My Least Favorite Hiking Gear - After a Year of Testing
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- čas přidán 26. 06. 2024
- After hiking 2,200 miles last year and trying out a bunch of new gear, this is what I liked the least! Some of this backpacking gear is still really amazing! But... maybe it's not the best option out there, maybe it's not the most ultralight, and maybe you should avoid some of these items.
Gear mentioned in this video:
Arc'teryx - tinyurl.com/3hxezjj2
Sun Hoodie - amzn.to/42zrMrS
Pot (650) - tinyurl.com/39ejssrs
Pot (750) - tinyurl.com/hn32nxxp (Get this one)
Pot (1,100) - tinyurl.com/45xzty9e
Shoes - amzn.to/3HNuwsm
Tarp - tinyurl.com/mryympx5
So if that's all my least favorite gear, then what do I actually really love when it comes to hiking and backpacking?
My FAVORITE Thru Hiking Gear:
Tent - tinyurl.com/bdxm9229
Tarp - tinyurl.com/4jtaxvd7
Quilt - tinyurl.com/4fm96rt4
Backpack - tinyurl.com/ykhnu4fh
Pack Liner - tinyurl.com/2p8uvn7w
Shirt - amzn.to/49ukurE
Shoes - amzn.to/3SvcfVD
Rain Jacket - tinyurl.com/bdadk452
Fleece - tinyurl.com/ucd7ypdr
Puffy - tinyurl.com/29966jbw
Socks - amzn.to/3tUDH6U
Bug Head Net - tinyurl.com/2vrwsd26
Smart Watch - amzn.to/3mz7ePp
Stove - tinyurl.com/58r2rys8
Pot - tinyurl.com/hn32nxxp
Battery Bank - tinyurl.com/47x276b3
Flashlight - tinyurl.com/5n6jkrmd
Camera - amzn.to/4axYKgb
Lens - amzn.to/41Xjlqg
So in the end all of this gear is really great, but each thing has a problem with it that's large enough to make me want to avoid it next time.
The yamamountain gear cirriform 2p is just not wide enough and definitely too heavy as a tarp. In most cases instead of carrying the 17.5 ounces which mine weighs I would rather just carry a tent! Comparing to my zpacks tarp which weighs just 5.6oz that's quite the difference, while a fully enclosed tent like the zpacks duplex weighs 20oz! So for just a tiny bit more weight, it seems worth it, to not carry the Cirriform. Add on that for two people it's not wide enough and my decision is made. It would be a great solo shelter, as it's certainly made to withstand some serious storms, I don't think it's good for two people.
Arc'teryx proved to be, unfortunately very underwhelming. All of their gear is twice the price of anything else, and usually a lot heavier than anything else! I wanted to try more gear from them but when it came to comparing their jackets to others on the market I could always find something better... for cheaper. So I don't think I'll be buying from arc'teryx again, unless I am going for style.
The Xero Mesa Trail shoes I was very unhappy with. I think that they are just far too minimal, too barefoot, to be using on a thru hike. With just an 8mm stack height, that's 1/3rd the cushion and protection of a shoe like the Altra Lone Peak. Even compared to other minimal shoes out there, Xero has gone too far. I think these could be great for training, but I will never use them on a thru hike again.
The Outdoor Research Echo Sun Hoodie was functionally really great. Super ultralight, very breathable, and provides a ton of protection from the sun! I just wasn't happy with how it looked on me. I see other people wear it and they look great in it, I just don't think it is for me. So I will be going back to my tried and true Columbia Silver Ridge Lite button up hiking shirt instead. A classic hiking look, I love the button up shirts most.
My cook pots from Toaks were great but maybe the sizes were a little off. I got the Toaks titanium 650ml cook pot when really I probably should have sized up to the 750ml instead. If you're trying to save every ounce and gram, then sure the smaller size worked, but I think most would be happier with the larger version. I also tried the 1,100ml pot by Toaks and would share that with my partner when hiking together, as our only pot. This worked, but again maybe it's better to just have your own food, and your own pot. When you're hungry after a long day hiking, sharing can be frustrating.
00:00 - Least Favorite Gear
00:38 - Arc'teryx
03:49 - OR Sun Hoodie
05:45 - Toaks Cook Pots
08:21 - Xero Mesa Trail Shoes
13:03 - Yama Cirriform Tarp
16:57 - Thank you :)
Hiking Essentials Shirt! jupiterhikes.com/product/hikin...
THE BACKPACKING GEAR I USE:
www.jupiterhikes.com/gear/
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Thank you for watching :) All really amazing gear, but in each case something bothered me enough where it felt worth talking about! Next week maybe we'll do a video about what gear I did actually like 🤔
I know you like Kuiu Peloton 97 Fleece :)
Im interested if you liked using the Thermarest Xlite Pad or if you are back using your GossamerGear Foam Mat again for most hikes .
:)
I'm more interested in the mitts your wearing, what' make are they?
