Would you consider a try before buy or just a rental line with a huge deposit? I’d really love to try your tent, but I live in the Sierra granite and have an aversion to trekking pole tents, haven’t even tried yet, but would like to try w/o the overall commitment.
@@kristymoore7052 I understand wanting to try it out, but that is hard for us to do because we'd end up shipping it back and forth, spending time cleaning it, and then having to sell used tents. So that's not something we have the capacity to offer right now. What you can do though is order the tent, pitch it carefully (keep it clean) and then return it if it's not for you. There are ways to pitch these on granite like the 'big rock, little rock' method, but also even in the sierra's you can usually find a spot with dirt and those are the nicer spots to sleep anyways.
@@kristymoore7052i just pitched my durston x mid on sierra granite with rocks and it was super secure and i have been so pleased with this tent. also the price can’t be beat.
@@durstongearHey Dan! Been looking at the Kakwa 40L pack you make recently, and I think it looks awesome! My only potential issue with it, is that I am a tall (6’3”) guy with a 23.5 inch torso. I saw that the large size of your pack tops out at 21.5 inch torso length, and was just wondering what your experience was with people wearing a pack a couple inches under their size. Do you make any packs with a larger torso length? Thanks and I also use the X-Mid one and it works great so far!
@@andrewstrow1837 Hmm....one option is the 55L model has the load lifters an inch higher so that works to a bit taller height. If you're definitely 23.5" though, I wouldn't recommend it because it probably is too small.
I love how Dan always watches and comments on every video reviewing his gear. Makes me truly believe he takes in the feedback, on his already excellent gear, to make those small improvements to further refine his awesome stuff to perfection 👍🏻
In the end the best gear of 2024 is the friends we made along the way. 😂 Also the Nemo Moonlight Elite chair. Since I saw you use that in Buckskin I have taken it on every trip. Love it!
It would be awesome if you did a hike with Dan Durston in Canadian Rockies. It's beautiful out there and with your type of film-making, I believe it would be breathtaking. And you could pick Dan's brain as well. 😎
I like this style of video and the fact that you covered a range of price points. Can we get a part 2 where you cover the stuff you couldn't fit into this video?
Love the Durston Kakwa - been using the 40L for about a year. Added a ZPacks lumbar pad and it’s like it was made for it. Awesome pack! Another great piece of gear I’ve added is the Patagonia Houdini Wind Jacket. 3.5oz, packs down tiny and adds so much warmth on top of a windy ridge or on chilly mornings underway when a puffer is too much. About $100, bring it on every trip.
Great content as always! Your hat looks great on you and definitely has that cool factor. I recommend trying out the Tilley Airflow Sun Hat. It is very light, great in wind, and you throw it in the washing machine after your trip and it looks brand new. I’ve used mine for over 15 years and it looks almost brand new. Also, they have a lifetime warranty.
Gotta say, I like Nemo's standard moonlight chair better than the elite version, it's far more comfortable to me. Nice that the lighter option exists, but I'll take the extra comfort with slightly more weight any day lol
Same, almost twice the weight but so much better. I bring it on shorter trips or even vacations. Took them to Puerto Rico and sat on the beach with them. I have 3 moonlights and all the rubber feet wore out at the same time luckily at the end of the trip. (I have 3 boys) Nemo sent me 3 sets no charge. So check the feet every once in awhile.
I could not stand the Elite. Super uncomfortable. Then I tried the standard Moonlite and now I carry that over my Chair Zero on most trips, even with the significant weight difference. Easily the most comfortable backpacking chair that I have used and totally worth it!
Love On X backcountry. I have the Premium subscription and use it almost daily. Most of the rest of your recommendations is outside my budget right now. I do tend to get gear that's been out awhile and that has been very successful for me. Keep up the videos.
I use the Zenbivy Core with 20 degree. I have the single one, and when my boyfriend and I go car camping, we use the double one with the exped. It’s amazing-the hood is the best thing I’m seen.
I bought the zen bivey light bed a bit ago, of course, they come out with the ultralight bed…story of my backpacking gear life. I LOVE my light bed.i bought the 25 degree for specifically for summer Sierra trips, just bought the 1/2 sheet and I know that I’ll progress to the UL warmer quilt but I’ll wait until the make then nor white or red and black. Good video.
Durston sweeping the awards :) I agree with you on the kakwa and the padding on the hips. I got the Zpacks lumbar belt attached pad and it 100% solved the issue. He tried to solve it with the wapta but the way the belt digs into one spot in my hip did not solve it either. I threw the Zpacks lumbar pad on the wapta and it solved it again. He is getting closer to solving that issue with each design - till then I will enjoy everything else the packs bring and augment it with the pad. He just needs to make a sleeping system next.
Thanks for the Kakwa tip! I have been shoving a folded sit pad back there to stop the frame ends from digging in and creating hot spots, but that pad looks like a step up!
Good to know about the lumbar support! Literally just commented about this wondering if people have had success. No issues with having no middle attachment point on the pack?
@@ManivanAdventures no issues on the kakwa. It slips around a bit on the Wapta but I tied a line between the two bottom loops on the Wapta and connected the middle line to that. Have not tested it yet but it is my current working solution.
Love your content. The longer adventure doc stuff and the gear reviews. A couple tents I see very little of online that i would love to see a review on are the bonfus middus 1p and the argali owyhee. Also the pureclear water filter only has a couple so another experienced opinion would be great.
I’m with you all the way with the Durston kakawa and hat. I use the Durston 55 and will probably never use another brand as it’s been through bushwhacking hell and back again! And it asked for more!! As for the hat I use the Scala brand Aussie wool as it’s crushable and great for all seasons. Eric as always thank you for another great non UL video!! Can’t wait to see wheee you take us next.
