Footwear: Go Light, Go Longer.

With the amount and variety of hiking gear available, sometimes choosing the right equipment can be a daunting task. We spend countless hours on the web comparing gear and prices, and reading reviews to find the perfect pack or sleeping bag or shelter. The options are limitless. Do we want an internal or external framed pack? Do we need a frame at all? What size? How many liters? What about a shelter? Should I buy a freestanding double-walled tent, or go with something lighter I have to stake out like a tarp? Do I need the footprint? What about bivy sacks and hammocks? I need a sleeping bag too. Should I buy down or synthetic? What about the temperature rating? Does it need to be water resistant? Should I get a quilt instead? 

The questions are many, and finding the answer that works for you can take a ton of research. 

When it comes to footwear however, that process is often times ignored. We already know what footwear we need, no doubt imbedded into our sub-consciousness from years on the trail… 

We need boots. Heavy high-topped leather boots with great traction, ankle support, and a Gortex membrane to keep our feet dry. Since we already know we need boots, buying them is much simpler. We walk into the outfitter and try some on. We pace around the shoe department and maybe make a few laps up and down the stairs. When one pair stands out above the rest as the most comfortable (or least uncomfortable), we fork over a couple hundred bucks and walk out the door. Done deal right? 

Not so much. 

Our feet hurt, and blisters are forming on our heels and toes. Instead of admitting defeat in our choice of footwear, we spend more time and money treating the symptoms. We buy expensive insoles. We use sock-liners, or better yet we double-up on heavy merino-wool socks. We apply moleskin at the start of the hike in the spots we’re blister prone. We take our boots off on breaks, and sometimes even stop mid-hike to change socks. We carry an extra pair of shoes so we can ditch the boots the moment we reach camp because our feet are screaming. In extreme cases we might take our boots back to the outfitter… and exchange them for other boots. I’ve seen it. I’ve done it. I’ve been there. 

This is the way of the hiker; blisters, foot pain, and miserably sweaty feet… But it doesn’t have to be. There exists an effective yet simple alternative... 

Shoes. More and more, hiking shoes and trail runners are replacing boots as the footwear of choice for hikers. 

Most of the time when choosing new gear, weight is a prime consideration (if not, it should be). Even though our backpack is designed to carry 50 pounds, that doesn’t mean we want it to. We are all acutely aware of the pain inducing affects a heavy pack can have on the body… But what if I told you that weight on the feet is actually worse for you than weight on the back? You’ve probably heard the adage that 1 pound on your foot can equal 5 on your back. Well, in terms of energy expenditure, it’s basically true. A US Army study concluded that walking with one pound on the foot expends the same amount of energy as carrying 6 pounds on the back. When you realize that boots can weigh 2, 3, or even 4 pounds, that’s a ton of energy your body is needlessly burning with every step, and fatigue will come much quicker. In The Backpackers Handbook world re-known long distance hiker Chris Townsend writes, “That lighter footwear is less tiring seems indisputable.” 

Shoes aren’t only lighter, they are more comfortable. Thinner synthetic construction and an abundance of mesh ensure good airflow, reducing moisture and the chance of blistering. Flexible soles give your feet the freedom to move naturally, instead of being stuck in the same position for miles on end. The result is that your feet are comfortable longer, making those long hikes more doable than you ever thought. Again, Townsend writes that heavy boots, “make my feet ache after about 12 miles, and after 15 miles all I want to do is stop. Yet in running shoes I can cover twice the distance before my feet complain.” I had a similar experience. On a 12 mile day, hiking fast to beat the darkness, my feet were killing me in my boots. Every step was agony. The pain was so bad I just wanted to quit. I bought a pair of trail runners the next week. Later that summer on a 50 mile mountain trek in central Idaho I hiked faster, with no pain or blisters, all while carrying a much heavier load. I was sold. 

In my experience, the most common reason people say they prefer boots is the need for ankle support. It stands to reason that the rigid boot construction would provide more stability for the foot, and minimize the risk of ankle injury. I however have noticed a dramatic decrease in the amount of ankle problems since I switched to shoes. This is because I step more carefully in shoes, knowing my feet are potentially more vulnerable to slipping, sharp rocks, and other trail hazards. Indeed, it is this lack of protection that is the real trade-off. 

It all comes down to personal preference, and what your specific needs are on a given trip. I find boots still my footwear of choice hiking in snow, or multiple days of rain. The prevailing theory among shoe enthusiasts is that trail runners dry so quickly that getting them (and by default your feet) wet is not something to avoid, which is fine for a stream crossing on a sunny day, but if the forecast for your weekend trip is calling for non-stop rain, then you probably don’t want to spend that time with soaked feet. Like with any gear purchase, do your homework. There are many options between trail runners and heavy leather boots. Brands like Merrell, Keen, and Salomon offer shoes with the benefits of both: low-profile, synthetic materials, plenty of mesh, Vibram soles, and even Gortex. Again, do your research. There are tons of resources online, and lots of great books written by people with thousands of trail miles under their belts. Before you buy don’t forget to stop at your local outfitter and try some on. Pace around the shoe department, and maybe make a few laps up and down the stairs…

This article was modified from a story published a few years ago on the now defunct Mountain Blog. All the work is mine.

