I'm also from Wisconsin. And like Dan, I too switch out my gear this time of year. For example; I trade my tent for a house, my sleeping pad for a queen-size bed, and my sleeping bag for clean sheets and a cozy quilt. I find these keep me much more comfortable during those frigid winter months. 😆 (Don't judge me.)
Yeah, same here. I trade my water filter for whiskey or wine and freeze dried foods for freshly cooked right out of the oven chicken and rotate veggies.....
If you can’t afford the Fenix series watches (like me), the Garmin Instinct series is a VERY good contender to the Fenix. Instinct also beeps if you go off course and the battery also lasts for 2 weeks.
Yes! I have the instinct! Came from the fenix 5 and i must admit that the instinct is better in use because of the batterylife and the accurate measurements :) Good choice btw :)
Small Parabolic gas heater will take care of any cold problems, total game changer!! heats the tent up in 1 second, 1hr 50g. Hot rubber water bottle. Fleecy line,socks and hat , all musts.
Best pad IMO - Thermarest NeoAir Xlite Reg/Wide Sleep Pad (4.2 R-value)- 15oz. That pad with my UGQ 20 degree quilt, cocoon silk liner, and Outdoor Vitals pillow with a homemade pillow case (luxury item) make for an awesome sleeping system that I use for cold camping down to single digits and warm camping. If really warm all I need is the liner...
As a site camper, I have a lot more freedom to pack heavy than does a backpacker or through-hiker. For anyone similar; I personally switch from my Summer bag w. cotton liner to a modular pile of silk liner, in fleece liner, in folded (100% Merino) wool blanket, under a Horizon Hound down quilt (I do the cape snaps behind my neck like a bib/apron, so it doesn't slide off), & I keep my 10cm Zoobelives air-pad on my stretcher from becoming a heat-sapping liability by putting a foil-top foam mat on top, right against my body (I use a cotton sleeping bag liner as essentially a fitted sheet envelope over my pad all year, + to give it a bit more "grip" against my bedding - so I just slip the foil mat into it, on top). Snug as a bug in an absolute rug, friendo. When combined with the standard sleep outfit of thermals, pyjama pants, fleece hoodie, thick fluffy socks, & beanie, it is _so_ warm that I usually have to shed some clothing or open the fleece bag's zip partway through the night. *I watch Dan because he's entertaining + likeable + just generally "good TV". :-)
Dan, I had been using the Therm-A-Rest Neoair Uberlite for the last 6 months. Now that it is getting colder I switched over to the Nemo Tensor Insulated. It was a WOW moment at how much more comfortable this pad is as compared to the Uberlite. it is so comfortable, I am considering using it all year and just suffer the weight penalty for the heavier pad because of its comfort.
I’m a cold and cranky side-sleeper and could never stand the xlite / tensor “crinkle”, so after an extensive search I was delighted to find the Sea to Summit Etherlight XT Insulated. I highly recommend it. It’s good or excellent in every single metric, though you do get what you pay for. Very worth it in my opinion. I also use the xlarge klymit x pillow because it naturally centers my head and works with the pillow stickies included with the etherlight, so it doesn’t slip around. By far the best sleep kit I’ve been able to find.
So hard to not be bitter at these guys when you finally realize how much free gear they get. Kudos to Dan for giving some away now and then! I thought the Ultamid was a 4 season . I think a lot of skiers use it on tours.
Dan, for the sleeping pad: You can bring a 3/8" blue foam pad to put on top (works much better than underneath, because it has a higher R value than the insulated air pad) in colder weather. Use it in warmer weather underneath a non-insulated pad to minimize the possibility of punctures. Thinner pads are available from Gossamer Gear.
A must have is a double sided Sherpa fleece blanket in a king size because blankets can be folded for added warmth, or for more than one person. I have a throw size that I put on top of my twin bed bottom sheet, but I want a bigger size to sleep between the layers.
I've been using the Megamid from Black Diamond for over 20 years. It is the same design as your Hyperlite mid. The Megamid, or now its called the Megalight, sleeps 4 and when 3 adults sleep in temperatures down in the low 30's the megamid will be at least 20 degrees warmer on the inside. The pyramid design sheds wind real well which helps earn its 4 season rating. Check the top of your hyperlite mid and see if there is a gear loop at the top peak. You can use that instead of a trekking pole to set up your tent. Just run a piece of p-cord through that loop and string the cord between 2 trees or tie the p-cord to the loop and throw it over a tree branch and pull the tent up. I don't use the inside lining thing. You don't need it and it adds more weight. I use a piece of tyvek and a small tarp for a floor . I added mosquito netting along the bottom edge to keep the bugs out and I can fold the netting out in the winter and pile snow on it to help anchor the mid. I think you will over all like the mid design. It is super easy to set up. It's super spacious but they do condensate. You and your family should do well inside this mid during the winter.
