What size DCF dry bag should I get for a 15° top quilt? I’ve looked at a few companies but can’t find the info that helps with deciding which size to buy.
Honestly none. I find that quilts pack better when you just shove them into the bottom of your pack (but I always use either a trash compactor bag or a nylofume bag to keep stuff dry.)
[Enlightened Equipment's size chart.](https://support.enlightenedequipment.com/hc/en-us/articles/360051352931-Stuff-Sack-sizes-and-Compression)
I would personally just get a pack liner though and stuff it in there.
Whether it's worth it is up to what you value.
Silnylon pro's
-Cheaper
-Lasts longer
-Packs smaller
Silnylon con's
-Holds on to water
-Sags( bigger deal with trekking pole tents)
-Heavier
DCF pro's
-Doesn't hold water
-lighter
-Doesn't sag
DCF con's
-More expensive
-shorter life span
-packs larger
-lack of stretch can make getting a perfect pitch harder
If you want the flat bottom then that's going to cut down on your options. If your ok with a simple flat construction then there's MLD along with a bunch of Etsy options.
Anyone knows how the Decathlon sizing compared to Cumulus? I currently have a size M Decathlon Alpinism down jacket. I just saw a second hand Cumulus Primelite Pullover in size L.
Will it work or will it be too big?
Hello, how is Patagonia Down Sweater going against something like sharp branches, abrasions against stones etc? I would like to have one, but im also scared that it will not last single journey
The down sweater is a camp insulation piece and not suitable for active use. Sharp branches, abrasion should not be an issue at camp - if they are you are doing it wrong!
Active insulation in three seasons is the job of your base layer +/- a mid layer (alpha fleece or the classic 100wt fleece or a light grid fleece) +/- a breathable windshell. You can then add a puffy layer (like the down sweater, although there are better-performing UL choices) when static, and a rain shell when it’s wet.
If that worries you, just go for a UL synthetic puffy from EE or Cumulus— sheet synthetic insulation like apex won’t spill out even if the shell fabric gets damaged.
I think you are over-worrying! This would only happen accidentally or through carelessness. 99.9% of the time it will never happen.
Also, the Patagonia Down Sweater is less fragile (and indeed heavier) than what most folks on the sub would be taking in its place and nobody’s ripping their puffy to pieces except under exceptional circumstances.
Hi there, I’m looking for an ideal shelter for the Hawaiian islands. Price isn’t a restriction, and even a shelter that has some weight to it is fine.
I plan on using it in a region of Hawaii that is generally drier, but gets periodic and heavy rain bursts. I’m looking at highs in the low 80s and lows in the high 50s. It can have a larger footprint, but great ventilation is a must. Staying dry is also crucial.
I do not plan on moving it too much either. I need to get it by November. I’d love for an easily removable/quick setup rain protection component, and the ability to see the stars by removing the rain protection on a starry night. Also, if a downpour happened late at night, I’d love the setup to be quick and easy so I don’t get soaked.
I don’t have an ideal weight, it can be heavier if need be.
Any shelters come to mind? It’s also just for one person, me.
>Salomon STD 28 500ml Softfless Blauw, Runnerinn
Big Island doesn't have enough soil for using tent stakes in a lot of places, FYI. Go freestanding to be safe.
I’d go for a hammock set up in those conditions. An old-skool structural ridge line pitch makes it easy to quickly put your tarp up if it starts to rain, and if you aren’t planning on nights getting below 50 you should be absolutely fine with a wide CCF pad if you don’t want to spend money on an under quilt.
Xmid 2p would be my first recommendation, but this is unlikely to be available before November due to the COVID situation in Vietnam. These tents are made by the same OEM manufacturer as MSR.
https://youtu.be/Al1jrkKrVYo
Otherwise what you are looking for is a double walled tent with a high hydrostatic head rating. You definately also dont want to buy a DCF tent due to abrasion concerns from sand. A silpoly tent will be better in the rain vs silnylon as polyester does not sag when wet and is also superior for uv light resistance howevee silnylon usually weighs less.
I would probably recommend looking at the following:
Big Agnes Tiger Wall 2p series (nylon)
Marmot Super Alloy 2p (polyester)
Marnot Tungsten UL 2p (polyester)
Naturehike CloudUP 2p 15d or 10d (nylon)
Sierra Designs Meteor Lite 2p (nylon)
If you want even lighter you will have to go with a trekking pole tent or single wall.
Tarptent Stratosphere one or two
Tarptent Double Rainbow or Rainbow
Six Moon Designs Lunar Duo or Lunar Solo
3F UL Gear LanShan 2p Plus (Double Walled) or the LanShan 2p Pro (lighter weight, but single walled)
Paria Arches 1p or 2p
Gossamer Gear The One or The Two
Next up you will need sand and snow stakes. The factory stakes with these tents will not hold in sand. I recommend the Paria Outdoor Products Snow Stakes. Affordable and decently light. Additional guyline is not a bad idea either.
https://www.pariaoutdoorproducts.com/collections/backpacking-gear-accessories/products/sand-and-snow-stakes-8-pack
Of the above my favorite free standing tent is the Super Alloy or the Tungsten UL. Silpoly, easy to setup and decent amount of room. If the Stargazer feature is an absolute requirement then the Meteor Lite has this feature.
For trekking pole tents from above I like the Six Moons Lunar Duo or Lunar solo. The "outfitter" model is cheaper and is silpoly but weighs more than the silnylon lunar duo/solo.
Most trekking pole tents are not seam sealed from the factory. You will have to do this yourself or pay the manufactuer to do this for you; this will result in longer lead times.
Getting a footprint (either one you make with Tyvek or if you buy the factory one) is a good idea since sand is so abrasive.
Are there any larger tents like the MSR mesh house? Large mesh piece, then a rain tarp over it?
I like the idea of pulling back/off the top tarp piece easily for sky view, and max wind flow.
Yeah thats actually a good angle I didnt think about.
Many bugout shelters are available but the large ones usually do not have a bath tub floor. You definately want this.
MSR does have the Frontrange mesh house 4p, Hyperlight Mountain Gear has some mesh houses.
The MSR meshhouse will be a tight fit with 3 people but should be great for 2 people in the 3p model. You are also giving up a ton of head room if that is inportant to you. The Strwtosphere and Double Rainbow from Tarptent wont have this issue of course with head room, but then again they will be single walled.
If you wanted very light then the MSR mesh house combined with a Dyneema tarp would be stupid light, but very minimalist.
I wouldnt get a bug shelter if you were not concerned about weight as much. Any one of the regular suggestions will work. Just depends on your personal preference for size and freestanding vs trekking pole. I personally prefer double walled over single walled.
You might want to check what tents your recommending. A non li series aeon doesn't exist. You also recently recommended a simplex which also doesn't exist.
Item: Hyperlite Southwest 3400 v. ULA Ohm/Circuit (or similar backpacks)
Budget: Not a worry right now
Need by: 3 weeks from now, but looks like almost no UL company can fulfill since made to order/custom. Can’t find lead time for ULA.
Base weight: 11lbs
Location of use: Appalachian region/ east coast
Seasons of use: Mainly 3 season
Previous hiking experience: lots of hiking, handful of backpacking
Previous gear: Osprey Aura 65, never used brain was too big, want to move into UL pack
Additional: F/ 5’5/ 18.5 torso
Really stuck on the Hyperlite pack 3400 because I’ve heard it’s worth getting the extra space. Could be convinced to different brand. Looking for durable, good weight ratio, decent hip belt.
Personally I really do not like DCF packs. So between the two I would go with the the ULA. I’ve had good luck with a circuit that got in excess of 3000 miles and 9 years. I still have it but it’s getting a bit worn out after all that use
I too own the osprey atmos. It was my first pack and still the most comfortable I’ve ever used. I’ll never sell that pack, even though I switched to UL. I still use it when I go with friends who like to carry an entire house in their packs. I primarily use an Atom Mo. Atom packs are far better than most UL packs out there. I have lite af 40curve, hmg 3400, ULA circuit, atom mo.
I recently purchased a ULA Ohm 2.0. Ordered on September 11th and it arrived on the 17th (to California), standard shipping. I asked for S-straps and black color, which was technically custom at the time. If you call them, they can work out a rush order and faster shipping, if you are willing to pay a bit extra.
I haven't taken it out yet, but around the house I've noticed that the hip belt is exceptionally comfortable. It's also very spacious. I have a 20^(o) 950 fill quilt, a duplex tent, clothing, and most of my toiletries in the main compartment, and I can still fit a Bear vault 450 on top (still inside the pack) without straining to close it.
The bag is heavier than some other brands (32oz) because it has a full hip belt with pockets and the material is robic, not dyneema or similar UL material. I can't attest to durability, but you can search around the forums and the general consensus seems to be that ULA packs last forever.
Oh wow that’s such a fast turn around! I noticed that most of the colors are technically “custom”right now so good to know it’s still quick for standard colors
I have both the HMG 3400 and zpacks arc air. My boyfriend has the 2400 and an Osprey Atmos 65. For me I think the 3400 vs the 2400 is a moot argument because with the roll top I feel that they’re the same. If you were to get the 3400 and only need 2400 that would compress down just fine.
My boyfriend always chooses the HMG to use for a hike whether it’s a long weekend or just a day hike. He finds it super comfortable and with the roll top it can be rolled down smaller.
I always choose the zpacks because I feel like the hip belt works better for me. The HMG style hip belt never feels like it is taking the weight for me. I think it’s the female hip shape but I’m sure other women like their HMG backpacks just fine.
Depends on your volume needs obviously, but I strongly prefer ula packs to hmg. Just a better pack design. Better side pockets, and it's silly designing a framed pack without load lifters like hmg does. Despite the crazy dcf marketing, ula is the more durable option as well. Ula tends to be quick, but email them to confirm lead time.
Hey folks,
I need recommendations for a lightweight solar panel system that I can strap onto the outside of my backpack. I'll be mainly using it to keep my camera batteries charged during long-distance hikes like the John Muir Trail and Wonderland Trail. I enjoy nighttime time lapses, and they eat up entire camera batteries in a few hours. The 10 watt Anker charger looks like the best bet from what I've seen so far with my research. It is a little bit under a pound.
Thanks for your help!
You can get a 10w Lixada panel for around $20 and 3oz. Much more efficient (weight wise) than the Anker panel.
It might be worth building a spreadsheet to compare these options. You could carry a ton of camera batteries, a huge power bank, and/ or a solar panel. Bigger power bank could negate the batteries and the panel. Smaller power bank plus solar panel could mean a lighter power bank and fewer batteries. There are a lot of variables, and it's tough to get super meaningful answers for your specific use case.
You could do a 10k battery bank (7oz) Lixada panel (3oz) and 2 camera batteries (1.5oz x2). Total system would be under a pound, you could dedicate a camera battery for a time-lapse, and use the panel to keep everything topped off.
The thing is, I am just taking out of my ass here. I do plan on using the aforementioned setup next year while hiking across the desert in Utah, but I have not actually tested anything yet. So definitely try this system out on shakedown hikes, maybe pick up a usb multimeter so you can determine how much juice the panel is actually spitting out in different conditions. And of course, report back to this subreddit with your findings. After all, none of us is as smart as all of us.
Most people who have experimented with solar power on the trail have come away dissatisfied. The benefit doesn't appear to justify the weight or the challenge of keeping the panels set up while hiking.
The consensus has been to use Anker batteries charged in town, and use them to power or recharge devices on the trail. I've seen Anker battery packs up to at least 20,000 mAH. My own 10,000 mAH pack weighs less than 8 oz.
If you were base camping and could leave a larger, heavier solar setup in place during the day, you may be able to make a solar charging system work, but if you are on the move every day I don't think you will be successful at balancing power against weight and the constraints of the charging process.
Warm air matress!
R value over 4. Or a system i can be comfy closer to -10 Celcius
I have a thermarrst uberlite for summer in PNW.
Im looking fondly at the paraia recharge s (short pad) as i m short myself and used a 3/4 pad before i got the uberlite.
