the urge to scan for updates.
Two nights in natural light-dark conditions can shift circadian timing earlier relative to typical indoor lighting patterns (Wright et al., 2013. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2013.06.039).
Seventy-two hours is presented as the first reliable breakpoint where stacked benefits persist after returning home.
Multi-day immersion studies suggest the body responds differently to multi-day forest exposure than to brief exposure (Li et al., 2007. https://doi.org/10.1177/03946320070200S202).
Vacations can fail as resets when social coordination, connectivity, and schedule pressure preserve the same mental strain drivers.
Vacation benefits often fade after re-entry, supporting a maintenance cadence rather than rare “rescue” breaks (de Bloom et al., 2009. https://doi.org/10.1539/joh.K8004).
More recent meta-analytic evidence reinforces the importance of post-vacation conditions in sustaining well-being gains (Speth et al., 2024. https://doi.org/10.1027/1016-9040/a000518).
Microadventures and 24-hour adventures offer repeatable, low-friction breaks, but typically provide relief rather than the more durable shift associated with 72 hours.
A practical maintenance model is proposed: target 72-hour disengagement every 8–12 weeks, using 24-hour trips as stabilizers between longer resets.
Our staff selects their favorite hiking, backpacking, and other backcountry gear that they’ve used over the past year – the next edition of our infamous Staff Picks!
Introduction
Each year, our staff selects their favorite backcountry gear from the past 12 months, and we look forward to you sharing your favorite gear of the year as well in the forum comments below!
Our Staff
This year’s staff picks contributors include our authors, educators, researchers, and operations staff:
Two-person single-wall trekking pole shelter using patented X-Mid geometry with Dyneema Composite fly, optional 15D sil/PEU nylon or Dyneema floor, dual doors and vestibules, Dyneema hot-bonded construction, and listed tent weights of 17.9–19.9 oz (509–565 g).
I’ve been this tent since it was released and have spent over 75 nights in it. It still hasn’t lost its charm or performance. After using it on two weeklong trips in Yellowstone National Park this summer where I shared it with my wife, I realized I can’t imagine opting for another tent for multi-night trips in three-season conditions. The weight, the space, and the performance check all the boxes I need for three-season trips in the Northern Rockies. – Mark Wetherington
Sling bag / fanny pack with adjustable 3/4 in strap and buckle, one main pocket with #3 water-resistant coil zipper and exterior gear loop, constructed from Challenge RBC450RS recycled poly and mixed EXP200, VX21, 210d nylon/HDPE gridstop, and EPLX70 fabrics, 4 x 6 in (10 x 15 cm), 2.5 oz (71 g), made in USA.
I’m 6’5″ and am eternally finding myself smacking the sides of my tent, which in most conditions means me and my gear getting soaked. My SoLong is one of the few ultralight tents I’ve found where I can keep my head and feet clear of all surfaces. As an added bonus, while the tent is designed for trekking poles, I was able to rig up a simple system to use packraft paddles instead, saving weight on float trips. – Tom Moran
2-person, side-entry, 2-doors, dual vestibules, single-wall DCF dome-style shelter that can use trekking poles for eyebrow pole support for additional stability in extreme weather.
I shifted my shelter strategy in 2025, and spent most of my nights in either a bivy sack or a dome-style not hub-and-pole) freestanding tent – two extremes. My primary reason for using a dome-style freestanding tent in the winter – ease of pitch with good wind stability. And in the summer, for its ability to pitch on slabs without stakes (to minimize my camping impact). When selecting a tent, I placed a very high priority on light weight and wind stability. The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Crosspeak 2 has proven itself over and again in all seasons for me this year, and has become a trusted shelter. From 50-mph winds at the base of Long’s Peak in the winter to slab camping in the High Sierra, this has become one of my favorite tents. – Ryan Jordan
Sea to Summit has managed to cram a very interesting feature set into their premium sleeping bag model, including 950+ fill power down, 10D ultralight nylon fabrics, draft tunnels and collars, and an opposite-side short-zip (2-way) which allows the occupant use of both arms while snuggled up in the hood.
