What's some NEW WINTER GEAR you've recently picked up for cold weather Backpacking? What's something you won't hit the trail in Winter without??? 🥶 👇Let Us Know Down Below!👇
Try Keen boots to. Properly insulated for cold weather activities , wide toe box like Altas, not heavy, set up for gaiters and great winter tread pattern.
Feathered Friends Flicker Quilt allows you to use it everywhere between a blanket, quilt, to head-less sleeping bag. Like an Outdoor Research Down Beanie on cold nights
Hi Darwin, I've been following you for years and you've even been a good source of inspiration for me. But today, for the very first time, I have to disagree with you. I'm Canadian. I live in the upper Laurentides and been to the great north quit a few times. So I guess I know a bit about winter..... And I can say that I would never go mountaineering with the sleeping system you have. Never. It's even worst considering that you're saying to be a warm sleeper. You're in for some very unpleasant time with that gear. Gossamer Gear pad: There's no insulation with this thing. It's rate 0.5. ZERO point five. So in reality, probably like ZERO point twenty five (0.25). This pad is heavy considering what it'll do for you: nothing. I suggest a good old winter pro tip: Reflectix. Do you know that Arctic explorers, like Larsen, are covering the bottom of their tent with Reflectix? Less than $20 for a big roll. And if you want to boost it to a furnace level, have some reflectix under and over your sleeping pad. It's the way Reflectix works best. Quilt: Quilt in very cold temperature? non-sense! Get a good sleeping pad like the NEMO Kayu, or a Western Mountaineering of Feather & Friends. You'll be toasty with one of those. Not with a quilt. SLEEPING PAD The Thermarest UberLite has a R-value of ...2.3 only. That's absolutely a no go in winter Darwin. And the Xlite NXT has an R-value of 4.5 wich is okay for spring and fall but not winter. Here's a comparison chart I made for everyone to see: Neoair UberLite Mummy Regular 72x20 Height: 2.5" R-value 2.3 250g Neoair XLite NXT Mummy Regular 72x20 Height: 3.0" R-value 4.5 370g Neoair XTherm NXT Mummy Regular 72x20 Height: 3.0" R-value: 7.3 453g Tensor Extreme Mummy Regular 72x20 Height: 3.5" R-value: 8.5 472g Neoair XTherm NXT Rectangular Regular-Wide 72x25 Height: 3.0" R-value 7.3 650g Tensor Extreme Rectangular Regular-wide 72x25 Height: 3.5" R-value 8.5 625g Neoair XTherm NXT Rectangular Large 77x25 Height: 3.0" R-value: 7.3 680g Tensor Extreme Rectangular Long-Wide 76x25 Height: 3.5" R-value: 8.5 662g In short, for WINTER time... PAD THICKNESS The NEMO Tensor Extreme is 3.5" thick where all Thermarest are 3" thick only. And worst for the UberLite with a very thin 2.5". Advantage: NEMO R-value The warmest rectangular Thermarest pads are 7.3 only, where the Nemo reaches 8.5. Advantage: Nemo Weight: All thermarest pads, mummy or rectangular, with a proper winter insulation, are heavier than Nemo. 650g vs 625g and 680g vs 662g (and this with a lower R-value 7.3 vs 8.5, and thinner pads 3.0" vs 3.5"). Advantage: Nemo on all counts. P.S. your new pot is awesome. I'll buy one IF available in Canada. Otherwise shipping and custom fees will make it way too expensive.
@DiabloOutdoors Hey! Where I appreciate your well thought out comment & kind words, I'm not sure you heard what I said in the video. #1 - I stated that this stuff was for "General Winter Backpacking" & if I were to do a more hardcore mountaineering trip some of this would change & I would swap it out for other items deepening on the trip. #2 - I would never use an Uberlite or an Xlite on a mountaineering trip or even a winter backpacking trip. As I explained in the video, This is why I've switched to an XTherm.
If you are winter camping up in mountains and all water is frozen, you'll need a bigger pot for melting snow. A rule of thumb for the ratio of snow to water is 10 liters of snow will make 1 liter of water. You'd need to fill and boil your 750ml pot 13 times to get 1L of water. I do group camping in winter and we bring a 3L aluminum pot, (which nests in the bottom of my backpack so doesn't take up space), for melting snow so that we can make a lot of water for cooking, drinking, and for making hot nalgene to put inside sleeping bag at night. You can combine this with a white gas stove like Whisperlite, or a propane stove. (Propane boils at
A great trick I’ve learnt for staking in the snow - find sticks and bury them in the snow as a deadman anchors. Then you can pull the guylines through when you pack up. A ton of time and effort digging out your stakes when the snow is rock hard in the morning.
Two ideas for shoes from Montana: Kennetrek insulated boots work well sheep hunting in the Beartooths or elk hunting anywhere in the mountains. For winter walking in sneakers, put a gorilla tape over the toe box to reduce airflow which will keep out some snow as well. Then put a toe warmer on top of your toes over the wool sock. The reduced airflow works well by itself from the tape, but it’s really helpful to regulate the airflow to the toe warmer so you don’t burn yourself and they last longer. Toe warmers can be cut open when you’re done, and composted on trail in your cat hole, just take the sack with you. I add gaiters, and costco $10 ice chains to my sneakers as needed. The gorilla tape stays on good til about Easter. If you use knee high gaiters on the kennetreks, it will help keep your shins from the snow and cut the wind, ultimately keeping your feet warmer. Thanks for tip about stove. I was just about to get a pocket rocket.
Nice to see you in a Norrøna sweater! As a scandinavian guy its great to see you use a Norwegian brand. We cut our clothes differently. Most nordic people like me are thin and tall and you seam to have that build! I always use there jacket (GTX) because those are the only ones that fit good. All the american brands are to short in the back and cant cover the but and the arms are always to short for the right size. 🤘🏻
Thanks for sharing. I have been working on my winter skills I use the Whisper light Stove For winter camping .I struggle with canister stoves.also 1000ml pot larger pot helps if you need to melt snow ❄️
Agree, Whisperlite and 750ml-1000ml pot for snow melt. Also, UL Nalgene for hot water bottle use at night, add a reflective cozy for daytime heat retention (mid-day hot coffee sips).
@@UncleGeorgeTV ... For reflectex ,, check dumpsters at any construction site near you ... use by AC contractors to cover vent runs ,, and the throw away many very large pieces ... usually allowed to have for free ...
I'm in the same situation about winter footwear... Something beefier than a trail runner, but not as beefy as an insulated winter boot. I'm going to give a pair of lightweight, uninsulated, waterproof hiking boots with thicker wool socks and high gaiters a try. I ordered the Adidas Terrex AX4 Mid Gore-Tex. Their Terrex line has worked for me in the past. May try insulated waterproof socks too. I'm hoping these will work in snow up to just below where snow shoes would be useful. That's a great pot design, especially the wood knob. I'll probably grab one next year.
I did not read through most of the comments... The venerable UCO candle lantern. This is a 4 season "must" for me. 9 hr Citronella candles for 3 seasons. 12 hr beeswax candles for light & additional warmth during the winter.
When I was in the army I kept a metal coffee can with a large candle buring in my canvas shelter half (plus the other guys half) and the candle alone kept our space toasty all night. So I see where you are coming from. Amazing what a candle can do in a small space.
I've recently gotten interested in winter camping and backpacking, so I'm really excited to see what all you get into this winter. If you have figured out a way to avoid or significantly limit sweating while you're hiking or snowshoeing in the winter, I'd love to hear your tips. I'm working on adjusting layers, but haven't gotten it worked out yet. Have fun this winter!!
Be bold, start cold. Don’t wear so much that you’re warm, warmth is for breaks, camp, and sleeping (hopefully.) While moving you want to be “comfortably cold,” meaning you feel the cold but it’s not affecting you. Staying dry is the single most important thing in winter.
@@philsmith2444 Thanks for replying. Often my arms are pretty cold and I still am sweating on my back. I'm learning to avoid the puffy while hiking and use my rain coat instead over base layers, but that sometimes gets pretty wet from the inside. I've started playing with lighter base layers and using gloves to help keep my arms warm instead of relying on the layers
I’m moving away from hardshells for everything but rain and high wind protection. Softshells ventilate much better and protect from moderate precipitation & wind. But for me, even a softshell is too much when temps are much above 10F, a midweight merino shirt over a short sleeve synthetic T-shirt is much better when hiking or snowshoeing. Even then, if it’s sunny I’ll have the merino shirt sleeves pulled up pretty soon.
