Gear I Should've Bought Sooner: Best Gear of the Year
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- čas přidán 28. 06. 2024
- This is my list of standout gear of the year. A lot of this list is made up of gear that I tried out for the first time this year that made a big difference for me in my backpacking experience.
Gear in this video:
Zenbivy Lightbed: bit.ly/3HNQsEj
Big Agnes Copper Spur (mtn glo out of stock): bit.ly/3XWCrdi
Jetboil Minimo: bit.ly/3pvrWxL
Jetboil skillet: bit.ly/3Au14ow
Lifestraw Peak Squeeze: bit.ly/3EdMenS
Grand Trunk 360 stool: bit.ly/3WPzOZq
Sea to Summit e-vent compression sack: bit.ly/3DxejG2
Matador Flatpack: bit.ly/3jmCP5M
Hillsound PackStack Pro: bit.ly/3YayZeB
Appalachian Gear Company All-paca Fleece: bit.ly/3XR1E92
Fjallraven Keb Agile Trouser
Gear I have tested and recommend:
Backpacks and Hiking Gear:
Mystery Ranch Terraframe 65L
Komperdell Explorer Contour trekking poles
Tents and Camping Gear:
Big Agnes Copper Spur bit.ly/3XWSpn4
Durston X Mid trekking pole tent durstongear.com/product/x-mid-1p
Sea to Summit Ascent AcII Sleeping Bag: 15F Down bit.ly/3JTea1h
Zenbivy 25 Degree Lightbed zenbivy.com/products/zenbivy-...
Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated Sleeping Pad bit.ly/3DbbCcO
Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow bit.ly/34n4749
Clothing:
Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket bit.ly/3iwmivF
Big Agnes Zetto Ultralight Down Jacket www.bigagnes.com/products/zet...
Arc-teryx Beta Rain Jacket
Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie bit.ly/3XR4WZm
Fjallraven Keb Agile Trouser
Coalatree Trailhead Pants coalatree.com/products/trailh...
AKU Selvatica Mid GTX Hiking Boots bit.ly/3eSMmvy
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Sock bit.ly/3qLVyaI
Hestra Bike Ergo Grip Tactility Glove amzn.to/3GWeADc
Camp Kitchen:
MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove bit.ly/34mBc06
Sea to Summit Alpha Pot - 1.9 Liters bit.ly/3tdCZ23
Sea to Summit Watercell X bit.ly/3wv3ost
Platypus Big Zip EVO Reservoir Water Bladder bit.ly/3t2SrxF
Grayl Geopress Water Purifier bit.ly/3DbOCun
Lifestraw Peak Squeeze Water filter straw bit.ly/3Bjk88U
Pinnacle Foods Freeze dried food pinnaclefoods.co/
Vosteed Nightshade Folding Knife amzn.to/3J7XOnn
Matador 8L Flatpack matadorup.com/products/flatpa...
Trail Gear:
Ledlenser Neo 5R Headlamp amzn.to/3Jd8Pnu
Vargo Titanium Dig Dig Tool bit.ly/3UGgFYO
Zoleo Satellite Communicator amzn.to/3WBDRIK
Special thanks to my Global Partners for supporting my mission of inspiring and educating people to get on the trail and enjoy the benefits of sustainable outdoor adventure.
Wiley X: www.wileyx.com/
Mystery Ranch: www.mysteryranch.com/
Cotopaxi: www.cotopaxi.com/
BeanVivo: beanvivo.com/
NOTE: These are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you, but it's a great way to show your support. Thanks!
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Heliconia Productions: www.heliconia.ca/
info@heliconia.ca
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Blog: in4adventure.com/ - Sport
I own the 10, 25 and 40 degree Zenbivy. The 25 is perfect in the PNW with proper layering when needed. Get it!
Can't find 40 degree option on their website. Is that thing of the past?
Eric, Thanks for the gear reviews. You are continuing to allow us to see gear without purchasing it. This is a great service to the hiking community. That being said, please keep up the awesome hiking adventure videos!!!
I appreciate that! And don’t worry, lots of adventures videos ahead too!