The most comfortable sleeping bag with features that make camp life a whole lot easier. Zipped toe box to air out hot feet or walk around the campsite and button snaps to keep the sleeping bag on while cooking breakfast, this lightweight bag has it all. Putting this bag to the test on a week long paragliding and camping trip through Austria and Switzerland proved this bag’s high tech features, light weight, and low pack volume were worth every penny (or euro)! Most often combined with my Ether Light XR Insulated Air Sleeping Pad, inflatable pillow, and the waterproof Outdoor Research Helium bivy – a system I’ve used across the Swiss Alps, Colorado Rockies, and on big walls in Yosemite. – Max Brand
Forged S55C steel tent stake measuring 8 in long with 0.6 in head, designed for securing small tents or tarps; manufacturer-listed weight is 3 oz (75 g) per stake.
On longer trips, especially in cold and dry climates, I almost always bring my trusty steel tent stake. It flies in the face of everything ultralight — at over 7 times the weight of a small DAC J Stake. That said, it has become an indispensable tool for making pilot holes in frozen or otherwise “harder than aluminium/titanium” ground surfaces where rocks and compact sediment often tear up ultralight stakes. Save your fingers, save your stakes, pitch your tent efficiently every time. – Atticus Lee
LuxuryLite StackPack ($495) is a 36 oz / 66L modular external-frame pack that also becomes a reclining camp chair, built for bear-can carry, fast-access waterproof barrel bags, and a highly adjustable ventilated Easton frame.
An external pack frame that weighs a scant kilogram, including the pack and it is rated to carry 50 or more pounds comfortably. I’ve carried 40 pounds in it with no trouble. The belt is both strong and light, doesn’t fold, and I love the hook feature that allows me to quickly take the pack off or on without adjusting the belt. (The hook can be tied down with zip ties if you prefer a semi-permanent attachment.) It carries very well for walking, and can be cinched down for occasional scrambling, although it doesn’t fit close like a mountaineering pack. The frame can stay slightly off the back for ventilation. Overall it is the lightest pack and frame capable of such heavy carry. It’s on the verge of “ultralight” without making the compromises that most UL packs make. – Bill Budney
Osprey Mutant Nimsdai 90 Backpack
If doing a solo backcountry skiing trip of a week to 10 days, I like a decent bit of room. The Osprey Mutant Nimsdai 90 (now discontinued) offers that extra capacity. But the reason I loved the pack in 2025 was that my sixteen year old son took it on his three day Duke of Edinburgh Award bushwalk in the Blue Mountains, west of Sydney, Australia. And then he carried it again for seven days when we both did the famed Overland Track in Tasmania’s alpine country. What’s not to love about a product that enthuses a teenager to be outdoors and off his digital devices? – Warren McLaren
Day (or minimalist overnight) packs featuring recycled nylon construction with ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene ripstop reinforcement. The Talon Pro 30 weighs 2.4 lbs with 30L capacity, while the Tempest Pro 30 weighs approximately 2.2 lbs with 30L capacity. Both models include injection-molded framesheet, adjustable torso length system, continuous-wrap hipbelt, and top-loading bucket-style main compartment access. External attachment points accommodate trekking poles and ice axes, with water-resistant zippered hipbelt pockets and dual water bottle holders. Known in the Search and Rescue community for their ability to stabilize and comfortably carry heavy, dense loads.
I did a review on this pack earlier in the year and now it’s had a couple hundred more hours of use. Though not super ultra light, this pack has been ideal for SAR. It has just the right amount of pockets and just the right fit to keep it comfortable and stable in the field. – Emylene VanderVelden
Frameless roll-top backpack with snap/buckle/g-hook closure, bottom UHMWPE grid mesh pocket, integrated shoulder strap pockets, reachable side pockets, designated front mesh stake pocket, and stashable hipbelt, built from 210d UHMWPE Gridstop or Ultraweave 200x, 31–37 L internal volume, 17.7–18.7 oz (502–530 g).