I love the pot design! Has all the features you could ever want! I always hated the little metal ring you’d need to pick up to remove the lid. Quite literally the reason I stopped using a stove and started cold soaking. The wooden knob is such a great solution! My only worry is packing it down in my bag. I hope the lid stays flush with the top of the cookpot when you invert the lid (so the knob is down) just so that little bit of extra volume is saved 🙂 I’ll happily be buying one when it launches to try it out.
Ivd also just blown the kids inheritance on upgrading. I’ve bought two new tents: A 2p Bonfus Midus (DCF) and a Hilleberg Rogan (free standing) with upgraded DAC poles. I’ve also upped to the latest Thermarest xtherm which has a R value of 7.2 and is slightly thicker (comfort?) than the R6.9 version. That is paired with my O° UBQ overstuffed quilt. I always put away my Soto windmaster in the winter and pull out my super efficient Des Cattys alchohol stove along with the Soto Extending jet lighter. I’ve also added a couple of sets of Danish Equipment base layers as well as some down filled over trousers and some goose down socks. Also the latest Decathalon down filled parka which I’m is so warm that I’m going to marry it. In other words a whole new world of gear. I’ve also upgraded my pack to the latest Atom 60 as well as upgrading my dogs backpack, his thermal sleep system (he also has a Thermarest) and a down filled quilt. My winter footwear are a pair of Evo Barefoot boots which are simply without equal.
Upgraded the gloves to Showa 282 with the surplus wool gloves as liners. Helps with drying things out more easily and having options in different conditions. They block wind and rain and keep heat in when it's super cold. Probably also the option that gets more bang for the buck.
Since you're already using Topo Athletic Shoes, you might like to try the Topo Trailventure 2 WP for colder wetter conditions (not hardcore snow). Slightly higher around the ankles, slightly better support, keeps your feet warmer.
I worry I'd burn that wooden lid grab handle to charcoal setting the pot in a fire. 👀 Maybe an unfounded concern though. I love that you added a bale and pour spout! I love my X-Therm. I'm a very cold sleeper and I love it. I wish the Outcast had more room for hips. Looking forward to more of your winter videos and gear tips. Ive had good experience with the big orange snow stakes especially once I learned to use them correctly. 😅 I still had a little trouble with them coming loose in high wind is all. Many thanks for the Vargo DigDig dual use tip! Have fun out there and stay safe!
Cool to see you get in to winter backpacking and mountaineering! I'm a mountaineer and winter backpacker from Washington State. I don't know the exact circumstances your going to be backpacking in, so my advice may not apply. Here in Washington State, we get deep snowpack in the winter. Last trip I did was November 27th, and I set up my tent on 4 feet of snow. That was somewhat low snowpack for that time of year at 5000 ft elevation. By the end of the season, the North Cascades receives on average about 50 feet of snowfall (with a good 20ft depth) at mid-level elevations (4000-6000 ft). As you can imagine, sourcing liquid water in those conditions is basically impossible. In drier climates, you can bash through the ice on a lake with your ice axe and get to liquid water. When theres 10 feet of snow on top of the ice, its not really plausible. So I have to melt snow for all of my water, including drinking water. Bringing snow to 33F liquid water takes almost as much energy (and fuel) as bringing 33F water to a boil. So I'm doubling my fuel consumption right there. On top of that, all my drinking water is being boiled because filters freeze and break in the cold. So I'm boiling 12 liters on a 2 day trip instead of the normal 1-2 liters. As such, fuel efficiency is SUPER important for me. Remember, Isopro doesn't really work below a certain temperature, and the canister cools itself off through evaporative cooling due to the state-change of the fuel from liquid to gas as you use it. If you are using an Isopro stove in the winter (I do) its important to ensure the canister stays warm-ish. I put a hand warmer under it while I'm boiling water to keep the canister from cooling down too much. Make sure that whatever heat source you are using to warm the canister isn't TOO warm, as heating the canister up too much can cause it to explode. If the source isn't hot enough to burn you, it shouldn't be dangerous to put against the canister. I substantially prefer a remote-canister stove for winter use. It make it easier to warm the canister during use without worrying about it tipping over, and it also allows me to flip the canister upside down to use it in liquid feed mode if the canister gets too cold. I use the MSR Wind Pro II. Its a little heavier, but its much more useful. Another feature to look for in a remote canister stove is a pre-heat tube. This is where the fuel line passes through the flame before entering the burner head to heat and evaporate the fuel when in liquid feed mode. This feature is needed for upside-down canister operation. Titanium is very lightweight. Unfortunately it has a low thermal conductivity. That means its ability to transfer heat from the flame to the water inside is much lower than aluminum. As such, when running the stove, you will get lower fuel efficiency using a titanium pot than you will with an aluminum pot. Its tempting to go for the lighter pot, but its possible you will have to bring more fuel to compensate. That really depends on if you can source liquid water or if you have to resort to melting snow. Where I live go may be colder than where you are going, but for me, a rain jacket in the winter is often unnecessary because I will be in below freezing temps and above snowline the entire trip. I prefer a Soft-shell jacket instead. a soft-shell jacket does just as well in wind and snowfall as a rain jacket, while being WAY more breathable and doubling as a warm mid-layer. It will also handle wet snow and drizzling rain for a short time if I'm going to be below snowline for a very short amount at the beginning/end of my trip. Obviously, if I'm spending any meaningful amount of time in possible rain conditions, i bring the rain jacket. I suggest checking out the Scarpa Zodiac Tech boots. They are mountaineering boots, but they are not full shank, so they have a little flex (more than the Aequilibrium, but MUCH less than typical hiking boots). If they fit your feet, they are amazing boots. Otherwise look at similar boots from other brands. "flexible" mountaineering boots are great. They have gotten me up a lot of scrambles and glaciers over the years without killing my feet. I have full shank boots when I need them, but don't use them often. I use ultralight non-free standing tents in summer, but I use a free standing double wall tent in the winter. I use the Tarptent Moment DW Li. I love it. I strongly recommend against the Big Agnes Copper Spur. Ive used it a few times, and sold it. It does not handle wind very well, and I broke poles multiple times, and had more than a couple nights with the tent bending in the wind so much I was worried about damage and didn't sleep at all. Winter (at least where I live) is much windier than summer, and I regularly deal with 30+ mph winds. Regular stakes just don't work in snow at all. You should learn to dig dead-man anchors to anchor your tent. Anything else isn't going to be acceptable in deep snow on a windy night. For that, you would use snow stakes. I recommend the MSR snow stakes. They weigh a lot less. The REI ones are overkill. There are also a few copycats on Amazon for cheaper, and they still work just as well. In the off chance you read all that and actually want to know more, feel free to ask.
So excited to follow your winter backpacking journey this year. I've been trying to figure out my gear for winter backpacking over the last few years, based on my own comfort level. It's been a LONG process for me. I feel like this might be the year that I finally get to sleep overnight in my tent on snow without freezing my butt off. Thanks for the inspiration to continue figuring out how to hike in and camp on snow comfortably. :)
I have a pair of Toundra Forces Climasalomon from Salomon and they're awesome. Just finished 2 days with 8+ inches of snow, temps doing to 10, and it was warm and did not get wet for the whole trip. Feels like a hiking boot, acts like a mountaineering boot
I used the MSR Evo Ascent and it so much better. For getting up to peaks they have a stand off on the heel that makes going up steep inclines feel like stairs
Thanks. Interesting. The zpacks free standing duo is hopeless with strong wind and any snow. The vargo dig dig is indeed the best with its saw teeth, just a bit sharp on its top edge.
I can manage with flexible crampons on Keen Targhee Mids during winter. Unless you're front-pointing or in deep cold, you don't really need heavier-weight boots.
Hello 👋 Darwin, thank you for sharing another informative video. With this equipment, you are set for just about anything that Mother Nature will throw at you. Stay safe out there. 😊
I have upgraded to the Slingfin Hotbox and can't wait to try it! Also got a remote canister stove that allows me to invert the canister and put a wind screen around just the burner. Picked up the basic down pants from Cumulus and they are incredibly warm for their weight. They are great for late fall and mild winter conditions where I am at. They make hanging around camp much more comfortable and supplement my sleep system.
I winter camp at altitude with temps down to zero. I use the Nemo Disco 15 and sleep in an expedition weight baselayer. I have those goose feet gear booties you recommended years ago as a just in case. Thanks for that. They are so awesome. Ive never been cold. Always toasty.
