$250 vs $2,500 Backpacking Gear Loadout - Why is Half the Weight 10x the Price?

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$250 vs $2,500 Backpacking Gear Loadout - Why is Half the Weight 10x the Price?

Рет қаралды 99,031

Homemade Wanderlust

Күн бұрын

Пікірлер: 330

@Silkstep Жыл бұрын

I bought a Z-Packs Duplex and Arc Blast because I am 60+ years old and need to take advantage of such tech advances to lighten the load on those knees and hips. With the Enlightened Equipment quilt, I halved my total pack weight from 35+ down to about 15-20 pounds depending on luxury items I allow myself now. Well worth it in my opinion, even if I do not crunch long miles and am just a weekend warrior.

@boredandagitated Жыл бұрын

How’s the arc blast? Does it cut down on some sweat with that curve?

@Silkstep Жыл бұрын

@@boredandagitated I love my Arc Blast, going on 5 years or so. Yes, the curve really does allow decent air flow between your shoulder blades and waist.

@mtadams2009 Жыл бұрын

@@boredandagitated I own the Arc Blast but if I could do it again I would get Arc Haul with the carbon stays that have a pre bent arc. With the Arc Blast you need to set up the arc with the pack empty and make sure you get the arc adjusted on both sides evenly. The Haul the arc is set and does not change. I do like my Blast and all of my Zpacks gear. A couple of years ago I retired and started doing much longer hikes so I bit the bullet and went all in in UL and Zpacks. Zero regrets. A base weight of eight pounds has been a game changer. Take care

@Kevinschart Жыл бұрын

I feel the same way. But I'm fine with slowly reducing my weight over time. The downside of some of these gear reviewers is that some folks are needlessly turned off from long distance hiking because it seems too expensive. Most people can get their weight down by taking less stuff.

@michaelb1761 Жыл бұрын

When I switched from a cheap synthetic bag to an Enlightened Equipment down quilt, I was also able to switch to a smaller lighter pack (bought cheaply on a close out sale) and shed several pounds of base weight. It made a huge difference in my base weight.

@h.b.4058 Жыл бұрын

I really love how hard you work at making backpacking accessible to more people.

@michaelb1761 Жыл бұрын

My original set up was really cheap and not that light or good (IMO). However, my current set up is relatively nice, is not comprised of Chinese intellectual property theft, and is still less than $1000 including shoes, clothing, everything. I buy things on close-out sales and do not buy the Gucci gear for clothing. Despite what some (not Dixie) KZfaqrs might make you think, Backpacking doesn't need to be expensive. I track how much I spend on gear, food, and travel to the trail. Compared to a typical vacation with travel and hotels, backpacking can be a bargain vacation.

@mpatrick2153 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for this thorough guide. I’ve slowly upgraded my gear several years but I always make sure my old gear goes to someone else who is just starting out so they can fall in love with backpacking as well. I just upgraded to the big agnes tiger wall and I’m stoked for the upcoming season

@HomemadeWanderlust Жыл бұрын

That’s a wonderful idea and I’m glad you liked the video :)

@michaelsakowich7026 Жыл бұрын

Great idea passing it along. Please consider donating excess gear to the local Scouts. As a Scout Leader it is great to be able to hand out some gear to new Scouts. We also use old equipment like water filtration and stoves for demonstration purposes.

@davem4193 Жыл бұрын

@@michaelsakowich7026thanks for mentioning that, I always donate gear to the local Scout troop when I upgrade. The single parents are especially appreciative.

@srob308 Жыл бұрын

Fabulous philosophy!

@mendyviola Жыл бұрын

I do budget camping/bike-camping because I have to. I have a NatureHike Mongar 2 tent. For $150, it’s done me well for 2 years now with zero issues. They also make smaller and lighter weight models. I also found a budget down sleeping bag, and 2 different sleeping pad options (cold & warm weather). The one thing I spent money on was my cargo bike-trailer to haul my gear with. I also use my trailer around town for short grocery store trips, etc. There are also mid-priced ranged items that will provide more comfort/light-weight options.

@alanfoix9911 Жыл бұрын

I did the budget way for years. Nothing wrong with that. With experience I learned how to use what I had. And stay warm and dry. Peace and love hike on🙏✌️

@bromanjoman2694 2 ай бұрын

I was thinking of trying bike camping, good to know other folks are trying it

@davidfisch7654 Жыл бұрын

I’ve used Cascade Mountain CARBON trekking poles for 5 years with no problems. They weight the same as the Black Diamond poles, but can be bought for $35 at Costco. Now that’s a no-brainer!

@alangauld6079 Жыл бұрын

I've been backpacking for about 50 years and my oldest pieces of kit come from 1978 and 1982, namely my tent and backpack respectively. The bag is frameless(but has a self-rigid sit-mat insert) and is just a big empty bag with a harness and padded back panel, but it's super comfy to carry and has hauled loads of 40lbs+. My tent is showing its age but still works and is quick to erect and weights 3.5lbs and has seen me through 60mph gales and -10C winter camps. My most modern gear includes an inflatable sleeping pad (2018 - I'd used closed cell pads up till then - big mistake!) and the BRS 3000 stove(2018 - and it's a mini miracle!). It's a mix of budget and expensive, I pick what works rather than go on price. My sleeping gear varies by season - we range from -30C to +30C, so no bag/quilt covers it all. Plus as I get older I only cover 12-20 miles per day, in my youth I could do 25-35 if I had to - so weight becomes less of a critical factor, it's now more about comfort and reliability.

