Somewhat addicted to backpacking videos of all sort, and I have to say -- This is a very quality and pleasant video to watch, especially it being only your forth upload. I've no doubt that your subscribers will grow dramatically.
Damn I LOVED this. No fluff, clever cinematography, and your gear list all sounded super intuitive even though I would have never have thought of some of those things. I would like to leave a vote for the Exped SynMat HL for it's warmth, weight and packability. I haven't had it leak on me yet and I've had multiple problems with Thermarest pads in the past :)
This was an awesome review! I loved the quick cuts and the short explanations. I find my self getting easily distracted in gear loadout but you really kept me interested. Great video
Plastic bottles microscopically crack evey time you squeeze them, which goes into your water. Look on the bottom of your bottles for that little triangle with a number inside it. Any number less than a '5' leaches chemicals into the water. Those two year old bottles are pretty toxic by now. No, it's not going to kill you or make you immediately sick but it's a good idea to get new ones often. I replace these kind of bottles every other town as you can taste the plastic in the water soon after the first few refills. They were designed for one time usage.
you replacing your bottles is very wasteful though. they were NOT designed for "single usage". they are actually designed to be re-used. your info is very inaccurate. the plastic only leaches into water in hot temperatures, hotter than anything you will find naturally. cold water is not going to get any chemical leaching at all.
@@orion7741 You can absolutely taste the plastic in the water from these bottles after a while of use, especially when they sit exposed to the sun all day on the outside of your pack.
@@HikeYourHurtOut for real man! our world is so f,ed just enjoy the small ammount of toxic time you have, dont waste it caring about plastic in your water lmao
That's why I've kept them. I know they're probably leeching micro plastic in my water but I told myself I would use the bottle until it broke just to see what it could put up with and I'm sticking with it.
Dude great video! I had to watch it with my volume off. I’ll watch again with sound later, but honestly I don’t think need it! You did such a phenomenal job explaining everything visually.
One of the best gear videos Ive watched (and Ive watched too many...) To the point, engaging and you have a great narrating voice, so nice to listen to. Hope to see more content. Take care
I like the Talenti Gelato jars. I like the Chocolate Fudge or the Double Dark Chocolate at the grocery store , ice cream section. When someone asks me about them I tell them it's hard work emptying them but it has to be done. When asked how do you empty them ? I eat all of the Ice Cream in them. lol. I also use them at home for cold soaking Oatmeal , Old fashion Oats , 1/2 cup , some All Spice , 1/4 cup dried cranberries , a squirt of maple syrup , a pinch of salt and one cup of milk. Shake it up , put in frig and in the morning breakfast is ready. Beside using them for cold soaking they also work quite well as waterproof containers. So when shopping for them ( if you can ) find a ( BOGO ) Buy One Get One , sale.
the big three...pack, shelter, and sleep system...the gatewood poncho, provides three uses....rain cover, pack cover and shelter....at about 11 ozs.....jacks r better stealth quilt....is a sleeping bag and can be used as a poncho, replacing the puffy.....saving weight and precious space, in the pack, maybe allowing for a smaller pack...
Interesting gear list. MY BIG 5 UL GEAR LIST: 1.)PACK-> Osprey EXOS 58 2.) TENT-> Tarptent Notch Li (Dyneema fabric) 3.) SLEEPING BAG->Western Mountaineering overstuffed Megalite down bag 4.)MATTRESS->REI FLASH Insulated 3 season 5.)STOVE/POT-> Brunton Crux canister-top, Open Country anodized aluminum 3 cup pot & lid
Always bring and use two poles for hiking at all times one It will almost help prevent you from rolling your ankle falling slipping tripping when walking on slippery rocks accross a river or down hill or up hill on slippery leaves and loose dirt and sand surfaces I love hiking poles, I'm 30 and been using hiking poles since I was 11 in bouscouts. Only difference between my pack and yours is that I have a fishing pole that is telescoping rod and reel with a tiny tackle box with baits and hooks ECT and have fished some of thespt amazing secluded areas you could imagine, bass fished under a giant waterfall and fished for rainbow trout and salmon in a beautiful rivers and ponds on the trails plus it gives you a nice little dinner when you catch one or two nice fish
Really enjoyed this video, love how worn down and used your gear looked because it shows that you use them heavily and it works for you. I've watched several other gear videos and I didn't notice how nice and clean other people's gear looked until I watched this one. I can really believe that you hiked the PCT with this gear. I also love how you use basic everyday items like a trash bag or plastic baggie for storing things. I don't backpack (going to try next spring!) but I travel with only a small backpack, and when I first started, I used ziplock bags and other containers I had in my house for organization and storage. So it's nice to see a pro do the same! The only thing that I raised an eyebrow at was the clothing but that's because I personally get cold very easily. I would definitely add base layers and a puffy to my kit. Overall, so cool to see that you hiked the entire PCT with so little!