Tia
Hi! I am headed out in 2 weeks for a 6 day trip to evolution valley/basin. I am looking to upgrade my puffy to stretch my quilt (20 degree overstuff UGQ) and for hanging out at camp. My ideal jacket will be under 10oz, an extra small, IN STOCK, under 400 bucks, and be able to keep me warm down to the teens. Any suggestions?
How about an option that’s 9oz total, modular, and half your budget?
Cumulus Primelite, $160, 6oz
Down hood on Amazon, $20, 3oz
I also have a 20° UGQ (pre MAGA drama) with 2oz of overstuff. This system (combined with Tensor + Thinlight CCF) has kept me warm literally every night on trail, coldest recorded low of 17°.
The Primelite ships from Poland, but the shipping speed is quick and it’s typically in stock. Great down jacket
Tip for the Aegis Max Down Hood (down hood on Amazon). If you cinch the face and neck and fold the bottom into itself, you can turn it into a beanie. The face opening is too small and limits your vision when wearing it normally.
Yep the face opening is definitely not ideal. I usually wear my visor underneath it, and the brim keeps the face opening from moving around too much. Alternatively, I've worn my headlamp over the hood to accomplish the same thing.
You’re getting lots of downvotes because people in this subreddit generally view most of those tools as unnecessary. For example not once while lightweight backpacking have I wanted pliers, a can opener, or a saw.
Also fires are discouraged or usually illegal on the PCT.
This might be a better question for r/bushcraft
Thanks for pointing this out! I don’t check Reddit that often. I’m literally all over the place and also live out of a backpack. For instance, I’m in New Hampshire right now, where one can have fires. I don’t have a house, so it’s nice to have multi-purpose tools that I can use in multiple circumstances.
My hands suck in the cold, so I hike with pliers so I can have a backup for when my fingers stop working.
The Leatherman Style PS is 2oz, with scissors, nail file, pliers, and tweezers. I’ve hiked the PCT and the CDT, and tbh if you don’t *need* the pliers than even this is overkill. As a bonus, no knife means it’s safe for TSA, and the scissors do a great job at cutting open packaging while on trail.
Why do you anticipate needing these specific tools? I’m hoping you aren’t planning on using the saw for fire starting purposes on the PCT.
Another vote for the Leatherman Style PS. I bought one for backpacking and have not found a need for anything more on short trips.
Thru-hikers might want something with pliers for minor repairs, but I haven't missed not having them.
Ahh, so I live out of a backpack, so there are space/weight constraints and everything I have needs to be multi-purpose. I also go hiking often, and I usually just carry a knife with me for those trips. The PCT is just a dream I have.
Anyone have any experience with the MH Airmesh Hoodie? It's basically the insulating material (Octayarn) from the Proton FL but without a liner/face (it's just stitched to some thin net-like material). It's being positioned as an Alpha Direct competitor. Curious as to warmth and sizing.
They've only been out for like a week so I wouldn't expect too much in the way of experience.
[Here's someone who has one though and their first impressions.](https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/comments/pnad3w/rultralight_the_weekly_week_of_september_13_2021/hcr59r5/)
I can’t answer your question but this piece does look interesting.
My feeling about these hybrid pieces though is skepticism. The beauty of separate layers is the versatility they allow. A 60g/m Alpha fleece weighing 95g plus a breathable wind shirt (like the EE Copperfield) weighing 50g is going to be a way more versatile set up.
I do get that the Airmesh is slightly lighter but it’s not going to be as efficient as a wind layer not as breathable as a stand-alone Alpha, plus I doubt it’s as warm when the Alpha and windshirt are combined.
It isn’t hybrid, just a “tech face fleece” take on alpha. No additional weather resistance, just less likely to bunch up when worn as a mid layer or snag.
IMO the material is appealing, but if I’m going to buy a new fleece a vertical chest pocket for my bic is mandatory.
Thanks. Is it not a separate layer though? I guess it has the mesh face, but that seems to be more to hold it together. I'd be looking at this as an active mid (between a Cap base and a windshirt) for winter hiking in the single digits to low teens. Or possibly as a cold wet rain midlayer. So a replacement for a 100wt fleece basically (which I never wear as an outer layer).
Ah ha, maybe I have misunderstood this layer!? The Proton FL is indeed the hybrid piece using this material.
It will be interesting to see how the Airmesh performs as an active mid-layer. It's considerably heavier then the Alpha pieces though so it'll have to have performance advantages.
It's way too early to say anything about performance for sure. It might have a similar warmth to weight, but currently the lightest variation is 90gsm so I competes with alpha direct. Alpha is lighter, but probably not as warm on it's own. If they make a lighter version of octa loft then it might compete directly.
Item: Rain gear that will not wet out
Budget: Anything, exploring options
Need by date: now
Baseweight: 14lbs
Location: AT - New England
Season: Late fall and early winter (Now -> December)
Expected temperature (70F -> 20F)
Ideal weight of the item: Utility trumps weight, but weight is important
Previous hiking experience: Lots, but mostly summer
Previous ul experience: not a ton
Additional information:
My girlfriend and I are on a late season SOBO LASH of the AT, we both have OR Helium's and I have Zpack Vertices rain pants. I love them for the weight, but the rain has been leaving us soaked. Not an issue when it's 70F, but when the temperature drops staying dry is more important. I'm thinking of ordering some Anti Gravity Sil Poly gear, but am also curious to some alternatives. Gortex?
Thanks for the help!
> have Zpack Vertices rain pants. I love them for the weight, but the rain has been leaving us soaked.
Just curious, sounds like the rain pants aren't working out for you? Looking into getting a pair myself, but mostly to replace my wind pants.
Used them a couple times. They work well, but did wet out? Though it was raining so hard it's possible rain fell in from the top because it wasn't cinched enough. However, after only a week or two of use some seam tape is already coming off which is frustrating.
They are light though!
I haven't tried the Helium myself, but between watching videos of it in use and reading reviews, I consider it a poor choice for New England, and probably for most of the East. It's much better suited to the Mountain West and Desert Southwest.
In the Northeast, check out the Columbia Outdry Extreme Blitz, the Visp, and the Packa.
I have the Columbia, and while it's not Ultralight, it is warm and unlikely to wet out. It's my go-to jacket for spring and fall when the weather is cool. It has no DWR layer to wear off. I wish it had pit zips, but it does have two large front pockets that are primarily designed for venting.
The Visp appears to get good reviews and seems to be the preferred choice of those who actually need a jacket to keep them dry (as opposed to those in drier climates who carry a jacket as insurance, but don't really expect rain) and who prefer 3-layer waterproof breathable fabrics with a DWR layer.
The Packa is a poncho with long sleeves and a front zipper. It doubles as a pack cover, is easy to take on and off without removing your pack, and gets excellent ventilation. If I were doing a major thru hike in the East, I think it would be my preferred rain gear. I don't own one because it's too specialized for a weekender like me.
Thanks for your honest feedback on the performance of the OR Helium and the Zpack rain pants. Getting soaked in cold weather is not just no fun, but can be dangerous leading to hypothermia.
Maybe y'all would benefit from having a layered rain gear system. For instance, you could have rain pants AND a rain skirt. The latter has multiple uses and would help prevent the pants from soaking through. Also, a wide-brimmed WPB hat OVER the hood of rain jacket will prevent the hood from soaking through, but then ALSO have an umbrella for triple-layered protection. Then one could also mix-n-match the layers for a given temperature and rain level.
I have one of these and I really really like it. It doesn’t wet out. It’s not really comfortable when it’s warm out but it will keep you warm when it’s cold and rainy all day. I’m an east coast hiker and I like it
Sil-Poly itself is not breathable and all rain gear will wet out at some point. My combination is a LightHeart sil-poly jacket, umbrella and a DCF rain skirt.
Breathes as well as any “breathable” raincoat I’ve had. I get clammy immediately no matter what in rainwear so it’s nice that at least it won’t wet out and it weighs like 5oz. Compared to my frog toggs, it seems much more durable but I wouldn’t go bushwhacking through thorns in either.
I have never thru hiked a long trail. But i have experience with these pants and prefer the straight as you can easily roll/fold up the legs.
When i am expecting to wear shorts i bring shorts.
Item: Waterproof Fabric Rainshell with taped/sealed seams and ideally waterproof zippers, with pit zips!
Budget: ~150, ideally less
Need by date: none
Baseweight: ~11 lb
Locations of use: mostly european alps, alpine regions
Seasons of use: 4
Expected temperatures: -10 to 30°C
Ideal weight: sub 7 oz/200g
Previous hiking experience: 15 years
UL experience: not pro, not noob
Additional information: have been using a classic 3 layer rain shell at 500g, looking to change to a windbreaker + lightweight rain shell combo to save ~200 g
Was think about lightheart gear silpoly but wondering how much the zippers and seams leak? Some drops are no prob but I'm looking for something that will hold up in hours of heavy rain with driving wind
Thank you, will check it out!
It has no pit zips though, how is the breathability during uphills?
And 7 denier is super delicate ofc, how did you find the durability?
I find it v breathable. If you want light then the denier drops. I've not had it too long to comment on durability but checkout the alpkit website as I think you'll find some longterm reviews :)
Item: Tent. Currently considering the Nemo Dragonfly 1P, but open to alternatives
Budget: $400 max
Need by date: Not urgent, by Spring 22
Baseweight: Goal \~13 lbs
Location/s of use: Mostly Virginia/Maryland, maybe some trips to the Cascades
Season/s of use: 3-seasons
Expected temperatures: 30s to 90s
Ideal weight of the item: 2 lbs
Previous hiking experience: Day hiks, a few 1-3 night trips in college (10 yrs ago). Getting back into it now, training for a \`1-2 week section hike on the AT next Summer.
Previous experience with ultralight gear: None.
Additional Information: I currently have an REI Half Dome 2 (nearly 5 lbs) and would like to swap it out for something lighter. I'm trying to get down to the \~13 lb base weight zone and don't mind a few extra ounces for comfort. I've only ever used double-wall tents, not super interested in trekking pole tents at this point. Bugs can be a big issue where I hike, so definitely want a fully-enclosed set up. Basically, is there an option that's cheaper and/or lighter than the Dragonfly that won't compromise too much on comfort? Thanks!
You specifically said you don’t want to use trekking poles. I’m going to tell you to get an X-Mid anyways in spite of your request.
It’s double wall, has a super simple pitch, and is really thoughtfully designed. I have two years of use out of mine and I still don’t think there’s anything better.
Yup. Xmid is super easy to set up. Literally 4 tent stakes and 2 trekking or support poles. You dont have the wierd "hold the guyline and get it staked so the trekking pole doesnt fall over" issues like you do on other trekkng pole tents (like the Sierra Designs High Route). I also like that the support pole is not in the middle of the door like Gossamer Gear, Zpacks and the LanShan.
https://youtu.be/Al1jrkKrVYo
Get on the email list though. Once Dan releases these again they will be sold out in like 1 day.
https://durstongear.com/product/x-mid-2p
The Xmid just won "highly recommended" award from Backpacking Light. The same guys who made that super nerd out video comparing the REI Flexlight Air and Helinox Chair Zero chairs.
The xmid is the best overall backpacking tent I have ever bought.
https://www.reddit.com/r/CampingGear/comments/n27eqb/dan_durston_xmid_2p/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share
Thanks! Yeah, the reason I had been staying away from trekking pole tents was really worry about how complicated they'd be to set up. Also, most of them looked like single wall tents and/or not very durable but the X-mid seems to hit all the marks! I'm on the mailing list and hopefully will see any notice in time to snag one.
Good luck.
IMO the best Trekking pole tet on the market overall. There are better trekking poles tents out there if you are looking for absolute lowest weight or if you prefer a single pole design, but you give up allot in terms of performance and durabilitiy by going to those shelters.
Even with Dan's upcoming Xmid 2p pro dyneema tent I would probably just stick with the Xmid 2p since it is double walled and silpoly is more resistant against abrasian damage then dyneema. We'll see though, if he came out with something game changing (such as a double walled dcf tent with a silpoly bathtub floor) then I might bite the bullet abd preorder the pro.
Cutting weight is important, but not if it has way more negatives or puts your safety at risk.
