❤❤❤ Thanks 4 the 411. PLS DO ONE ON WOMEN SPECIFIC, ESTIMATED PRICES FOR DIFFERENT CONTINENTS ( AFRICA)😅 + HIKING SHOES TOO. THANKS. DO THESE BAGS COME WITH A TENT,SLEEPING MAT, & R THEY H20 PROOF? KINDLY REPLY. Stay blessed Y'all.
❤❤❤ Thanks 4 the 411. Pla DO ONE ON WOMEN SPECIFIC ESTIMATED PRICES FOR DIFFERENT CONTINENTS ( AFRICA)😅 + HIKING SHOES TOO. THANKS. DO THESE BAGS COME WITHA TENT & R THE UGH H20 PROOF? KINDLY REPLY. Stay blessed Y'all.
Stephen I see your point - carrying more weight means more strain on the body - but weight:strain isn't 1:1. 10kg in a well fitting backpack with good suspension will cause less fatigue than 5kg in a sack that cuts into the shoulders and directs weight to the wrong place. That's why full-framed packs still have a place in the world.
@@layne4376 if it were that simple you'd see people carrying their entire kit in their hands, wrapped up in a dyneema bindle. After all, doing away with straps would be lighter still.
True. A good bag enables me and the guys I work / worked with to trek for weeks outside the wire carrying a lot more than 30 lbs. Most of use are 60-80 lbs with gear and munitions, and there are lots of guys at that 100-110 lb mark. "Oh, but carrying a heavy bag ruins your knees" . To be fair, it was probably the old style parachute (the new ones are very soft landing), but in reality only about half the guys I knew have any knee pain at all. My mom never carried anything heavy and her knees are worse than the worst knees from my unit. So I dunno, I think using your body isn't the same thing as ruining it, contrary to some folks' idea.
I've been saying this since I got my Atmos 65 years ago. Yes. It's heavier. But the extra engineering that goes into it will at least negate the extra weight of the pack by making it easier to carry the extra weight of your gear. You go north of about 20# in even those not-quite-UL packs and you are likely in for a tough time. They're basically ONLY good for people trying to go UL. Then again, I kind of got the feeling that half the purpose of the vid was to nudge people toward becoming UL. Thank goodness there was a handy link to a sponsor that happens to sell such gear. :)
The problem with a lot of the gear for hiking and backpacking specifically is that a lot of the better gear is not sold at a local retailer so a lot of times your stuck with buying something without ever having the chance to try it on first! Thanks, this was informative!
@@gl0tchdj I'd like to buy a light quilt for warm temperature... But on a base price of 250 I have to add 50 only for US-EU shipping duties 💀 pls tell me you know some European ratailers (Besides Cumulus)
Over the past twelve years I have been slowly lightening my pack weight. I retired last year which has allowed me to do longer trips. I did the Long Trail In Vermont. That said I decided when I retired to finally go UL and I purchased my big three from Zpacks. I also lighted every piece of gear I own. My base weight is now about eight or nine pounds. It’s been a game changer. I am hiker bigger miles now in my 60s than I did thirty years ago. It’s possible when your pack weighs next to nothing. The nice thing is today you can go very light for not a lot of money. For example my old Granite Gear pack was under 2.5 or even lighter with the brain removed for 139.00 dollars. There is no need to be lunging a heavy pack any longer. It can be done for not a lot of money. My stove the BRS cost 15 dollars and is under one ounce. Toaks pot 2.2 oz about 35 dollars. Save your body now don’t beat it up for no reason.
Very helpful reply. Am curious if you have any neck or arthritis issues. I'm similar to you in age and am leaning towards a more traditional back despite the weight thinking that it may help my arthritic neck. To illustrate how much of an old fart I am, I'm getting rid of my _external_ frame pack, an old Kelty.
Great video! One area where traditional or hybrid packs have a definite advantage is ventillated back panel (not the gimmicky ribbed foam inserts but where there is a definite air gap between your back and the pack). I would rather carry the 200-400g weight penalty of a ventillated pack (like the Osprey Exos) any day over a lighter pack that sticks to my back. Gábor from Hungary
Although I would love to have better ventilation, I personally need one I can travel with. In Europe there's lots of trains or flights with size restrictions where the air gap would take away too much space.
Traditional has been the way for me, as a relative casual to hiking/backpacking. I don't do glamping, but it's nice to be able to use whatever you have, and sometimes, that's durable, but heavy gear. As long as the overall weight is less than like 60 lbs, I'm good.
Please be aware that when you say "traditional packs are for people carrying heavy loads over x pounds", it depends on the size of the person too. I am small (around 50 kilos, narrow shoulders), so the situation is not the same for me as for a big man. Even a light pack is a substantial proportion of my bodyweight and I cannot comfortably carry much weight at all on on my shoulders. I tried ultralight packs and it was miserable. A few years ago I switched to a Fjällräven Abisko 65, which is a heavy tank of a rucksack, and never looked back. Having the weight effectively transferred to my hips makes SUCH a difference. With this one, I can comfortably carry 17 kilos all day, whereas before, I struggled with 7 kilos.
So yeah, smaller people: counterintuitively, a heavier pack might actually make things easier for you. See if you can borrow some different ones from friends first and walk around with them fully loaded for a few hours.
Hmm no mention of exterior framed packs which can also come in ultralight versions (such as seek outside)? Generally used for expeditions, going deep in the backcountry, and/or hunting. If you have a lot of heavy gear/food to carry, a good comfortable external frame pack is a must if you have to carry 50-100+ pound loads. Sometimes I get the impression that thru-hikers think they are the only ones who use backpacks in the outdoors.
We talk a lot about packs, and pack types, I applaud you for saying that not every pack fits every body. Everyone skips the important thing. Get your pack fitted by a professional. TO TELL YOU if the pack fits (we can’t tell if it’s comfortable, but we can tell if it fits) - and The pack stabilizing straps are called load lifters.
@@timg7627 I think it goes beyond just "women-specific" too, a lot of guys have different builds where women specific gear would be good for them. I have narrow shoulders and find that the women's versions of packs fit me better than the men's.
There is also some crossover from running vests happening, such as wider chest areas on the shoulder straps with storage pockets in front. Big fan of those as they make the pack sit more stable - especially when you run with it - and help you stay on top of your hydration and nutrition as you won't have to take your pack off to access all those things. Hopefully more packs will include those in the future.
Aarn packs, kiwis have been using them for years now. Everyone else is behind the times because apparently a correctly balanced and actually ergonomically designed pack is maybe a kilo or so heavier and so not worth it?... LOL
@@Shrouded_reaper Thanks for the tip. Very interesting looking packs, that I didn't know about. Probably pretty hard to get one here Europe. I was recently looking for a 30 L pack for fastpacking. Was turned off by the Montane Trailblazer for it's often reported durability issues. Ended up with the current Deuter Speedlite. Definitely not the most lightweight, but sits pretty well even for running. I was sceptical about the amount of front pockets, but I can actually access the lid pocket without taking the pack off, so that makes up for it. Overall pretty happy with this pack so far.
.. Nobody speaks of the true original backpack style of external frame ... for all weights but usually heavy loads on open trails .. not comfortable for bending and mountaineering but very comfortable on long flat treks .. strap harness is installed on frame and NOT on pack bag ,,making frame usable for other chores like gathering firewood or carrying game meat out off the mountain ... bags can be made of anything but usually canvas or goretex type materials ..
@@Asdf-789 No The Kelty/Jansport/Karrimor were a breakthrough in backpacking packs They had light aluminum frames with hip belts They were very comfortable indeed and could take heavier loads They had a higher center of gravity so they were excellent for trail walking
Thanks for offering to do a review on women-specific ultralight gear! I think that women's needs are largely ignored in the conversation and design of ultralight gear. I invested in a Durston Kakwa and knew right away the hip belt was going to cause my hips a lot of pain because it wasn't designed for female hips. I've done a lot of modding on the pack to make it work like it should on the other 50% of the population.
I love watching your channel, because you provide your backpacking wisdom in a straightforward, succinct, and intelligent manner that inspires confidence in my own ability to get out there. Learning about women-specific gear would be icing on the cake! Thank you!
Very interested in women’s specific gear. Also, as a mom I’m frequently left carrying the bulk of the weight for the kiddo(s), making anything other than a traditional pack seem unreasonable. I’d love any recommendations that take backcountry kids into account.
I have never hiked until I did the Camino de Santiago in 2016.I bought an Osprey Atmos AG 50 and went with that.That will always be my mobile home.I’m planning to do the CDT and that Osprey is coming along.Btw,I was 51 at the time.
I am a tall Woman - 6.1 - and I've searched for a long time. I wanted a light but framed Backpack, because I've issues with ma cervical spine. I found the Exped Lightning 60 and I'm very happy with it. Great bag 🎉 Very good channel, love it. Happy trails from Germany ✨
I see the appeal of ultra light but it feels like it is just a race to see who has the lightest pack out there. And then you are racing through the woods at breakneck speeds and not really enjoying the wilds. I think I will always use a traditional pack. I don't mind packing lighter gear, it helps make the hike easier. But ultralight is just not for me. I like to smell the flowers. But you do you.