Thanks for the comment! There's so many fancy things marketed towards hikers and backpackers but honestly a lot of it just isn't worth it imo. Save the money and spend it on the really important bigger items! I think people should always hike with what keeps them safe and comfortable. Obviously there is a difference between weekend backpacking and long distance hiking! You should always pack according to your trip and what works for you but more often than not people can be comfortable with less than they think :)
Some people are much harder on gear than others. I treat my UL gear very gently. I am not saying he is hard on gear. UL gear is just not made as durable in general especially the packs.
thanks for the vid trying to go ul or close to it .just brought (used ) a hyperlight 34 ,for my ADT trip ,learn on the PCT last year weight is a killer
Ah...the Hexamid Solo Plus! An old school shelter back when we used to say "cuben" not "DCF." I had a Hexamid from around 2013 - 2018. And I still say “Cuben” haha. Thanks for the video!
Would definitely recommend it. At the very least, give it a try at home and see what you think. I have used the lab bottles in almost every environment on the west coast and I can't imagine using anything else.
I also had the neoair xlite leak. So annoying! I have the xtherm now which seems to hold air better. I sent mine in as defective it was just so leaky! Next time I do a long trail I think I'll just go with a foam pad because it won't fail haha.
Glad I'm not alone on that one haha 😂 I have a zlite foam pad but I hate how bulky it is. Folding up an inflatable against the back panel is so efficient.
Sea to Summit Ultralight is the way to go for sleeping pads. It's a bit heavier than the Neoair but is made from far more durable materials. It sounds like a sham, but the pillow lock compatibility with their pillows is legit - your pillow stays in place all night (I only mention this because their pillows are a popular item & a great/light way to increase comfortability on longer trips!).
Great video btw! I'm going SOBO this season. I'm pretty married to the big items that I have (pack, sleeping bag, shelter) but found a few of the smaller items useful! Another sleeper item of mine that I love is my pack. I use the Salomon Outweek 38+6 pack, which doesn't get a lot of love in the hiking community. I believe that I found mine online for less than $200. It's framed so it offers more support than many ultralight packs, while only coming in at 28.7 ounces without the 6L lid. That weight with a 38-liter capacity makes it one of the lighter packs of its size, with or without a frame, plus an option to add another 6-liters of space for a mere addition of 5 more ounces. It's also pretty darn sturdy & probably the most breathable pack I've ever owned. Nothing like a cool breeze on your back while your hiking. I'm leaving a bit later than normal so I got a long-distance permit from Hart's Pass & will be self-permitting the first section from the Canadian border, since they don't issue permits with start dates in August from the border. However, if I can maintain my pace on my first true thru-hike this past summer (29.9miles/day) I should be able to catch up to much of the pack by the time I hit the Sierra. Pray for the snow to hold off until November for us!
Thanks for the tip! Ill definitely look into that pad. Never had one from S2S but I'll do some research :) Good luck on the thru! August is definitely a late start and a 30mpd average is definitely ambitious IMO but people definitely do it. Keep in mind that your average gets absolutely crushed from time in town. The Sierra's got wicked cold at the beginning of October when I was going through so be prepared for some weather if you are there late.
@@alan_long Totally, all around it's a nifty piece of gear. I'm not sure that I'll ever go back to a rubber sleeping pad after using the S2S pads waffle-like design, the comfort is top-notch. For a thru-hike your sleep system is crucial and I think the 3 ounces is worth it, in comparison to the Neoair. The valve system is super low profile and not prone to as much wear as thermarests valve are, too. And thank you! I'm finishing up my AA over the summer so I can't leave until the summer quarter ends. Luckily Washington is home for me so I'll be starting in my own backyard/same area I'll be training. I got things pretty dialed in on my 356-mile thru this summer, and hope to increase my average trail time from 10.5 hours to 12 hours per day this go around. That way if my pace is slightly slower over the course of 2,650 miles, I make up for it via attrition. I going to put my head down until I'm through the Sierra and then take more time to enjoy the trail towns in California, where I've spent far less time. The plan is to only spend longer in town than needed to resupply if I'm ailing because I've been to many of these trail towns already. But, plans always change. It would be really cool to hike the whole trail before I go back to school in January, but if the big snow comes early and I miss my window, I'm okay with sectioning parts out for safety.