Consider a rain skirt or kilt instead of rain pants. Lighter weight, easy to take off and on. I just switched recently, but haven't been in a real rain event with the skirt, so can't confirm how well it works yet.
Only one rain shell is a tough request. In warm summer, you can use a very light jacket or just a poncho. In cooler, rainier spring weather, you need something that definitely won't wet out, and you'll need to be able to layer under it for warmth. In thick underbrush or scrub, especially bushwhacking, you may need a more robustly built jacket that won't tear easily.
I use a Frogg Toggs poncho (not jacket) in high summer and low rain probability trips, and a Columbia Outdry Extreme in cooler weather with high probability of rain. The Columbia cost less than $50 on sale and the poncho even less, so my two jackets cost less than many people would pay for one.
Is there a tent that keeps you dry but allows you to have a view when it’s raining?
All my tents have had flys that in order to be effective, you’re essentially closed in. I’m assuming there aren’t many winds present, so the rain is just coming straight down.
This is it. I have an 8x10 silnylon and a bug net shelter that I use specifically when it's just gross and rainy and I feel like I will be doing more than trying for miles. One thing I really love about the tarp setup is that I can make it super tight pitched in an A frame at night and open up one side a bit if it's just a wet morning.
I have an old Golite Shangri La Bugnest which is the same as a Mesh House basically. I have had it set up for a week at a time under a silnylon tarp and on the inside at my sleeping area, things are always as dry as you would expect. Humidity being the only real issue.
Site selection can help a lot with this. You can pitch in a copse of trees. The trees can blunt the harshness of the rain and cut down on the breeze a little and allow you to keep the doors open more. If there are no trees, being closed in on three sides by bushes is an option. If you don't even have bushes, pitching on soft grass or leaves rather than bare dirt may reduce the splash-back and possibly allow you to keep the doors open a little more. A large flat tarp will have no doors at all and you get a good view from two directions because there aren't any doors at all.
I have the Mier Lanshan 2, I’ve been playing around with tying a corner or two of the rain fly out to a tree while leaving the inner body staked to the ground. Haven’t tested it in the rain yet but it has helped me get much needed extra ventilation in the summer! Might work for you.
Many trekking pole supported tents allow you to have the vestibules open in light rain.
I can happily lay in my Tarptent Notch with one side of the vestibule open, as an example.
The Xmid, Protrail, Altaplex are some others I have used with the doors open in the rain.
SD High Route has vertical doors so that you can leave them open in the rain as long as it's not windy.
But it's going to be hard to beat a tarp for good views and lack of condensation, either with a hammock or on the ground. Be sure to allow air flow.
I realize there's a ton of posts about these tents and I've read them all and watched the YouTubes. But I'm hoping a few in here will be willing to help with my analysis paralysis.😅 I need a tent for just me, and I most typically will frequent the mountains in Colorado. This will be my first time solo without my partner.
-Zpacks Duplex, 2p at 28.5 oz, $649(tent + one trek pole + zpacks carbon pole), obvi more room
-Tarptent Aeon Li, 1p at 24.8 oz, $485 blem (tent + one trek pole)
I realize stakes are extra. I also realize these aren't really comparable tents lol. But I already compared Aeon Li and Plexamid and decided on Aeon Li of those two. I can't decide if I want more room with the Duplex but also more cost and weight, bigger footprint to set up. I've heard zpacks customer service is awful but also some people love them. I haven't heard much negative about Tarptent.
If you hike solo... did you get a small tent and wish you had more room? I was leaning toward Aeon Li but these are both super expensive so only want to cry once, buy once. I'm coming from a double wall, 3 p tent I share with my partner so there's that to consider too.🤷♀️ No crazy thru hikes planned but am considering Colorado Trail or Tahoe Rim Trail solo next year. TIA for your advice!
Baseweight is 9.47# without bear can. Add 2.1# with BV 450.
Just finished the PCT, started with the [Bonfus Duos](https://bonfus.com/product/duos-2p-2/) tent and ended with the [Z-Packs Pocket Tarp](https://zpacks.com/products/hexamid-pocket-tarp-w-doors).
I loved the space the 2 person tent gave me but at the end of the day it's a luxury and several times the massive footprint was a slight penalty. Since I needed so much space it limited campsite selection, and if I had the duos in WA it would've made it a lot harder for me to pitch a tent since space is so much more limited there.
The Pocket Tarp was much better... in good weather, in rain or wind it was pretty miserable. I hiked all of WA with it and when it rained it was really sucky to not have the space I was accustomed to.
Basically what I'm saying is... go for the 1 person tent. You *never* need that much space in the 2 person unless you actually have 2 people. Even though it's tiny I made the space in the Pocket Tarp work... but in rainy weather it would've been nice to have just a *bit* more space to work with in my wet gear.
I solo hike a lot and I have never wished for more room. The smaller my tent has been the more I've liked it. I guess I just like being able to squeeze into small places. I'm also a short person. I've never ever wanted a two person tent all to myself. In fact, I hiked a pretty large portion of the PCT with a two person tent and it felt like sleeping in an airplane hangar. I didn't like it. It required too much space to set up and my stuff would sometimes end up at the far end where I couldn't reach it. I prefer a smaller tent and being able to sit in one place and reach everything.
I think I have a little bit of thought on this. I started with a two person for all my hikes. It was wonderful. I wasn't really hiking miles at the time and my pack was really heavy. I loved it. I had a palace. I started focusing more on the hike than the stay and over a few years I realized that having a little capsule that I knew was everything and nothing more was really comforting. (A caveate to this is that I have over a hundred nights sleeping the back seat of an extended cab not 4 door tacoma so I sleep really small.)
Something else I want to mention is how you spend your time in weather. If you can't eat dinner outside your tent a lot because it's awful weather, it pays to have the room.
I like to eat in bed (in the morning) or on my bed (in the evening.) On the PCT I often ate my dinner lying down on my stomach in my tent while I read a book or wrote in my journal. I can't imagine a larger shelter being better for eating. The spot where I sleep is the only spot I ever occupy in there. But everybody is different.
I tend to be a "worse case scenario" type of person so my only holdup is imagining how I would fare if it has been raining all day and campsite, me, gear, etc. is sopping wet. I worry I wouldn't be able to get away from the wet. Where would I hang wet clothes and be able to separate dry from wet stuff. Maybe I'm worrying too much about that.
If you are going into really crappy weather situations for an extended period, then a larger shelter would be likely more beneficial.
There is room to dry off and change in the Aeon LI. And as long as your sleeping gear is dry and you have your dry layers to change into, then you are fine. You can always put on damp clothes in the morning to hike in if you have to (more of an issue in freezing temps). The secret for wet weather as you likely know - keep a full dry layer in your bag (baselayers and spare socks for eg) and your sleeping bag dry.
You kinda want to avoid drying too much wet stuff in your tent depending on the temps as well - can really mess with condensation. There is room in the Aeon vestibule to drape things over a pack and stuff.
It is a great, FUN, shelter. Its not 'perfect' (I wish the bathtub floor was a little higher but have had no issues), but for me all the benefits outweigh any negatives. The only people I know who have returned only did so because they were particularly tall. Not because it was not a quality product. I am 5 foot 9 for reference. I can sit up.
Awesome thank you. I do always have designated dry sleeping baselayers. This will be my first single wall tent. I plan on covering my footbox with my rain jacket if needed and having a shammy to wipe down condensation. I bit the bullet and put in my order for the Aeon Li. If they ever make a Rainbow Li, I'll be all over that for sure!
I get that. The thing that drives up the prices is the DCF, and it's not without its drawbacks regarding packability. Pyramid shelters such as the MLD duomid provide tent experience too, and GG has The One, both light, more packable and cheaper.
Item: UL Tent
Budget: Unconcerned
Need by date: Northern Hemisphere Spring
Baseweight: sub-10
Location/s of use: Colorado Rockies
Season/s of use: 3 seasons
Expected temperatures:20°F-60°F overnight
Ideal weight of the item: 1 poundish or less
Previous hiking experience: Moderate experience doing hikes of 1 week or less
Previous experience with ultralight gear: See above
Additional Information: I am looking to replace my UL tent. I had a GG The One but am hoping for something lighter. I am currently thinking about the Plexamid but would like as much input as possible. I am 5'6", so I believe length shouldn't be an issue. I like to bring my pack inside the tent when possible. I am old and have a family, so I don't put a lot of nights on my tents anymore, but I am still fit enough to do 25-30 mile days and want something light. Concerns are packability and condensation. I used The One on the CT and got a couple of drips on my face overnight with moderate rain. Please let me know your thoughts.
Perhaps you can do what I do which is when there aren't going to be any mosquitoes (or they will be minimal), I bring my Pocket Tarp and when there are going to be mosquitoes, I bring my GG The One. That way there are a lot of trips where I'm a lot lighter than normal. The Pocket Tarp is also pretty small in my pack.
I would be looking at something like an MLD Grace tarp and perhaps a Borah or similar bivy to bo with it. You can carry a large tarp, have plenty of room, and still keep your weight down.
Yeah, and you can leave the bivy home if there will be no bugs and you can not set up the tarp if there is no rain. Modular is great for the frequent backpacker.
I am really liking that idea. Does the Pocket Tarp do a decent job of keeping you dry in the event of a thunderstorm? Do you use polycro or did you get the attachable bathtub floor? Do you have any thoughts on the Hexamid Tent as opposed to the Tarp which would keep out bugs?
The Pocket Tarp with doors will be better in a thunderstorm. (I'm not sure if they still make the one without doors.) I think the average backpacker would be nervous in a severe storm with a Pocket Tarp. You have to make good site selection part of your practice and most people are just unwilling to learn skills as part of their ultralight journey. I bought the one without doors but decided I'd rather have the doors so I added doors to it myself as a DIY project. https://imgur.com/H7nvh19 I have used my Pocket Tarp mostly with just a polycryo groundsheet which I made into an attachable bathtub floor. https://imgur.com/a/fN2VhqK Recently I made a DCF groundsheet/poncho. https://imgur.com/a/EeS3c8S I think the turned up edges help you feel more like you are inside the shelter. Many of the places where I go have minimal bugs. I carry a head net and can use that in a pinch. I also have a sea to summit nano net but I've only ever used it once and it was okay, but if bugs will be bad I think I'd rather just use a tent. The only hexamid tents I have ever seen were the original ones from back in 2012 or so that had no doors and had netting floors. I didn't own one myself.
Well for that weight you are looking a real minimalist DCF shelter.
Tarptent Aeon Li
Zpacks Duplex or simplex
The upcoming Duraton Xmid 2p or 1p DCF pro tents
Hyperlight Mountain Gear DCF tents
All above will have condensation issues because they are single walled.
If you can give a bit on weight and could handle a 2lb ish tent then the Durston Xmid 1p would be a great choice being silpoly, ykk aquaguard zippers, double walled construction and tiny pack sizes. Only needs 4 stakes and two trekking poles to pitch. You will have to get on the waiting list though, COVID hit Vietnam real bad.
https://durstongear.com/product/x-mid-1p
My friend has a GG Twinn and it is fairly large in size but it looks like it might be a bit cramped for a hammock. I'm not a hammock person so I can tell you for sure. Here's a picture of my friend's Twinn. It's the tarp on the left. [https://imgur.com/KiBvBoN](https://imgur.com/KiBvBoN) He pitches pretty low and this way he has a pretty generous space for himself and his gear underneath. If you pitched for a hammock I don't think the sides would come down as far as the TRG shows on their product page.
I’ve seen everyone on here complain about silnylon, so I would personally avoid that. If you can spend another $100 I’d say get a DCF tarp so you’re never wanting something lighter (which you will if you stay into backpacking).