Totally agreed brother. I see people talking about fast packing… like why?? I’d rather build strength with the minuscule amount of extra weight a traditional has. Super light gear tends to be just as expensive if not more like smh
Strongly agree, additionally I feel that a lot of UL gear feels very flimsy and fragile, both of my favourite packs are made out of triple digit denier cordura and I love the solid and secure feeling of them. I'd rather lose pack weight by not bringing much than by buying expensive gadgets that wear down in a year.
Plus, you spend a LOT more money on these UL packs than seems logical. When you're only making a tubular bag and sewing some straps on it, you don't need to go with expensive materials for it to still be UL. Just how much should a tubular bag with some straps sewn on cost?
Same hat! Unfortunately there is a difference other than back length and it's a pain! Usually the shoulder straps are curved more/differently so that they don't press uncomfortably into the sides of the breasts and the hip straps are more concave on the inside and better cushioned on traditional packs to avoid the uncomfortable flat strap sitting straight on the bone situation many women deal with with the average backpack It's hard to find packs like that with a longer back length though:/ fixed length packs are pretty much out but some with adjustable back lengths are adjustable enough (for me, 1.85, at least)
Excellent video! I've been transitioning from traditional packs to ultralight and love the change. Before changing my pack, had to change several other items (quilt and tent being the most expensive and biggest weight savings). I think I'll still use the traditional pack in the winter sometimes (SO MUCH GEAR!) but most other times it will be the UL pack for me!
Well, here is the deal: ultralight is needlessly expensive. The total cost of all gear will be in the thousands very fast if one is to pick everything from the shelf today and that is not something people want to do for a type of vacations that supposed to be budget. My take is this: get a traditional backpack or a hybrid and as light of a tent as you can afford. those two will stay with you for a while, so invest in those. You can then spend any leftover budget on cheap (meaning heavy) gear that you will upgrade over time. Thus, you will upgrade your tent and backpack last. The once you had are to be donated to the next generation of campers/backpackers. PS. seems like a video idea for you: what can you cheap out on (with the intent of upgrading in the future) and what should be bought premium outright? also, how to prioritize one's upgrades?
I agree that it doesn't seem like a tubular sack with a few straps sewn on should cost so much. You can use average materials and still be UL. Building the kit can be a tough call, though. You can end up spending hundreds/thousands more buying gear that you sometimes absolutely know you will be replacing at the time you buy it. I think we're on the same track, but I approach it more from the hike perspective (which often is incorporated in the gear-centric approach). Get that decent pack and tent, and that first season just do a few overnights with what you already have around you. Then go longer trips which require more gear, etc., and see how it goes. I wouldn't really recommend spending much more at all to try to go UL until a person has done a section hike in which someone is dropping off in the morning and picking you up at the end of the day. A sleep system isn't necessary but you can pack a chair, food, etc., to make up for carrying less weight with those systems. If you decide that going 16-20 miles in a day is something you enjoy, then work on lightening up for the future. But a LOT of us got lighter gear with through hiking in mind, only to realize we found it to be boring as dog sh!t and that we were more vertical hikers than horizontal hikers. Take care.
Would love to hear more about women specific gear! Not sure how popular it would be but I find that most of the gear reviews are from the perspective of men, especially tall men. I’m hoping to buy a pack soon but not being able to hear reviews from another 5 foot curvy lady like myself makes me hesitant to pull the trigger.
yep, i prefer framed packs as that's what i'm used to and like the stability it gives for bulkier items but my daughter is just getting into backpacking and is just over 5 foot and curvy. Need to get her a backpack for next year's trip but not sure which to get her. Definitely needs to be padded on the shoulders though.
To the person who said "should probably look for a female youtuber then" and who either deleted their comment or had their comment deleted, FYI I was responding to a question from MLO and perhaps if you had watched the entire video, you would have known that. 🤷♀
Don't forget to take a look at the superb, if expensive, Osprey Aether Pro 70 (or 65 for women) packs. Stripped down to essentials and weighing 4 pounds or less, the suspension system also incorporates some advantages that external frame packs used to have. Very comfortable, even for heavier loads, I turn to mine once Osprey's Exos starts to be overloaded.
Traditional packs are always better than anything else. They have far superior suspension systems, much better padding, can transport weight efficiently causing less fatigue on the wearer and last longer. A heavier pack with a better build will always be better than a lighter pack with an inferior build and will allow the user to put in more miles with more comfort. It's like driving a Honda Civic across the country vs a Cadillac. Sure, the Civic will save you gas money, but it'll tire you more because you're not as isolated from the road as you'd be in the Cadillac. That's why the best packs are never referred to as the "Civic" of packs! LOL It's almost always the "Cadillac" of packs. Plus, a traditional pack with 15lbs in it will feel lighter than an ultralight pack with 15lbs in it. The ultralight pack will feel heavier even "if" the traditional pack weighs on average 3 more pounds, but that's 3 more pounds of padding & suspension that no ultralight pack can match.
I remember from the 1970s hearing about the necessity of transferring pack weight to the hips. At almost 70, and doing long distance hikes (over 200 miles) occasionally, I absolutely HATE having much weight on my hips. I rarely carry as much as 30 pounds, total, after resupply and often max out at 24. Last week I did a short 42 mile hike to complete the Appalachian Trail in sections over 40 years, and carried some unnecessary gear (Kelly Kettle and wood processing tools), bringing my pack weight up to 24. My hips were killing me until I cinched the shoulder straps all the way up and tightened my sternum strap quite a bit. My pack had been sitting on the muscles on top of my hips, which constantly move while I am hiking. Shoulder muscles don't move nearly as much, and I had no shoulder pain at all. My pack is a ULA CDT. I have been carrying frameless packs since 2004. I make a "frame" by rolling a closed cell foam pad into a tube and insert it into the pack and stuff my gear into the tube, with everything protected by a contractor trash bag.
I ended up going for an Osprey Exos 48. It’s only 2.85 pounds, comfortable as hell, and can carry heavy loads. I was gonna go for the Hyperlite 3400 Southwest but it doesn’t have great padding, gets more uncomfortable the more you put into it, and I’ve heard some people say that their backs get super sweaty from it. I don’t think backpacking is about going super light to the point where you’re sleeping on rocks, or super heavy to the point where you’re wearing a house on your back, but somewhere in the middle between weight and comfort. And that can mean a different bag for different people.
I think it depends on what type of backpacking your doing. If your a weekend worrier and doing low miles or your very young and super fit it does not really matter much. If you are doing big miles day after day it certainly does. The majority of through hikers I know go UL because it’s necessary because doing 100 plus week after week takes it toll on you. I have also met many people who purchased their gear super cheap used. I met someone last week who had a Hyperlite and paid 100 dollars used. I have sold lightly used gear very cheap because I moved on from that gear. I do not sleep poorly because I am UL, my quilt is super warm, my pad is very good and my tent have never leaked. Again if you hike only once in a while it really does not matter. I guess my question is why do you want to carry a heavy load? The gear is so light there is no need to carry a heavy pack. That pack you have is a nice pack.
Throwing it out there; I have a Bonfus pack, and I like it a lot! But for some added comfort that I can easily put on or remove, I grabbed a Ventapak attachment. It is this lightweight spacer that goes between the user's back and the bag; creating space or a gap for airflow - they are less than 1 lbs in weight, which I know is still a stretch for gram weenies, but I like that it can add variety in comfort for different bags that depending on the wearer may want more air flow on their back. If someone struggles with sweat on their backs after purchasing a pretty expensive bag, the Ventapak attachment may be worthwhile at not a terrible price or weight! Also after looking at some reviews for the Ventapak, they have had older issues with some of the clips not being up to snuff, BUT reviews have consistently stated that the company sent replacements as needed and have since updated the buckles in their newer Ventapak products to limit the weak buckles. So another good company to support
I've carried every kind of pack from A-frame Bergens in the 60s through external frames in the 70s to internal framed and frameless "ergonomic" packs in the 80s and 90s. I've been using a frameless(*) 60-65L Alpine pack from 1982 for the last 40+ years and after watching some TH-cam channels decided I needed something lighter. Then I weighed my ancient Cordura pack - 2lbs 5oz! Maybe I don't need a new pack after all. My current baseweight is 15lbs in summer and 20 in winter. I find it pretty comfortable to carry so I'll just try to lose a few ounces somewhere else. Thanks for the video, I didn't learn too much but it was well presented. BTW I love GGG, I just wish it didn't cost so much to ship stuff to the UK! (*)My frameless pack actually has a stiffened closed cell sitmat that slips down the back to give it some support, like a removable frame that doubles up as a sitmat.
Or use a traditional pack with ultralight gear inside. Just because they are designed to comfortably carrying heavier loads doesn’t mean you have to. Once upon a time I went down the ultralight trail. Now I use a 5.5 lb hammock setup including insulation and carry a camp chair. I sleep better and sit better while resting my back against the chair. And while not a thru hiker I do go long distances, got an 8 day trip next week.
Love your videos, alway very complete and informative. I have so much trouble choosing my backpack because most stores have no stock available right now. I would definitely like to hear more about women gear to maybe help me order a good pack. Keep up the good work!