Woohoo, happy to see you grabbed a Minimo and Summit Skillet! I have both and absolutely love them. And speaking of Matador, I have their flatpack soap case and it has been awesome. Throw your wet bar of soap in it and the moisture makes its way out through the fabric slowly drying on the inside without getting things wet on the outside. Doubles as an air freshener for your pack too!
This review saved me from making a purchase mistake. I didn't even think of the option of a trekking pole awning in a backpacking tent, but now that I see it, that seems like the only way to go for comfort on a rainy trip. Especially for two people. Much appreciated.
Thanks man!! Just bought the swivel chair to try. Really appreciate your reviews/recommendations from you and Becker. I have bought most of my gear based on your reviews. Keep em coming!!
haha, thanks! I appreciate it! Enjoy that swivel stool!
Love the videos as always.
I’ve fallin in love w/ Zpacks zip around quilts. Stupid light, stupid warm & expensive but I’m worth it 😂
Dream gear! I've used a set of Sea to Summit Event bags for a couple of years, which have worked great in serious UK rain. I use synthetic sleeping bags and so heavy compression is a must. Will need to keep saving for the Big Agnes Copper Spur, though: looks amazing!
Great evals, Eric.
The filter syringe is important to carry to flush out wounds, also.
Thanks to you and Dan i’ve been able to cut my gear research time to actually get outdoors sooner! Thank you brother 🤗
at your service! haha
Brilliant video! Really enjoyed your insights into your gear 🤙
Bought the ZenBivy 40 degree quilt 2 years ago. Absolutly perfect for summer backpacking. Took it on 4 pass loop (CO) in Sept. It handled 35 degree night time low pretty easy. I am a warm sleeper and wore my wool base layer for extra warmth. Highly recommend this system for better sleep.
Nice! Always great when a bag actually keeps you comfortable around the temp rating.
Thanks so much for the honesty and sharing this. Real feelings and real struggles. Sounds like you should definitely experiment a little with footwear and good inserts. Looking forward to seeing future videos!
I have a 3p copper spur bike tent- I love the string lights in it. It lights up the inside perfectly!
Liked the video and suggestions on items. Btw the later pronunciations of Fjällräven var perfect! 👍🏼🇸🇪
The Hillsound was my favorite I love keeping my things organized and I was looking for something that was pack friendly Thanks ^^ great video.
Good video. I feel you have a good system of light weight efficiency mixed with comfort that makes the experience worth while
Thanks! I’m definitely not the ultra light minimalist type of backpacker!
This is probably nothing revolutionary or surprising, but my favorite gear from 2022 have been:
The X-Mid 2P Tent! I was one of the lucky ones to nab one and it is spectacular!
The Thermarest Neoair Xtherm Max sleeping pad. R value is 6.7 and it is so warm. Plus this pad is rectangular and does not taper, which I prefer.
Decathalon Trek 100 down puffy jacket.
Great gear choices, the X-mid is available now
Always great info. I have yet to see the Zenbivy system packed up. It looks like a ton of gear to pack up for a hike. As for tent, I like BA products especially the sleep pads but the X-Mid 2 is still my go to tent. I realize vloggers have to promote sponsors.
I can not afford to backpack with you . I do like the quilt , and im glad I'm not the only one that carries a skillet.
The big Agnes copper spur is the bomb ! Best tent ever. Ultra lightweight and very roomy.
I’ve never seen your page but I have to give it up to you for your advice.. I can’t live without the life straw pouch! I’ve tried all sorts and it’s king. The cedar summit compression pouch is also something I can’t live without.. so now, I’m actually tempted to try that sleeping sac nest you spoke about first.. thanks for the advice!
I like a frameless light pack that I can use as a stuff sack that I can use to when I have found a basecamp. Its so nice to set up a camp an then have a smaller lighter pack to run errands with.
nice review, hope more review like this, respect
Dude I love your videos! Thank you!
absolutely! and thanks!
Pack weight is so low compared to 20 years ago. I think a camp chair is totally worth it. It definitely upgrades my backpacking experience.