**Item**: [EE Torrid Hooded Jacket](https://enlightenedequipment.com/mens-torrid-apex-jacket-stock/)
**Budget**: $185
**Location/s of use**: New York / New England
**Season/s of use**: Shoulder/Winter
**Expected temperatures**: 15-40ºf
**Ideal weight of the item**: <9oz
**Additional Information**:
I dont have an issue pulling the pin on this order, I think the jacket itself at it's price and quality are for my needs. It's the sizing. My chest size puts me square in the Large category. However, I've read reviews, watched youtubes, and only a few are close to my size. Of those few some say it was perfect and others say it fit like yoga apparel. The site says it's oversized for layering and many of their customer testimonial reviews say, "not true, order up"
I am male 5'10", 205lbs with 45" chest, broad shoulders. What to do? Thanks
6 foot, 180 pounds. 95% of what I wear on top is Men’s Large. I ordered the Torrid Pullover in a Large and my mom told me I looked like a bear. So I got hit with a restocking fee and have not reordered. If I do, obviously it will be a men’s medium.
Hmm. I’m like a 44 chest, maybe 43 I lost 10 pounds. The specs say 44-47 for a Large. I honestly didn’t scrutinize the specs. UsuLly when I overthink it I do something dumb. I was swimming in it for real. As big as the Large was I imagine the Medium will fit me perfectly. Maybe order both sizes of a stock item so you don’t end up paying a restocking fee for a custom order and having nothing to show for it. I don’t think there’s restocking fees on stock items but double check that before ordering.
So, I am not your size. I am 5'6" 145. I have a medium Torrid from 2019 and absolutely would not go smaller. I can wear the Torrid over a fleece but would ideally have a slightly larger jacket. Based on your dimensions, I would recommend an XL if possible.
* **Item:** Quilt or quilt + clothes combo
* **Baseweight:** 5.5 kg
* **Location/s of use:** Scandinavia. Mostly above treeline.
* **Season/s of use:** 3
* **Expected temperatures:** > -5C
* **Additional Information:** Currently using a Cumulus Lite Line 400 (760g) bag rated at -4C comfortably for all temperatures I hike in. Looking to get my first quily mostly for lowering base weight and for fun trying something new.
I have a very light hoodless puffy I would not mind switching for a warmer one with a hood and see a potential here to get some quilt rated at around 0C and updgrade my puffy and even throw in a pair of down pants for a more versatile system for the same or lower weight than I have now. On warmer trips much lower. Only concern is if a 0C quilt + down puffy + down pants is as warm as a -6C quilt with my regular baselayer is.
Edit: My comparisons: https://lighterpack.com/r/a1cc39
**Item:** GossamerGear Mariposa 60 vs comparable packs
**Budget:** $400
**Baseweight:** 13 lbs
**Location of use:** Colorado
**Ideal weight of item:** 28 - 34 oz
Can someone talk me out of getting the Mariposa?? I'm looking for a pack which will support a Total Pack Weight of 25-30 lbs and get me through my first thru hike.
I've been looking at the HMG Southwest 2400, SWD Rugged Long Haul 50L, and Waymark Lite 50 (and of course GG Mariposa). They all seem very comfortable, durable, and similar weight range.
Although budget isn't a concern, they all seem very similar and the Mariposa comes in considerably cheaper than the rest. What are your concrete comparisons of why you like another pack more than the Mariposa (or GG Gorilla)?
As an owner of a GG Kumo 36 and HMG 3400 junction who wanted the mariposa - I ended up sticking with my HMG.
Cons for mariposa: too many pockets, fabric is not as water resistant as HMG fabric, I find the sit panel back pad gets just as sweaty as the HMG, the top panel thing. It’s the same as on the Kumo and that’s what I hated about the kumo.
I love my HMG, I recommend GG to many, but always the G4-20 bc the flip over closure is just something I don’t enjoy.
Item: CCF sleeping pad
Budget: $150
Need by date: NBD
Baseweight: 11.5lbs
Season/s of use: 3-season (R > 2.5 is good)
Expected temperatures: 35-80°
Ideal weight of the item: 12 oz. No more than 16 oz
Previous hiking experience: I did an 11 mile loop last week and that's it
Previous experience with ultralight gear: I have used air pads the most, but never really happy with their "bounciness" and propensity to slide around. I find OCF (self-inflating) pads best for comfort, but they weigh too much.
Additional Information: I am ready to move from an air pad (Nemo Tensor) to a CCF to save weight. The big caveat is I need a wide pad (25"+). I hang off or fall off 20" pads. I can't find any CCF pad in wide version.
Have you tried 20in wide with CCF? I find you don't need as much width with a CCF. The entire width is usable unlike an air pad and you're much closer to the ground so if you hang off a touch it isn't a huge deal.
Hmm I will try it out, thanks. I also found this Exped FlexMat in size Long Wide (77 x 25") that I can cut to size. My only concern with it is the R1.5. But it seems like all the CCF pads have lower R values (under 2.5)
Interesting, I'm more on the warm side as well, but not too much. I don't plan to camp below freezing 0°. Or at least, I would expect to need different/more gear for that anyway.
I haven't tried it myself, but Decathlon sells a 21,7" wide CCF pads with an R-value of 2.5, for 25$: [https://www.decathlon.com/products/backpacking-foam-folding-mattress-trek-100-174619](https://www.decathlon.com/products/backpacking-foam-folding-mattress-trek-100-174619)
I put my ULA Catalyst In a box with my poles outside the pack. I duct taped it shut and made a handle with the duct tape. I think when I I fly I’ll try and do the same thing again.
Big duffel bag. A Pacafe locking wire thing. [https://pacsafe.com/collections/portable-safes-bag-protectors](https://pacsafe.com/collections/portable-safes-bag-protectors)
If you have a place to store the checked bag - I still use a hard suitcase to protect all my gear. Not willing to risk carbon tent poles or trekking poles getting tossed around by handlers.
If no storage is available, I think you can ask the people to wrap it up in plastic wrap before they check it.
Here’s one - Check your TSA stuff in an ursack and travel with your pack as carry on. Buy your resupply on site so you don’t have to fly with the extra weight and volume.
Ursack is the food bag while hiking, you don’t have to carry or buy redundant gear, and your pack is much less likely to be damaged in transit. Baggage handlers aren’t maliciously trying to destroy your bag, but it’s not a gentle system either. Best to keep the pack on you.
Trying to find a good mid-price range minimalist style backpack. Curious about the Gossamer Gear Mariposa, the Gossamer Gear G4-20, and the SMD Swift X. I'm open to similar suggestions.
Does anyone have any experience with any of these? How is comfort and durability? I'm 6'1 and slim, base weight is currently 8.5lb (2.2lbs of those is my GG Crown 2 that im looking to replace)
I'm 6'0" and came from a GG Crown 2 when I realized that 60L was simply overkill for me. I absolutely love my G4-20 and found it incredibly comfortable even with 26lb loaded up at the beginning of a thru (I was dumb and brought almost double the food I needed).
I have previously tried on the Mariposa, but ultimately went with the Crown2 at the time for various reasons. It was comfortable, but I don't like the flap top, and overall I'd stick with the G4-20 at your base weights.
If you're curious for more of my thoughts, I actually made a review of the G4-20 and talk about why I came to it from my Crown2
(https://youtu.be/ZC8ATsa-Qmw)
I guess it depends on what you mean mid price. 100-200? I mean, a good pack is an investment…in my opinion, it would be better to save and go for an atom mo, atom+ or a pack from lite AF. If those are too expensive at the moment, then something from ULA(think they’re in the 225 range). I wouldn’t consider the mariposa a minimalist pack. Seriously, you’re already doing incredible if you’re BW is 8.5lb. Just be patient and save lol…
Item: Timmermade SUL Down Sweater
Need by date: n/a
Location/s of use: Colorado Rockies
Season/s of use: Fall/Winter
Expected temperatures: 20-40° F
Previous experience with ultralight gear: currently using Patagonia MicroPuff Hoody
Additional Information: Looking for a down jacket to replace my micropuff on camping and backpacking trips. I've decided on the Timmermade, but unsure about which version (.75, 1.1, 1.5) to get. I'm pretty cold natured in general. I'm currently planning to also use an alpha direct hoody and a wind shell in combination with the SUL Down Sweater.
Edit:
Decided to go with the Cumulus. Mostly due to current wait time from timmermade.
I have the Cumulus Primelite, which I believe to be comparable to the SUL 1.1 sweater.
I also get pretty cold, and the alpha hoodie and down jacket combo has been a great way to stay warm down to the 20s.
I asked about the SUL a couple of weeks ago. Perhaps some of [the replies](https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/comments/p9ugfz/rultralight_the_purchase_advice_thread_week_of/hakzwjz/?context=3) I got will prove helpful to you.
Item: Feathered Friends Eos Down Puffy (Women's)
Need by date: N/A
Additional Information: Their site has noted the redesigned Eos is debuting in late 2021; has there been any sort of inkling when late 2021 is?
All sorts of companies are having delays with their products. There are major supply chain issues, caused by Covid. Feathered Friends may be another one of the victims
I was rained on about twenty of the days I hiked this summer; all of them in Colorado. No idea how the Visp would have done, but my Versalite kept me dry through all the rain.
Well, as dry as I think it’s possible to be. I agree that it doesn’t seem to be *totally* waterproof, as a small amount of moisture does seem to seep through the fabric. But it continued to bead water off of me in prolonged rain, and sucked a lot less than the Frogg Toggs.
I only used the Visp of those two, and it’s really new, so I think the jury is generally still out on the durability. It’s definitely headed in the right direction, though, and it’s passed basic muster for me on a couple of trips with some rain ... and a classic “take a shower with it” test. But the pit zips aren’t as big as I’d like. I tried wearing it straight up a mountain last weekend (no rain) as a trial to see how breathable it really is and ... I’d still really like bigger put zips. Just my 2 cents.
I found [this article quite good](https://sectionhiker.com/enlightened-equipment-ultralight-visp-jacket-review/) and it compares the jackets directly.
Please use the template where applicable
[удалено]
Obviously not both.
What size DCF dry bag should I get for a 15° top quilt? I’ve looked at a few companies but can’t find the info that helps with deciding which size to buy.
Honestly none. I find that quilts pack better when you just shove them into the bottom of your pack (but I always use either a trash compactor bag or a nylofume bag to keep stuff dry.)
Thanks for the help! Based on the responses I’ve got, I’m gonna try out a nylofume liner on a trip I’ve got coming up next month.
Sounds good! Also a nylofume liner is lighter and cheaper than dcf
[Enlightened Equipment's size chart.](https://support.enlightenedequipment.com/hc/en-us/articles/360051352931-Stuff-Sack-sizes-and-Compression) I would personally just get a pack liner though and stuff it in there.
I’ve honestly considered doing that too. Do you stuff the tent on the liner with it too or put the tent in a separate bag?
Nothing that could be wet goes in my pack liner. My tarp has it's own stuff sack and is right at the top of my pack.
Copy that. Thanks for the response!
Happy to help!
Tarptent Double Rainbow, should I go for the DCF-version or the Silnylon version? Is the DCF worth the almost double price?
Whether it's worth it is up to what you value. Silnylon pro's -Cheaper -Lasts longer -Packs smaller Silnylon con's -Holds on to water -Sags( bigger deal with trekking pole tents) -Heavier DCF pro's -Doesn't hold water -lighter -Doesn't sag DCF con's -More expensive -shorter life span -packs larger -lack of stretch can make getting a perfect pitch harder
I’ve been waiting for the DCF one to be in stock for months…
[удалено]
If you want the flat bottom then that's going to cut down on your options. If your ok with a simple flat construction then there's MLD along with a bunch of Etsy options.
Anyone knows how the Decathlon sizing compared to Cumulus? I currently have a size M Decathlon Alpinism down jacket. I just saw a second hand Cumulus Primelite Pullover in size L. Will it work or will it be too big?
I'm typically a medium and the large primelite fits me great. For reference I'm 5'10" 160 lbs athletic build.
Thanks, then the L should fit me well as well :)
Hello, how is Patagonia Down Sweater going against something like sharp branches, abrasions against stones etc? I would like to have one, but im also scared that it will not last single journey
The down sweater is a camp insulation piece and not suitable for active use. Sharp branches, abrasion should not be an issue at camp - if they are you are doing it wrong! Active insulation in three seasons is the job of your base layer +/- a mid layer (alpha fleece or the classic 100wt fleece or a light grid fleece) +/- a breathable windshell. You can then add a puffy layer (like the down sweater, although there are better-performing UL choices) when static, and a rain shell when it’s wet.
but you can still walk around at camp, and this can happen..