You might want to try the Mariposa packs. They can only be ordered online. I’m a woman and I found their pack the most comfortable for me. Well padded hip belt & shoulder straps, but very lightweight overall. No brain, no frame and the back pad doubles as a comfortable seat cushion at camp. Lots of TN hikers lov❤e them. Not too bad of a $$$ either.
I would love a video for women-specific gear! I've been wanting to get into backpacking, and a lot of your videos give such a detailed and thorough test of gear and I love it!
I have ten different packs that I use regularly. I built what I call my pack tree out of a tree bole with branch stubs to hang the packs. I never leave home without putting on a pack. If I did, I would feel naked. I don't drive so a pack serves all my shopping needs not to mention my hiking treks. Great video. I enjoyed it very much. I have a Hyperlite Porter pack among my more ancient ones.
This is me minus the pack tree. A pack tree is my new aspiration and will be the ultimate shyt test for my girlfriend before I ask her to marry me and live in an old rusty tugboat with no electricity.
As far as I know there is one more type of backpacking, which I belong to. It's where you use a tubular frame rucksack to carry all of your property to the middle of nowhere and back. In this setup you don't look at how much a piece of gear weighs, but at how reliable it is. This is the type of backpacking me and my friends do in scouts here in FInland.
I like a traditional pack because I tend to do more camping and less walking so I like having lots of gear. I also often have a canoe so I don’t need to carry my bag much at all and love all the lashing options for larger tools that the osprey you used for an example has.
I'd love to hear more about women's-specific gear! I didn't know that traditional packs are made to carry more than 30 pounds most of the time. Not an ultralighter, but because of what I've read on how much I can pack at my bodyweight (125-130 lbs) I try not carry a whole lot more than that anyway and yet I have a traditional pack for some reason...
.. Before all this Ultra light and lightweight came into the recreat I on game ,, it was common to carry half your body weight or more... of course we were not hiking 20 plus miles every day ... for 6 months ..
I’ve been selling packs for nearly 20 years, and I don’t think I’ve heard anyone call the hood or lid of a bag the brain before lol! I kinda dig it, it’s often where you put the smart things to carry. Disclaimer, I work for an outdoor retailer and this is my own personal opinion, has nothing to do with the company I work for.
...the "brain" on many are detachable ,,when you set up camp can seperate and use as a fanny pack or slingbag .. great for short treks to a fishing lake or top of a mountain for photo's ...
I'm old enough to consider 'traditional' packs to have external frames. I still prefer them, even for modest loads. If you've never used one, you don't know what you're missing
I agree. External frame packs are the true traditional pack. You trade a little bit of load close to body for the beauty of great airflow across your back. Much less sweat and a soaked shirt every time you stop for a break. I just wish that I had used hiking poles in the 70s with my frame packs, as those would have cancelled any disadvantage of a frame pack I can think of.
I hear what y’all saying about ultra light but sometimes I just need to carry water, heaps of water, so a pack is going to have to be sturdy and comfortable. I just want options depending on where and how long I’m going and my shelter choices so I’m never going to get an ultra pack that doesn’t give the flexibility. Whatever it is it’s going to be expensive so it’s an investment in the future too. Pretty happy with my Macpac Tasman 45. Comfy, pretty light and forces me to leave tempting stuff at home because I can’t get much in it. The more food I need or water the less luxurious my other choices.
I have 100 liter Osprey but that's only for mountain expeditions. Food for 10-15 days, ropes, harness, carabiners, ice screws, storm tent etc. That's while going in a group of ~6 people. Empty weight 3kg/close to 7 pounds. That's what heavy duty backpacks are for.
This was great, thank you. I'm going to different countries in south east and east Asia for three months and wanted to take a lighter pack but I am definitely more of a prepared person so I think I should stick with the traditional pack. Just worried about how much my back will eventually hurt but it beats not having what I need with me.
I have boys that are just getting into scouting, backpacking, and camping. I’d love to see a video about what outdoor equipment you’d recommend for kids.
My experience with this was to start with smaller, durable, but not necessarily the primo gear. They grow so quickly that my son has gone through 3 sets of gear between crossover and late high school (we won't even touch the number of shoes). If they are in an active camping Troop, their gear will get beat to heck anyway, so you want stuff that works, but doesn't make you cry if you have to replace unexpectedly. Our Troop camps a lot, but it tends to be car or just couple mile hikes to campsites. I started buying the really good stuff when my son was prepping for Philmont, because weight mattered more and he grew out of all his gear a month before the trek. I've thrifted and went to discount stores to get that early stuff - just be really thorough in reading reviews so you know what you are getting. Some gear like stoves - check with the Troop to see how often the Scouts actually need them before buying. They may also have a gear shed where your kid can try a couple different backpacks and/or tents before you spend anything on them. Just pay attention to that packing list. I routinely loose my extra blanket, jacket, extra rope, knife, etc... to a Scout who "forgot".
On the Hyperlites, the black material is stronger than the white! Not that ive seen anything negative for the white. They are amazing. My Unbound 55 in Black is perfect in every way, for me.
I started backpacking in my 50’s. First pack was an Amazon knock off to take before I even knew if I’d like backpacking. 2nd was a Gregory 70L. I named her big Bertha. She served me well, but in trying to save weight I slowly converted to lighter gear that ended up swimming in big bertha. I then bought Gregory’s version of ultralight, the Octal, very light, but straps hurt me unless it was summer and I didn’t have too much food and water to carry. Now I have the ULA Circut. Very light, the roll down vs. the brain took some getting used to but now I love it. I can pack light or heavier for multi-day. The only thing I don’t like is that no matter what, back gets soaked. This has made me careful to choose the right clothing, especially in cooler temps. I have now invested thousands into this hobby that kicks my but on most occasions, but I love it and feel fairly set…tho I would like to try a quilt vs. a sleeping bag someday. :) Enjoying your channel.
That is a nice pack. I think that is why I went with the Zpack Arc Blast. You can adjust the arc in the pack giving you space between your back and pack. I colder weather I don’t even arc the pack. I did miss my brain too. I now use two DCF zipper bags to organize my stuff that I uses to store in the brain. Take care and enjoy that beautiful pack. I just pulled the trigger on a Zpack 20 degree quilt and used it this past week on a three day trip in Vermont. It’s super light about 19 ounces. The temps got down to about 25 degrees. I was fine but I would say my Western Mountaineering 20 UL is warmer, but also heavier. If the temps went closer to 20 degrees I would use my WM sleeping bag, other than that I am using the quilt. So light and also warm. Take care and enjoy your hiking.
Great video. As always a opinion, hey it's TH-cam so inevitable. Ventilation is just as important. I hike in Australia so a pack thats a bit heavier but doesn't make you loose LITRES of sweat it's worth the weight.
I just bought a pack and I watched this to see how my decision was. I ended up with the Alps Mountaineering Durango, and I love it so far. 2.7 lbs for a 45L pack and my gear loadout with water and food puts me right at 30lbs (including 5L of water) we'll see how well it holds it. I've carried 28 lbs and it felts pretty good, but we will see for sure.
To take a step further from what Lukas says, Aarn Bodypacks from New Zealand (but there is a US store) may look strange, but lemme tell you please, They Are Comfortable as all get out. Maybe it's for us older folk with back issues, but Aarn's design with front packs utilizes the straps distribute the weight to your hips. You can adjust the pack weight on and off your shoulders, on the fly. Pain gone! Miles and smiles. I don't have stock in the company, just want to spread the Aarn love.
Love your series; very informative in a no-nonsense presentation. Just moved to AZ, and planning to get a pack for 2,3, 4 day trips R2R2R Grand Canyon each spring. Any Advice on a pack which “might” work for 3 nights camping, but still light enough for a 2-day sprint where we aren’t carrying tent, stove, quilt, pad? Hybrid ya think? Final variable: 6’ 4” male… Great series! Thanks
Something else to consider is duration of hike, not only in miles but days. I have 1 pack and it works well for everything for me, but I’m not a through hiker. I can take my 8 year old on a 3 mile overnight and carry extra weight/gear and it’s no problem. I can go on a solo multiple day trip with the same pack and it’s great. It weighs 2 lbs 10 ounces. Under $200. I think this pack gets hate because of its brand, and the attachments, which can be removed. Rei flash 55. Review plz?
I checked out that pack when it came out a couple of years after I bought the one I'm still carrying (Osprey Atmos 50). I think the Flash 55 is a great pack, moved and light while capable of carrying a bit more weight when necessary. I saw quite a few Flashes on the PCT this summer s when I worked on the trail. Yes, I use my package until they die. I still have a couple of external frame packs I use for carrying heavy loads like wooden wilderness permit boxes or the heavy oak Wilderness signs, or saws and rigging for a logout. A pack should fit your size, comfort needs, and load needs, sounds like you've got that dialed in.
I have the same one as in the video and I will say it is a great pack. It is very comfortable and I don't feel sore after hiking, even with heavy loads. I tend to carry lots of weight and so having a pack that can balance that weight out is very nice
I don't see a problem with the traditional packs like the osprey. Osprey is the most comfortable pack I have worn. you just have ultralight tent sleep system and other items lol. that's it thats all you have to do. the hyper light mountain gear packs are sh*t. lol. im sorry but they are. Its not rocket science. Get the osprey and have ultralight gear inside. my base weight w my osprey aether 55 is 15 lb.