Good information Dan, I also went with a Western Mountaineering bag, but when I saw that for 20 bucks more (two years ago) and 1oz more I could get the Versa lite and be rated down to 10° I went with that. It's been a great winter bag. Good to see that your wife handled your little ambush well.
Great video. Thanks for sharing, and thank your wife for braving the outdoors. I wish I could get my wife to do that. Also, I have had the fenix 5X for about three years and it has been great. I am a directional idiot and this thing lets me know when I am off course pretty quickly. My son and I did a 3 day backpacking trip in the White Mountains. We took the lesser traveled Moriah Brook trail which was great because we did not see another person all day, but we spent a good amount of time bushwhacking. The watch would tell me how many feet we were off trail, and what direction. Super helpful.
I second the Garmin Fenix, amazing watch. They got a size for everybody, and even the tactical version(Tactix Delta, same watch, different name) for our soldiers fighting on the front line.
Would love to see more of Mrs. Becker. And would also love to see a video on your camper and truck. I’m in the market for a camper and different truck. So your advice or thoughts on that would be appreciated.
Just had my first backpacking weekend. I used a Hyke and Byke 0° degrees down sleeping bag, I had excellent warm and cozy nights even in the mid to upper twenties temperatures. This sleeping bag has the quality of the big names brand without the price of those big names brands. Worth checking it out. Yes, I had a foam pad and a self inflatable thermarest sleeping pad. But did I mention this was my first time ever going to the wild? This experience gave me the desire to go back again for more fall backpacking experience.
I have the Hyke Byke 0 as well it failed me in the Mountains here in Washington this winter so I bought a WM aplite 20 and yes my wife wasn't happy lol
You’re gonna love that Ulta Mid setup with the 1/2 insert, it’s like a hotel on the trail and you can have a gear explosion inside. I’ve had that same setup with their ultra light tarp inside for a year now. It’s a great winter tent. Also you’ll need a close cell mat under the Nemo Tensor in the winter, I’ve used that mat for almost two years till I switched to the Thernarest Xtherm for warmth, but the Nemo sleeps soooooo good; hope this helps!!
I was debating between Western mountaineering and gathered friends. Both bags are great and yes very expensive I have bought 2. Found feathered Friends customer service and staff are the best
I just brought a few friends backcountry camping for their first time (Killarney for any Canadian viewers) and it got down to about 0 degrees celsius. I would deff agree and recommend good warm gear (they had cheap stuff and were pretty cold). p.s. the Nemo sleeping pads are soo comfy! Thanks for the recommendations!!!
Just got back from a solo trip. It was 19 degrees and snowing. I was completely comfortable on the Nemo Tensor pad. 19 is the lowest temp I've use it. Seems like it's got a few more degrees to go before it gets uncomfortable. I had a real issue with tent poles freezing together from condensation on bottom of fly. It was real challenge to pull them a part. Suggestions?
Didn't realize you were in Wisconsin. I lived there all my life and just moved to Kansas. Been checking out your channel as I'm getting into motorcycle camping further and trying to go more minimalistic.
Yep, your wife can give us the truth on these new products, give that counterpoint too the guy with gear fever! You'll love the pyramid tent, that design is a staple in the mountaineering community along with hoop tents, both designs have great space to weigh ratios and are good at standing up to high winds. My hoop tents are really good at sloughing snow. Enjoy winter❄️❄️🌨️❄️❄️🏔️🎿
If you can you should try out the Big Agnes Torchlight UL and see how it compares to the Western Mountaineering bag in comfort and warmth. I've personally used it in freezing weather (with a 10 degree bag liner) and was warmer and more comfortable than any bag I've slept in.
VERY excited for the HMG Ultimid 2 review. Ive been eyeing it for the past year. I’m a hammocker and looking forward to getting into other areas without trees for my next trip.
Dan, I saw the last video, I just didn't comment then. I'm not too sure about the camera-shy thing... your wife seemed quite confident (and she's *very* cute). She had the best tip as well.