Why Wool: The Extraordinary Properties of Merino Wool

Wool in my collection.

Imagine yourself a primitive man, stone tipped spear in hand, slogging through the rain of prehistoric Britain on the hunt... Fast forward a few thousand years. You're a Roman Legionary, marching north toward the snowcapped Alps to meet the barbarian hordes at the empire's edge... Now it’s January 1915, and you along with the rest of your brave crew of explorers are stranded on a vast ice-flow in the Antarctic, after your ship froze solid and sank... At last its 2017 and you're a backpacker on the PCT, braving the High Sierra despite the earlier-than-expected snowfall, and warnings from other hikers to turn around.

What do all these seemingly unrelated scenarios throughout history have in common?

Wool, the super-fabric spun from the fleece of sheep (and other animals) that has been keeping humans warm in the outdoors since the Stone Age. It is a fabric both ancient and advanced, as no man-made synthetic material yet has been able to duplicate all of wool's extraordinary properties. Indeed, wool has been the fabric of choice for military's, explorers, adventurers, and outdoorsmen since ancient times. 

If you’re out of the loop, you might associate wool with childhood memories of itchy socks or smelly old army blankets. I'm here to tell you that today’s Merino wool garments are the crème-dela-crème of next–to-skin comfort. Merino are a breed of sheep prized for their fine wool, which is considered the softest in the world. But its more than just soft. Merino wool is both water resistant and water absorbing, and will retain its insulating properties when wet. It’s flexible, durable, and stain resistant. It’s antibacterial, anti-microbial, and hypoallergenic. It’s a flame retardant and provides protection from UV rays. I know, it sounds like some super space age material that might be used for the construction of rocket ships, but I assure you, I'm talking about all-natural wool that comes from some extremely stalwart mountain dwelling animals. 

It starts with the impressive, but complex nature of the wool fiber itself. The crimped shape of the fibers creates millions of air pockets when packed together, which trap heat escaping from the body, significantly reducing convection. The fibers are so durable that folding or compressing them will not affect the pockets of air, so the insulating property works equally well whether you're hunkered down in the tent or making a bid for the summit. 

What really makes wool such an amazing fiber is its ability to manage moisture. The naturally hygroscopic fibers absorb 30% percent of their own weight in moisture (10 times more than any synthetic) without feeling damp. So, when you sweat, the moisture from your skin is absorbed into the wool, and pulled to the surface where it evaporates, keeping a dry layer of air next to the skin. Since evaporation of perspiration is how the body naturally cools, the process works to keep you warm in cold conditions, and cool in warm conditions, making wool an ideal fabric for any environment. Studies have shown that just sleeping with a wool blanket can significantly lower the next-to-skin humidity 71% of the time. This incredible quality also allows wool to retain its insulating properties when wet. One study showed that a merino wool garment can absorb 60% of its weight in water before it feels wet.

Bottom of the Grand Canyon in a wool shirt.

Another benefit of wool's water absorbing super power is something called “the heat of sorption”. In this process absorbed moisture in cold conditions release stored energy in the wool fabric that generates heat. One source suggests that just a single kilogram of Merino wool generates heat of sorption “equivalent to the output from an electric blanket over eight hours”.

All this means that wool is not only superior at moisture management, it also excels at thermal regulation. Your core temperature won’t fluctuate as much. You won’t overheat, and you'll sweat less. Another study by the University of Otago in New Zealand concluded that when compared to other fabrics “Merino wool was better at minimizing body regulatory fluctuations which may result from changes in exertion or the environment. Wearing Merino wool fabric appears to lead to generally lesser physiological stress during exercise in both hot and cold conditions.”

Wool fibers also contain a natural wax called lanolin that is excreted by sheep through the skin as a water repellent. Lanolin not only helps you stay dry, it has natural antibacterial and anti-fungus properties as well. The absorption of wool, combined with the benefits of lanolin, and the fact that bacteria has difficulty growing on the scaly wool fiber itself, means that your Merino wool garments will remain odor free even after extended use.

Did I mention wool was a flame retardant? Because so much water can be absorbed into the fabric, wool will not catch fire easily, and is self-extinguishing when it does, which means you won’t burn a hole in your shirt if you get tagged by an ember standing by the fire. Wool can also can protect you from dangerous ultraviolet rays. Studies of 236 clothing textiles from the University of Bochum in Germany found wool to be the only fabric to pass European standards for UV protective clothing.

No doubt wool is an incredible fabric, and the reason humans have been using it so long is obvious. In today's outdoor world, Merino wool clothing remains the ideal choice for next-to-skin layers. In quality Merino wool garments, the comfort and performance are second to none, but beware: Merino wool is easily mixed with other fabrics. An item claiming to be made from Merino wool might only be 50% Merino in actuality. Often times these garments will be mixed with a synthetic and claim to possess the benefits of both. Just read the fine print, shop smart, and trust your name brands. It’s not a coincidence that brands like Smartwool and Icebreaker sit at the top of the Merino wool food-chain. They know their wool!

Perfect conditions for wool active-wear.