I appreciate your video! I personally like to use a blend of “good” brand stuff with off brand stuff. For example I got a Teton pack, an entry level REI backpacking tent that is likely to perform better than an Ozark trail $30 tent. For my sleeping bag, pad and pillow I am likely to err generic brands but inflatable because the thing is I’m not exactly camping in the Northern Rockies any time soon, it’s warm, and I do want to have money for more important nice camping gear. I am not doing a long thru hike, so there is no need for ultra light and I can afford the heavier gear. I have not chosen a stove yet, and I have yet to go on my first trip as I’ve been slowly getting gear. One thing I don’t skimp on are shoes… I got the Hoka speedgoat 5. But yeah I definitely need to make some compromises because… heh… I am not wealthy!
You’re the only review channel who has said good things about the LifeStraw filter, interesting.
I don't understand why people don't seem to like it.
I have the 25 degree zenbivy core bed that I used at Hutchs Pool Sabino Canyon on a very warm night. It was great.
On the LifeStraw filter you can actually attach the filter to the outside of the bag. It also fits a standard water bottle.
I love my skillet!!!! I will take the added weight to enjoy and overall better experience for my tummy :)
A black water filtration bag? That’ll be nice for a hot cup of tea in the summer months.
thanks for the review...
Awesome thanks!
welcome!
I’ve been eyeing that gorgeous Appalachian Gear Co. All-Paca fleece hoodie in every video that you wear it in, and I finally just got one for my hubby for his birthday! Now that I saw your size-down tip, I’m super worried that it’ll be too big, because they really do sell out fast so I might not be able to exchange it. I’ve got my fingers crossed! Thank you so much for your recommendations, they really are helpful.
I'm glad you find my videos helpful. I hope that All-paca sweater works well for your husband!
Me and my wife love keb trousers. In summer the midsommer pants are really nice, breathable, lightweight and tough
From a gals perspective, my favorite is the Kula Cloth. I also LOVE my Copper Spur tent. 2 years now in multiple conditions.
I use the skillet all the time. Eating delicious food on backpacking trips is amazing. I also bring eggs and make omelettes on my trips
If you’re a side sleeper like me….you aren’t wasting much when you use a sleeping bag.I tried a quilt and it didn’t really work for me…..I move around a bit and the quilt would too…sometimes exposing body parts that would get cold and wake me up. But, I’m sure it’s nice for people who want to take their bedroom into the wilderness …. Cheers!
ha..I got home from work and put on my alpaca gear hoodie before I sat down and watched this vid!
I use the 360
Very stiff to get it together
Excellent for my painting watercolor, I can change direction easily
I have a Appalachian Gear Co beanie. When I got it, I thought, “this can’t possibly keep me warm”. It’s so light weight and thin.
Now that I’ve been using it for 2 years, I would love to get a hoody. The only problem is .. They sell out so quickly, It’s been hard to find a color I like when I have the funds to spend on one. if I’m going to spend that much, it won’t be for some random color that happens to be available.
Granite gear Crown 3 backpack..... absolutely love it
That’s one I want to try!
Great information
thanks!
Fjällräven pants seems to be real popular in the states these days. They're EVERYWHERE here in scandinavia(obviously). I switched to stretchy climbing pants for hiking myself.
I use either the Rab Torque or Marmot limantour.
Fjällräven is some of the BEST gear made. They make the best hiking pants period! :)
I'm a big fan!
Compression bag was one of the things I have ditched this summer. I have found that having your sleeping bag uncompressed makes it easier to pack your bag without anything hard pushing against your back. The few saved grams were just a nice bonus
That makes a lot of sense to me. Depends on your packing style. But I've enjoyed the compression sacks first and foremost to save space in my pack.
Isn’t your bag massive then?
Eric, it's gotta be the new x therm, the zenbivvy and a xmid for me next!!! By the end of Feb, I'm ready to pull the trigger!
And a thermarest trekker chair... I have a camp chair but wouldn't mind being able to sit up in the tent.
Also I have about 6 of those sea to summit bags, they're the best out there.
Right on! I think you’ll love em!
Thank you, Eric
I found you through watching Dan…
I am doing my first 5 night camping trip this weekend in NC with a small group.
One person is letting me borrow a tent. But if I do get into this would you suggest I purchase the Big Anges Copper Spur or you have another suggestion? For I can always watch for items to go on sale.