I recently stumbled on to your videos. I’m into Ham radio. I like to go on short hikes and set up radio gear and see how far I can reach out to talk to other Hams using no more than a small radio using Morse code or digital communications with a small laptop, batteries and a wire antenna that fits in a small camera bag. I want to get into more hiking and Ham radio. When you get a chance you should look into Summits on the Air, I’d also recommend looking into getting a least a technician Ham radio license, it can be pretty useful on hikes to have a small hand held UHF/VHF radio. Some have a GPS on the radio and can use APRS ( a way to track somebody using a radio and track them on a map, and able to send and receive text messages via radio, even when the cell phone doesn’t work). Just food for thought.
I found that the smaller the tent the more condensation on your sleeping bag. I found the ratings to be highly unreliable to the point of being dangerous. I have a synthetic sleeping bag rated at -25c comfort and a down at -18c comfort and at around freezing they were uncomfortably cold. I ended up using both of them and that worked great. Also a balaclava and snood kept my head warm.
Have you reviewed the HMG Mid 1? Curious to hear your thoughts as a taller backpacker, especially pros and cons vs. the X-Mid Pro 1. Appreciate your content! 👍🏼👍🏼
Dan, I’m the proud owner of a new 6’6” Western Mountaineering Alpinlite! It didn’t come with the stuff sack. I’m wondering if you could recommend a brand AND size of a high quality compression sack for the Alpinlite?
The WM Versalite 10 degree I have keeps me toasty and I'm a very cold sleeper. Highly recommend the brand. As far as pads, I finally found a warm pad. The Term-a-Rest NeoAir Xtherm is 6.9 R value and 16 oz.
You'll love the ultamid 2 we've used ours a ton in the Colorado trail and some alpine escapes! -it can be a bit tricky to set up right the first few times tho.
Y'all make a great team! I'd love to hear her thoughts on the trips, places and gear. There are alot of women hikers out here and what's great for you guys may not be best for us ladies.
Looked into the hyper light tent too and was going to pull the trigger until I realized that high price didn’t include the inner mesh!😂 looking forward to seeing you review on it!
Hi Dan, will you be making a in depth review of the HMG ultamid 2 tent? I'm looking at buying one but concerned about the head/foot room for someone over 6ft tall. I know the footprint is big but wondering how much space usable the sloped walls take up when using a thick winter pad(s) and down bag? BTW, I recently bought the WM Alpinlite (with 3oz overstuff) as well for the winter. Care to comment why you choose that bag over something even 'warmer' or more extreme?
Try one of the Exped Downmats and you will never use anything else. Western Mountaineering are making great sleeping bags. Any old down jacket or vest will do. It's not critical. We don't like battery consuming watches. We don't use them. I don't know your backpack. It looks OK. Is it lightweight and cheap? I remember when I was young, I used to try a lot of different gear too. Now in my sixties I know, that it doesn't matter a lot. Just go out there and enjoy live.
Informative video as usual Dan. I started out this year new to backpacking and no gear and now have got a full set up and a lot of the gear I purchased was based on your reviews. But after looking into the HMG Ultimid 2 and the full insert, I wonder how a person can drop $1,135.00 on a tent???? And to top it off, in the middle of the nite I'd have to worry about rolling into the trekking pole in the middle of the tent
Pretty small being that it is a 900 fill down. But I don’t use a stuff sack for it. My backpack is waterproof so I just shove it into the bottom of the pack. I find it fills up the empty spots in the pack better that way.
Dan,I live in Iowa and have been looking to test my new overland setup. Looking at Wisconsin for winter camping. Any recommendations, looking for a dense wooded area where I can drive to a campsite.
Hi Dan, new subscriber and you're videos are the best i've seen. I've noticed that TNF Stormbreak 2 has sold out practically everywhere. I'd be keen to see you test it out in 4 seasons. I don't see anyone talking about it being potentially 'ok' for 4 seasons so it would be cool to get your opinion. There is lots of hype around this tent.
Dan, do you change your footwear for the winter.....and yes great seeing your wife in the last video, nice to change it up a bit. If your looking to do some really nice fall hiking come on down South and hike the Pinhoti 72 degrees today.
If you really want a lot of room in a tepee tent. Use the double bug net. Then use two trekking poles in an Upside down V. It is sooo roomy. Lost of headroom too.
