Articles (2020)

Granite Gear Vapor Trail Review

Overview

vapor trail pack
Granite Gear Vapor Trail (manufacturer’s photo).

The Granite Gear Vapor Trail uses a flexible high-density polyethylene (HDPE) framesheet in combination with a virtual frame to transfer the load to your hips. When packed with 30 pounds (14 kg) or less, the harness design, frame sheet, compression strap system/virtual frame, and load lifter straps work well together to create a comfortable carry. Our primary reviewer found the Vapor Trail pack to be very comfortable and more amenable to the female body than most ultralight packs. In the past, other internal frame packs have bruised her hips and pulled at her shoulders. The flexible HDPE plastic framesheet strikes a compromise between light weight and flexibility to move with your torso but still provide enough ‘frame’ to transfer load to your hips when the pack is fully compressed.

The Vapor Trail has one of the best external hydration pockets we’ve seen on a pack. It doesn’t take away pack volume, sits close to your back for balance, and you can remove the bladder without opening the pack or removing any gear!

The Granite Gear Vapor Trail is made with more rugged fabrics than many packs in its weight class, with substantial fabric reinforcements in the abrasion-prone areas of the pack’s bottom panel, lower sides, and rear panel. The Vapor Trail is suitable, both in load carrying capability and features, for backpacking, off-trail scrambling, and alpine climbing. Major weaknesses of this pack include shoulder strap attachment points that are too low on the backpanel, contributing to poor load lifter strap performance when the pack is under packed, and limited external pocket storage for commonly accessed items. Admittedly, climbers and minimalists may love the pack’s current pocket configuration.

Specifications

ā€¢ Backpack Style

 internal frame pack (framesheet), top-loading with roll-top closure.

ā€¢ Fabric Description

 210d, 6.5 oz/yd2 (221 g/m2) Cordura nylon/polyester blend in high stress (shoulder strap and compression strap attachments) and high wear (rear pack panel, bottom of the pack) areas; 70d 2.4 oz/yd2 (81 g/m2) silicone coated nylon in the packbag. 8.5 oz/yd2 (288 g/m2) Durastretch (four way stretch nylon) on side pockets.

ā€¢ Sizes (Size Short tested)
Sizes Torso Length (in) Torso Length (cm)
Short 15-18 38-46
Regular 18-21 46-53
Long 21-25 53-64

ā€¢ Volume (Size Short tested)
Sizes Volume (ci) Volume (L)
Short 3,300 54
Regular 3,600 59
Long 3,900 64

ā€¢ Weight (Size Short tested)
Sizes Backpacking Light MeasuredĀ ozĀ (g) Manufacturer SpecificationĀ ozĀ (g)
Short 32.2 (921) 30 (850)
Regular Not measured 32 (907)
Long Not measured 34 (964)

ā€¢ Volume to Weight Ratio

 102 ci/oz (based on 3300 ci and a measured weight of 32.2 oz)

ā€¢ Load Carrying Capacity

 35 lbs (16 kg) is a reasonable limit for the average user if a good virtual frame is used to supplement the framesheet. It may be pushed to as much as 40 lbs (18 kg) for hikers who find weight on their shoulders tolerable. Granite Gear claims 30 lbs (14 kg).

ā€¢ Carry Load to Pack Weight Performance Ratio

 17 (based on 35 lbs and a measured weight of 32.2 oz)

ā€¢ MSRP

 $150

ā€¢ Manufacturer’s Contact Information

 Granite Gear, 218-834-6157
http://www.granitegear.com

Features

Numerical ratings follow on a scale of 1 to 5 (1=poor, 5=excellent), and are relative to other internal frame packs tested by Backpacking Light.

Frame and Suspension – 4.0

The Vapor Trail’s anatomically curved shoulder straps are more padded (0.5 in, 1.2 cm thick) than those found on many lightweight internal frame packs. With the pack properly loaded and compressed, the load lifter straps pull the pack close to your back for optimal pack stability and balance while hiking or scrambling on rough terrain. Shoulder straps are attached to the top of the frame sheet but well below the top of the pack and the load lifter straps attachment points. In our opinion, the shoulder straps are attached too low and negate the ability of the load lifter straps to maintain stability (tension) in the upper portion of the pack when the upper portion of the pack is not tightly packed and compressed. Fortunately, this problem can be alleviated in large part by properly adjusting the upper compression system so the section between the top of the frame sheet and the load lifter attachment points is rigid.

We found the well padded, 4 inch (10 cm) wide and 7/8 inch (2 cm) thick, hipbelt provided good load transfer to our hips for loads of up to 30 pounds (14 kg), providing the pack’s compression system was properly used to create a virtual frame to supplement the somewhat flexible framesheet’s performance. Ultralight hikers, who are used to minimal or no hipbelts, will appreciate the well-padded belt found on the Vapor Trail.

The Vapor Trail’s soft foam back panel padding and padded ergonomic harness are more comfortable than those used in many ultralight framed backpacks, especially those in the 2 pound (0.9 kg) range. Alison, the lead tester for the Vapor Trail, found the well-padded hipbelt exceptionally comfortable on her bruise-prone hips. The 2.5 inch wide (6 cm) and 1/2 inch thick (1.2 cm) anatomically curved and padded shoulder straps are a boon to sensitive shoulders as pack weight increases and more weight inevitably gets transferred to the shoulders.

Usable Features and Ease of Use – 3.5

side pockets
Granite Gear Vapor Trail showing side pocket in use and rear compression straps securing a sleeping pad.

Granite Gear’s Vapor Trail has features that will appeal to hikers and climbers alike. The Vapor Trail has Durastretch side pockets that, when used in combination with side compression straps, are suitable for long, skinny items like tent poles, a fishing rod, trekking poles, or snow anchors. The side pockets are capable of carrying 1-liter water bottles. However, they are covered by the lower side panel compression straps, making it quite a feat to remove and replace a water bottle while wearing the pack. The rear compression straps are ideal for holding bulky and large items like a wet tarp or an additional sleeping mat (e.g., on a snow trip).

The Vapor Trail has most of the features one would want in an off-trail and alpine climbing backpack – durable fabric in high wear areas, dual tool loops, a reasonably slim profile for good balance and arm swing clearance, large capacity, a versatile compression system, and easy climbing rope attachment using the top and side compression straps. When the Vapor Trail was properly packed with a full load, we found its load control and pack stability were excellent for off-trail scrambling, bushwhacking, and climbing.

The Vapor Trail has an additional pocket behind the padded backpanel, accessible from the outside, that will accommodate a full three-liter Platypus bladder comfortably. This setup is one of the best hydration pockets we’ve used, allowing easy access to a bladder without unpacking or opening anything. The water is held close to your back for good balance and is insulated by the foam backpanel and pack contents. This excellent, albeit unintentional, hydration pocket significantly improves the pack’s rating in this category. In addition, it leaves the side pockets free of water bottles and available for storage of other items.

Load Volume Flexibility (Compression) – 5.0

The Granite Gear Vapor Tail’s effective compression system controls loads of almost any size, keeping even day-sized loads stable. With eight compression straps, and two catenary compression panels, the Vapor Trail’s ability to stabilize a load in unmatched by most internal frame backpacks on the market. The dual top closure straps compress the top of the pack effectively, playing an essential role in maximizing the effectiveness of the shoulder strap load lifters.

Field Performance

The Vapor Trail was tested in the High Sierras, the Blue Ridge Mountains of the Northeast, and along the Ice Age Trail in the Midwest. Conditions encountered included difficult off-trail travel over rock, ice, snow, scree slogs, and some serious bushwhacking.

Pack Load Carrying – 3.5

Granite Gear rates the Vapor Trail load carrying capacity at 30 pounds (14 kg). With its sturdy hip belt, well-padded and ergonomic harness, and combination framesheet/virtual frame, the Vapor Trail handles 30-pound (14 kg) loads with ease. If one can tolerate a bit of weight on their shoulders, and a good virtual frame has been created, 40 pounds (18 kg) can be carried without too much discomfort. Overall, we estimate that 35 pounds (16 kg) is a reasonable limit for the average user if a good virtual frame is used to supplement the framesheet.

The Vapor Trail’s compression system can compress the packbag to create a nearly rigid pack enhancing the framesheet’s performance and efficiently transferring the load between shoulders and hips. Pulling the pack tight to the back allows for excellent load control and wearer balance when carrying loads up to 30 pounds.

Durability – 3.5

climbing with the VT
Fabric Ruggedness: Climbing down a Class III col in the High Sierras. The Granite gear’s durable fabric and excellent load control is an asset.

The only thing holding the Granite Gear Vapor Trail back from a higher durability rating is the use of silicone coated nylon fabric in the pack body. Even so, fabric reinforcements in key areas make the Vapor Trail suitable for alpine scrambling and bushwhacking in conditions where you won’t constantly drag your pack against sharp rock or plow pack-first into groves of slide alder. The Granite Gear Vapor Trail uses a more tear and abrasion resistant 2.4 oz/yd2 (81 g/m2) silnylon as compared to the more common 1.3 to 1.7 oz/yd2 (44 – 58 g/m2) fabrics used by other manufacturers. Cordura (6.5 oz/yd2, 221 g/m2) is used in high wear areas, such as the bottom, back panel, and much of the rear panel. The Durastretch side pockets protect the silnylon on the lower side panels. Still, the pack has some of the lighter fabric exposed, and as strong as it is relative to lighter silicone coated nylons, it won’t withstand repeated abrasion.

Value – 4.0

At only $150 we think the Granite Gear Vapor Trail is a good value. For its weight, the Vapor Trail provides efficient load transfer to the hips, offers a comfortable harness, is durably constructed, and offers a versatile compression system suitable for a wide range of load sizes. The Vapor Trail’s durability, climbing friendly amenities, stability, and minimalist design will appeal to aggressive off-trail travelers and fast and light climbers who don’t overly abuse their packs. We especially like the Vapor Trail’s external hydration pocket.

Recommendations for Improvement

  • The Vapor Trail’s lower compression straps run over the top of the side pockets. If you have these compression straps tightened down, you’ll need to loosen them to access pocket contents, a nearly impossible task to perform while hiking. We suggest moving these straps up to clear the top of the pockets.
  • The lower portion of the pack is prone to abrasion (e.g., sliding down a steep slope) and would benefit from tougher fabric in the region below the lowest compression straps.
  • While adaptable to a wider range of torso sizes than other frameless packs, the Granite Gear Vapor Trail’s shoulder strap-and-load-lifter system is quite sensitive to torso collapse when the pack is under-loaded or improperly packed, making the Vapor Trail more appropriate for lightweight hikers who pay a reasonable amount of attention to packing their pack. Extending the frame sheet to the top of the pack and raising the shoulder strap attachment points would increase the pack’s load carrying capacity.
  • In lieu of the solid side pockets, we’d prefer to see mesh pockets that better expand and contract to different volumes and allow us the capability to see what is in the pockets.

Mountainsmith Auspex Review

Overview

auspex in the fieldauspex
Photo 1: Mountainsmith Auspex

The Mountainsmith Auspex is a top-loading internal framed pack offering extensive options and exceptional load carrying capability at a lighter weight than many of its competitors. While there are many packs that weigh less than the 4.1 pound (1.85 kg) Auspex, you will be hard-pressed to find one with as many features – convertible top lid, tough abrasion-resistant fabrics, an innovative bungee system, hydration system capability, water-resistant zippers, side panel access, and the ability to carry 65 pounds (30 kg). If you are a 20 pound (9 kg)-carrying fastpacker, the Auspex will be way more than you need or want. The Auspex is a light expedition worthy pack that is also ideal for climbing or mountaineering.