You bringing up Arcteryx reminded me of something, you should watch the video "the darkside of gorpcore". It's about companies in the hiking/outdoor clothing industry, but especially Arcteryx, and it really opened my eyes. You're probably aware of a lot of what's in it, but still might be worth the watch
@@brosfab480I came to ask the same, @jupiterhikes how about the details on the mitts?
I love the Anetik Ultraguide sun hoodie. It's expensive but is the best one I have found.
I love how us hikers are all about long sleeve hooded shirts yet we’re all rocking 5” inseam shorts. Sun be damned hitting our arms but skies out, thighs out. 😂
Am I the only one who only every gets upper body sunburns and never lower body? Even though I wear shorts
Agreed. Your Columbia shirts are your trademark. 🌞
I think this is one of the areas I'll give up looks for that hood....holy crap the fidgeting I used to go through to cover my neck and ears. And I won't give up fashion so much that I buy one of those tie on neck gators that make you look like a desert movie from the 60's. I'm happily married but I don't want to scare the ladies away.
I was at the top of Glen Pass in the sierra last year I think taking a rest when up from the south comes a guy in a pure white button up, long sleeve, with the white HMG pack and black hiking shorts....Looked completely formal and awesome in such a place. I thought he might be bringing me my wine list - only whine I had was that I didn't look as cool as he did. Lets call him Arcterx and I'm Good Will - standing on top of the same pass. who did it better apples to apples. (fyi there were no woman I recall to notice him) pimp ass ride though.
peace Sister
Columbia shirts are amazing!
Silver Ridge all day
What are your go to Colombia shirts? 🙌🏼
You know I really do enjoy your videos. Great production value, honest information, And just all around well presented. Thanks!
I love how niche this is because when you’re in it, every little thing matters to make it that much more of an enjoyable experience! Great job explaining and thanks so much for sharing! :)
Thank you for your vulnerability Tom. Your persona back then was a little difficult for a reclusive teenager to process. Safe to say I’ve grown into a 39 year old who finally gets it. Your honesty is golden and your presentation immaculately raw. Man, I really needed this right now. About to live out of my car with my dog as I try to make something of this life that regret keeps me from settling down. Seeing you just go has motivated me make plans to travel instead of sticking to my home town comfort zone. Got sober 3 months ago, no alcohol, weed, cigs, nothing but coffee and fitness from now on. Great audio setup by the way. I dabbled a little in music production, then 2020 shut me down. You will always be a star to me. I worked with dogs as well, and Charlie is class.
I'm confused, he taught you things over 20 years ago?
his persona was difficult to process?? vulnerability?? what video did you watch man cuz i just watched a gear vid LOL
Appreciate your genuine sharing. That’s really informative and helpful! 😊
Thanks a lot Jupiter for your feedback :) Personally, I love my cook pot Evernew 1,3L for hiking with my Gf, as it is much wider and allow us to eat at the same time, providing we seat next to each other. Then, no one needs to be patient 😁
I've done tons of hiking sharing food with a partner. You just need a little plastic bowl. It can be a nice screwtop plastic grocery store container that you can also use to soak food, it could be an old yogurt container, whatever, but that's lighter than a second pot (and way lighter than two stoves) and lets you split up a meal so you can both eat at once. Also wide-bottom pots are more efficient.
Agree with the expense of Arc’teryx full retail prices; everything I own of theirs I bought on sale which helps some. I really do like their Squamish Wind jacket. Well built and they use heavy enough fabric (30d) that you don’t have to cringe waiting for that ripping sound off trail in brush. I use the Echo Hoody and really like it but also have my full button shirts I hike in as well. Columbia makes a good one for sure. The Sea to Summit collapsible X Mug that you can get in either an 8 oz or 16 oz (my choice)size is a nice option to augment a shared pot. I use one for my morning coffee and to eat oatmeal in the morning. Works great and cleans up easily and stows small in the pack. Nice recap on all the items you mentioned and you were fair about your criticisms.
This guy does good,honest fair reviews. Very informative.
Totally agree on your point about spending two to three times as much on gear that doesn’t provide additional benefit. Personally I am not on the trail to make a fashion statement. My four year old REI $89 puffy has duct tape on three spots but gets the job done. I too like the button collar shirt for on/off trail. I always enjoy your post…pls keep them coming. OBTW I will be wearing your ball cap on the PCT this year…miles make smiles!
Its about that time. I'm here in San Diego happy to help with any logistics for out of towners. Its way too expensive here. My email is on my profile if you have any needs.
Best of luck to you
Greg
Yeah I'll pay for durability, but nobody I want to interact with outdoors is going to be impressed with conspicuous consumption for its own sake.
I have always wondered how certain pieces of backpacking gear become so popular. Many people just like to show off. Expensive labels, lightest weight or this is what everyone is using/wearing. Wake up people, you're not in high school now. Hike your own hike, choose your own gear. Be safe, be comfortable, enjoy your hike.