We all enjoyed see the lady behind the man. Guaranteed if she is on your videos more ladies will be drawn to backpacking and your channel. Especially if she gives her views and experience as a lady backpacker.
I need a 100ltr bag for my 7lb tent and my synthetic-15 mtn hardwear bag🤣 everything else i have is light....these big ticket items are killing me. Love the videos, @ least I know what I should have😉
Great video Dan, Thanks! Could make one on quality lightweight synthetic sleeping bags? I'd love to be able to use down products, but it's not an option for me as I'm allergic to it, even when they say it's treated/hypoallergenic (Truly isn't. Been there, tried that...). Unfortunately, finding trustworthy info on this topic is quite hard. Almost seems taboo...
Nemo bags are pretty nice. Not quite ultralight, but still super nice and very cozy. I have the Forte 20 and it stays bearable down to about 18-19. Hope this helps!
I was up on a ridge near Mount Mitchell last night (6000 feet) and got caught in a bad wind storm. Got so bad I thought my tent was going to rip apart. Any suggestions on tents in high winds? Also thinking of hammock setup because finding flat ground is impossible up there :(
Dan-question-what made you choose the western mountaineering over feathered friends?-or did you look at feathered friends? I have two of these and they are very good quality in same price point at the WM...? Just curious
YES, your loving wife needs to be include with some of your videos. Your excellent advice and suggestions apply to all backpackers. However, there are some aspects that probably differ for women--hence a "woman's viewpoint" is needed.
Subscribe or mice will get in your food bag
I subscribed long ago but mice still get in my food. What's up with that Dan?
@@2laughandlaugh Yeah, same here.
Don’t you put that evil on me Rickey Bobby! lol 😂
😂🤣😳
bear cans baby! embrace the madness and never fear for your food...unless your partner gets into your business ...that happens
I'm also from Wisconsin. And like Dan, I too switch out my gear this time of year. For example; I trade my tent for a house, my sleeping pad for a queen-size bed, and my sleeping bag for clean sheets and a cozy quilt. I find these keep me much more comfortable during those frigid winter months. 😆 (Don't judge me.)
Yeah, same here. I trade my water filter for whiskey or wine and freeze dried foods for freshly cooked right out of the oven chicken and rotate veggies.....
If you can’t afford the Fenix series watches (like me), the Garmin Instinct series is a VERY good contender to the Fenix. Instinct also beeps if you go off course and the battery also lasts for 2 weeks.
Yes! I have the instinct! Came from the fenix 5 and i must admit that the instinct is better in use because of the batterylife and the accurate measurements :) Good choice btw :)
You guys looked so happy hiking together. Go make a cozy winter nest in the snowy outdoors :)
Small Parabolic gas heater will take care of any cold problems, total game changer!! heats the tent up in 1 second, 1hr 50g. Hot rubber water bottle. Fleecy line,socks and hat , all musts.
Best pad IMO - Thermarest NeoAir Xlite Reg/Wide Sleep Pad (4.2 R-value)- 15oz. That pad with my UGQ 20 degree quilt, cocoon silk liner, and Outdoor Vitals pillow with a homemade pillow case (luxury item) make for an awesome sleeping system that I use for cold camping down to single digits and warm camping. If really warm all I need is the liner...
As a site camper, I have a lot more freedom to pack heavy than does a backpacker or through-hiker. For anyone similar; I personally switch from my Summer bag w. cotton liner to a modular pile of silk liner, in fleece liner, in folded (100% Merino) wool blanket, under a Horizon Hound down quilt (I do the cape snaps behind my neck like a bib/apron, so it doesn't slide off), & I keep my 10cm Zoobelives air-pad on my stretcher from becoming a heat-sapping liability by putting a foil-top foam mat on top, right against my body (I use a cotton sleeping bag liner as essentially a fitted sheet envelope over my pad all year, + to give it a bit more "grip" against my bedding - so I just slip the foil mat into it, on top).
Snug as a bug in an absolute rug, friendo.
When combined with the standard sleep outfit of thermals, pyjama pants, fleece hoodie, thick fluffy socks, & beanie, it is _so_ warm that I usually have to shed some clothing or open the fleece bag's zip partway through the night.
*I watch Dan because he's entertaining + likeable + just generally "good TV". :-)
Hey Dan!
Thanks for your amazing review and relentless gear curiosity.
Happy Trails,
Western Mountaineering
It was great to see your wife with you on the trail. Excited to watch your next video together!!!