Specifications

ā€¢ Backpack Style

 Internal frame, top-loading with side panel zipper access.

ā€¢ Fabric Description

 Pack body constructed of Dimension Polyant x-Pac VX-21 and VX-42 fabrics that utilize a 3-ply design with a grid of high tenacity fibers in the middle (somewhat like Spectra). High tenacity nylon is used for the bottom and other high wear areas. Breathable Brock foam and nylon mesh are used at contact points for moisture transport.

ā€¢ Sizes (Size LT tested)
Sizes Torso Length (in) Torso Length (cm)
LT 19-22 48-56
MT 17-19.5 43-50
Chimera (Women) 15-17 38-43

ā€¢ Volume (Size LT tested)
Sizes Volume (ci) Volume (L)
LT 4,000 66
MT 3,850 63
Chimera (Women) 3,600 59

ā€¢ Weight (Size LT tested)
Sizes Backpacking Light MeasuredĀ oz/yd2Ā (kg) Manufacturer SpecificationĀ oz/yd2Ā (kg)
LT 65.3 (1.85) 64 (1.81)
MT Not measured 63 (1.79)
Chimera (Women) Not measured 58 (1.64)

ā€¢ Volume to Weight Ratio

 61 ci/oz/yd2, size LT (based on 4,000 ci and Backpacking Light measured weight of 65.3 oz/yd2)

ā€¢ Load Carrying Capacity

 60-65 lbs (27-30 kg) as estimated by Backpacking Light.

ā€¢ Carry Load to Pack Weight Performance Ratio

 16 (based on 65 lbs and Backpacking Light measured weight of 65.3 oz/yd2)

ā€¢ MSRP

 $230

ā€¢ Manufacturer’s Contact Information

 Mountainsmith
(800) 551-5889
http://www.mountainsmith.com

Features

Ratings follow on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the best, and are relative to other Backpacking Light tested framed packs.

Frame and Suspension – 4.5

pack framesuspension system

Photo 2 (left): The Auspex makes minimal contact with the user’s back creating greater airflow along the back panel. The exposed frame stays need to be adjusted for each user and can take some getting used to.

Photo 3: The waist belt of the size LT Auspex is supportive but large for a 34 inch (86 cm) waist.

The Auspex pack utilizes Mountainsmith’s Mountainlight suspension system. This system consists of two corrugated aluminum stays, a plastic mid-panel framesheet, padded shoulder straps, and a wide padded hipbelt. The stays are exposed in the lower section of the pack, and the hipbelt and upper shoulder pads are the only body contact points (Photo 2). The back panel is much more airy than a traditional full-contact design. Brock foam and nylon mesh, used for the shoulder and hipbelt padding, transports moisture and keeps the pack dry against your skin, even when worn without a shirt.

Side compression straps and a back bungee work together to keep loads compact. With the Auspex properly loaded and compressed, the load lifter straps and hipbelt stabilizers pull the pack close to your back for optimal pack stability and balance when hiking or scrambling on rough terrain. Torso length can be adjusted by moving the shoulder straps up or down along the two exposed corrugated stays. The sternum strap adjusts vertically along a unique piping channel, which offers no technical advantage but looks great. Stays are removable, but it is not an easy task. The user will most likely remove them once for bending and then leave them in the Auspex. It is essential to properly adjust the exposed stays to your back; one reviewer felt the non-adjusted stays jam into his back (Photo 2) on an extended hike. Another repeatedly hit his elbow when donning the pack at first, but then adjusted to the design.

Usable Features and Ease of Use – 4.5

fanny pack
Photo 4: The Auspex’s top lid converts into a very functional fanny pack without the need to remove the hip belt.

The Auspex is full of many usable features often found in much heavier packs. It has a floating top lid with two pockets. The top pocket has a water-resistant zipper and is accessible while wearing the pack. Another pocket, hidden underneath the top hood, is constructed of mesh for easy viewing of the contents and includes an internal key clip. The top lid converts to a convenient fanny pack for day tripping (Photo 4).

Convenient side pockets hold items such as a wind shirt or water bottle securely and are protected by high-tenacity nylon on the bottom for durability. The side pockets are easily accessible while wearing the pack. The Auspex is hydration system-friendly with a removable internal hydration sleeve and shingled exit ports on each side of the pack body. Elastic loops integrated into the shoulder straps keep hydration hoses secured and within easy reach. A water-resistant panel loading side zipper allows access to items inside the main body of the pack; however, our reviewers found it easier to access items through the top as the water-resistant coating makes the zipper stiff. The Auspex includes two ice-axe loops at the bottom of the pack’s back.

Although these features make the Auspex usable over a wider range of backcountry adventures, the added features increase the pack’s weight. The typical lightweight backpacker will find these features get in the way more often than they are needed.

The shock cord on the back of the pack is quickly removable from the side attachments making it easy to attach large objects, such as sleeping pads or tents, without the need to feed the items through a web of cords (Photo 5). Simply remove the cord attachments from one side, center the object on the pack, reattach the cords, tighten the one-handed cord lock, and the hiker is ready to go.

bungee cordsbungee cords

Photo 5: The bungee system is very easy to use – just undo the cords, add your item, reattach, and cinch!

Load Volume Flexibility (Compression) – 4.0

The Auspex’s effective compression system allows it to comfortably carry loads much smaller than the maximum capacity. By tightening the side compression straps, tightening the bungee system, and leaving the top lid empty, the user can comfortably carry even day-sized loads with great stability. Because the aluminum stays are difficult to remove, the Auspex remains tall and stiff while carrying these minimal loads. With large volume loads, the exterior side pockets, top lid pocket, and shock cords across the back provide suitable expansion of an already large (by lightweight standards) pack.

Field Performance

Pack Load Carrying – 5.0

The Auspex can haul heavy loads with ease. During one field session on the badly washed out Enchanted Valley trail in Olympic National Park, a reviewer carried both his and his wife’s loads (approximately 35 lbs, 16 kg) in complete comfort. In an effort to find the pack’s carrying limit, the pack was filled with 50 pounds (23 kg) of water and rocks . Even with the rough terrain, the Auspex did not flex and carried the weight comfortably. In further tests, the pack was filled with 65 pounds (30 kg) of water and weights and taken for several miles on local trails. The Auspex carried this load comfortably. We think it could probably carry even more. Through the full range of loads carried, the wide hip belt and high-density foam shoulder straps transferred the weight as comfortably as packs weighing much more. The Auspex is a true expedition worthy load hauler. In addition, its compression system and slim pack design kept the load close to the user’s back for a good center of gravity.

Durability – 5.0

After extensive use, Mountainsmith’s Auspex only showed slight fraying in the piping that frames the base of the pack. All straps are internally sewn into piping which is very strong. The use of highly abrasion-resistant Dimension Polyant x-Pac fabrics enables the Mountainsmith pack to hold up well, even in off-trail hiking and climbing. Heavier high-tenacity nylon is used on the bottom of the pack for further durability in this high wear area.

The reinforced x-Pac fabric used behind the bungee made it possible to carry crampons without a reinforced bag. This narrow, durable pack makes an excellent companion for climbing trips.

Value – 4.0

At $230, the Auspex is not an inexpensive pack. However, you are getting all the bells and whistles such as waterproof zippers, convertible top lid/fanny pack, bungee system, durability, side access, high tech fabrics, and a suspension system that can handle expedition weight loads. Further, this is accomplished at just a hair over 4 pounds (1.85 kg). As a lightweight expedition pack, the Auspex is an excellent value.

Recommendations for Improvement

Mountainsmith has hit their target market quite well with the Auspex pack. While not as light as some other packs, you would have to eliminate features and durability to bring the weight down; this is simply not Mountainsmith’s goal with this pack. Our only concern with the Auspex is the exposed frame stays. During testing, we repeatedly scraped our triceps against the sharp stay edges, especially when the pack was filled to capacity. A better design would have the stays covered in soft fabric or at least sanded smooth along the edges.

Gossamer Gear Mariposa Backpack Review

Mariposa
Photo 1: Gossamer Gear Mariposa

Overview

The Gossamer Gear (formerly GVP Gear) Mariposa represents a significant step forward in the ultralight backpacking industry; a 1-pound (0.5 kg) pack capable of carrying loads up to 30 pounds (14 kg) in reasonable comfort. Gossamer Gear does this without losing features like full peripheral pockets, padded hip belt, bear canister compatibility, and an ice axe loop (Photo 1).

The key to this carrying capacity: two carbon fiber stays combine with the hiker’s sleeping pad to form a rigid frame that effectively transfers pack weight to the hipbelt. Another innovation is the use of pad pockets on the shoulder straps and hip belt that permit exchanging the included closed cell foam pads with articles of clothing, thus leaving the padding weight at home. Further weight is reduced by the use of 1.3 oz/yd2 (44 g/m2) silnylon for most of the pack body (oxford cloth is used in key stress/wear areas). Obviously, a pack made of such lightweight material is not designed to handle the rigors of off trail backpacking and climbing. One gripe: the harness on the prototype Mariposa tested was not a great fit. We’ve talked with Gossamer Gear and expect a few tweaks will significantly improve comfort on production packs.

Specifications

  • Backpack Style
    		•  Internal frame, top-loading pack with roll-top closure

  • Fabric Description
    		•  40d 1.3 oz/yd2 (44 g/m2) silnylon and selected use of 210d 4 oz/yd2 (136 g/m2) urethane-coated ripstop nylon

  • Sizes (Size M tested (prototype))
    		•
    Sizes Torso Length (in) Torso Length (cm)
    S 16-19 41-48
    M 18-22 46-56
    L 20-24 51-61

  • Volume (Size M tested (prototype))
    		•
    Sizes Volume (ci) Volume (L)
    S,M,L 4,200 69

  • Weight (Size M tested (prototype))
    		•
    Component Measured
    Weight oz (g)    		 Manufacturer Specification
    Weight oz (g)
    Pack complete 17.0 (482) 17.4 (493)
    Pack stripped 14.9 (422) 14.6 (414)
    Stays 0.9 (26) pair 0.8 (23) pair
    Hip belt pads 0.3 (9) pair 0.4 (11) pair
    Shoulder pads 0.4 (11) pair 0.4 (11) pair
    Sternum strap 0.5 (14) 0.5 (14)

  • Volume to Weight Ratio
    		•  247 ci/oz size M (Based on 4,200 ci, size M, and Backpacking Light measured weight of 17.0 oz)

  • Load Carrying Capacity
    		•  30 lbs (13.6 kg), maximum comfortable carrying capacity as determined by Backpacking Light.
    Manufacturer claims 40 pounds (18.1 kg) maximum carrying capacity and Backpacking Light agrees the Mariposa will carry it, but with reduced comfort and with greater concern for fabric failure.

  • Carry Load to Pack Weight Performance Ratio
    		•  28 (based on 30 lbs and Backpacking Light measured weight of 17.0 oz)

  • MSRP
    		•  approximately $140, price not set at time of review

  • Manufacturer’s Contact Information
    		•  Gossamer Gear, 877-ULTRA-LT, http://www.gossamergear.com

    Features

    Ratings follow subtitles on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the best, and are relative to other Backpacking Light tested internal framed packs.