I’m all for spending top dollar for gear but also love it when I see/ use something like the $ 65 3F Ul gear backpack thats is so similar to this $260 one , weighs next to nothing and is super durable.
I have used that stove in Chilean Andes even to 4200mts above sea level, excellent. Its only problem is the weight that it can handle, no more than 1,5-2kgs or it can bend while hot. Good review!!
When it comes to stoves, what I've learned over time is that the fuel you use matters more than what stove you have, when it comes to performance at high elevation. Pay a little more and get a higher quality fuel, you won't regret it.
@thisguy7175 isobutane/propane mix is usually a little more expensive than the butane/propane mix at Walmart, but it burns more consistently at higher elevation and colder temperatures. Liquid fuel is the most reliable, but its heavy to carry around. There is a lot of information about this on reddit and here on RUclips if you want to learn more 🙂
Hi Eric, highly recommend you try out a SWD pack which has the option of a floating wrap around belt. Phenomenal carry for the weight. It won't have thebelt issue that you identified on the Kakwa. Cheers,
Another vote for SWD. There is a reason they have a wait time...only packs that compare in comfort is seek outside, and I think SWD does it just a little better.
@@paulkhanna1 I actually had a Gila and went to a Wolverine and the latter carries better and is lighter by about a pound. It is like SWD took the best from a wide variety of packs and nailed it.
Eric, I was was thinking of switching Katie and my sleeping pads for either one of Zenbivy’s new pads orrrrr… EXPED’s 25 in ultra 5R (green colored one). I think Devin and Justin have experience with EXPED’s backpacking pad, but do you have any experience with it to compare it to Zen’s new pads (warmth and comfort mainly)?
How do you deal with previous seasons gear? Do you store it all? Re-sell some or maybe sponsors reclaim something after the deal is off/contract is finished?
Good question! I have become a de-facto gear lender for my friends. I give a lot away too, either to friends or make donations. Sometimes I'll sell stuff on marketplace and occasionally I'll also just ship it back to brands.
I use a hat much like the one you have: a barmah squashy kangaroo. I found this when I worked in Australia and it has never left my hat stable. $67 at hats by the hundred. Actual kangaroo skin so extremely light weight and durable. Most comfortable hat I’ve ever had. Get tons of comments on the trail.
Hi Eric, wondering what size frame you got for the Kakwa? Your torso length? I'm still making adjustments to my large, but seems like a medium might be a better fit.....
Big sky makes solid tents as well. I have the 1 person evolution. Ultralight, semi freestanding, and great quality relative to the price. Highly recommend.
The Zen bivvy seems to be a pulled apart Serria Designs Backcountry bed, with abit more leg space due to the components being seperate now, but the Backcountry Bed is easier to set up, lol, just put your pad in the sleeve and done. I’m sure I’d like it since I love my backcountry bed, but that price point is crazy! ❤
The Zenbivy Light bed is significantly cheaper than the Ultralight bed and the same price as the Serria Designs Backcountry bed. It also looks to be 8-15oz lighter too depending on what insulation sheet you go with. The Zenbivy also allows you to fully unclip in warmer environments and gives you the ability to swap to different quilts depending on the environment and temps. So for both being the same entry price and Zenbivy even being cheaper if you went the Core Bed. The Core Bed is 35 oz which also appears to be even lighter than the Backcountry.
At 11 grams per boil, enjoy your BRS...I own the same stove. If you want to cut your gram usage per boil by half use the FireMaple Hornet 2 for a few dollars more....I use this for all my long distance hikes. You mentioned MSR Pocket Rocket, and Jetboil...again, these stoves use half the fuel per boil than the 3200 style stove. Enjoyed your video.
Never understood the need for the insulated food pouch. If I’m ever on a trip where it’s cold enough that you would want to use one I have a puffy and just zip it under my puffy and keep it against my stomach. It’s also warms you up too!
Eric, you might want to check out an Alpha Direct hoody. I have a Senchi Design but other companies make similar pieces. I was shocked by the warmth of mine and with a wind breaker I never used my puffy.
10:20 I have a different complaint about the Durston Kakwa. I like the pack. I did 223 miles on the Ouachita Trail with it here in Arkansas. But I have two complaints. First, the back panel has no ventilation at all. My back would get super sweaty and after a few days on trail, it smelled super rank. The other issue I have had is that I'm a bigger guy and the hip belt pockets are hard for me to see into. To Durston's credit, the do open and close one handed alright. I've had some far more expensive big brand packs where that isn't true of their hip belt pockets. But I can't see into the pockets on the Durston. They sit on the sides of my hips and it's awkward. I wish he offered a version with no hip belt pockets. I've switched to a pack with no pockets on the hip belt and I'm going to be carrying a fanny pack. Easier to get into and I can see into it much easier.
I really like Sunday Afternoon sun hats. They are lightweight, they pack nicely and they cost a fraction of that leather hat. Less of an Indiana Jones look to be sure, but I don't think I'm cool enough to pull off something like that leather hat anyway. In addition to backpacking, I use those Sunday Afternoon sun hats for kayaking, pickleball, and even yard work. When they get nasty with sweat, I can toss them in the wash and they are good as new.
Question on the Zenbivy system. I ordered a Zenbivy bed and it smelled like wet dog. They sent me a new one and it still smelled of wet dog. Did you have the same issue?
How tall are you and how long is that Zenbivy Pad? It's just that yours is not the only review video where it seems like the user's feet are hanging way off the end of the pad.