If you like that Samaya, you might also like the Black Diamond Firstlight--it's the same classic "Bibler" design, but in a much more affordable nylon fabric (or maybe it's poly). I've never actually used mine for winter (just shoulder seasons), but I think it's still a pretty popular lightweight option for when it snows rather than rains. But looking forward to following along with your winter gear journey!
I have a Marmot Hammer that’s the same design. Right around 3lb if you leave the vestibule at home, goes up pretty quickly but the Velcro pole straps inside the tent can be finicky. A LOT of frost from condensation even with both vents and the door partway open. Floor length is only about 84” so a high-loft sleeping bag touches at both ends. But it does the job and seems to handle wind well. I want to have pole sleeves sewn in it, though. assets.trailspace.com/assets/d/6/a/12074346/IMG_1153.jpg
Im with you and decided that winter does not have to halt the backpacking season. Went on my first snowshoe backpack trip last winter and though it sucked, am ready to do more with major adjustments. A. A spoon, trowel or tent stake does not make a good shovel when a shovel is needed. B. Extra lighter or emergency matches if something gets wet. C. REI “waterproof” gloves are anything but. D. Freestanding tent a must for me. E. Better system or more fuel if melting snow is your only water source. All in all, everything else worked great. Not cold with my gear, etc. Am looking forward to more suck.
The biggest thing I've upgraded for cold weather stuff is my sleep system and my clothes. I added the REI merino leggings to my kit, as well as the 120 gsm Alpha Direct hoodie from Superior Fleece, and a pair of fleece glove liners I got a few years ago from OR. For sleep, I got the ZenBivy Light Quilt 10 and I'll be staying on my Big Agnes Rapide SL pad, but adding a Nemo Switchback when needed. I'm also swapping out the Smart Water bottles for the UL Nalgenes so I can put hot water bottles in my footbox if needed. I'm in Georgia so the weather doesn't get as extreme as it does up north or out west, but we still get nights in the teens and they're usually wet and icy, but I think I'll be good.
This is great Darwin, glad to hear you’re getting into mountaineering! I’ve been into the winter camping for my objectives either summiting peaks, Splitboarding or just exploring. I’ve got a few tips to share. First off avalanche risk is huge and knowledge is paramount. I know you’re a smart guy so if you can take AIARE 1 class or just don’t go in avalanche terrain. Second with the shelter, I would go with something that can withstand heavy winds/snow. Winter is a different beast and your tent is your safety and shelter. It’s nice to have a winter specific tent bc they can handle the snow loads plus they are actually warmer believe it or not. I use the MSR Access 1. It’s lighter weight for a 4 season but still bomber. That Samaya is going to be great! Lastly, the snow stakes are great when used with a pit. Dig a nice size pit and burry the stake horizontally and attach the tent line with a clove hitch. This makes it easy to untie when it’s frozen in the morning. Also you want to add a couple extra feet onto those tie outs so you can burry then line into the snow. If that makes sense. I’m living in Bishop this winter if you’re around we can romp around the Sierra! Make it happen. Cheers! Andy
I camped in a lot of sand during my Oregon Coast Trail thru-hike this past summer, and I am very glad I brought four of the MSR snow/sand stakes with me. I love my groundhogs and mini-groundhogs, but dang, I need the snow/sand stakes on several occasions.
You'll laugh at how I sleep in -20° weather. I have a -0 CampMor rectangular sleeping bag. I use a 3/4 length TermaRest sleeping pad. Normally I sleep on the floor in a shelter because no one is there except for my older sons. Done this for many years. A couple of years ago I'Cowboy camp with a friend of mine. I slept like a baby. My friend froze. In the morning the snow was easily shaken off of my bag. In my bag I sleep in my T-shirt. Sometimes I'll throw a couple of hand warmers in the foot box. I'm stung as a bug in a rug. Enjoy your journey.
I’ve got a pair of Salomon insulated/waterproof “boots” (seems more like a beefy trail-runner) that I’ve worn in zero degree (f) weather and been comfortable with them paired with some Silverlight socks. That might be a middle-ground shoe for you…
Putting a wind breaker or rain jacket under your insulation layer can be warmer as it reduces air exchange. Most UL rain jackets are too slim and compress warmth. Outdoor Vitals taught me that. It works.
The Visp may not be robust enough for winter. I have a similar jacket for thru hiking, but use a full Gore-Tex Arctyrex jacket for winter mountaineering. I didn't see anything about what you will wear on your hands. I use a system of merino wool liner gloves, boiled wool mitts and Gore-Text over mitts. I can wear them in any combination and all together, they provide enough warmth for most days down to -15F. I have this setup duplicated in my pack for when they get wet (they inevitably do) and I can swap for a fresh pair. Also, I have a thin merino wool hat and a thicker hat I can wear instead or over that hat. A merino wool buff also comes in hand in winter. I can pull it up over the back of my head and wear in between the two hats as a modified balaclava. The goal here are systems. You don't want to sweat, but you invariably will. Good luck.
You've probably seen them already, but Topo makes a mid-height light hiker. They make the Trailventure 2 in waterproof and non-waterproof. As a Topo-lover, I'd try those light hikers if I had a need.
For winter backpacking, I recently bought a SmartWool merino beanie, a Kuiu Peloton 97 (a midlayer sun hoodie to put over my Patagonia Capilene Sun Hoodie)
I recently got Aegismax Down pants and booties. The matched well with my sleeping bag when the over night temperature dropped to -6C/21F. I'd recommend them.
Black Diamond Highlight 3P tent. Free standing.. sets up insanely quick and easy.. breaks down even faster. 2 full doors with screen mesh. Get the oprional vestibule if you plan on spending a lot of time in there during winter snow storms.. its a storm worthy tent that can handle wind and HEAVY snow loads.
Hey @DarwinOnthetrail long time viewer, I just wanted to give ya a quick shout regarding footwear since you've helped me so much on my outdoor adventures I wanted to return the favor. Alot of people prefer an overboot added to trailrunners to make a winter footwear system. The rigidity in winter boots helps with getting the full advantage out of traction gear like spikes, snowshoes, etc. So if you find a good approach shoe you like, you could combine the two; approach shoe + Overboot, and spikes for a system that would hopefully work well for you as an intermediary.
As middle of the road shoe I would recommend the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor Mid II GTX (WIde). Used a lot in many situations, love them. Ryan Jordan also uses them for winter backpacking
You said you were looking for something for a middle ground for winter camping I would suggest trying xero shoes new winter boot. I believe it's called the Alpine
A good friend recommended the "saucony endorphin trail mid" to me. They are a mixture of a waterproof trail running shoe and a lightweight hiking shoe. However, I haven't been able to test them myself yet and continue to use my "Scarpa Rush Mid GTX". Thanks for introducing your equipment and best wishes from Germany. ❤
I ridge run in Alaska and as far as a middle of the road shoe and ice/snow grip I wear Salomon Speedcross versions, Salomon ankle trail gators, with Kahtoola K10. You could wear these with any trail runners I suppose, but the I prefer the aggressive tread on the Speedcross shoes. Salomon does make a Speedcross version with a built in gator but I like to multipurpose.
I’m anxious to see you in action, you make good videos and you’re a very thorough , well disciplined individual with a goal when you do things. Fire maple remote canister stove with a preheat tube does well in cold weather for me plus it’s titanium and lite. You can turn the can upside down and the preheat will return the liquid to gas when it gets real ugly outside.
It’s obviously a bit heavier but I think the jetboil is in its element in winter. Lose some ounces on another item and you are at your same base weight with the jetboil
Woah you are using essentially the same bag and pad that I use. Although I usually throw the closed cell pad under my main pad because the inflatable pads will freeze and tear and are not cheap. I recommend the MSR WindBurner Stove. 60mph winds no problem. Little more weight but at -20C with 60 Mph winds it's nice to instantly have boiling water from snow. Some mountaineers I've known will swear by the liquid fuel systems for mountaineering. Not sure why but I've noticed it.
I found a coozy and drinking lid that fits my 750ml titanium cup. It is an excellent addition to my winter backpacking. I have taken it on 2 trips now.
I switched out my Hoka's Speedgoats and waterproof socks to Danner GTX boots for winter hiking in the Wasatch and Unitas Mountains. No more cold feet for me!
I punctured my Nemo Tensor last week on the Ouachita Trail on a 26° night in Oklahoma. I was glad I had the Gossamer Gear Thinlight pad under my Tensor. Not only a bit more protection from the cold, but also a little extra padding from the hard ground (wooden shelter floor). Word of caution if you're sleeping with a full CNOC in your quilt. Be mindful of where your CNOC is when you get up in the night to answer nature's call so you don't press the plastic clip into your sleeping pad. Pop! Doh!