Disclaimer - The article is my original work. It first appeared in The Mountain Blog in a 2013 article called "Wool the Super Fabric". Recently when I tried to reference the article I could not locate it online. It in fact appears as if The Mountain Blog is now defunct, as I could not find any reference or mention of it on Mountain Gear's website. I decided to reprint the article here with minor changes as a reference for people searching for this information.  

Gear Review: Haeleum - Darian Camouflage Shirt

First light on Porcupine Flat

The Dirt:

Haeleum - Darian | Mossy Oak® Camoflauge Shirt

What is it? High tech hunting/hiking t-shirt

Fabric: 100% DryTru polyester

Technologies:

Sun Protection: UPF 50+

Bug Repellent: Insect Shield® 

Moisture Wicking

Quick Dry

Anti-microbial.

Price: $36.99 at Haeleum.com

The Darian shirt by Haeleum is a high-tech piece of outdoor apparel with excellent versatility and an affordable price tag. While moisture wicking and quick drying fabrics are virtually the norm in performance t-shirts, adding anti-microbial, sun protection and bug repellent properties make this a truly unique piece.  

Over the last two months I've worn this shirt hiking and hunting all over the great state of Oregon. The Darian is soft and comfortable, and still looks new after a dozen washes. For me, the torso fit is perfect, but the arms are cut too short. I wear a large, and as far as I know my arms aren't unusually long. The Darian's sleeves stop well before my wrist bone, which results in me rolling them up when worn as a standalone piece.

The Darian really shines in the sun. Under a scathing September sun for three days on an early season bow-hunt in Central Oregon, I returned to camp every night dry. Credit the DryTru polyester fabric. I hate carrying sunblock and I hate wearing it even more. A 50+ UPF rating means that I'm protected, even in the hottest conditions.

Late in September I wore the Darian everyday for five days straight. All day long slogging up sloppy  mountainsides and bushwhacking through dense drainages. After some big climbs and big sweats, I never felt cold or wet. The shirt performed flawlessly. It dried quickly and always felt new. Even at the end of the trip. The shirt was wrinkle free and didn't stink. I could have wore it for another five days.

Insect repellent clothing is always in demand, but in late summer and fall in central Oregon, insects are simply not a problem. It was the only property of this shirt that I couldn't test. However, having a disdain for insect repellent sprays nearly equal to that of sunscreen, I have used Insect Shield® clothing in the past during the height of mosquito season and found it highly effective. Combined with the UPF rating, you're looking at a seriously protective shirt.

Overall I am absolutely impressed with this shirt. If you picked up a comparable shirt at any major outdoor retailer you could spend upwards of $100. That's the real beauty of it. The $36.99 price-tag is unbeatable. I would like to see a camouflage pattern more applicable to west coast hunting, but this isn't just a hunting shirt. I would recommend it for any year-round outdoor activity. Especially for those who carry less but expect more from their gear. The Darian shirt can do it all. 

In the high Cascades.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the Darian Camouflage Shirt for free from Haeleum in consideration for a gear review.

Gear Review: NEMO Blaze 2

The Dirt:

NEMO Blaze 2 

What is it? Two person ultralight backpacking tent

Double Walled: Yes

Freestanding: No

Comes with: Tent, fly, stakes and guyline.

Weight: 2 Ibs. (minimum trail weight)

Size: Floor 85"x 50". Height 40". Area 30 square feet.

Materials: Mesh. Floor 15D ripstop sil/PU Nylon. Fly and vestibule 10D sil/PU.

Price: 479.95 at NEMO.com

The NEMO Blaze 2 is a spacious, two person, double-walled, ultralight tent that separates itself from the pack with sheer livability. Unlike almost all other two person double-walled tents (that I know of) at 2 pounds or below, the Blaze 2 has two doors and a true dome design, bucking the current trend for tents in this category like the ever popular Big Agnes Fly Creek 2 with the single door teardrop shape. The Blaze 2 is a true ultralight double-doored dome.

In Three Sisters Wilderness

NEMO accomplished this light weight dome very simply. They eliminated one pole of the classic 2-cross pole design. Yes, the Blaze has only one structural pole that runs from one corner to its opposite, and as such is NOT freestanding. They also added a small center pole that stretches the width of the tent and connects the top of both doors. This allows for vertical side walls and gives the Blaze its unparalleled livability. It also makes for a goofy looking pitch. As you can see from the photo below, the corners absent pole-to-ground contact are raised off the ground pretty significantly. I've  pitched this tent dozens of times and so far have not found a solution, however, I have not seen any drawback created by it. Lastly, the other big change from the run-of-the-mill is the shortened rainfly, which relies on the higher bathtub floor on both ends to keep out rain.

Without the fly. Note the corners,

All these innovations may seem daunting to the traditionalist, but after over a year of regular use I'm impressed. It packs so small. I don't feel guilty taking it on solo trips when the expected weather scares me away from my tarp. When I'm backpacking with my girlfriend, who doesn't do minimalist, the weight is a non-issue. We don't have to split anything up, and she's happy in camp. She's happy with the inside space and she loves having her own door. Let's face it, most 2-person backpacking tents are small, but the ultralight versions are coffins. Some ultralight 2-person tents have no business calling their tent "two person". The NEMO Blaze is not one of those tents. It's made for two, no doubt.