The Pa’lante V2 Backpack has been my go-to for shorter trips in three-season conditions and also doubles as my daypack year-round. It’s got all the features I need, none I don’t, and is easy to fit into my bicycle panniers when I’m biking to trailheads. – Mark Wetherington
Hydration-compatible hip pack constructed from materials described as waterproof, configured for standard 1–2 L water bladders with hose and an included magnetic tube clip, with unisex sizing intended to fit approximately S to XL, handmade by Whitebark Gear in Salt Lake City, Utah.
My wife and I are big fans of this pack for day hikes and running. It has just enough room for the essentials. As well as a dedicated spot for bear spray, a must-have here in Alaska. Also works well combined with a larger pack for longer adventures. – Tom Moran
Made with a particularly unique fabric composed of mineral coatings that reflect a reported 70% of sunlight, minimizing heat absorption and improving thermal comfort in direct sun.
This is my go-to sun-hoody for any outdoor adventure—whether backpacking, river trips, alpine climbing, cragging, running, or mountaineering. It offers excellent sun coverage, a comfortable fit, and the perfect balance of thickness for a wide range of temperatures. In 2025, this was the only shirt I wore and brought on all of my backcountry trips. – Jeff Podmayer
Men's waterproof-breathable shell jacket using OutDry Extreme construction with fully seam-sealed external membrane, matte 100% recycled nylon shell and soft wicking interior, underarm vents, drawcord-adjustable hood and hem, PU-coated zippers, adjustable cuffs, and 29 in (73.7 cm) center back length.
This year’s model is slightly lighter than last year’s and also has pit zips. It’s a great option for prolonged and/or heavy rain because it can never wet out (because the membrane is on the outside), while still maintaining some amount of breathability. I bought a comically huge one that fits over a small day pack (and it ventilates better than any other jacket I have tried). – Bill Budney
Down-insulated sleeve accessory sold in pairs, intended for use with Sniveller-style quilts or vests, constructed from 1.1 oz ripstop nylon with DWR and 800 fill Activ-Dri treated down, available in Regular, Long, and XL sizes, weighing 5 oz (142 g) per pair.
These convert a vest into a jacket. A vest is like having huge pit zips, so it can serve dual duty as active or static insulation. The sleeves only come out for static use or extreme conditions. They’re a great upgrade to a puffy vest. Mine are black, oversized so that I can wear them over other layers, and have more loft than most vests I would carry. – Bill Budney
Double thickness skull beanie knitted in New Zealand by Lothlorian Knitwear from a possum merino blend of 40% possum fur, 50% fine merino lambswool, and 10% nylon, in a close-fitting cap style offered in multiple colors.
The cosiest, snuggliest, few grams I carry. Possums are feral animals in New Zealand, and their Department of Conservation manages culling. As a result, my beanie contains 40% possum fur, a hollow fibre, apparently similar to polarbear fur. Indeed, it is claimed to be 55% warmer than merino wool and35% warmer than cashmere.I can’t verify any of that, but I can say that when I accidentally shrunk my first possum beanie in a hot wash, I immediately bought a replacement. Best beanie on the planet. – Warren McLaren
Men's hooded down parka with 7-denier Ballistic Airlight nylon ripstop shell (water repellent finish) and 1000 Fill Power EX Down insulation, using sewn-through quilting, dual-axial hood, elastic cuffs, hem drawcord, and two zippered hand pockets; 8.4 oz (237 g), packed to 5.5 x 7.5 in (14 x 19 cm).