This one is 72 inches long and I have a massive extra large quilt (hence why it's so much more expensive). But in reality when I'm actually sleeping on it my feet are on it just fine. It does look like a short mattress for some reason based on what I filmed here but it's just as long as typical mattresses.
I love ya Eric but I’m not spending 200$ on a mid layer that a 20$ fleece can do exactly the same… I wish I could try out some OV clothing but not for these prices
Thank you, useful video as always. @eric_hanson : about backpack, would you choose this Durston Kakwa 55 or the Mysteric Ranch Radix 57 ? (Back side seem more adjustable on Radix + I love the long zip)
It is a fine hat indeed. Love the ultralight weight trekking staffs. I'm put off by packs mostly because I believe the hip belt and upper shoulder straps should be centrally pivot mounted aligned with the spine and supporting back stays. I might have to just build it because I can't find anyone that does.😂
I finally broke and bought a xmid1. Whoa I was pleasantly surprised.(my newphew is now claiming that has 'his tent' he loves it so much). I bought zenbivy back in 2021, and just purchased the new UL mattress, pillow & the new UL sheet (it's so light! I blew up the new pillow...jury is still out for me.)
Haave your thoughts on Mystery Ranch (and the Bridger in particular) changed at all since your Backpacking TV days now that you've transitioned to more of an ultralight perspective?
Great video! Quick question, are all camp stove fuels created equal and if not which ones to you prefer? I was gifted a Jetboil flash so that’s what I’m going to use for now just to make the in-laws happy since they bought it for me. Looking for fuel recommendations. Thanks
As far as I know all Isobutane fuels (the common canister fuels) are all made by the same manufacturer and then various labels are put on it. So MSR, Jetboil, Snowpeak, etc all the same. There are some difference mixes and for cold camping getting a 4 season mix is better. But it boils (heyo!) down any canister fuel will do fine.
I do like that hat. It helps you look the "Attenborough" part 😉 I think the $1000 price tag on the Zenbivy is fair though. If you look at competitors prices for similar items and add them up, it'll cost about the same. I personally can't afford the same setup you have, but if I could, I'd seriously consider it. Especially that pillow! I'm on a quest for the perfect pillow.
The quilt can be used on its own, or with any combination of other gear. It's the sheet itself that's made to pair with the quilt as it has specific connection hoops to link the two together. That sheet will fit on any 25" wide mattress. No problem using a Big Agnes mattress.
I have an older Catalyst. Good backpack. It takes some work but I can remove water bottle from the side pocket. However, I am unable to get it back in the side pocket without removing the backpack from my back. Uncertain how the Circuit would compare.
I do still use and enjoy Mystery Ranch. Definitely considered putting the Radix pack on this list as it's a solid pack. But I want to see a few improvements to that new line before I give it an award. Bridger pack is still one of my all-time favorites and my certain go-to for heavy load carries.
I cant understand why bags like the big agnes anvil horn (no down on bottom, sleeve for a mat) weren't that popular, but these zen bivys bags are. they are much cheaper, simpler, and imo perform much better
I used the Big Agnes Ranger 3N1 for about a year and thought it was a really cool sleeping bag / bed. But because it had a small mummy bag inner it pretty much took away all the advantages of the more bed-like outer. The Zenbivy is much better at feeling like a bed than a mummy sleeping bag and that's why I give it so much attention.
@@thisbeem2714 no, I haven't used the zen bivy. but I've seen many reviews of them. I don't think it's a very good design (the toggles and the air gaps that would still allow drafts). it's also far more expensive. I have an anvil horn 15 - and it's easily the best bag I've had. works very well
@@haydenwalton2766 I have just not really seen a side by side comparison of the two similar systems by someone who has used both of them. Granted I have not searched extensively, merely watched reviews. I would probably never buy a system as expensive as the zen bivy. But my curiosity does get piqued about whether there is a big enough advantage to spend so much or if it’s just a big gimmick. Thank you for your info!
I have that Nemo Tensor Extreme, but I don't know if it's me or what. The pad is very warm but the horizontal baffles are very uncomfortable for me. I've tried the micro adjust valve to where it's 1/2 way deflated but my back is still sore. I have a pad with vertical baffles and I sleep fine, but the regular 20"" is too narrow, they discontinued that model and I haven't found anything else yet. Oh well, I guess I'll just keep looking.
My back has been killing me lately, shocking pain early in the morning. So I have gone back to the floor, regular carpet with an underlay. I put the duvet down and fold it over myself. I’m very comfortable, which brings me to why. I feel like I’m floating on a narrow balance beam when on an air mattress, it makes me anxious. Inevitably I fall off, or part of me does. It’s for this reason that camping I take a zlite. So to those that can potentially tolerate little squishyness under you I’d recommend trying it at home. Adapting to it at home. Start with a thin mattress and work your way down. It’s definitely worth it for me. I sleep better, my back is better. No blowing and letting out air. No punctures. 2 downsides. Rocky ground and insulation values. I am interested in some kind of semi ridged foldable system to lay down first. Any ideas?
I wish the Zlite came in a wider width than a mere 20"; it may work for ultralighters wanting to shave every gram, but most of the adult world needs a couple more inches for comfort. I ended up handing our Zlites to our boys, and using Woods Expedition Accordion Mats from Canadian Tire instead - 40% cheaper and 2" wider (22 vs 20) and of comparable thickness and squishiness. Heck, even the Ozark Trail accordion mat from Walmart is 22" wide! ofc its thickness/squishiness is significantly less than either Zlite or Woods, but it's CA$23 vs CA$50 for the Woods or CA$80 for the Zlight.