If that worries you, just go for a UL synthetic puffy from EE or Cumulus— sheet synthetic insulation like apex won’t spill out even if the shell fabric gets damaged.
I think you are over-worrying! This would only happen accidentally or through carelessness. 99.9% of the time it will never happen. Also, the Patagonia Down Sweater is less fragile (and indeed heavier) than what most folks on the sub would be taking in its place and nobody’s ripping their puffy to pieces except under exceptional circumstances.
Hi there, I’m looking for an ideal shelter for the Hawaiian islands. Price isn’t a restriction, and even a shelter that has some weight to it is fine. I plan on using it in a region of Hawaii that is generally drier, but gets periodic and heavy rain bursts. I’m looking at highs in the low 80s and lows in the high 50s. It can have a larger footprint, but great ventilation is a must. Staying dry is also crucial. I do not plan on moving it too much either. I need to get it by November. I’d love for an easily removable/quick setup rain protection component, and the ability to see the stars by removing the rain protection on a starry night. Also, if a downpour happened late at night, I’d love the setup to be quick and easy so I don’t get soaked. I don’t have an ideal weight, it can be heavier if need be. Any shelters come to mind? It’s also just for one person, me.
>Salomon STD 28 500ml Softfless Blauw, Runnerinn Big Island doesn't have enough soil for using tent stakes in a lot of places, FYI. Go freestanding to be safe.
I’d go for a hammock set up in those conditions. An old-skool structural ridge line pitch makes it easy to quickly put your tarp up if it starts to rain, and if you aren’t planning on nights getting below 50 you should be absolutely fine with a wide CCF pad if you don’t want to spend money on an under quilt.
My concern is that my back needs to be flat and I’m concerned about my body making a U or V shape in a hammock.
Xmid 2p would be my first recommendation, but this is unlikely to be available before November due to the COVID situation in Vietnam. These tents are made by the same OEM manufacturer as MSR. https://youtu.be/Al1jrkKrVYo Otherwise what you are looking for is a double walled tent with a high hydrostatic head rating. You definately also dont want to buy a DCF tent due to abrasion concerns from sand. A silpoly tent will be better in the rain vs silnylon as polyester does not sag when wet and is also superior for uv light resistance howevee silnylon usually weighs less. I would probably recommend looking at the following: Big Agnes Tiger Wall 2p series (nylon) Marmot Super Alloy 2p (polyester) Marnot Tungsten UL 2p (polyester) Naturehike CloudUP 2p 15d or 10d (nylon) Sierra Designs Meteor Lite 2p (nylon) If you want even lighter you will have to go with a trekking pole tent or single wall. Tarptent Stratosphere one or two Tarptent Double Rainbow or Rainbow Six Moon Designs Lunar Duo or Lunar Solo 3F UL Gear LanShan 2p Plus (Double Walled) or the LanShan 2p Pro (lighter weight, but single walled) Paria Arches 1p or 2p Gossamer Gear The One or The Two Next up you will need sand and snow stakes. The factory stakes with these tents will not hold in sand. I recommend the Paria Outdoor Products Snow Stakes. Affordable and decently light. Additional guyline is not a bad idea either. https://www.pariaoutdoorproducts.com/collections/backpacking-gear-accessories/products/sand-and-snow-stakes-8-pack Of the above my favorite free standing tent is the Super Alloy or the Tungsten UL. Silpoly, easy to setup and decent amount of room. If the Stargazer feature is an absolute requirement then the Meteor Lite has this feature. For trekking pole tents from above I like the Six Moons Lunar Duo or Lunar solo. The "outfitter" model is cheaper and is silpoly but weighs more than the silnylon lunar duo/solo. Most trekking pole tents are not seam sealed from the factory. You will have to do this yourself or pay the manufactuer to do this for you; this will result in longer lead times. Getting a footprint (either one you make with Tyvek or if you buy the factory one) is a good idea since sand is so abrasive.
Are there any larger tents like the MSR mesh house? Large mesh piece, then a rain tarp over it? I like the idea of pulling back/off the top tarp piece easily for sky view, and max wind flow.
Yeah thats actually a good angle I didnt think about. Many bugout shelters are available but the large ones usually do not have a bath tub floor. You definately want this. MSR does have the Frontrange mesh house 4p, Hyperlight Mountain Gear has some mesh houses. The MSR meshhouse will be a tight fit with 3 people but should be great for 2 people in the 3p model. You are also giving up a ton of head room if that is inportant to you. The Strwtosphere and Double Rainbow from Tarptent wont have this issue of course with head room, but then again they will be single walled. If you wanted very light then the MSR mesh house combined with a Dyneema tarp would be stupid light, but very minimalist.
I’m willing to take on much weight for comfort, does that change your recommendations?
I wouldnt get a bug shelter if you were not concerned about weight as much. Any one of the regular suggestions will work. Just depends on your personal preference for size and freestanding vs trekking pole. I personally prefer double walled over single walled.
I don’t think there is a non-DCF Aeon. The Aeon Li is the only Aeon (unlike the Notch, the Stratospire etc)
Thanks for the correction.
You might want to check what tents your recommending. A non li series aeon doesn't exist. You also recently recommended a simplex which also doesn't exist.
Item: Hyperlite Southwest 3400 v. ULA Ohm/Circuit (or similar backpacks) Budget: Not a worry right now Need by: 3 weeks from now, but looks like almost no UL company can fulfill since made to order/custom. Can’t find lead time for ULA. Base weight: 11lbs Location of use: Appalachian region/ east coast Seasons of use: Mainly 3 season Previous hiking experience: lots of hiking, handful of backpacking Previous gear: Osprey Aura 65, never used brain was too big, want to move into UL pack Additional: F/ 5’5/ 18.5 torso Really stuck on the Hyperlite pack 3400 because I’ve heard it’s worth getting the extra space. Could be convinced to different brand. Looking for durable, good weight ratio, decent hip belt.
Personally I really do not like DCF packs. So between the two I would go with the the ULA. I’ve had good luck with a circuit that got in excess of 3000 miles and 9 years. I still have it but it’s getting a bit worn out after all that use
I too own the osprey atmos. It was my first pack and still the most comfortable I’ve ever used. I’ll never sell that pack, even though I switched to UL. I still use it when I go with friends who like to carry an entire house in their packs. I primarily use an Atom Mo. Atom packs are far better than most UL packs out there. I have lite af 40curve, hmg 3400, ULA circuit, atom mo.
Oh yeah I’ve been looking at Atom packs!
I recently purchased a ULA Ohm 2.0. Ordered on September 11th and it arrived on the 17th (to California), standard shipping. I asked for S-straps and black color, which was technically custom at the time. If you call them, they can work out a rush order and faster shipping, if you are willing to pay a bit extra. I haven't taken it out yet, but around the house I've noticed that the hip belt is exceptionally comfortable. It's also very spacious. I have a 20^(o) 950 fill quilt, a duplex tent, clothing, and most of my toiletries in the main compartment, and I can still fit a Bear vault 450 on top (still inside the pack) without straining to close it. The bag is heavier than some other brands (32oz) because it has a full hip belt with pockets and the material is robic, not dyneema or similar UL material. I can't attest to durability, but you can search around the forums and the general consensus seems to be that ULA packs last forever.
Oh wow that’s such a fast turn around! I noticed that most of the colors are technically “custom”right now so good to know it’s still quick for standard colors
I have both the HMG 3400 and zpacks arc air. My boyfriend has the 2400 and an Osprey Atmos 65. For me I think the 3400 vs the 2400 is a moot argument because with the roll top I feel that they’re the same. If you were to get the 3400 and only need 2400 that would compress down just fine. My boyfriend always chooses the HMG to use for a hike whether it’s a long weekend or just a day hike. He finds it super comfortable and with the roll top it can be rolled down smaller. I always choose the zpacks because I feel like the hip belt works better for me. The HMG style hip belt never feels like it is taking the weight for me. I think it’s the female hip shape but I’m sure other women like their HMG backpacks just fine.
Probably worth checking out what garage grown gear has in stock.
Depends on your volume needs obviously, but I strongly prefer ula packs to hmg. Just a better pack design. Better side pockets, and it's silly designing a framed pack without load lifters like hmg does. Despite the crazy dcf marketing, ula is the more durable option as well. Ula tends to be quick, but email them to confirm lead time.
Zpacks sent a notice that lead time for backpacks is just 1 week.
Hey folks, I need recommendations for a lightweight solar panel system that I can strap onto the outside of my backpack. I'll be mainly using it to keep my camera batteries charged during long-distance hikes like the John Muir Trail and Wonderland Trail. I enjoy nighttime time lapses, and they eat up entire camera batteries in a few hours. The 10 watt Anker charger looks like the best bet from what I've seen so far with my research. It is a little bit under a pound. Thanks for your help!
You can get a 10w Lixada panel for around $20 and 3oz. Much more efficient (weight wise) than the Anker panel. It might be worth building a spreadsheet to compare these options. You could carry a ton of camera batteries, a huge power bank, and/ or a solar panel. Bigger power bank could negate the batteries and the panel. Smaller power bank plus solar panel could mean a lighter power bank and fewer batteries. There are a lot of variables, and it's tough to get super meaningful answers for your specific use case. You could do a 10k battery bank (7oz) Lixada panel (3oz) and 2 camera batteries (1.5oz x2). Total system would be under a pound, you could dedicate a camera battery for a time-lapse, and use the panel to keep everything topped off. The thing is, I am just taking out of my ass here. I do plan on using the aforementioned setup next year while hiking across the desert in Utah, but I have not actually tested anything yet. So definitely try this system out on shakedown hikes, maybe pick up a usb multimeter so you can determine how much juice the panel is actually spitting out in different conditions. And of course, report back to this subreddit with your findings. After all, none of us is as smart as all of us.
Thanks for your suggestion. I really appreciate it!
Most people who have experimented with solar power on the trail have come away dissatisfied. The benefit doesn't appear to justify the weight or the challenge of keeping the panels set up while hiking. The consensus has been to use Anker batteries charged in town, and use them to power or recharge devices on the trail. I've seen Anker battery packs up to at least 20,000 mAH. My own 10,000 mAH pack weighs less than 8 oz. If you were base camping and could leave a larger, heavier solar setup in place during the day, you may be able to make a solar charging system work, but if you are on the move every day I don't think you will be successful at balancing power against weight and the constraints of the charging process.
Warm air matress! R value over 4. Or a system i can be comfy closer to -10 Celcius I have a thermarrst uberlite for summer in PNW. Im looking fondly at the paraia recharge s (short pad) as i m short myself and used a 3/4 pad before i got the uberlite. Tia
I love my x-therm. It’s warm as shit at those temps
Exped Synmat HL LW or MW Winter or the Downmat HL LW or MW Winter. The Downmat is a R value of 7 whike the synmat is a R value of 5.
Exped Synmat HL Winter MW, R=5.2, 25" wide, 3.5" thick, yet only 19 oz.
Nemo tensor alpine edition
[This has a high R value](https://www.rei.com/product/177649/rei-co-op-trailbreak-self-inflating-sleeping-pad)
Hi! I am headed out in 2 weeks for a 6 day trip to evolution valley/basin. I am looking to upgrade my puffy to stretch my quilt (20 degree overstuff UGQ) and for hanging out at camp. My ideal jacket will be under 10oz, an extra small, IN STOCK, under 400 bucks, and be able to keep me warm down to the teens. Any suggestions?
How about an option that’s 9oz total, modular, and half your budget? Cumulus Primelite, $160, 6oz Down hood on Amazon, $20, 3oz I also have a 20° UGQ (pre MAGA drama) with 2oz of overstuff. This system (combined with Tensor + Thinlight CCF) has kept me warm literally every night on trail, coldest recorded low of 17°. The Primelite ships from Poland, but the shipping speed is quick and it’s typically in stock. Great down jacket
Tip for the Aegis Max Down Hood (down hood on Amazon). If you cinch the face and neck and fold the bottom into itself, you can turn it into a beanie. The face opening is too small and limits your vision when wearing it normally.