I like foam pads because of quick set up. Not as comfy But durable. I also use the Zelter Shelter which is not very light but is so quick and easy to set up. I'm experimenting with the Gatewood Cape and Serenity net tent to lighten weight. It is not as easy to set up and let's a lot more cool air in which can be not great in Minnesota winter. Thanks for the video.
Hadn't seen this one before, just checked it out. I guess our definitions of light are slightly different. Nemo's website has it listed at 1lb15oz so pretty much 2 pounds. That's a full pound heavier than the neoair.
I was missing a few pieces of gear in the quality/weight that I wanted. Our opinions are so similar, you’ve convinced me to look into those few extra things I need.
Great video. Well done Alan. Enjoyed so much I had to subscribe. No fluff, no cute crap. Content like this? Top of the line. There are 4 other hiker whose video I follow. Alan is #5
Really cool video. It's super interesting to see what kind of stuff people bring for these kinds of trips. For me going hiking, although I really respect going minimalist like this, I still need my comforts. At least a pillow and a book. Maybe a few beers too.
Totally understandable. Casual backpacking and long distance hiking are two different ball games. I used my food bag as a pillow almost every night. No need to sacrifice comfort hehe.
@@alan_long Hehe, comfort is king. :) I would like to go for a longer hike (4-5 days) sometime soon. But, for a trips like that, I don't think a little bit of extra junk in the trunk will be a problem.
Thanks for the overview. As for sleep pads, take a look at the Klymit Static V Insulated Light. I've had others and am really happy with this. Higher R value than most.
Great gear video! Thanks so much for this! Currently going over my pack for my upcoming PCT thru hike so cheers for the tips. If anyone fancies following me on my journey starting this April, I’ll be vlogging the entire hike on my channel! Happy trails everyone ☺️🙏🏻🥾
Yes - sleep pads are an issue. I've had the best luck with the Sea-to-Summit Ether Light. Most pads are engineered down to a weight and use a cheap and cheerful bonding method for the baffles. The Ether Light uses superior bonding technology and was engineered for comfort and reliability. Compared to the XLite I find it much quieter, much more comfortable and much more reliable. Of course you pay a price in terms of weight - as always with lightweight gear it's a question of trade-offs. For someone like me who's not exactly in the first flush of youth, a good night's sleep is priceless on the trail. So I'm happy to carry the equivalent of a couple of cups of water extra to help ensure that. If you want to win pissing contests over pack weight, by all means go with the XLite...
@@alan_long Although I'm a 5' 10' guy, I use the large women's insulated. Bit warmer than the men's. Has a lozenge shape that's great for side-sleepers - for the first time ever I have a pad where my knees don't hang off the edges! If you're a smallish guy you might get away with the women's regular. They have a number of other sizes, shapes and levels of insulation, though they can sometimes be a bit hard to track down. Excellent valve, that's easy to service in the field. Much the most reliable baffles in the industry (they use a technology from the medical/aerospace field), and very comfortable too. Quality fabric that doesn't seem to pinhole. Innovative attachment for their pillow that really works (game changer for me). Wider than it looks, because the edges don't collapse. Fairly quiet. Reasonable inflation bag. Interestingly, the manager and most of the staff at my local outfitter have all bought one - with their own money. I've tried most of 'em over the years, and this is much the best I know unless you're a gram weenie that prioritises weight over reliability and comfort. Props to StoS for rethinking the sleeping pad from the ground up and coming up with something superior.
thank you very helpful... how much water did you carry from campo to kennedy meadows... and what food did you pack.. what were the average high and low weight packs.
Great video with zero hype. What was your base weight? And no spare clothes other than the socks? Just thinking about when in town and washing clothes or did you do that along the trail? Thanks in advance.
Check the lighterpack link for all the weights! And I washed clothes in hotel bathtubs or had loaner clothes at hostels/trail angels houses. But yes, my clothes got dirty. It's gonna happen 😄
I did sew it. Probably won't make a video on that but here's a simple explanation: -Get a pair of leggings -At the ankle, cut off the bottom 6ish inches -sew the "ankle" (front and back) together -finish the top with elastic or install a cinch cord -Machine or hand sew that to the pack.