And oh those spiffy LOGOS
I've watched a lot of your videos. And I just realized that I need to use whatever gear makes me happy
That's it! If people copied my gear list 100% they'd probably not be so stoked when actually using it I am happy with it very much so, but I don't think everybody would be. I still post the gear lists, or the gear videos because I hope that people will take little nuggets out of it for themselves. Oh that looks like it would work for me, or that one thing is a good idea. But yeah, everybody is so different in desires and joys, and no one kit is perfect for everybody!
@@JupiterHikes You've done great on inspiring a lot of people to include myself!
oooooo not so sure I get that perspective from Jupiter....You have to like and be comfortable and moreover confident with your kit, but Take "what ever makes me happy" is a slippery slope. And at altitude I've had the what makes me happy suddenly make me very very sad. So I take less, make sure its good, and always be happy.
I don't always do the lightest but there has to be a bunch of it in the kit before I think about an "extra" thing like a better camera or drone. 23 lbs all in for most of a week is what I shoot for - that would include a bear can, food and water along with a FULL kit. zero stupid light.
and sometimes using preloved gear works well
I want to just say. go on trips, and sometimes the gear chooses you!
Good point with the button down shirt. It really makes a difference on how you appear to others and I don’t feel so comfortable in a hoodie either. Jolly gear it is 😄
Jollygear is awesome! Totally blanked on those while making this video but year, has the class of a button up, but the protection of a sun hoodie. Really cool stuff!
I use the 1100 mL pot when backpacking with people. We only share the pot for boiling water and then I pour into a container of theirs. Saves weight on the extra fuel and stove.
My wife and I use the 1100 pot and the nesting frying pan for the secondary eating dish. Love your vids, see you down the trail!
All good information. I appreciate the very nuanced critique of everything. Cheers!
always look forward to your videos
I personally LOVE xero shoes, but the mesa trail lasted me one and a half seasons with the second season starting off with semi-proken shoes. I do hike about 200 miles in the warmer seasons. The barefoot sole made me feel the outer edge ridges which resulted in a blister. But I do love the feel of no restriction and the terrain under my feet with all the flexibility your foot can muster .
I will add one to the list for me. The BRS stove. I got sick of the stove in cold weather/wind, and bought a Soto Windmaster. HUUUUUUGE upgrade and totally worth a little more weight for functionality/efficiency.
Agree. Ok in summer, no wind, etc., but that’s what I bought first and my son and I were in a wind storm. His water boiled with his Soto and he was about finished with drinking his coffee before my water even boiled…I also wasted precious fuel. Upgraded. Do not mind the weight.
These are all very valid points 😊 thank you for this
Interesting to hear about your Xero experience! I love my Xero shoes, my feet have never felt better than when I switched to minimalist shoes, but as far as hiking goes have only hiked small trails in them. Thank you for listing the Merrell Trail Gloves. I love a minimalist shoe and don't need too much cushion but good to see something thicker that could prevent injury on long hikes. I will check em out, Thanks Jupiter!
I love the merrell trail gloves! Just got a pair of their newest version (the 7 I think) and it feels even better than the last. I dont think they are considered 'true' barefoot shoes but I love them for that middle ground between a more cushioned shoe and something barefoot.
Thanks for your reviews
Funny you should say that about Arcteryx. I actually have an around 15 years old superlight (for the time) GoreTex jacket that I was really happy with. Also the Squamish jacket is pretty good IMO, but in general I find Arcetryx gear overengineered and heavy for most uses. Maybe appropriate for extreme winter conditions and expeditions, but certainly less than ideal for general backpacking and thruhiking. Btw they also made a beanie of super thin wool some years ago that was long enough to cover my ears (not that large) and not slide up but that's gone from their lineup.
On sharing a pot. What I've found is that sharing a stove works fine as long as you only need to boil water for a short time but having two pots or a larger one + a plate is much more convenient than sharing the pot. Personally I like a 1+ liter own even alone. It weighs slightly more, but works much better when you have to melt snow or want/need a little extra hot water.
I did actually get one of their really really thin beanies and liked it! I don't think I got the wool version but its super light. So far I think only a beanie made of Alpha Direct fabric could really dethrone it. They do make great stuff as a whole that is trustworthy, but maybe a bit heavy and a bit expensive.
Thursday, February 08th: Thank-you for this video. Definitely food for thought. Thanks, again. Happy Trails! Ross08
Appreciate for follow up on this stuff. I picked up a pair of the Xero Mesa Trails after first seeing them in your previous video. For anyone who wants a different perspective on those shoes: I’ve never thru-hiked and I probably wouldn’t even try these on a weekend backpacking trip, but I have found that I LOVE them for my day hikes - especially in the snow! I live by a state park in New England and I try to walk 3-4 miles every morning before work no matter the weather. These shoes paired with some Sealskinz socks make it genuinely fun to stomp through a few inches of snow, something about the really rugged tread mixed with the low stack height. I could honestly see myself keeping a pair of these on hand just for snowy days. Pretty limited use case, but I feel strongly enough about it to leave this comment lol
Thank you for the addition! I agree that I think I will like them much much more for day hikes and around town kind of thing. Good to know about the snow as well!
