Thru-Hiker in the making: November 2009

My favorite UL gear

ZPacks.com Z1
This frameless suspect is exactly what I look for in a frameless pack. It is a simple rucksack with two side pockets, one rear billowing pocket, and straps. No bells, whistles, or doodads. Bonus points for other hikers confusing me for a so-called "dayhiker," or worse, a "fastpacker."

Tarptent DoubleRainbow
This 40 ounce shelter is fantastic for two persons, and it is my go-to shelter when I'm with another person and there is no snow on the ground. There's everything to like: vertical walls, low weight, usable vestibules and massive usable space. Even the venting is decent. One caveat: I almost need to carry my Vapor Trail if this tarptent goes along.

Integral Designs eVENT Shortie Gaiters
If BACKPACKER magazine were going to give awards for simple gear instead of over-worked gear, these gaiters would in an Editor's Choice Gold Award. They are the right height, weigh almost nothing and have a smartly-placed instep patch to prevent abrasion while not skimping on breathability. As their website says, perfection comes not when there is no longer anything to add, but when there is nothing more to take away.

Granite Gear Vapor Trail
I wouldn't call the VT ultralight, per se, but it carries weights under 30 lbs exceptionally well. The secret is the exceptionally padded hipbelt and backpanel, coupled with the polyethylene frame. The pack is bellowed at the bottom to accommodate a winter-weight sleep system, and the exterior straps allow you to attach your sleeping pads and tents. If only they would cut down on the strap lengths so you don't have to do it yourself.

Patagonia R1 Hoody
The best base/midlayer when the temps are south of 40F. Here's what you get: an integrated, balaclava-type hood that holds tight to your neck, long arms with thumb loops to cover gaps, a deep neck zip for venting, an off-set zipper so you don't freeze your chin on the pull, and a long bottom hem to tuck in. And the fabric: it is Patagonia's Regulator Fabric (made of Polartec fleece), which has a gridded interior to facilitate moisture transfer and ventilation.

Thru-Hiker in the making

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Video: Parcour de Wild 2009

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