    Frame and Suspension – 3.5 (pre production) 4.0 (if production changes made)

    Gossamer Gear’s Mariposa uses an innovative frame and suspension setup to comfortably carry loads up to 30 pounds (13.6 kg) in a pack weighing just a shade over 1 pound (0.5 kg). Currently, only two other pack manufacturers are employing similar frame designs (Six Moon Designs Starlite and ULA Fusion). The Mariposa integrates the user’s sleeping pad with two hollow carbon fiber frame stays to create a rigid back panel. The pack’s pocketed back panel has an opening slit in the center, where a sleeping pad is inserted, first into the bottom half and then into the top. Most thin 3/4-length closed cell foam (i.e. RidgeRest or Z-Rest) or any length rectangular, self-inflating pads should fit. This pocket measures 11 inches wide by 20 inches high (28 x 51 cm). If a self-inflating pad is used it has to be inflated before inserting, as there is no opening in the pocket to gain access to the valve. Inserting a sleeping pad into this pocket is slightly cumbersome, but the design is extremely light and simple.

    The two carbon fiber stays look similar to carbon arrow shafts, but are nicely finished on both ends with a dome-shaped aluminum cap. The shape and smoothness of the caps prevent inadvertent fabric wear within the stay sleeves; an important consideration in such a light-fabric pack. The stays are easily removable by opening the Velcro closure at the tops of each stay pocket. It is not possible to reshape them, though the sleeping pad tends to conform to one’s back shape to some extent.

    The back panel/pad pocket material is mesh. This material is thin and the portion of the sleeping pad, between the upper and lower sleeves is directly against the user’s back. The type of sleeping pad selected will determine pack comfort while on the trail. Closed cell foam pads that contain ridges and valleys offer some additional breathability over the self-inflating types, a relief when hiking in hot weather.

    The Gossamer Gear’s harness sets it apart from most lightweight packs. Upon first inspection it appears simple, but this belies a sophisticated design. You can use gloves, socks, or other articles of clothing to replace the closed cell foam inserts (included) in the shoulder straps and hipbelt. This saves the weight of the foam padding and even gives you some extra pack room.

    the harness
    Photo 2: The Gossamer Gear Mariposa shoulder straps require something inserted into the shoulder pad pockets in order to maintain their full width and comfort. Shown here, the pad on the right (subject’s left) contains a thin polypropylene balaclava. The strap on the left is empty.

    The Mariposa has a removable sternum strap with a safety whistle. Both the shoulder straps and hipbelt are sewn onto the back panel. Thus, the harness does not adjust to accommodate varying torso lengths. It also lacks shoulder strap and hip belt stabilizers. Unnoticed initially are Velcro openings along the seams of both the shoulder straps and hip belt, which allow the user to remove the padding to save weight. My first unfounded concern was that my clean socks were going to get soaked with sweat before I had an opportunity to wear them. However, a layer of 1.3 oz/yd2 (44 g/m2) silnylon lines the inside of these pockets to keep the contents dry. In addition, the shoulder straps are a whopping 3.5-inches (9 cm) wide at their contact point. With lighter loads, many users will find the padding unnecessary. I was also concerned that articles of clothing used to replace the closed cell foam would not provide enough padding for comfort. Because the shoulder pads are so wide, the “padding” need only spread out the shoulder straps and keep them wide (Photo 2). In our testing, a shoulder strap without any padding would curl and become narrower, concentrating the pack weight on a smaller area and increasing discomfort. However, with as little as a thin polypropylene balaclava, the straps would maintain their full width and evenly distribute the load. Care must be taken to insert and remove clothing items without snagging them on the Velcro openings. You can also put the item in a light baggie to solve this problem and keep the article extra dry.

    The fit was not perfect with our “pre-production, prototype” Mariposa. While the fit of the prototype will be discussed here, we have spoken with Gossamer Gear to learn others have expressed similar concerns with the prototypes and production runs will be corrected. With that said, the hip belt is sized fairly large on the size Medium prototype tested. With the padding removed, the hip belt was too big for my 33-inch (84 cm) waist. Even with the foam pads inserted, the adjustment straps would bottom out before the hip belt was completely snug. Production runs will have a slightly shorter hip belt (padded portion), which will alleviate this concern. Also, the webbing that the sternum strap adjusted on was too high. Referring to Photo 2, the sternum strap is at the bottom of the adjustment webbing, which is attached to each shoulder strap. Notice that the strap is well above the center of the wearer’s chest with nowhere to adjust but up to the neck. Again, production models should be corrected in this area.

    Usable Features and Ease of Use – 4.0

    Even at 17.0 oz (482 g), the Gossamer Gear Mariposa is still a full-featured pack. It has a total of four external nylon mesh pockets, not including the pad pocket and harness padding pockets. The pockets serve two purposes-to provide convenient storage and retrieval of frequently needed items and to protect the lower portion of 1.3 oz/yd2 (44 g/m2) silnylon making up the pack body. The lower back is covered with a large pocket suitable for storing wet tarps and the like. On the left side panel, a long 13-inch (33-cm) pocket provides enough room for a 2-liter water bladder. There are two pockets to protect the right side panel, one above the other. The lower 1-liter water bottle pocket is easily accessed while wearing the pack. A thinner map and compass sized pocket is above that.

    The pre-production sample received for this review did not include the internal hydration pocket that will be found on production models. The hydration pocket will be constructed out of 1.3 oz/yd2 (44 g/m2) silnylon, be non-removable, and will include two drinking tube ports. Since it is going to be made of silnylon, we don’t expect it to add much weight (approximately 0.2 oz, 6 g).

    The back pocket is covered by a removable shock cord, which provides some minimal compression and an additional location for storing wet gear. The shock cord is laced through grosgrain attachment points located along both vertical seams on the back. These attachments points are repeated down each vertical seam on either side of the back panel, at the front of the side panels. These offer additional gear securing options and because they are tied into the 210 denier nylon oxford fabric, they are a more durable attachment point. These can be used to attach the tops of long items (trekking or tent poles) that are inserted into the side pockets, as an additional location for compression shock cords, or as a convenient location for one’s bandana or towel. Use your imagination.

    For those who like to venture over ice and snow, a single ice axe loop is centrally located below the large back pocket. It could also be used as a place to attach adjustable trekking poles. When the back pocket is full, items attached to this loop are pushed away from the pack by the pocket contents. Attachment for other climbing hardware is not provided. A single haul loop is included between the shoulder straps.

    The top of the Mariposa closes like a stuff sack, with a draw cord closure. The top of the pack is then secured with a Y-shaped compression strap. This grosgrain-webbing strap attaches at the top of each shoulder strap and extends all the way to the bottom of the large back pocket. In addition to compressing the pack, its wider profile across the top provides storage for larger items, like a bear canister, that might sit on top of the pack.

    Load Volume Flexibility (Compression) – 2.5

    The Gossamer Gear Mariposa can adjust to varying volume loads, though this is not its strong suit. To adjust to smaller loads, the contents initially stored in the mesh exterior pockets can be brought to the inside and the single top compression strap tightened. This, combined with tightening the back shock cord, is the only means of converting this pack to daypack dimensions. Heavier items will tend to stretch out the shock cord rendering compression less effective. Because of the limited number of compression straps, the fully compressed Mariposa looks lumpy. Very small volumes do not compress well to the point of having loose contents in the pack. Larger loads that exceed the pack body’s 2,900 cubic inch (48 L) main volume, can overflow into the 500 cubic inch (8 L) mesh pockets and 800 cubic inch (13 L) extension collar, with the remaining gear attached using various shock cord arrangements, before resorting to hand carrying gear.

    not full
    Photo 3: The Gossamer Gear Mariposa, fully compressed, on a return trip from collecting water. One can see some limitation in the compression system for small dense loads.

    Field Performance

    Pack Load Carrying – 4.0

    The Mariposa was tested while carrying weights ranging from 15 to 40 pounds (7 to 18 kg). We tested it both properly loaded approaching full volume, and with small volume, dense loads (i.e. water hauling trips). Although Gossamer Gear rates this pack as able to carry 40 pounds, we find this weight pushes the limits of the Mariposa. Here we evaluate the comfort of the different suspension components, as some hikers will have higher tolerances for discomfort in different areas. With the foam padding inserts, the shoulder straps and hip belt can comfortably carry up to 35 pounds (16 kg). It would seem replacing the foam padding with articles of clothing would greatly reduce the carrying comfort. Actually, the wide 3.5-inch (8.9 cm) straps dissipate the pack weight so well they only need enough “padding” in them to maintain their wide shape. Thus, with articles of clothing filling the shoulder straps and hip belt, we feel they are still comfortable supporting pack loads of up to 35 pounds. The frame stays remain solid up beyond 40 pounds and are not contributors to discomfort. Although the frame stays remain stiff at 40 pounds, the sleeping pad does not. Beginning at 30 pounds (14 kg), and after several miles, we find the sleeping pad within the Mariposa’s back panel collapses a bit and bulges in a way that does not complement the shape of one’s back. While we found it uncomfortable, it was not a level of discomfort that made carrying the pack miserable. It is appropriate to state that the Mariposa is capable of carrying weight upwards of 40 pounds for short legs of a trip where extra water or food is needed. Nevertheless, we found this pack performs best with weights at or below 30 pounds.

    The Mariposa does not have a compression system that fully compresses and controls small, heavy loads. This pack’s ability to stabilize this type of load was exceeded at weights above 15 pounds (7 kg). Therefore, while short trips for water are acceptable with this pack, using it as a daypack or for a summit push may not be appropriate. Gossamer Gear did not design the Mariposa with carrying small, heavy loads as a requirement.

    Durability – 2.0

    A tradeoff with most lightweight packs is fabric durability. Gossamer Gear’s Mariposa is no exception; however, design elements are in place to minimize the 1.3 oz/yd2 (44 g/m2) silnylon fabric from exposure to fabric destroying elements. Both the bottom and back panel of the Mariposa are covered by the relatively more durable 210 denier coated oxford. These areas are exposed to abrasion from the ground and fabric stress from the harness and internal stays. The silnylon, which is used for both side panels and the back, is partially protected by the nylon mesh pockets from the bottom of the pack up to 13-inches (33 cm) high. Assuming these pockets are completely empty, the silnylon can possibly be damaged through the mesh but to a limited extent. The real vulnerable areas are on the upper back and side panels above the 13-inch high pockets. Low branches can wreck havoc on the upper end of this pack.

    This pack is not well suited as a climbing pack or for off-trail bushwhacking. Frequent contact with rock, trees, and other abrasive surfaces will eventually cause fabric failure. This was not the intended purpose of the Gossamer Gear Mariposa, which was designed to meet the needs of long distance trail hikers interested in reduced weight. If you are looking for a lightweight climbing pack, this is not it.

    Value – 3.5

    Considering the weight of the Mariposa, you don’t get much for your money, and we like that. Although higher priced than most silnylon packs, the price reflects innovative design and quality construction. You probably won’t find another 1-pound pack with the features of the Mariposa that can comfortably carry 30 pounds or more. The Mariposa value was slightly downgraded due to its lower durability; though this is the tradeoff for its reduced weight.

    Recommendations for Improvement

    When the back pocket is filled with gear and bulges out, trekking poles or an ice axe attached to the centered ice axe loop at the bottom of the back pocket tend to stick out rather than ride close to the pack. Relocating the ice axe loop to either side of the back would fix this problem. We also expect to see corrections to the hip belt (which was too long) and the sternum strap (which was too high) when full-production packs hit the market. We do not wish to see any improvement to durability, as this would also increase the weight. There are plenty of light, durable packs on the market. The incredibly light, not-so-durable Gossamer Gear Mariposa is a needed extremity to satisfy those on the lightweight fringe who spend most of their time hammering out long miles on the trail.

    Gregory 2004 G Pack Backpack Review

    Performance review of a lightweight frameless pack that focuses on utility and comfort.