Dan, I had been using the Therm-A-Rest Neoair Uberlite for the last 6 months. Now that it is getting colder I switched over to the Nemo Tensor Insulated. It was a WOW moment at how much more comfortable this pad is as compared to the Uberlite. it is so comfortable, I am considering using it all year and just suffer the weight penalty for the heavier pad because of its comfort.
I’m a cold and cranky side-sleeper and could never stand the xlite / tensor “crinkle”, so after an extensive search I was delighted to find the Sea to Summit Etherlight XT Insulated. I highly recommend it. It’s good or excellent in every single metric, though you do get what you pay for. Very worth it in my opinion. I also use the xlarge klymit x pillow because it naturally centers my head and works with the pillow stickies included with the etherlight, so it doesn’t slip around. By far the best sleep kit I’ve been able to find.
So hard to not be bitter at these guys when you finally realize how much free gear they get. Kudos to Dan for giving some away now and then!
I thought the Ultamid was a 4 season . I think a lot of skiers use it on tours.
Dan, for the sleeping pad: You can bring a 3/8" blue foam pad to put on top (works much better than underneath, because it has a higher R value than the insulated air pad) in colder weather. Use it in warmer weather underneath a non-insulated pad to minimize the possibility of punctures. Thinner pads are available from Gossamer Gear.
Thanks for the tips! I use the gossamer pad as well. Love it!!
A must have is a double sided Sherpa fleece blanket in a king size because blankets can be folded for added warmth, or for more than one person. I have a throw size that I put on top of my twin bed bottom sheet, but I want a bigger size to sleep between the layers.
I've been using the Megamid from Black Diamond for over 20 years. It is the same design as your Hyperlite mid. The Megamid, or now its called the Megalight, sleeps 4 and when 3 adults sleep in temperatures down in the low 30's the megamid will be at least 20 degrees warmer on the inside. The pyramid design sheds wind real well which helps earn its 4 season rating. Check the top of your hyperlite mid and see if there is a gear loop at the top peak. You can use that instead of a trekking pole to set up your tent. Just run a piece of p-cord through that loop and string the cord between 2 trees or tie the p-cord to the loop and throw it over a tree branch and pull the tent up. I don't use the inside lining thing. You don't need it and it adds more weight. I use a piece of tyvek and a small tarp for a floor . I added mosquito netting along the bottom edge to keep the bugs out and I can fold the netting out in the winter and pile snow on it to help anchor the mid. I think you will over all like the mid design. It is super easy to set up. It's super spacious but they do condensate. You and your family should do well inside this mid during the winter.
Good information Dan, I also went with a Western Mountaineering bag, but when I saw that for 20 bucks more (two years ago) and 1oz more I could get the Versa lite and be rated down to 10° I went with that. It's been a great winter bag. Good to see that your wife handled your little ambush well.
The Klymit Insulated Static V Luxe SL is a great cold weather sleeping pad. R-value of 6.5 and 3.5in thick. Clocks in at 31.3oz
Great video. Thanks for sharing, and thank your wife for braving the outdoors. I wish I could get my wife to do that. Also, I have had the fenix 5X for about three years and it has been great. I am a directional idiot and this thing lets me know when I am off course pretty quickly. My son and I did a 3 day backpacking trip in the White Mountains. We took the lesser traveled Moriah Brook trail which was great because we did not see another person all day, but we spent a good amount of time bushwhacking. The watch would tell me how many feet we were off trail, and what direction. Super helpful.
I second the Garmin Fenix, amazing watch. They got a size for everybody, and even the tactical version(Tactix Delta, same watch, different name) for our soldiers fighting on the front line.
Would love to see more of Mrs. Becker. And would also love to see a video on your camper and truck. I’m in the market for a camper and different truck. So your advice or thoughts on that would be appreciated.
Does Pam know about the wife?
Just had my first backpacking weekend. I used a Hyke and Byke 0° degrees down sleeping bag, I had excellent warm and cozy nights even in the mid to upper twenties temperatures. This sleeping bag has the quality of the big names brand without the price of those big names brands. Worth checking it out.
Yes, I had a foam pad and a self inflatable thermarest sleeping pad.
But did I mention this was my first time ever going to the wild? This experience gave me the desire to go back again for more fall backpacking experience.
I have the Hyke & Byke 15° bag, I love it.