@stephenmasciocchi1411 Жыл бұрын

I have the Cascade Mountain Tech carbon fiber poles (with cork handles and flick locks) and they have been great! I've had them for about 5 years and they have been on countless backpacking trips and long day hikes, from trekking through snowy passes to the Grand Canyon. Obviously the carbon fiber ones are more expensive than the aluminum ones, but I can't say enough good things about mine.

@isabelledrolet4297 Жыл бұрын

Same here! They have been serving me well for the past 4 years. Can't complain. They were recently on sale at Costco. I picked up another pair to keep as back up...

@michaelb1761 Жыл бұрын

Love mine too. Replaced the tips on an older rubber handle pair that I've been using since 2014 (bought at Costco), and I also have a newer pair with cork handles (also from Costco). Great deal. Hard to believe that the aluminum poles are more expensive now than the carbon fiber poles in 2014.

@vailpcs4040 Жыл бұрын

I've always thought of house brands, like those at REI were an amazing value. REI gets to survey thee best features of each type of product all the time and then innovates just a little where customers input and then make a near-on-par-with-top-brands level of quality at at midrange price. I see these as smart compromises of the best quality and capability at the best price.

@techguy9023 Жыл бұрын

Or get a major deal on a returned item that may have been used once.

@lakorai2 Жыл бұрын

Except REI only warranties for 1 year and wont sell you parts

@vinoto Жыл бұрын

Not many companies warranty more than a year. REI's return policy is also among the best

@udmbfckx2916 Жыл бұрын

Hello and thanks for the video. Just as an addition, there are other choices somewhere in between these 2 extreme ranges, closer to the $250 range, which is too cheap to be acceptable for some decent hiking. 1) You can buy a Lanshan 25 oz tent for $180, a 2 lb excellent Durston for $240 or a Gossamer Gear The one, barely above 1 lb, for $300. My standard for the last few years has been an OR Helium Bivy, 1 lb, now selling for about $160 at the "A". 2) As far as backpacks, a Granite Gear Crown 2 (60L, less than 2 lbs) can be found new online for about $100 (holds 35 lb comfortably) or a Granite Gear Virga 2 50-58L Backpack which weighs in at 1 lb 2oz can be had for the same $100 (holds about 20 comfortably). They both carry really well. 3) Finally I would use a quilt/blanket since those are lighter than the bags. Anyone remember the $30 Costco blanket? I made one into a quilt by using some monster tape and it has been good to me to the 40s and less than 2 lbs. Nowadays they sell similar ones for about $60 at the "A". For a great quilt, may I suggest the Paria brand? Their 30 degree, 700 fill, 2 lb costs $160, their 15 degree, at 2 lb 3 oz is just $180. Combine that with a pad such as the Klymit Insulated Static V Lite Sleeping Pad, in regular size at 20 oz, R rating of 4.4 and $100 So for the big 3, you are talking more or less $600 and under 7 lbs....you can add the rest of the stuff and do da math which methinks is going to be an additional $100 - $150 (Sawyer, Frog Togs, Pot/cup, BRS, poles) which is about 1.5 lbs (total is 8.5 lbs).....As a matter of fact, think $750 which is 1.5 lbs heavier but about $1,700 cheaper than the best shown here. Yes, it is $500 more than the (possibly) "one time hike/use" gear but it is a whopping 5 lbs less! Meaning $100 per pound weight loss. So there you have it: Almost 7 lbs for $2,470, 13.5 lbs for $248 or 8.5 lbs for $750.

@chrisnutley5747 Жыл бұрын

I am a Scout Leader, and I am constantly recommending gear selections to youth AND adults, for early-stage backpackers. (And I have tried ALOT of them). But, full disclosure, I have never bought UL or Very High-End gear. So, my range is low-to-mid for price/quality. Generally, I stay away from alot of the lowest cost (walmart) items for the Big3. Alot of Scouts get the Teton Sports backpack, due to its durability and size adjustments. (My son has now used the same Teton 3400 ($80) for 10yrs.) For adult backpacks, Osprey gets high marks for price vs quality. Cheap tents are not bad, but their lousy rainfly is the downfall (aka Coleman or Ozark Trails) Kelty Grand Mesa 2(as-is) is a great budget option at $150. I have also used the Kelty Tanglewood2 at $100, and then swapped out the stock fiberglass poles for a replacement set of alum poles ($25) to drop weight. And sleeping bags have tons of options for size/rate/cost to fit and budget at Cabelas/BassPro. Again, Kelty seems to be the brand that has hit the sweet spot for moderate budgets/ quality. Unfortunately, I am all over the place on sleeping pads. I have a closet full of leaky air-pads and heavy yoga mats. Just have not splurged for the NeoAir. I use $500-550 as an average budget for the Big 3 +pad

@gregsantos9392 Жыл бұрын

Aloha Dixie, Mahalo for another great video. I do want to point out an error in your description of tent materials: nylon vs polyester. Nylon is hydrophyllic- it absorbs water and sags when wet. Polyester is hydrophobic- it doesn’t absorb water and doesn’t sag. Polyester is also more UV resistant than nylon. Nylon is a slightly stronger fabric that polyester, but tests have shown it is negligible. Mahalo Greg

@PabloP169 Жыл бұрын

My message is sort of like yours, when starting out on your first shorter hiking outings, take cheap but servicable stuff that will not fail on you, and upgrade to better gear if/when taking on bigger hikes, or as $$ are available, or specific issues are found with the cheaper options.

@dagnolia6004 Жыл бұрын

i love that Dixie is not "just" a gifted nature videographer; but a thoughtful researcher and communicator for ALL levels of those sseking to spend more time out of doors.

