The 60-Second Backpacker is a video series that provides bite-sized shorts about equipment, techniques, and philosophy of ultralight backpacking.
Not knowing what your backpacking gear weighs is a barrier to lightening your pack effectively. In this episode of The 60-Second Backpacker, you’ll learn why digital scales, spreadsheets, and being honest with yourself are the foundation for lightening up!
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These lessons are aimed at beginners and are based on experiences while hiking the JMT. They are adaptable to any hiking setting and can certainly make the trip more enjoyable.
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In this Week’s News: It’s time for the 2015 Packraft Roundup, a father scares a bear away to save his son, five trails to know in the Colorado area, get to know Leslie Hittmeier, and much more!
If you’d like to submit a link to a timely (fresh) story for us to consider including in our next installment, please send it along to submissions@backpackinglight.com with the subject line “BPL NEWS DIGEST”.
2014 Packraft Roundup: Photo courtesy of The American Packrafting Association
The American Packrafting Association 2015 Packraft Roundup is happening July 12-14, 2015 on the North Fork of the Flathead River! The Roundup will take place at the group campsite at Big Creek Campground on the North Fork… the same place that was used last year. The schedule is still evolving, but here’s a list of some of the things you can look forward to:
Father (Greg Alexander) and son (Gabriel Alexander) were backpacking in the Smoky Mountains when their campsite was visited by a black bear. They had their food hung away from the campsite where they were sleeping in hammocks. Gabriel was pulled out of his hammock by the bear. His father Greg awoke and was able to scare the bear away. A swift hike to a nearby lakeside campsite was made where local campers with a boat provided a ride across the lake, and eventually the two made it to the hospital via airlift. Gabriel Alexander came away with multiple lacerations but was declared stable by doctors. When asked about the experience the duo agreed that the chances of a bear attack are rare and should not keep people from getting out of doors.
If you are looking for some hikes that you can do over the summer and you live in the Colorado area, you may want to try these hikes. Blue Lake Loop near Monte Vista, an eighteen-mile loop described as being “wild and remote”. The loop straddles the Continental Divide and was once home to the last known Colorado Grizzly. Bear Creek Trail to Engineer Pass near Ouray is a shorter journey that is rich with views and places to adventure. Approximately seven miles in there is a campground. Four Pass Loop near Aspen provides 10,000 feet of vertical gain and 26 miles of travel. Macey Lakes near Westcliff located in the Sangre De Cristo mountains. The seven-mile hike up will provide great views and plenty of challenge for the experienced hiker. Lastly, Sand Ramp Trail in Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. A sandy trail with forest glens and views of the Sangre De Christo Mountains are what to look forward to when hiking this less elevated trail.
Upcoming backpacking trips are in the works for youths ages 12-14 with the Chippewa Nature Center. This trip will follow the shores of the Manistee River from July 13-17. Another trip for youth ages 14-16 is planned at Porcupine State Park on July 28- August 5. Both trips provide a CNC adventure leader. Registration fees and membership fees can be found on Chippewanaturecenter.org.
Five Hikes for Kids – Five hikes in the Olympic National Park that Thurstontalk.com says are perfect for kids.
ENDERS 2015 JOURNEY – Follow Ender as he ventures out on the Colorado Trail (Denver to Durango) on trailjournals.com.
This weeks photo is brought to you by @_the_glass_studio.
Getting your base weight or skin-out weight down is something that we all focus on here at B.P.L. In the forums you can get a lot of insight into reducing weight. There are several principles involved to the practice. Leaving home non-essentials, looking for items that have multiple purposes, and reducing the weight of essential items are all things that are going to aid in the total weight reduction of gear that you carry. Some of the best ways to learn about going lighter are from fellow hikers.
Solitude, exceptional views, and stories that I can take home with me are all things that I look forward to when backpacking. Add great food to that list and my trip becomes epic. Dehydrated food doesn’t usually equate to a memorable meal (at least not in a good way) for me. I have been on trips where friends were venturous enough to pack in steaks for the first night. That was an exceptional treat! Smoked sausage Jambalaya also sounds like it would be delicious.
BECOMING AN OUTDOORS WOMAN – Ladies in the Michigan area may want to check this out. UpperMichiganssource.com.
PATAGONIA CULTURAL EXPEDITION – Take a trip to Patagonia with N.O.L.S and learn some mountain skills.
Knowing what gear to take on a trip is important. Before you go on a multi-day trip you will want to assess what items will be key for a safe and fun adventure. Making a gear list before you leave will help you to not leave out something important. Knowing information about the locale of where you will be hiking can aid in what to bring with you. Are you expecting wet weather? Are you going to sleep exposed in a sleeping bag, or are you going to need to pack a shelter? Do you have the appropriate clothing layers for the trip you are taking? Outside Online shares their take on how to be ready for your backpacking trip.
There are a lot of choices on the market for shirts made with outdoor activities in mind. For me, the choice is usually consisting of something that is going to be comfortable in several climates for extended periods of time, and hopefully won’t smell horrible after a few days of wearing it. A traditional style shirt with modern materials and fit can provide things that can be beneficial for the backpacker. Ultraviolet protection, insect repellant finishes, antimicrobial, breathable and moisture wicking fabrics all add to the list of features available to you today. See how the Mountain Hardwear Men’s Drummond stacks up from the perspective of Isaac Tait.
WHAT TO EAT – A look at which premade meals are the tastiest, and which meals are not so delightful. The Stranger shares five foods to try while backpacking, plus a recipe.
FUEL FOR THE FIRE – Read a review about Wetfire Tender from All that Humains.
Not only is she photographing some of the most amazing things that people can do, Leslie Hittmeier is also doing those things with the people that she writes about and photographs. Based out of Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado she is on the go working and enjoying life at the same time. She has an excellent collection of photos and multimedia on her website. You can follow Leslie on Instagram by searching for @lhittmeier.
Hiking can be challenging enough if you are in perfect health. Hiking with Diabetes presents a different set of challenges on top of the things that are already presented in a backpacking trip. The Living Vertical Podcast aims to give insight to being outdoors and getting more active even if you have diabetes. The latest podcast features an interview with Josie Johnson, a seventeen-year-old girl who has had type one diabetes since she was eleven years old. She discusses her first backpacking trip and the experience that she had.
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Introductory Reviews for La Sportiva Helios SR, Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System, and the Nalgene Flask.
La Sportiva Helios SR: The La Sportiva “Impact Braking System” outsole consists of U-shaped lugs oriented in opposite directions for traction while climbing and braking while descending, steep terrain. One scenario where I really noticed its effectiveness: hiking or running on trails that were steep, dry, and dusty, with a loose “ball-bearing” type surface of grit and pebbles.