The Blaze can handle the weather too. I've had it in wind on Mt. Lemon, and rain in the Oregon Badlands. It's sturdy and watertight. My only real gripe is the color. I know that sounds weird but hear me out. Bright yellow attracts bees! No joke. It's like they think it's a giant California Poppy or something. If bees are around, they will come when you pitch this tent. Not that big of a deal unless you're allergic, or tenting in Africanized bee territory, like the Sanoron Desert... But then again, if you're in the Sanoron Desert, why are you pitching the fly anyway?

In the Badlands

Overall, I'm super stoked on the Blaze 2. If you want a comfortable, ultralight tent for two, this is your tent. It's got all the conveniences of heavier tents in such a small, light package. I would recommend it particularly if you are actually backpacking with a partner and don't want to trade comfort for weight. It's also perfect for the backpacker who only wants one tent for everything. It's roomy enough for two but light enough for one. It's sturdy and dependable, and the quality is typical NEMO top-notch. The biggest drawback is that you might have to sell a kidney to pay for one.

Budget Gear Review: Kangaroo Outdoors Rocky Mountain Trekker

Rocky Mountain Trekker in the wilderness

The Dirt:

Kangaroo Outdoors Rocky Mountain Trekker 

What is it? Mummy style backpacking sleeping bag.

Comes with: Sleeping bag, compression stuff sack.

Weight: 3.1 pounds (in stuff sack)

Temp Rating: 32 degrees Fahrenheit

EN Rating: No

Materials: Rip-stop nylon

Insulation: Synthetic
.

Price: 36.77 on Amazon

The Rocky Mountain Trekker is a budget friendly lightweight mummy bag for 3-season backpacking. I was contacted by someone from Kangaroo Outdoors to write this review, and I have to say that Kangaroo Outdoors, the company, is a bit of a mystery. They don't have a website, and as far as I can tell, the only product they make is this sleeping bag. Regardless, the product description on Amazon assures us that "Kangaroo Outdoors is committed to bringing you only the highest quality outdoor gear. We design and test all of our items in the high Rockies of Colorado." Due to the lack of information on Kangaroo Outdoors and the Rocky Mountain Trekker online, this review will be entirely what I've observed through use.

Pulling it from the box, the first thing I notice is the size. In the provided compression sack, it packs pretty small. Without the compression sack however, it's bulky. In fact, I had trouble stuffing it in a 50 liter backpack on a recent outing. The weight isn't bad either.... for the price. Granted, today's higher end 30-degree down bags barely bust the 1 pound mark, but they are hundreds of dollars. At around 40 bucks, 3 pounds is pretty damn good, and certainly an acceptable weight for most weekend backpackers. On short trips, the weight is barely noticeable. And that's really what the Rocky Mountain Trekker is for, short trips for casual backpackers who don't want to break the bank.

The concern with buying a budget bag is always materials and craftsmanship. Kangaroo Outdoors lists the bag material as rip-stop nylon, but doesn't list a grade. Insulation type is synthetic, but doesn't say what kind. The truth is that the materials make it feel like a forty dollar sleeping bag. But it performs. On multiple backpacking trips when the temperature flirted with freezing, I always stayed warm. Granted, I was wearing baselayers and using a bag liner, but I always do, even with my Marmot and Nemo bags. On breezy, chilly, rainy nights, The Rocky Mountain Trekker continued to surprise me. Even when a chill crept in, I was able to cinch the hood and draft tubes to effectively trap my heat in. This bag does not have a European Norm rating, but the claimed 32 degree comfort rating seems pretty darn accurate.

Rocky Mountain Trekker

Like budget bags I've owned in the past, the biggest problem I had was the zipper. It didn't completely burst open like my last budget bag did, but I fought with it in the night, every night. For starters, snagging was an issue. I found completely zipping up the bag was a challenge and a chore. Even more annoying was the tendency for the zipper to unzip itself during the night. Strangely, pressure on the underside of the zipper would cause it retract. As a result, unless I had the zipper completely up and secured with the Velcro strap, it would retract during the night and I would wake up exposed. 

Overall, The Rocky Mountain Trekker is a solid 3-season bag with an affordable price tag. I would recommend it for new backpackers or anyone who can't afford a name-brand bag. For the experienced or constant backpacker, I would give it a look only if money is a serious concern for you. Otherwise, it would make a good loaner or backup. Durability may be an issue. After all, I don't know anything about materials or manufacturing. I couldn't find any warranty information from Kangaroo Outdoors either. But then again. it's only a 40 dollar bag.

Disclaimer: I was given this sleeping bag for the purposes of a review by Kangaroo Outdoors at no cost to myself. The opinions and conclusions reached are strictly my own.

Budget Gear Review: Etekcity Backpacking Stove

Etekcity Backpacking stove at Mt. Lemmon, AZ

The Dirt:

Etekcity Backpacking Sove

What is it? Canister style backpacking stove

Fuel Type: Isopro

Comes with: Stove, plastic case, attached Piezo ignition

Weight: 4.8 oz.