    Overview

    G Pack in the field
    Photo 1: Gregory G Pack.

    The Gregory G Pack is the result of Gregory’s experience making comfortable packs applied to lighter fabrics and materials. The hollow core single aluminum stay and well fitting harness combine to create a very comfortable pack suspension without being overly stiff. Weights at or around 30 pounds (14 kg, Gregory’s suggested weight) carried very comfortably in the G Pack. However, Gregory’s G fabric (1.3 oz/yd2, 44 g/m2 silnylon) is rather thin and will not handle a lot of abuse. We also found the lack of accessible pockets, limited exterior attachment options, and the omission of hydration compatibility disappointing.

    Specifications

    ā€¢ Backpack Style

    		 Top loading internal frame with top lid pocket closure.

    ā€¢ Fabric Description

    		 Silicone impregnated 30d, 1.3 oz/yd2 (44 g/m2) “G fabric” for the main body and 210d, 4.8 oz/yd2 (163 g/m2) HT ripstop nylon for high wear areas and reinforcements.

    ā€¢ Sizes (Size M tested)
    Sizes Torso Length (in) Torso Length (cm)
    S 15.5-17.5 39-44
    M 17.5-19.5 44-50
    L 19.5-21.5 50-55

    ā€¢ Volume (Size M tested)
    Sizes Volume (ci) Volume (L)
    S 2,650 43
    M 2,900 48
    L 3,100 51

    ā€¢ Weight (Size M tested)
    Sizes Backpacking Light MeasuredĀ oz(g) Manufacturer SpecificationĀ oz(g)
    S Not measured 41 (1,162)
    M 43.6 (1,236) 44 (1,247)
    L Not measured 46 (1,304)

    ā€¢ Volume to Weight Ratio

    		 67 ci/oz, size M (based on 2,900 ci and Backpacking Light measured weight of 43.6 oz)

    ā€¢ Load Carrying Capacity

    		 30 lbs (14 kg) as estimated by Backpacking Light

    ā€¢ Carry Load to Pack Weight Performance Ratio

    		 11 (based on 30 lbs and Backpacking Light measured weight of 43.6 oz)

    ā€¢ MSRP

    		 $149

    ā€¢ Manufacturer’s Contact Information

    		 Gregory
    (800) 477-3420
    http://www.gregorypacks.com

    Features

    Ratings follow subtitles on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the best, and are relative to other Backpacking Light tested framed packs.

    Frame and Suspension – 4.5

    frame stay
    Photo 2: The Gregory G Pack has a single hollow core aluminum stay and a plastic HDPE framesheet, both shown here removed from the pack.

    Gregory lightened the G Pack by reducing fabric weight while retaining a fairly substantial frame and harness for a pack designed to carry 30 pounds (14 kg). The frame consists of a single hollow core 7075 series aluminum internal frame stay and a supportive HDPE plastic framesheet (Photo 2). Although Gregory describes the frame sheet and stay as removable, removal is very difficult and not a task that one would repeat often. The one time I accomplished the task, it took me 15 minutes, and I broke out in a sweat. Nevertheless, once removed, the stay can be bent to make minor adjustments to better match spinal curvature.

    The Gregory G Pack has padded shoulder straps and hipbelt, both cushioned sufficiently for the load carrying capacity of this pack. There are no means to adjust the harness to accommodate varying torso lengths. However, the G Pack is offered in three sizes (small, medium, and large) to fit torso sizes from 15.5 to 21.5 inches (39 to 55 cm). The shoulder straps are contour cut and fit very well. The harness is completed with waist belt and shoulder strap stabilizers and a sternum strap. The padded back panel only makes contact at the lumbar and shoulder blades creating channels in between that allow air movement between the pack and wearer.

    Ā 

    Usable Features and Ease of Use – 2.5

    Ā 

    The G Pack has an unusual pocket configuration that is both uniquely functional and cumbersome to use. Rather than having two side water bottle pockets and one large back pocket, as many lightweight packs do, the G Pack has one large pocket that covers both side panels and the back, named the “bucket pouch” by Gregory. It can accept lots of small gear, or take on enormous items, as needed. This pocket is secured along its top edge by three side-release buckles that connect the pocket to each side panel and to the top compression strap. These also act as the pack’s primary compression system. The deep side panel pockets are unreachable with the pack on. For that matter, none of the pockets are accessible while wearing this pack. What makes this pocket cumbersome to use is the top or center compression strap. A single strap compresses the top of the pack, underneath the top pocket, and also attaches and compresses the center panel of the back pocket. Since one webbing strap does it all, this arrangement necessitates the adjustment of both the top compression of the pack and back pocket at the same time, a task that requires removal of the top lid pocket. We would prefer the increased weight (a weight only measurable in grams) of an additional piece of nylon webbing that would allow independent adjustment of the top and pocket compression.

    The top lid pocket is standard enough. It attaches cleanly with four adjustable side release buckles, one at each corner, and compresses the pack well. A #5 YKK weather resistant coil zipper closes this pocket. Although the top pocket can be removed, doing so leaves four long sections of nylon webbing dangling from the pack. Diehards, wanting to loose the top pocket permanently, can do so by cutting these nylon straps.

    The main pack bag closes like a stuff sack, with a draw cord and cord lock. As mentioned previously, a single nylon strap with a side release buckle goes over the top of this opening (underneath the top pocket) for vertical compression. Gregory added an extra bit of reinforcement material where the draw cord enters the pack to protect the silnylon from ripping.

    The G Pack further misses the mark by not providing a hydration system friendly pocket and tube port. It is difficult to stay hydrated while wearing this pack. This pack also lacks the ability to carry ice axes or long items as there are no tool loops or upper side panel attachment points. The pocket and compression strap configuration limits sleeping pad storage to the inside.

    Load Volume Flexibility (Compression) – 3.0

    With a total of eight compression straps, the G Pack excels at compressing loads. Oddly, all of these compression straps compress in a mostly vertical direction. The exceptions are the compression straps connecting the sides of the main large pocket to the upper side panels, which angle at an upward diagonal, towards the backpanel. Nevertheless, the G Pack compresses well enough. Smaller loads are easily swallowed within the pack. Larger loads are a little more problematic. The G Pack lacks a daisy chain and only the two front compression straps connected to the top pocket can be used to lash on extra gear.

    Field Performance

    Pack Load Carrying – 4.5

    Gregory claims a carrying capacity of 30 pounds (14 kg), which was unequivocally confirmed in our testing of the G Pack. We tested the G Pack with loads as high as 40 pounds (18 kg) reducing down below 20 pounds (9 kg). At the heavier weights, the lighter hip belt and single stay were unable to completely transfer weight comfortably to the hips. The single, centered aluminum stay could not transfer this weight to the shoulder strap stabilizers’ upper attachment which caused some torso collapse. This required adjusting more weight onto the shoulder straps, which were not up for the task and quickly became uncomfortable. At, or around 30 pounds (14 kg), the G Pack’s frame and suspension was comfortable, with minimal frame collapse and sufficient padding for those loads. The single stay and framesheet are vertically supportive and able to transfer weight to the hips and provide enough pack flexibility for the hips and shoulders to twist independently of each other. For a pack designed to carry 30 pounds, the G Pack does so in comfort without unnecessary rigidity.

    Durability – 2.5

    Although the main body of the pack uses 30 denier, 1.3 oz/yd2 (44 g/m2) silnylon “G fabric” to reduce weight, most high wear areas are covered by 210 denier double ripstop nylon. The 210 denier ripstop was used for the bottom, up the middle of the back pocket, and across the top of the top pocket. The nylon mesh used in the sides of the large back pocket protects the G fabric side panels. The silnylon is exposed in two narrow strips down the back pocket and quite extensively above that pocket.

    We tested the G Pack down a narrow, trail-less canyon in northern Arizona which included numerous encounters with dense vegetation. In our testing, the 210 denier double ripstop held up well to conscientious use, but not at all to abuse. The silnylon was hidden well enough behind tougher fabric to resist most encounters with abrasion and snags, which generally occurred on the lower portion of the pack. The exposed silnylon on the back pocket was susceptible to wear, particularly when dropping the pack on the ground or leaning against brush. Care must also be taken when passing low overhanging branches so they do not find their way through the exposed G fabric on the upper portion of the pack. It was suitable to omit climbing attachment options on this pack, as its fabric will not tolerate encounters with abrasive surfaces.

    Value – 2.5

    At $149, the G Pack is priced on the low end compared to other lightweight internal frame packs. However, the exposed areas of G fabric greatly reduce its durability. It also lacks accessible pockets and options for hydration.

    Recommendations for Improvement

    The comfortable-to-carry Gregory G Pack could be optimized with improved pocket accessibility. In order to keep the current pocket configuration, we recommend adding two water bottle sized pockets, one on each lower side panel. Attaching them with side release buckles, such that they can be attached low and are removable allowing the bucket pocket to remain, might be the best option for this pack.

    We would really like to see Gregory add an additional nylon webbing strap for the back pocket’s center adjustment strap, thus allowing separate adjustability for the back pocket and pack’s top compression. This would only add a nominal amount of weight, if any at all, as the current single strap is much longer than necessary.

    More options for attaching gear externally would be an improvement that could extend the load volume carrying capacity. Even a single daisy chain running up the middle of the back pocket, with an ice axe loop at the bottom, would make a significant improvement in this regard. The benefits of these changes would outweigh the minimal weight increase. Although this is not a climbing pack, the additional attachment options would be suitable for attaching trekking poles or a jacket that does not fit inside the pack.

    Shorts from OR: Tidbits and First Looks at New Backpacking Gear (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004)

    BIVY SACKS. We found two new minimalist waterproof breathable bivys at the show – an 18 oz 3-layer eVENT bag cover from Integral Designs and an ultralight (7.0 oz) PU waterproof-breathable bivy from Montbell. It is interesting to note the naming conventions here. Integral Designs calls their product the ā€œAll eVENT Overbag/Bivyā€ ā€“ a brutally descriptive name that lacks branding finesse, but by God, we know what the heck the product is, donā€™t we? Letā€™s contrast this to MontBellā€™s product: the DRTC U.L. Sleeping Bag Cover. Man, do these companies need some help naming their products! Fortunately the engineering is solid ā€“ these are well made products that are a true expression of ultralight simplicity and art. MontBell earns the edge in packability and weight, but we expect the Integral Designs product to perform better in terms of breathability ā€“ a lot better in fact ā€“ than the MontBell product, which uses a PU membrane-based fabric.


    MontBell DRTC U.L. Sleeping Bag Cover

    GAITERS AND GLOVES. Integral Designs, Outdoor Research, and MontBell offer new gaiter options for backpackers. ID uses three-layer eVENT in a half-height (mid-calf) gaiter that weighs only 2.5 ounces. These will make you drool (packed size is 2ā€ x 4ā€). OR ditches the XCR Cayman ā€“ a delicate affair for mountaineers, in lieu of tougher 50d WP/B fabric in the Verglas Gaiter, keeping weight at 7.4 ounces but dropping the price to forty bucks. The OR Celestial is a six-ounce Pac-Lite full length gaiter that looks like their Rocky Mountain gaiters that costs ā€“ you guessed it ā€“ forty bucks. MontBell enters the gaiter market with a 3.2 oz Schoeller shorty that weighs about the same as other soft shell shorties on the market.