This jacket is lightweight, comfortable, extremely packable and very warm. Plus, it looks good! It is a permanent fixture to my shoulder season winter backpacking kits. – Jeff de Graffenried
Jersey-knit-lined pants keep me cozy for winter camping and hiking. Lots of warmth and mobility (with stretch) in this pant for hiking in fringe season and winter. – Stephanie Jordan
Weighing 105 g, the Mountain Hardwear Kor AirShell Hoody is constructed from Pertex Quantum Air 20D stretch ripstop fabric, featuring an elastic-bound hood, raglan sleeves with underarm gussets, two zippered hand pockets, and elastic bindings at the cuffs and hem; it stows into its internal pocket with a carabiner clip loop.
Regardless of whether I am hiking through gales blowing off the Atlantic Ocean on the south coast of Iceland, or some of Rocky Mountain National Park’s high elevation windstorms, the Kor Airshell has kept me warm in windy conditions all year. The fabric is extremely comfortable against the skin, and is extremely breathable, helping me stay mobile without dampening my layers and skin with sweat. – Chase Jordan
Women's down-insulated pant with Whisperer 15D nylon ripstop shell and lining and 800-fill RDS-certified goose down, featuring internal drawstring waist with snap front and zip fly, two hand pockets, ankle zips, included stuff sack, and approximate weight 9 oz (256 g).
I had been wanting a pair of down pants for years. I finally got this pair and I have not been disappointed. First, the come in lengths short to tall, which is not super common in women’s outdoor pants in my experience. They have a comfortable fit and large pockets for all my small items around camp. The fabric is luxurious and most importantly, they are toasty warm on cold nights. These are a great addition to my sleep layering system and a dry warm layer at camp for cold evenings when I want to star gaze instead of sitting in the tent (or in the house). – Emylene VanderVelden
Malleable nose and cheek cover for extreme cold, built around a thin-gauge windproof reinforced aluminum core wrapped in fuzzy fleece, secured by an adjustable elastic head strap to isolate frostbite-prone areas while leaving the mouth uncovered; handmade in Fairbanks, Alaska.
In very cold climates, wearing a balaclava or buff over the mouth and nose doesn’t work well; condensation from breath ices over on them, making them lose their insulative qualities and sometimes sag right off the face. The phenomenally goofy-looking nose hat is a great solution, as it provides wind protection for the nose and cheeks while leaving the nostrils and mouth exposed. – Tom Moran
When a rain jacket spends most of its time stowed in your pack, weight becomes its most important feature. Of the rain jackets on the market that weigh less than 8 ounces, the Helium is one of the more refined models - waterproof zips, a usable hood, moderately breathable fabric, and articulated fit that's roomy enough for layering.
Summer hike where it may just rain? Spring ski tour with wet snow everywhere? The Outdoor Research Helium Rain Ultralight Jacket will stand up to the harshest conditions year after year and it’s so small, you’ll forget you have it in your pack. Folding up into the front pocket to the size of a baseball, you’ll never regret throwing this in the bottom of your pack or clipping it to your waist for the just in case scenario. I like this jacket because it only has the most necessary features and has built in stretch exactly where you need it. Through slushy winter storms and summer downpours this jacket has kept me dry and warm from the Swiss Alps to the windy Colorado Rockies. – Max Brand
Men's 20D stretch-woven nylon/spandex wind hoodie with trim fit, using bluesign approved 90% nylon / 10% spandex fabric, stowable hood with bonded brim, zip chest and hand pockets with chest pocket stuff sack, drawcord hem, stretch wrist cuffs, and 5.0 oz (142 g) weight, 29 in (73.7 cm) center back length.
The Outdoor Research Shadow Wind Hoodie windshirt is very similar to the famous Mountain Hardwear Kor Airshell, even down to the way it fits. Fabric feels the same, although OR doesn’t say what it is. The Shadow has three full pockets while Kor Airshell has only 2.5 (the small one is just for stuffing the jacket). That makes the Shadow a slight favorite for me. – Bill Budney
The Packa is a lightweight, rainproof jacket designed to double as a pack cover, providing full rain protection for both the wearer and their gear. Its unique design allows for easy access to pack pockets while keeping gear dry, making it ideal for hikers and backpackers in wet conditions.