Nice gear setup! Try a super thin pad like a Decathalon Hiking Foam or GG 1/8th under an uberlite or xlite. Your battle is probably against needle sharp points and focused pressure from your body. There is nothing that can be done but create distance between the pad and the ground. Good luck!
heyy, youtube sent me here because i like watching gear videos. and it turns out to be one of my favorites ever! i really enjoy your editing style and choice of music and i can see you have a great sense of humor by the way you present every item! :) totally subscribing and checking out your other videos!
This is the most relaxing gear video I've ever watched. Well done!
Yes!!! Haha, So boring I usually skip them.
@@frankynodots glad the soothing music didn't put you to sleep lololol
@@alan_long the music and production were good. It autoplayed for me again today and I just let it roll. I subscribed just because of that gear video.
I came here to say this.
This is one of the best "What's in my backpack?" vids I've ever seen. Ultralight on the useless talking, as well!
Somewhat addicted to backpacking videos of all sort, and I have to say -- This is a very quality and pleasant video to watch, especially it being only your forth upload. I've no doubt that your subscribers will grow dramatically.
Thanks for the feedback ☺️ really do appreciate it!
For real. Great fucking video. Based on the quality I would’ve guessed he had been making them for years
Damn I LOVED this. No fluff, clever cinematography, and your gear list all sounded super intuitive even though I would have never have thought of some of those things. I would like to leave a vote for the Exped SynMat HL for it's warmth, weight and packability. I haven't had it leak on me yet and I've had multiple problems with Thermarest pads in the past :)
Thanks! I'll definitely check that pad out. Thanks for the recommendation 🙂
Great video...finally someone else that doesn't use a puffy
Best shorts and poncho demo ever! Seriously though very well done gear vid. I liked how you did the voice over while showing the gear.
Yay for thrift store finds! It's wear I get all my fleece. Great place to check first for gear
This was an awesome review! I loved the quick cuts and the short explanations. I find my self getting easily distracted in gear loadout but you really kept me interested. Great video
happy you found it helpful! more on the way :D
I love how your calming your video is and that all your gear shows the character of your travels.
Plastic bottles microscopically crack evey time you squeeze them, which goes into your water. Look on the bottom of your bottles for that little triangle with a number inside it. Any number less than a '5' leaches chemicals into the water. Those two year old bottles are pretty toxic by now. No, it's not going to kill you or make you immediately sick but it's a good idea to get new ones often. I replace these kind of bottles every other town as you can taste the plastic in the water soon after the first few refills. They were designed for one time usage.
you replacing your bottles is very wasteful though. they were NOT designed for "single usage". they are actually designed to be re-used. your info is very inaccurate. the plastic only leaches into water in hot temperatures, hotter than anything you will find naturally. cold water is not going to get any chemical leaching at all.
@@orion7741 Enjoy.
@@orion7741 You can absolutely taste the plastic in the water from these bottles after a while of use, especially when they sit exposed to the sun all day on the outside of your pack.
Who cares
You're not going to live forever
Enjoy your hike
@@HikeYourHurtOut for real man! our world is so f,ed just enjoy the small ammount of toxic time you have, dont waste it caring about plastic in your water lmao
Loved the background soundtrack, this was very chilled! Thanks for sharing
This was the perfect gear list video
This a remarkably efficient video. Well done.
The fact that you've had those plastic smart water bottles for 2 years really shows how ludicrous it is that they're widely regarded as single-use
That's why I've kept them. I know they're probably leeching micro plastic in my water but I told myself I would use the bottle until it broke just to see what it could put up with and I'm sticking with it.
@@alan_long that’s one risky gamble with your health...
@Thoth Al Khem bro calm down
They are single use. I almost threw up seeing him hold up those busted up Smart bottles. Great video, though.
@@Seanonyoutube microplastics are already being found in basically all our water.
Love how chill and original this is - feel like a lot of hiking videos now have the same gear and editing style
Dude great video! I had to watch it with my volume off. I’ll watch again with sound later, but honestly I don’t think need it! You did such a phenomenal job explaining everything visually.
Just watched it again with sound. Wish I could like it twice. Thanks for the shakedown!
Great overview, no frills explanations.
One of the best gear videos Ive watched (and Ive watched too many...)