All about women specific items when you can of course. I'm a fan of a frame, but in a modern way. Osprey tempest and mira have frames that allow for airflow. But for me, the important part is that the weight gets distributed better over my spine due to the mesh on these packs (because they have a frame). Other packs are pretty much padded and the spinal pressure doesn't feel good since part of my spine sticks out more. I learned this the hard way when I bought one without a frame.
Well, the top 4 comments on my feed would like more women's gear content, and I agree. I've wanted to go backpacking again for years! But I have a heart condition, meaning that I have to go a lot slower and tend to need lighter gear. Knowing a bit more about what kind of gear could help me would be a big help!
And to think when I started and hiked 3 sections of the JMT the ne plus ultra of backpacks was the external frame Kelty, you could drink the water from streams without a filter, use a svea stove, hike in killer cotton Levi’s and t shirts, wear a Pendleton and hiking boots, and we still survived with weights for young guys minimum 30-35 lbs for 9 days without Re supply and sleeping cowboy style or in plastic tube tents of the weather turned foul. My how times have changed.
Lol, great post. That's how I used to hike, too, and yup, with a Kelty external frame pack. Used to hang a ladle on the outside and when I crossed a creek I'd dip and drink without a care. I did appreciate switching to polypro from denim, though.
I just ordered a couple of backpacks using REI garage sale. I may come back and watch this again when they arrive because honestly I don't know what I got! I've hiked a lot but never backpacked, planning some trips with my son this year.
Not everyone has access to lightweight expensive gear and not everywhere you can find lightweight food. I hiked 11 days with a 23kg backpack, including water and food. Good luck finding lyophilized food in a small town in chilean patagonia. Had to carry 10 cans of fish (tuna, salmon) Thanks to my traditional deuter aircontact I was able to comfortably do it.
Would love more info on women's gear, especially gear for petite women. At 5'2" I find most packs hang down past my hips even when the straps are all the way tight. Help! 😮
I would love to know what is different in the female versions of a back pack. Is it just a size thing? I’m 1.80 cm and not particularly bulky, so in most cases with gear, I will choose the male option! But I would love to learn more about it; if there is a reason why I might consider the female version
Sometimes location/weather dictates type. The ultralight/frameless don’t do so well with heavy, winter gear loads in super cold climates. When our August night time temps are the same as your winter temps then you can only get so low on your big 3. And if you’re physically used to packing that while postholing in snowshoes then anything less feels “ultralight” naturally. 🥾🏔❤️🇨🇦
I'd love a video on women specific gear. I just started getting into backpacking (did a solo trip for 9 days on the Isle of Skye in Scotland which was a big learning experience but I loved it) and now I have three other women (including my mom!) who want to come along with me and try it out. I didn't do much research in to the women specific sizing because I'm 5'-10" with a long torso so generally things sized for men tend to fit me better anyway, but with helping my mom and friends find gear I'd really like to be able to understand the differences and the intended design changes. I will say that I tried on a Deuter traditional pack at my local REI and all the padding hurt! I tried on the Osprey Exos 58 which was a men's pack and sort of "ultralight" in the sense that it had way less bulky padding and such and it was infinitely more comfortable. My personal theory is that, being plus-sized, my bodyfat gives me enough "padding" and the big thick pads just create pressure points. For someone who has much less bodyfat that I do they would probably really want or need that extra padding but for me just having the straps lay on my hips correctly allowed my bodyfat to distribute the load just fine. I carried 30+ lbs and probably made a thousand mistakes but my pack never felt painful and most of the time was surprisingly comfortable.
So, super nice vid, i'll walk for 12 days beyond the polar circle this summer, fully auto sustained, i have all the gear, pretty lightweight but for the backpack, idk ultralight is fragile sometimes...
so im an infantrymen ive been making alot of my own gear because NIR compliant fabrics are a need, rn im building a UL style pack out of a much heavier duty fabric than most of the UL bags and its current form packed im at 34lbs with food but not water closer to 40 with it but i only carry 2 liters which is alot less than most dudes i work with
I have an ultra light style made out of xpac and I really like because it is still light but pretty heavy duty as well for me the reason I went with it was the size was customizable and my torso length wasn't right inbetween sizes like some of the other companies I was looking at I'm not sure if I'll go to a traditional one in the future I'd maybe intertain a frame less for fast packing one day on a weekend trip I would consider an ultra bag eventually but they are soo expensive there are tons of other things I would rather grab with spare money for now but it would be nice to have a smaller bag for smaller solo trips (no dog)
Hm, I am going on a 450 km / 280 miles hike in two weeks. I currently have a framed hip-belt 35 L backpack weighs about 950 grams / 33,5 oz which I have tested on long hikes before. Should I stress to order a hyperlight one when I need to carry food for the first five days? Its a bit hard to calculate how much water I need to carry, but I need at least two liters at a time. I am going to sleep indoors, so I dont need to carry a tent and only carry a silk liner.
traditional bag (against UL) usually have better form, frame, storage compartment and better support to the shoulder, back, waist... end up after years of searching... i have taken up the hybrid, Granite Gear Crown 2 60L...
I'm a complete beginner and I'm going on a moderate hike for my first time, what bag would work best for me? To give you some details its a 3 to 4 hour hike in a loop 7miles long not that bad, and I'm not looking to do overnight, just needing some guidance to understand what pack works best for something like this
Know like Big Badminton Bags, is this more fit or that? If imagine this is about the same, if add-on a hooking ring for Sling Shoulder or Diagonal Way of Carry?
Yes please!! Please DO talk more about gear suitable for women, and if there is any difference! I love your channel regardless!! But if you do decide to talk more about female targeted stuff, I'd definitely feel more seen!! Thank you again!! ❤❤🤗
This video basically summarizes my biggest issue with backpackers: They never look outside their own little world of companies that target backpackers. My Kuiu hunting pack is 66L and under 4 lbs even with an internal frame. It's tough, durable, and insanely comfortable with thick hip belts and good load lifters, meant to carry heavy loads of meat. It makes it a breeze for backpacking, yet despite the size, weight, and comfort....you'll never see them mentioned even though you even highlight a heavier pack.
Check out Garage Grown Gear: geni.us/m2tzeVo
Packs from this video:Osprey Aether 55: geni.us/eLM6BgV
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 2400: geni.us/qvxcws
MountainSmith Zerk 40: geni.us/OT0Ck
Big Agnes Prospector 50: geni.us/KGGb4fe
❤❤❤ Thanks 4 the 411. PLS DO ONE ON WOMEN SPECIFIC, ESTIMATED PRICES FOR DIFFERENT CONTINENTS ( AFRICA)😅
+ HIKING SHOES TOO. THANKS.
DO THESE BAGS COME WITH A TENT,SLEEPING MAT, & R THEY H20 PROOF?
KINDLY REPLY. Stay blessed Y'all.
❤❤❤ Thanks 4 the 411. Pla DO ONE ON WOMEN SPECIFIC ESTIMATED PRICES FOR DIFFERENT CONTINENTS ( AFRICA)😅
+ HIKING SHOES TOO. THANKS.
DO THESE BAGS COME WITHA TENT & R THE UGH H20 PROOF?
KINDLY REPLY. Stay blessed Y'all.
Uhh can I also use a school backpack during summer I'm on a budget and I'm already used to it
Stephen I see your point - carrying more weight means more strain on the body - but weight:strain isn't 1:1. 10kg in a well fitting backpack with good suspension will cause less fatigue than 5kg in a sack that cuts into the shoulders and directs weight to the wrong place.
That's why full-framed packs still have a place in the world.
@@layne4376 if it were that simple you'd see people carrying their entire kit in their hands, wrapped up in a dyneema bindle. After all, doing away with straps would be lighter still.
True. A good bag enables me and the guys I work / worked with to trek for weeks outside the wire carrying a lot more than 30 lbs. Most of use are 60-80 lbs with gear and munitions, and there are lots of guys at that 100-110 lb mark.
"Oh, but carrying a heavy bag ruins your knees" . To be fair, it was probably the old style parachute (the new ones are very soft landing), but in reality only about half the guys I knew have any knee pain at all. My mom never carried anything heavy and her knees are worse than the worst knees from my unit. So I dunno, I think using your body isn't the same thing as ruining it, contrary to some folks' idea.
I've been saying this since I got my Atmos 65 years ago.
Yes. It's heavier. But the extra engineering that goes into it will at least negate the extra weight of the pack by making it easier to carry the extra weight of your gear. You go north of about 20# in even those not-quite-UL packs and you are likely in for a tough time. They're basically ONLY good for people trying to go UL.
Then again, I kind of got the feeling that half the purpose of the vid was to nudge people toward becoming UL. Thank goodness there was a handy link to a sponsor that happens to sell such gear. :)
The problem with a lot of the gear for hiking and backpacking specifically is that a lot of the better gear is not sold at a local retailer so a lot of times your stuck with buying something without ever having the chance to try it on first! Thanks, this was informative!