A neutral trail shoe with a sticky sole that is designed to be used on technical trails.
Shoes with a wide forefoot, like the Altra Lone Peak (my staple for trail hiking for the past several years), have their place, but steep, technical terrain is not one of them. I’m constantly on the lookout for an ultralight trail shoe that has a slipper-like fit, low drop, a sticky and well-designed sole that can be used in both loose crud and bare rock, and is narrow enough for technical placements but wide enough for a decent fit without being sloppy.
I (Ryan) have had my eyes on the La Sportiva Helios SR since it was announced and have been eager to try them. I finally had the chance to put them through their paces on a recent trip to the Tetons. Here are my first impressions:
In short, the La Sportiva Helios SR is very light, well-cushioned, sensitive to the terrain underfoot, protective (due to the rock plate), and offers effective traction on a variety of terrain surfaces. It’s very low cut is unobtrusive and its last shape provides a positive balance of forefoot room (size up one size for more comfort) and technical control.
Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System
A lightweight, small and simple water filtration system that can screw onto many threaded bottles.
There are so many ways to filter or clean your drinking water. The Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System makes the process fairly simple. It comes with a 16 oz. collection bag that the filter can screw directly onto. A straw to connect to the bottom of the filter if you only had a large mouth container, like a pot. The filter itself which is clearly labeled for ease of use. Finally, there is a large syringe provided for backflushing the filter. The filter can also be attached inline on a hydration system, or it can be screwed directly onto another bottle of common size like a standard water bottle. The manufacturer says that it will filter 100,000 gallons. I (Jonathan) have had no issues with using the filter while connected to a bottle, but I have not tried to install the filter inline on a hydration bladder type system. This may not be a winter solution for everyone since you cannot let the filter freeze. I think there are preventative measures one could take to keep the filter from freezing, like keeping near your body while on the move and while sleeping. The specs listed above are provided from the manufacturer, I have not performed any laboratory testing on this product. I have used the filter and have not gotten sick from using it, so I am pleased with the results.
Nalgene Flask: Shown with all pieces together and taken apart.
A BPA-free flask that comes with a sleeve and 1 oz. shot cap.
A flask is not on my top list of priorities when I (Jonathan) am backpacking. However, I was gifted one of these recently and decided that I would find out the different ways I could use it (aside from the obvious). The flask does have some handy features. The cap is a two piece construction. The outer cap is a 1 oz. shot and the inner cap is similar to a standard water bottle cap but sturdier. The standard threads mean that you can replace it with the cap of almost any regular water bottle cap if you accidentally lost it. The outer sleeve is also BPA free and serves nicely for water collection and it also has a measurement mark on it showing 1 oz. and 1.5 oz. My Sawyer mini will also screw right on to the neck of the flask. If you wanted to use it just for water, the outer sleeve and shot cap being removed brings the weight of the flask down significantly from 4.2 ounces to 1.8 ounces. The flask also has measurement marks on it showing ounces (counting by two’s) and milliliters. I find this helpful if you like to keep track of how much water you are consuming while you are on the go. The shot cap is initially somewhat hard to separate from the inner cap after a few uses it becomes easier to remove. The outer sleeve does not provide a positive friction that holds the sleeve on by itself, so I would say that it is best to carry the flask inside your pack or on a side pocket. If you are looking for a flask that is somewhat lightweight and don’t want to worry about leaks, consider trying the Nalgene flask.
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An historical comparison of the philosophies of two of the leading pioneers of conservation and the wilderness regions they helped create.
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News this week: Get a look at the Tahoe Rim Trail, a stove shootout, meet the founder of Soul RIver Runs Wild, and more.
If you’d like to submit a link to a timely (fresh) story for us to consider including in our next installment, please send it along to submissions@backpackinglight.com with the subject line “BPL NEWS DIGEST”.
Near Big Bear in the San Bernardino National Forest a fire started and had spread to nearly 15,000 acres. Inciweb is giving updated information as the fire continues to spread. Closures for the PCT from Whitewater Preserve to the Onyx Summit are in effect. All hiking trails into the San Gorgonio Wilderness area are closed because of the proximity of the fire. Highway 38 is closed between Angelus Oaks to Lake Williams. There are also several places in the vicinity being evacuated. Currently, the fire is only 10% contained.
Snowmelt in larger volumes than normal has raised a cautionary advisement for Fairplay Colorado anglers to stay away from streams and rivers in the Southpark area. There are many streams already overrunning their banks and snowmelt in the high country has not yet begun. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is advising anglers to fish reservoirs like Eleven Mile, Spinney, and Tarryall instead. Plans to release excess water from Tarryall dam would also increase the level of moving water in streams and rivers. Parks and Wildlife officials say that levels should be safer for fishing on moving water in a few weeks.
SIXTY-SIX PEOPLE ON ONE SURF BOARD – Huntington Beach; sixty-six people get on one very big surf board. Topix.com.
MAN DIES IN HANG GLIDING ACCIDENT -A New York man has died in a hang gliding accident in Maryland Wtop.com.
Walking through the fog on the Tahoe Rim Trail. Photo courtesy of Lady on a Rock -Christy Rosander.
The Tahoe Rim Trail is 172 miles long. Christy “Rockin” Rosander and her friends just completed the TRT. This trail has many beautiful views to take in. Alpine conditions and varied terrain including snow are some of the things you can expect to see even in early June. Get a look at the many photos that Rockin’ took as well as the details from the trip.
Join Scout and Frodo (trail names) as they hike the CDT. Their last entry to the trail journal was logged on day fifty-one starting at Two Medicine and Ending in East Glacier Park. Entries have been fairly regular with photos of the journey. They share some tips on alternate uses of restroom hand dryers. Scout meets a day hiker from Austria. The days journey ends with Mexican food! Feel free to look at past entries to catch up on the trip.
Bull of The Wilderness Part One -Take a trip with Erin Miller to the Bull of the Wilderness Trail; Erin Miller Blog.
MARION MOUNTAIN AND JEAN PEAK – get a look at Marion Mountain and Jean Peak on Healthylistic.
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There are different rules for safety in different environments. It should go without saying that safety is high on the list of priorities when you are hiking. Especially if you are hiking alone. A good place to start with being prepared is to take a course on basic first aid. It is also very important to know what to bring with you on a trip. Reading through gear lists is a good place to start looking for what to bring. Eric Hansen from Backpacking TV gives his take on backpacking safety.
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Getting into shape before you leave on a backpacking trip is important. There are many ways to train. This particular article focuses on ways for people above the age of fifty to get into shape. Courtenay Schurman is nearing fifty years old and loves backpacking. She presents an exercise that is supposed to improve balance and flexibility. The Warrior Reverse Flye, a hybrid exercise that actually could be beneficial to people of all ages.