It would be great to flash up the gram/kg comparison as you speak. I don’t think I’m so successful at the on the fly conversion. Great videos as always, thanks 🙏🏻
@@eric_hanson I second that request! It'll help your poor Northern friends enjoy your videos with less effort and help to broaden your audience beyond North America as well as time goes by. Thankfully it's not stressful converting the US Imperial measurements to metric, unlike converting USD to CAD and then adding 50% for dishonourable distributors and resellers' prices.... Which reminds me, I appreciate you sharing tips to shave $$$ off Zenbivy pricing, as that's the part of my gear I think I'd most like to upgrade over the coming year or two. It looks like the most comfortable combination of cloud and coccoon!
Gee the Zen- Bivy is like sleeping with your sleeping bag open otherwise great video. Quick question: what is the green down(?) jacket you were wearing in the “snow section” ?
The Zenbivy quilt attaches to the sheet and that does an amazing job of eliminating drafts, so it's not like sleeping with your bag open. That giant green jacket is from Norrona ( the exact model is sadly discontinued) but this one is very close: bit.ly/482WcE0
I didn't have a problem with the BRS in different use cases. I did, however, have it poop out on me twice. I'm not into buying disposable gear, so I've since switched to a Soto stove which, while heavier, is certainly going to hold up better.
It pooped out, like it broke? Or the gas stopped reliably flowing? Yeah gear that really lasts is obviously great and the Soto is well loved. I just haven't had any experiences to suggest the BRS is a disposable item.
@@eric_hanson On my first use and first BRS, during winter camping in Arkansas where it got slightly below freezing, it just wouldn't work in the morning. I do not believe I had any water/liquid intrusion and couldn't figure out what made it stop working. It never went back to working even in warmer contexts. The second one I had started fine, but then after 2-3 trips the flame was uselessly weak. So, having two break on me was enough. I bought a windmaster with the REI coupon and I'm very happy with it.
@@karmahavok that's odd. My first thought is that with cold weather it's actually the fuel canister losing pressure (they don't work well in cold weather) but that's no reason why it shouldn't work in warmer temps. Anyway, bummer you've had bad experiences with it I've been shockingly impressed. I was very skeptical these would work well.
I still need to watch the rest the video but bruh 1000 for a sleeping solution is fuckin ridiculous that’s double the price of my mattress I sleep on every night
The problem with Nemo is that they don’t make a long pad (compared to other brands). The longest they make is 6’4”. As a guy who is 6’7, I can make do with most 6’6” pads, but not Nemo…..😢
I haven't used Natural Atlas and I'm not super familiar with it, but it looks like it's a map / field guide where a community will log and input data especially around wildlife sightings. Which sounds pretty cool, but I'm guessing that the map, terrain, and trail functions are not going to be on par with OnX. If you want to do a lot of wildlife/bird watching then that might be a better option. But I think for purely hiking/backpacking/etc the OnX is the best I know of.
Good stuff. I’ll never go with any footwear other than bombproof FGL Gore Tex and Vibram boots. I recently tried the Merrell Moab Speed 2 GTX, and they were absolute garbage in comparison.
Completely disagree on the BRS stove. I have had it at altitude and low temps and was not even able to boil water at all. I would go with the Soto WIndmaster for best all-around and still pretty light.
ok, not considering a huge price, Zenbivy is good, but how can sleeping bag or whatever be of a white color in outdoor conditions, where you have enough dust, mud and lots of stains? 😆
While it's not particularly breathable I've found that it works well even in hot weather. I live in Arizona and this summer I'm still rockin it even though it's super hot out. It's very comfortable!
I've had the Big Sky Intl rehydration pouch in my wishlist from GGG for MONTHS and I had it in my cart and it sold out before I could check out. Watching a few different YTers make 'best of' lists in the last few months and all of them had the pouch in their lists... I think I know the culprits behind my hydration pouch cart theft lol stop talking about it until they've restocked and I've already gotten mine ; . ;
I'm doing other videos on solid options on a tight budget. This is just my list of the best gear (whatever the price) of the stuff I've used in the last year.
Thanks for the kind words :) Glad you're liking the gear and thanks for the feedback. I'm always working on improvements :)
- Dan
Would you consider a try before buy or just a rental line with a huge deposit? I’d really love to try your tent, but I live in the Sierra granite and have an aversion to trekking pole tents, haven’t even tried yet, but would like to try w/o the overall commitment.
@@kristymoore7052 I understand wanting to try it out, but that is hard for us to do because we'd end up shipping it back and forth, spending time cleaning it, and then having to sell used tents. So that's not something we have the capacity to offer right now. What you can do though is order the tent, pitch it carefully (keep it clean) and then return it if it's not for you. There are ways to pitch these on granite like the 'big rock, little rock' method, but also even in the sierra's you can usually find a spot with dirt and those are the nicer spots to sleep anyways.
@@kristymoore7052i just pitched my durston x mid on sierra granite with rocks and it was super secure and i have been so pleased with this tent. also the price can’t be beat.
@@durstongearHey Dan! Been looking at the Kakwa 40L pack you make recently, and I think it looks awesome! My only potential issue with it, is that I am a tall (6’3”) guy with a 23.5 inch torso. I saw that the large size of your pack tops out at 21.5 inch torso length, and was just wondering what your experience was with people wearing a pack a couple inches under their size. Do you make any packs with a larger torso length? Thanks and I also use the X-Mid one and it works great so far!
@@andrewstrow1837 Hmm....one option is the 55L model has the load lifters an inch higher so that works to a bit taller height. If you're definitely 23.5" though, I wouldn't recommend it because it probably is too small.