Size: 3.5 X 1.8 X 2.3 inches

Materials: Stainless steel and aluminum

Price: 9.99 at Amazon

The Etekcity Backpacking stove is a lightweight canister stove that sells for a ridiculously low price on Amazon. In fact, that's why I'm writing this review... Let me explain. Just over a year ago, a customer came to my store looking for a backpacking stove. After I gave him a brief explanation of the stoves we carry and the differences between them, I recommended the MSR PocketRocket. He stared at the price-tag looking perturbed for a moment, then looked at me quizzically and asked, "Why should I spend $40 on this stove when I can get one on Amazon for $10?" I didn't know how to respond at the time since I had no idea which stove he was talking about. Instead I just mumbled something about brand name, materials and construction. Feeling ignorant and unprepared, I went home that night, and in the Amazon search bar typed, "ten dollar backpacking stove," and promptly purchased the first stove on the list, the Etekcity Backpacking Stove. I would have an answer the next time a customer asked me that question.

Palm of my hand

Out of the box, the first thing that struck me was the size. Indeed, the Etekcity stove is smaller than the vast majority of canister stoves on the market. Credit the stowable pot support arms that fold down and swivel around the stove to stack on top of each other like a deck of cards. It makes for a small, very portable package. The drawback with that portability is all those joints and swivels add weight. 4.8 ounces (believe it or not) is heavier than most name brand stoves in the same class. But for ten bucks, who can complain about an ounce or two? 

The biggest problem I have with stowable arms is durability. Simply put, the more complex the device, the larger the chance the device will fail. In fact, the first time I used the stove one of the arms jammed. I couldn't get it folded without a lot of force, which, in freezing temps hurt my fingers like a SOB. It turned out that the upper portion of one of the arms bent, which prevented it from folding along the joint. It's not just the arms either. This stove feels fragile. Arms bend too easy. The Piezo ignition switch feels like it's barely on. Luckily it comes with a case. You'll need it to protect the stove while backpacking.

Top of the arms fold in to make for easy stowing.

In ideal conditions the Etekcity stove performs as well as any canister stove in its class. On warm days with no wind It routinely made 3 minute boil times. When conditions aren't ideal however is when this stove really falls short. Usually I don't put too much credence in boil times. I often ask people "what's the hurry?" There are instances however where getting an early start is imperative, and in such cases a fast boil time is important. Case in point: Last winter hunting in the Sonoran desert. I brought the Etekcity stove, and my mate brought an MSR PocketRocket. We were up every morning before light, and literally everyday we had to wait on my stove to boil water. It was frustrating for both of us. In near freezing temps with a bit of wind it took my stove three times longer to boil water for coffee then his PocketRocket. Let me tell you, waiting 15 minutes for a cup of coffee at 5:30 in the morning, for five days straight, sucked.

It's important that your backpacking stove is reliable. It needs to work, even on a shitty day. It needs to work when it's dirty and wet. Testing the Etekcity stove in my backyard one day, I discovered that it had gotten wet from being left outside under a tree dripping water from melting snow. Although entirely accidental, I thought it would be a perfect time to fire the stove up, because after all, sometimes in the field stuff gets wet. The full results of the test are in the video below, but in a nutshell, the stove failed miserably. The stove was totally fouled by water to the point that fuel would not reach the burner. The water wouldn't drain. It took me around an hour to finally get the stove working, and even then the Piezo ignition switch was worthless. Just for comparison purposes, I left my PocketRocket in the same place, for the same amount of time. Although just as wet, the PocketRocket fired up immediately.

In this case you get what you pay for. After a year with the Etekcity stove my conclusion is that it is not reliable or durable. Frankly, I'm not sure it would survive a season of regular use backpacking. After the poor performance my first trip out with it, I was too scared to take it backpacking. Yes, in ideal conditions it boils with the best of them. If you only backpack short trips in sunny weather and you're flat broke, then maybe consider the Etekcity Backpacking Stove. If you buy it, rip the Piezo ignition switch off and save yourself a little weight and a lot of future headaches. Everyone else, spend a few more dollars and buy something actually made for the outdoors.

Gear Review: Nemo Astro Air Lite 20R

Nemo Astro Air Lite in The Grand Canyon

The Dirt:

 Nemo Astro Air Lite 20R

What is it? Ultralight sleeping pad.

Comes with: Pad, stuff sack, compression strap, repair kit.

Size: 20 x 72 inches. 3 inches thick. 3 x 8 inch pack size.

Weight: 14 ounces.

Insulation: Air (R-Value near zero).

Price: $109.95 at REI

The Nemo Astro Air Lite is one of the lightest options on the market for an inflatable sleeping pad. The 14 ounce weight puts it at just 2 ounces heavier than the current ultralight favorite, the Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xlite. What separates the Nemo Astro Air Lite from the competition however, is the shape. The Astro Air Lite is a true rectangle, unlike the NeoAir or Exped Synmat Hyperlight, which are both mummy shaped. The rectangular shape gives the backpacker ample room to roll over in the middle of the night without sliding off, and provides near unrivaled comfort for the weight. This could really come in handy if you don't use a mummy bag.