    Integral Designs eVENT Gaiters


    MontBell Soft Shell Gaiters


    Outdoor Research Celestial Gaiters

    Bid adieu to Outdoor Research Rain Mitts and Lobster Claw Mitts ā€“ chief complaints of which were miserably user-unfriendly wrist closures and slippery palms. What replaces them, sort of, are the short gauntlet Rain Claw Mitts, which have a grippier palm and tougher fabric but inflate to 3.2 oz ā€“ not exactly a viable alternative to the stick-in-the-bottom-of-your-pack-and-forget-it mitts of old. The new Rain Claws fill a niche ā€“ for sure ā€“ but weā€™re sad to see old friends go away, even if they hadnā€™t yet reached their design potential.


    Outdoor Research Rain Claw Mitts

    STOVES AND COOKWARE. Not a lot of new or interesting ultralight cookware is being released in ā€™05, but we like the 1.9 oz SnowPeak Titanium Bowl that uses thinner metal than on most of their cookware. Add an aluminum foil lid and a pair of wool gloves, and voila, you have an ultralight titanium cookpot that weighs less than two ounces and is perfectly suited for solo cooking on just about any alcohol or canister stove. Hmmmā€¦


    Coleman F1 Powerboost 24,000 BTU Stove

    How about Primus? Theyā€™re getting into the business of lightweight white gas stoves, too. The sleek-looking Primus Gravity MF Multi-Fuel Stove weighs 10.4 oz (stove and pump), puts out 10,500 btu/hr, and also uses kerosene. A 7.8 oz version works with a detached canister.

    Coleman ā€“ manufacturer of the Big Green Stove that Belongs in Every Ford Truck ā€“ is going after lightweight backpackers in a big way with redneck power. Not only is their PowerMax fuel system grabbing market share from white gas enthusiasts, they are building sub-three-ounce canister stoves that are hotter than anything else on the market: the Coleman F1 Canister Stove puts out 16,000 btu/hr and our tests with it confirm that it has the fastest boil times in the industry and has the power to bring water to boil in wind without a windscreen. If you like that, get this: the 4.5 ounce Coleman F1 Powerboost Canister Stove burns at 24k. Yeah, thatā€™s hot.

    UMBRELLAS. The MontBell Trekking Umbrella is made with Ballistic Airlight nylon, has a 32 in diameter, packs to a very compact size, and weighs only 5.6 oz. The GoLite Chrome Dome (metallized polyester canopy for sun protection) has a sturdy shaft and more comfortable and durable knurled grip using high-density foam. It is 44 inches in diameter and weighs in at 10 oz.


    GoLite Dome Umbrella and Chrome Dome Waterproof polyester, 44 in diameter, 9 oz Dome and 10 oz Chrome Dome


    Mont-Bell Trekking Umbrella Ballistic Airlight nylon, 32 in diameter, 5.6 oz

    CLOTHING. The big guys with the fancy mountain logo are releasing the most innovative apparel at OR this year. In addition to newer, lighter soft shells and raingear, we like the Patagonia Micro Puff Vest: it weighs a paltry five ounces and uses 1.1 oz nylon fabric and Polarguard Delta like its bigger brother, the 12-ounce Micro Puff Pullover. Wool clothing continues to evolve into lighter weights: how about the long awaited Smartwool Microweight line? For 2005, a short sleeve shirt that weighs less than five ounces (and is noticeably cooler in the heat than the lightweight pieces) is the signature piece in the line, but expand the line to expand to long sleeves and long pants in six to twelve months. Smartwool Lightweight offers the most options for backpackers today, and is perhaps the most versatile weight in the entire line. Ibex puts a minimization routine on the Icefall with a lighter version of Ibex ClimaWool Lite (lighter nap, lighter shell fabric ā€“ ClimaWool Lighter? ClimaWool really light?), trims the fit, dumps the hand pockets, cleans up the construction, and gets to 12 oz ā€“ the lightest wool soft shell on the market now. Hereā€™s something interesting: Integral Designs is building 18 oz Primaloft blankets with a hold in the middle. Got a poncho? Wanna wear your bed in camp? Fun gear!


    Ibex Climawool Lighter Soft Shell Jacket

    PACKS. Granite Gear enters the lightweight-packs-for-women-too business with the Granite Gear Nimbus Latitude Ki Backpack being the most interesting affair: a 3800 ci rated for 30-45 pound loads offering shorter torsos, more padding in the harness, curvy-hip-friendly belt, and shoulder straps that curve in the right places. Of course, it comes in pretty colors, too: putty is the base color, and sage and ribbon red are offered as accent options. Not ultralight, but women seeking comfort should have a look.

    GIZMOS AND GADGETS. Are you someone who needs Bach or Black Sabbath, Air Supply or ZZ Top, to round out that perfect backcountry experience? A watch company may have the ticket: The High Gear Trail Audio MP3 Player is a 512mb MP3 player/FM radio in a compact, 3.5 oz package with a carabiner clip that gives you up to 17 hours of play time on its single AAA battery. We may go to hell for encouraging our readers to indulge in devices that interrupt the pristine wilderness experience, so we need to offer our disclaimer: you donā€™t need this device and it will add to your pack weight. (But not much!)

    Macintosh users rejoice: National Geographic, despite indications to the contrary, will now be offering Topo! Mapping Software for Mac.

    Outdoor Research, the company that was formerly the innovator in organizational tools for backpackers ā€“ think stuff sacks, cubes, cylinders (maybe weā€™ll see helixes from them in the future) ā€“ is playing catch up to Granite Gearā€™s wildly successful SilCordura sack program. OR is launching a new line of SilCordura products that offer a little more styling, with no meaningful differences in weight or function. Itā€™s the right move for OR: weā€™ve been waiting for them to join in and we hope to see more ultralight accessories from them in the future. More interesting is Integral Designsā€™ Silcoat Backpack, a silicone coated nylon stuff sack/day pack: a 25L affair that weighs 4.5 ounces and offers both shoulder straps (2ā€) and a hip belt (1ā€). Of course, itā€™s marketed for backpackers wanting a day pack out of their sleeping bag compression strap, but weā€™re sort of drooling over another application, maybeā€¦superultralight backpacking?


    Outdoor Research SilCordura Stuff Sacks and More

    THATā€™s a WRAP! Thatā€™s it for summer OR ā€“ almost. Be sure to check out our more comprehensive introductions to new products and trends from today:

    More New Lightweight Shelters Announced (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004)

    Lightweight shelters arenā€™t getting too much lighter, but youā€™re getting more for your weight. Solo tents from Marmot, Sierra Designs, and YES! Eureka! are getting bigger, smarter, and/or stronger, and a few new tarps from Outdoor Research and GoLite are worth a long look.

    Marmot EOS 1P and 2P


    Marmot EOS 1P

    The Specs: Trail wt 2 lb 14 oz, 20 sq ft tent, 6 sq ft vestibule, 39 in head height.
    The Skinny: Ultralight solo, freestanding with large side door and high ceiling. A light and fairly storm worthy double walled free standing shelter. Similar in design to the Big Agnes Seedhouse SL, but truly freestanding (the SL requires two stakes for maximum usable floor area) and possibly, more storm worthy (the EOS series incorporate more pole stability at the foot end. EOS offers side entry with better views than the Big Agnes Seedhouse SL.
    What Else: Donā€™t forget the 2-person Marmot EOS 2P: Trail wt 3 lb 14 oz, 25.6 sq ft tent, 11 sq ft vestibule.

    Sierra Designs Mach 1


    Sierra Designs Mach 1

    The Specs: Trail wt 3 lb 1 oz, 22 sq ft tent, 13.5 sq ft vestibule, 30 in head height
    The Skinny: Ultralight solo, 3-pole design with large side door. A light and storm worthy double walled free standing shelter. Quite short ā€“ bivy tent height ā€“ but a totally protected side door in the rain with fantastic views and airiness.

    Sierra Designs Solomente AST


    Sierra Designs Solomente AST

    The Specs: Trail wt 3 lb 1 oz, 22 sq ft tent, 4 sq ft vestibule, 39 in head height.
    The Skinny: 4-season, solo single walled waterproof breathable tent body. High roof and near vertical walls increase livable space. A no-brainer and FAST to pitch. Nice tent!

    Eureka Spitfire


    Eureka Spitfire

    The Specs: Trail wt 2 lb 12 oz, 18.1 sq ft tent, 4.4 sq ft vestibule, 40 in head height.
    The Skinny: 2-pole hoop. New for ā€™04 this is a roomy solo tent with lots of head room and easy entry, good views and ventilation in the rain, through a large side door. Only two stakes needed to secure the main tent body.

    Eureka Solitaire 2005


    Eureka Solitaire

    The Specs: Trail wt 2 lb 9 oz, 21.5 sq ft tent, 28 in head height.
    The Skinny: 2-pole hoop bivy tent. Significantly redesigned for ā€™05. New vertical door (sunroof entry?) via a top zipper in the mesh body for fair-weather entry/exit. Hallelujah Eureka! A new tent body material reduces sag and the number of stakeout points has been reduced. Fly rolls back for killer views and ventilation ā€“ without exiting the tent. A gorgeous, fresh, and innovative design in what has pretty much been a static category for the past several years.

    Outdoor Research Helium Solo Awning and Helium Awning


    OR Helium Solo Awning

    The Specs: Trail wt 15 oz, 125 in long, 100×80 in wide.
    The Skinny: 1 ā€“ 2 person tarp ā€“ deep body! A huge flexible pitch SilCordura shelter that provides will provide great overhead protection in foul weather ā€“ long length allows you to tuck way back into the rear of the tarp and enjoy the fruits of a pseudo-vestible. Two pole pitch (rear inside the tarp) and catenary bound side seams ā€“ only one guyline required ā€“ make this one a breeze to pitch. Tension buckles, strong fabric, tape-bound seams allow for a very taut and stable pitch in high winds. What Else: The two-person version, the Helium Awning (not pictured): Trail wt 1 lb 4.8 oz, 130 in long, 125×80 in wide.

    GoLite Poncho Tarp

    GoLite grabs its ultralight roots with the Ultra-Lite Poncho/Shelter.

    The Specs: 10 oz, 8ā€™8ā€ x 4ā€™10ā€, hood, 1.7 oz SilLite.
    The Skinny: Only marginally heavier than the 1.3-1.4 silnylon poncho tarps from other manufacturers, the GoLite version will be more abrasion resistant and the fabric allowing for a tighter pitch (especially in cold and wet conditions). Keep on eye on this one.

    Atsko Sport Wash First Looks (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004)

    Washing clothes is definitely not exciting, but using the right cleaning agent could make a big difference in how well your eVENT jacket keeps its water repellency. Atsko launched a new product called Sport-Wash that they claim restores water repellency to waterproof-breathable clothing better than Nikwaxā€™s Tech Wash: one of the industry standards.

    A residue-free laundry detergent, Sport Wash is a cheaper alternative to other high performance washing solutions such as Revivex (interestingly, Atsko does not disclose data comparing its product to Revivex branded formulations). The data they do disclose, however, indicates, based on ASTM standard test methods, that Sport Wash exceeds the performance of Nikwax Tech Wash for a wide variety of waterproof breathable products, including those made with Gore-Tex, 2- and 3-layer eVENT, and others.

    Above all, the data indicate that ā€“ for Godā€™s sake: donā€™t use Tide or Woolite for washing your waterproof-breathable gear.