Amy’s Top Ten Backpacking Foods -Amy Sinisterra shares her most favorite foods to take backpacking on The Inlander .
SELF ARREST WITHOUT SNOW! -How do you learn self arrest skills without snow? a href=”https://www.mountaineers.org/blog/how-to-evaluate-self-arrest-skills-without-snow”> Moutaineers.orgattempts to teach a class how to self arrest without snow on the ground.
Woolrich is producing three blankets that feature a design theme for the AT, PCT, and CDT.The blankets are designed to be a throw. According to GearJunkie 100% of the proceeds from the first fifty blanket sales are supposed to go to fund nonprofits that support the trails. The blankets measure 40″ x 60″. They retail for $185.00 and are made of 95% soft wool and 5% synthetic materials.
It’s a shootout between the Speedster stove and the BushBuddy Ultra. Fuel vs. wood. There are so many stoves on the market to choose from and only so much time to buy and test them. You may as well read about the results that others have gotten to aid you in deciding what you want to use to boil water. The BushBuddy Ultra is out of production, but you may be able to find one or something similar on the secondary market. The Speedster Stove is from a company based out of the U.K. The burner of the stove has a spill-proof lid so that you can leave meths in the burner once the fire is put out.
THE SAWYER MINI -Blackowl Outdoors shows how they use the Sawyer Mini Water filter.
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Chad Brown is a former military veteran turned gear designer. He has started a company named Soul River Runs deep. The company offers apparel and gear for anglers and 15% of the profits from Soul River Runs Deep are put into his other nonprofit Soul River Runs Wild. The nonprofit pairs at-risk children with veterans, outfitting them and taking them out to fish. The idea is that you can use fishing as an outlet for positive change in the lives of people that have been through some negative situations. Brown has used fishing as a means of therapeutic treatment for P.T.S.D. After realizing how well it worked for him, he knew that he wanted to share the experience with others.
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Follow Jedidiah Jenkins as he travels on his bicycle from Oregon to Patagonia. He has been living on his bike for over a year now. His friend Kenny Laubbacher has spent a month traveling with him, filming and interviewing Jedidiah. He explains why he wants to live on his bike, camping and traveling instead of working a nine to five in the states.
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The Thousand Year Journey: Oregon To Patagonia from Kenny Laubbacher on Vimeo.
Backpacking in the west can be physically challenging and logistically belittling to the uninitiated however don’t let that stop you! The rewards of this exploration are worth the hardship.
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Introductory Reviews for MSR Aquatabs, WoolX Men’s Lightweight T-Shirt, and the Thrunite Ti-3.
MSR Aquatabs
Domestic sheep grazing at high altitudes in some Rocky Mountain areas, such as the Wind River Range (Wyoming) or High Uintas (Utah, pictured) may warrant water treatment methods that aggressively target the inactive of protozoan cysts, such as Giardia and Cryptosporidia (Photo: Ottoman Basin, High Uinta Wilderness, Utah; by Ryan Jordan).
Water treatment tablets that make two liters of water safe to drink in thirty minutes.
The lightest and simplest water treatment options have always been chemical tablets. However, iodine tablets usually impart a terrible taste and chlorine dioxide tablets require several hours of treatment time. MSR Aquatabs seem to solve both issues. My (Ryan’s) first experience with them was on a trek last year in the High Uinta Wilderness, where high altitude tundra headwaters are heavily contaminated by feces from open sheep grazing. We used MSR Aquatabs for these locations, and more traditional chemical methods (e.g., Aqua Mira) in areas where sheep weren’t grazing. As I become more comfortable with MSR Aquatabs, I find myself using them more often – there is a benefit to the simplicity of dropping a tablet in a water bottle without having to worry about mixing chemicals, fiddling with electrochemistry or ultraviolet lamps, or maintaining a filter.
WoolX Men’s Lightweight T-shirt
100% merino wool baselayers with superb fit, itchless finish, and easy-care maintenance.
I’m a fan of gear that keeps my life simple (Ryan). Merino wool garments are a part of that, and I’ve been wearing them for years. But not all of them contribute to simplicity. A little bit of itch here and there, lack of durability, loss of fit over time – just a few things that have been minor annoyances with garments that can cost a C-note or more. That’s where WoolX comes in. I’ve been wearing the lightweight “Daily Boxers” and short sleeve “Outback T-Shirt”. They wear well, fit well, do not itch, and, of course, offer all of the benefits that I love about all 100% merino garments – odor resistance and comfort over wide temperature ranges. They can be laundered normally (I wash all my clothes using a mild detergent with cold water, and a low-heat drying cycle) without altering the fiber structure. The garments have a trim fit suitable for those with a lean, athletic build – size up one size if you want a little looser (but not baggy) fit. My favorite part about the shirts: they’re long-hemmed, and have gusseted underarms – which makes them stay put while reaching your arms overhead. In a crowded merino baselayer market, WoolX has made positive inroads with an excellent product, at a cheaper price and a lighter weight than the beloved designer brands that think they own the place.
Thrunite Ti-3
A flashlight that is small and light enough to carry with you everywhere, and bright enough to substitute for a headlamp in a pinch.
I (Jonathan) have been carrying a small flashlight on my person every day for almost a decade. That flashlight has changed brands and reduced in size and weight over the years. Becoming brighter and smaller, weighing less, and using more common batteries. I have found small flashlights like this to be indispensable for daily use. The obvious advantage of having a flashlight with you all the time is that you have the ability to find things in dark places. Another advantage to having a light like this with you all the time is that it can be quickly substituted for a headlamp, say if you forgot to pack one, or if the headlamp you brought had mysteriously activated inside your pack and drained the battery. The Thrunite Ti-3 is light, small, inexpensive, and reliable. I think that it is a great item to add to your pocket, keychain, or hat brim.
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An author and composer writes a music suite based off his memories on the PCT.
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News This Week: Wrangell Alaska is left high and dry, a backpacker survives fifty meter fall, spend the day trekking Tahoma, a Camp Chef Stove that weighs 8.3 ounces, and much more.
If you’d like to submit a link to a timely (fresh) story for us to consider including in our next installment, please send it along to submissions@backpackinglight.com with the subject line “BPL NEWS DIGEST”.
Located in what is known as the rainforest of Alaska, Wrangell is experiencing record lows of precipitation. Local officials have declared an official water shortage and have asked people to reduce their usage. Restrictions on logging were put into place on May 22 due to the lack of rain. There were over 900 lightning strikes recorded in one night, which is rare for the area. All of these things combined with a low snowpack of 35 inches in Juneau versus the 90 inches that fell last year, point to evidence of drought. Some people are saying that the sky looks more like a California Skyline than what is typical Alaskan Sky.