So true. As the same goes for many of things. Buying online definitely has it's pros and cons.
It gets even worse... when you are from Europe and most of the well-known cottage brands are US based.
@@skyfly-2 There are dozens of european cottage brands as well, they're just not really easy to find.
@@gl0tchdj I'd like to buy a light quilt for warm temperature... But on a base price of 250 I have to add 50 only for US-EU shipping duties 💀 pls tell me you know some European ratailers (Besides Cumulus)
And there are often better options if you look outside your tiny window.
Yes, women backpacking gear reviews would be extremely appreciated. Thanks for clarifying types of backpack!
Over the past twelve years I have been slowly lightening my pack weight. I retired last year which has allowed me to do longer trips. I did the Long Trail In Vermont. That said I decided when I retired to finally go UL and I purchased my big three from Zpacks. I also lighted every piece of gear I own. My base weight is now about eight or nine pounds. It’s been a game changer. I am hiker bigger miles now in my 60s than I did thirty years ago. It’s possible when your pack weighs next to nothing. The nice thing is today you can go very light for not a lot of money. For example my old Granite Gear pack was under 2.5 or even lighter with the brain removed for 139.00 dollars. There is no need to be lunging a heavy pack any longer. It can be done for not a lot of money. My stove the BRS cost 15 dollars and is under one ounce. Toaks pot 2.2 oz about 35 dollars. Save your body now don’t beat it up for no reason.
Very helpful reply. Am curious if you have any neck or arthritis issues. I'm similar to you in age and am leaning towards a more traditional back despite the weight thinking that it may help my arthritic neck. To illustrate how much of an old fart I am, I'm getting rid of my _external_ frame pack, an old Kelty.
Great video!
One area where traditional or hybrid packs have a definite advantage is ventillated back panel (not the gimmicky ribbed foam inserts but where there is a definite air gap between your back and the pack). I would rather carry the 200-400g weight penalty of a ventillated pack (like the Osprey Exos) any day over a lighter pack that sticks to my back.
Gábor from Hungary
100%
Yeah this is the main reason I don't think I could ever give up on having a frame. The ventilation is an enormous comfort factor for me.
Although I would love to have better ventilation, I personally need one I can travel with. In Europe there's lots of trains or flights with size restrictions where the air gap would take away too much space.
I prefer the Deuter suspension system 😉
Traditional has been the way for me, as a relative casual to hiking/backpacking. I don't do glamping, but it's nice to be able to use whatever you have, and sometimes, that's durable, but heavy gear. As long as the overall weight is less than like 60 lbs, I'm good.
Yurp. I have all kinds of gear so I can just camp. With heavy gear and comfort . Or go light and backpack
wtf are you carrying with you to get over 50lb lol
also trad you can just chuck in airplane belly or toss it about without worrying about it breaking
@@himboslice_ Just heavier gear overall. Usually I keep it to less than 50 lbs though.
Please be aware that when you say "traditional packs are for people carrying heavy loads over x pounds", it depends on the size of the person too. I am small (around 50 kilos, narrow shoulders), so the situation is not the same for me as for a big man. Even a light pack is a substantial proportion of my bodyweight and I cannot comfortably carry much weight at all on on my shoulders. I tried ultralight packs and it was miserable. A few years ago I switched to a Fjällräven Abisko 65, which is a heavy tank of a rucksack, and never looked back. Having the weight effectively transferred to my hips makes SUCH a difference. With this one, I can comfortably carry 17 kilos all day, whereas before, I struggled with 7 kilos.
So yeah, smaller people: counterintuitively, a heavier pack might actually make things easier for you. See if you can borrow some different ones from friends first and walk around with them fully loaded for a few hours.
Hmm no mention of exterior framed packs which can also come in ultralight versions (such as seek outside)? Generally used for expeditions, going deep in the backcountry, and/or hunting. If you have a lot of heavy gear/food to carry, a good comfortable external frame pack is a must if you have to carry 50-100+ pound loads.
Sometimes I get the impression that thru-hikers think they are the only ones who use backpacks in the outdoors.
We talk a lot about packs, and pack types, I applaud you for saying that not every pack fits every body. Everyone skips the important thing. Get your pack fitted by a professional. TO TELL YOU if the pack fits (we can’t tell if it’s comfortable, but we can tell if it fits) - and The pack stabilizing straps are called load lifters.
Would love a video or two on women-specific gear!
@@timg7627 I think it goes beyond just "women-specific" too, a lot of guys have different builds where women specific gear would be good for them. I have narrow shoulders and find that the women's versions of packs fit me better than the men's.
Aren't there women reviewers? Why would he test and review gear he doesn't use?
@@brittanybradford9239 he offered, so... Why not?
You should make videos about it! We need more women creators in the outdoor space!
You are a trans-phobe and should be cancel-cultured.
There is also some crossover from running vests happening, such as wider chest areas on the shoulder straps with storage pockets in front. Big fan of those as they make the pack sit more stable - especially when you run with it - and help you stay on top of your hydration and nutrition as you won't have to take your pack off to access all those things. Hopefully more packs will include those in the future.
Aarn packs, kiwis have been using them for years now. Everyone else is behind the times because apparently a correctly balanced and actually ergonomically designed pack is maybe a kilo or so heavier and so not worth it?... LOL
@@Shrouded_reaper Thanks for the tip. Very interesting looking packs, that I didn't know about. Probably pretty hard to get one here Europe. I was recently looking for a 30 L pack for fastpacking. Was turned off by the Montane Trailblazer for it's often reported durability issues. Ended up with the current Deuter Speedlite. Definitely not the most lightweight, but sits pretty well even for running. I was sceptical about the amount of front pockets, but I can actually access the lid pocket without taking the pack off, so that makes up for it. Overall pretty happy with this pack so far.
.. Nobody speaks of the true original backpack style of external frame ... for all weights but usually heavy loads on open trails .. not comfortable for bending and mountaineering but very comfortable on long flat treks .. strap harness is installed on frame and NOT on pack bag ,,making frame usable for other chores like gathering firewood or carrying game meat out off the mountain ... bags can be made of anything but usually canvas or goretex type materials ..
Don’t forget strapping a 30 pack to the frame 😀
@@Asdf-789 thank you for bringing in this historical aspect.
@@Asdf-789
No
The Kelty/Jansport/Karrimor were a breakthrough in backpacking packs
They had light aluminum frames with hip belts
They were very comfortable indeed and could take heavier loads
They had a higher center of gravity so they were excellent for trail walking
@@neemancallender9092 Alpenlite in the 70's too
Goretex??
Cordura nylon, maybe.
Thanks for offering to do a review on women-specific ultralight gear! I think that women's needs are largely ignored in the conversation and design of ultralight gear. I invested in a Durston Kakwa and knew right away the hip belt was going to cause my hips a lot of pain because it wasn't designed for female hips. I've done a lot of modding on the pack to make it work like it should on the other 50% of the population.
Love your channel. Always appreciate it when you flash up the metric conversion - metrics are what most of us out here in the world use 😊
I love watching your channel, because you provide your backpacking wisdom in a straightforward, succinct, and intelligent manner that inspires confidence in my own ability to get out there. Learning about women-specific gear would be icing on the cake! Thank you!
Very interested in women’s specific gear. Also, as a mom I’m frequently left carrying the bulk of the weight for the kiddo(s), making anything other than a traditional pack seem unreasonable. I’d love any recommendations that take backcountry kids into account.
I have never hiked until I did the Camino de Santiago in 2016.I bought an Osprey Atmos AG 50 and went with that.That will always be my mobile home.I’m planning to do the CDT and that Osprey is coming along.Btw,I was 51 at the time.
Way to go James! I’m going to check that puppy out!
I got the 65 and it's a bit too much but I love the comfort. Nice and breezy on my back all the time
I am a tall Woman - 6.1 - and I've searched for a long time. I wanted a light but framed Backpack, because I've issues with ma cervical spine. I found the Exped Lightning 60 and I'm very happy with it. Great bag 🎉
Very good channel, love it. Happy trails from Germany ✨
I see the appeal of ultra light but it feels like it is just a race to see who has the lightest pack out there. And then you are racing through the woods at breakneck speeds and not really enjoying the wilds. I think I will always use a traditional pack. I don't mind packing lighter gear, it helps make the hike easier. But ultralight is just not for me. I like to smell the flowers. But you do you.
Totally agreed brother. I see people talking about fast packing… like why?? I’d rather build strength with the minuscule amount of extra weight a traditional has. Super light gear tends to be just as expensive if not more like smh
Strongly agree, additionally I feel that a lot of UL gear feels very flimsy and fragile, both of my favourite packs are made out of triple digit denier cordura and I love the solid and secure feeling of them.
I'd rather lose pack weight by not bringing much than by buying expensive gadgets that wear down in a year.
Plus, you spend a LOT more money on these UL packs than seems logical. When you're only making a tubular bag and sewing some straps on it, you don't need to go with expensive materials for it to still be UL. Just how much should a tubular bag with some straps sewn on cost?
I'm interested in women specific gear! I do have a long torso though, I'm not sure if there's more to the difference in packs than that.