I purchased the exact JetBoil and thought about the skillet. But I was given a stainless steel cook set from Ever New that was used by my husband years ago. 🤷♀️
I have the sea to summit compression bag and summit dry bags.
I truly appreciate all the information that you guys share with us so, I don’t have to spend countless hours on research..
Enjoy your journey in life and keep spreading your sunshine…
Oh man I could never haul such a heavy cooking system. 🍳 for me a 750ml titanium and one of those mini gas burners and a titanium sheet roll for wind block. But the skillet must be nice at camp
Zen Bivy is very comfortable. It is so nice I am afraid to take it out of the house and get it dirty.
Since you have one, I am surprised you didn't mention Sony mirrorless cameras as a superior backing choice.
He Eric
I'm wondering if you can tell some more about how to load your electronic gear in a wise way with a powerbank and what capacity you need if you go for a walking adventure for more than a week (for example without the opportunity to reload your powerbank)? Can you also tell something about your opinion on solar powerbanks?
Hope to see your reaction.
I am a fellow appalchian gear co. hoody wearer! Its the most amazing piece of gear i have ever wanted, and never knew of!
woop woop! If you know, you know!
Cottage company gear is the way to go
Does that Alpaca hoodie pill at all after some time with a pack on. I ask because most Merino wool products I’ve used tend to do that. I’d love to get something with those characteristics that doesn’t pill. Thanks!
I will say that when you order one, order it a size smaller than what you are, and once broken in, it stretches and finds that nice comfortable fit! It doesn't seem to pill at all, even after heavy use! I think that has to do with the fact that it's an antimicrobial fiber, so no need to wash it very often!
@@BackpackingTV what's your height? If it S size I think is too big for me.
LOVE MY ZENBIVY!!!! But don’t have a Lightbed yet!
If you’re gonna have Dan you have to have Kyle for balance😂
you almost got it right the second time (i speak swedish) you are better at saying it than any other english speaking person i heard saying it
woohoo! I'm putting that on a plaque!
Thank you for your gear videos! I’m a newbie backpacker (only a few nights out total over the past couple years because of family etc) although I’ve been an avid hiker and camper my whole life. I’m pretty happy with my gear because of all the research I did with the help of CZcams videos.
I just got a great deal from the REI used gear section and spent $150 on a barely used (no signs of use!) Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 mtnGLO Solution Dye tent. I’m so excited to finally own my first tent that is also lightweight!
I love my REI Flexlite Air chair, but I hate that it sinks into soft ground every time I use it. I haven’t tried any DIY fixes yet. What are your recommendations to fix this issue?
I have the Nemo Tensor regular wide insulated pad, and my sleep is terribly uncomfortable. I’m a side sleeper, with a genetic connective tissue disorder, and it feels like my hips are on cement (but letting out the right amount of air puts me on the ground). Would two stacked inflatable sleeping pads work, or the Helinox Lite Cot with one pad, or is a hammock my best/only option?
I have the Big Agnes Q-Core SLX 25 inch sleeping pad and it is amazing! I am a 64 year old side sleeper who wants comfort. It’s also quiet when you change positions. My old mattress was so noisy every time I moved.
I was going to say the q core saved my sanity. And the tiny x pump on Amazon for $20 will fill 2 q core pads 6 nights for sure making the outdoors cozy and convenient.
That Zenbivy looks amazing, I think I'll pick up a Fast Sheet and pair it with my existing quilt system as the quilt options they have are quite a bit heavier than what I currently have.
If you can just get the sheet that’s a great way to upgrade your existing quilt
I've thought of that too! What will you use for clips to attach to your existing quilt?
@@kirareoh1143 I have a quilt from Hammock Gear and they have small d rings on the quilt for pads.
Really appreciate the tips. I couldn't help but think it sounds like you are just getting older and not wanting to be without some creature comforts😆 careful, a pop up camper might be next! But really, thank you
whoa whoa whoa! Shots fired!
As a big guy I want to try that stool!
Love your reviews! The Zen-Bivy looks amazing, but do they make it with a synthetic fill? I'm allergic to down. FYI....more reviews on synthetic bags/quilts and puffy jackets would be awesome. Thanks!