     

    New High-Powered, Lightweight LED Headlamps from Princeton Tec, Petzl, and Black Diamond (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004)

    Princeton Tec EOS

    Princeton Tec is releasing a one watt led headlamp with a lens/collimator. The Princeton Tec ā€œEOSā€ has current regulation for constant light output for as long as the batteries have sufficient voltage to power the light. The lamp has three brightness levels depending on your illumination and battery conservation needs. The lens/collimator provides a balance between a long distance beam for navigation and localized flood lighting for task work. The Princeton Tec EOS is waterproof to 3 ft. This may be the best do-it-all light to date. At less than 4 oz, the EOS has sophisticated electronic circuitry that maximizes battery life and will do everything from serious night navigation in difficult terrain to camp chores.

    Specifications:
    Weight with batteries 3.7 oz (3 AAA).
    Style: 1 watt LED, 3 brightness modes and blinking emergency/signaling mode.
    Run time (with Alkaline batteries): High output mode ā€“ 2 hrs of constant brightnes/6.5 hr of run time; Medium output mode ā€“ 9.5 hrs of constant brightnes/12.5 hr of run time; Low output mode ā€“ 44 hrs of constant brightnes/60 hr of run time.

    Princeton Tec Pilot

    Need a backup light? Check out the Princeton Tec Pilot (the small lamp pictured to the left of the EOS 1 in the above photo). This is a clip-on micro light that is great backup light that stays out of the way (or as a standalone light for the typical microlight fanatic). It also attaches in a variety of other places (backpack straps, hat bill, etc.).

    Specifications:
    Weight with batteries: 15 g (2 Lithium coin cells, included)
    Style: backup light that clips to most headlamp headbands Burn time: 12 ā€“ 14 hours.

    Petzl Myo XP

    Not ultralight, but our favorite in terms of performance:weight innovation at this yearā€™s OR is the Petzl Myo XP.

    This lamp houses a 3 watt LED powered by 3 AA batteries that weighs only 5 oz with lithium batteries.

    Not the lightest LED headlamp around, but consider the performance here: Most headlamps with 3 to 5 watt LEDs require a significant heat sink (read: heavy) to keep them from overheating. Petzlā€™s solution, rather, is a little simple, and nothing short of brilliant: put a lightweight thermostat on the LED and shut it down before it gets too hot!

    They call the maximum power mode (controllable by its switch) ā€œboost modeā€ and in this mode, the LED runs for about 20 seconds at maximum power before the thermost trips it and sets it back down to 1 watt mode. Inconvenient? Heck no. Consider when you actually need to use maximum power: for brief bursts during nighttime navigation while you scan terrain. What a remarkably efficient way to use a headlamp!

    The Petzl Myo XPā€™s Boost mode and automatic down-powering of the LED saves battery life and weight (by eliminating the heat sink). The Petzl Myo XP offers multiple lighting modes (intensities) and a plastic lens that flips over the lamp diffuse flood lighting for task work, and ā€“ hereā€™s a novel idea: it includes a colored LED battery level indicator. Smart.

    The three AA batteries and option to use Lithium AAā€™s give the Petzl Myo XL great burn time and cold weather performance.

    Specifications

    • BOOST mode: 50% more light than normal maximum level for 20 seconds
    • battery life indicator: green LED light (100-30%) changes to orange (30%-10%) then red (less than 10%) as battery weakens (indicator blinks when color changes)
    • Weight: 99g/3.5oz (batteries not included); add 1.5 oz for lithium AA batteries and 2.5 oz for alkaline AA batteries
    • Battery life and lighting ranges: Boost (65 m), Maximum (70 hr / 45 m), Optimal (90 hr / 35 m), Economy (170 hr, 20 m)


    Petzl MYO XP with its 3 watt focused LED. You can see the diffusion lens folded down underneath the LED. This flips up to creat a flood light pattern.

    Black Diamond Zenix IQ

    Black Diamond says the Zenix is smarter. We say they fixed a bug.

    Last year in our review of the Zenix, we found that battery life was better when using the high-powered ā€œhyperbrightā€ LED than with the low-powered LED ancillary task lights. Strange, but true.

    Well itā€™s fixed, at any rate. And 3AAA batteries have been replaced by 2AA. Weight with lithiums: around four ounces.

    Shell Shocked: Raingear and Soft Shells are Getting Lighter and Breathing Better (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004)

    After reporting on sub-10 oz waterproof breathable jackets yesterday, we had a chance for a long talk with Patagoniaā€™s garment R&D team. Now that we understand the physics of it, we understand why they expect the Specter Pullover to have better breathability than Gore-Tex XCR and PacLite and approach eVENTā€™s performance. Due to the proprietary nature of the work we canā€™t divulge the complete details. Butā€¦

    Patagonia is doing some groundbreaking work on moisture transport in both waterproof breathable garments and soft shells. They even designed and built their own testing equipment when they felt that current testing apparati, even though very expensive, were not producing repeatable (or field confirmable) results. This year, for the first time, Patagonia lab-tested moisture transport performance consistently matched perceived field performance from guides and testers. One waterproof breathable garment that had puzzled the R&D team in the past was a favorite with backcountry guides since they could wear it all day without discomfortā€”yet it tested poorly in lab breathability tests. With the new test equipment and measurement parameters the garment finally tested with high breathability. Patagonia studied the garment and found out some surprising things about moisture transport that were not only applicable to waterproof breathable fabrics but also to soft shell fabrics. Conversely their study of soft shells showed some performance factors for soft shells that are applicable to waterproof breathables.

    Patagonia Ready Mix Soft Shell Jacket

    Armed with this information, they designed two new shells to be released in 2005 – one waterproof breathable, the Specter Pullover, and one softshell, the Ready Mix. See our dispatch from Day 1 for our report on the Specter.


    Patagoniaā€™s 14 oz Ready Mix Soft Shell Jacket

    The Ready Mix soft shell fabric was designed using Patagoniaā€™s new moisture transport findings to have better breathability without the moisture retention thatā€™s plagued sofshells (they avoided fuzzy and absorbent linings and moisture hungry woven fabrics). Patagonia claims that the Ready Mix has a water repellent outer fabric that does a good job of evaporating moisture from the inside of the garment without getting wet itself. The Ready Mix is available for women in a pleasing light blue color.

    MontBell Peak Jacket


    A full featured WP/B for under 10 ounces!

    MontBell introduces a new 3-layer polyurethane rain shell, the Peak Jacket. It appears to be somewhat air permeable like eVENT and may turn out to be a very breathable garment. For a light shell, it should be durable with its 3-layer construction and 22 denier shell fabric. Best of all MontBell achieves this weight without sacrificing essential features like pit-zips, two large pockets and Velcro adjustable wrist closures.

    MontBell Torrent Flier Pants


    MontBell Torrent Flier Pants

    Same story with the new MontBell Torrent flier pants – functionality at 6.4 oz. Front snap, zipper fly, knee high side zips, and drawcord waist. It has the same tough 15 denier ballistics nylon 3-layer Gore-Tex XCR fabric as the Torrent Flier Jacket.


    The Marmot entry into sub-10 oz rainwear, the 9 oz Essence Jacket. PreCip Plus fabric, and a minimal design with a single front pocket, drawcord hood and drawcord hem.

     

    2005 Trekking Pole Trends: Poles for Women? (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004)

    Womenā€™s Poles (Not) Have Been on U.S. Market For Longer Than We Think

    We were interested in womenā€™s specific trekking poles and did a bit of inquiring at the Leki booth since, as the most recognized trekking pole company in the U.S., we found it odd that they werenā€™t making womenā€™s specific models like some other manufacturers.

    Funny story: it turns out that Leki has been making womenā€™s specific poles in Europe for years. That makes sense – poles are far more popular in Europe among walkers and trampers than they are in the U.S. among hikers and backpackers.

    These womenā€™s poles were typically 10 cm shorter and had grips 15% smaller in every dimension. These size reductions also reduced weight, of course, so they were a little lighter.

    When the ultralight craze gained steam in the US market, Leki decided simply to offer their Euro-market womenā€™s poles, and rebrand them as their Ultralight line. What they didnā€™t do was label them as womenā€™s-specific poles.

    Of course, it turned out that not only were the Ultralights a big hit among women, they were a bigger hit on uninformed ultralight guys ā€“ hey, most of our male staff has a pair! Now Leki is in a pickle: what will they do to capitalize on womenā€™s specific marketing since they already have a number of ā€œwomenā€™sā€ poles in the US market? Make them pink?

    Life-Link, a company that has earned a loyal following of rugged manly avalanche-dodging types for years, now offers a womanā€™s pole: the Avalanche Lily.


    Life-Link Avalanche Lily

    The LifeLink Avalanche Lily is a womenā€™s version of the Guide Ultra Light. The Avalanche Lily is not pink ā€“ but rather, a nice pale blue with smaller grips than what you find on the similar Guide Ultra Lights. Since the Guide Ultra Lights are already a short pole (49 in) no reduction in length was made.

    Aside: Do you like your LifeLink Guide Ultra Light poles but are you frustrated that they are too short to use with your shelter, or maybe youā€™re tall and want some added length? LifeLink introduces a longer version of this pole that extends to 57 inches, the Carbon Race (2 oz heavier at 16 oz). Now you can use them with your Missing Link tent! In addition, the longer length is good for assembling a 6 ft 2 in avalanche probe.

    Education as a Means to Foster an Appreciation of Lightweight Strategies for Backcountry Travel (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004)

    Itā€™s no secret that pushing ultralight technique and gear to its limits requires a significant amount of consumer education. Few people simply drop their fifty-pound packs mid-way through a PCT thru-hike and exchange their kit at wholesale for a pocho-tarp and beanie hat when the monsoon season looms in the Oregon Cascades.

    Itā€™s also no secret that there is a perception among core enthusiasts in the lightweight community that manufacturers are unwilling to promote the more technical education that is often required to push ultralight to its fringe limits, or at least to understand how and why it works.

    Cascade Designs sees technical consumer education as a higher priority in the future. Jon Almquist, MSR Brand Manager, believes that a public relations pendulum needs to swing towards pro-sumer technical education of customers that can ultimately become the industryā€™s biggest champions not only of their products, but of pushing those products to their limits with a fast-and-light ethic. ā€œPart of reaching the consumer in this way is empowering sales reps ā€“ who have historically lacked the technical expertise to train core users,ā€ says Almquist. Cascade Designs, the brand parent of MSR, intends to empower their sales force with innovative, incentive-based training programs that make their reps the most knowledgeable in the industry.

    GoLite has a different approach, claims CEO and co-founder Kim Coupounas. ā€œWe have every intention of participating in rational dialogue directly with our end users.ā€ Kevin Volz, GoLiteā€™s Customer Service Manager, interacts directly with GoLite customers via email and phone daily. ā€œThe fun inquiries fall into two categories: those who are curious and want to know what this lightweight stuff is all about,ā€ says Volz, ā€œand passionate enthusiasts who want to know the minutia of product design attributes such as fabric weights.ā€ Both scenarios provide terrific opportunities to offer technical consumer education at a level that is not commonly found in the outdoor industry.

    ā€œCottage manufacturers rely primarily on one-on-one connection with their customers for education,ā€ says Brian Frankle of ULA-Equipment. ā€œAnd, the unusual nature of more innovative and cutting edge cottage products demands (that type of) customer service.ā€

    Unlike bigger manufacturers, cottage companies are unique in their ability to rapidly respond to customer feedback, making changes to products on the fly. Because of rapidly evolving products and sometimes quirky and unusual features, cottage industry products often demand a higher consumer education burden than mass-market products. The extra education is required because their gear initially flies in the face of established protocol and consumers arenā€™t always sure how to respond to the concepts.