Same hat! Unfortunately there is a difference other than back length and it's a pain! Usually the shoulder straps are curved more/differently so that they don't press uncomfortably into the sides of the breasts and the hip straps are more concave on the inside and better cushioned on traditional packs to avoid the uncomfortable flat strap sitting straight on the bone situation many women deal with with the average backpack
It's hard to find packs like that with a longer back length though:/ fixed length packs are pretty much out but some with adjustable back lengths are adjustable enough (for me, 1.85, at least)
Excellent video! I've been transitioning from traditional packs to ultralight and love the change. Before changing my pack, had to change several other items (quilt and tent being the most expensive and biggest weight savings).
I think I'll still use the traditional pack in the winter sometimes (SO MUCH GEAR!) but most other times it will be the UL pack for me!
This channel has a very clear voice. Even the humor is well done.
REI Flash 55 is an awesome hybrid pack. It’s modular and can be between 2 and 2.5 lbs.
Really well edited. Such a concise video.. no messing around!!
Well, here is the deal: ultralight is needlessly expensive. The total cost of all gear will be in the thousands very fast if one is to pick everything from the shelf today and that is not something people want to do for a type of vacations that supposed to be budget. My take is this: get a traditional backpack or a hybrid and as light of a tent as you can afford. those two will stay with you for a while, so invest in those. You can then spend any leftover budget on cheap (meaning heavy) gear that you will upgrade over time. Thus, you will upgrade your tent and backpack last. The once you had are to be donated to the next generation of campers/backpackers.
PS. seems like a video idea for you: what can you cheap out on (with the intent of upgrading in the future) and what should be bought premium outright? also, how to prioritize one's upgrades?
I agree that it doesn't seem like a tubular sack with a few straps sewn on should cost so much. You can use average materials and still be UL.
Building the kit can be a tough call, though. You can end up spending hundreds/thousands more buying gear that you sometimes absolutely know you will be replacing at the time you buy it.
I think we're on the same track, but I approach it more from the hike perspective (which often is incorporated in the gear-centric approach). Get that decent pack and tent, and that first season just do a few overnights with what you already have around you. Then go longer trips which require more gear, etc., and see how it goes.
I wouldn't really recommend spending much more at all to try to go UL until a person has done a section hike in which someone is dropping off in the morning and picking you up at the end of the day. A sleep system isn't necessary but you can pack a chair, food, etc., to make up for carrying less weight with those systems. If you decide that going 16-20 miles in a day is something you enjoy, then work on lightening up for the future. But a LOT of us got lighter gear with through hiking in mind, only to realize we found it to be boring as dog sh!t and that we were more vertical hikers than horizontal hikers.
Take care.
Would love to hear more about women specific gear! Not sure how popular it would be but I find that most of the gear reviews are from the perspective of men, especially tall men.
I’m hoping to buy a pack soon but not being able to hear reviews from another 5 foot curvy lady like myself makes me hesitant to pull the trigger.
Agreed
yep, i prefer framed packs as that's what i'm used to and like the stability it gives for bulkier items but my daughter is just getting into backpacking and is just over 5 foot and curvy. Need to get her a backpack for next year's trip but not sure which to get her. Definitely needs to be padded on the shoulders though.
To the person who said "should probably look for a female youtuber then" and who either deleted their comment or had their comment deleted, FYI I was responding to a question from MLO and perhaps if you had watched the entire video, you would have known that. 🤷♀
Yes, a video on women-specific gear please!
double YES!
Don't forget to take a look at the superb, if expensive, Osprey Aether Pro 70 (or 65 for women) packs. Stripped down to essentials and weighing 4 pounds or less, the suspension system also incorporates some advantages that external frame packs used to have. Very comfortable, even for heavier loads, I turn to mine once Osprey's Exos starts to be overloaded.
Traditional packs are always better than anything else. They have far superior suspension systems, much better padding, can transport weight efficiently causing less fatigue on the wearer and last longer. A heavier pack with a better build will always be better than a lighter pack with an inferior build and will allow the user to put in more miles with more comfort. It's like driving a Honda Civic across the country vs a Cadillac.
Sure, the Civic will save you gas money, but it'll tire you more because you're not as isolated from the road as you'd be in the Cadillac. That's why the best packs are never referred to as the "Civic" of packs! LOL It's almost always the "Cadillac" of packs. Plus, a traditional pack with 15lbs in it will feel lighter than an ultralight pack with 15lbs in it. The ultralight pack will feel heavier even "if" the traditional pack weighs on average 3 more pounds, but that's 3 more pounds of padding & suspension that no ultralight pack can match.
I remember from the 1970s hearing about the necessity of transferring pack weight to the hips. At almost 70, and doing long distance hikes (over 200 miles) occasionally, I absolutely HATE having much weight on my hips. I rarely carry as much as 30 pounds, total, after resupply and often max out at 24. Last week I did a short 42 mile hike to complete the Appalachian Trail in sections over 40 years, and carried some unnecessary gear (Kelly Kettle and wood processing tools), bringing my pack weight up to 24. My hips were killing me until I cinched the shoulder straps all the way up and tightened my sternum strap quite a bit. My pack had been sitting on the muscles on top of my hips, which constantly move while I am hiking. Shoulder muscles don't move nearly as much, and I had no shoulder pain at all.
My pack is a ULA CDT. I have been carrying frameless packs since 2004. I make a "frame" by rolling a closed cell foam pad into a tube and insert it into the pack and stuff my gear into the tube, with everything protected by a contractor trash bag.
I have had my backpack sit on my hips "muscles" for too long too and cause discomfort. I am skinny and wonder how much that played in this.
Thank you for making short videos, it’s easier to watch!
I ended up going for an Osprey Exos 48. It’s only 2.85 pounds, comfortable as hell, and can carry heavy loads. I was gonna go for the Hyperlite 3400 Southwest but it doesn’t have great padding, gets more uncomfortable the more you put into it, and I’ve heard some people say that their backs get super sweaty from it. I don’t think backpacking is about going super light to the point where you’re sleeping on rocks, or super heavy to the point where you’re wearing a house on your back, but somewhere in the middle between weight and comfort. And that can mean a different bag for different people.
I think it depends on what type of backpacking your doing. If your a weekend worrier and doing low miles or your very young and super fit it does not really matter much. If you are doing big miles day after day it certainly does. The majority of through hikers I know go UL because it’s necessary because doing 100 plus week after week takes it toll on you. I have also met many people who purchased their gear super cheap used. I met someone last week who had a Hyperlite and paid 100 dollars used. I have sold lightly used gear very cheap because I moved on from that gear. I do not sleep poorly because I am UL, my quilt is super warm, my pad is very good and my tent have never leaked. Again if you hike only once in a while it really does not matter. I guess my question is why do you want to carry a heavy load? The gear is so light there is no need to carry a heavy pack. That pack you have is a nice pack.
@@mtadams2009 True. If you're one of the microscopic percentage of people who buy packs who are through hikers, it definitely makes a difference.
Throwing it out there; I have a Bonfus pack, and I like it a lot! But for some added comfort that I can easily put on or remove, I grabbed a Ventapak attachment. It is this lightweight spacer that goes between the user's back and the bag; creating space or a gap for airflow - they are less than 1 lbs in weight, which I know is still a stretch for gram weenies, but I like that it can add variety in comfort for different bags that depending on the wearer may want more air flow on their back.
If someone struggles with sweat on their backs after purchasing a pretty expensive bag, the Ventapak attachment may be worthwhile at not a terrible price or weight! Also after looking at some reviews for the Ventapak, they have had older issues with some of the clips not being up to snuff, BUT reviews have consistently stated that the company sent replacements as needed and have since updated the buckles in their newer Ventapak products to limit the weak buckles. So another good company to support
I've carried every kind of pack from A-frame Bergens in the 60s through external frames in the 70s to internal framed and frameless "ergonomic" packs in the 80s and 90s. I've been using a frameless(*) 60-65L Alpine pack from 1982 for the last 40+ years and after watching some TH-cam channels decided I needed something lighter. Then I weighed my ancient Cordura pack - 2lbs 5oz! Maybe I don't need a new pack after all. My current baseweight is 15lbs in summer and 20 in winter. I find it pretty comfortable to carry so I'll just try to lose a few ounces somewhere else. Thanks for the video, I didn't learn too much but it was well presented.
BTW I love GGG, I just wish it didn't cost so much to ship stuff to the UK!
(*)My frameless pack actually has a stiffened closed cell sitmat that slips down the back to give it some support, like a removable frame that doubles up as a sitmat.
Or use a traditional pack with ultralight gear inside. Just because they are designed to comfortably carrying heavier loads doesn’t mean you have to. Once upon a time I went down the ultralight trail. Now I use a 5.5 lb hammock setup including insulation and carry a camp chair. I sleep better and sit better while resting my back against the chair. And while not a thru hiker I do go long distances, got an 8 day trip next week.
Love your videos, alway very complete and informative. I have so much trouble choosing my backpack because most stores have no stock available right now. I would definitely like to hear more about women gear to maybe help me order a good pack. Keep up the good work!