They do have one.
"ease up everybody, the back with the chair is coming" 👌
Hey Eric,
Longtime fan of the channel, always love the content. I just recently moved to Phoenix, AZ from Wyoming (will be here for a few years). Avid outdoorsman looking to find some cool spots to backpack in AZ. My wife and I have been to flag, payson and other spots the past few months but looking for something new. Any advice?? Cheers
Here's a quick tip for those that want to get all of the water in the filter bag. Wrap one hand around the filter to force the "unreachable" water into the flaccid part of the bag. Easy peasy.
It reallly is that simple.
I think there is a lock out feature on that headlamp
Hi Eric, in your cottage industry gear video a couple of months ago you mentioned that with the Zenbivy you got a large but would have gone with the 20x72 if you had to do it again. Is that sill your opinion? I'm seriously considering a zero bed when they come back in stock later this month but am torn on the size. I'm 5'7", 145lbs and have a 25x72 pad. Mike G has recommended a large but it sort of sounds like they always recommend larger is better.
Its amazing how some hiking things are so expensive.
I want a AT centric gear review. I think some of these recomendations would change.
What time of year do new tents/tent designs come out? I need a new one.
Try the nemo moonlite chair. Could you please tell how tall you are I want to order a hoodie but want to make sure I get the right size.
I realy would like to know how the Big Agnes Anvil Horn and the Big Agnes Diamond Park compares to the zenbivy in terms of comfort and pack size.
I've heard from other CZcamsrs that aggressive compression sacks are bad for your sleeping bag?
Anyways, I love my drybag/compression sack for my sleeping bag + 1 change of clothes. It gives me peace of mind if I go overboard canoeing - I know I can sleep dry when I make it to the other side if things go sideways while carrying less weight overall. Great content, cheers.
It's only if you store your sleeping bag in the compression sack while at home, it will crush the insulation. It is fine to use on a backpacking trip just remove after your trip.
@@IdRatherBeHiking appreciate the advice, thanks! :)
@@bowensix I talk about this in my most recent video with my new Kings Canyon quilt, I show the storing sack and the backpacking sack this quit comes with if you want to see an actual example.
Wow that bag sure looks like a knock off of the now discontinued Nemo Tango solo 30 I have. It is a quilt and fitted sheet system for the full length pad just like that one with the hood too. I love it but apparently it was too early for its time. I don’t know if 30 is a good number, maybe a survival number not a comfort number as it is not a shoulder season bag. It is like sleeping in my bed. I just carry my Enlightened Equipment Torrid pullover, torrid pant, and torrid booties for those sub freezing trips. No need for a another quilt or bag. Nice video as always.
The zenbivvy definitely looks a great system pretty expensive especially to get it into the UK.ive said it before about jetboils the people that moan about them got the wrong 1 I've got the micro mo and it's great boils water fast and the attachment makes it great for real cooking spend the extra and get the right jetboil
So with jetboil I got it wrong, with not being able to store all the bits with gas canister in the pot, the extra flimsy useless plastic bottom, the extra pan support because you can't just quickly add another pot on without it, the lid falling off, the strainer in the lid clogging even with peas or sweetcorn, the mouth hole dribbling, the extra pot needed to make a hot drink when your meal is cooked, the bulk, and the extra expensive cost.
My only real issues with the Zenbivy is two fold. One they are heavy for the cost. Two they do not make a 10 degree double bed, and they have no plans to.
I hear that. I bet it's tough to make a two person bed at that temp rating. But, I dunno!
What's your favourite warm weather sleeping pad?
Helinox chair zero is the way to go.
that's the word on the trail!
wish you could get zenbivy in the uk!
5:09 That jacket in that beautiful color doesn't seem to be sold anymore :( sadness.
14:22 also surprised I don't see more of these. I have the medium large and largest (deployments) and they make life so much easier
The supremely best equipment?
Hip and knee replacement in titanium!
Love the idea of the ZenBivy, but it will make my pack so much heavier 😔 It will double the weight of my sleep system.
Yeah but the sleep quality will also double??