I love how Dan always watches and comments on every video reviewing his gear. Makes me truly believe he takes in the feedback, on his already excellent gear, to make those small improvements to further refine his awesome stuff to perfection 👍🏻
In the end the best gear of 2024 is the friends we made along the way. 😂 Also the Nemo Moonlight Elite chair. Since I saw you use that in Buckskin I have taken it on every trip. Love it!
If I made a list of top backpacking friends of 2024, you'd be right at the top.
I love me a good bromance 💖
It would be awesome if you did a hike with Dan Durston in Canadian Rockies. It's beautiful out there and with your type of film-making, I believe it would be breathtaking. And you could pick Dan's brain as well. 😎
Ohhh! Do this! ❤
Yes. Definately
Nitecore is my go to for good quality, fair priced performance. I wouldnt use their handhelds for professional use, but their headlamps are top notch
If you flip the Nemo tensor extreme upside down, you have an excellent summer sleeping pad. So think about it, two sleeping pad for the price of one!
I like this style of video and the fact that you covered a range of price points. Can we get a part 2 where you cover the stuff you couldn't fit into this video?
Really an excellent video. I like the direction in which you are headed. Made myself a little shopping list as a result. Thank you.
Love the Durston Kakwa - been using the 40L for about a year. Added a ZPacks lumbar pad and it’s like it was made for it. Awesome pack! Another great piece of gear I’ve added is the Patagonia Houdini Wind Jacket. 3.5oz, packs down tiny and adds so much warmth on top of a windy ridge or on chilly mornings underway when a puffer is too much. About $100, bring it on every trip.
Great content as always! Your hat looks great on you and definitely has that cool factor. I recommend trying out the Tilley Airflow Sun Hat. It is very light, great in wind, and you throw it in the washing machine after your trip and it looks brand new. I’ve used mine for over 15 years and it looks almost brand new. Also, they have a lifetime warranty.
Over 1k for that sleeping system and I’m over here on my klymit recon 😅 maybe someday.
Exped 3r Ultra for £160 and featherstone moondance 25 for £200 is as good as you ever need
Gotta say, I like Nemo's standard moonlight chair better than the elite version, it's far more comfortable to me. Nice that the lighter option exists, but I'll take the extra comfort with slightly more weight any day lol
Same, almost twice the weight but so much better. I bring it on shorter trips or even vacations. Took them to Puerto Rico and sat on the beach with them. I have 3 moonlights and all the rubber feet wore out at the same time luckily at the end of the trip. (I have 3 boys) Nemo sent me 3 sets no charge. So check the feet every once in awhile.
I could not stand the Elite. Super uncomfortable. Then I tried the standard Moonlite and now I carry that over my Chair Zero on most trips, even with the significant weight difference. Easily the most comfortable backpacking chair that I have used and totally worth it!
Great video! If I may ask, what brand and style are those colorful sunglasses?
Love On X backcountry. I have the Premium subscription and use it almost daily. Most of the rest of your recommendations is outside my budget right now. I do tend to get gear that's been out awhile and that has been very successful for me. Keep up the videos.
Pretty sure Dan did update the lumbar portion of the Kakwa, you should see if you can get the newest version.
I use the Zenbivy Core with 20 degree. I have the single one, and when my boyfriend and I go car camping, we use the double one with the exped. It’s amazing-the hood is the best thing I’m seen.
I bought the zen bivey light bed a bit ago, of course, they come out with the ultralight bed…story of my backpacking gear life. I LOVE my light bed.i bought the 25 degree for specifically for summer Sierra trips, just bought the 1/2 sheet and I know that I’ll progress to the UL warmer quilt but I’ll wait until the make then nor white or red and black. Good video.
Durston sweeping the awards :)
I agree with you on the kakwa and the padding on the hips. I got the Zpacks lumbar belt attached pad and it 100% solved the issue.
He tried to solve it with the wapta but the way the belt digs into one spot in my hip did not solve it either. I threw the Zpacks lumbar pad on the wapta and it solved it again.
He is getting closer to solving that issue with each design - till then I will enjoy everything else the packs bring and augment it with the pad.
He just needs to make a sleeping system next.
Thanks for the Kakwa tip! I have been shoving a folded sit pad back there to stop the frame ends from digging in and creating hot spots, but that pad looks like a step up!
Good to know about the lumbar support! Literally just commented about this wondering if people have had success. No issues with having no middle attachment point on the pack?
I second the lumbar pad. I added that and it made it the Kakwa a million times more comfortable.
@@ManivanAdventures no issues on the kakwa. It slips around a bit on the Wapta but I tied a line between the two bottom loops on the Wapta and connected the middle line to that. Have not tested it yet but it is my current working solution.
@@millerhooAwesome, thanks! Ordering now! Lol
Love your content. The longer adventure doc stuff and the gear reviews. A couple tents I see very little of online that i would love to see a review on are the bonfus middus 1p and the argali owyhee.
Also the pureclear water filter only has a couple so another experienced opinion would be great.
I’m with you all the way with the Durston kakawa and hat. I use the Durston 55 and will probably never use another brand as it’s been through bushwhacking hell and back again! And it asked for more!!
As for the hat I use the Scala brand Aussie wool as it’s crushable and great for all seasons.
Eric as always thank you for another great non UL video!! Can’t wait to see wheee you take us next.
I’m all for spending top dollar for gear but also love it when
I see/ use something like the
$ 65 3F Ul gear backpack thats is so similar to this $260 one , weighs next to nothing and is super durable.