@@nagaviper1169
Yes, these bags and tents 🏕 worth every penny. I also have the Zion2P and I’m very satisfied with the quality of this tent 🏕
I have the Hyke Byke 0 as well it failed me in the Mountains here in Washington this winter so I bought a WM aplite 20 and yes my wife wasn't happy lol
Always remember Dan, behind every successful man is a surprised wife!! Stay warm, anxious to see a Smokies trip vid!!
Yes! I would like to see more videos w/ your wife. It’s awesome that you all hike & camp together:)
I'm new to his channel, and I love it! My favorite camping channel so far keep up the awesome work
We'd love to see your wife more often of course!
That shelter looks amazing, can't wait to see the review!
Dan, you should mention your base layers, boot, socks, gloves, hat, pants for fall/winter trips
You’re gonna love that Ulta Mid setup with the 1/2 insert, it’s like a hotel on the trail and you can have a gear explosion inside. I’ve had that same setup with their ultra light tarp inside for a year now. It’s a great winter tent. Also you’ll need a close cell mat under the Nemo Tensor in the winter, I’ve used that mat for almost two years till I switched to the Thernarest Xtherm for warmth, but the Nemo sleeps soooooo good; hope this helps!!
I was debating between Western mountaineering and gathered friends. Both bags are great and yes very expensive I have bought 2. Found feathered Friends customer service and staff are the best
I just brought a few friends backcountry camping for their first time (Killarney for any Canadian viewers) and it got down to about 0 degrees celsius. I would deff agree and recommend good warm gear (they had cheap stuff and were pretty cold). p.s. the Nemo sleeping pads are soo comfy! Thanks for the recommendations!!!
Do you ever use an emergency blanket underneath your pad to both protect the pad and reflect heat? What about using it as a footprint?
Just got back from a solo trip. It was 19 degrees and snowing. I was completely comfortable on the Nemo Tensor pad. 19 is the lowest temp I've use it. Seems like it's got a few more degrees to go before it gets uncomfortable.
I had a real issue with tent poles freezing together from condensation on bottom of fly. It was real challenge to pull them a part. Suggestions?
Thanks for the videos! I just got a Black Diamond Revolt head lamp based on your advice and it was an excellent decision.
Dude got to love your state. The only state in the Union where cutting the cheese is the state-sanctioned Pastime.
Didn't realize you were in Wisconsin. I lived there all my life and just moved to Kansas. Been checking out your channel as I'm getting into motorcycle camping further and trying to go more minimalistic.
I take the Nemo pad everywhere, and sleep much better. Now on the hunt for a cold weather bag. Keep up the good work 👍
Yep, your wife can give us the truth on these new products, give that counterpoint too the guy with gear fever! You'll love the pyramid tent, that design is a staple in the mountaineering community along with hoop tents, both designs have great space to weigh ratios and are good at standing up to high winds. My hoop tents are really good at sloughing snow. Enjoy winter❄️❄️🌨️❄️❄️🏔️🎿
If you can you should try out the Big Agnes Torchlight UL and see how it compares to the Western Mountaineering bag in comfort and warmth. I've personally used it in freezing weather (with a 10 degree bag liner) and was warmer and more comfortable than any bag I've slept in.
MHW made the Ghost Whisperer/2 thicker denier and added down making it ~1 oz heavier. Well worth it in my opinion
Thank you!
VERY excited for the HMG Ultimid 2 review. Ive been eyeing it for the past year. I’m a hammocker and looking forward to getting into other areas without trees for my next trip.
Porcupine is on our list for next year (love love da UP, eh). Thanks for being real. Your videos are helping this noob hiker find his groove.
Used the nemo pad for my cdt hike this year. I agree with it being super comfortable and very durable as well!!
Dan, I saw the last video, I just didn't comment then. I'm not too sure about the camera-shy thing... your wife seemed quite confident (and she's *very* cute). She had the best tip as well.
I recently stumbled on to your videos. I’m into Ham radio. I like to go on short hikes and set up radio gear and see how far I can reach out to talk to other Hams using no more than a small radio using Morse code or digital communications with a small laptop, batteries and a wire antenna that fits in a small camera bag. I want to get into more hiking and Ham radio. When you get a chance you should look into Summits on the Air, I’d also recommend looking into getting a least a technician Ham radio license, it can be pretty useful on hikes to have a small hand held UHF/VHF radio. Some have a GPS on the radio and can use APRS ( a way to track somebody using a radio and track them on a map, and able to send and receive text messages via radio, even when the cell phone doesn’t work). Just food for thought.