On your stove you are going to need naphtha / Coleman fuel stove. Those canister stoves only work down to around 5 F or even less. You will likely need a wind screen on whatever stove you pick. You can get a foil baking pan and cut it to size. Cut a foil footprint also. Look up some Shug videos om winter camping. :)
... Or even easier to use a length of aluminum foil folded in half or thirds (your choice as needed) ,, works well and folds up flat ..... Can even cook on it if needed .. as improvised skillet ..
I enjoyed your discussion about your various winter gear choices and thoughts of why you made those decisions. I really like the looks of the Outcast jacket as well as the color choices. After checking the sizing chart, I realized the sleeves won’t work. I need a 35 sleeve in a shirt and ideally 36 in an outerwear jacket. Have you considered adding tall sizes to your inventory in the future? I know that EE offers that option in their custom Torrid jacket.
Talking about shoes, definitely check out the Salomon xa alpine 2, a great middle ground between the topo and the La Sportiva Equilibrium. Maybe the footbox is going to be a bit tight for you though... For the tent, what about the freestanding option from tarptent with the carbon pole ? Greetings from France 🤗
I like your videos! Just a small thing. It would be a cool little gesture to put a conversion from Fahrenheit to celcius on screen for us in the rest of the world 😉
The rei snow pegs work better s a Deadman anchor. They have a much too slick finish for any other use. Or use short pieces of pfc with a loop of p cord attached to the middle as a Deadman anchor.
Yep, Deadman them horizontally with a quick slot from your snow shovel. Can’t see how a regular stake would hold meaningfully in snow, though our snow is pretty different to what you guys in the northern hemisphere get.
I would dump the Gass canister stove, it could put you in a life threatening situation if it gets really cold. My MSR reactor was my go to but one winter at -40 it became basically useless, Gass just doesn't work. I switched to MSR XGK EX, multi solid fuel stove. Heavier but never let me down in freezing temperatures.
I've been looking at the Samaya tent for a while. Used a BD I-tent a lot and the Samaya is basically the same design (which I like a lot) but much lighter. The downside of all tents with this design is when it's raining or snowing and it's impossible to get in an out without getting some water inside. Giving the tent a good shake before opening the door helps, and easy enough to dry the floor with a pack towel, but it's still sucks to get water inside. I've experimented with a vestibule for the I-tent and that makes it work much better with rain, but it's simply too heavy. You can get a vestibule for the ASSAUT2 too, and it's Dyneema and not that heavy, but for below tree line I've found that a small tarp that weight next to nothing will do almost the same job. Anyway, hope you have time and interest to make a review of the ASSAUT2. It'll be interesting to hear what someone with thuhiker experience think about the Samaya. One comment about the pot - for melting snow I find it's convenient with something larger - at least a liter. A small one is fine if it's just water for your food, but if you need to melt snow for drinking then a larger pot works a lot better. I've mostly winter camped at 4-5000 feet and lower and using a gas canister stove where the canister can't be inverted have been a problem in cold weather. Higher altitude helps a bit and canisters with more propane in the mix will also help, but using something like the MSR Windpro makes life easier in the cold (and the stove more stable).
Nice load-out vid. Putting the Thinlight on top of the XTherm (instead of below it) will likely be warmer. Happened to release a Short on that very topic, today. La Sportiva makes a shoe that is designed for winter trail running: the Cyklon Cross GTX. Basically a trail runner wrapped in an over-gaiter like your Aequilibriums.
Those Altai Hok skis look interesting. Too bad the similar Black Diamond Glidelite skis were discontinued so quickly -- they were just beginning to gain popularity when BD stopped making them. Cross country skis are great, but carrying special boots for them increases weight. Skins allow some climbing, but snowshoes are still best for steep trails. Do we carry _both_ skis _and_ snowshoes? I'm not sure yet. Please let us know your experience!
.. There are insulated bottle covers made by OR that work well to extreme temps without freezing .... can also improvise a bottle pouch from reflectex or a sleeve off an older no longer used puffy jacket ....
It would be great if you could add the Exped Orion II UL tent to your selection. I would like to hear your thoughts on that one. And for clothing I am a fan of the Kuiu brand.
for a good mid point between the mountain boot and the trail runner, try out the Naglev Combat WPs. Ive had them for a couple years and theyre awesome. Great zero drop and breathe fairly well. Size up.
Added a 0 degree quilt last year, but haven't used it yet. Added some warmer leggings recently as well. Trying to decide if I need 0 degree or 20 degree if I pull the trigger on Nepal trip 😁
9:28 With a 3 million estimated net worth, and an $80k income from a 4% dividend, this guy is set for life. No wonder he can buy and try all of this gear. Good for you! I'm almost there, see you on the peaks!!! ❤🔥❤🔥🔥🔥
@@DarwinOnthetrail With the TH-cam revenue calculator, and your video views since you started making videos. If you lived on a meager income and invested the rest in S&P index funds without a financial planner. I could estimate your net worth at around 3 million. If you now live on 4% or less of your dividends you would be grossing 120k a year without touching your principle. After taxes, you would have around 80K to live on and do what you do for the rest of your life knowing the other 7% would be reinvested and each year that 80K would grow with the market. Maybe I'm completely wrong, but it's one possibility based on the revenue your channel generated through the Tube and your other business dealings. Though I didn't account for the expenses of running your channel or business. I hope I'm correct for your sake. You have earned it!
I've gone the Brynje route for my base layers this year and also switched to the slingfin portal one freestanding tent. also been messing around with vapor barrier socks
Are you concerned that the fuel canister will not work in an upright position in temperatures below 20? Have you considered a remote canister stove like the kovea spider that can be used in inverted mode? Any thoughts about testing the sling fin portal for a winter tent or the black diamond first light? That pot might be too small to melt snow. I believe the recommendation is a 2 liter pot but I think 1 liter is the minimum. The steripen would come in handy for sterilizing water if you don’t want to boil it. Good luck on your new pursuits. Looking forward to following you.
What's some NEW WINTER GEAR you've recently picked up for cold weather Backpacking? What's something you won't hit the trail in Winter without??? 🥶
👇Let Us Know Down Below!👇
Try Keen boots to. Properly insulated for cold weather activities , wide toe box like Altas, not heavy, set up for gaiters and great winter tread pattern.
Feathered Friends Flicker Quilt allows you to use it everywhere between a blanket, quilt, to head-less sleeping bag.
Like an Outdoor Research Down Beanie on cold nights
The evolved outcast!! Just ordered, so stoked
Hi Darwin,
I've been following you for years and you've even been a good source of inspiration for me. But today, for the very first time, I have to disagree with you. I'm Canadian. I live in the upper Laurentides and been to the great north quit a few times. So I guess I know a bit about winter..... And I can say that I would never go mountaineering with the sleeping system you have. Never. It's even worst considering that you're saying to be a warm sleeper. You're in for some very unpleasant time with that gear.
Gossamer Gear pad:
There's no insulation with this thing. It's rate 0.5. ZERO point five. So in reality, probably like ZERO point twenty five (0.25). This pad is heavy considering what it'll do for you: nothing. I suggest a good old winter pro tip: Reflectix. Do you know that Arctic explorers, like Larsen, are covering the bottom of their tent with Reflectix? Less than $20 for a big roll. And if you want to boost it to a furnace level, have some reflectix under and over your sleeping pad. It's the way Reflectix works best.
Quilt:
Quilt in very cold temperature? non-sense! Get a good sleeping pad like the NEMO Kayu, or a Western Mountaineering of Feather & Friends. You'll be toasty with one of those. Not with a quilt.
SLEEPING PAD
The Thermarest UberLite has a R-value of ...2.3 only. That's absolutely a no go in winter Darwin. And the Xlite NXT has an R-value of 4.5 wich is okay for spring and fall but not winter. Here's a comparison chart I made for everyone to see:
Neoair UberLite Mummy Regular 72x20 Height: 2.5" R-value 2.3 250g
Neoair XLite NXT Mummy Regular 72x20 Height: 3.0" R-value 4.5 370g
Neoair XTherm NXT Mummy Regular 72x20 Height: 3.0" R-value: 7.3 453g
Tensor Extreme Mummy Regular 72x20 Height: 3.5" R-value: 8.5 472g
Neoair XTherm NXT Rectangular Regular-Wide 72x25 Height: 3.0" R-value 7.3 650g
Tensor Extreme Rectangular Regular-wide 72x25 Height: 3.5" R-value 8.5 625g
Neoair XTherm NXT Rectangular Large 77x25 Height: 3.0" R-value: 7.3 680g
Tensor Extreme Rectangular Long-Wide 76x25 Height: 3.5" R-value: 8.5 662g
In short, for WINTER time...