This is the most sophisticated poncho available for purchase (and is now available in 15d silnylon (no PU) for a total weight of about ten ounces). It has long loose sleeves with cinchable cuffs and long pit zips, offering more ventilation and coverage options than most other sleeves. It is available in six sizes, so that it fits around a pack and person with room for ventilation but without a lot of excess fabric to flap in the wind. It can be worn under or over the pack, can attach to the pack, or be used standalone. It’s knee-length, has a full two-way front zipper, hood with two-way adjustments and a stiff visor that works. It is well-made and stuffs into its own ventilated pocket. – Bill Budney
Unisex fingerless sun gloves constructed from 4-way stretch 84% polyester / 16% spandex fabric with UPF 50+ rating, 100% polyester suede palms, thumbs and pointer fingers, specified for multisport use and incorporating bluesign-approved materials and Climate Label Certified brand designation.
These sungloves met four of my goals: to protect my hands from the sun, to provide a slight barrier to biting insects, to help avoid blisters, and to not spend much money. My wilderness trips this year were more paddling-focused so these became my second skin! – Anna Swarts
Ultralight synthetic insulation pant built from Polartec Alpha Direct 4004 fabric in a very open 90 gsm knit structure with tufted pile, offered in stock sizes Small–Large and selected 120 gsm variants, with a listed medium weight of approximately 4.5 oz (128 g).
Leg insulation can be tricky. Down pants work well for warmth during low exertion activities around camp, but they quickly overheat/sweat out if you try to use them while hiking. I find these Alpha Direct fleece pants from Timmermade to bridge the gap between down insulation and something lighter like merino wonderfully. They are warm enough to boost the efficiency of your sleep system considerably, but still light enough that you could wear them underneath softshell pants in cold weather. They also dry incredibly fast. – Atticus Lee
Waterproof unisex mid-calf gaiters using Flexia 3.0 3-layer breathable stretch ripstop uppers, 1000D nylon lowers, and YKK waterproof zippers, with webbing and buckle top closure, TPU-coated replaceable instep strap, lace hook, and listed weights from 9.1 to 11.4 oz (259–324 g) per pair.
These gaiters are tried and true. They are easy to use, waterproof, fit well, don’t come undone and look good too! In the backcountry they help protect my lower legs, are easy to clean, and keep my legs dry in tall wet grass and brush. Additionally, they can be used to sit on keeping my seat drier and cleaner, used under my inflatable pad for extra protection and they help my shoelaces stay tied too. They were a nice addition to my kit in the recent trip to RMNP. Money well spent! – Jeff de Graffenried
Midweight crew-height performance toesock with an anatomical five-toe design, cushioned footbed, supportive arch band, mesh knit panel on the top of the foot, and ribbed leg, constructed from 58% nylon, 39% Coolmax EcoMade polyester, and 3% Lycra.
Less friction between my toes and blisters means less wear and tear on my toes and more miles!! Not as weird as you think. My feet stay happy and warm! – Stephanie Jordan
MICROspikes Ghost is a chain-free full-foot footwear traction device using a TPU underfoot matrix and hybrid TPE/TPR harness with twelve 0.36 in (9 mm) heat-treated stainless steel spikes per foot, weighing 6.4–7.4 oz (179–208 g) per pair and packing to 4.5 x 4 x 2 in.