@mhoefler914 Жыл бұрын

New people tend to worry about bear attacks but hypothermia is really the big one. Invest in a quality bag and pad to start with, and understand how to manage your food, energy and body heat. I worked in a backpacking store and about 85% of the couples coming in said the women were the colder of the 2.

@alanfoix9911 Жыл бұрын

Don't let fear slow you down. Use common sense. I've camped all over. For years and I'm still alive. Peace and love ❤️ camp on. 🙏✌️🤔👍

@allan_bomb Жыл бұрын

Your content is gold. Very educational, entertaining and not dry at all. I can tell that you're very experienced. You are awesome. Thank you.

@robingood62 Жыл бұрын

Great work again Dixie! In my opinion Decathlon is worth to have a look on. They offer a wide range of gear from cheap to expensive, but they are honest to tell the customer if the product is made for recently use or heavy use in all conditions. For most weekend-worriers the cheapest items from Decathlon will do the job perfectly for small money. For example, trekking poles: the cheapest are just 6$ each. I tested it and they performed quite good.

@ralphjesseman6562 Жыл бұрын

Once a person has truly decided that they want to continue in this wonderful hobby, I believe in the old adage, “ buy once, cry once.” With the big three, lightweight, durability, along with COMFORT, are key. I’m 67, this all matters!! I have a Zpacks Duplex, and it was a painful day when I hit that button. Then I used it….. WOW!! Same with my Nemo Pad, when I used it, WOW!! Then, one can only get the gear they truly afford. Hike on, fellow babies!!!! BTW- base weight is sub 9lbs!!

@caraoosterhouse7348 Жыл бұрын

I'm glad I spent the money on my Enlightened Equipment quilt. Super warm and super light. I can also use it when I am camping in my camper van and have used it staying at friend's houses. I went more middle of the road on the pack and tent. I like my REI pack, not the lightest, but lots of good features and pretty light. One thing that did sting was I spent a bunch of money on a good inflatable pad. I do not backpack often, so the side seam failed on my pad and I didn't realize it until the next summer when it was out of warranty and I had a useless piece of kit. Thanks for the all the time spent on putting this video together.

@DonP_is_lostagain Жыл бұрын

When I bought my ZPacks Arc Blast, the company was 4 people. When I bought my first UGQ quilts the company was 3 people. Now, both companies have about 10 or 15 people and a lot more equipment than 7 or 8 years ago. I will still buy form both. That said though, I also own several big name tents and other equipment and clothing. As well, I have "cheap" gear as well, some of which I will never regret buying because it has performed way beyond my expectations. Those Nylafume liners have an additional asset in that they also are smell masking. And you can repair them with simple tenacious tape.

@guermeisterdoodlebug7980 Жыл бұрын

I am unlikely to buy or used any of these items, but I watched till the end. You produce terrific videos and you are a joy to watch.

@scottm.4091 Жыл бұрын

I totally agree, her videos are top notch! Have you ever watched the video of her and her sister hiking the El Camino di Santiago trail? It's very nice and funny too!

@paulmarshall4794 Жыл бұрын

Hi Dixie, good comparisons. I know you mentioned it, but I think it really should be highlighted, there is a difference between going for a 5 mile hike into the back country to camp for a night or two, versus doing the PCT or Appalachian Trail. When you are going out hiking every day, doing 10 to 20 miles a day for 6 months, that 6 lbs weight difference is a lot, but if you are only doing one day here and one day there, even if it is 10 or 20 miles, the 6 lbs isn't as bad and is tolerable.

@garywood702 Жыл бұрын

Good advice. Over time I think I have developed an eclectic mix of gear. Some things I prefer to invest a bit more on and other things the budget versions work just fine for me. In the end, I believe it boils down to personal preferences/needs/expectations and what works or is acceptable for one, might not be the right fit/mix for another.

@amberbydreamsart5467 Жыл бұрын

I'm talented and got a heavy and expensive sleeping bag!! The zenbivy sleep system is just too good for my sleep for me to pass up on. Actually sleeping through the night is the toughest part of backpacking for me, so making my sleep system as lovely as humanly possible for me is the priority when it comes to luxury item weight

@Starfish2145 Жыл бұрын

You’re talented? What does that have to do with anything lol.

@carrdoug99 Жыл бұрын

Love the discussion. 👍 For me, the only top of the line items are sleeping bags and sleeping pads (I personally don't use a sleeping pad - pod hammocker). 800+ fill dwr down is well worth the cost. As well as the fact that higher end bags use the comfort rating. In my experience, the comfort rated bag feels warmer than the 20 deg colder rated survival rated bag. For the other items in this video, mid grade is probably the way to go (even on a through hike). Silpoly over dyneema, synthetics over wool/down (mostly), and a two pound backpack from a quality company is going to work just as well as a 2 pound dyneema pack costing 2-3 times as much.

@fukenbroken1 Жыл бұрын

"Gear Skeptic" here on KZfaq did a fantastic study on stoves and stove efficiency. He presents a pretty good argument for the BRS stove. Running a stove at full blast is not the wisest use of fuel. Loved all your videos and this one is no exception.