I'm with you on the Arc'teryx pricing. It's insane now, and I don't plan on buying much of it in the future. However...the quality is still a lot better than some of the other brands I buy, and I did recently buy a second long sleeve "technical" jersey on sale at the outlet. I've tried a few others, and none of them quite matched the fit and the long-term durability. As for Columbia Silver Ridge shirts, I have two that go waaaay back, and they are awesome. However, for the Silver Ridge anyway they keep changing the fit and even the material, so for me it's hit or miss now. But hey, I've still got my old ones...
I appreciate the time and effort you put into your thoughtful videos. Have you ever considered a merino wool button up hiking shirt? And if so, do you have any recommendations? Thanks!
I have not as I like my columbia silver ridge lite ones so much. I know Darwin just made like a merino sun shirt thing though and that's kinda where my knowledge ends. The columbia one has been so good to me for so many years I haven't looked further at anything else.
I just bought my first Evernew 750 pasta pot (the lid has drain holes) and it's a sweet piece of gear!
Hi from New Zealand! Totally agree with a lot of your comments. No one really talks about the fact that sun hoodies are not all that flattering really……. And I find mine too hot for hotter humid days. Thanks for your content
You've made me believe a bit more in myself and my gear choices. I balance comfort and light weight, I don't think I'll ever go UL, be it budget, be it what I know, but I like to keep it in-between amd thats fine if it works for me.
Have fun on your trips, your content is great.
Style matters and the button up is timeless. I prefer the desert flap hat style for sun protection.
I'm still using the Mesa Trail after 2 years but I don't use them very often. I'll use them for day hikes or overnight trips with a lighter pack. Yeah the stack height would be low for a thru-hike. I mostly go on overnight trips and use Topo Athletic Runventure 4's with a 20mm stack height these days.
I agree, I like atleast 750 for one person. For 2 people I would go for a 1,5 liter pot. But for a truhike I would go for 2 pots like you said
IMO you pay for what you get and Arcteryx is def one of those brands. went to olympic in washington few weeks ago during heavy snow for a backpacking trip (accident) and my goretex kept me warm and dry the whole time. i only had a single layer on as well, and I was amazed of its comfort, durability, and how well it handled throughout my backpacking trip. My other snow and rain jackets wouldn’t always keep me warm at a simple snowboarding trip, but my goretex definitely did.
Funny you mention the toaks pot. I had the 750ml and actually returned it and got the soto thermostack. Thermostack has been amazing
My experience with the Xero Mesa Trail was almost identical to yours. The fit is fantastic, and I love the way they feel. Unfortunately the rocky trails just beat up my feet as there’s just no padding or protection from rocks and roots.
That's a 20d tarp. I use a 15d one from flamescreed. Larger and same weight. 3x3m, super cheap, and so far very durable. I also love the colors available, and I went with the tactical looking coyote brown.
My first backpack was an ArcTeryx 50L. It cost about $460 cad in 2005! And it weighed 6Lb ! I learned and later took off all the clips and webbing and pockets and got it down to 4Lb! without it falling apart. Then I sold it and bought a 2Lb pack. Both were nylon bags with arm straps on them. No big difference.
After a while of just looking at clothing tags for material, polyester is polyester is polyester. Name doesn't matter it's still polyester. My favorite polyester shorts are from a discount shop for $16. They've lasted 5 years so far, no issues. Last year I bought some fancy $80 shorts from Kathmandu. They're too hot and clammy, don't have mesh pockets and faded almost to white from dark grey after one week of hiking. They still stink like polyester does. The name on them or "treatment" didn't make a difference.
Now I'm considering a pair of Tencel Lyocell or Merino shorts, cause I don't like to stink. I'll be wearing those on the PCT. Unfortunately they look like jogging-pant shorts (Beneath and Icebreaker). Others claiming to have merino wool shorts mix their wool with cotton or polyester and is such a small percentage it doesn't' make a difference. Icebreaker's hiking shorts, the flat front chino style, only come in very light beige so easily gets dirty and looks disgusting and are half cotton half merino - $230 cad !. Their true 100% merino shorts look like gym shorts and cost $100 so easily snagged and torn, soaks up water, does not dry, and will get smeared in grime easily. Wooly shorts are gym shorts and not available here (Seattle). Devold shorts would be good but not available here (Norway). Smartwool shorts are not wool (don't use liners). Wool & Prince would work but cost $200 usd and aren't available here (Portland). Everything else is polyester: North Face, Arcteryx, Patagonia, Kathmandu, Smartwool, MEC / REI, Black Diamond, Mountain Hardwear, Outdoor Research.
I'm considering buying some old man second hand wool dress pants and cutting them off into shorts. or just using cotton out of frustration but i know how that sucks when you're wet.
The issue is one drop of sweat or accidental drip of pee and you smell like an outhouse in that material. I can't stand it.