While I have limited use given these just released in September of this year, these have been very exciting. While the spikes have 20% less area meaning they offer reduced traction, I have not found it to negatively impact my experience – and the hare only half the weight of regular Microspikes! They held well in the icy paths in Rocky Mountain National Park leading to Chasm Lake. I don’t know about the durability of the rubber strips that replace chains, but with a four year warranty that should help inspire confidence. Hopefully when winter arrives, I will get more experience with these! – Stephen Seeber
Ultralight trail running and hiking gaiter offered in low and mid heights, using 86% stretch-woven recycled nylon / 14% polyurethane with PFAS-free C0 DWR, 3D two-piece pattern, side YKK Vislon zipper, TPU DuraLink instep strap, and pair weights from 1.7–2.7 oz (49–76 g).
I’ve been loving the Kahtoola Instagaiter Mid this year. I’ve tried lots of different gaiters, including very light ones with Velcro, and have been pretty unhappy with all of them. The Velcro always comes off when bushwhacking or creek crossing. The Instagaiter stays on no matter what, keeping sand, seeds, and debris out of my shoes. And the zipper miraculously just keeps on working despite the desert sand. Just swish it around in a creek to get the sand off the zipper before putting them back on. – Ben Kilbourne
Mountain running shoe with recycled airmesh upper, 4-way stretch scree guard and TPU FusionGate integrated lacing, recycled non-slip airmesh lining, Ortholite Hybrid insole, injection-molded EVA midsole with TPU stabilizer, FriXion XF 2.0 outsole with 6.5 mm lugs, 10 mm drop, about 11.2 oz (320 g).
The latest iteration of the La Sportiva Mutant is pretty good. It’s not perfect, but it’s good. The fit is WAY better than the previous version with a wider toe box, so most Americans don’t have to go up two sizes to get them to fit. The overall volume is still low, and that’s good for keeping the foot snugly in place. The sticky rubber performs well scrambling on slickrock. The 10mm drop is unnecessary and makes the heel tippy in some situations. The upper keeps almost all sand out, to my pleasant surprise. This shoe will be discontinued for a couple of years, but will return in a new iteration eventually. Let’s only hope they lower that drop to 8mm or less and round the toe even more so folks can size down closer to their normal size. If everything else about the shoe stayed the same, I’d be happy. – Ben Kilbourne
Although not lightweight compared to trail running shoes, these are light for a mountain boot. And having previously endured a combination of dislocated and broken ankles I’ll go with all the support I can get down there. The rolling gait on flats takes a while to get used to, but on steep, broken terrain the boots feel very nimble, surefooted and supportive. The HDry membrane appears to do its job — unless one steps in a bog deeper than the boot! My boot’s bright orange colour does elicit attention, and, oddly, favourable comment. – Warren McLaren
The Xero Shoes Mesa Trail II features a 5.5mm FeelTrue sole with 3.5mm lugs for ground feedback and traction, paired with a lightweight 218g design (men's size 9) to support trail runners and hikers seeking minimalist performance.
I’ve experimented with so-called barefoot footwear for more than a decade, but it’s only been the past two years that I’ve really committed to them. I now have more than a thousand backcountry miles in Xero Mesa Trail II Shoes, hundreds of which have been on steep and rocky trails, talus, and tundra. They aren’t my first choice for rugged alpine terrain while carrying a heavy pack, and there was a very long (several months) adaptation period. However, the long-term commitment has made my feet stronger, more resistant to injury, and more adaptable to switching across various types of footwear. While the Mesa Trail consistently falls into the realm of “training shoe” for me, it’s now an essential part of my strategy to maintain healthy feet as I age. – Ryan Jordan
Women's 15 in rubber Legacy boot built from triple-dipped latex neoprene for chemical, oil and acid resistance, with 100% waterproof construction, non-marking slip-resistant Chevron outsole, open-cell foam insole, 1 in heel, 15.5 in calf circumference, and average pair weight 1.85 lb.
I started wearing Xtratufs when I worked up in Alaska as a kayak guide, and after nearly 15 years of heavy use I’ve only recently replaced my first pair. They are great for everything from shoulder season wilderness canoeing to wet trail maintenance projects and tick prevention. Their close fit and flexibility helps keep splashes out and makes it easy to have confident footing in wet conditions. – Anna Swarts
A cult favorite in the ultralight community for its ease of use, pre-mix stability, efficacy against viruses, bacteria, and protozoan cysts, and its ability to impart better flavor and odor to bad water sources. Can be repackaged if using opaque PE dropper bottles.