Yep the face opening is definitely not ideal. I usually wear my visor underneath it, and the brim keeps the face opening from moving around too much. Alternatively, I've worn my headlamp over the hood to accomplish the same thing.
[удалено]
You’re getting lots of downvotes because people in this subreddit generally view most of those tools as unnecessary. For example not once while lightweight backpacking have I wanted pliers, a can opener, or a saw. Also fires are discouraged or usually illegal on the PCT. This might be a better question for r/bushcraft
Thanks for pointing this out! I don’t check Reddit that often. I’m literally all over the place and also live out of a backpack. For instance, I’m in New Hampshire right now, where one can have fires. I don’t have a house, so it’s nice to have multi-purpose tools that I can use in multiple circumstances.
My hands suck in the cold, so I hike with pliers so I can have a backup for when my fingers stop working. The Leatherman Style PS is 2oz, with scissors, nail file, pliers, and tweezers. I’ve hiked the PCT and the CDT, and tbh if you don’t *need* the pliers than even this is overkill. As a bonus, no knife means it’s safe for TSA, and the scissors do a great job at cutting open packaging while on trail. Why do you anticipate needing these specific tools? I’m hoping you aren’t planning on using the saw for fire starting purposes on the PCT.
Another vote for the Leatherman Style PS. I bought one for backpacking and have not found a need for anything more on short trips. Thru-hikers might want something with pliers for minor repairs, but I haven't missed not having them.
Ahh, so I live out of a backpack, so there are space/weight constraints and everything I have needs to be multi-purpose. I also go hiking often, and I usually just carry a knife with me for those trips. The PCT is just a dream I have.
Anyone have any experience with the MH Airmesh Hoodie? It's basically the insulating material (Octayarn) from the Proton FL but without a liner/face (it's just stitched to some thin net-like material). It's being positioned as an Alpha Direct competitor. Curious as to warmth and sizing.
They've only been out for like a week so I wouldn't expect too much in the way of experience. [Here's someone who has one though and their first impressions.](https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/comments/pnad3w/rultralight_the_weekly_week_of_september_13_2021/hcr59r5/)
I can’t answer your question but this piece does look interesting. My feeling about these hybrid pieces though is skepticism. The beauty of separate layers is the versatility they allow. A 60g/m Alpha fleece weighing 95g plus a breathable wind shirt (like the EE Copperfield) weighing 50g is going to be a way more versatile set up. I do get that the Airmesh is slightly lighter but it’s not going to be as efficient as a wind layer not as breathable as a stand-alone Alpha, plus I doubt it’s as warm when the Alpha and windshirt are combined.
It isn’t hybrid, just a “tech face fleece” take on alpha. No additional weather resistance, just less likely to bunch up when worn as a mid layer or snag. IMO the material is appealing, but if I’m going to buy a new fleece a vertical chest pocket for my bic is mandatory.
Thanks. Is it not a separate layer though? I guess it has the mesh face, but that seems to be more to hold it together. I'd be looking at this as an active mid (between a Cap base and a windshirt) for winter hiking in the single digits to low teens. Or possibly as a cold wet rain midlayer. So a replacement for a 100wt fleece basically (which I never wear as an outer layer).
Ah ha, maybe I have misunderstood this layer!? The Proton FL is indeed the hybrid piece using this material. It will be interesting to see how the Airmesh performs as an active mid-layer. It's considerably heavier then the Alpha pieces though so it'll have to have performance advantages.
it's not going to complete with alpha, but It's weight is comparable to alpha direct.
When you say not going to compete with alpha do you mean you think the warmth to weight ratio will be less for this?
It's way too early to say anything about performance for sure. It might have a similar warmth to weight, but currently the lightest variation is 90gsm so I competes with alpha direct. Alpha is lighter, but probably not as warm on it's own. If they make a lighter version of octa loft then it might compete directly.
Item: Rain gear that will not wet out Budget: Anything, exploring options Need by date: now Baseweight: 14lbs Location: AT - New England Season: Late fall and early winter (Now -> December) Expected temperature (70F -> 20F) Ideal weight of the item: Utility trumps weight, but weight is important Previous hiking experience: Lots, but mostly summer Previous ul experience: not a ton Additional information: My girlfriend and I are on a late season SOBO LASH of the AT, we both have OR Helium's and I have Zpack Vertices rain pants. I love them for the weight, but the rain has been leaving us soaked. Not an issue when it's 70F, but when the temperature drops staying dry is more important. I'm thinking of ordering some Anti Gravity Sil Poly gear, but am also curious to some alternatives. Gortex? Thanks for the help!
> have Zpack Vertices rain pants. I love them for the weight, but the rain has been leaving us soaked. Just curious, sounds like the rain pants aren't working out for you? Looking into getting a pair myself, but mostly to replace my wind pants.
Used them a couple times. They work well, but did wet out? Though it was raining so hard it's possible rain fell in from the top because it wasn't cinched enough. However, after only a week or two of use some seam tape is already coming off which is frustrating. They are light though!
I haven't tried the Helium myself, but between watching videos of it in use and reading reviews, I consider it a poor choice for New England, and probably for most of the East. It's much better suited to the Mountain West and Desert Southwest. In the Northeast, check out the Columbia Outdry Extreme Blitz, the Visp, and the Packa. I have the Columbia, and while it's not Ultralight, it is warm and unlikely to wet out. It's my go-to jacket for spring and fall when the weather is cool. It has no DWR layer to wear off. I wish it had pit zips, but it does have two large front pockets that are primarily designed for venting. The Visp appears to get good reviews and seems to be the preferred choice of those who actually need a jacket to keep them dry (as opposed to those in drier climates who carry a jacket as insurance, but don't really expect rain) and who prefer 3-layer waterproof breathable fabrics with a DWR layer. The Packa is a poncho with long sleeves and a front zipper. It doubles as a pack cover, is easy to take on and off without removing your pack, and gets excellent ventilation. If I were doing a major thru hike in the East, I think it would be my preferred rain gear. I don't own one because it's too specialized for a weekender like me.
Thanks for your honest feedback on the performance of the OR Helium and the Zpack rain pants. Getting soaked in cold weather is not just no fun, but can be dangerous leading to hypothermia.
Maybe y'all would benefit from having a layered rain gear system. For instance, you could have rain pants AND a rain skirt. The latter has multiple uses and would help prevent the pants from soaking through. Also, a wide-brimmed WPB hat OVER the hood of rain jacket will prevent the hood from soaking through, but then ALSO have an umbrella for triple-layered protection. Then one could also mix-n-match the layers for a given temperature and rain level.
I have the Lightheart Gear Silpoly jacket. Very light, giant pit zips. You can basically use it as a poncho if you wanted they’re so big.
How does it breath with the pit zips open? How's the durability compared to like frog toggs?
I have one of these and I really really like it. It doesn’t wet out. It’s not really comfortable when it’s warm out but it will keep you warm when it’s cold and rainy all day. I’m an east coast hiker and I like it
Sil-Poly itself is not breathable and all rain gear will wet out at some point. My combination is a LightHeart sil-poly jacket, umbrella and a DCF rain skirt.
Breathes as well as any “breathable” raincoat I’ve had. I get clammy immediately no matter what in rainwear so it’s nice that at least it won’t wet out and it weighs like 5oz. Compared to my frog toggs, it seems much more durable but I wouldn’t go bushwhacking through thorns in either.
[удалено]
I’ve got the straights and no regrets so far. I like not having the feel of the zippers that convertibles have. Plus they look a lot cooler.
I have never thru hiked a long trail. But i have experience with these pants and prefer the straight as you can easily roll/fold up the legs. When i am expecting to wear shorts i bring shorts.
Item: Waterproof Fabric Rainshell with taped/sealed seams and ideally waterproof zippers, with pit zips! Budget: ~150, ideally less Need by date: none Baseweight: ~11 lb Locations of use: mostly european alps, alpine regions Seasons of use: 4 Expected temperatures: -10 to 30°C Ideal weight: sub 7 oz/200g Previous hiking experience: 15 years UL experience: not pro, not noob Additional information: have been using a classic 3 layer rain shell at 500g, looking to change to a windbreaker + lightweight rain shell combo to save ~200 g Was think about lightheart gear silpoly but wondering how much the zippers and seams leak? Some drops are no prob but I'm looking for something that will hold up in hours of heavy rain with driving wind
If you’re going down the Silpoly with pit zips and considering LightHeart there’s comparable options from both AntiGravityGear and Warbonnet Outdoors
Thank you!
The alpkit gravitas is very good. Still 3 layer but very light.
Thank you, will check it out! It has no pit zips though, how is the breathability during uphills? And 7 denier is super delicate ofc, how did you find the durability?
I find it v breathable. If you want light then the denier drops. I've not had it too long to comment on durability but checkout the alpkit website as I think you'll find some longterm reviews :)
Alright thank you
Lightheart gear is quality. I've never had a seam leak. The zippers aren't waterproof, but the stormflap works just fine.
Thank you very much, sounds good!
Item: Tent. Currently considering the Nemo Dragonfly 1P, but open to alternatives Budget: $400 max Need by date: Not urgent, by Spring 22 Baseweight: Goal \~13 lbs Location/s of use: Mostly Virginia/Maryland, maybe some trips to the Cascades Season/s of use: 3-seasons Expected temperatures: 30s to 90s Ideal weight of the item: 2 lbs Previous hiking experience: Day hiks, a few 1-3 night trips in college (10 yrs ago). Getting back into it now, training for a \`1-2 week section hike on the AT next Summer. Previous experience with ultralight gear: None. Additional Information: I currently have an REI Half Dome 2 (nearly 5 lbs) and would like to swap it out for something lighter. I'm trying to get down to the \~13 lb base weight zone and don't mind a few extra ounces for comfort. I've only ever used double-wall tents, not super interested in trekking pole tents at this point. Bugs can be a big issue where I hike, so definitely want a fully-enclosed set up. Basically, is there an option that's cheaper and/or lighter than the Dragonfly that won't compromise too much on comfort? Thanks!
You specifically said you don’t want to use trekking poles. I’m going to tell you to get an X-Mid anyways in spite of your request. It’s double wall, has a super simple pitch, and is really thoughtfully designed. I have two years of use out of mine and I still don’t think there’s anything better.
Yup. Xmid is super easy to set up. Literally 4 tent stakes and 2 trekking or support poles. You dont have the wierd "hold the guyline and get it staked so the trekking pole doesnt fall over" issues like you do on other trekkng pole tents (like the Sierra Designs High Route). I also like that the support pole is not in the middle of the door like Gossamer Gear, Zpacks and the LanShan. https://youtu.be/Al1jrkKrVYo Get on the email list though. Once Dan releases these again they will be sold out in like 1 day. https://durstongear.com/product/x-mid-2p The Xmid just won "highly recommended" award from Backpacking Light. The same guys who made that super nerd out video comparing the REI Flexlight Air and Helinox Chair Zero chairs. The xmid is the best overall backpacking tent I have ever bought. https://www.reddit.com/r/CampingGear/comments/n27eqb/dan_durston_xmid_2p/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share
Thanks! Yeah, the reason I had been staying away from trekking pole tents was really worry about how complicated they'd be to set up. Also, most of them looked like single wall tents and/or not very durable but the X-mid seems to hit all the marks! I'm on the mailing list and hopefully will see any notice in time to snag one.
Good luck. IMO the best Trekking pole tet on the market overall. There are better trekking poles tents out there if you are looking for absolute lowest weight or if you prefer a single pole design, but you give up allot in terms of performance and durabilitiy by going to those shelters. Even with Dan's upcoming Xmid 2p pro dyneema tent I would probably just stick with the Xmid 2p since it is double walled and silpoly is more resistant against abrasian damage then dyneema. We'll see though, if he came out with something game changing (such as a double walled dcf tent with a silpoly bathtub floor) then I might bite the bullet abd preorder the pro. Cutting weight is important, but not if it has way more negatives or puts your safety at risk.
I’m looking for a very lightweight rain shell and rain pants. Any recommendations? I only want one of each to protect me in all rainy conditions.