Indeed, it is this combination of weight and comfort that impresses me most about this pad. Most ultralight pads sacrifice comfort in order to achieve that absurd light weight. Not the case with the Astro Air Lite. Not only is there ample space, but the pad itself is 3 inches thick. Simply put, it's comfortable, and the horizontal baffles prevent that feeling of sleeping on a swimming pool floaty. The top baffle at the head is also larger than the rest, making for a decent pillow when combined with a balled up down jacket or fleece.

Horizontal baffles

Another impressive aspect of the Astro Air Lite is how small it stuffs into the sack. The 3 x 8 inch pack size is smaller than any comparable pad on the market that I know of. It's ultralight, but packs so small it will easily fit into my pack.

By far my favorite thing about this pad is that in over a year of owning it, I've never woke up to lost air. After suffering through two previous pads that developed micro leaks, that is a big deal to me. I love going to sleep with the confidence of knowing I wont wake up to a giant rock digging into my ribs in the middle of the night. It's one reason why I find myself going with this pad over foam more and more.

Nemo Astro Air Lite in stuff sack

Now, this pad might not be for everyone for the simple reason that the Astro Air Lite is non-insulated. I find it works for me year-round in Arizona in 90% of the conditions I use it in. I've never woken up cold on this pad, even cowboy camping in October, or tarp camping in December. But if you live up north and routinely backpack in freezing temps, this pad probably isn't for you.

Finally, I have but one complaint; the valve. Obviously, this pad inflates by lung power. Although it only takes a minute or two to completely inflate, the valve can be stiff and difficult to manipulate. On several occasions I've lost air after inflation due to complications with the valve. Sometimes, it just won't close properly.

The Nemo Astro Air Lite is a sweet pad with a reasonable price. If you're looking to shave some weight but not comfort, I would definitely give it a look. If you are a cold sleeper, or camp in colder conditions, then you may want to look elsewhere.

Gear Review: Sea to Summit Escapist Tarp

Escapist in a windshield pitch.

The Dirt:

Sea to Summit Escapist Tarp 

What is it? Ultralight backpacking tarp.

Comes with: Tarp, stuff sack, guylines, line locks

Materials: 15-denier silicone/polyurethane-coated Ultra-Sil® Nano 

Size: Medium - 6 ft. 6 in. x 8 ft. 6 in. Large - 10 x 10 ft.

Weight: Medium - 9.5 ounces. Large - 12.3 ounces

Price: Medium - $169.00. Large - $199.00.  REI.com

The Sea to Summit Escapist is my first true tarp. I've owned a couple tarp tents before: The Golite Shangri La and the Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape, and I like the Escapist better than both of them. 

The medium Escapist is the perfect shelter for the solo backpacker who likes to go extremely light. I love it for the desert because in the desert you typically don't need shelter, and there aren't many mosquitoes. In that case I carry the Escapist more as a backup, or more commonly, a windbreak. In fact, every time I've ever pitched the Escapist, I've done so primarily as a windbreak. That's why this thing is so cool. It is very versatile. There are probably dozens of ways to pitch a rectangular tarp, and the Escapists packaging comes with a few ideas.

Pitch ideas.

The Escapist has eight reinforced tie-out points that can all take a trekking pole.  Each of these points come with cord adjusters and reflective guyline, so it's ready to go brand new. All these tie-out points really give the Escapist its versatility. 

Since I primarily backpack in the desert, I've never had the chance to pitch this tarp using trees. I've always had to use my trekking poles. However, with practice, a proper trekking pole pitch is very sturdy. The Escapist has withstood 30 mph winds on multiple occasions. The drawback in pitching with trekking poles is that you'll need to carry some extra cordage. I've found that an extra 10 feet of spectra cord is the perfect length, and doesn't weigh anything,

What's impressed me the most about the Escapist is its durability. On a few separate occasion camped in the desert I've experienced extremely high winds. Winds that were blowing so hard I had to stack boulders over my stakes to keep them in the ground. This tarp is strong and well made and despite its lightweight, has stood up great over the last 6 months. It's got no holes, tares or any other problems. 

Favorite windshield pitch.

One of the big drawbacks of pitching with trekking poles is the loss of head room due to the fact that your tied off into the ground. I found this a problem with the classic windshield pitch and the A-frame pitch. On those occasions high winds forced me to tighten the guylines, which resulted in a lowering of one section of the tarp. Usually the section in between the trekking poles. One way to offset this is by placing your poles in adjoining points. No matter how much you tighten the pitch, you'll never lose headroom. Bottom: In the classic windshield pitch you can see that I lost headroom after tightening the center guyline. If the center guyline were anchored to a tree it wouldn't have been a problem.

Classic windshield pitch.

There is a learning curve with the Escapist. Don't expect to purchase this shelter and set it up perfectly the first time (unless you are experienced with this shelter type). It's nothing like a freestanding tent. It takes practice. To me, the versatility and absurd weight savings are well worth spending a little extra time in camp with set-up. Using the Escapist I found that I was more particular than ever about set-up location and site preparation. 

A-frame

Bottom Line 

The Sea to Summit Escapist is great for anyone stepping into the world of ultralight backpacking. Its versatile, strong, light and packs extremely small. Set-up takes practice, but learning the different pitches is half the fun. 