You might want to try the Mariposa packs. They can only be ordered online. I’m a woman and I found their pack the most comfortable for me. Well padded hip belt & shoulder straps, but very lightweight overall. No brain, no frame and the back pad doubles as a comfortable seat cushion at camp. Lots of TN hikers lov❤e them. Not too bad of a $$$ either.
I would love a video for women-specific gear! I've been wanting to get into backpacking, and a lot of your videos give such a detailed and thorough test of gear and I love it!
I have ten different packs that I use regularly. I built what I call my pack tree out of a tree bole with branch stubs to hang the packs. I never leave home without putting on a pack. If I did, I would feel naked. I don't drive so a pack serves all my shopping needs not to mention my hiking treks. Great video. I enjoyed it very much. I have a Hyperlite Porter pack among my more ancient ones.
This is me minus the pack tree. A pack tree is my new aspiration and will be the ultimate shyt test for my girlfriend before I ask her to marry me and live in an old rusty tugboat with no electricity.
As far as I know there is one more type of backpacking, which I belong to. It's where you use a tubular frame rucksack to carry all of your property to the middle of nowhere and back. In this setup you don't look at how much a piece of gear weighs, but at how reliable it is. This is the type of backpacking me and my friends do in scouts here in FInland.
example of a tubular frame rucksack is the Savotta Jääkäri XL
Gorgeous cameo of the Durston Kakwa!
I like a traditional pack because I tend to do more camping and less walking so I like having lots of gear. I also often have a canoe so I don’t need to carry my bag much at all and love all the lashing options for larger tools that the osprey you used for an example has.
I'd love to hear more about women's-specific gear! I didn't know that traditional packs are made to carry more than 30 pounds most of the time. Not an ultralighter, but because of what I've read on how much I can pack at my bodyweight (125-130 lbs) I try not carry a whole lot more than that anyway and yet I have a traditional pack for some reason...
.. Before all this Ultra light and lightweight came into the recreat I on game ,, it was common to carry half your body weight or more... of course we were not hiking 20 plus miles every day ... for 6 months ..
Always appreciate advise directed for us ladies 😊
I’ve been selling packs for nearly 20 years, and I don’t think I’ve heard anyone call the hood or lid of a bag the brain before lol! I kinda dig it, it’s often where you put the smart things to carry.
Disclaimer, I work for an outdoor retailer and this is my own personal opinion, has nothing to do with the company I work for.
Same here. The “brain”? LOL. I call it the “Junk Drawer”. 😂
...the "brain" on many are detachable ,,when you set up camp can seperate and use as a fanny pack or slingbag .. great for short treks to a fishing lake or top of a mountain for photo's ...
When I bought my dueter from REI 10 years ago the sales lady called the hood a brain. I assumed that was what it was supposed to be called.
Make a video addressing gear snobbery in the ul backpacking community
I would be very interested in women specific reviews and info! Thank you! Love ❤️ watching your vids!
I'm old enough to consider 'traditional' packs to have external frames. I still prefer them, even for modest loads. If you've never used one, you don't know what you're missing
I agree. External frame packs are the true traditional pack. You trade a little bit of load close to body for the beauty of great airflow across your back. Much less sweat and a soaked shirt every time you stop for a break. I just wish that I had used hiking poles in the 70s with my frame packs, as those would have cancelled any disadvantage of a frame pack I can think of.
@@liamtaylor4955 Take a look at the Osprey Aether Pro packs, which carry like a traditional external frame pack that we loved.
I hear what y’all saying about ultra light but sometimes I just need to carry water, heaps of water, so a pack is going to have to be sturdy and comfortable. I just want options depending on where and how long I’m going and my shelter choices so I’m never going to get an ultra pack that doesn’t give the flexibility. Whatever it is it’s going to be expensive so it’s an investment in the future too. Pretty happy with my Macpac Tasman 45. Comfy, pretty light and forces me to leave tempting stuff at home because I can’t get much in it. The more food I need or water the less luxurious my other choices.
I have 100 liter Osprey but that's only for mountain expeditions. Food for 10-15 days, ropes, harness, carabiners, ice screws, storm tent etc. That's while going in a group of ~6 people. Empty weight 3kg/close to 7 pounds. That's what heavy duty backpacks are for.
This was great, thank you. I'm going to different countries in south east and east Asia for three months and wanted to take a lighter pack but I am definitely more of a prepared person so I think I should stick with the traditional pack. Just worried about how much my back will eventually hurt but it beats not having what I need with me.
I have boys that are just getting into scouting, backpacking, and camping. I’d love to see a video about what outdoor equipment you’d recommend for kids.
My experience with this was to start with smaller, durable, but not necessarily the primo gear. They grow so quickly that my son has gone through 3 sets of gear between crossover and late high school (we won't even touch the number of shoes). If they are in an active camping Troop, their gear will get beat to heck anyway, so you want stuff that works, but doesn't make you cry if you have to replace unexpectedly. Our Troop camps a lot, but it tends to be car or just couple mile hikes to campsites. I started buying the really good stuff when my son was prepping for Philmont, because weight mattered more and he grew out of all his gear a month before the trek. I've thrifted and went to discount stores to get that early stuff - just be really thorough in reading reviews so you know what you are getting. Some gear like stoves - check with the Troop to see how often the Scouts actually need them before buying. They may also have a gear shed where your kid can try a couple different backpacks and/or tents before you spend anything on them. Just pay attention to that packing list. I routinely loose my extra blanket, jacket, extra rope, knife, etc... to a Scout who "forgot".
My kids both used the Osprey Ace pack, it’s adjustable as they grow. My (short) wife even used it for a while until we went ultralight.
On the Hyperlites, the black material is stronger than the white! Not that ive seen anything negative for the white. They are amazing. My Unbound 55 in Black is perfect in every way, for me.
I started backpacking in my 50’s. First pack was an Amazon knock off to take before I even knew if I’d like backpacking. 2nd was a Gregory 70L. I named her big Bertha. She served me well, but in trying to save weight I slowly converted to lighter gear that ended up swimming in big bertha. I then bought Gregory’s version of ultralight, the Octal, very light, but straps hurt me unless it was summer and I didn’t have too much food and water to carry. Now I have the ULA Circut. Very light, the roll down vs. the brain took some getting used to but now I love it. I can pack light or heavier for multi-day. The only thing I don’t like is that no matter what, back gets soaked. This has made me careful to choose the right clothing, especially in cooler temps. I have now invested thousands into this hobby that kicks my but on most occasions, but I love it and feel fairly set…tho I would like to try a quilt vs. a sleeping bag someday. :)
Enjoying your channel.
That is a nice pack. I think that is why I went with the Zpack Arc Blast. You can adjust the arc in the pack giving you space between your back and pack. I colder weather I don’t even arc the pack. I did miss my brain too. I now use two DCF zipper bags to organize my stuff that I uses to store in the brain. Take care and enjoy that beautiful pack. I just pulled the trigger on a Zpack 20 degree quilt and used it this past week on a three day trip in Vermont. It’s super light about 19 ounces. The temps got down to about 25 degrees. I was fine but I would say my Western Mountaineering 20 UL is warmer, but also heavier. If the temps went closer to 20 degrees I would use my WM sleeping bag, other than that I am using the quilt. So light and also warm. Take care and enjoy your hiking.
Great video. As always a opinion, hey it's TH-cam so inevitable. Ventilation is just as important. I hike in Australia so a pack thats a bit heavier but doesn't make you loose LITRES of sweat it's worth the weight.
I just bought a pack and I watched this to see how my decision was. I ended up with the Alps Mountaineering Durango, and I love it so far. 2.7 lbs for a 45L pack and my gear loadout with water and food puts me right at 30lbs (including 5L of water) we'll see how well it holds it. I've carried 28 lbs and it felts pretty good, but we will see for sure.
To take a step further from what Lukas says, Aarn Bodypacks from New Zealand (but there is a US store) may look strange, but lemme tell you please, They Are Comfortable as all get out. Maybe it's for us older folk with back issues, but Aarn's design with front packs utilizes the straps distribute the weight to your hips. You can adjust the pack weight on and off your shoulders, on the fly. Pain gone! Miles and smiles. I don't have stock in the company, just want to spread the Aarn love.
Love your series; very informative in a no-nonsense presentation.
Just moved to AZ, and planning to get a pack for 2,3, 4 day trips R2R2R Grand Canyon each spring. Any
Advice on a pack which “might” work for 3 nights camping, but still light enough for a 2-day sprint where we aren’t carrying tent, stove, quilt, pad?
Hybrid ya think?
Final variable: 6’ 4” male…
Great series!
Thanks
I want to know more about women specific gear!!! :)
Something else to consider is duration of hike, not only in miles but days. I have 1 pack and it works well for everything for me, but I’m not a through hiker. I can take my 8 year old on a 3 mile overnight and carry extra weight/gear and it’s no problem. I can go on a solo multiple day trip with the same pack and it’s great. It weighs 2 lbs 10 ounces. Under $200. I think this pack gets hate because of its brand, and the attachments, which can be removed. Rei flash 55. Review plz?