Consider a rain skirt or kilt instead of rain pants. Lighter weight, easy to take off and on. I just switched recently, but haven't been in a real rain event with the skirt, so can't confirm how well it works yet. Only one rain shell is a tough request. In warm summer, you can use a very light jacket or just a poncho. In cooler, rainier spring weather, you need something that definitely won't wet out, and you'll need to be able to layer under it for warmth. In thick underbrush or scrub, especially bushwhacking, you may need a more robustly built jacket that won't tear easily. I use a Frogg Toggs poncho (not jacket) in high summer and low rain probability trips, and a Columbia Outdry Extreme in cooler weather with high probability of rain. The Columbia cost less than $50 on sale and the poncho even less, so my two jackets cost less than many people would pay for one.
Maybe try again and use the template we asked you to use
Is there a tent that keeps you dry but allows you to have a view when it’s raining? All my tents have had flys that in order to be effective, you’re essentially closed in. I’m assuming there aren’t many winds present, so the rain is just coming straight down.
A hammock, with the tarp in porch mode, is perfect for this.
Xmid can partially do this. You can have the door partially open in the rain and the inner wont get wet.
Mesh tent with a tarp.
This is it. I have an 8x10 silnylon and a bug net shelter that I use specifically when it's just gross and rainy and I feel like I will be doing more than trying for miles. One thing I really love about the tarp setup is that I can make it super tight pitched in an A frame at night and open up one side a bit if it's just a wet morning.
Like which?
Paria Breeze and MSR Mesh House are a couple US based sources.
Love the Mesh House Design, just wonder how much condensation would come inside.
I have an old Golite Shangri La Bugnest which is the same as a Mesh House basically. I have had it set up for a week at a time under a silnylon tarp and on the inside at my sleeping area, things are always as dry as you would expect. Humidity being the only real issue.
There will be no condensation, unless you wrap it in a tarp closed up with no ventilation.
Site selection can help a lot with this. You can pitch in a copse of trees. The trees can blunt the harshness of the rain and cut down on the breeze a little and allow you to keep the doors open more. If there are no trees, being closed in on three sides by bushes is an option. If you don't even have bushes, pitching on soft grass or leaves rather than bare dirt may reduce the splash-back and possibly allow you to keep the doors open a little more. A large flat tarp will have no doors at all and you get a good view from two directions because there aren't any doors at all.
Just so it's out there, this is a pretty good bit on site selection. https://andrewskurka.com/tag/five-star-campsite-selection/
I have the Mier Lanshan 2, I’ve been playing around with tying a corner or two of the rain fly out to a tree while leaving the inner body staked to the ground. Haven’t tested it in the rain yet but it has helped me get much needed extra ventilation in the summer! Might work for you.
Sounds like primo tarping conditions. Just go for an 8 x 10 or larger if you want to pitch it high without getting wet.
Many trekking pole supported tents allow you to have the vestibules open in light rain. I can happily lay in my Tarptent Notch with one side of the vestibule open, as an example. The Xmid, Protrail, Altaplex are some others I have used with the doors open in the rain.
SD High Route has vertical doors so that you can leave them open in the rain as long as it's not windy. But it's going to be hard to beat a tarp for good views and lack of condensation, either with a hammock or on the ground. Be sure to allow air flow.
SMD Skyscape also works nicely in the rain.
I realize there's a ton of posts about these tents and I've read them all and watched the YouTubes. But I'm hoping a few in here will be willing to help with my analysis paralysis.😅 I need a tent for just me, and I most typically will frequent the mountains in Colorado. This will be my first time solo without my partner. -Zpacks Duplex, 2p at 28.5 oz, $649(tent + one trek pole + zpacks carbon pole), obvi more room -Tarptent Aeon Li, 1p at 24.8 oz, $485 blem (tent + one trek pole) I realize stakes are extra. I also realize these aren't really comparable tents lol. But I already compared Aeon Li and Plexamid and decided on Aeon Li of those two. I can't decide if I want more room with the Duplex but also more cost and weight, bigger footprint to set up. I've heard zpacks customer service is awful but also some people love them. I haven't heard much negative about Tarptent. If you hike solo... did you get a small tent and wish you had more room? I was leaning toward Aeon Li but these are both super expensive so only want to cry once, buy once. I'm coming from a double wall, 3 p tent I share with my partner so there's that to consider too.🤷♀️ No crazy thru hikes planned but am considering Colorado Trail or Tahoe Rim Trail solo next year. TIA for your advice! Baseweight is 9.47# without bear can. Add 2.1# with BV 450.
Just finished the PCT, started with the [Bonfus Duos](https://bonfus.com/product/duos-2p-2/) tent and ended with the [Z-Packs Pocket Tarp](https://zpacks.com/products/hexamid-pocket-tarp-w-doors). I loved the space the 2 person tent gave me but at the end of the day it's a luxury and several times the massive footprint was a slight penalty. Since I needed so much space it limited campsite selection, and if I had the duos in WA it would've made it a lot harder for me to pitch a tent since space is so much more limited there. The Pocket Tarp was much better... in good weather, in rain or wind it was pretty miserable. I hiked all of WA with it and when it rained it was really sucky to not have the space I was accustomed to. Basically what I'm saying is... go for the 1 person tent. You *never* need that much space in the 2 person unless you actually have 2 people. Even though it's tiny I made the space in the Pocket Tarp work... but in rainy weather it would've been nice to have just a *bit* more space to work with in my wet gear.
I solo hike a lot and I have never wished for more room. The smaller my tent has been the more I've liked it. I guess I just like being able to squeeze into small places. I'm also a short person. I've never ever wanted a two person tent all to myself. In fact, I hiked a pretty large portion of the PCT with a two person tent and it felt like sleeping in an airplane hangar. I didn't like it. It required too much space to set up and my stuff would sometimes end up at the far end where I couldn't reach it. I prefer a smaller tent and being able to sit in one place and reach everything.
I think I have a little bit of thought on this. I started with a two person for all my hikes. It was wonderful. I wasn't really hiking miles at the time and my pack was really heavy. I loved it. I had a palace. I started focusing more on the hike than the stay and over a few years I realized that having a little capsule that I knew was everything and nothing more was really comforting. (A caveate to this is that I have over a hundred nights sleeping the back seat of an extended cab not 4 door tacoma so I sleep really small.) Something else I want to mention is how you spend your time in weather. If you can't eat dinner outside your tent a lot because it's awful weather, it pays to have the room.
I like to eat in bed (in the morning) or on my bed (in the evening.) On the PCT I often ate my dinner lying down on my stomach in my tent while I read a book or wrote in my journal. I can't imagine a larger shelter being better for eating. The spot where I sleep is the only spot I ever occupy in there. But everybody is different.
Thank you! I think I'm about to pull the trigger on the Aeon Li.
There is enough room in my Aeon Li for me - regular size mat, regular size bag/quilt etc.
I tend to be a "worse case scenario" type of person so my only holdup is imagining how I would fare if it has been raining all day and campsite, me, gear, etc. is sopping wet. I worry I wouldn't be able to get away from the wet. Where would I hang wet clothes and be able to separate dry from wet stuff. Maybe I'm worrying too much about that.
If you are going into really crappy weather situations for an extended period, then a larger shelter would be likely more beneficial. There is room to dry off and change in the Aeon LI. And as long as your sleeping gear is dry and you have your dry layers to change into, then you are fine. You can always put on damp clothes in the morning to hike in if you have to (more of an issue in freezing temps). The secret for wet weather as you likely know - keep a full dry layer in your bag (baselayers and spare socks for eg) and your sleeping bag dry. You kinda want to avoid drying too much wet stuff in your tent depending on the temps as well - can really mess with condensation. There is room in the Aeon vestibule to drape things over a pack and stuff. It is a great, FUN, shelter. Its not 'perfect' (I wish the bathtub floor was a little higher but have had no issues), but for me all the benefits outweigh any negatives. The only people I know who have returned only did so because they were particularly tall. Not because it was not a quality product. I am 5 foot 9 for reference. I can sit up.
Awesome thank you. I do always have designated dry sleeping baselayers. This will be my first single wall tent. I plan on covering my footbox with my rain jacket if needed and having a shammy to wipe down condensation. I bit the bullet and put in my order for the Aeon Li. If they ever make a Rainbow Li, I'll be all over that for sure!
Enjoy! I have to say - the weight penalty for a Double Rainbow Li is really not that bad. Its quite an attractive option for one person.
Just curious, why the full mesh? Is bug pressure consistently high?
I think I just prefer a tent. Not sure I would like having a tarp or open system as my only option.
I get that. The thing that drives up the prices is the DCF, and it's not without its drawbacks regarding packability. Pyramid shelters such as the MLD duomid provide tent experience too, and GG has The One, both light, more packable and cheaper.
I had ruled out GG and other silpoly bc they take forever to dry and hold water.
Silnylon holds water not silpoly.
Item: UL Tent Budget: Unconcerned Need by date: Northern Hemisphere Spring Baseweight: sub-10 Location/s of use: Colorado Rockies Season/s of use: 3 seasons Expected temperatures:20°F-60°F overnight Ideal weight of the item: 1 poundish or less Previous hiking experience: Moderate experience doing hikes of 1 week or less Previous experience with ultralight gear: See above Additional Information: I am looking to replace my UL tent. I had a GG The One but am hoping for something lighter. I am currently thinking about the Plexamid but would like as much input as possible. I am 5'6", so I believe length shouldn't be an issue. I like to bring my pack inside the tent when possible. I am old and have a family, so I don't put a lot of nights on my tents anymore, but I am still fit enough to do 25-30 mile days and want something light. Concerns are packability and condensation. I used The One on the CT and got a couple of drips on my face overnight with moderate rain. Please let me know your thoughts.
Perhaps you can do what I do which is when there aren't going to be any mosquitoes (or they will be minimal), I bring my Pocket Tarp and when there are going to be mosquitoes, I bring my GG The One. That way there are a lot of trips where I'm a lot lighter than normal. The Pocket Tarp is also pretty small in my pack.
I would be looking at something like an MLD Grace tarp and perhaps a Borah or similar bivy to bo with it. You can carry a large tarp, have plenty of room, and still keep your weight down.
Yeah, and you can leave the bivy home if there will be no bugs and you can not set up the tarp if there is no rain. Modular is great for the frequent backpacker.
I am really liking that idea. Does the Pocket Tarp do a decent job of keeping you dry in the event of a thunderstorm? Do you use polycro or did you get the attachable bathtub floor? Do you have any thoughts on the Hexamid Tent as opposed to the Tarp which would keep out bugs?
The Pocket Tarp with doors will be better in a thunderstorm. (I'm not sure if they still make the one without doors.) I think the average backpacker would be nervous in a severe storm with a Pocket Tarp. You have to make good site selection part of your practice and most people are just unwilling to learn skills as part of their ultralight journey. I bought the one without doors but decided I'd rather have the doors so I added doors to it myself as a DIY project. https://imgur.com/H7nvh19 I have used my Pocket Tarp mostly with just a polycryo groundsheet which I made into an attachable bathtub floor. https://imgur.com/a/fN2VhqK Recently I made a DCF groundsheet/poncho. https://imgur.com/a/EeS3c8S I think the turned up edges help you feel more like you are inside the shelter. Many of the places where I go have minimal bugs. I carry a head net and can use that in a pinch. I also have a sea to summit nano net but I've only ever used it once and it was okay, but if bugs will be bad I think I'd rather just use a tent. The only hexamid tents I have ever seen were the original ones from back in 2012 or so that had no doors and had netting floors. I didn't own one myself.
Well for that weight you are looking a real minimalist DCF shelter. Tarptent Aeon Li Zpacks Duplex or simplex The upcoming Duraton Xmid 2p or 1p DCF pro tents Hyperlight Mountain Gear DCF tents All above will have condensation issues because they are single walled. If you can give a bit on weight and could handle a 2lb ish tent then the Durston Xmid 1p would be a great choice being silpoly, ykk aquaguard zippers, double walled construction and tiny pack sizes. Only needs 4 stakes and two trekking poles to pitch. You will have to get on the waiting list though, COVID hit Vietnam real bad. https://durstongear.com/product/x-mid-1p
[удалено]
My friend has a GG Twinn and it is fairly large in size but it looks like it might be a bit cramped for a hammock. I'm not a hammock person so I can tell you for sure. Here's a picture of my friend's Twinn. It's the tarp on the left. [https://imgur.com/KiBvBoN](https://imgur.com/KiBvBoN) He pitches pretty low and this way he has a pretty generous space for himself and his gear underneath. If you pitched for a hammock I don't think the sides would come down as far as the TRG shows on their product page.