Note: It rarely rains in the desert, and I never got a chance to use this tarp in rain. 

Modified A-frame

Backpacking Stoves

Discussing 3 backpacking stoves, and weighing the pros and cons of each.

Desert Backpacking - Minimalist Kit

So, I finally got around to making a video about my backpacking kit. It was a lot of fun making, and I'll definitely be making more in the future. It did turn out really long though, which isn't too surprising considering I can be very long winded when talking about something I'm really passionate about like backpacking. This is worth a look if you are interested in desert gear or just lightweight/minimalist gear. 

Gear Review: Red Fox Fizan Trekking Poles

World's Lightest?

Trekking poles give the wilderness walker that extra traction to go the extra mile. They save the knees on the downhills, and are great for balance. If you’re an ultralighter, they come in handy for pitching the tarp too. And there are a ton to choose from. People are generally overwhelmed when they walk into REI and see an entire aisle full of poles, but one feature they always want is light weight.

 That’s why I was so stoked to review the Red Fox Fizan trekking poles. At 158 grams they make the bold claim of being the world’s lightest, and maybe they are. Compared to my Black Diamond poles they felt like feathers. In fact the 5.6 ounce weight is lighter than the lightest Black Diamonds. But they’re tough too. There were a couple times in The Grand Canyon when I thought they would break after I jammed one between rocks while in cruise control, but the aluminum allow construction had just enough flex to make the recovery without any damage.

Breakdown

At around 23 inches they also get smaller than the high-end name-brand poles we’re used to. And if that’s not small enough, they’ll easily break down into three separate sections of less than 19 inches, which is short enough to fit in most carry-on luggage. 

Specs aside, it’s clear to me that the Red Fox Fizan trekking poles are exactly what other poles are trying to be. Even the locking system is superior. Most twist locks fail over time, or when pressed upon by a significant weight. The twist locking mechanism in the Red Fox Fizan poles didn't budge even when I leaned on them. In the two months I've owned them they've never slipped once.

Compact

In the short term these trekking poles have been the best I've ever used. In 5 days of hard backpacking they felt like an extension of myself more than a tool I was using for travel. All wasn't perfect however, as the rubber tips they came with were utterly destroyed by the rocky Grand Canyon terrain... But that isn't saying much.

Oh yeah.

You can check out the Red Fox Fizan trekking poles and other gear at:
http://redfoxna.com/

Disclosure: I was given the Red Fox Fizan Trekking Poles at no cost of my own from Red Fox for the purposes of a product review. The opinions I express in the review about the product are my own.

Gear Review: Red Fox Odyssey 80

On the south rim of the Grand Canyon.

I read somewhere that Red Fox was The North Face of Russia. It's so popular that even Vladimir Putin wears it. I don't know if that is true, and frankly it doesn't really matter. Brand popularity doesn't interest me, good gear interests me, and the Red Fox Odyssey 80 backpack is definitely good gear.

The first thing I did when it arrived was fit the pack. With a fully adjustable torso I had it dialed in pretty quick. I loaded it with 30 pounds and paced around the house. It felt too good to be true. I had to see more. An hour later I was on top of a mountain. The pack had preformed beyond my expectations and had comfortably hauled my haphazardly packed load with ease.

A few days later I was standing on the south rim of the Grand Canyon. The Odyssey 80 was brimming with backpacking gear, 5 days of food, and nearly 2 gallons of water. Even with a successful test-run, I wasn't looking forward to carrying that weight over the next 34 miles.

If there ever were an ultimate proving ground for gear, it’s the Grand Canyon. The place is extreme, and in all my adventures over the years I've never encountered anything like it. The rocky terrain, unrelenting sun and insurmountable giant-cliffs everywhere will test the mettle of any backpacker, especially if you veer far from the popular corridor trails like we did. Needless to say, the Odyssey 80 took a beating: It broke my fall after I slipped on loose rocks, and was repeatedly dropped and manhandled. It was forcibly squeezed through narrow openings in-and-between rocks, and was lowered by rope down a twenty-foot cliff… All that, all the time. The rocks tore holes in other packs from my group, but the Odyssey 80 still looks brand new. That’s what I love about it. It’s a beast!

Lowering the Odyssey 80 down a cliff.

This beast isn't just durable, it’s huge… and hungry. With a massive 80 liter volume the Odyssey will swallow just about anything you stick down its gaping maw, and with multiple pockets and compartments, organization is easy. A variety of lashing points on the outside gave me options for securing my trekking poles when I needed my hands, and the zippered side pockets were long enough to fully secure Smartwater bottles with an attached Sawyer Mini. The storage options are many, but with all that stuff comes weight. The Odyssey’s aluminum frame carried the near 40 pound-load admirably, while the heavily-padded hip-belt was a welcome change from the ultralight backpack I normally use.

All these amenities make for a very technical trekking load-hauler, but all the floppy straps dangling from my pack was annoying. Regrettably, the backpack doesn't have any lashing options on the lid where I really needed them for fixing my solar panels to keep the GoPro charged.

Adjustable torso is easy, but slips.