This is a new addition to my kit. It’s easy to use, small, and keeps me safe. Once the liquids were transferred to a smaller bottle they were even more portable. In situations with extra dirty water, I use a cloth filter to remove larger material and then add AM to purify. Cheap, easy to use, highly portable and usable in freezing conditions. I removed my Sawyer Squeeze for this. – Jeff de Graffenried
One liter reusable HDPE bottle with 28 mm neck compatible with common inline water filters, slim rectangular profile for side or shoulder strap pockets, molded volume markings, tethered cap with pull cord, and listed weight 3.18 oz (90 g); BPA, BPS, and BPF free.
The CNOC Thru-Bottle is one of my top picks because it takes the popular SmartWater bottle form and makes it more durable and free of microplastics. It fits well in most backpack water bottle holders and works seamlessly with many of the water filters on the market. – Jeff Podmayer
28 W foldable monocrystalline portable solar charger using SunPower panels on 900D polyester backing with grommets and included carabiners, multiple 5V USB outputs for charging devices, folding to about 11.1 x 6.3 x 1.3–1.4 in and weighing roughly 1.48–1.5 lb (0.67–0.68 kg).
When you’re on a multi day backcountry trip and you’re carrying life saving safety and navigation electronic devices, you better have multiple ways to keep them charged. The BigBlue 28W Solar Panel Charger was a game changer for keeping all the devices juiced up during a summer paragliding and camping trip in the Austrian Alps. With lots of electronics getting drained every day, I was able to fuel up all my devices in the late afternoon sunlight in just a few hours and even when I was flying! Just tuck the foldable 671g panel in your side pocket or clip it to your backpack to charge up while hiking! – Max Brand
Clip-on rechargeable EDC light with three outputs, combining a 530-lumen floodlight, 450-lumen spotlight, and 800 mW UV light in one O-Aluminum housing, featuring a rotating magnetic mode selector, high-strength clip, N52 magnetic base, hanging loop, and USB-C charging.
I’ve been using this little light as a backup on my SAR pack and as a tent light backpacking for almost a year now. It’s really a really nice option because it’s multipurpose and rechargeable. I can clip it to a hat, a chest harness or from a tent loop. It has reasonable brightness and battery life for its size when used sparingly. – Emylene VanderVelden
The Black Diamond Storm 500-R Rechargeable Headlamp delivers up to 500 lumens with a maximum beam distance of 120 meters, powered by a 2400 mAh Li-ion battery rechargeable via micro-USB; it features proximity and distance modes, dimming, strobe, red/green/blue night vision, lock mode, PowerTap™ Technology for instant brightness adjustment, and an IP67 waterproof/dustproof rating.
My work with lighting this year revealed a lot of duds and a few gems in the lighting market. One of those gems was a headlamp that’s been in my arsenal for many years, but has been collecting a little dust in storage while I tested other lights. I restored the Storm 500-R to regular use and it has resumed its rightly spot as my top headlamp for extended lighting for alpine-start mountaineering and long nights on the move during the winter. – Ryan Jordan
Unisex descent-oriented touring ski with 97 mm average waist, 100% poplar core reinforced by Carbon Speed Stringer construction, full sidewalls and single-radius sidecut, with tip/tail rocker and listed weights from 1390–1540 g per ski depending on length.