The benefits of backpacking are many. There are many stress relievers that accompany backpacking. There are also a lot of physical health benefits, not only in the form of weight loss, possibly burning five-hundred calories an hour. Regular aerobic activity is also proven to help people live longer. Becoming a stronger version of yourself is almost always a guarantee when you carry a pack for long distances. The training leading up to a long distance trip alone can be what really peaks your performance.
RANTING ON ETHICAL TREE FELLING -Hill Country News shares an Essay by Michael Branch on the ethics of cutting trees.
BACKPACKER SURVIVED FIFTY METER FALL – A backpacker wearing light clothing survived a fifty meter fall from icy terrain after being rescued. NZCity News.
Take a trip as seen through the lens of Sarah from TrailCooking.com. This photoblog style trail report gives views from around Mt. Rainier. Photos from the Cowlitz Divide Trail. As well as a couple of good reasons to take kids on an adventure. All photos show conditions in the area to be less of a snowpack than usual.
Start off with shorter trips instead of planning a thru-hike. There are many different places that offer shorter trails. You could even travel sections of a longer trail like the Pacific Crest Trail or the Appalachian Trail. If you are near the Tahoe area there are five shorter hikes that you could consider. Loch Leven Lakes, Five Lakes in the Granite Chief Wilderness, Lake Winnemucca, Lake Margaret, and Lake Aloha are all near Tahoe and offer shorter distances.
CHECK OUT THE ORO GRANDE TRAIL IN SUMMIT COUNTY – Summit County has a great trail known as the Oro Grande Trail, read more from Summit Daily.
BACKPACKING WITH THE BOYS – Brent Gill shares his memories as a young father who is attending college, on a tight budget, but has a desire to take his family backpacking. Porterville Recorder.
This week’s photo comes from Ryan Jordan of Backpacking Light.
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The summer season is nearly upon us, the kids are out of school, and more people will be out on the trails. There are bound to be a lot of newbies deciding to venture out of doors and even taking their families or friends with them. This article covers the basics of what you should be thinking about before you decide to go backpacking. This is not to say that they are the only things to think about and plan before going, but it can serve as a place to start. Always remember to travel within your limits, and follow leave no trace principles.
With ten minutes to pack for a backpacking trip, what would you take? This is the question that is posed by Alastair Humphreys in one of his latest blog posts. There are several ways to know that you are ready for the adventure ahead of time. You could always keep a bag packed with the essentials that you need for a general trip. A different bag for different seasons could also be feasible. A packing list divided up by category is another tool that will aid in packing for your next trip.
TIPS FROM HIKING EXPERTS -Some hiking experts share their input for making the most out of your hike in this article from Summit Daily.
KEEP THE BUGS AWAY! – Dave Collins from Cleverhiker shares some of the ways that he keeps the insects off.
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Do you like to hike with your dog? Do you pack a first aid kit for your dog? Injuries in the middle of nowhere are something that most of us prepare for in our own first aid kits. A specialized kit for your dog is also something that is now available from Adventure Medical Kits. The kit supplies you with most of the necessities for treating cuts and abrasions, sprains, first aid instruction, and medicating for your dog if the need should arise. The kit weighs 1.47 pounds and can fit into a dog’s saddle bags. The retail on this first aid kit is $50.00 U.S.D.
Joe Robinet is about to venture into Killarney Provincial Park. He shares with us a look at the gear that he will take. He has included some items that can have multiple uses. He also talks a bit about having dehydrated his own meals. Joe shares reasons why he does not use many stuff sacks. He discusses the gear he is taking and most of the reasons for taking the specific pieces. The video comes to completion with how it is all packed and some information on Killarney Provincial Park.
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CAMP CHEF ENTERS THE PACKABLE STOVE MARKET – CampChef has released a stove called the “Stryker Stove” that is very similar in look to a Jetboil stove.
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A STOVE THAT COOKS WITH SOLAR POWER – This stove can cook a meal with no more fuel than the power of the sun, check it out on Gear Junkie.
Adriana Aristeiguieta has used backpacking as a means of fighting depression. It worked so well that she has also started a non-profit organization named “Trails to Tomorrow” which has the goal of helping those that are struggling with depression through outdoor activity. The Duluth News Tribune recently asked Adriana five questions about how backpacking helped her through her depression, and how T2T aims to help others.
Climber, Highliner, and Base Jumper Dean Potter (April 14, 1972 – May 16, 2015) has died at age 43. He was known for his free climbing feats, summits, and base jumping (sometimes with his dog tucked into a pack on his wingsuit). A man that overcame fear by facing it straight on, he had the ability to push beyond terror to accomplish things that most people would not consider attempting. His death caused many people outside of his sport to talk about his life as being reckless. Aaron Teasdale writes a more inspiring perspective about the way that Potter lived his life.
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Watch this inspiring footage from MSB-Films while journeying in Austraila
A challenging yet rewarding trip exposes these youth to the joys of backpacking and kindles their love of the outdoors.
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Introductory Reviews for Paleo Meals To Go, Good Wipes, and Lite Trail NyloPro Bags.
Paleo Meals To Go- Palisade Pineapple and Mango
A healthier freeze dried meal you can take anywhere. You only need boiled water and six minutes to prepare. h3 The Specs
I was excited to try this meal. It looked very promising, and I really love coconuts and mangos. I wasn’t sure about how substantial it would be as a meal on it’s own, and I wondered if it would give me enough energy. It did give me adequate energy, and it was very filling.The meal weighed 145 grams on my scale. The pouch was quality construction and could be reused to carry refuse after you eat the meal. The meal was easy to prepare. I did give it an extra two minutes on the rehydration time (8 minutes). The taste was enjoyable, I could taste little chunks of pineapple and bits of mango, there was a bit of vanilla flavor. The texture of the meal was pretty thick, I think this was in part to the flaxseed meal, almond flour, walnuts, pecans, and bananas. If the taste of the Palisade Pineapple and Mango is any indicator of the other flavors I would be happy to use them regularly. The nutrition information was interesting for the meal that had no meat, no dairy, no gluten etc. There are 680 calories per serving, 450 of them from fat. Total fat was 50 grams, I was very surprised upon reading that information. The nutrition facts on the label went as follows:
Good Wipes- For Down There
A small single use body wipe marketed toward Women. h3 The Specs
I received these wipes for testing and to share my thoughts on them. These wipes are offered in two sizes. One is a body wipe size, and the other is smaller for personal wiping (meant to replace the toilet paper or for personal cleaning). The wipes that we are looking at are the personal size. They have a version marketed for both men and women. This review will discuss the version marketed to women. They are a great size and weigh only six grams per pouch. The product worked as stated as a replacement for toilet paper. The website for the wipes says that they are biodegradable. However the wrapper of the pouch does not appear to be biodegradable, so it looks like you would have to pack those with you. Improvements could be made to this product. Instead of being scented with they should be unscented for anyone that wants to use them backpacking.