Thanks for putting celsius for us non-us viewers 😅
I have used that stove in Chilean Andes even to 4200mts above sea level, excellent. Its only problem is the weight that it can handle, no more than 1,5-2kgs or it can bend while hot. Good review!!
When it comes to stoves, what I've learned over time is that the fuel you use matters more than what stove you have, when it comes to performance at high elevation. Pay a little more and get a higher quality fuel, you won't regret it.
Like what?
@thisguy7175 isobutane/propane mix is usually a little more expensive than the butane/propane mix at Walmart, but it burns more consistently at higher elevation and colder temperatures. Liquid fuel is the most reliable, but its heavy to carry around. There is a lot of information about this on reddit and here on RUclips if you want to learn more 🙂
Hi Eric, highly recommend you try out a SWD pack which has the option of a floating wrap around belt. Phenomenal carry for the weight. It won't have thebelt issue that you identified on the Kakwa. Cheers,
Another vote for SWD. There is a reason they have a wait time...only packs that compare in comfort is seek outside, and I think SWD does it just a little better.
@@paulkhanna1 I actually had a Gila and went to a Wolverine and the latter carries better and is lighter by about a pound. It is like SWD took the best from a wide variety of packs and nailed it.
Eric, I was was thinking of switching Katie and my sleeping pads for either one of Zenbivy’s new pads orrrrr… EXPED’s 25 in ultra 5R (green colored one).
I think Devin and Justin have experience with EXPED’s backpacking pad, but do you have any experience with it to compare it to Zen’s new pads (warmth and comfort mainly)?
I don't have experience with the EXPED unfortunately, I've been using Zenbivy, Nemo Tensors, and Thermarest for the last year.
How do you deal with previous seasons gear? Do you store it all? Re-sell some or maybe sponsors reclaim something after the deal is off/contract is finished?
Good question! I have become a de-facto gear lender for my friends. I give a lot away too, either to friends or make donations. Sometimes I'll sell stuff on marketplace and occasionally I'll also just ship it back to brands.
While I may not always agree, (I mean... we are all humans and everything is subjective) I think you make great content! Cheers 🍻!
Which tent do you recommend for ultralight backpackers?
I use a hat much like the one you have: a barmah squashy kangaroo. I found this when I worked in Australia and it has never left my hat stable. $67 at hats by the hundred. Actual kangaroo skin so extremely light weight and durable. Most comfortable hat I’ve ever had. Get tons of comments on the trail.
Hi Eric, wondering what size frame you got for the Kakwa? Your torso length? I'm still making adjustments to my large, but seems like a medium might be a better fit.....
Big sky makes solid tents as well. I have the 1 person evolution. Ultralight, semi freestanding, and great quality relative to the price. Highly recommend.
That nu25 also has locking buttons so it doesn’t accidentally get turned on… I’m pretty happy with mine!
The Zen bivvy seems to be a pulled apart Serria Designs Backcountry bed, with abit more leg space due to the components being seperate now, but the Backcountry Bed is easier to set up, lol, just put your pad in the sleeve and done. I’m sure I’d like it since I love my backcountry bed, but that price point is crazy! ❤
The Zenbivy Light bed is significantly cheaper than the Ultralight bed and the same price as the Serria Designs Backcountry bed. It also looks to be 8-15oz lighter too depending on what insulation sheet you go with. The Zenbivy also allows you to fully unclip in warmer environments and gives you the ability to swap to different quilts depending on the environment and temps. So for both being the same entry price and Zenbivy even being cheaper if you went the Core Bed. The Core Bed is 35 oz which also appears to be even lighter than the Backcountry.
Both were designed by the same person, zen bivy was an evolution of the back country bed.
Thanks for all the great reviews. But what I really want to know is, what are those awesome teal shades you are wearing😎😄
At 11 grams per boil, enjoy your BRS...I own the same stove. If you want to cut your gram usage per boil by half use the FireMaple Hornet 2 for a few dollars more....I use this for all my long distance hikes.
You mentioned MSR Pocket Rocket, and Jetboil...again, these stoves use half the fuel per boil than the 3200 style stove.
Enjoyed your video.
I use a Zpacks lumbar pad and a sit pad fastened with shock cord on the back of the Kakwa, works great.
Never understood the need for the insulated food pouch. If I’m ever on a trip where it’s cold enough that you would want to use one I have a puffy and just zip it under my puffy and keep it against my stomach. It’s also warms you up too!
Eric, you might want to check out an Alpha Direct hoody. I have a Senchi Design but other companies make similar pieces. I was shocked by the warmth of mine and with a wind breaker I never used my puffy.
10:20 I have a different complaint about the Durston Kakwa. I like the pack. I did 223 miles on the Ouachita Trail with it here in Arkansas. But I have two complaints. First, the back panel has no ventilation at all. My back would get super sweaty and after a few days on trail, it smelled super rank. The other issue I have had is that I'm a bigger guy and the hip belt pockets are hard for me to see into. To Durston's credit, the do open and close one handed alright. I've had some far more expensive big brand packs where that isn't true of their hip belt pockets. But I can't see into the pockets on the Durston. They sit on the sides of my hips and it's awkward. I wish he offered a version with no hip belt pockets. I've switched to a pack with no pockets on the hip belt and I'm going to be carrying a fanny pack. Easier to get into and I can see into it much easier.
I really like Sunday Afternoon sun hats. They are lightweight, they pack nicely and they cost a fraction of that leather hat. Less of an Indiana Jones look to be sure, but I don't think I'm cool enough to pull off something like that leather hat anyway. In addition to backpacking, I use those Sunday Afternoon sun hats for kayaking, pickleball, and even yard work. When they get nasty with sweat, I can toss them in the wash and they are good as new.