These skis have been a great way to get out in late spring when lower elevation conditions are muddy, but there’s still too much snow for hiking in the high country, and the stuff in between is a total mess. They’re reasonably light so carrying them up to the snowline isn’t backbreaking and skinning uphill with them isn’t tortuous. They ski great in variable conditions when headed back down. My favorite place to take them is an old lookout tower where I can enjoy some great views and a respite from the elements. – Mark Wetherington
As a training complement to hiking, a mountain bike offers a welcome change from the gym. It is more fun than road cycling, it keeps you far from vehicles and immersed in nature, it has a lower physical impact than running, and it is an easy way to incorporate VO2 max training. For these reasons, mountain biking twice a week on and off trail has proven revelatory for me this year. If you have some experience, you may appreciate an ultralight, full carbon, full suspension, cross-country bicycle like my Specialized Epic World Cup Expert; otherwise there are great entry-level and mid-range aluminum hardtails that will help you negotiate just about any trail. – Atif Khan
This has been my go-to this year for long days exposed to the sun in alpine and glaciated terrain. It provides excellent protection, spreads easily, and feels light and soft on the skin. I usually transfer a small amount into a 1oz container for shorter trips. – Jeff Podmayer
Unisex adjustable three-section folding trekking poles with 100% carbon shafts, FlickLock+ length adjustment and speed-cone deployment, lightweight EVA foam grip and extension with recycled nylon straps, interchangeable carbide and rubber tech tips, and pair weights from 10.9–12.8 oz (308–364 g).
After a decade with Black Diamond’s Alpine Carbon Cork poles, I switched to the Distance Carbon FLZ about 18 months ago. The lighter swing weight, slim foam grips, and simple/comfortable straps hooked me immediately. Since then I’ve come to trust their stiffness and love how tiny they pack when I shove them into the front pocket of my pack.
If I’m above treeline with a shelter that needs pole support, I will still grab the Alpines. Outside of that use case, these lighter FLZs are the ones I am reaching for these days. – Matthew King
The Black Diamond Carbon Distance FLZ Poles have been my go-to hiking poles for the last few years. The low weight is noticeable when really putting in the miles. Even though they’re fixed length, I can pitch my Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp with them no problem. – Ben Kilbourne
A compact 3-axis (3D) accelerometer pedometer that uses multi-direction motion sensing to count steps accurately in most orientations (vertical/horizontal/tilted), typically displaying steps, distance, calories, and time on an LCD.
I was overestimating my step count until I got a step counter. On non-hiking days I aim for 15,000 to 20,000 steps for fat loss and overall strength. The Neskla Pedometer is reliable, but I suppose any will do. – Atif Khan
65 L roll-top river dry bag constructed from heavy-duty 21 oz TobaTex body with 34 oz TobaTex reinforced bottom, using StormStrip fold-down closure, four compression straps with aluminum fasteners, removable backpack harness with padded shoulder straps, and listed weight 3.8 lb (1724 g).
Even though it isn’t ultralight, I’ve found that this dry bag has been awesome for streamlining and simplifying my wilderness canoe adventures. The simple, rugged design allows it to accommodate varied trip lengths, and its shape and straps make for easy packing in a boat and allow me to wear it comfortably while portaging my canoe. Packing light, having a bag that doesn’t soak up water, and being able to make portages in a single trip greatly increases the distance I can make it into the backcountry. – Anna Swarts
Armless sunglasses with TR-90 frame and integrated recycled marine-grade cord, featuring Carl Zeiss polarized lenses with 100% UVA/UVB protection, ANSI Z87.1 safety rating, oleophobic and scratch-resistant hard coating, available in two frame sizes, weighing 0.8 oz (22.5 g) and made in Italy.
No pressure headaches from these sunglasses, especially during winter hiking, when I need to wear my fleece beanie and a Buff to cover my ears. Fits nicely, whether my hair is up in a ponytail or worn down. Most comfortable glasses I’ve ever worn for outdoor sports. – Stephanie Jordan
Small Home Gym
No single change to my regimen has yielded more benefit than strength training three times a week. A squat rack, deadlift bar, and bench press fits into the corner of your home, and makes any hike easier. Focus on compound lifts and add isolated lifts as you progress. – Atif Khan
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