PAD THICKNESS
The NEMO Tensor Extreme is 3.5" thick where all Thermarest are 3" thick only. And worst for the UberLite with a very thin 2.5". Advantage: NEMO
R-value
The warmest rectangular Thermarest pads are 7.3 only, where the Nemo reaches 8.5. Advantage: Nemo
Weight:
All thermarest pads, mummy or rectangular, with a proper winter insulation, are heavier than Nemo.
650g vs 625g and 680g vs 662g (and this with a lower R-value 7.3 vs 8.5, and thinner pads 3.0" vs 3.5"). Advantage: Nemo on all counts.
P.S. your new pot is awesome. I'll buy one IF available in Canada. Otherwise shipping and custom fees will make it way too expensive.
@DiabloOutdoors Hey! Where I appreciate your well thought out comment & kind words, I'm not sure you heard what I said in the video.
#1 - I stated that this stuff was for "General Winter Backpacking" & if I were to do a more hardcore mountaineering trip some of this would change & I would swap it out for other items deepening on the trip.
#2 - I would never use an Uberlite or an Xlite on a mountaineering trip or even a winter backpacking trip. As I explained in the video, This is why I've switched to an XTherm.
If you are winter camping up in mountains and all water is frozen, you'll need a bigger pot for melting snow. A rule of thumb for the ratio of snow to water is 10 liters of snow will make 1 liter of water. You'd need to fill and boil your 750ml pot 13 times to get 1L of water. I do group camping in winter and we bring a 3L aluminum pot, (which nests in the bottom of my backpack so doesn't take up space), for melting snow so that we can make a lot of water for cooking, drinking, and for making hot nalgene to put inside sleeping bag at night. You can combine this with a white gas stove like Whisperlite, or a propane stove. (Propane boils at
A great trick I’ve learnt for staking in the snow - find sticks and bury them in the snow as a deadman anchors. Then you can pull the guylines through when you pack up. A ton of time and effort digging out your stakes when the snow is rock hard in the morning.
It's a good sign When Darwin is upgrading to the gear you recently upgraded to. See how it performs this winter and great videos as always!
Thanks!
Two ideas for shoes from Montana: Kennetrek insulated boots work well sheep hunting in the Beartooths or elk hunting anywhere in the mountains. For winter walking in sneakers, put a gorilla tape over the toe box to reduce airflow which will keep out some snow as well. Then put a toe warmer on top of your toes over the wool sock. The reduced airflow works well by itself from the tape, but it’s really helpful to regulate the airflow to the toe warmer so you don’t burn yourself and they last longer. Toe warmers can be cut open when you’re done, and composted on trail in your cat hole, just take the sack with you. I add gaiters, and costco $10 ice chains to my sneakers as needed. The gorilla tape stays on good til about Easter.
If you use knee high gaiters on the kennetreks, it will help keep your shins from the snow and cut the wind, ultimately keeping your feet warmer. Thanks for tip about stove. I was just about to get a pocket rocket.
Nice to see you in a Norrøna sweater! As a scandinavian guy its great to see you use a Norwegian brand. We cut our clothes differently. Most nordic people like me are thin and tall and you seam to have that build! I always use there jacket (GTX) because those are the only ones that fit good.
All the american brands are to short in the back and cant cover the but and the arms are always to short for the right size. 🤘🏻
I feel like its an upgrade... I finally washed my down quilt and its fluff is back and feels like a new quilt all over again. 😂😂 Great vid, Darwin.
I have been v happy with the Slingfin Portal. The trekking poles can be used as a cross brace to hold up the tent when covered in snow.
Putting a pour spout on the pot is a great idea, and you're right, they should have been doing that all along.
For real. All pots should have one imho.
Thanks for sharing. I have been working on my winter skills I use the Whisper light Stove For winter camping .I struggle with canister stoves.also 1000ml pot larger pot helps if you need to melt snow ❄️
Agree, Whisperlite and 750ml-1000ml pot for snow melt. Also, UL Nalgene for hot water bottle use at night, add a reflective cozy for daytime heat retention (mid-day hot coffee sips).
@@memathews Good idea I don't have a reflective cozy for my water bottle ..dang I'm just to make one right now thanks 👍👍
@@memathews I guess I could try to sleep with my canister fuel or keep it in my jacket next to my body with my electronics
@@UncleGeorgeTV ... For reflectex ,, check dumpsters at any construction site near you ... use by AC contractors to cover vent runs ,, and the throw away many very large pieces ... usually allowed to have for free ...
I can't believe it, we're actually pretty closely aligned on this! Great choices, durable and reliable stuff in my experience.
I'm in the same situation about winter footwear... Something beefier than a trail runner, but not as beefy as an insulated winter boot.
I'm going to give a pair of lightweight, uninsulated, waterproof hiking boots with thicker wool socks and high gaiters a try. I ordered the Adidas Terrex AX4 Mid Gore-Tex. Their Terrex line has worked for me in the past. May try insulated waterproof socks too.
I'm hoping these will work in snow up to just below where snow shoes would be useful.
That's a great pot design, especially the wood knob. I'll probably grab one next year.
I did not read through most of the comments...
The venerable UCO candle lantern. This is a 4 season "must" for me. 9 hr Citronella candles for 3 seasons. 12 hr beeswax candles for light & additional warmth during the winter.
When I was in the army I kept a metal coffee can with a large candle buring in my canvas shelter half (plus the other guys half) and the candle alone kept our space toasty all night. So I see where you are coming from. Amazing what a candle can do in a small space.
100% best addition for soft light, moderate heat, and dehumidifier 👍
I've recently gotten interested in winter camping and backpacking, so I'm really excited to see what all you get into this winter. If you have figured out a way to avoid or significantly limit sweating while you're hiking or snowshoeing in the winter, I'd love to hear your tips. I'm working on adjusting layers, but haven't gotten it worked out yet. Have fun this winter!!
Be bold, start cold. Don’t wear so much that you’re warm, warmth is for breaks, camp, and sleeping (hopefully.) While moving you want to be “comfortably cold,” meaning you feel the cold but it’s not affecting you. Staying dry is the single most important thing in winter.
@@philsmith2444 Thanks for replying. Often my arms are pretty cold and I still am sweating on my back. I'm learning to avoid the puffy while hiking and use my rain coat instead over base layers, but that sometimes gets pretty wet from the inside. I've started playing with lighter base layers and using gloves to help keep my arms warm instead of relying on the layers
I’m moving away from hardshells for everything but rain and high wind protection. Softshells ventilate much better and protect from moderate precipitation & wind. But for me, even a softshell is too much when temps are much above 10F, a midweight merino shirt over a short sleeve synthetic T-shirt is much better when hiking or snowshoeing. Even then, if it’s sunny I’ll have the merino shirt sleeves pulled up pretty soon.
@@philsmith2444 Oh, that's helpful! I'll have to try that shirt combination and keep the idea of a soft shell in mind. Thanks!
@@amyhastey2651Maybe a pair of sun sleeves under or over your baselayer top will help keep your arms warmer without making your torso too warm.
I like the new cook pot. Well thought out.
Thank You
I love the pot design! Has all the features you could ever want! I always hated the little metal ring you’d need to pick up to remove the lid. Quite literally the reason I stopped using a stove and started cold soaking. The wooden knob is such a great solution! My only worry is packing it down in my bag. I hope the lid stays flush with the top of the cookpot when you invert the lid (so the knob is down) just so that little bit of extra volume is saved 🙂 I’ll happily be buying one when it launches to try it out.
Ivd also just blown the kids inheritance on upgrading. I’ve bought two new tents: A 2p Bonfus Midus (DCF) and a Hilleberg Rogan (free standing) with upgraded DAC poles.
I’ve also upped to the latest Thermarest xtherm which has a R value of 7.2 and is slightly thicker (comfort?) than the R6.9 version. That is paired with my O° UBQ overstuffed quilt.
I always put away my Soto windmaster in the winter and pull out my super efficient Des Cattys alchohol stove along with the Soto Extending jet lighter. I’ve also added a couple of sets of Danish Equipment base layers as well as some down filled over trousers and some goose down socks. Also the latest Decathalon down filled parka which I’m is so warm that I’m going to marry it.