@desperadodeluxe2292 Жыл бұрын

8:00 fiberglass poles can be replaced with some difficulty to aluminum ones off Amazon. I'd usually use a single aluminum tent pole with steel coghlans stakes to hold up a rainfly. Effectively making a floorless tent for cheap. Thanks for the tip on polyester vs nylon.👍

@rossjamieson2681 Жыл бұрын

Love your videos and this is no exception. Some cottage manufacturers opening in Australia, with gear for our conditions - we have some tough bush! Still prefer silpoly to DCF - it has some stretch, but does not absorb water like silnylon. Half the price too 😊

@viewsandreviews180 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing your thoughts on gear. When I started backpacking many pieces of gear I used were borrowed, “previously loved” or were gifted to me. So I’m glad you mentioned used gear. That said one piece I still have and use which should say something about it’s durability is my original backpack. It’s one thing I bought new (about $60 in 1975) and it’s still in pretty good shape (one zipper on a pouch gave out sometime ago and is secured by a toggle I made). The pack weighs about 1 1/2 to 2 pounds and that’s pretty good for a 2700 ci (about 45 liters) pack even today.

@chadwick4948 Жыл бұрын

hey dixie! hair looks great. Keep these awesome video coming!

@Galiuros Жыл бұрын

Lot's of good info here. I had no idea about the "comfort" temp vs the "survival" temp for sleeping bags. I always figured that a 20 degree bag meant that you would not get cold at night when it's 20 degrees out. A temp rating with two different definitions sounds like a marketing tactic. All in all I don't buy gear based on primarily on weight. The extra weight just means a harder workout. I should mention that I don't do thru-hikes. It's usually multi-days or section hikes on long trails. For me, it's durability. I've been backing southern Arizona and the west for over 40 years. The piece of gear I've replaced most, not counting footwear, are tents. I started with an old Army style pup-tent and made my way up to a Black Diamond Hilight 2P with vestibule with just about everything in between. The one that lasted the longest was a North Face Tadpole. Currently, I'm using an REI Passage 1 tent. So far so good. Thanks to Dixie for condensing so much information in a format that is understandable and fun to watch.

@j.j.savalle4714 Жыл бұрын

Cool that you showed Enlightened Equiptment on this vid. It's great gear and i know the owner. We packed together often before he started the comopany. thanks for the deep dive on gear.

@valsinchak4681 Жыл бұрын

Would love to see you do a review of etowah outfitters pack. Got it for my AT 2024 thru hike at hostel around the bend and its an amazing ultralight pack. And its made in Alabama. Its a great cottage company. Also paria outdoor company is a super overlooked cottage company that has great tents, sleep systems and accessories. I got their trekking pole tent, sleeping pad, quilt, pillow and am very pleased.

@JaredandTasha Жыл бұрын

Hammock Gear quilt 20 deg comfort deserved a shout. Affordable!

@thomashosch930 Жыл бұрын

Interesting video. You mentioned hiking the Arizona trail. How often do you resupply? Maybe you could do a video in the future of how you do the resupply. How often, where, what's in your resupply box. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

@eda715 Жыл бұрын

I use the Teton bag and it works well. I slept in it down to 30f and it was comfortable for me, but there were some cold spots below 40f. Wouldn’t want to trust it below 30 though.

@backpacker3421 Жыл бұрын

If you plan to use your gear more than once, it's VERY important to consider durability into the "actual" price. Tents and backpacks are the worst offenders by far. Buying a cheap tent say, that may struggle to last a full season before needing a replacement can be MUCH more expensive over time than biting the bullet and buying a high quality durable tent that may last you for 5-10 years. On the flipside, if you are just experimenting with camping/backpacking, don't worry about durability at all. Get the cheapest gear you can that will fit your needs, then upgrade as you go, because nothing is more expensive than the gear you buy and use a couple times before sending to live permanently in your garage.

@CrimeVid Жыл бұрын

A huge number of tents are sold to people like my daughter who will go to music festivals for a few days and leave the kit there on site, just walk away ! so cheap is good for them ! Before anyone shouts at me, the excuse is “ they charge ridiculous money for tickets and can afford it !”. And, “ the clean up crew need the money anyway” !

@nonservitium Жыл бұрын

I bought a "wilderness technology " 1p tent for around $100, almost 10 years ago. And it's awesome; Waterproof, warm, easy to pitch....that, and a tyvek ground sheet...golden...

@thomaslubben8559 Жыл бұрын

Hey Dixie, Love your channel and these reviews; been subscribed since your early AT days. I wonder if you have seen the studies on stove efficiency vs flame height and pot shape, and the water purification series, on the GearSkeptic channel. I think you might find it interesting. From some of his comments, (not negative) I suspect he follows you. All the best

@sneakybow1 Жыл бұрын

Katabatic quilt shells are sewn overseas and filled in Colorado. Been that way for a while now.

@arkycamper1126 Жыл бұрын

Great video, and good advice. Wanted to say that you may have footage of bigfoot at time marker 17:41. Top right corner of the video.

@kevinguthrie5495 Жыл бұрын

My guess: a truck barely visible thru the trees.

@drdirtkansas6824 Жыл бұрын

Thumbs up on the Frog Toggs... really a hit for our scout adventure canoeing in the Boundary waters as well as Backpacking at Philmont. Exccellent for 16 year olds when you want a set of gear to last ~ a week and be light.

@mainquest_official Жыл бұрын

Thank you for taking the time to make this video. Though I think sleeping pads comparison wasnt fair. Since they are both different. There are cheap versions of small pack sized inflatable pads.

@alextheis1123 Жыл бұрын

Great effort on this video my friend. Awesome info. Have fun in my home state of AZ!!!

@antoniom.andersen6704 Жыл бұрын

My friend wanted to start backpacking and just wanted some cheap gear. Found the sleeping bag, sleeping mat and tent used and for a cheap cook set he got the brs stove as you did and a Stanley Adventure Bowl + Spork Cookset which costs a little more than the Nesting Two Cup set. As for the backpack he found a Gregory Optic at a thrift store for 85dkk which is equivalent to ~$12 (I don't think they knew what they were selling 🤫). Apart from some wool socks he just used what he had at home.