Question on the Zenbivy system. I ordered a Zenbivy bed and it smelled like wet dog. They sent me a new one and it still smelled of wet dog. Did you have the same issue?
Great video Eric! What brand is the grey long-sleeve tee with hoodie? Thank you!
It's the Outdoor Vitals Altitude sun hoody and it's my favorite! alnk.to/cHNb77o
Thank you! Enjoy the weekend
How tall are you and how long is that Zenbivy Pad? It's just that yours is not the only review video where it seems like the user's feet are hanging way off the end of the pad.
This one is 72 inches long and I have a massive extra large quilt (hence why it's so much more expensive). But in reality when I'm actually sleeping on it my feet are on it just fine. It does look like a short mattress for some reason based on what I filmed here but it's just as long as typical mattresses.
@@eric_hansonThanks Eric! That’s reassuring!
Please can you review the exped megamat lite 12 lxw please for us with injuries that need a bit more comfort?
I love ya Eric but I’m not spending 200$ on a mid layer that a 20$ fleece can do exactly the same… I wish I could try out some OV clothing but not for these prices
Thank you, useful video as always.
@eric_hanson : about backpack, would you choose this Durston Kakwa 55 or the Mysteric Ranch Radix 57 ? (Back side seem more adjustable on Radix + I love the long zip)
Agree about the Kakwa 55 , get the Zpack Lumbar Pad! Perfect fit
It is a fine hat indeed. Love the ultralight weight trekking staffs. I'm put off by packs mostly because I believe the hip belt and upper shoulder straps should be centrally pivot mounted aligned with the spine and supporting back stays. I might have to just build it because I can't find anyone that does.😂
Sounds like you've got a design the world might need to see!
I finally broke and bought a xmid1. Whoa I was pleasantly surprised.(my newphew is now claiming that has 'his tent' he loves it so much). I bought zenbivy back in 2021, and just purchased the new UL mattress, pillow & the new UL sheet (it's so light! I blew up the new pillow...jury is still out for me.)
Haave your thoughts on Mystery Ranch (and the Bridger in particular) changed at all since your Backpacking TV days now that you've transitioned to more of an ultralight perspective?
Great video! Quick question, are all camp stove fuels created equal and if not which ones to you prefer? I was gifted a Jetboil flash so that’s what I’m going to use for now just to make the in-laws happy since they bought it for me. Looking for fuel recommendations. Thanks
As far as I know all Isobutane fuels (the common canister fuels) are all made by the same manufacturer and then various labels are put on it. So MSR, Jetboil, Snowpeak, etc all the same. There are some difference mixes and for cold camping getting a 4 season mix is better. But it boils (heyo!) down any canister fuel will do fine.
@@eric_hanson Thank you
Do you carry a camp knife and what is it?
What power bank do you use? If you use one. Thanks.
I do like that hat. It helps you look the "Attenborough" part 😉
I think the $1000 price tag on the Zenbivy is fair though. If you look at competitors prices for similar items and add them up, it'll cost about the same. I personally can't afford the same setup you have, but if I could, I'd seriously consider it. Especially that pillow! I'm on a quest for the perfect pillow.
Well if it boosts my Attenborough-ness, I won't take it off! And pillows make such a big difference, this is the best one I'm aware of.
I gotta say Kilosgear and Six Moon Designs are impressing me a lot.
Have you tested the SkyGoats hoodies? They seem like great mid-layers
Hi Eric, I am going backpacking for the first time in October. I am wondering, what is the camera storage on your chest called?
It's the Hyperlite Camera Pod. There's a link in the description. I do really like it!
Does the quilt only fit this mattress or could you use it on a Big Agnes mattress?
The quilt can be used on its own, or with any combination of other gear. It's the sheet itself that's made to pair with the quilt as it has specific connection hoops to link the two together. That sheet will fit on any 25" wide mattress. No problem using a Big Agnes mattress.
Have you tried the ULA equipment circuit backpack? Interested to see/hear your thoughts!
Best backpack out there. Mine Is 15 years ols and still going strong
I have an older Catalyst. Good backpack. It takes some work but I can remove water bottle from the side pocket. However, I am unable to get it back in the side pocket without removing the backpack from my back. Uncertain how the Circuit would compare.
I haven't but I've been eyeing that one up. Certainly looks nice and I hear good things.
I bought the belt for my husband- he really likes it for his lightweight pants, but not jeans 😊 Do you still use mystery ranch packs?
I do still use and enjoy Mystery Ranch. Definitely considered putting the Radix pack on this list as it's a solid pack. But I want to see a few improvements to that new line before I give it an award. Bridger pack is still one of my all-time favorites and my certain go-to for heavy load carries.
I cant understand why bags like the big agnes anvil horn (no down on bottom, sleeve for a mat) weren't that popular, but these zen bivys bags are.
they are much cheaper, simpler, and imo perform much better
I used the Big Agnes Ranger 3N1 for about a year and thought it was a really cool sleeping bag / bed. But because it had a small mummy bag inner it pretty much took away all the advantages of the more bed-like outer. The Zenbivy is much better at feeling like a bed than a mummy sleeping bag and that's why I give it so much attention.
@@eric_hanson the anvil horn is full width at the feet. and again, is much cheaper, simpler, and more effective
@@haydenwalton2766do you have both? Have you compared them personally? No snark, just curious to hear your personal experience of the differences.
@@thisbeem2714 no, I haven't used the zen bivy. but I've seen many reviews of them.