Hey Eric, I like your honest review on these products. It's obvious that you don't stay up all night picking them apart and find fault with them so you can bash them in a video like someone else we know. On another note, the U.S. Navy just closed Puget Sound and they are saying it's because of earthquakes. This is big. Watch Mary Greeley News and see what you make of it.
Hmm. Interesting. I’ll try to check it out! Thanks for the heads up
Just curious how tall are you? I'm 5' 8" and 160 lbs, I ordered the small All-Paca Hoodie because every reviewer said its cut big so size down, it fit me like a sausage casing, bummed I had to return it, but haven't ordered the Medium yet.
When you start off the video talking about your SEVERAL DECADES of backpacking...makes me question if I should listen to your video with believability!!! 🙂 You'd have to be in our 70's, at least.
can you fit two 25 wide mats in there?
Backpacking for the rich man. Holy cow.
I loved my fjällräven keb but ever since I started powerlifting they restrict my movement too much. Sadly I haven't found something as nice and comfy
Do you have a video explaining your room filled with gears? I'd love a video where you teach us how to ORGANIZE our gear :D
@zenbivy… our mattress at home was 3K… if I were spending more nights in the trail, I’d be all in. Unfortunately only 5-10 nights per year.
I hear that. When you’re not spending tons of time on the trails then no need to go crazy.
@@BackpackingTV I wish I had the time to go crazy…
I couldn’t find a link for the alpaca mid layer that you’re wearing. Can you please provide a link? I’m normally very “budget conscious”, but there are some things I will drop some $$$$ on. And going off your description, that seems to be one of them.
all the links in my descriptions were temporarily deleted. I've updated them. It should be there now! And yeah, it's worth it in my opinion!
Do you use footprint with your Copper Spur? I just got one but now I'm a bit puzzled between bikepack, regular or diy footprint options...
I almost never use a footprint. Depends on where you're going though. Prickly desert, I'd bring something to protect the tent from rips and pokes. If it's just for moisture, I often don't bring anything, but I'm abnormal on that front. If I do anything I'd go for Tyvek, rather than a formal footprint.
Those event bags are the best. Dont even need to really compress them, theyll do it naturally in your pack.
I recommend a titanium dinner box, just check ali. 800ml. Big enough to fry in, clamps on the side, so you can cold soak or protect squishy food. Weighs about 8 oz.
Stop advertising them Zenbivies, cause i want one.
haha, good luck getting your hands on one!
@@BackpackingTV Well if it wasnt for some dude banging on about how good they are. Though the 30x80 are interesting, I refuse to sleep on a 80s style blow up. They were horrible then, theyre orrible now.
I bought the Big Agnes Lost Ranger 3n1 15° sleep system, having watched you and Dan flip out over it. Did a bit more research and decided it would be a great fit for my backpacking style. I was a wee bit surprised at your choice on this vid... was it a price point issue?
Dan hated the 3n1, where I have actually been a fan of it. I think Dan's criticisms are totally fair. I just don't mind the mummy feel of the inner bag and felt like it was very versatile. However, I think Zenbivy executed the idea even better than Big Agnes. It's way more comfortable, and actually warmer too, and cheaper. Although it is heavier. In the end, I went Zenbivy over BA for comfort, price, and it's the bag I'll use over any other unless whenever possible.
@@BackpackingTV good feedback, Eric. I appreciate it. You still did me right with your BA review and i sleep like a baby on it at 53 with a bad shoulder. Great video today, btw
I own Lost Ranger 3in1 15 for about an year now and I'm pretty happy with it. I don't have any problems the zippers and mummy style inner at all. It's so extremely light for summer and not bulky at all for light winter. I using it with a compression sack from Mammut in S size and it fits perfectly.
I’ve been wanting a zen-bivy but they always seem to be sold out😢.
my heart cried when I saw you take the camera out of the bag without a lens cap on it :(
haha, you weren't supposed to notice that!
So beginners follow your advice & spend lots on heavy crap they don't need. Which is good because less people in the back country!
Now we need a Best Gear Cheaper Than Beer for all of us completely broke college students who can’t spend hundreds on each item
I still dislike heavy gear but your wife made me lol !!
haha, good. She's hilarious!
You buy once, you cry once!
I got expensive taste. And this was a damn good video. Good bye paycheque 😂