Ryan Jordan
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Jetboil Joule Review – Part 1, Overview
The Jetboil Joule is a high-volume cooking system that performs very well in ambient conditions; however more testing in cold conditions is needed to asses its overall performance.
Unseen Africa: Francis Tapon’s Four Year Journey Circumnavigating Africa
Taking an ultralight mindset to Africa requires an adjustment, but the lessons learned and the experiences had in Africa are rarely matched.
Rambling the High Sierra
There are so many ways to navigate through the Sierras - why not try them all?
Mountain Laurel Designs eVENT Soul Bivy Review
While not commonly found in most hiker's packs, the lightweight and superior construction of this bivy offers good value for a bivy that occupies a narrow market niche occupied by very few products.
Gränsfors-Bruks Mini Hatchet Review
While not a part of the traditional lightweight backpacker's gear list, a hatchet is a great piece of gear that can bring a unique perspective to fire building and shelter making.
Stephenson 2C Tent Review – Part 2
A performance review of the Stephenson 2C - the smallest and lightest "climber's" version from the ultralight line of tents from the Stephenson family of New Hampshire.
Learning to Packraft: Ten First Steps for Backcountry Travelers
This article identifies the first steps on a path to packrafting competence for those specifically interested in actually carrying their raft on their back into remote environments!
Overboots as Mukluks: Basecamp Footwear for Ski Mountaineers
Hardshell double boots, common amongst ski mountaineers using modern alpine touring or telemark equipment, make for miserable discomfort during extended stays in camp. Adding a pair of thin neoprene overboots at less than a pound allows one to kick off the plastics and enjoy basecamp slippers while keeping feet warm and dry in the coldest weather.
AT Nordic Ski Systems: Discovering the Best of Backcountry Nordic and Alpine Touring Systems Through Hybridization
Combining the best of both worlds, AT Nordic ski systems give you comfort, stability, and lightweight as you explore the backcountry.
Winter Cabineering – Part 2
Winter Cabineering not only makes your sleep more enjoyable, but you can save pack weight as well. It's a creative and unique way to winter camp.
Winter Cabineering – Part 1: Video Essay
Winter Cabineering is a great way to spend time outdoors and still be warm. Don't worry, the cabins should be plenty rustic so you can still get away from it all.
Lightweight Stove Systems for Group Cooking Part 3: Performance of Inverted Canister and White Gas Stoves For Boiling Water and Melting Snow at Subzero (F) Temperatures
A series of tests exploring the winter performance of inverted canister and integrated canister stove systems for large water volumes and snow melting.
Learn to Packraft! Episode 2: Stillwater Basics
Episode 2 of "Learn to Packraft!" provides an overview of stillwater packrafting gear and techniques.
Lightweight Stove Systems for Group Cooking Part 2: Exploring the Effects of Cold Temperatures, Canister Inversion, Snow Melting, and Heat Exchanger Systems
A series of tests exploring the winter performance of inverted canister and integrated canister stove systems for large water volumes and snow melting.
Simplifying Expedition Food With Single Serving Sized Packages
Single serving packages can simplify shopping, packaging, and preparation of meals.
Lightweight Stove Systems for Group Cooking Part 1: Basic Framework for Selecting A Cooking Pot and Predicting Fuel Needs
A series of tests exploring the winter performance of inverted canister and integrated canister stove systems for large water volumes and snow melting.
Techniques for River Corridor Camping
Tarp camping is tricky enough. Couple that with unstable ground and strong winds and that perfect campsite can quickly become a nightmare. Learn all the tricks to stay dry and happy.
Techniques for Talus
Talus can be tricky but with a few tips and a new approach you'll be all set for some Talus Dancing. And boy what fun it is!
Altra Lone Peak 1.5 Trail Shoe Review
The quest for the perfect lightweight backpacking shoe continues. Don't hold your breath. While these shoes are great for most hikes they are less than ideal for seriously demanding trips.
Learn to Packraft! Episode 1: An Introduction to Packrafting
Episode 1 of "Learn to Packraft!" introduces you to the wonderful sport of packrafting!