Lite Trail NyloPro Bags
Tied closed, still room for more.
Packed with five meals.
Storage bags with a scent barrier intended to be used as a liner for a stuff sack or bear canister.
This bag can be used for a pack liner for packs up to 16 liters, it was a pretty close fit to my 18-liter pack. You can also use it for a bear bag or canister liner. I wanted to try this out as an odor barrier, so I wrapped up some Chicken Tikka Masala that was nearing the end of it’s prime. I rolled the bag down like a roll top bag, then twisted it closed and wrapped the provided polyester twist tie around it. I set the bag outside on my porch (off the ground) and waited for my neighbor to let his Dachshund out. About an hour later I heard the neighbor’s door open, seconds later the motion detecting light was activated, so I looked outside to see the little Dachshund standing there nose pointing directly to the bag of chicken. I realize this was not anything near a laboratory test, but before I go taking a bag into the woods of Montana counting on it to keep Bears from coming over for a taste of food, I want to know that it will work. In defense of the bag’s odor blocking capabilities, there is a big difference in odor in Chicken Tikka Masala and G.O.R.P. and prepackaged freeze-dried meals. I like everything else about this bag. It is simple in construction, durable, and very light. The bags are still available from Trail Lite. Here is some information from Trail Lite.
Included: (3) 18×25 bags, (3) 6″ Polyester Twist Ties
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A place of stillness and calm, the desert can be a harsh, dry environment but for many it is a haven for contemplation and peace.
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The Bob Marshall Wilderness is home to some of the best wilderness packrafting in the lower 48 with options for novices and experts alike. Explore this beautiful country just remember to be mindful of our responsibility to care for this land.
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News this week: Rising Arctic Temperatures, California’s El Nino, Yellowstone Rangers Save a Man’s Life, Turn a Low-Cost Tent into a Great Tent, and Much More.
If you’d like to submit a link to a timely (fresh) story for us to consider including in our next installment, please send it along to submissions@backpackinglight.com with the subject line “BPL NEWS DIGEST”.
Professor Edward Hannah and Ph.D. Student Richard Hall ( University of Sheffield ) are in the process of researching what effect increasing temperatures in the Arctic have on other parts of the world. They have theorized that the increased temperatures in the Arctic during 2014 added to the extreme weather that was happening in the U.S. and U.K. Arctic temperatures are increasing two to three times faster than the temperatures in mid-level latitudes. Their theories point to this as a cause for a wavier jet stream and weaker upper-level westerly winds, which was likely the reason for the cold weather in the Eastern Seaboard and Midwestern United States in the last two years. Professor Hannah is quoted as saying “Our work presents tantalising new evidence of links between global warming, which is enhanced in high northern latitudes, and recent extreme winter weather events in the UK and further afield, as well as a timely review of much recent literature which has appeared in this important field of research. However, since the climate system is highly complex, many missing parts of the puzzle remain and much further work needs to be done.”
The Drought in California has continued for the last four years. There has been a talk of the El Nino in this coming winter that could bring enough rainfall to relieve the situation. However, Climatologists say that it is too soon to estimate that El Nino would be able to alleviate or end the current drought. After all, in thirty-five years California has only experienced two major El Nino’s. Those were in 1982-83 which produced 18.26 inches of rain in the San Diego area. The other was in 1997-98 which brought 17.78 inches of rain, compared to the normal amount of 10.34 inches. Rising ocean climate temperatures have a great part to play in the El Nino. With projections of a rise in Pacific Ocean temperatures of three degrees higher than normal in the upcoming months, the El Nino could be powerful. But Climatologists say that it is still early to tell. “The setup looks promising, but I would be somewhat reserved about going way overboard,” said Climatologist Dan Cayan (Scripps Institution of Oceanography in UC San Diego).
YELLOWSTONE PARK RANGERS SAVE MAN’S LIFE – While walking backward to take a photo, a 71 year old man stumbled over a rock barrier and fell twenty-five feet. He was able to stop himself before falling another 200 feet into the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. A nearby visitor witnessed the fall and called 911. Park Rangers were able to respond to the emergency. They found the man bracing himself on opposing sides of a crevice with his hands and feet.
NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBES OPPOSE REMOVING GRIZZLY BEARS FROM PROTECTED STATUS – Thirty-Five tribes in the United States have united to form an alliance called G.O.A.L which means “Guardians of our Ancestral Legacy”. Included in G.O.A.L are all of the Native American tribes of Montana, Wyoming, North and South Dakota, Nebraska, and the Cherokee and Navajo tribes. The tribes are opposing the Grizzly Bear’s removal from the protected status that it currently has. Read more from Wyofile
WILL MCGOUGH HIGHLIGHTS SHORTER HIKES AROUND THE U.S. – According to Outside there are many options for shorter thru-hikes around the U.S. For those of you that may not have the time to take six months off to complete the P.C.T or Appalachian Trail, you may want to consider a shorter trip. Will McGough highlight trails in Vermont, Oregon, California, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and more.
With daytime temperatures being an average of 110-120 degrees Fahrenheit, volcanoes, bubbling pools of acid water and an elevation that lies 100 meters below sea level, the Danakil Depression is an inhospitable place. It is among the hottest places on Earth based off average temperatures. That doesn’t stop it from being visited every year. Recently Ryan Salm took the trip there to capture images and write about his experiences there.
In the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, a group of Creighton University students began an assignment for the university’s fourth Backpack Journalism Expedition. They were making a film that captured the way of life that has been around for centuries, and the now changing climate’s effects on the way of life that the Yupik people have known. The film named “Mother Kuskokwim” was made by sixteen students and three faculty members. It is now being played in film festivals around the U.S.
TAKE A WALK UP TO MULTNOMAH FALLS– Steps To Wander shows us the views from Multnomah Falls in Oregon.
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FIRST HAMMOCK TRIP – Syntax77 takes his wife on her first hammock backpacking trip in the Shenandoah National Park.
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Learn five different ways to construct a camp fire. Learn what basics are needed to make fire as well as different arrangements for your fire. Different constructs help with different conditions of weather and intended use of the fire. Remember to only use a campfire if necessary and where legal, safe, and responsible. Please always practice leave no trace Principles before leaving your campsite.