    Larger companies, however, tend to build what they can sell ā€“ creating products that have a minimal customer service overhead that can scale to the mass market. Large companies take fewer product concept gambles, have longer product development cycles, and canā€™t respond quickly to product goof-ups when they are sitting on hundreds, and often thousands, of unsold units. Thus, their products tend to be further from the ultralight fringe: that market space occupied by companies like Six Moon Designs, ULA-Equipment, and Gossamer Gear.

    Large and small manufacturers alike agree that educating consumers ā€“ and creating a passionate and technically competent pro-sumer customer base that can offer more than simply recite marketing materials is necessary for the growth of the industry. Ron Moak of Six Moon Designs aptly told us this afternoon, ā€œlightweight backpacking is an oxymoron because backpacking is recreation, but going lightweight is workā€ ā€“ mind work, that is.

    If you are going to gain competence as a lightweight backpacker (more so if you want to tap at the fringe of the ultralight dance floor), you canā€™t do it successfully, safely, or comfortable without putting some thought muscle into it.

    OR News – Day 2 Roundup: New Products for Lightweight Backpacking, Hiking, and Camping (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004)

    M Commentary on the State of Declining Backcountry Wilderness Activity Participation by End Users

    Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) released its state of the market report suggesting that wilderness activity participation is on the decline. Find out what industry leaders from GoLite, Cascade Designs, and MontBell have to say about it, and what they are doing to respond to the trend. Moreā€¦

    M Pacific Outdoor Equipment Announces 8 Ounce Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad and Blends Hybrid Self-Inflating and Closed Cell Foam Technology for 2005

    One of the biggest innovations in lightweight backpacking gear at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004 comes from Pacific Outdoor Equipment, manufacturer of the Bozeman Mountain Works 10-ounce TorsoLite self-inflating pad and the Insul-Mat line of sleep comfort products. POE continues to innovate with the introduction of the marketā€™s first hybrid self-inflating foam technologies and radical new pad shapes to decrease the weight of both self-inflating and closed cell foam pads for hardcore ultralight enthusiasts. Moreā€¦

    M New GoLite Shelters Fill Gaps in Existing Product Line

    GoLite is expanding their line of lightweight shelters across the board, introducing models that fill in much needed gaps in their existing product line. We had the opportunity to test and perform a first looks review of the new shelters out prior to Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004. New models include the GoLite Hut 1 and 2 floorless shelters that address limitations of the Integral Designs Silshelter; the GoLite Trig 1, a smaller brother to the existing GoLite Trig 2, and the GoLite Eisenhower Tunnel Tent, or more simply, the GoLite ā€œIkeā€, a Den 2 on steroids built for more severe weather conditions. Moreā€¦

    M Wookey Dragonfly Ultralight Pack Skin

    Imagine a pack skin made of durable, but lightweight materials, suitable for rigging your own packbag or dry bag, carrying an elk quarter, or even a kayak? All this for 19 ounces? Check out an inaugural lightweight product from Wookey of Bozeman, Montana. Moreā€¦

    New Lightweight ā€œDone-in-a-Dayā€ Backpacks Announced

    There is a huge crop of light packs in the 30 to 45 liter range (1800 to 2750 cu in). It seems like every pack manufacturer is in the business of making ā€œone-day/one-nightā€ packs in the two to three pound range with durable materials and good load handling characteristics. See product specs and photos of new packs from Osprey, Marmot, Lowe Alpine, Black Diamond, and Arcā€™Teryx. Moreā€¦

    Education as a Means to Foster an Appreciation of Lightweight Strategies for Backcountry Travel

    Itā€™s no secret that pushing ultralight technique and gear to its limits requires a significant amount of consumer education. Few people simply drop their fifty-pound packs mid-way through a PCT thru-hike and exchange their kit at wholesale for a pocho-tarp and beanie hat when the monsoon season looms in the Oregon Cascades. Itā€™s also no secret that there is a perception among core enthusiasts in the lightweight community that manufacturers are unwilling to promote the more technical education that is often required to push ultralight to its fringe limits, or at least to understand how and why it works. How do education needs and strategies differ between large manufacturers such as MSR and GoLite, and small manufacturers such as ULA Equipment or Six Moon Designs? Find out what these companies are doing to promote technical education among its customers. Moreā€¦

    New Lightweight ā€œDone-in-a-Dayā€ Backpacks Announced (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004)

    Trend suggests increase in emphasis on done-in-a-day activities and high action adventure sports such as fastpacking and peak bagging

    There is a huge crop of light packs in the 30 to 45 liter range (1800 to 2750 cu in). It seems like every pack manufacturer is in the business of making ā€œone-day/one-nightā€ packs in the two to three pound range with durable materials and good load handling characteristics.

    We asked representatives from Lowe Alpine, Gregory, and other pack manufacturers that have traditionally made their bread and butter on heavier and larger volume packs about this trend. They are seeing an increased interest in adventure day hiking (long distance day hiking/ peak bagging), quick overnight backpacking with small loads, and fastpacking (high mileages in a few days). This trend reflects the outdoorā€™s increasing focus on frontcountry done-in-a-day activities and decreased time spent in the backcountry among a busy American public.

    We think itā€™s all well and good that there are so many products from which the general outdoor consumer can choose. But even the astute lightweight or ultralight backpacker can capitalize on these packs. Using an ultralight mentality (one pound down sleeping bag, small tarp shelter, highly compressible clothing, etc.) we think you can cram a weekā€™s worth of food and gear in these packs and enjoy the benefits of carrying a small, compact load comfortably while enjoying the benefits of durability and reasonable suspension systems. And, you canā€™t ignore the ā€œcool factorā€ of meeting a NOLS group 20 miles from the trailhead picking their jaws up off the ground because they found out you were backpacking their same route with a day-sized backpack.

    Conversion Notes:

    • 1 liter = 61 cu in
    • Example conversion 35 liters x 61 l/cu in = 2135 cu in


    Osprey launches the new Atmos series pack line with AirSpeed suspension, a mesh panel supported by a spring loaded aluminum hoop frame (3 oz). The suspended mesh back is comfortable and breathable. You can even tuck a hydration bladder between the suspended mesh and the back of the pack body. There are three pack in this series 25, 35 and 50 liters


    Osprey Atmos 35 and 25 (pictured): 35 liters, 2 lb 5 oz, 25 liters 1 lb 15 oz. Both packs are almost identical in features and construction. They are panel loaders with solid stretch zippered rear pocket, stretch side pockets, mesh pockets on the hipbelt, and hydration bladders. The 35 is billed for weekend adventure racing and ultralight backpacking. The 25 is billed for one day adventure racing and trail running. We would add peak bagging and a possible overnight to this packā€™s possibilities. There is also a 50 liter version of this pack with a top lid that weighs 2 lb 13 oz.


    Marmot Vapor 30 (pictured), 35 and 45: 30 liters, 2 lb 8 oz ā€“ 35 liters, 3 lb oz ā€“ 45 liters, 3 lb 6 oz. The Vapor 30 is a durable panel loading entry from Marmot. It has a well ventilated backpanel, hollow aluminum stays, two rear zip pockets, water bottle pockets. Day hiking, peak bagging, ski touring, overnight trips. A bit heaver than some but a solid frame and full sized, well padded suspension will probably handle anything you can fit in it. The 35 and 45 are top loaders with a removable lid.


    Lowe Alpine Walkabout 35 Hyperlite: 35 liters, 2 lb 9.5 oz. A clean pack with integrated side pockets and at top lid. A top seller in Europe.


    Lowe Alpine Attack 30 Hyperlite: 30 liters, 1 lb 7 oz. A very light pack perfect for peak bagging and adventurous day hiking and equally suited for fastpacking and overnight backpacking.


    Lowe Alpine Attack 20: 20 liters, 1 lb 14 oz. Designed for freedom of arm movement, this a fabulous pack for a day climb or long trail run. Pack expands for approach and easily compresses for the climb. This is not just for technical climbing but would be great for non-technical peak bagging as well.


    Black Diamond Speed: 30 liters, 1lb 15 oz. A light pack with a top lid. Ā¾ length bivy pad and a single stay. Very durable fabric


    Black Diamond Hollowpoint: 20 liters, 14 oz. An exceptionally light and durable daypack. We could see getting an overnight in this pack or a long day hike with ease.


    Arcā€™Teryx Needle 35 and 45 (pictured). 35 liters, 3 lb 2 oz ā€“ 45 liters, 3 lb 5 oz. Arcā€™Teryx replaces the Khamsin series with their new Needle series of lightweight packs. The 35 and 45 packs are almost identical in design and featuresā€”large accordion rear pockets, top loading with a lid, solid suspension and very durable Dimension Polyant X-Pac fabric.

     

    Pacific Outdoor Equipment Announces 8 Ounce Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad and Blends Hybrid Self-Inflating and Closed Cell Foam Technology for 2005 (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004)

    One of the biggest innovations in lightweight backpacking gear at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004 comes from Pacific Outdoor Equipment, manufacturer of the Bozeman Mountain Works 10-ounce TorsoLite self-inflating pad and the Insul-Mat line of sleep comfort products. POE continues to innovate with the introduction of the marketā€™s first hybrid self-inflating foam technologies and radical new pad shapes to decrease the weight of both self-inflating and closed cell foam pads for hardcore ultralight enthusiasts.

    Insul-Mat Uber-Lite

    The lightest self inflating pad on the market, the Insul-Mat Uber-Lite pad weighs 8 oz. It puts the cushion where you need it most: shoulders and hips, and carves insulation out of the waist area. The found was surprisingly comfortable and supportive when we lay down on it, but managing movement will be a trick for some: you have to pay attention to where youā€™re rolling and leg-tucking. In addition, the pad may not be the best choice for those also in need of more secure virtual packframe support in a frameless pack. But for the ultralight backpacker thatā€™s not into the marriage of hip and collarbones with Mother Earth, this may be your ticket.

    And for the hardcore, the Uber-Micro: The same shaped pad is available in EVA and PE dual density foam version for only 3 oz.


    The Insul-Mat Uber-lite self inflating pad (8 oz).

    Insul-Mat Hyper-Lite

    Hybridizing the Uber-Lite self-inflating hourglass pad with closed cell foam results in the Insul-mat Hyper-Lite 1.0, a 15 oz three-quarter length sleeping pad with an inch of thick, self inflating comfort and support just where you need it ā€“ under the shoulders and hips. Also available in a dual-density closed cell foam combination, the Insul-Mat SL-Lite offers softer closed foam in the hourglass shaped area in lieu of a self-inflating section. The SL-Lite three-quarter length pad weighs 8 oz. Both of these mat designs also come in womenā€™s specific models with slight variations in specifications.


    Insul-Mat SL-Lite Hybrid Pad

     

    New Lightweight Backpacking Foods (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004)

    Backpacking food manufacturers take advantage of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market to introduce new flavors and recipes for the coming season.

    Outdoor Retailer Summer Market provides the most important forum for the introduction of new products, and backpacking foods are no exception ā€“ every year, we can expect new flavors and recipes, and 2004 did not disappoint.

    Cache Lake

    Cache Lake Camping Food offers Wild Rice Vegetable Salad as an attractive option to nuts and dried fruit. The salad and fixings (wild rice, veggies, and Italian or ranch dressing) are packaged in a zip closure bag. Open the bag in the evening, remove everything but the wild rice, add water and hydrate it overnight. Ten minutes prior to eating, add the veggies. Mix in the dressing, and this no cook meal tastes great and the texture offers a wonderful break from typical backpacking foods, but at a weight penalty (4-5 ounces). 224 calories.

    Overnight soaking can be avoided by cooking the rice for 15 minutes (cut cooking time and save fuel with a pot cozy).