I agree you look better in button downs. Do they make those in wool? I'll keep to my wool tshirts till they do. The closest thing I've seen is Icebreaker's polo but I hate polo shirts.
I got Xero Magna "boots" and I feel the same. For long days I'm still reaching for my Merrell Trail Gloves (1-4s, I bought spares !). Dramatically more minimal than foam-block Altra LPs, but just enough sole to not feel every sharp rock (unlike the Xero). The 4s are the sweet spot for me. 1-3 wore out quickly. 4 got a little heavier and a bit stiffer in the sole, but way more durable and protective enough for successive long days. 5 is still okay but the stiffness and weight kept climbing with no benefit.
The Yama Mountain Gear DCF Cirriform Min (with guylines) comes in on my scale at 10.4oz. Pair that with a bug bivy at around 8oz and you have an extremely stormworthy, modular, and comfortable 1-person shelter system at just over a pound. The 2P in silpoly does seem a bit heavy, but Gen's craftsmanship cannot be denied.
Unfortunately I don't think they are making them in DCF anymore! I hope they do continue to do so though. And very much agree, it is a beautiful design
@@JupiterHikes Yes they still make the 1P in DCF. Their planning on their website states that they start building more regular length DCF ones on march 1ts. :)
The lid (small "pan") of the 1100ml pot can be used as a plate for your hiking partner ;) it's kinda small so you just refill a time or 2 while eating in the main pot
Works really great do that all the time with my differents hiking partners
Bigger pot is usually very good idea. Weight gain from bigger titanium pot is almost nothing, that's how volume to surface works. Only thing it will take is space, but you can always figure out way to use space inside the pot if you want.
Big fan of toaks 900ml with those longer handles, it's shorter and wider, thus easier to clean and cook in. And those longer handles make it bit better to handle with flame. Before that I had MSR 850ml which I was also happy with, but those handles, + the toaks bag that works as cozy is why I switched. While small cup/pot seems pretty cool, it's not that versatile and you are being limited quite a bit. Might work for some super ultralight person or specific meal routine, but it's just restrictive and harder to deal with. It's pretty good size for both solo and with partner.
I love this model of Xero shoe too. Great fit. I haven’t thru hiked with them but have about 500miles on a pair. They’re holding up well. As for the safety and comfort of it, like most “barefoot” shoes I think of you aren’t a full time forefoot striker and don’t keep an eye on foot placement you could run into trouble. Personally, my feet feel better at the end of the day and recover more quickly with them than any other shoes I’ve worn… but I went ffs a few years ago. I hate to say it because I’m a huge fan and they’re a local (to me) Colorado business, but quality control is something they’ve struggled with on several models. But when they work, they work great so I keep giving them my money for a variety of footwear.
I hope to try them again! I really do. Maybe a pair of prios for my normal daily life, or another mesa trail for training hikes or shorter hikes
@@JupiterHikes prios (white) are my daily wear. Awesome comfort and I use the elastic bumpy “speed laces” or whatever so they’re quick to slip on & off. On the quality and alternative materials front I spent a 2 hour flight with my feet out of them but sitting on top of them, basically squishing/flattening the whole time. I noticed a day or two later that the shoe material had cracked just above the sole most of the way around. Was pissed at first and was going to contact customer service but never did and am still wearing them a year later. I notice the crack but no one else does and they aren’t falling apart or anything. When they went on sale I bought another pair to use whenever these die. I think sometimes they update/change materials on different runs too so newer ones may not be susceptible to squish cracks.
I'm a full time barefoot shoe wearer, and I feel like I've heard a lot of others say Xero has quality issues. Can't vouch personally, my feet were too wide for Xero even starting my barefoot journey. I will say though that part of the feeling unsafe might be because you have to be much more aware of where you're placing your feet and in using your feet to balance. I'm looking at the BeLenka TrailWalker for myself
Maybe cook meals for 2 with the Toaks 1,100 ml pot, but bring a super light weight bowl/large cup so you both can chow down at the same time?
I found little butter bowls great for exactly that
Thank you 🙌
And again amazing Video!!
The Toaks 750 ml fits ether a 110 ml gas cylinder or a 1 l Nalgene bottle. :)
Oh man, I would never go back to my button shirts. I don't know what it is, but to me they are just so uncomfortable compared to a sun hoodie. Luckily, I prefer how I look in the hoodies anyway, so they're great for me. Plus, the thin hood that can go under a hat I find really useful. The sun hoodie is literally my favorite piece of hiking clothing, bar none (and perfect for summer or vacation too).
Very informative. I think it’s about time we had another shoe review video. Would be interesting to see you try out Topos and give your thoughts on the latest lone peaks you seem to be using. I know you don’t want to be a gear review guy, but you have great insights. Especially curious about your experience with hiking sandals and if you’ll try other brands besides the Cairns (Lunas, shammas are good).