@thetrailawaits498 Жыл бұрын

Have you attempted trying the hammock gear economy series quilts? I believe they are made with duck instead of goose, might be something to look into you may be fine with the duck.

@terrylstarks Жыл бұрын

Great and informative video!!! I love these expensive v. cheaper, Cottage v. mass produced, American v. China/Foreign companies etc. etc. etc. Thanks and I believe in my opinion, you were right on target on all your opinions!!!!!!!

@KaoticoEizex Жыл бұрын

First time I went backpacking I used "backpacking" gear from amazon, only the tent was 8 pounds, then I realized that it was amazing and decide to invest in lighter gear, my recomendation is to do a weight saving to cost analysis and decide if is worth to spend money on that item. For example I have been using the same 1 lb sleeping pad and 3.5 sleeping bag because cutting very little weight in those items will cost me a few hundreds. In the other hand and just to mention an example I changed my 8 lb tent to a 3 lb tent for 65 bucks (trekker 2.2) which made a huge difference. For someone like me that doesn't have problem carrying lightweight gear and goes only two times per year doesn't make sense to spend thousands in the lightest gear. But I also understand that hunting deals and looking for the best is also fun so I don't judge people that invest money in that.

@geo3802 Жыл бұрын

Very good video. I am definitely in the cheap gear camp not because I have a limited budget but because I backpack every few years and not more than 2-3 nights out. The two things I added a little cost on but not to the expensive rails are the bed pad and tent. Seems to me if you can't sleep no matter what else, you will be miserable. I have had 1-man and 1-2 man tents and I just find I like a little bigger tent made of a lighter material ie good warm weather tent. Your cheap bag is exactly what I use and you might not die at 20 degrees but it ain't for that. So, I also have an additional bag liner for those early Spring/late Fall adventures where it is possible for the evenings to drop below freezing. Seems to work.

@ihikefar Жыл бұрын

The Soto WindMaster stove is my go to now. More efficient and lighter than the Pocket Rocket.

@kristenvincent3622 Жыл бұрын

I have to say at 41 years old, during summer, a sleeping pad is usually the least of my concerns. I can almost always find a comfy spot to nap or even sleep, I’ve done as little as a wool blanket, but usually opt for ye olde blue foam roll… I actually prefer sleeping on the ground, the important part being finding just the right place.

@backpacker3421 Жыл бұрын

Closed cell foam is pretty consistent. That Walmart pad's R value is probably about a 2, based on other close cell foam pads of similar thickness. There's no real way to make that kind of pad more or less insulating than any other of the same type.

@dangerpudge1922 11 ай бұрын

It has probably been mentioned but if you have a Costco membership, you can get CARBON Cascade trekking poles with cork handles for around $35 (the last season they only had them in two-packs) for just shy of $70). They are phenomenal.

@sharingmatters Жыл бұрын

You must have spent days on making this video. Amazing and thorough. Now I get the differences in pricing.

@TheMidnightModder Жыл бұрын

Have you seen the Timmermade company? I've just been window shopping the guy's website but I'm impressed by the ideas and products! So I thought I'd bring him to your attention. I'd love to see you test out his sleeping quilts! They've a unique design. And his temperature ratings are a lot more realistic than any other seller, it seems.

@rachescakes Жыл бұрын

A recent episode on the How I Built This podcast has the founder of Osprey. He eventually moved manufacturing to Asia because he couldn’t get the quantity of skilled workers he needed in the US to keep up with demand. He also mentioned ability to more easily get materials. It was a really interesting episode and while I like to support American owned and manufactured companies, I better understand now why companies move manufacturing overseas.

@mtadams2009 Жыл бұрын

And you really believe that?

@doyouwanttogivemelekiss3097 Жыл бұрын

@@mtadams2009 understanding doesn't mean condoning, IMHO.

@danieldaniel7724 Жыл бұрын

Yeh but look at all the knock offs that hit the market or loss of income from other Asian companies that will take from Osprey.

@MrGpoulin Жыл бұрын

Having worked for manufacturing companies I can tell you that behind every product put on the market the idea is to sell it at the highest price that the market is willing to pay for it, while producing it at the lowest possible cost. The real reason why most companies moved their production to Asia is to actually lower production costs and increase profitability by doing so. To the contrary of what most people believe, there is no direct correlation between production cost and selling price. If that was the case, if a company managed to lower the production cost of a product, the selling price would go down, and we know it's almost never happening. When you have the notoriety of, say, Osprey, where the product is actually made is of no relevance in most buyers' mind.

@richardhenry1969 Жыл бұрын

So you believe American workers couldn’t compete with Asian. I’m sure it didn’t have anything to do with the high taxes in America and the cheap labor rate overseas. If Chinese workers are so wonderful why is quality always behind in gear out of China. Gullible Americans

