David Chenault
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Planning Your First Backpacking Trip Out West
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.
Six Packraft Loops in the Bob Marshall Wilderness
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.
Hiking Clothing Guide: An Overview of Ultralight Layering Systems
Keys to layering clothing for outdoor activity - keep it simple, light, and functional. This hiking clothing guide shows you how.
Ultralight Hunting: Towards a Coherent Definition
Much like the ultralight backpacking movement, ultralight hunting is beginning to grow in popularity due to gear innovation as hunters look for a more holistic hunting experience. As new gear begins to push the envelope, we turn our discussion to a what is the definition of 'ultralight hunting'?
Rab Vapour-rise Lite Alpine Jacket review
The Rab Vapour-rise Light Alpine is an extremely well designed windshirt, but when compared with other similar weighted windshirts the value is tough to see. However when compared with other soft shells it quickly becomes irreplaceable.
Negotiating the Permit System: Six Western US National Parks
Our National Parks are awe-inspiring places of beauty. Often the backcountry permitting can be a challenge. Don't let that stop you. Here are some tips to face the process with ease.
MYOG: Backpack fabrics, features, and dimensions
Making your own gear is a frustrating and expensive yet very rewarding process. Making your own pack allows you to tailor it to your needs and is a fantastic way to learn about gear.
Technical Canyoneering for the Ultralight Backpacker
Canyoneering is challenging as it offers an opportunity to tackle a variety of terrain using new gear. Combining canyoneering with backpacking is a recipe for a legendary trip.
Bikepacking at the Cusp
Nice gear is an added bonus, but don't get distracted by the research or gear hunting - the main goal is to get outside often!
Training for Backpacking
Training for backpacking (a fun activity) need not be complicated or painful. Get in a routine and make each session count. Your long trips will thank you.
Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody review
For their first ever attempt, Black diamond created a versatile, durable, and waterproof windshirt that raises the bar for ultralight windshirts.
The Grocery Sack Grows Up: A Genealogy of the Modern Ultralight Backpack
From humble beginnings to the sophisticated and lightweight packs, the ultralight backpack is a tale filled with adaptation and pushing the balance of weight and features.
Concerning the Wilderness Serape
Despite the added weight, a Serape is a versatile piece of backpacking gear that can help manage the sudden weather changes.
Lil’ Bugout Shelter Review
An uncommon design transforms the Lil' Bugout into a weather fortress. And it has plenty of space to keep you cozy as you weather the storms.
Backpackable Wood Stoves: Theory and Ultralight Application
Backpackable wood stoves will add weight to your pack, but they have many benefits, such as, peace of mind, warmth, and the ability to dry wet gear.
MYOG: A flexible frame for ultralight backpacks
Ultralight packs are great for your back, but for strapping outdoor gear onto your pack a frame is nice. Lightweight frames are hard to come by. The solution: make your own.
Paradox Packs Evolution pack system review
While it may be on the heavy side of ultralight, Paradox has worked hard to make each ounce count succeeding in creating a pack that excels at carrying extremely heavy loads.
MYOG: Contoured Side Panels for Improved Load Carry in Frameless Packs
Overpacking is a major issue with frameless packs. Implementing side panels can help distribute your load in a more effective way.
Rab Xenon and Patagonia UL Down Hoody: Comparison and Long-Term Review
New and evolving technologies necessitate a reexamination of the conventional wisdom of down versus synthetic fill insulation.
Midlayer Technology: Patagonia Capilene 4 v. Mountain Hardwear Desna Hoody
This winter, increase the versatility of your other layers by adding a midlayer. An overview of two notable options, and discussion of current fabric tech.