I've tried the Xero Sandals and very much prefer the bedrocks over them. I like the bedrocks so much I honestly don't see a need to try anything else further! My friend does like the Luna ones though
As for the lone peaks, I am mostly wearing the 6s which considering they are now on the 8.... I don't know if I'll catch up! Maybe by the end of this year though, but again at that point any review might be moot
Sharing a pot? You are hardcore Jupiter! 😂 I couldn’t that. I need my caffeine delivery device at the ready.
What about sharing a toothbrush?😁
@@Felix_The_SlowJogger no way 😂
Interesting points. I think with gear ... there's always some room to improve. I'll agree with the Arcteryx points ... it's just really expensive gear and very heavy for backpacking. Though, I do have their Photon jacket I got on clearance - that I use almost every trip. I've tried sharing a pot and it really does push your patience level - especially if you're tired and just want to crash. But for solo trips - my 650 has been great but probably for the last year I take my larger Windburner setup because I can do my water for the meal & hot chocolate in one go (or if someone goes with me ... we can boil enough water for 2 meals) plus it's been great for when I'm camping up on ridges or in very windy situations. My personal least favorite was the Lightheart Gear Rain Jacket ... did fine for a year but now it leaves me soaked after 10 minutes of a steady rain. It's all honestly subjective - which is why it's so fun to see others opinions on what worked or didn't. Thank you for another fantastic video!
Very subjective for sure! I really tried to highlight the good of everything, alongside what I didn't necessarily like, for that reason. I haven't tried the LHG rain jacket, but have a friend who really likes them. Ultralight rain jackets are so hard to make though, to achieve such light weights I don't think many can be expected to last super long. Lighter fabrics, less layers, or coatings used. A heavier rain jacket has that advantage of longevity for those who live and hike in wetter climates and could be preferred despite the weight. I'll still choose UL rain coats most of the time as and cherry pick dryer seasons and times of years for my hikes, or of course hike in dryer places as a whole. Not always possible, hence last year I got a robust heavy 3L rain jacket which I used for about 1,000 miles.
@@JupiterHikes seems like I remember you getting the Torrentshell. I picked that up along with the Highline jacket by Black Diamond. Plus, I started using an umbrella at the end of last year - which it's fantastic but you can't hold an umbrella and set up your tent. I honestly prefer hiking in the rain - it has it's own aesthetic which I enjoy. Plus, I'm in the Southeast US which is notoriously humid and wet. Happy trails!
I love my Arc'teryx UL wool beanie for backpacking. It weighs less than 1 oz and fits well under a hat or hood for that extra layer of protection. Never leave without it on trips that I know I will encounter cooler weather.
That is actually the one item I have liked from them for backpacking! It's been great, super small and perfect. I did however just get an Alpha Direct beanie and that might be even lighter, still can't go wrong either way
@@JupiterHikes Yeah. I think they designed it to go under mountaneering helmets, so it is perfect for UL backpacking!
What camera do you use? It records beautifully
I personally use vivobarefoot decon lows and they are still holding up well after around 200 miles and they still feel solid to last for a few hundred more miles. So if you are interested in getting more minimal with shoe choice i would recommend checking out other brands as well.
I've always wanted to try vivos!
I use the 550 ml however I rarely ever cook food in it. I just boil water and dump it in a freezer bag to cook.
With the Arcterix you get what you pay. I have some base layers from this brand, and their Atom LT hooded jacket, they are amazing! Especially the Atom LT, lightweight, with amazing insulating properties for its weight. I would not trade this one with anything else !
Good to know! I just ordered one of these jackets.
Good review. For a button up long sleeve I actually prefer, yes, Big 5’s, Pacific Trail brand to Columbia or any other button shirt or even sun hoodie I’ve come across. They are extremely lightweight, breathable and so far durable. I live in the Sierra and our backcountry in the summer months is getting hotter and hotter. So far, this is the only long sleeved sun protection I can stand. All sun hoodies I have tried are tooooooo hot.
which brand/type of shirt is that exactly? couldn't find it when searching...
50% of this is just you criticizing (idk if i spelled that right at all) your own choices on how to use your gear or what specific variation you bought, but i think thats even more interesting since i often find it more difficult to decide which variants of gear i want to buy than what product. So thanks for this great vid haha! U r a lot more experienced as a hiker than i am, but you always Hit the spot for me in terms of content topic choice :D
Maybe that's the point ;) there is no such thing as bad gear.... well maybe not. All the stuff in this vid is good, it's just how you plan to use it or look at it.
HAving used mesa trail a lot the last years, i tend to agree - i love them for everyday use, long dayhikes, and shorter hikes - but longer hikes i go for something more substantial - durability wise my experience is very different thoug - i get some 2000+ km (1300+ miles) out of them
If it's too minimal for our old mate Jupiter, it's probably too minimal for almost everyone. Thanks for sharing your findings on all of these products.
Though, having said that, my preferred pot size for solo is 550ml.
Evernew makes a 1.3 pot that is wide and low, making it great for sharing.
Were your Xero mesa trail shoes the first version or the second one?