@gregparrott Жыл бұрын

Excellent and detail summary! The only item where my preference differs is the stove. A stove like the 'Pocket Rocket' is lighter than a 'JetBoil'. But the extra weight offers worthy and unique benefits. #1) It includes the *cooking pot* . #2) it includes an *insulating jacket* (retain heat in the pot). #3) The stove's perimeter locks to the cooking pot (less risk of spillage). #4) Combined wind baffling/ *heat flux ring*. The flux ring directs more heat into the pot than the alternative. It's more fuel efficient. Also, wind baffling makes it much easier to both start and maintain the flame in windy conditions. #5) The combination of wind baffling, flux ring, insulated pot and interlocking stove/cup enables one to hold the entire assembly *while cooking*, and even do so without getting burned. Why do this? Because it can be a real convenience to use one's body to aid in wind protection. It also helps to hold it when breaking for lunch in an area where there's no level/stable place to place the stove. #6) Packable in assembled state? My JetBoil is very old. The old ones had a small flow control valve. When using the small fuel canister, I can slide the entire stove and canister inside the cooking pot ASSEMBLED. It is protected in the pot yet it enables me to slide it out, ready for use. Newer JetBoils incorporate a folding wire into the control valve. I've been told it obstructs sliding the stove and canister into the pot while assembled. But I think the wire part could be modified or removed to re-enable this convenience. A couple ounces weight premium relative to any comparable combination of parts seems well worth it. Combination = (Stove, pot, lid, insulating sleeve, wind baffle, interlocking stove/pot, *flux ring*

@tchaikca Жыл бұрын

I know this is an older post-- but I’m looking at swapping from a pocket rocket to a jetboil-which one do you recommend? I’ve been looking at the stash…but am not sure.

@gregparrott Жыл бұрын

@@tchaikca I have not owned a Pocket Rocket, which will limit my objectivity. However I have owned very similar stoves and base my perspective on that. By itself, the pocket rocket packs smaller and weighs less. But that's not a fair comparison. The Pocket Rocket is not kitted with a pot, a pot insulator surrounding it, or a lld. If you add the space and weight of those items so that the Pocket Rocket has equivalent function, the space and weight advantage seems marginal, especially given the Jetboil's benefits. The Jetboil's heat flux is its biggest selling point. It transfers a lot more heat into the pot instead of flowing past it. It uses less fuel and heats faster. Two side benefits of its improved thermal efficiency is it provides much better protection against wind sucking the heat away or snuffing out the flame. Second, it does such a good job of directing the heat into the pot instead of up past its sides that you can hold the pot just a couple inches up from the pot's base while its cooking and not get burned. It is easier to prop it by hand on unstable. Also, because the pot and stove interlock, you can hold the pot in hand with the stove attached to it and while cooking. I've done this to use my body as a wind shield. In contrast, with stoves like the Pocket Rocket, the pot is detached and can slide or tip off of the stove. I respect Dixie's choice and defer to her judgement for use on a demanding through hike. Clearly, she and you have valid reasons to choose the Pocket Rocket. All I can do is explain why I've used a Jetboil since it was first released ~20 years ago and only occasional use other ones just because I have them. I bought a second Jetboil a couple years ago because I wanted to try the larger diameter pot used in the 'Stash' model. But, perhaps because I am so accustomed to the tall/narrow pot, I prefer it over the larger 'Stash' pot. The tall/narrow packs smaller. And, as I previously mentioned, I can leave the fuel canister attached to the stove and slide both inside the pot for protection. (I generally don't pour food into the pot, so its walls are clean). When it's time to cook, I just slide the assembly out, twist-connect the pot, add some water, press the igniter, and I'm heating water, even without needing to find a place to rest it. Works for me.

@sampson1582 Жыл бұрын

I use a $35 Ozark Trails 1 man backpacking tent from walmart, and it's lighter (4.5 lbs) than her $250 tent and survived Philmont just fine. I intend to use it for many more backpacking trips as well, and it even did fine on cool nights with the double shell rain fly with no leaks whatsoever.

@sneakybow1 Жыл бұрын

She didn't list a $250 tent. The cheap tent she showed was $50 , the Z packs was over $600.

@therestorationshop Жыл бұрын

For me it has become pay for less weight or don't go. I don't really mind that, I'm just happy it is a problem money can solve. Great research like your's can save some money as well. Thanks for the video!

@seantran4178 Жыл бұрын

Hi Dixie, I say That would be lots of research before you do this video. Thank you for all the details between budges and materials. Keep doing a good job and as always love your videos.

@alaskabornheathen8902 Жыл бұрын

Does anyone shop based on materials and insulation? I vastly prefer wool or lamilite/climashield apex insulation. I also vastly prefer nylon over polyester. Scratch that, I will only buy nylon. It lasts longer and will not bond to your skin if it catches on fire! Wrangler makes nylon pants that you buy at Walmart for 26 bucks. I’ve been buying them up. They’ve been great over the last 6 months. Previously I’ve worn 70-90 dollar pants that weren’t made of nylon. I’ve found that REI brand rain gear is pretty solid. I scored some of the pants on sale for like 40 bucks, they are made of nylon and I’ve worn them walking through thick brush. They haven’t been affected at all. My rain jacket is imported but a local clothing company put some artwork on it and it’s honestly a very well made jacket. It’s a nylon Anorak with a big zippered kangaroo pocket. I paid like 80 bucks for it and I’d do it again.

@ashmaybe9634 Жыл бұрын

I agree nylon is tough but it does melt to your skin.

@alaskabornheathen8902 Жыл бұрын

@@ashmaybe9634 I don’t know why I never cross checked info. I heard that it didn’t melt to your skin unlike polyester from a veteran and from my most trusted clothing manufacturer. That said Wiggys clothing does perform to the standards that Wiggy says it will. But apparently will also melt to your skin…

@johnafagerquist8235 Жыл бұрын

I am certainly for supporting American companies(I'm an American), but I won't buy something inferior for the sake of patriotism, nor go into debt. My first "real" pack is still going to be an Osprey AG, like what you used on the AT. If it was good enough for you, it'll work for me. Definitely going inflatable for the pad. I'm not a masicist, after all. With no sleep, and aching hips, knees, and back, it ain't gonna matter how light your gear is. I really enjoyed this one!