To the point, engaging and you have a great narrating voice, so nice to listen to.
Hope to see more content.
Take care
Glad you enjoyed it! ☺️
I like the Talenti Gelato jars. I like the Chocolate Fudge or the Double Dark Chocolate at the grocery store , ice cream section. When someone asks me about them I tell them it's hard work emptying them but it has to be done. When asked how do you empty them ? I eat all of the Ice Cream in them. lol.
I also use them at home for cold soaking Oatmeal , Old fashion Oats , 1/2 cup , some All Spice , 1/4 cup dried cranberries , a squirt of maple syrup , a pinch of salt and one cup of milk. Shake it up , put in frig and in the morning breakfast is ready.
Beside using them for cold soaking they also work quite well as waterproof containers. So when shopping for them ( if you can ) find a ( BOGO ) Buy One Get One , sale.
the big three...pack, shelter, and sleep system...the gatewood poncho, provides three uses....rain cover, pack cover and shelter....at about 11 ozs.....jacks r better stealth quilt....is a sleeping bag and can be used as a poncho, replacing the puffy.....saving weight and precious space, in the pack, maybe allowing for a smaller pack...
Awesome video showing all your gear in detail without all the BS! Well done!
Thanks! Glad ya liked it
It’s amazing that a blind man can both hike the PCT and do so ultra lightly! Congratulations to you, sir! Well done!
Interesting gear list. MY BIG 5 UL GEAR LIST: 1.)PACK-> Osprey EXOS 58 2.) TENT-> Tarptent Notch Li (Dyneema fabric) 3.) SLEEPING BAG->Western Mountaineering overstuffed Megalite down bag 4.)MATTRESS->REI FLASH Insulated 3 season 5.)STOVE/POT-> Brunton Crux canister-top, Open Country anodized aluminum 3 cup pot & lid
Extremely well put together video. Its just gear, but the entire thing is just smooth...
Great stuff. Short, to the point, spot-on. With all that thrift-store gear, you have yourself quite a groovin' look...especially the shades!
very chill the subtle raspy figured things out vibes iz real
What a great video. Great music, great gear, unique choices, smart and well filmed. Thank you.
Strong output Alan, format is clean
Thanks man 🤘
Always bring and use two poles for hiking at all times one It will almost help prevent you from rolling your ankle falling slipping tripping when walking on slippery rocks accross a river or down hill or up hill on slippery leaves and loose dirt and sand surfaces I love hiking poles, I'm 30 and been using hiking poles since I was 11 in bouscouts. Only difference between my pack and yours is that I have a fishing pole that is telescoping rod and reel with a tiny tackle box with baits and hooks ECT and have fished some of thespt amazing secluded areas you could imagine, bass fished under a giant waterfall and fished for rainbow trout and salmon in a beautiful rivers and ponds on the trails plus it gives you a nice little dinner when you catch one or two nice fish
Everything is fine! But where is the food? What are you carrying it in if the backpack is already almost full?
Hey thank you for making this video. This is my fav gear list on youtube so far! Well done
this deserves many more likes and attention, just subscribed too
Thanks for the feedback 🙏
Really enjoyed this video, love how worn down and used your gear looked because it shows that you use them heavily and it works for you. I've watched several other gear videos and I didn't notice how nice and clean other people's gear looked until I watched this one. I can really believe that you hiked the PCT with this gear.
I also love how you use basic everyday items like a trash bag or plastic baggie for storing things. I don't backpack (going to try next spring!) but I travel with only a small backpack, and when I first started, I used ziplock bags and other containers I had in my house for organization and storage. So it's nice to see a pro do the same!
The only thing that I raised an eyebrow at was the clothing but that's because I personally get cold very easily. I would definitely add base layers and a puffy to my kit. Overall, so cool to see that you hiked the entire PCT with so little!
Thanks for the comment! There's so many fancy things marketed towards hikers and backpackers but honestly a lot of it just isn't worth it imo. Save the money and spend it on the really important bigger items!
I think people should always hike with what keeps them safe and comfortable. Obviously there is a difference between weekend backpacking and long distance hiking! You should always pack according to your trip and what works for you but more often than not people can be comfortable with less than they think :)
Some people are much harder on gear than others. I treat my UL gear very gently. I am not saying he is hard on gear. UL gear is just not made as durable in general especially the packs.