Cattails are not just for admiring. This plant actually has several functions that humans can benefit from, including providing you with nutrients. If you happen to find yourself in a situation without food, remember that the stalks and roots are edible and contain starch. Another benefit is that they usually grow near water. Disclaimer; eating wild edibles is dangerous and should only be practiced under the supervision of a professional instructor.
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LEARN HOW TO TIE A HEEL LOCK – Hey Runners, here is a video on how to keep your heel from slipping up and down inside your shoes from Pop Sugar.
TURN A LOW COST TENT INTO A GREAT TENT – TacBlades turns one of the least expensive tents that he could find into a quality tent. He shares what improvements can be made yourself with a sewing machine, and details about how to make the improvements with a sewing machine.
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KNIFE SELECTION AND SAFETY-Dave Collins shows different types of knife choices and why you would carry that knife backpacking. He also covers knife safety and resharpening in the field.
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Backpacking in South Korea
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Robert Alan Eustace holds the world record for highest freefall. Mr. Eustace is a retired executive (Google), Computer Scientist, and Adventurer. Working with Paragon, Alan dove from 135,000 feet into the stratosphere. He broke the previous record for highest freefall which was held by Felix Baumgartner (128,000 feet).
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Dan and Janine Patitucci are Mountain Sports Photographers. They are based out of Interlaken Switzerland. They have a very lightweight approach to their business, often carrying one camera body and relying more on the knowledge and skills it takes to make a great photograph instead of weighing themselves down with excessive equipment.
MEET SOME HIKERS ON THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL – Stickman interviews several Thruhikers on the Appalachian Trail. He is taking trail names, spreading the word about Leave No Trace, and finding out why people hike the Appalachian Trail.
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INTERVIEW WITH ETHAN LEMIEUX – Hike and Tell interviews Thruhiker Ethan Lemieux about the Palmetto Trail
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When it comes to the choice of first aid kit, what do you include for a lightweight solution? Premade first aid kits are available in many different sizes, with different activities in mind. The idea is to have something small enough to keep in your pocket, but still include main essentials for possible emergencies that you may have on a specific activity. AllOutdoor1 chose to piece together his own kit to meet his personal needs.
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While these poles have been on the market longer, they still have some nice features. They are a three section pole that features a flick lock instead of some other styles that require you to twist the sections to lock them into place. Sugemery shows some of the reasons he loves these trekking poles.
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GEAR TALK WITH KIM HAVELL – Pro Skier Kim Havell shares some of her favorite gear.
BACKCOUNTRY EDGE SHOWS THE FEATURES OF THE OSPREY KYTE 36 WOMEN’S BACKPACK-Backcountry Edge offers a look at this backpack designed for women. Highlighting possible uses of the bag, and giving a look at how it adjusts and what the key features are.
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The First 40 Miles is a podcast for beginning backpackers. This episode covers several topics including the explosion in interest in backpacking, the top five things to try on a future backpacking trip, a Summit Gear review of the Crazy CreekHex 2.0 Original Camp Chair, backpack hacks, and a little humor. The hosts Heather and Josh Legler are posting new episodes every Tuesday ensures that you can get some new information often.Listen toThe First 40 Miles here.
Scientists are discovering that we are losing more ice from the Polar Ice Caps than they previously thought based off satellite images and recent findings. They have also discovered ten new species including a fanged frog that gives birth to tadpoles, and the White Spotted Puffer fish, who makes a symmetrical design in the sand on the ocean floor. Find out more from SciShow.
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ADVENTURES ON PLANET FRAILEJON
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Adventures on Planet Frailejon. http://t.co/XKfObKxRYY pic.twitter.com/tl3enMU9uH
— While Out Riding (@whileoutriding) March 21, 2015
CATCH A RIDE ON THE DEVIL’S RIVER – Outdoors Magazine shares the adventure from The Noble Lab and the Jamestown Revival for some kayaking, fishing and camping.
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Introductory Reviews for the Kestrel Knives Ultralighter, Eddie Bauer Men’s Quantum T, and the Survive Outdoors Longer Pocket Survival Pak Plus.
Kestrel Knives Ultralighter
A knife intended to be used for general cutting tasks on a day to day basis while being light enough that you won’t feel the extra weight.
This Knife is small and light! The thinness of the blade provides efficient slicing on most cutting tasks. Filleting fish, cutting fruit, opening packages, cutting cordage, breaking down boxes, and preparing kindling, were some of the tasks that I found this little knife to be great at performing. Carrying the knife felt effortless. I own ink pens that weigh more than 21 grams, which makes this an easy knife to take with me on any hike. It is impressing to see a straight forward design coming from a company that makes their products in the U.S.A. offering them with high-quality materials. The sheath that came with the Ultralighter is made of Kydex. It is minimal in design, and it weighed 1 gram on my scale. There are holes in the sheath that I can use to clip it to my bag, or attach it with some cordage very easily. Although carrying the Ultralighter in my pocket was also easy, as it is so thin, light, and flat that it doesn’t use much of my pocket space. There are multiple options available when ordering this knife from Kestrel. Skeletonized handle, cord wrapped handle with variations in wrap pattern. You can order the Ultralighter with S35VN or AEB-L steels, which are both regarded as being better cutlery grade materials. Kestrel also has other models offered in Titanium that are just as light, but I will save that for a more in-depth review. I do recommend this knife, especially if you are looking for a knife that will perform any cutting tasks that you will need it to while hiking, and at 21 grams you aren’t loading your base pack weight up much at all.
Eddie Bauer Men’s Quantum T-Shirt
A light T-Shirt with vents that open during high heat activity and close when you cool down.
I was skeptical when I first learned how this shirt is intended to work. There are small slits laser cut into the shirt which according to Eddie Bauer are biometrically mapped to provide ventilation where it is most needed for the male body. The slits in the shirt open as you begin to work up a sweat, letting air flow into the shirt, thus aiding in cooling you down. I wore the shirt while doing work outside. I worked out wearing the shirt. Both activities caused me to sweat quite a lot. The vents worked as Eddie Bauer stated. They opened up as soon as I was beginning to perspire. After finishing my activities once I began to cool down, the vents did close. I did feel cool (temperature wise) while wearing the Quantum T-Shirt. I don’t know if that could be attributed to the vents in the shirt or the nicely open weave of the “FreeDry” material that Eddie Bauer uses. I found that the shirt was more comfortable to wear during aerobic activity. The vents while open did not bother me, but when I wore the shirt while inactive the edges of the vents felt a little itchy on my back. The seams are flat locked and the sleeves are a raglan style which I have always preferred. This design is especially nice while wearing a pack since there isn’t a seam on the shoulder or underarm. As for the odor control, the shirt did hold a smell after wearing it for a full 48 hours. I weighed the shirt on my scale and it weighed 3.7 ounces (men’s XL). I like the overall look and fit of the shirt. It is slightly loose fitting but not baggy. The shirt is available in two colors, black and “Peak Blue”. Both are two-toned with gray stitching and gray side panels. Compare it to the Exofficio Men’s So Cool T (4.2 ounces) or the Rab MeCo T (4 ounces Large) which have similar looks and intended use, you will find the Eddie Bauer Men’s Quantum T is lighter (3.7 ounces XL). I think the Quantum T-Shirt is worth trying out to see if it works for you.