@ashmaybe9634 Жыл бұрын

With some straps and the lid stripped off my Osprey Exos 48, it weighs 50g more than Dixie's Atom pack, cost me £100.

@johnafagerquist8235 Жыл бұрын

@@ashmaybe9634 That's what I wanted to hear! Thank you! 🙂👍

@paulsmart5199 Жыл бұрын

Aegismax down bags...great value for money and ultralight

@DavidSmith-fz8ju 5 ай бұрын

Ive "camped"in bigger tents for years n never had a fiberglass pole breack.maybe,trying to use a couple of poles left out to where the string is shot...still i dont remember ever getting more than a end split,just saing.

@Oh_Its_Jo Жыл бұрын

This is a really great video. Thanks for uploading!

@janwaller3585 11 ай бұрын

Excellent product review and suggestions. Thank you ❤️

@deannefalise2784 Жыл бұрын

I appreciate your videos. I have my gear but I still like watching these. 😃

@xuzme720 Жыл бұрын

I end up making most of my gear myself by using the same higher end, and usually lighter, materials the ultralight guys are using. Keeps it lighter and cheaper than I can buy it for, but I have to say, down is hard to get at reasonable prices like the fabrics are. The 10degree top quilt I'm working on now ran about $50 for the .66 calendared Membrane 10 Taffeta Nylon but the down set me back $70 a pound so the 20 or so ounces of fill will run me almost twice what the fabric did. But all together the quilt will be about 22-26 ounces which is much lighter than the 40 degree quilt I made with Apex synthetic fill. So all up I get a custom quilt with any feature I care to add for much less than $200 that will be comfortable at 20F and with the same materials as I would have to pay someone else $300-400 or probably more. I know making isn't for everyone, just saying it's how I get the gear I want at the price I can afford. Thanks for doing this, Dixie. It's nice to see the range of gear out there and to see a real comparison of what you get for the money.

@shelbywalker-adams1682 Жыл бұрын

@xuzme720 I know this sounds crazy, but instead of down, have you considered doodle fur? I say this because every time my husband and I shave our 80 pound goldendoodle, I think to myself “this stuff should get packed into a quilt.” My dog is ALWAYS hot. It will be 10 degrees Fahrenheit and my dog will be outside sleeping in the snow. Plus his fur is super lightweight! Anyhow, if you or a friend have a doodle, after they’ve been bathed and combed, ask the groomer to save their hair. You’ll see, it’s the warmest stuff you’ve ever tried!

@xuzme720 Жыл бұрын

@@shelbywalker-adams1682 That is probably not as crazy as it sounds. Natural material and renewable. My only question woulkd be loft after it's been compressed for a while. We have a Shi Tzu and a Morkie and after grooming, their fur doesn't seem to loft much once you ball it up. Is Doodle fur different in that respect?

@shelbywalker-adams1682 Жыл бұрын

@@xuzme720 I think so! Because it’s curly and frizzy. But honestly, my brother and I are going to try it this summer. He’s super talented with a sewing machine. So I told him I wanted to try it. I feel like I should send you some to experiment and find out!

@backpacker3421 Жыл бұрын

Folks, I HIGHLY recommend using Sawyer filters. Dan Becker just did an AWESOME video about why. Sawyer puts essentially ALL of its proceeds into providing filtration for impoverished African communities that have no other way to get clean drinking water. For me, that alone with well worth every penny and it's why my filter is Sawyer, my insect repellent and clothing treatments are Sawyer, and even my sunscreen is Sawyer brand. Everything they makes works well and I can especially testify to the insect repellent. It was standard issue for all the missions I did supporting US Embassies and Consolates in Africa, and I never even once got a mosquito bite in a combined period of about a year, which included a fair amount of work in the rainy seasons of various countries when the mosquitos are all over the place.

@alanfoix9911 Жыл бұрын

I rode bicycle across America and around America for years. I did so .on the cheap end. I stayed warm and dry. In all weather. Great video. It was back in the 80s, till my last ride in 2007. Peace and love every one

@that__one__guy5405 Жыл бұрын

Great video (and hair!). Thank you! Your videos are fantastic!

@BarbaraBlackthorn 6 ай бұрын

Mystery Ranch packs. Hands down the most comfortable pack I've ever owned.

@leannepar6 Жыл бұрын

Another gem, Dixie! Your resources are invaluable esp for the just gettin started thru-hiker like me. Thanks!

@hremaddox Жыл бұрын

Thank you, Dixie!

@ashmaybe9634 Жыл бұрын

Fizan poles are excellent. £60 and the lightest I have found. Spare parts are available which is great.

@tylergrove Жыл бұрын

You are the best thing I've seen in a very long time

@keiferalford7961 Жыл бұрын

Plastic spoon...Ozark trail long handle spoon...about a buck and indestructible. Try it...I love mine and it's long enough to reach the bottom of camping meal bags.

@nickinderrieden7630 Жыл бұрын

Or as a pack liner you could nest a few trash bags, and you would have redundancy, light weight, lowest cost, easily replaceable, and spare trash bags that are also constantly working as a pack liner.

@rungavagairun Жыл бұрын

Durston Kakwa 55 comes with hip belt and shoulder strap pockets and the large size weighs 30 oz. Only costs $265.

@KC3YCU 6 ай бұрын

I live about 10 minutes from the AT, and i have some Walmart gear that's probably fine for an overnight, so I'm in a good position to try it and see if i like it before dropping some coin

@brianbarrows6087 Жыл бұрын

You've topped yourself once again. Great video, great reviews. Keep it up. Thanks!