Hi, I know that my response here on CZcams is 3-4 months late but here is my question. You mentioned the Cirriform tarp from Yama Mountain Gear. Several years ago I purchased the Flames Creed/Aricxi 20D ultralight single person tarp. I wondered if it could replace the Cirriform tarp? I’d send a picture of it but CZcams won’t let me do that.
The sharing the pot thing is so real. I love my boyfriend very much but at the end of a long hiking day when we decide to share a pot, well I love him a little less because I'm HUNGRY 😂
A good, respectful discussion on gear and how it relates to a specific activity. I also like button up shirts for their versatility. Easy to ventilate or button up and get warmer. What brand are the mittens? Look like hunter's
I think they are Dakine Fillmore mitts!
@@JupiterHikes tnx
Curious to know what jacket you're wearing during the video. Also looking forward to the next possible video you mentioned. Thanks
I got it at a thrift store, but I think it's an old discontinued wind breaker made by vissla
I also have seen reliability issues with my Xero shoes. I tried the Terra flex and destroyed them on my Superior trail thru hike. I tried the Aqua X on my Sheltowee thru hike and those were way worse went about 100 miles and had to swap out. I also tried the Mesa trail on my Ouachita trail thru hike and were the best so for but still had durability issues and insole would slide towards my heel causing issues. I agree with you on how well they fit and have not found any shoe like it. So I think I will try there new shoe the Scrabbler on my next thru hike. It has Michelin soles so may fix alot of the durability issues that have plaque their shoes. If it doesn't I'm going back to Vivobarefoot.
You've been using xero for a while it seems, did they used to be cheaper? I feel like when I first started looking at them in 2019 they were significantly cheaper, and now are just the same price as any other shoe. Maybe not, or maybe I only ever happened to see them on sale.
You're definitely right about Arc'teryx, hiking is much more fun in the old battered garments that have loads of miles on, rather than the brand new most expensive logo you're able to show off
Where arcteryx shines in my experience is their DWR treatment. It just never seems to fade. But fit is not great for me and their brand is just trending now. Patagonia is a better eco co anyway. Plus your GGG hosted brands.
I love minimalist shoes. But can't wear Xeros hiking. I feel like they're just shaped and supported wrong for how thin the sole is (or the shape of my foot) . Have you tried vibrobarefoot? I feel more stable, more connected to the ground, and have much less foot pain with them.
Not wanting to argue bc ofc thats up to your preference, BUT i think u look great in your Sun Hoodie :D
If you have fat on your stomach a hoodie will expose it and highlight your gut, depending how conscious you feel about it you might not like walking around like that.
But the other advantage for a shirt for me is that it's already open and i can unbutton it, im a very aggressive hiker and weigh 220lbs so i produce a lot of heat on the upper body. So i have more air allowing through my shirt and can further open it. I also don't like how a hoodie pulls on you with the backpack, especially when wet.
I have real barefoot shoes with even less cushion, i only wear them occasionally when i hike 30-60 Minutes and i don't have to go though gravel with rocks in all sizes. I feel every rock and on big ones i could injure myself.
Cushioning and shoes are a great advantage and a form of doping.
you gave reasons to buy and not to buy everything / thoughts on the pots, maybe take the 1100 on every trip and get/bring a ~550ml bowl for when ur 2P camping?
wouldn't be lightest weight but would be cheapest upgrade (rather than buying 2 new pots)
thats a bummer to hear about the 2p cirriform. I love my 1p for all the reasons you listed before getting into your issues. The DCF one is great too, because I prefer the way DCF deals with rain. Love Yama gear!
just remembering they no longer carry dcf. i got one on the last run they were doing, buying when I didn't have enough money due to FOMO lol
It really is cool! And maybe sometime I'll try the 1p. Would be really sweet if they continued making the DCF versions as well
Florida Boy sitting in the snow. Are you here in Switzerland?
Xero has terrible quality control. I bought some Xero Prio Suede shoes for wearing around town, and the stitching along the patch of Suede at the toes started separating on both shoes within a week.
Youre my go to guy for gear reviews cause i know youre really testing things and doing your research. Thays why you had a rovyvon instead of a headlamp. Only a well researched person knew about that rovyvon
Sorry another comment. I've been looking into tarp and bivy setups lately and the Cirriform looks awesome but kind of came to the same conclusion with the weight. Might as well get a tent. I ended up ordering a Borah silpoly 7x9 tarp and bivy to try out. We'll see how it goes.
7x9 is what I've been using for many years and it's a pretty great size. Hope you like the setup! The modularity of a bivy is nice for those times it's needed, then the weight savings of when you don't and can leave it at home!
@@JupiterHikes Awesome thanks for the reply. I'm a small dude so hoping the coverage is adequate. I wanted to try a flat tarp to play with some different configurations.
It seems nice have a more modular setup. Maybe take the bivy and a bag liner when I don't need the warm 20 deg quilt. Or try cowboy camping when it's not buggy. Looking forward finding out if I can handle it 😅
Good video it's right on.