    Also notable from Cache Lake: tasty vanilla and chocolate pudding mixes.

    Richmoor

    Richmoor, Inc. is now distributing Crunchies from Blackbird Food Company. Crunchies are freeze-dried vegetables, fruit, and even Edamame (green soybeans) with no additives. Packets weigh 1.4 to 4.5 oz and cost from $2.99 to $5.79. We sampled pineapple, mango, and edamame. Everything had a nice crunchy texture and the flavors were full and pleasing.

    Clif Bar

    New this year for Clif Bar is the Builderā€™s Bar: 20 g of protein and 30 g of carbs packed into a very compact and durable package. We found them to be very tasty with a nice combination of crunchy and soft texture, and the right amount of sweetness. Flavors include Peanut Butter, Cookies ā€˜n Cream, and Chocolate.

    Backpackerā€™s Pantry

    Backpackerā€™s Pantry served up what was unanimously voted as our favorite entrĆ©e of the show: Cajun Salmon Inferno. First, the spice is hot ā€“ and tasted good! Unique to this meal is a 2 oz fillet of smoked salmon packaged in a foil pouch.

    Two other new offerings introduced at the show were also very good: Pasta Parmesan had the feel of comfort food but offers more sophistication than the Kraft macaroni and cheese we cook for our kids.

    Tim Ziegler, creator of these dishes lived in Asia for three years and the sweet, subtle blend of spices in the new Saigon Chicken Noodles showed it.


    Chef Tim Ziegler with a 2 oz salmon fillet and Cajun Salmon Inferno

    Honey Stinger

    Two years ago a bored food scientist, a honey packer and his son, and a honey producer, 50% of whom also happened to be marathon runners, started EN-R-G Foods, Inc. The resulting line of bars and gels of course have lots of honey which tastes great and, according to John, the bee keeper, also offer lots of enzymes that give a more natural energy boost than what is found in other carbohydrate energy gels.

    We can certainly testify to the taste ā€“ Honey Stinger products are exceptionally smooth-flavored. Bars are offered in a variety of flavors including Berry Banana Buzz, Rocket Chocolate, Peanut Butter ā€˜N Honey, and Apple Cinnamon with Cranberries.

    Gel flavors include Ginsting (my favorite), Gold, Mint, Banana, and Chocolate.


    Beekeeper John Miller and his Honey Stinger energy bar

     

    OR News – Day 1 Roundup: New Products for Lightweight Backpacking, Hiking, and Camping (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004)

    Day 1 summary of new products from Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004.

    Buzz was enthusiastic and marketing slop was thick today on opening day of Outdoor Retailerā€™s 2004 Summer Market.

    A slew of new products have been released that will spark the interest of lightweight backpackers ā€“ everything from apparel, sleeping bags, and shelters to stoves and headlamps ā€“ thereā€™s something for everyone. Over the course of the next few days, weā€™ll be highlighting some of the coolest new gear, as well as smoking out some of the over-hyped duds from their weasel holes (we may save that for Saturday ā€“ thereā€™s too much good stuff to cover today!).

    M Top Story: New Series of Compact, Lightweight Stoves from MSR

    It seems that Jetboil started a trend in ultra-compact, integrated cooking systems. As we expected, MSR is doing it, too, and we expect them to do it better, lighter, and smaller. Introducing a radically retooled XGK (not lighter, but far more stable and packable), a 16-pound version of the Coleman ā€œBig Green Dual-Burnerā€ Redneck Stove, and, for backpackers, new white gas and canister stoves integrated with cooking pots, has retailers wanting fresh saleable hardgoods drooling. Read about the technology behind these new stoves, view detailed photos and specifications, and find out why Alan Dixon thinks these hybrid systems may set new standards for stove efficiency and design. Moreā€¦

    M New Ultralight Waterproof-Breathable Rain Jackets from Marmot, Outdoor Research, Integral Designs, Patagonia, and More

    2.5-layer woven nylon rain jackets are getting lighter ā€“ waterproof breathable technologies using 15 and 20 denier face fabrics means that twelve ounce jackets are now, well, darn heavy? Consider this: Marmot has broken the nine-ounce barrier, Outdoor Research has broken the eight-ounce barrier, Patagonia has broken the seven-ounce barrier, and Integral Designs introduces an eVENT jacket that comes in at less than ten ounces. Finally, how about this: Tyvek goes commercial ā€“ find out whoā€™s making a sub-three-ounce Tyvek jacket that may very well be the lightest rain jacket this side of Hurricane twins Bonnie and Charley. Moreā€¦

    Manufacturers Introduce New Flavors and Recipes

    The Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is a dependable venue for the introduction of new flavors and recipes. The trends weā€™re seeing: better tastes and textures, more sophisticated recipes, and an emphasis on healthier foods akin to what you might find in a fine dining establishment in a city ā€“ without the fuss, mess, and complexity of preparation. Moreā€¦

    Big Agnes 1.5-Wall Tents Blend Hybrid Fabrics and Versatile Designs

    Big Agnes makes the Seedhouse SL1 a little bigger and hybridizes the body and fly into a solo shelter that has a single wall rear half and double wall front with a retractable fly. Moreā€¦

    Big Agnes Sarvis Tents Announced (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004)

    Big Agnes introduces a new line of hybrid single/double walled tents: the Sarvis 1+ and Sarvis 2+


    The Big Agnes Sarvis SL 1+ tent: The front rainfly is rolled back to expose the mosquito netting of the front (double walled) portion of the tent. The rear is single walled silnylon with a rear vent to improve ventilation.

    Big Agnes offers the Sarvis as slightly larger and more livable, but still light, incarnations of their popular Seedhouse Super Light tents in both 1+ and 2+ person versions.

    The tents use the same pole design and body fabrics as the Seedhouse Super Light tents. But to save weight, BA makes the rear half the tent single walled, saving the weight of the inner body wall. The tents maintain most of the breathability of a double walled tent, with the addition of a rear vent in the single walled section and maintenance of the double wall structure in the front half of the tent.

    We really liked the ability to roll back the front rain fly portion of the tent for excellent stargazing and ventilation in fair weather. We’re also excited about the option Big Agnes offers of selecting eVENT panels in the rear single-walled portion of the tent to improve breathability (the Sarvis tents come in standard and eVENT-paneled versions).

    Given their living space, excellent ventilation, and integrated vestibules, the Big Agnes Sarvis shelters offer very respectable weights for free standing tents.

    • Sarvis Super Light 1+: Trail wt 2 lb 10 oz, 25.5 sq ft tent, 5 sq ft vestibule, 38 in head height
    • Sarvis Super Light 2+: Trail wt 3 lb 14 oz, 32.5 sq ft tent, 6 sq ft vestibule. The SL 2+ also has a higher head height, 46 in vs. the 38 in of the Seedhouse 2.

     


    The Sarvis 2+: This shows the front rain fly in place and the built-in vestibule. Yellow fabric showing through the door is an eVENT panel for improved ventilation in the rear of the tent.


    The Sarvis 2+ rear view: This shows the lower rear vent and the eVENT panel in yellow. There are two eyebrow vents above the rear panels. If you look closely you can see one just above the upper right corner of the eVENT panel.

     

    Integrated White Gas and Canister Stove/Cookware Systems from MSR Unveiled (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004)

    MSR debuted two lightweight backpacking stoves at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2004 – one white gas and one canister stove. Both use an integrated windscreen and cooking pot with attached heat exchanger (patent pending). Shades of JetBoil?

    MSRā€™s Capillary Stove Technology System


    The complete pot, burner windscreen and fuel reservoir system on the left. Stowed burner windscreen and fuel reservoir system on the right.

    The white gas version (MSR has not named the product, yet so weā€™ll call it the ā€œCapillary Stove Technology System,ā€ or CSTS for short). It combines almost all the positive aspects of white gas and canister stoves. It is easy to start and use (no pumping/priming). Just light and go. Since it isnā€™t pressurized there are no safety worries about pressurized fuel spurting out. Unlike a canister stove, you can load the gas chamber with exactly the amount of fuel you need for your trip.

    The stove offers consistent performance (heat output) at lower temperatures and fuel levels (canister stove performance goes down with temperature and/or fuel level). Although they are still testing prototypes and fine tuning its performance, MSR claims that the CSTS will be the most efficient white gas stove on the market.


    MSRā€™s Capillary Stove Technology System: The complete pot with integrated heat exchanger on the left, burner and fuel reservoir system on the right. Small white plug in center is the stoveā€™s Vapore-Jet disk.

    The innovative technology in the CSTS is a small ceramic disk, made by Vapore-Jet. The Vapore-Jet replaces the pump, pre-heat wire and orifice of a conventional white gas stove.

    The disk is comprised of three sections:

    1) The lowest section has small pores that wicks fuel from the reservoir via capillary action. This replaces the pump pressure of a standard white gas stove.

    2) The middle level has lager pores where the liquid fuel heated from the burner and flame changes to a heated gas. This replaces the pre-heat tube of a standard white gas stove.

    3) The thin top layer is solid and has two small orifices that are analogous to the small metal orifice on a standard white gas stove. The stove has a small flame adjustment that has three settings, high (both orifices open), half power (one orifice open), and off (both orifices closed). For more information on this technology see Vapore-Jetā€™s website: http://www.vapore.com/tech_howto.htm.


    The Vapore-Jet disk. The innovative center of pumpless/pressureless white gas stove technology.

    The stove is heavy compared to a complete canister stove cook system (although possibly not heavier than a complete ultralight white gas system). MSR feels that production models of the system will break the 18 oz barrier. At that weight, it will be similar to, but slightly lighter than the JetBoil if you include the weight of the JetBoilā€™s empty fuel canister.


    Detail of pot bottom, integrated heat exchanger, wind screen, stove burner, and fuel reservoir of the MSR CSTS.

    The MSR holds 5.2 oz of fuel vs. 4.0 oz for the JetBoil and if MSRā€™s efficiency claims holds true it will boil more water with a full fuel reservoir than a JetBoil with a 4 oz fuel canister. It will also have better cold weather performance.

    We see the potential to significantly lighten the CSTS by replacing the cooking vesselā€™s stainless steel with titanium. As we pointed out in our JetBoil review, there are much lighter canister stove cooking systems out there (again, possibly no lighter white gas systems). The stove does not offer ultra fast boil times or heat outputā€”5.5 min for 1-liter and 5,650 BTU vs. sub-4-minute times and 10,000 to 16,000 BTU of other stoves. We could easily overlook this if its efficiency claims hold true.

    MSR had a working version of this stove on the Outdoor Retailer show floor and we saw the CSTS in operation. Stay tuned for a review at BackpackingLight.com in early 2005. Expected availability to retailers is July 2005.

    Integrated Canister Stove Cooking System

    The canister stove system also remains unnamed and is in a state of vapor-ware at this time: MSR offered no fliers, technical specifications, or working models. A single mockup of the system remained enshrouded in a glass case.

    So for now, weā€™ll call it the ā€œMSR Integrated Canister Stove Cooking Systemā€ (ICSCS). It is built similar to the new white gas stove with a familiar looking integrated burner and cooking pot with attached heat exchanger (patent pending). Again MSR claims that this model will offer unparalleled efficiency with forced convection of its combustion gasses passing through a high performance heat exchanger. In this case the integrated heat exchanger and burner also form a windscreen. Availability of this model is sketchy with earliest estimates of ā€œHoliday of 2005ā€ (November 2005?) for production.


    The MSR ICSCS: Integrated stove burner and cooking pot with attached heat exchanger. The integrated heat exchanger and burner also form a windscreen.