@atlasboogie Жыл бұрын

Very informative video. Thanks for making. Also, your eyes are glowing with inner beauty that is impossible to ignore. :)

@HomemadeWanderlust Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much 🙂

@HomemadeWanderlust Жыл бұрын

Feeling a lot happier and healthier these days ♥️

@AB-kg6rk Жыл бұрын

I just made the jump from walmart tent to an rei tent. Yes the rei is worth 4x more and should last a longer time. Love your logic and video production skills.

@_68niou1 Жыл бұрын

What you called seam tape on the Aglory is just stitching backer.

@BanjaraHillbillies Жыл бұрын

Hi, Dixie! At 66... (I have been backpacking since I was 14!) ... I have gear older than you are! I have a mish-mash of stuff... cheap, expensive, whatever works!

@MaxLotfi Жыл бұрын

A couple of mistakes: DCF is not strongest fabric in the world. Neither it is in the hiking community. Ultra fabric is using UHMWPE ,similar to Dyneema fibers but it is 3 times stronger. Polyester, similar to DCF, is hydrophobic. It does not absorb water. Nylon is hydrophilic and absorbs water.

@donalddicorcia2433 Жыл бұрын

It’s called the “Law of Diminishing Returns”. And applies to nearly everything.

@musingwithreba9667 Жыл бұрын

I think the Big 3 are important to spend a bit of money on, because those are the things going to keep you alive basically. If you buy a cheap leaky tent, and a sleeping bag that's not going to keep you warm, then you're going to be miserable and potentially get hypothermia. Not fun! And a backpack that is too heavy, or not suited to your body type, is going to make you feel like you're dying! An ill fitting backpack will surely make you hate hiking! But there are still products out there that are affordable and lightweight. Just maybe not ultra light. We pick and choose our battles. 😊

@matthewscoggins8668 Жыл бұрын

I've used the trailhead down to about 28⁰F and it's not too bad, but when out on the trails I sleep in clothes usually and 20⁰ is about as low as I would go then. It's also very roomy for people with wider shoulders or longer bodies.

@rjensen2586 Жыл бұрын

I have a weird mishmash of ridiculously cheap and ridiculously expensive gear. 😂 On the expensive end, I have a Z-packs tent and a Dyneema tarp from Bearpaw Designs. Nemo tensors and Thermarest Neo-airs (one xtherm) for trips by myself or with other people. But I carry my stuff in an outdoor products pack I got at Walmart for like 30 bucks about 10 years ago, haha. I could probably use an upgrade but it works for now. I use bread bags for camp shoes and garbage bags for pack liners. I always have mylar emergency blankets but I'd like to make a tyvek bivy too. I have a cheap Costco down comforter I put a zipper in the bottom of and it's a great three season quilt. Basically I feel like some stuff is worth paying more for, especially when it comes to comfort and safety. But a lot of things can be diy'd or rethought.

@rjensen2586 Жыл бұрын

I also have a seven dollar piezo ignition stove I bought on Amazon years ago, still going strong. I made a cat food can alcohol stove for when I want to go lighter. Or I may not carry one at all. Depends on the trip. Frogg toggs for my rain jacket. Cheap Amazon rain skirt, or you can make your own. Empty yogurt containers make great little drinking cups if you sand the edges a little.

@rjensen2586 Жыл бұрын

And I just looooooove Sawyer products. Fan for life. I even bought a tap filter for our house when we were on a boil order recently.

@rjensen2586 Жыл бұрын

So sorry, one more thing. I love using my heavy Ursack as my food bag in bear country because I sleep much better at night. 😁 😴

@SimonAmazingClarke 11 ай бұрын

The big factor is are you weekending, or spending months on the trail. Then you need to work out a cost to weight ratio, what ever works for you. I'm only going to be doing two days max so happier to go a bit heavier for less cost.

@stitch3163 Жыл бұрын

I don’t make long comments, Dixie, so… this was a super helpful video. Loved it.

@alysiachristensen5475 Жыл бұрын

Great episode! Thanks!!!😊

@averydaily Жыл бұрын

I think the all of black diamonds equipment is made in the USA, Utah to be specific.

@notquiteultralight1701 Жыл бұрын

This was an amazing research guide! Thank you so much Dixie! Very helpful! NQU

@dm3035 Ай бұрын

GREAT REVIEW - THANK YOU 🤗🤗🤗🤗

@johncheeseman6764 Жыл бұрын

Great video, when are you getting a flextail pump?

@Blair1Collins Жыл бұрын

Nice work, as usual. :-) Thank you. Great post. :-)

@dangaspar1707 Жыл бұрын

Dixie - great video as always. My experience with the lever locks on my Black Diamond poles is not as good as yours. I have had to tighten at least every 100 miles and sometimes more often. I carry a tiny Allen wrench because of that.

@BloodhoundMark Жыл бұрын

Gear question - Dixie, do you track your hikes on a sports watch? If so, what do you use? My Garmin 235 only has the battery to track a 15 mile hike. Thanks and I absolutely love your channels and your integrity!

@1200airhead Жыл бұрын

Hi,Dixe, first of all thank you so much for helping me discover hiking. Do you have a video of navigating while on trail when the trail isn't so clearly marked. Grandma Gatewood didn't have a gps or cell phone. Would knowing how to read a map and use a compass help in this situation. What about looking for signs of where the trail starts again, signs etc.? I plan on doing my first through hike on the Juan de Fuca. Or do you think that to much for a newbie?