I’ll definitely do that! Thanks for the tip!
I found that the smaller the tent the more condensation on your sleeping bag. I found the ratings to be highly unreliable to the point of being dangerous. I have a synthetic sleeping bag rated at -25c comfort and a down at -18c comfort and at around freezing they were uncomfortably cold. I ended up using both of them and that worked great.
Also a balaclava and snood kept my head warm.
I bought the Fenix 6 Pro Solar. It's amazing. My view was if I'm going to invest in a watch of that price then I want the solar capability, too.
Western mountaineering bags definitely are sweet I have 3 of them
Have you reviewed the HMG Mid 1? Curious to hear your thoughts as a taller backpacker, especially pros and cons vs. the X-Mid Pro 1. Appreciate your content! 👍🏼👍🏼
Big Agnes makes very comfortable, warm and quiet pads. And a little heavy.
Dan, I’m the proud owner of a new 6’6” Western Mountaineering Alpinlite! It didn’t come with the stuff sack. I’m wondering if you could recommend a brand AND size of a high quality compression sack for the Alpinlite?
Excited to see how the tent does for you. Interested setup system
The WM Versalite 10 degree I have keeps me toasty and I'm a very cold sleeper. Highly recommend the brand. As far as pads, I finally found a warm pad. The Term-a-Rest NeoAir Xtherm is 6.9 R value and 16 oz.
That thermarest pad rocks! Feels like a furnace the way the heat bounces back on you.
From Minnesota, so i appreciate some gear knowledge for the fall( Midwest edition) lol
You'll love the ultamid 2 we've used ours a ton in the Colorado trail and some alpine escapes!
-it can be a bit tricky to set up right the first few times tho.
Y'all make a great team! I'd love to hear her thoughts on the trips, places and gear. There are alot of women hikers out here and what's great for you guys may not be best for us ladies.
I don't understand how you ordered your Alpinlite with overstuff. From where?
How do you compare the Zenbivy sleeping pad to the Nemo? Both, we are told, are the " best sleep you ever had "
Looked into the hyper light tent too and was going to pull the trigger until I realized that high price didn’t include the inner mesh!😂 looking forward to seeing you review on it!
Hi Dan, will you be making a in depth review of the HMG ultamid 2 tent? I'm looking at buying one but concerned about the head/foot room for someone over 6ft tall. I know the footprint is big but wondering how much space usable the sloped walls take up when using a thick winter pad(s) and down bag? BTW, I recently bought the WM Alpinlite (with 3oz overstuff) as well for the winter. Care to comment why you choose that bag over something even 'warmer' or more extreme?
You will Love the Porcupine Mts. It's an awesome place. Hope to see your wife do more videos with you.
Looking forward to your review of the tent
I’ve enjoyed my sea to summit ether light xt insulated, it’s a big lighter too.
Yes to more wife. I also watch TheOutdoorGearReview and his wife adds interesting comments from her perspective.
Girl power ! 👍💪
Try one of the Exped Downmats and you will never use anything else. Western Mountaineering are making great sleeping bags. Any old down jacket or vest will do. It's not critical. We don't like battery consuming watches. We don't use them. I don't know your backpack. It looks OK. Is it lightweight and cheap? I remember when I was young, I used to try a lot of different gear too. Now in my sixties I know, that it doesn't matter a lot. Just go out there and enjoy live.
I'm desperate for warm gloves. I'm in Alaska and not near an REI where I'm located. Any suggestions before I start trial and error!?
Welcome to club Garmin!!! Nobody leaves.
Dan have you tried a Kymit static v sleeping pad yet. Their pretty comfortable.
I love mine and the 4.4 r value is worth the extra weight
Do you have experience with this sleeping bag Alpinelite in the fall and spring.. isn't it too hot to use?
Thanks in advance
I love that tent
Been using a lot of the same gear. Awesome!
Informative video as usual Dan. I started out this year new to backpacking and no gear and now have got a full set up and a lot of the gear I purchased was based on your reviews. But after looking into the HMG Ultimid 2 and the full insert, I wonder how a person can drop $1,135.00 on a tent???? And to top it off, in the middle of the nite I'd have to worry about rolling into the trekking pole in the middle of the tent
I went with Hilleberg Rogen pretty expensive but hey its a fun hobbie
Army softies are good too.