This is very therapeutic,you've just earned a subscriber my sir
Very informative as to just how much "fluff" we think we need and what we actually need.
Big thanks for the insightful video!
Very nice , I’m going to rewatch .
thanks for the vid trying to go ul or close to it .just brought (used ) a hyperlight 34 ,for my ADT trip ,learn on the PCT last year weight is a killer
Ah...the Hexamid Solo Plus! An old school shelter back when we used to say "cuben" not "DCF." I had a Hexamid from around 2013 - 2018. And I still say “Cuben” haha. Thanks for the video!
Glad ya liked it! Just picked up a new hex for this summers explorations!
@@alan_long Nice! I sold mine and am using the Plexamid now but still have the Hexamid Solo tarp, it’s a great shelter for when there’s no bugs
Was nice to see that you don't use the exact same gear as everyone else. Nice choices. Thanks for the relaxing content and keep hiking!!
Thanks for the comment!
Loved your break down and editing. Leaving for the Colorado Trail in a months
Thanks! Gonna be on the CT too! Starting July ish.
Great explanations and love the chill background music. Good vibes in this video.
Glad you liked it! Currently hiking the Colorado trail but I have some trips that I'll edit soon ish hah!
I've had a ton of great luck with Klymit Static V sleeping pads - no leaking at all.
Good video loved the lab wash bottle thanks for the link 🐾🐾👣
I have no plans on going back to toilet paper anytime soon
great idea for the "cleaning bottle." I've seen some alpine trails here in washington ruined by people using the bathroom irresponsibly.
Would definitely recommend it. At the very least, give it a try at home and see what you think. I have used the lab bottles in almost every environment on the west coast and I can't imagine using anything else.
ngl that squeeze bottle "bidet" is genius! stealing that.
I also had the neoair xlite leak. So annoying! I have the xtherm now which seems to hold air better. I sent mine in as defective it was just so leaky! Next time I do a long trail I think I'll just go with a foam pad because it won't fail haha.
Glad I'm not alone on that one haha 😂 I have a zlite foam pad but I hate how bulky it is. Folding up an inflatable against the back panel is so efficient.
The places you poop part got me. Amazing!
Best trekking gear video ever. Period.
Glad you think so!
I like the idea of carrying the empty bear canister on the outside!
I switched to a larger pack for the sierra’s because of that thing.
I’ve had bears walk into camp uninvited. I keep my food in the can at all times.
One of the best gear videos
Thanks!
Thank you so much! Great video!
Great video. I love to see other people's set ups
Very interesting and informative! Thanks!
Great review! Very well done! Keep up the good work!
Thanks! Hope it helped. Let me know if you have any questions :)
Really enjoyed this vid! Thanks!
Sea to Summit Ultralight is the way to go for sleeping pads. It's a bit heavier than the Neoair but is made from far more durable materials. It sounds like a sham, but the pillow lock compatibility with their pillows is legit - your pillow stays in place all night (I only mention this because their pillows are a popular item & a great/light way to increase comfortability on longer trips!).
Great video btw! I'm going SOBO this season. I'm pretty married to the big items that I have (pack, sleeping bag, shelter) but found a few of the smaller items useful! Another sleeper item of mine that I love is my pack. I use the Salomon Outweek 38+6 pack, which doesn't get a lot of love in the hiking community. I believe that I found mine online for less than $200. It's framed so it offers more support than many ultralight packs, while only coming in at 28.7 ounces without the 6L lid. That weight with a 38-liter capacity makes it one of the lighter packs of its size, with or without a frame, plus an option to add another 6-liters of space for a mere addition of 5 more ounces. It's also pretty darn sturdy & probably the most breathable pack I've ever owned. Nothing like a cool breeze on your back while your hiking.
I'm leaving a bit later than normal so I got a long-distance permit from Hart's Pass & will be self-permitting the first section from the Canadian border, since they don't issue permits with start dates in August from the border. However, if I can maintain my pace on my first true thru-hike this past summer (29.9miles/day) I should be able to catch up to much of the pack by the time I hit the Sierra. Pray for the snow to hold off until November for us!
Thanks for the tip! Ill definitely look into that pad. Never had one from S2S but I'll do some research :)
Good luck on the thru! August is definitely a late start and a 30mpd average is definitely ambitious IMO but people definitely do it. Keep in mind that your average gets absolutely crushed from time in town. The Sierra's got wicked cold at the beginning of October when I was going through so be prepared for some weather if you are there late.