In other words a whole new world of gear. I’ve also upgraded my pack to the latest Atom 60 as well as upgrading my dogs backpack, his thermal sleep system (he also has a Thermarest) and a down filled quilt. My winter footwear are a pair of Evo Barefoot boots which are simply without equal.
Love to hear about the new ventures and gear. Like your cook pot. For my past few hikes I’m enjoying sleeping in a liner w my quilt.
Upgraded the gloves to Showa 282 with the surplus wool gloves as liners. Helps with drying things out more easily and having options in different conditions. They block wind and rain and keep heat in when it's super cold. Probably also the option that gets more bang for the buck.
He can’t shill those
Since you're already using Topo Athletic Shoes, you might like to try the Topo Trailventure 2 WP for colder wetter conditions (not hardcore snow). Slightly higher around the ankles, slightly better support, keeps your feet warmer.
Thanks Darwin. Stay warm Have fun
I worry I'd burn that wooden lid grab handle to charcoal setting the pot in a fire. 👀 Maybe an unfounded concern though.
I love that you added a bale and pour spout!
I love my X-Therm. I'm a very cold sleeper and I love it.
I wish the Outcast had more room for hips.
Looking forward to more of your winter videos and gear tips.
Ive had good experience with the big orange snow stakes especially once I learned to use them correctly. 😅 I still had a little trouble with them coming loose in high wind is all. Many thanks for the Vargo DigDig dual use tip!
Have fun out there and stay safe!
Cool to see you get in to winter backpacking and mountaineering! I'm a mountaineer and winter backpacker from Washington State.
I don't know the exact circumstances your going to be backpacking in, so my advice may not apply. Here in Washington State, we get deep snowpack in the winter. Last trip I did was November 27th, and I set up my tent on 4 feet of snow. That was somewhat low snowpack for that time of year at 5000 ft elevation. By the end of the season, the North Cascades receives on average about 50 feet of snowfall (with a good 20ft depth) at mid-level elevations (4000-6000 ft). As you can imagine, sourcing liquid water in those conditions is basically impossible. In drier climates, you can bash through the ice on a lake with your ice axe and get to liquid water. When theres 10 feet of snow on top of the ice, its not really plausible. So I have to melt snow for all of my water, including drinking water. Bringing snow to 33F liquid water takes almost as much energy (and fuel) as bringing 33F water to a boil. So I'm doubling my fuel consumption right there. On top of that, all my drinking water is being boiled because filters freeze and break in the cold. So I'm boiling 12 liters on a 2 day trip instead of the normal 1-2 liters. As such, fuel efficiency is SUPER important for me.
Remember, Isopro doesn't really work below a certain temperature, and the canister cools itself off through evaporative cooling due to the state-change of the fuel from liquid to gas as you use it. If you are using an Isopro stove in the winter (I do) its important to ensure the canister stays warm-ish. I put a hand warmer under it while I'm boiling water to keep the canister from cooling down too much. Make sure that whatever heat source you are using to warm the canister isn't TOO warm, as heating the canister up too much can cause it to explode. If the source isn't hot enough to burn you, it shouldn't be dangerous to put against the canister.
I substantially prefer a remote-canister stove for winter use. It make it easier to warm the canister during use without worrying about it tipping over, and it also allows me to flip the canister upside down to use it in liquid feed mode if the canister gets too cold. I use the MSR Wind Pro II. Its a little heavier, but its much more useful. Another feature to look for in a remote canister stove is a pre-heat tube. This is where the fuel line passes through the flame before entering the burner head to heat and evaporate the fuel when in liquid feed mode. This feature is needed for upside-down canister operation.
Titanium is very lightweight. Unfortunately it has a low thermal conductivity. That means its ability to transfer heat from the flame to the water inside is much lower than aluminum. As such, when running the stove, you will get lower fuel efficiency using a titanium pot than you will with an aluminum pot. Its tempting to go for the lighter pot, but its possible you will have to bring more fuel to compensate. That really depends on if you can source liquid water or if you have to resort to melting snow.
Where I live go may be colder than where you are going, but for me, a rain jacket in the winter is often unnecessary because I will be in below freezing temps and above snowline the entire trip. I prefer a Soft-shell jacket instead. a soft-shell jacket does just as well in wind and snowfall as a rain jacket, while being WAY more breathable and doubling as a warm mid-layer. It will also handle wet snow and drizzling rain for a short time if I'm going to be below snowline for a very short amount at the beginning/end of my trip. Obviously, if I'm spending any meaningful amount of time in possible rain conditions, i bring the rain jacket.
I suggest checking out the Scarpa Zodiac Tech boots. They are mountaineering boots, but they are not full shank, so they have a little flex (more than the Aequilibrium, but MUCH less than typical hiking boots). If they fit your feet, they are amazing boots. Otherwise look at similar boots from other brands. "flexible" mountaineering boots are great. They have gotten me up a lot of scrambles and glaciers over the years without killing my feet. I have full shank boots when I need them, but don't use them often.
I use ultralight non-free standing tents in summer, but I use a free standing double wall tent in the winter. I use the Tarptent Moment DW Li. I love it. I strongly recommend against the Big Agnes Copper Spur. Ive used it a few times, and sold it. It does not handle wind very well, and I broke poles multiple times, and had more than a couple nights with the tent bending in the wind so much I was worried about damage and didn't sleep at all. Winter (at least where I live) is much windier than summer, and I regularly deal with 30+ mph winds.
Regular stakes just don't work in snow at all. You should learn to dig dead-man anchors to anchor your tent. Anything else isn't going to be acceptable in deep snow on a windy night. For that, you would use snow stakes. I recommend the MSR snow stakes. They weigh a lot less. The REI ones are overkill. There are also a few copycats on Amazon for cheaper, and they still work just as well.
In the off chance you read all that and actually want to know more, feel free to ask.
I have used & loved the Soto windmaster for years. Very reliable piece of gear, hope it serves you well too!
Okay, I'm not a winter packer But man it's always good to see your face.
I just realize how important your information is for so many!!
So excited to follow your winter backpacking journey this year. I've been trying to figure out my gear for winter backpacking over the last few years, based on my own comfort level. It's been a LONG process for me. I feel like this might be the year that I finally get to sleep overnight in my tent on snow without freezing my butt off. Thanks for the inspiration to continue figuring out how to hike in and camp on snow comfortably. :)
I have a pair of Toundra Forces Climasalomon from Salomon and they're awesome. Just finished 2 days with 8+ inches of snow, temps doing to 10, and it was warm and did not get wet for the whole trip. Feels like a hiking boot, acts like a mountaineering boot
I used the MSR Evo Ascent and it so much better. For getting up to peaks they have a stand off on the heel that makes going up steep inclines feel like stairs
Thanks. Interesting. The zpacks free standing duo is hopeless with strong wind and any snow. The vargo dig dig is indeed the best with its saw teeth, just a bit sharp on its top edge.
.. Get a bottle of "Dip-it" at the hardware store and dip /coat the handle half ,, maybe twice ,, to have a rubber coating ..
I can manage with flexible crampons on Keen Targhee Mids during winter. Unless you're front-pointing or in deep cold, you don't really need heavier-weight boots.
Hello 👋 Darwin, thank you for sharing another informative video. With this equipment, you are set for just about anything that Mother Nature will throw at you. Stay safe out there. 😊
I have upgraded to the Slingfin Hotbox and can't wait to try it! Also got a remote canister stove that allows me to invert the canister and put a wind screen around just the burner. Picked up the basic down pants from Cumulus and they are incredibly warm for their weight. They are great for late fall and mild winter conditions where I am at. They make hanging around camp much more comfortable and supplement my sleep system.
I winter camp at altitude with temps down to zero. I use the Nemo Disco 15 and sleep in an expedition weight baselayer. I have those goose feet gear booties you recommended years ago as a just in case. Thanks for that. They are so awesome. Ive never been cold. Always toasty.
Oh and I'm sleeping on an Xtherm.....of course.
If you like that Samaya, you might also like the Black Diamond Firstlight--it's the same classic "Bibler" design, but in a much more affordable nylon fabric (or maybe it's poly). I've never actually used mine for winter (just shoulder seasons), but I think it's still a pretty popular lightweight option for when it snows rather than rains. But looking forward to following along with your winter gear journey!
I have a Marmot Hammer that’s the same design. Right around 3lb if you leave the vestibule at home, goes up pretty quickly but the Velcro pole straps inside the tent can be finicky. A LOT of frost from condensation even with both vents and the door partway open. Floor length is only about 84” so a high-loft sleeping bag touches at both ends. But it does the job and seems to handle wind well. I want to have pole sleeves sewn in it, though.