The only real problem I had with the Odyssey was that the adjustable torso, which is essentially a strap, slowly slipped throughout the day. Whereas I would set my torso length at “medium” in the morning, by late afternoon it had slipped a quarter of the way to “small”. It wasn't a huge slip, but it was certainly enough to feel it in my shoulders. Eventually I got in the habit of checking the torso length every time I took the pack off. 

Despite a couple hiccups the Odyssey 80 is a nice backpack capable of hauling heavy loads over rough terrain. It’s large enough to accommodate any gear requirements with a variety of storage options, and will stand-up to even the worst abuse. Anyone looking to take their adventuring to the extreme should definitely give it a look.

Packs on the trip from Osprey, Deuter, REI, and Red Fox.

Check out the website for Red Fox North America

For the entire catalog, check out the Russian language page. I believe most of this gear will eventually be available through Red Fox North America.

Disclosure: I was given the Red Fox Odyssey 80 by Red Fox at no cost of my own for the purpose of a product review. The opinions expressed in the review about the product are my own.


Update: 2/11/15

Recently I lent this pack to a friend to use. He pointed out that he could not adjust the torso length past medium, and that one of the aluminum stays was tearing from the backpack. At first I thought he must be mistaken, but after he returned the pack I inspected and confirmed his observations. As you can see from this photo, one stay has ripped through the fabric, and the other appears well on its way. I don't know whether this is a design flaw or simply a defect. I did not spot this problem earlier because I never attempted to adjust the pack past medium, and the stays cannot be reached without removing the back panel. Although it is entirely possible that the slipping torso length that I experienced in the Grand Canyon was a result of this. Consequently. I cannot recommend this backpack due to the failure of the suspension and torso adjustment systems so soon. 

Top 10 Christmas Gifts for the Outdoor Lover: Under $50

Have an outdoor lover in your life? Not sure what to get them for Christmas? Check out this list of really cool yet affordable gear that is sure to satisfy adventurers of any level. These prices reflect the current regular price at REI.



                                                       Black Diamond Ion $24.95

This 80 lumen headlamp is one of the lightest and smallest on the market, and It only takes 2 AAA batteries (instead of the industry standard 3). But the coolest thing about it is the "power slide" function which allows you to control the settings without any buttons. Great for running because of the size and weight. It's still fairly new to the market so not a lot of people have them.

Buck 110 Classic $44.95

The Buck 110 Classic is a beautiful knife with a design that has stood the test of time. This is the knife your grandpa used to own and is sure to score big time for nostalgia and aesthetics. Made in the USA with 420HC stainless steel, it also comes with a black leather case that will attach to the belt.

                                                   
ChicoBag Bottle Sling $9.95

  

Some hikers just hate to carry a backpack. If you know someone like that then buy them a ChicoBag. It hangs over your shoulder like a satchel, and will fit most water bottles. In Phoenix they're a real hit with seniors, who come in REI frequently asking for them.

                                                 

                                                                                       Sawyer Mini $24.99

More of a specialty item but one that anyone will appreciate. The Sawyer Mini water filter will enable anyone to safely drink from water sources found in the woods. It is light, small, easy to use and guaranteed to 100,000 gallons. It's great for hunters and backpackers, and would make a good gift for any prepper in the family too.

                            Hydro Flask $24.95

The undisputed king of water bottles, a Hydro Flask will keep liquid hot for 12 hours and cold for 24. Great for morning coffee, hiking, camping, hunting, and just about any other activity you can think of. Owners are like a cult, and will swear by the Hydro Flask over any other piece of kit. Come in a variety of colors and sizes.    

                                                                            Brunton Torpedo 2600 $39.95   

Don't let the looks fool you, this is actually a sweet little gadget. Almost everyone carries electronics into the woods these days. With the Brunton Torpedo, you can keep your devices charged and not worry about battery life so much. The best part is you can charge it in your car on the way to the trailhead. This would be a good gift for anyone who uses a GPS or an MP3 player on the trail.

REI Flash 18 $34.50

A best seller and winner of Backpacker Magazine gear awards, the Flash 18 offers mobility and versatility. Great for travel, it packs down very small and can easily fit into any carry-on luggage. Could also be great for bike commuting.

                                                                          Darn Tough Socks $19.00

You've never truly lived until you have worn merino wool socks. These from Darn Tough are made in Vermont, and are widely considered the best socks money can buy. Any outdoor lover would appreciate them, and they last forever.

                                                      

                                                       Nathan Trail Mix $45.00

Runners come into REI all the time looking for hydration belts because so many of them hate carrying backpacks. This one from Nathan securely holds 2 10 oz. bottles and has a nice sized pocket for your giant cell phone, wallet and keys. Also nice for hikers who go light.

REI Personal Ice Box $24.00

Maybe my favorite item on the list, this cooler is great for easily carrying cold drinks. You can use it for fishing, picnicking, concert going, or hiking into your favorite swimming hole. It will hold about a 6-pack, and features a variety of pockets for stashing other gear. Also works great on road-trips.

Disclosure: I work at REI, but I created this blog post separately and independently of REI. These reflect the top 10 items that, based off my own opinion and experience, would make great gifts.