I think you are wrong. The sea to summit ether light is the most comfortable sleeping pad 😀👍🏻
Pyramid shelter (pitched taught) is about the best for snow and wind. That’s an awesome shelter for winter camping.
Dan, how small can you stuff that sleeping bag? What’s the smallest stuff sack you could cram it into? Thx.
Pretty small being that it is a 900 fill down. But I don’t use a stuff sack for it. My backpack is waterproof so I just shove it into the bottom of the pack. I find it fills up the empty spots in the pack better that way.
Hi Dan, does the Alpinlite fits into an 8l dry bag?
WM makes an awesome bag!
Have you tried the Nemo Tensor Alpine?
Dan,I live in Iowa and have been looking to test my new overland setup. Looking at Wisconsin for winter camping. Any recommendations, looking for a dense wooded area where I can drive to a campsite.
Hi Dan, new subscriber and you're videos are the best i've seen. I've noticed that TNF Stormbreak 2 has sold out practically everywhere. I'd be keen to see you test it out in 4 seasons. I don't see anyone talking about it being potentially 'ok' for 4 seasons so it would be cool to get your opinion. There is lots of hype around this tent.
Great info Dan. I'm going on an overnight hike tomorrow. Temps are going to be below freezing 😬
Dan, do you change your footwear for the winter.....and yes great seeing your wife in the last video, nice to change it up a bit. If your looking to do some really nice fall hiking come on down South and hike the Pinhoti 72 degrees today.
That tent reminds me of the lil bug out by seek outside. Though, I'm going to use it for backpacking/hunting but the same idea!
If you really want a lot of room in a tepee tent. Use the double bug net. Then use two trekking poles in an
Upside down V. It is sooo roomy. Lost of headroom too.
Love the list.
Love my Fenix 6x watch. How do you ornate the compass 🧭 🤔
We all enjoyed see the lady behind the man. Guaranteed if she is on your videos more ladies will be drawn to backpacking and your channel. Especially if she gives her views and experience as a lady backpacker.
Show off! I want that sleeping bag!! Ha! Where is she? Bring her back!! 😁🤣🥾🥾❤️ Oh! The watch is beautiful 😯😋
Dan, can you provide details of less expensive gear provided in the description because we cannot reach backcountry site from France
Nemo hornet
Kelty cosmic down
Granite gear crown2 60
@@DanBecker Thanks dude
I need a 100ltr bag for my 7lb tent and my synthetic-15 mtn hardwear bag🤣 everything else i have is light....these big ticket items are killing me. Love the videos, @ least I know what I should have😉
Have you used klymit v static insulated sleeping pad? I'm curious how does it compare to Nemo insulated
Cannot beat a fenix, small powerbank and you are good for a week off grid
How easy is Dyneema to cut? I’m thinking of using a hot stove with the UL tent.
So you’re just swapping your summer kit for winter kit? Who’d of thought!! 😄 Some expensive kit there though.
What editing software do you use? Trying to up my game!
Great video Dan, Thanks! Could make one on quality lightweight synthetic sleeping bags? I'd love to be able to use down products, but it's not an option for me as I'm allergic to it, even when they say it's treated/hypoallergenic (Truly isn't. Been there, tried that...). Unfortunately, finding trustworthy info on this topic is quite hard. Almost seems taboo...
Nemo bags are pretty nice. Not quite ultralight, but still super nice and very cozy. I have the Forte 20 and it stays bearable down to about 18-19. Hope this helps!
Get the Nemo Tensor Alpine... :) So warm... like the sun!!! More wife!!!!
I was up on a ridge near Mount Mitchell last night (6000 feet) and got caught in a bad wind storm. Got so bad I thought my tent was going to rip apart. Any suggestions on tents in high winds? Also thinking of hammock setup because finding flat ground is impossible up there :(
You don't want it to hold heat in the winter, that would cause condensation so your sleep system has to be on point.
Dan-question-what made you choose the western mountaineering over feathered friends?-or did you look at feathered friends? I have two of these and they are very good quality in same price point at the WM...? Just curious
I can think of the weight difference. FF are more heavy
YES, your loving wife needs to be include with some of your videos. Your excellent advice and suggestions apply to all backpackers. However, there are some aspects that probably differ for women--hence a "woman's viewpoint" is needed.
I need to get you guys onto a Sea to Summit Ether Light XT! From a pressure point perspective, most comfortable pad out there!
Ha! Maybe I’ll try one!