Thanks for this roundup!
FWIW, I’ll add my endorsements to several picks:
MyTrail Co UL 35 Backpack
Just bought one to replace my (too small) GG day pack. I also loved an old GoLite day pack until it wore out, and hoped this new pack might rekindle some of that feeling. So far, I’m 90% in love with the UL 35, which might improve a few points after trimming unneeded doodads. Might work for a UL weekend backpack, too.
Montane FeatherLite Trail Jacket
My ~15-year-old Montane windshirt has been in my backpack or daypack for thousands of miles, and still lives in my daypack. The Patagonia Houdini is my new favorite backpacking windshirt – very similar design and weight, but a little more rain resistant. Unfortunately, Patagonia seems to change the Houdini formula every couple of years, so it’s hard to recommend based on past experience.
Patagonia Men’s Capilene Lightweight Crew
I’ve worn the equivalent Capilene 1 Silkweight Crew for several years as a base layer. Tough, light, very quick drying, and the long sleeves reduce sun exposure without needing sunscreen – but watch out for neckburn! Plus, it doesn’t itch like wool does for me. So far, the stank factor is close to zero.
1.25L PET Rocket Bottle
As Roger mentions, being American means I use the slightly lighter per volume but just as tough 1.5 liter Smart Water bottle. Sometimes I carry two or three if pack volume isn’t an issue; otherwise I add the Platypus 2.0 liter bottle if needed. Virtually every PCT or CDT hiker I’ve followed online carries Smart Water bottles.
Katadyn BeFree Collapsible Water Filter Bottle (0.6 L)
I’m already well known as a fan of this filter, even with the small bottle. Fast, light, and virtually idiot-proof, I use it as a filter system, not a water storage system.
Ursack Major
I’ve carried the lighter Ursack Minor in bear-free locations for many years – because mini-bears (aka raccoons), skunks, ground squirrels, and other critters still want your food. It weighs just a little more than a lightweight food hanging system – and you don’t have to hang it!
Garmin inReach Mini
I’m still using a roughly 4-year-old inReach SE, and when the time comes, I’ll probably replace it with the Mini and reluctantly drag a smartphone into the wilderness. RJ said it best: “For most of you, this device exists so you can maintain a good relationship with your loved ones, and keep them at ease. Don’t underestimate the positive value of that.”
QALO Strata Arrow Silicone Ring
I checked out the QALO, but wound up buying the similar Groove ring instead. On a raft trip, I came within millimeters of losing my wedding ring in the river. Since then I’ve almost never worn it on overnight trips, and that feels odd for many reasons. Now I can wear a silicone ring, and all feels right again.
— Rex
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