@@alan_long Totally, all around it's a nifty piece of gear. I'm not sure that I'll ever go back to a rubber sleeping pad after using the S2S pads waffle-like design, the comfort is top-notch. For a thru-hike your sleep system is crucial and I think the 3 ounces is worth it, in comparison to the Neoair. The valve system is super low profile and not prone to as much wear as thermarests valve are, too.
And thank you! I'm finishing up my AA over the summer so I can't leave until the summer quarter ends. Luckily Washington is home for me so I'll be starting in my own backyard/same area I'll be training. I got things pretty dialed in on my 356-mile thru this summer, and hope to increase my average trail time from 10.5 hours to 12 hours per day this go around. That way if my pace is slightly slower over the course of 2,650 miles, I make up for it via attrition. I going to put my head down until I'm through the Sierra and then take more time to enjoy the trail towns in California, where I've spent far less time. The plan is to only spend longer in town than needed to resupply if I'm ailing because I've been to many of these trail towns already. But, plans always change. It would be really cool to hike the whole trail before I go back to school in January, but if the big snow comes early and I miss my window, I'm okay with sectioning parts out for safety.
ribbed*** not rubber, autocorrect got me.
Great video! Straight to the point.
thanks for the feedback :) glad you found it helpful
Like the style and quality of video.
I like foam pads because of quick set up. Not as comfy But durable. I also use the Zelter Shelter which is not very light but is so quick and easy to set up. I'm experimenting with the Gatewood Cape and Serenity net tent to lighten weight. It is not as easy to set up and let's a lot more cool air in which can be not great in Minnesota winter. Thanks for the video.
Awesome video man
great video! Super helpful even if it made me cry with heartache missing the trail.
I hit the like button from “snuggle up in a nice warm blanket and grab a cup of tea” love the ambient background music. Much love from Australia ❤️💛🖤
🤘🤘🤘
Thank you Sir.
Good review Allen, enjoyed it.
Go with the nemo flyer, it's a hybrid foam/inflatable so even if it leaks you still have the foam.. plus it's light
Hadn't seen this one before, just checked it out. I guess our definitions of light are slightly different. Nemo's website has it listed at 1lb15oz so pretty much 2 pounds. That's a full pound heavier than the neoair.
Great content. Straight to the point and informative.
Thanks so much for the amazingly helpful video
I will definitely be getting a Frogg Togg poncho
You are so right about about both of the sleep pads 👍 I prefer the therma over the Nemo though I just keep patching 👍. Big Agnus AXL is my next pad .
Great vid very similar to my setup I plan on doin the pct next year I’m short on funds this time
What was the base weight for all this?
I was missing a few pieces of gear in the quality/weight that I wanted. Our opinions are so similar, you’ve convinced me to look into those few extra things I need.
Its good to see an HMG pack near the end of its life. Thanks for that, normalizing fully and completely using good gear.
I still have it too! Good beater crag pack. I try to use my gear as long as possible provided it still functions and can't be fixed.
@@alan_long Awesome to hear
Great video. Well done Alan. Enjoyed so much I had to subscribe.
No fluff, no cute crap.
Content like this? Top of the line.
There are 4 other hiker whose video I follow. Alan is #5
Thanks for the feedback 😊 glad ya liked it!
Really cool video. It's super interesting to see what kind of stuff people bring for these kinds of trips. For me going hiking, although I really respect going minimalist like this, I still need my comforts. At least a pillow and a book. Maybe a few beers too.
Totally understandable. Casual backpacking and long distance hiking are two different ball games. I used my food bag as a pillow almost every night. No need to sacrifice comfort hehe.
@@alan_long Hehe, comfort is king. :) I would like to go for a longer hike (4-5 days) sometime soon. But, for a trips like that, I don't think a little bit of extra junk in the trunk will be a problem.
Super informative and clear
Thank you, Alan 🌲 I really appreciate your gear selection, your video made me want to get outside!
Great to hear!
Nice gear video 👍
Thanks for sharing
Thanks for the overview. As for sleep pads, take a look at the Klymit Static V Insulated Light. I've had others and am really happy with this. Higher R value than most.
Higher because they claim its higher. The tested values show they're pretty terrible.