Survive Outdoors Longer Pocket Survival Pak Plus
Designed by Doug Ritter and manufactured by Adventure Medical Kits, this pocket sized kit is designed to have all the necessities of most emergency situations that you could have to use it for.
I don’t usually look for pre-made survival kits. I have always used them in the past as a working foundation toward piecing my own kit together that fit my individual needs. I think that a survival kit is a necessity for anyone. I believe that anyone can benefit from being prepared with tools that can aid you through an emergency situation, provided that you also have the knowledge to use those tools. I have a well-stocked emergency medical kit in both of my vehicles. I teach my sons to take a personal sized first aid kit with them, even if it is just to go to the park or a bike ride. I have ended up using my first aid kit more on other people than I have on myself. The Pocket Survival Pak Plus covers enough necessities for emergencies that you may be able to shave some items down in order to reduce the overall weight. Maybe adding some first-aid items would be good since the idea with a kit like this is to have it on your person or readily available in case of emergency. The list of contents is as follows.
I think this kit is a great place to start for someone that hasn’t had experience with making their own survival kit, and for the price it should be affordable for most people. I always recommend obtaining the the skills needed to use your personal survival kit. Knowledge is the most powerful item which you can survive with, but having a few tools to aid that process can be a force multiplier in a dire situation.
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A versatile headlamp with an innovative design that fulfills your needs without adding significant weight to your pack.
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Preppers, Primitive Skills, the Military, and Hunters are all groups of people that have learned to thrive outdoors in their own way. Backpackers can take lessons from these other groups to make them more successful.
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News this week: Get a look inside the 2015 Everest Climbing Season, Have Some Tea After Completing the Mt. Huashan Trail, Get to Know Author Frederick H. Swanson, and Much More!
If you’d like to submit a link to a timely (fresh) story for us to consider including in our next installment, please send it along to submissions@backpackinglight.com with the subject line “BPL NEWS DIGEST”.
Alan Arnette who has been on the Everest scene for years recounts his 2015 season on Mt. Everest. Starting from the beginning of the season with the expectations of what this year’s climb would look like. He speaks of new routes, obstacles, and mountain life on top of the highest place in the world. Leading into, of course, the avalanche that was triggered by the earthquake near Katmandu. His account is detailed and shares the perspective that he has gained from this year’s tragic events.
Mount Huashan is 7,070 feet high at it’s tallest peak. There are five peaks on this mountain which is located in the Shaanxi province of China. A gondola ride, a hike, and then a walk along the side of the mountain (literally) will lead to a temple that is said to be one of the hardest temples to reach on Earth. The mountain trail has steps that are carved into the rock and there is a boardwalk for part of the journey with safety cables above for you to clip a rented harness onto. If you reach the West Peak of Mount Huashan you enjoy some tea in the Cui Yun Palace.
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NEW SHUTTLE PLANNED FOR POPULAR NORTH BEND WASHINGTON TRAILS – A new shuttle service is in the works with the aim to reduce traffic congestion along the roads for some of the most popular trails in Washington including Mt. Si.
MORE REASONS TO KEEP AMERICA’S PUBLIC LAND OWNED BY THE PUBLIC – Take another look at the argument for keeping public lands federally owned.
FOCUSSING ON HABITATS TO PROTECT MIGRATORY BIRDS – Scientists are studying bird habits to gain insight into better ways to protecting them.
WiIl Gadd and Gavin McClurg have successfully paraglided 385 miles along the spine of the Canadian Rockies. They Started at McBride Peak and ended at the United States border in Montana. They called their journey the “X-Rockies” paying homage to the Red Bull X-Alps paragliding race. Paragliding over the Canadian Rockies is a risk as most of the route is isolated with a lot of wildlife along the way and few places to land safely.
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One of the most ambitious trips ever: 385 miles down the spine of the Canadian Rockies: http://t.co/QHm6m9lX5V pic.twitter.com/ql1t2TRY7G
— Outside Magazine (@outsidemagazine) May 9, 2015
Elise Schmelzer is a twenty-one-year-old woman and a student from the University of Missouri. She has decided that she is going to hike through South America alone. She shares some of her desires and inspirations that have her seeking an adventure with the hope that it will send a message to other women.
HIKE THE CHEROKEE TRAILS – Follow the footsteps of Appalachia’s first people.
Paddling in Patagonia courtesy of Sidetracked Magazine.
MT. WASHINGTON WINTER ASCENT – Watch what it takes to scale Mt. Washington in the winter. IMPORTANT: If you don’t see the video immediately below, or see a “Sorry…” message in the video player, just click this link to refresh the page, and you’ll be good.
The rugged lands of Bosnia. IMPORTANT: If you don’t see the photo immediately below, just click this link to refresh the page, and you’ll be good.
Two barriers to camping are 1) available information about “good” camping spots, and 2) the gear and equipment to actually camp. Similar to how you might find a restaurant or a hotel, new sites are being created to help you find reviews and information about campsite. Complete with pictures these sites even let you check campsite availability and make reservations online. In the same vein, other sites allow people to rent outdoor gear often at low costs.
In order to teach the skills that people need to survive and thrive outdoors in an effort to get more people out on adventurers, ex-Royal Air Force Pilot Matt Prior has launched Matt Prior’s Adventure Academy. He promises to turn any participant into a competent adventure but also promises his academy won’t be a walk in the park and says “If you need a hot shower and WiFi each day this is not the course for you.” In addition to the field training, Prior’s courses will also cover the “show-stoppers” things like logistics and finances that often prevent an idea from getting off the ground.
WHAT’S NEXT? – Alastair Humphreys shares the best way to answer this question when asked after completing a big adventure.
NEPAL EARTHQUAKE SHAKES UP CHARITY EXPEDITION PLANS – Dooley International & Six Summits Challenge have decided to cancel their respective charity expeditions in light of the tragedy.
Most everyone’s list of items taken on a backpacking trip is different and subject to change depending on the trip you plan to take. Dave Collins gives his opinions on 7 must own backpacking gear items. His list consists of the following: the Sawyer Mini water filter, Petzl E+Lite Headlamp, JetBoil MiniMo, Therm-A-Rest NeoAir, Sawyer Permethrin Insect Repellent, Ultralight & Watertight .5 Medical Kit, and the Grand Trunk Nano 7 Hammock.