I checked out that pack when it came out a couple of years after I bought the one I'm still carrying (Osprey Atmos 50). I think the Flash 55 is a great pack, moved and light while capable of carrying a bit more weight when necessary. I saw quite a few Flashes on the PCT this summer s when I worked on the trail.
Yes, I use my package until they die. I still have a couple of external frame packs I use for carrying heavy loads like wooden wilderness permit boxes or the heavy oak Wilderness signs, or saws and rigging for a logout. A pack should fit your size, comfort needs, and load needs, sounds like you've got that dialed in.
The Osprey looks awesome, really like the look of it, and the form.
It is great, I’ve got this pack and works well currently lugging around 15-18kg as carrying food supplies etc. for 2 kids in tow. Cant fault it so far
I have the same one as in the video and I will say it is a great pack. It is very comfortable and I don't feel sore after hiking, even with heavy loads. I tend to carry lots of weight and so having a pack that can balance that weight out is very nice
I use this Osprey for my summit camps. It is heavy but offsets its weight through comfort. I’m looking for ul dcf type packs since I’m getting old 😂
Always the best coverage of the topic at hand. Hope to see more in depth stuff rather than broad intro videos though!
I don't see a problem with the traditional packs like the osprey. Osprey is the most comfortable pack I have worn. you just have ultralight tent sleep system and other items lol. that's it thats all you have to do. the hyper light mountain gear packs are sh*t. lol. im sorry but they are. Its not rocket science. Get the osprey and have ultralight gear inside. my base weight w my osprey aether 55 is 15 lb.
All about women specific items when you can of course. I'm a fan of a frame, but in a modern way. Osprey tempest and mira have frames that allow for airflow. But for me, the important part is that the weight gets distributed better over my spine due to the mesh on these packs (because they have a frame). Other packs are pretty much padded and the spinal pressure doesn't feel good since part of my spine sticks out more. I learned this the hard way when I bought one without a frame.
I like light frameless but I also like lots of pockets. You don't usually get all 3 😢
Well, the top 4 comments on my feed would like more women's gear content, and I agree.
I've wanted to go backpacking again for years! But I have a heart condition, meaning that I have to go a lot slower and tend to need lighter gear. Knowing a bit more about what kind of gear could help me would be a big help!
traditional pack is more sturdy and more rugged looking, I'd never regret buying my osprey aether 55.
And to think when I started and hiked 3 sections of the JMT the ne plus ultra of backpacks was the external frame Kelty, you could drink the water from streams without a filter, use a svea stove, hike in killer cotton Levi’s and t shirts, wear a Pendleton and hiking boots, and we still survived with weights for young guys minimum 30-35 lbs for 9 days without Re supply and sleeping cowboy style or in plastic tube tents of the weather turned foul. My how times have changed.
Lol, great post. That's how I used to hike, too, and yup, with a Kelty external frame pack. Used to hang a ladle on the outside and when I crossed a creek I'd dip and drink without a care. I did appreciate switching to polypro from denim, though.
@@liamtaylor4955 we used the old “Sierra club cups” for that and as dishes/bowls. Good times.
I just ordered a couple of backpacks using REI garage sale. I may come back and watch this again when they arrive because honestly I don't know what I got! I've hiked a lot but never backpacked, planning some trips with my son this year.
Not everyone has access to lightweight expensive gear and not everywhere you can find lightweight food.
I hiked 11 days with a 23kg backpack, including water and food. Good luck finding lyophilized food in a small town in chilean patagonia. Had to carry 10 cans of fish (tuna, salmon)
Thanks to my traditional deuter aircontact I was able to comfortably do it.
Would love more info on women's gear, especially gear for petite women. At 5'2" I find most packs hang down past my hips even when the straps are all the way tight. Help! 😮
I'd enjoy a women's specific pack video, I feel like your reviews / loadout videos are informative without too much personal opinion.
I use the old English army bergen. It's awesome 😎
I would love to know what is different in the female versions of a back pack. Is it just a size thing? I’m 1.80 cm and not particularly bulky, so in most cases with gear, I will choose the male option! But I would love to learn more about it; if there is a reason why I might consider the female version
Sometimes location/weather dictates type. The ultralight/frameless don’t do so well with heavy, winter gear loads in super cold climates. When our August night time temps are the same as your winter temps then you can only get so low on your big 3. And if you’re physically used to packing that while postholing in snowshoes then anything less feels “ultralight” naturally. 🥾🏔❤️🇨🇦
And load carry packs like hunting packs… I switched from an Osprey Aether plus 70 to a mystery ranch hunting pack. For backpacking even.
I'd love a video on women specific gear. I just started getting into backpacking (did a solo trip for 9 days on the Isle of Skye in Scotland which was a big learning experience but I loved it) and now I have three other women (including my mom!) who want to come along with me and try it out. I didn't do much research in to the women specific sizing because I'm 5'-10" with a long torso so generally things sized for men tend to fit me better anyway, but with helping my mom and friends find gear I'd really like to be able to understand the differences and the intended design changes.
I will say that I tried on a Deuter traditional pack at my local REI and all the padding hurt! I tried on the Osprey Exos 58 which was a men's pack and sort of "ultralight" in the sense that it had way less bulky padding and such and it was infinitely more comfortable. My personal theory is that, being plus-sized, my bodyfat gives me enough "padding" and the big thick pads just create pressure points. For someone who has much less bodyfat that I do they would probably really want or need that extra padding but for me just having the straps lay on my hips correctly allowed my bodyfat to distribute the load just fine. I carried 30+ lbs and probably made a thousand mistakes but my pack never felt painful and most of the time was surprisingly comfortable.
So, super nice vid, i'll walk for 12 days beyond the polar circle this summer, fully auto sustained, i have all the gear, pretty lightweight but for the backpack, idk ultralight is fragile sometimes...
Terrific overview, thank you!
I'd like to get a hybrid pack. Does anyone have any recommendations for budget friendly options? $100-150 max but the cheaper the better.
Flash55 is the best hybrid pack. Wait for the REI sale
so im an infantrymen ive been making alot of my own gear because NIR compliant fabrics are a need, rn im building a UL style pack out of a much heavier duty fabric than most of the UL bags and its current form packed im at 34lbs with food but not water closer to 40 with it but i only carry 2 liters which is alot less than most dudes i work with
LOVE my new Nashville Pack!
I have an ultra light style made out of xpac and I really like because it is still light but pretty heavy duty as well for me the reason I went with it was the size was customizable and my torso length wasn't right inbetween sizes like some of the other companies I was looking at
I'm not sure if I'll go to a traditional one in the future I'd maybe intertain a frame less for fast packing one day on a weekend trip
I would consider an ultra bag eventually but they are soo expensive there are tons of other things I would rather grab with spare money for now but it would be nice to have a smaller bag for smaller solo trips (no dog)
I would love a women’s gear episode! I’m getting ready for a 9 day trek at Philmont with my son for Boy Scouts. Thank you!
Hm, I am going on a 450 km / 280 miles hike in two weeks. I currently have a framed hip-belt 35 L backpack weighs about 950 grams / 33,5 oz which I have tested on long hikes before. Should I stress to order a hyperlight one when I need to carry food for the first five days? Its a bit hard to calculate how much water I need to carry, but I need at least two liters at a time.
I am going to sleep indoors, so I dont need to carry a tent and only carry a silk liner.
traditional bag (against UL) usually have better form, frame, storage compartment and better support to the shoulder, back, waist... end up after years of searching... i have taken up the hybrid, Granite Gear Crown 2 60L...
Nice, informative yet concise video
I'm a complete beginner and I'm going on a moderate hike for my first time, what bag would work best for me? To give you some details its a 3 to 4 hour hike in a loop 7miles long not that bad, and I'm not looking to do overnight, just needing some guidance to understand what pack works best for something like this
In Europe you can still buy a traditional backpack with a external aluminium frame and over 100 litres (over 26 gal) capacity.
This video has a huge load of information
I learned a lot of terms from this video. Thanks!
Any recommendations for packs that can carry 100lbs of gear for long treks without the straps breaking?
Know like Big Badminton Bags, is this more fit or that? If imagine this is about the same, if add-on a hooking ring for Sling Shoulder or Diagonal Way of Carry?
osprey seems to be the go to pack....comfortable and a space on the back solves the sweat issue...
Another fab and informative video, i would definitely appreciate the woman specific gear side of things. Keep up the awsome work 😊
Yes please!! Please DO talk more about gear suitable for women, and if there is any difference!
I love your channel regardless!! But if you do decide to talk more about female targeted stuff, I'd definitely feel more seen!!
Thank you again!! ❤❤🤗
This video basically summarizes my biggest issue with backpackers: They never look outside their own little world of companies that target backpackers. My Kuiu hunting pack is 66L and under 4 lbs even with an internal frame. It's tough, durable, and insanely comfortable with thick hip belts and good load lifters, meant to carry heavy loads of meat. It makes it a breeze for backpacking, yet despite the size, weight, and comfort....you'll never see them mentioned even though you even highlight a heavier pack.
Looking for as light as possible, with frame, but, for weekend backpacking, 2nights, 3 days, don't want loud crunchy dyneema etc...
I would be interested in how you would do a video on women’s specific gear.