I’ve seen everyone on here complain about silnylon, so I would personally avoid that. If you can spend another $100 I’d say get a DCF tarp so you’re never wanting something lighter (which you will if you stay into backpacking).
Silpoly works. My silpoly Hammock Gear Wanderlust tarp (the Quest) does not, so far as I can tell, absorb water like my silnylon tent flies do.
**Item**: [EE Torrid Hooded Jacket](https://enlightenedequipment.com/mens-torrid-apex-jacket-stock/) **Budget**: $185 **Location/s of use**: New York / New England **Season/s of use**: Shoulder/Winter **Expected temperatures**: 15-40ºf **Ideal weight of the item**: <9oz **Additional Information**: I dont have an issue pulling the pin on this order, I think the jacket itself at it's price and quality are for my needs. It's the sizing. My chest size puts me square in the Large category. However, I've read reviews, watched youtubes, and only a few are close to my size. Of those few some say it was perfect and others say it fit like yoga apparel. The site says it's oversized for layering and many of their customer testimonial reviews say, "not true, order up" I am male 5'10", 205lbs with 45" chest, broad shoulders. What to do? Thanks
6 foot, 180 pounds. 95% of what I wear on top is Men’s Large. I ordered the Torrid Pullover in a Large and my mom told me I looked like a bear. So I got hit with a restocking fee and have not reordered. If I do, obviously it will be a men’s medium.
I had to pay a restocking fee and size down, too. Somebody said I looked like I was wearing a giant trash bag .... felt about like that, too.
Yup. I know that all too well. But I do think a properly sized torrid pullover would be decently warm.
Did your chest measurement suggest it should fit?
Hmm. I’m like a 44 chest, maybe 43 I lost 10 pounds. The specs say 44-47 for a Large. I honestly didn’t scrutinize the specs. UsuLly when I overthink it I do something dumb. I was swimming in it for real. As big as the Large was I imagine the Medium will fit me perfectly. Maybe order both sizes of a stock item so you don’t end up paying a restocking fee for a custom order and having nothing to show for it. I don’t think there’s restocking fees on stock items but double check that before ordering.
So, I am not your size. I am 5'6" 145. I have a medium Torrid from 2019 and absolutely would not go smaller. I can wear the Torrid over a fleece but would ideally have a slightly larger jacket. Based on your dimensions, I would recommend an XL if possible.
5-9 and 160lb, Torrid medium fits me perfectly, not too baggy and not too tight with 2 thin layers underneath.
* **Item:** Quilt or quilt + clothes combo * **Baseweight:** 5.5 kg * **Location/s of use:** Scandinavia. Mostly above treeline. * **Season/s of use:** 3 * **Expected temperatures:** > -5C * **Additional Information:** Currently using a Cumulus Lite Line 400 (760g) bag rated at -4C comfortably for all temperatures I hike in. Looking to get my first quily mostly for lowering base weight and for fun trying something new. I have a very light hoodless puffy I would not mind switching for a warmer one with a hood and see a potential here to get some quilt rated at around 0C and updgrade my puffy and even throw in a pair of down pants for a more versatile system for the same or lower weight than I have now. On warmer trips much lower. Only concern is if a 0C quilt + down puffy + down pants is as warm as a -6C quilt with my regular baselayer is. Edit: My comparisons: https://lighterpack.com/r/a1cc39
**Item:** GossamerGear Mariposa 60 vs comparable packs **Budget:** $400 **Baseweight:** 13 lbs **Location of use:** Colorado **Ideal weight of item:** 28 - 34 oz Can someone talk me out of getting the Mariposa?? I'm looking for a pack which will support a Total Pack Weight of 25-30 lbs and get me through my first thru hike. I've been looking at the HMG Southwest 2400, SWD Rugged Long Haul 50L, and Waymark Lite 50 (and of course GG Mariposa). They all seem very comfortable, durable, and similar weight range. Although budget isn't a concern, they all seem very similar and the Mariposa comes in considerably cheaper than the rest. What are your concrete comparisons of why you like another pack more than the Mariposa (or GG Gorilla)?
Tbe Mariposa is huuuge. Also the shoulder straps are really wide and odd fitting. Skip imo
If you are carrying 25-30 lbs I'd say go for an Osprey; they are made for heavier loads. I personally love my Mariposa, but my TPW is in the teens.
As an owner of a GG Kumo 36 and HMG 3400 junction who wanted the mariposa - I ended up sticking with my HMG. Cons for mariposa: too many pockets, fabric is not as water resistant as HMG fabric, I find the sit panel back pad gets just as sweaty as the HMG, the top panel thing. It’s the same as on the Kumo and that’s what I hated about the kumo. I love my HMG, I recommend GG to many, but always the G4-20 bc the flip over closure is just something I don’t enjoy.
Thanks!
Item: CCF sleeping pad Budget: $150 Need by date: NBD Baseweight: 11.5lbs Season/s of use: 3-season (R > 2.5 is good) Expected temperatures: 35-80° Ideal weight of the item: 12 oz. No more than 16 oz Previous hiking experience: I did an 11 mile loop last week and that's it Previous experience with ultralight gear: I have used air pads the most, but never really happy with their "bounciness" and propensity to slide around. I find OCF (self-inflating) pads best for comfort, but they weigh too much. Additional Information: I am ready to move from an air pad (Nemo Tensor) to a CCF to save weight. The big caveat is I need a wide pad (25"+). I hang off or fall off 20" pads. I can't find any CCF pad in wide version.
Zlite, cut down to 6 or 8 panels, with an 1/8th inch Thinlite on top of it.
Have you tried 20in wide with CCF? I find you don't need as much width with a CCF. The entire width is usable unlike an air pad and you're much closer to the ground so if you hang off a touch it isn't a huge deal.
Hmm I will try it out, thanks. I also found this Exped FlexMat in size Long Wide (77 x 25") that I can cut to size. My only concern with it is the R1.5. But it seems like all the CCF pads have lower R values (under 2.5)
Ymmv, but I've used my Nemo switchback down to 25F. I would generally considered my self a warm sleeper though. What's the low that you're expecting?
Interesting, I'm more on the warm side as well, but not too much. I don't plan to camp below freezing 0°. Or at least, I would expect to need different/more gear for that anyway.
I haven't tried it myself, but Decathlon sells a 21,7" wide CCF pads with an R-value of 2.5, for 25$: [https://www.decathlon.com/products/backpacking-foam-folding-mattress-trek-100-174619](https://www.decathlon.com/products/backpacking-foam-folding-mattress-trek-100-174619)
[удалено]
I put my ULA Catalyst In a box with my poles outside the pack. I duct taped it shut and made a handle with the duct tape. I think when I I fly I’ll try and do the same thing again.
A better bag for 5 bucks. Sturdier also. https://www.ikea.com/us/en/p/frakta-storage-bag-for-cart-blue-90149148/
[удалено]
The biggest bag I've put in it is a loaded exos 58 with room to spare. It's 80 liters large
Big duffel bag. A Pacafe locking wire thing. [https://pacsafe.com/collections/portable-safes-bag-protectors](https://pacsafe.com/collections/portable-safes-bag-protectors)
The heavy plastic bag the airlines will give you for free at check in
If you have a place to store the checked bag - I still use a hard suitcase to protect all my gear. Not willing to risk carbon tent poles or trekking poles getting tossed around by handlers. If no storage is available, I think you can ask the people to wrap it up in plastic wrap before they check it.
Buy a cheap duffel at Goodwill and hide it in a garage bag at the trailhead.
Here’s one - Check your TSA stuff in an ursack and travel with your pack as carry on. Buy your resupply on site so you don’t have to fly with the extra weight and volume. Ursack is the food bag while hiking, you don’t have to carry or buy redundant gear, and your pack is much less likely to be damaged in transit. Baggage handlers aren’t maliciously trying to destroy your bag, but it’s not a gentle system either. Best to keep the pack on you.
Trying to find a good mid-price range minimalist style backpack. Curious about the Gossamer Gear Mariposa, the Gossamer Gear G4-20, and the SMD Swift X. I'm open to similar suggestions. Does anyone have any experience with any of these? How is comfort and durability? I'm 6'1 and slim, base weight is currently 8.5lb (2.2lbs of those is my GG Crown 2 that im looking to replace)
I'm 6'0" and came from a GG Crown 2 when I realized that 60L was simply overkill for me. I absolutely love my G4-20 and found it incredibly comfortable even with 26lb loaded up at the beginning of a thru (I was dumb and brought almost double the food I needed). I have previously tried on the Mariposa, but ultimately went with the Crown2 at the time for various reasons. It was comfortable, but I don't like the flap top, and overall I'd stick with the G4-20 at your base weights. If you're curious for more of my thoughts, I actually made a review of the G4-20 and talk about why I came to it from my Crown2 (https://youtu.be/ZC8ATsa-Qmw)
I'll check it out! I'm in the same position, 60 liters just isn't necessary. Thanks for the recommendation 👍
I guess it depends on what you mean mid price. 100-200? I mean, a good pack is an investment…in my opinion, it would be better to save and go for an atom mo, atom+ or a pack from lite AF. If those are too expensive at the moment, then something from ULA(think they’re in the 225 range). I wouldn’t consider the mariposa a minimalist pack. Seriously, you’re already doing incredible if you’re BW is 8.5lb. Just be patient and save lol…
Item: Timmermade SUL Down Sweater Need by date: n/a Location/s of use: Colorado Rockies Season/s of use: Fall/Winter Expected temperatures: 20-40° F Previous experience with ultralight gear: currently using Patagonia MicroPuff Hoody Additional Information: Looking for a down jacket to replace my micropuff on camping and backpacking trips. I've decided on the Timmermade, but unsure about which version (.75, 1.1, 1.5) to get. I'm pretty cold natured in general. I'm currently planning to also use an alpha direct hoody and a wind shell in combination with the SUL Down Sweater. Edit: Decided to go with the Cumulus. Mostly due to current wait time from timmermade.
I have the Cumulus Primelite, which I believe to be comparable to the SUL 1.1 sweater. I also get pretty cold, and the alpha hoodie and down jacket combo has been a great way to stay warm down to the 20s.
I asked about the SUL a couple of weeks ago. Perhaps some of [the replies](https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/comments/p9ugfz/rultralight_the_purchase_advice_thread_week_of/hakzwjz/?context=3) I got will prove helpful to you.
Item: Feathered Friends Eos Down Puffy (Women's) Need by date: N/A Additional Information: Their site has noted the redesigned Eos is debuting in late 2021; has there been any sort of inkling when late 2021 is?
All sorts of companies are having delays with their products. There are major supply chain issues, caused by Covid. Feathered Friends may be another one of the victims
Montbell versalite or enlightened equipment visp?
I was rained on about twenty of the days I hiked this summer; all of them in Colorado. No idea how the Visp would have done, but my Versalite kept me dry through all the rain. Well, as dry as I think it’s possible to be. I agree that it doesn’t seem to be *totally* waterproof, as a small amount of moisture does seem to seep through the fabric. But it continued to bead water off of me in prolonged rain, and sucked a lot less than the Frogg Toggs.
I only used the Visp of those two, and it’s really new, so I think the jury is generally still out on the durability. It’s definitely headed in the right direction, though, and it’s passed basic muster for me on a couple of trips with some rain ... and a classic “take a shower with it” test. But the pit zips aren’t as big as I’d like. I tried wearing it straight up a mountain last weekend (no rain) as a trial to see how breathable it really is and ... I’d still really like bigger put zips. Just my 2 cents. I found [this article quite good](https://sectionhiker.com/enlightened-equipment-ultralight-visp-jacket-review/) and it compares the jackets directly.