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Im with you and decided that winter does not have to halt the backpacking season. Went on my first snowshoe backpack trip last winter and though it sucked, am ready to do more with major adjustments. A. A spoon, trowel or tent stake does not make a good shovel when a shovel is needed. B. Extra lighter or emergency matches if something gets wet. C. REI “waterproof” gloves are anything but. D. Freestanding tent a must for me. E. Better system or more fuel if melting snow is your only water source. All in all, everything else worked great. Not cold with my gear, etc. Am looking forward to more suck.
The biggest thing I've upgraded for cold weather stuff is my sleep system and my clothes. I added the REI merino leggings to my kit, as well as the 120 gsm Alpha Direct hoodie from Superior Fleece, and a pair of fleece glove liners I got a few years ago from OR. For sleep, I got the ZenBivy Light Quilt 10 and I'll be staying on my Big Agnes Rapide SL pad, but adding a Nemo Switchback when needed. I'm also swapping out the Smart Water bottles for the UL Nalgenes so I can put hot water bottles in my footbox if needed. I'm in Georgia so the weather doesn't get as extreme as it does up north or out west, but we still get nights in the teens and they're usually wet and icy, but I think I'll be good.
That Noronna fleece looks awesome!
This is great Darwin, glad to hear you’re getting into mountaineering! I’ve been into the winter camping for my objectives either summiting peaks, Splitboarding or just exploring. I’ve got a few tips to share. First off avalanche risk is huge and knowledge is paramount. I know you’re a smart guy so if you can take AIARE 1 class or just don’t go in avalanche terrain. Second with the shelter, I would go with something that can withstand heavy winds/snow. Winter is a different beast and your tent is your safety and shelter. It’s nice to have a winter specific tent bc they can handle the snow loads plus they are actually warmer believe it or not. I use the MSR Access 1. It’s lighter weight for a 4 season but still bomber. That Samaya is going to be great! Lastly, the snow stakes are great when used with a pit. Dig a nice size pit and burry the stake horizontally and attach the tent line with a clove hitch. This makes it easy to untie when it’s frozen in the morning. Also you want to add a couple extra feet onto those tie outs so you can burry then line into the snow. If that makes sense.
I’m living in Bishop this winter if you’re around we can romp around the Sierra! Make it happen.
Cheers!
Andy
I camped in a lot of sand during my Oregon Coast Trail thru-hike this past summer, and I am very glad I brought four of the MSR snow/sand stakes with me. I love my groundhogs and mini-groundhogs, but dang, I need the snow/sand stakes on several occasions.
Sand is so easy though just use sticks. I do all the time on the north coast.
I’m calling dibs on the new cooking pot!!!
You'll laugh at how I sleep in -20° weather. I have a -0 CampMor rectangular sleeping bag. I use a 3/4 length TermaRest sleeping pad. Normally I sleep on the floor in a shelter because no one is there except for my older sons. Done this for many years. A couple of years ago I'Cowboy camp with a friend of mine. I slept like a baby. My friend froze. In the morning the snow was easily shaken off of my bag. In my bag I sleep in my T-shirt. Sometimes I'll throw a couple of hand warmers in the foot box. I'm stung as a bug in a rug. Enjoy your journey.
2:01 - need a 10 hour loop of that phooo 🌬
The Scarpa Rush mid GTX and Ribelle Tech are my go to in between winter hiking shoes depending on the temps. Never let me down
I’ve got a pair of Salomon insulated/waterproof “boots” (seems more like a beefy trail-runner) that I’ve worn in zero degree (f) weather and been comfortable with them paired with some Silverlight socks. That might be a middle-ground shoe for you…
Putting a wind breaker or rain jacket under your insulation layer can be warmer as it reduces air exchange. Most UL rain jackets are too slim and compress warmth. Outdoor Vitals taught me that. It works.
The Visp may not be robust enough for winter. I have a similar jacket for thru hiking, but use a full Gore-Tex Arctyrex jacket for winter mountaineering. I didn't see anything about what you will wear on your hands. I use a system of merino wool liner gloves, boiled wool mitts and Gore-Text over mitts. I can wear them in any combination and all together, they provide enough warmth for most days down to -15F. I have this setup duplicated in my pack for when they get wet (they inevitably do) and I can swap for a fresh pair. Also, I have a thin merino wool hat and a thicker hat I can wear instead or over that hat. A merino wool buff also comes in hand in winter. I can pull it up over the back of my head and wear in between the two hats as a modified balaclava. The goal here are systems. You don't want to sweat, but you invariably will. Good luck.
You've probably seen them already, but Topo makes a mid-height light hiker. They make the Trailventure 2 in waterproof and non-waterproof. As a Topo-lover, I'd try those light hikers if I had a need.
I have both versions of Trailventure 2’s. They are both great.
For winter backpacking, I recently bought a SmartWool merino beanie, a Kuiu Peloton 97 (a midlayer sun hoodie to put over my Patagonia Capilene Sun Hoodie)
If you use a piezo igniter it’s super easy even in thick gloves in wet conditions. I keep a mini bic as a back up but almost never use it.
Really excited for the release of the little pot! Been looking for a new one for a while now!
I recently got Aegismax Down pants and booties. The matched well with my sleeping bag when the over night temperature dropped to -6C/21F. I'd recommend them.
Black Diamond Highlight 3P tent. Free standing.. sets up insanely quick and easy.. breaks down even faster. 2 full doors with screen mesh. Get the oprional vestibule if you plan on spending a lot of time in there during winter snow storms.. its a storm worthy tent that can handle wind and HEAVY snow loads.
Check out the triflex stand for the Windmaster! Not only is it a lot lighter, but it packs way smaller!
Hey @DarwinOnthetrail long time viewer, I just wanted to give ya a quick shout regarding footwear since you've helped me so much on my outdoor adventures I wanted to return the favor. Alot of people prefer an overboot added to trailrunners to make a winter footwear system. The rigidity in winter boots helps with getting the full advantage out of traction gear like spikes, snowshoes, etc. So if you find a good approach shoe you like, you could combine the two; approach shoe + Overboot, and spikes for a system that would hopefully work well for you as an intermediary.
I look forward to gear review by Darwin…. You know Dan well he was using the gear …. Great video
Love the Windmaster stove
It's a good one for sure!
... pretty much the same as the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe ,, except for the loose installed pot arms ..
As middle of the road shoe I would recommend the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor Mid II GTX (WIde). Used a lot in many situations, love them. Ryan Jordan also uses them for winter backpacking
You said you were looking for something for a middle ground for winter camping I would suggest trying xero shoes new winter boot. I believe it's called the Alpine
A good friend recommended the "saucony endorphin trail mid" to me. They are a mixture of a waterproof trail running shoe and a lightweight hiking shoe. However, I haven't been able to test them myself yet and continue to use my "Scarpa Rush Mid GTX".
Thanks for introducing your equipment and best wishes from Germany. ❤
I ridge run in Alaska and as far as a middle of the road shoe and ice/snow grip I wear Salomon Speedcross versions, Salomon ankle trail gators, with Kahtoola K10. You could wear these with any trail runners I suppose, but the I prefer the aggressive tread on the Speedcross shoes. Salomon does make a Speedcross version with a built in gator but I like to multipurpose.
I’m anxious to see you in action, you make good videos and you’re a very thorough , well disciplined individual with a goal when you do things. Fire maple remote canister stove with a preheat tube does well in cold weather for me plus it’s titanium and lite. You can turn the can upside down and the preheat will return the liquid to gas when it gets real ugly outside.
I'd love to see the pot bail have a locking feature so it doesn't fall down into the open flame. Awesome looking lid though!
Put a stick on top of the lid and through the bail.
Love my wind master. Might have to grab that pot.
It's a great stove!
It’s obviously a bit heavier but I think the jetboil is in its element in winter. Lose some ounces on another item and you are at your same base weight with the jetboil
Well thought of Evolved mug 🏅
Woah you are using essentially the same bag and pad that I use. Although I usually throw the closed cell pad under my main pad because the inflatable pads will freeze and tear and are not cheap. I recommend the MSR WindBurner Stove. 60mph winds no problem. Little more weight but at -20C with 60 Mph winds it's nice to instantly have boiling water from snow. Some mountaineers I've known will swear by the liquid fuel systems for mountaineering. Not sure why but I've noticed it.
.. In sub cold especially at altitude ,, liquid fuel works .. canisters don't .. the newer MSR Whisperlite Universal can work with both ..