Great gear video! Thanks so much for this! Currently going over my pack for my upcoming PCT thru hike so cheers for the tips. If anyone fancies following me on my journey starting this April, I’ll be vlogging the entire hike on my channel! Happy trails everyone ☺️🙏🏻🥾
Glad it was helpful! Best luck on the thru, stay safe and be kind 🙏
You lied :(
Nice review! No stove? I use a z rest for the pad. Inflatables just don't work for me.
No stove. Just wanted to eat and go to bed.
Yes - sleep pads are an issue. I've had the best luck with the Sea-to-Summit Ether Light. Most pads are engineered down to a weight and use a cheap and cheerful bonding method for the baffles. The Ether Light uses superior bonding technology and was engineered for comfort and reliability. Compared to the XLite I find it much quieter, much more comfortable and much more reliable. Of course you pay a price in terms of weight - as always with lightweight gear it's a question of trade-offs. For someone like me who's not exactly in the first flush of youth, a good night's sleep is priceless on the trail. So I'm happy to carry the equivalent of a couple of cups of water extra to help ensure that. If you want to win pissing contests over pack weight, by all means go with the XLite...
Thanks for the rec. I'll definitely check them out!
@@alan_long Although I'm a 5' 10' guy, I use the large women's insulated. Bit warmer than the men's. Has a lozenge shape that's great for side-sleepers - for the first time ever I have a pad where my knees don't hang off the edges! If you're a smallish guy you might get away with the women's regular. They have a number of other sizes, shapes and levels of insulation, though they can sometimes be a bit hard to track down.
Excellent valve, that's easy to service in the field. Much the most reliable baffles in the industry (they use a technology from the medical/aerospace field), and very comfortable too. Quality fabric that doesn't seem to pinhole. Innovative attachment for their pillow that really works (game changer for me). Wider than it looks, because the edges don't collapse. Fairly quiet. Reasonable inflation bag.
Interestingly, the manager and most of the staff at my local outfitter have all bought one - with their own money. I've tried most of 'em over the years, and this is much the best I know unless you're a gram weenie that prioritises weight over reliability and comfort.
Props to StoS for rethinking the sleeping pad from the ground up and coming up with something superior.
Wow good job under 8lds and you still have a decent pad, tent and a warm quilt.
let's go bro. i like this moment. this gear so good.
Nice list. Hard to believe you were warm enough. No puffy or long johns. You must be warm blooded!
I do run quite warm haha 😆 the windshirt and windpants are surprisingly warm.
Really enjoyed and informative thanks. Will you publish videos of your PCT thru hike ?
thank you very helpful... how much water did you carry from campo to kennedy meadows... and what food did you pack.. what were the average high and low weight packs.
Nailing it.
Thanks!
From France, a big thanks for the video, reallyyyy good (and i saw "few...")
The toilet kit was certainly a new one to me.
I liked the video. Great info with little to no fluff 👍👣❤️
Glad you liked it!! Thanks for the comment! More stuff in the works :)
This video was awesome!
Thanks :)
Nice kit! That is a great pack. You made awesome choices. Great ultralight setup. New follower here. All the best, Crow✌️
Great video with zero hype. What was your base weight? And no spare clothes other than the socks? Just thinking about when in town and washing clothes or did you do that along the trail? Thanks in advance.
Check the lighterpack link for all the weights! And I washed clothes in hotel bathtubs or had loaner clothes at hostels/trail angels houses. But yes, my clothes got dirty. It's gonna happen 😄
Thanks for posting. I was wondering how durable the HMG windrider mesh is. Now I know. 🍀
No problem 👍
can you please show how you did a shoulder pocket out of leggins , how did you sew it.
great video, took some inspiration, thx :)
I did sew it. Probably won't make a video on that but here's a simple explanation:
-Get a pair of leggings
-At the ankle, cut off the bottom 6ish inches
-sew the "ankle" (front and back) together
-finish the top with elastic or install a cinch cord
-Machine or hand sew that to the pack.
Nice gear setup! Try a super thin pad like a Decathalon Hiking Foam or GG 1/8th under an uberlite or xlite. Your battle is probably against needle sharp points and focused pressure from your body. There is nothing that can be done but create distance between the pad and the ground. Good luck!
Thanks for the idea!
heyy, youtube sent me here because i like watching gear videos. and it turns out to be one of my favorites ever! i really enjoy your editing style and choice of music and i can see you have a great sense of humor by the way you present every item! :)
totally subscribing and checking out your other videos!
Glad you found it helpful! Thanks for the comment :)
Good Info, thanks a lot