The new product called the Mini Q organizes your keys and has a 2.53-inch knife blade built in. It holds four keys and has a pocket clip to keep your keys from being tossed around into your pocket. There are three versions available with different blade shapes and handle materials including brass which is the heaviest version weighing 4.16 oz and costing $54. Titanium which weighs 2.7 oz goes for $68.The aluminum version is the lightest and least expensive at 1.7 oz and costs $39. The blades are made from stainless steel and are available as a drop-point blade with bottle opener at the base of the blade, a standard drop-point blade, and the “Anteater Utility” blade which essentially looks like a bottle opener with a sharpened belly and flat head screwdriver at the tip.
JOHN MUIR TRAIL GEAR LIST – This video shows one man’s gear list for the John Muir Trail.
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Frederick H. Swanson is an environmental historian and author. He moved from the Midwest to the Pacific Northwest over fifty years ago. This is where his love for the outdoors began. He spent twenty-five years working as a publications designer and editor. For eleven of those years, he resided in Montana, where he decided to write full-time. His most current book is titled “Where Roads Will Never Reach: Wilderness and Its Visionaries in the Northern Rockies”. The book touches on the history of wildland preservation in the Northern Rockies, spans several decades even before Congress had passed the Wilderness Act, and highlights the importance of citizens working in the 1950s-60s to protect our wildlands. Swanson will be performing readings from his book in several cities in Montana through the month of May.
Fauja Singh is 104 years old and still enjoys running. This man started his running career when he was 89 years old. His competitive running stopped two years ago when he turned 102, but he still enjoys running daily. He has completed nine marathons including the London Marathon. Fauja said that he began running as a means to cope with the loss of his wife and son because it forces his mind to focus on what it takes to run. For more information look at the video .
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POLAR EXPLORER BEN SAUNDERS LAUNCHES MAGAZINE – Avaunt Magazine will cover fashion, outdoor gear, and luxury lifestyle products.
50 MOST ADVENTUROUS MEN – Men’s Journal publishes this list which includes Erik Weihenmeyer who has climbed Everest and kayaked the Grand Canyon withouth the aid of sight.
The Pacific Crest Trail has been increasing in hiker traffic. With increases of website traffic, registrations, and information requests also increasing this year. This video points to recent media attention with movies like “Wild” possibly bringing more new hikers from all around seeking the adventure and views that they have seen on the big screen.
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Watch Matt Burt and friends mountain bike around the white rim trail outside Moab Utah.
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“Those who have the humility of a child may find again the key to … kinship with all life.” -J Allen Boone pic.twitter.com/4tdPlMLSXX
— Wilderness Society (@Wilderness) May 9, 2015
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“Not to have known…either the mountain or the desert is not to have known one’s self.” -Joseph Wood Krutch pic.twitter.com/5ONbzMUMET — Wilderness Society (@Wilderness) May 11, 2015
Introductory Reviews for the Fenix HL23 Headlamp, MSR Windboiler Stove, Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Poles.
Fenix HL23 Headlamp
The Fenix HL23 weighs 0.6 ounces more than the last Fenix headlamp I owned. Improvements have been made to the power button of the device. I really like the button much better than my older HL21 model.
I used the older HL21 extensively for work in weather as cold as -20F. The only problem I ever had with it was the power button. Eventually, it just stopped working. I had to press it in as hard as I could to get it to power on and then cycling through brightness levels proved to be very difficult. I did notice that the HL23 states that the warranty is “24 months free repair, and limited lifetime warranty”. The older model HL21 had a “limited lifetime warranty”. I feel indifferent to this since the HL21 lasted two years and I could send it in, or I could pay a relatively low cost for a newer model with a better power button and brighter output.
The power button on the HL23, however, is very easy to turn on and has a noticeable click, so it feels much more promising for longevity. Another improvement is the way you select the brightness level. I found that selecting the output was more intuitive than the HL21. This is partly because there is no beacon or S.O.S mode on the new HL23. To power the headlamp, on depress and hold the button for one second. It starts out set to the highest output. To cycle through lighting levels simply click the button.
The aluminum housing is a feature that I could do without. More weight might need to be shaved from the headband itself to compensate for the extra weight of the aluminum. On the positive side, the headlamp should be more durable, especially in very cold weather.
If I could design this headlamp I would give it the shape of the older HL21, with the power button of the newer HL23 and add the diffuser. The older style was easier to adjust up or down the lights angle with gloves on.
A brightness increase of Lumen output is a nice improvement. The color of the light is a more natural tone as well, which should provide better depth perception. I found the lack of a diffuser to be a detractor to the headlamp. The good news is that the diffuser from the HL21 is removable and I was able to fix it onto the HL23. It stays attached well and was a very minimal addition of weight (3 grams on my scale).
Summing it up, I would recommend this headlamp even with the 0.6-ounce weight gain. I believe the durability will be better, and I see improvements in brightness, light color, and function. I think that the price for this headlamp is fair for the overall package. I have spent twice as much on older headlamps in the past that didn’t have half the brightness of this one. I was able to find this headlamp on Amazon for $35.00 USD. Click the link provided below if you are interested.
MSR Windboiler Stove
This stove has taken tips from some of the best stoves on the market and improved them. In the past, wind and extremely cold weather have been the most regular hindrances to my outdoor cooking. The first time I let a friend use my JetBoil Flash in high wind, I looked over to see if the water was boiling, only to see that he was not attending the stove and my cozy was melting. The water in my pot was also not boiling. The radiant burner on the MSR Windboiler eliminates this worry and provides a very even heating surface. There are accessories available to use with this system which adds to the convenience of choosing to purchase this stove, because you don’t have to wait and wonder if you will eventually be able to get a french press attachment or a hanging kit. The cozy is thicker than the one that comes with the JetBoil Sol Titanium Stove, and it insulates for longer. The MSRP is $129.99 and the stove is available from many retailers. The link I found on Amazon includes the coffee press as a complementary addition for $129.99 total price. Click the link below for more details.
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Poles
These hiking poles weigh nine ounces for the pair. They are very easy to fold and unfold. You can put them away so fast if for some reason you didn’t want to use them. I do not always use poles when I am hiking, but they have saved me from a fall on multiple occasions. Black Diamond has made these so light and easy to use that I would not hesitate in taking them even on short day hikes. Compare this model to the older Black Diamond Ultra Distance trekking poles and you will see that they have shaved 0.9 ounces from the paired weight. This is what I like to see in technology, the progress that saves you effort and energy. Pricing on these poles ranges from $129.99-$159.99 depending on where you look. Black Diamond’s MSRP is $159.99.
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