I Never had a better rainjacket than the arcteryx beta ar . Tried Montbell versalite, zpacks vertice, ee visp, black Diamond stormline…many many more . All failed me but the arc Beta AR is amazing . Heavier , yes but I don’t go UL for my sleeping Pad or my Rainjacket anymore . :) guess everyone must figure out what works for him . 😊
It is twice the weight of those others you mentioned so in a different league. But I agree, the heavier rain jackets will very much so out perform the UL when it comes to long term durability or an all day heavy rain. I guess the idea of the lighter ones is for many seasons or trails (like the PCT,) those super light ones are totally fine. Something like the Appalachian Trail by contrast, and I can see the heavier class of jackets getting a lot more use. Wetter climates vs dry. Wetter seasons vs dry. Picking and choosing based on the conditions expected!
@@JupiterHikes yea , i hike mainly i Scandinavia and Iceland . Its alot Rain here . I really tried to be full UL on all my Gear but my Uberlite from Thermarest popped in Iceland even with my 1/8inch foam mat underneath it and the Mat was too cold and uncomfortable to sleep on . Since then i use a S2S etherlight. Heavier Pad i think 3x the weight of an Uberlite but i get so much good sleep. Same with the Rainjacket(s) . I have spend so much on importing Visp ans Vertice and hoped they would work for me but they all wetted out on me quickly, its just to delicate for me too handle them. So yea the Beta AR is double the weight of a Visp for example but i finally have a jacket that keeps me dry and warm . Otherwise i agree with you the prices are out of this World from Arcteryx but also from other major Brands. But for me everything is expensive. I imported a Alpha Cruiser from Farpointe, similiar to Senchi and it cost me 80usd plus 45 shipping plus another 30 on import. So for my UGQ quilt...God knows how much ive spend on american Garage grown Companies and for my packs and quilts and tents i do it again. But sadly not for these UL rainjackets 🥹 i wish they would have worked for me where i usually hike . Worst Thing is something in your backpack that gets you a constant feeling of "i hope the Pad wont Pop this night / i hope i will stay dry ..."
Keep up the good Content and many Greetings from Norway ❤️
Pockets on shirts are essential for life.
Xero shoes as a brand seems to have a vendetta against padding. They size their shoes well and I find them extremely pleasant to wear. The whole idea is solid , but it’s just so little material that it’s hard to see them holding up when it really counts.
Trying a sun hoodie this summer but I do love my button down. I’m hoping to drop my wide brim hat with the sun hoodie
I hope you enjoy it! Which one did you wind up getting?
@@JupiterHikes The Evolve. Got it for Christmas.
I would love more videos about footwear minimalist shoes are so life changning
THANK you for calling out the elephant in the room (tent?) - Arc'teryx.
It's good stuff and anyone would be very happy with their gear, but I just hope with what I said people will also look around too, as I bet they can save some money and weight by doing so!
Columbia button up shirts: Yup! I prefer white.
My wife and I use a 650ml and 550ml. We boil water in the 650ml and then split the food into 2 pots. It's worth it to have 2 pots for 2 people.
I'll be carrying both my button up shirt and my sun hoodie on the AZT
Jup posts, I click. Simple.
Xero has an awesome business model going on where they sell you almost nothing for a lot of money.
Arcteryx make very good wet and windy weather clothes, if they're fashionable now thats annoying. I think they're technically great and will last and requires less care. I'm no ul though so i guess its different priority's for you they were probably the wrong choice. Deciding on a pot is a nightmare haa nice vid
Just leaving a comment to help your CZcams monetization. Keep on!
17 ain’t bad for a 2p tarp. However if it’s a little small for 2p that’s not great.
I think my Ray way 2p is around 17 oz you could get 3 p in that thing. You have to make it yourself tho.
Can confirm, Xero shoes are garbage quality. Every pair I’ve own had huge issues quickly. The tongue on my mesa trails fell off from sitting in my car. (I bought them on a Black Friday sale and was waiting for spring/summer to hike in them. When I pulled them out, the tongue fell off.) A different model of theirs couldn’t keep the sole insert in place from day 1 and yet another model complete fell apart with about 1 month of casual walking at school. (Unrelated but, for anyone with hip labral tears, I have found minimal shoes exacerbate the issue and recommend some cushion for that lack of good cartilage.)
Any favorite button-up shirts? Agree on disliking sunhoodies. Columbia stuff too large on me. I have an LL Bean cresta trail shirt i've been using but it's on the thicker/heavier side.
Columbia Silver Ridge Lite is my button up of choice, having used them for so many years and thousands of miles. So if you don't like the stuff they make then this may not work for you, still I really enjoy them. Other than that and I pretty much just look for thrift store stuff.
love my 750ml toaks. never,would i trust a tarp. dcf tents are much safer for minimal higher weight
I'm too fat for sun hoodies. Love my button up shirts. I agree some people look awesome in a sun hoodie
I use the 550 toaks and its fine for me 🤷🏻♂️ gear is subjective though
Sharing a pot between two people is one of the most insane UL things i have ever heard lol