For a lightweight pack, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa feels beefy. The shoulder straps and hip belts are thick and sturdy. You can feel the slim metal frame that provides support when you grasp the top of the pack. A foam pad provides additional structure and support to the back and doubles as a removable sit … Continue reading
I never knew I needed ultralight trekking poles until I had the Gossamer Gear LT4S Trekking Poles. Not only are they feather light but they have a substantial cork-like grip that is exceedingly comfortable. Once you start weighing gear, it’s hard to go back. I’ve been trying to lighten my load, but I’m mostly focused … Continue reading
Tuna packets are a popular foundation for backpacker lunches, providing needed calories and protein. The Mylar packages are relatively convenient in the backcountry, being single serve and shelf stable. I’ve regarded them as a treat due to their weight but as I’ve tired of other lunch options they have become a more important component for … Continue reading
As a person who hikes most days of the week doing trail patrol, leading hikes and volunteering at our local state parks in Sonoma, I need a technical pack. It has to have a lot of pockets and places to stash maps, snacks, first aid kit, trash bags and emergency gear. The Sequoia 22 hiking … Continue reading
The Granite Gear Lutsen 55 pack is a quality lightweight backpack that is packed with features for the serious trekker. It is fully adjustable for both torso length and hip size and can flex to carry different sized loads. The Lutsen 55 is beefy with thick padded shoulder straps and hip belt. The frame is … Continue reading
I wasn’t looking for protein powder, but when Organic Fuel Whey Protein Powder, made by Organic Valley, landed on my doorstep, I discovered that I liked it. The flavor is good, it doesn’t have a chalky taste and adds needed protein to my backpacking diet. Protein powder is one of those products that never hit … Continue reading
Cusa Tea is a premium instant tea that makes tea drinking as easy as those ubiquitous skinny packets that coffee drinkers use. Several tea flavors come in the same kind of stick packaging, making it easy to use and transport. The tea packets contain nothing but pure tea with no sweeteners, additives or preservatives. … Continue reading
The Sierra Designs High Route 1 FL tent, a collaboration between long-distance hiker Andrew Skurka and Sierra Designs, has been highly anticipated over the last couple of years of development. I believe Sierra Designs is one of the most innovative mainstream outdoor companies there is, consistently coming up with new ways to solve old problems … Continue reading
I haven’t been a big fan of beef jerky in a while but Mighty Organic beef jerky changed all that. The Mighty Organic ingredient list for their jerky and meat sticks is pretty clean while the taste and texture are excellent. With other brands, I often notice a lingering aftertaste that I assume has to … Continue reading
Hydration mixes such as Tailwind Nutrition drink powders are a lifesaver for me. I often lose my appetite when I’m at altitude and exerting myself strenuously. Early in my backpacking career, before I figured out what was happening, I’d frequently bonk in the afternoon. I’d often reach a state of exhaustion that was difficult to … Continue reading