Would recommend a tend with a solid inner. Tarptent has some freestanding boys that have solid inners.
I found a coozy and drinking lid that fits my 750ml titanium cup. It is an excellent addition to my winter backpacking. I have taken it on 2 trips now.
I’m grabbing one of those cook pots
Sweet looking pot!
Thanks 👍
Mountaineering - yes!
Oh Yeah!
I switched out my Hoka's Speedgoats and waterproof socks to Danner GTX boots for winter hiking in the Wasatch and Unitas Mountains. No more cold feet for me!
I punctured my Nemo Tensor last week on the Ouachita Trail on a 26° night in Oklahoma. I was glad I had the Gossamer Gear Thinlight pad under my Tensor. Not only a bit more protection from the cold, but also a little extra padding from the hard ground (wooden shelter floor).
Word of caution if you're sleeping with a full CNOC in your quilt. Be mindful of where your CNOC is when you get up in the night to answer nature's call so you don't press the plastic clip into your sleeping pad. Pop! Doh!
Tarptent Rainbow Li would be the perfect tent for you imo
Missed these videos!
Welcome Back!
On your stove you are going to need naphtha / Coleman fuel stove. Those canister stoves only work down to around 5 F or even less. You will likely need a wind screen on whatever stove you pick. You can get a foil baking pan and cut it to size. Cut a foil footprint also. Look up some Shug videos om winter camping. :)
... Or even easier to use a length of aluminum foil folded in half or thirds (your choice as needed) ,, works well and folds up flat ..... Can even cook on it if needed .. as improvised skillet ..
Dude that pot is sick!! 👌😉
Fo Sho!
TSL Snowshoes are amazing as well :) I have a flex model which feels great whatever the snow if (icy, powdy or else)
yes i was annoyed when you stopped, but lol happy to see you back
I enjoyed your discussion about your various winter gear choices and thoughts of why you made those decisions. I really like the looks of the Outcast jacket as well as the color choices. After checking the sizing chart, I realized the sleeves won’t work. I need a 35 sleeve in a shirt and ideally 36 in an outerwear jacket. Have you considered adding tall sizes to your inventory in the future? I know that EE offers that option in their custom Torrid jacket.
Talking about shoes, definitely check out the Salomon xa alpine 2, a great middle ground between the topo and the La Sportiva Equilibrium. Maybe the footbox is going to be a bit tight for you though...
For the tent, what about the freestanding option from tarptent with the carbon pole ?
Greetings from France 🤗
I like your videos! Just a small thing. It would be a cool little gesture to put a conversion from Fahrenheit to celcius on screen for us in the rest of the world 😉
The rei snow pegs work better s a Deadman anchor. They have a much too slick finish for any other use. Or use short pieces of pfc with a loop of p cord attached to the middle as a Deadman anchor.
Yep, Deadman them horizontally with a quick slot from your snow shovel. Can’t see how a regular stake would hold meaningfully in snow, though our snow is pretty different to what you guys in the northern hemisphere get.
... PFC ?? ... pvc works ,to a point, cut a piece lengthwise with cupped side toward tent ,, but freezes and breaks when pulled on ..
I would dump the Gass canister stove, it could put you in a life threatening situation if it gets really cold. My MSR reactor was my go to but one winter at -40 it became basically useless, Gass just doesn't work. I switched to MSR XGK EX, multi solid fuel stove. Heavier but never let me down in freezing temperatures.
I've been looking at the Samaya tent for a while. Used a BD I-tent a lot and the Samaya is basically the same design (which I like a lot) but much lighter. The downside of all tents with this design is when it's raining or snowing and it's impossible to get in an out without getting some water inside. Giving the tent a good shake before opening the door helps, and easy enough to dry the floor with a pack towel, but it's still sucks to get water inside. I've experimented with a vestibule for the I-tent and that makes it work much better with rain, but it's simply too heavy.
You can get a vestibule for the ASSAUT2 too, and it's Dyneema and not that heavy, but for below tree line I've found that a small tarp that weight next to nothing will do almost the same job.
Anyway, hope you have time and interest to make a review of the ASSAUT2. It'll be interesting to hear what someone with thuhiker experience think about the Samaya.
One comment about the pot - for melting snow I find it's convenient with something larger - at least a liter. A small one is fine if it's just water for your food, but if you need to melt snow for drinking then a larger pot works a lot better.
I've mostly winter camped at 4-5000 feet and lower and using a gas canister stove where the canister can't be inverted have been a problem in cold weather. Higher altitude helps a bit and canisters with more propane in the mix will also help, but using something like the MSR Windpro makes life easier in the cold (and the stove more stable).
Look at you go with Norrona now, Nice love that brand
Nice load-out vid. Putting the Thinlight on top of the XTherm (instead of below it) will likely be warmer. Happened to release a Short on that very topic, today. La Sportiva makes a shoe that is designed for winter trail running: the Cyklon Cross GTX. Basically a trail runner wrapped in an over-gaiter like your Aequilibriums.
Nice! I'll give it a try!
Informative and beneficial video!
Those Altai Hok skis look interesting. Too bad the similar Black Diamond Glidelite skis were discontinued so quickly -- they were just beginning to gain popularity when BD stopped making them.
Cross country skis are great, but carrying special boots for them increases weight.
Skins allow some climbing, but snowshoes are still best for steep trails. Do we carry _both_ skis _and_ snowshoes? I'm not sure yet. Please let us know your experience!
Not sure what you’re using for water purification, but in freezing temps, maybe look at something like Aqua Mira to avoid filter freeze syndrome.
.. There are insulated bottle covers made by OR that work well to extreme temps without freezing .... can also improvise a bottle pouch from reflectex or a sleeve off an older no longer used puffy jacket ....
It would be great if you could add the Exped Orion II UL tent to your selection. I would like to hear your thoughts on that one. And for clothing I am a fan of the Kuiu brand.
for a good mid point between the mountain boot and the trail runner, try out the Naglev Combat WPs. Ive had them for a couple years and theyre awesome. Great zero drop and breathe fairly well. Size up.
Proper Snow Gaiters are always worth…
I just got that trowel in the mail too.
And I’ll be starting winter adventures as well.
I gotta stop watching gear videos 😂
La Sportiva has some nice mid weight boots to fill that gap.
Added a 0 degree quilt last year, but haven't used it yet. Added some warmer leggings recently as well. Trying to decide if I need 0 degree or 20 degree if I pull the trigger on Nepal trip 😁
If you upgrade to skis would you then also take ski poles? Or trekking poles!!And what would the difference be between the two types of poles?
Probably just Trekking Poles
... Trekking poles are adjustable ....ski poles are not ...
9:28 With a 3 million estimated net worth, and an $80k income from a 4% dividend, this guy is set for life. No wonder he can buy and try all of this gear. Good for you! I'm almost there, see you on the peaks!!! ❤🔥❤🔥🔥🔥
Wait… Who’s that now?
@@DarwinOnthetrail With the TH-cam revenue calculator, and your video views since you started making videos. If you lived on a meager income and invested the rest in S&P index funds without a financial planner. I could estimate your net worth at around 3 million. If you now live on 4% or less of your dividends you would be grossing 120k a year without touching your principle. After taxes, you would have around 80K to live on and do what you do for the rest of your life knowing the other 7% would be reinvested and each year that 80K would grow with the market.
Maybe I'm completely wrong, but it's one possibility based on the revenue your channel generated through the Tube and your other business dealings. Though I didn't account for the expenses of running your channel or business.
I hope I'm correct for your sake. You have earned it!
@@Objectivityiskey Thanks... but not even close. We're taking waaaaaay lower than that 😅
@@DarwinOnthetrail I was just dreaming big for you 👍
Can confirm. Saw Darwin last weekend in San Diego in a Ferrari with a license plate that said ‘GO0UTS1D3’.
I've gone the Brynje route for my base layers this year and also switched to the slingfin portal one freestanding tent. also been messing around with vapor barrier socks
Can you do a full review on the Samaya tent. I have my eye on it, but I haven't found a good review on it yet.
Are you concerned that the fuel canister will not work in an upright position in temperatures below 20? Have you considered a remote canister stove like the kovea spider that can be used in inverted mode? Any thoughts about testing the sling fin portal for a winter tent or the black diamond first light? That pot might be too small to melt snow. I believe the recommendation is a 2 liter pot but I think 1 liter is the minimum. The steripen would come in handy for sterilizing water if you don’t want to boil it. Good luck on your new pursuits. Looking forward to following you.