I don't think it's a very good design (the toggles and the air gaps that would still allow drafts).
it's also far more expensive.
I have an anvil horn 15 - and it's easily the best bag I've had.
works very well
@@haydenwalton2766 I have just not really seen a side by side comparison of the two similar systems by someone who has used both of them. Granted I have not searched extensively, merely watched reviews.
I would probably never buy a system as expensive as the zen bivy. But my curiosity does get piqued about whether there is a big enough advantage to spend so much or if it’s just a big gimmick.
Thank you for your info!
Have replaced my BRS 3000T with a gas efficient, wide pot handler and reliable Soto Windmaster. Never again with that UL stove. My first mistake.
Atom packs are a great brand with very similar price range to that pack, and also, they have an option to customize them.
Just ordered myself one of those hats and I’m getting a nitecore headlamp
I have that Nemo Tensor Extreme, but I don't know if it's me or what. The pad is very warm but the horizontal baffles are very uncomfortable for me. I've tried the micro adjust valve to where it's 1/2 way deflated but my back is still sore. I have a pad with vertical baffles and I sleep fine, but the regular 20"" is too narrow, they discontinued that model and I haven't found anything else yet. Oh well, I guess I'll just keep looking.
I think the vertical baffle orientation is generally pretty comfortable which is why I liked the Big Agnes Rapide and Zenbivy Lightbed so much.
Love the hat! And I trust your opinion on stoves as you'd use them in all conditions 🔥📛
I love astral I live in Western North Carolina. I’ve had multiple pairs of their shoes. I love their stuff.
My back has been killing me lately, shocking pain early in the morning. So I have gone back to the floor, regular carpet with an underlay. I put the duvet down and fold it over myself. I’m very comfortable, which brings me to why. I feel like I’m floating on a narrow balance beam when on an air mattress, it makes me anxious. Inevitably I fall off, or part of me does. It’s for this reason that camping I take a zlite. So to those that can potentially tolerate little squishyness under you I’d recommend trying it at home. Adapting to it at home. Start with a thin mattress and work your way down. It’s definitely worth it for me. I sleep better, my back is better. No blowing and letting out air. No punctures. 2 downsides. Rocky ground and insulation values. I am interested in some kind of semi ridged foldable system to lay down first. Any ideas?
😊😊ppppp😊😊😊pppppppppp😊😊😊😊😊😊p😊pp
I wish the Zlite came in a wider width than a mere 20"; it may work for ultralighters wanting to shave every gram, but most of the adult world needs a couple more inches for comfort. I ended up handing our Zlites to our boys, and using Woods Expedition Accordion Mats from Canadian Tire instead - 40% cheaper and 2" wider (22 vs 20) and of comparable thickness and squishiness. Heck, even the Ozark Trail accordion mat from Walmart is 22" wide! ofc its thickness/squishiness is significantly less than either Zlite or Woods, but it's CA$23 vs CA$50 for the Woods or CA$80 for the Zlight.
Definitely check out the Atom packs mo Lightweight but able to carry up to 42lbs. Great pack plus its Scottish great testing area for the pack
Nice, thanks for the recommendation!
It would be great to flash up the gram/kg comparison as you speak. I don’t think I’m so successful at the on the fly conversion. Great videos as always, thanks 🙏🏻
I need a sticky note that permanently lives on my computer reminding me to add grams. I almost always forget!
@@eric_hanson I second that request! It'll help your poor Northern friends enjoy your videos with less effort and help to broaden your audience beyond North America as well as time goes by. Thankfully it's not stressful converting the US Imperial measurements to metric, unlike converting USD to CAD and then adding 50% for dishonourable distributors and resellers' prices.... Which reminds me, I appreciate you sharing tips to shave $$$ off Zenbivy pricing, as that's the part of my gear I think I'd most like to upgrade over the coming year or two. It looks like the most comfortable combination of cloud and coccoon!
Gee the Zen- Bivy is like sleeping with your sleeping bag open otherwise great video. Quick question: what is the green down(?) jacket you were wearing in the “snow section” ?
The Zenbivy quilt attaches to the sheet and that does an amazing job of eliminating drafts, so it's not like sleeping with your bag open. That giant green jacket is from Norrona ( the exact model is sadly discontinued) but this one is very close: bit.ly/482WcE0
@@eric_hansonThanks for the quick reply. The zen-Bivy comment was tongue in cheek 😂 but keep doing what you’re doing. Fantastic work and content.
I didn't have a problem with the BRS in different use cases. I did, however, have it poop out on me twice. I'm not into buying disposable gear, so I've since switched to a Soto stove which, while heavier, is certainly going to hold up better.
It pooped out, like it broke? Or the gas stopped reliably flowing? Yeah gear that really lasts is obviously great and the Soto is well loved. I just haven't had any experiences to suggest the BRS is a disposable item.
@@eric_hanson On my first use and first BRS, during winter camping in Arkansas where it got slightly below freezing, it just wouldn't work in the morning. I do not believe I had any water/liquid intrusion and couldn't figure out what made it stop working. It never went back to working even in warmer contexts.
The second one I had started fine, but then after 2-3 trips the flame was uselessly weak.
So, having two break on me was enough. I bought a windmaster with the REI coupon and I'm very happy with it.
@@karmahavok that's odd. My first thought is that with cold weather it's actually the fuel canister losing pressure (they don't work well in cold weather) but that's no reason why it shouldn't work in warmer temps. Anyway, bummer you've had bad experiences with it I've been shockingly impressed. I was very skeptical these would work well.
I still need to watch the rest the video but bruh 1000 for a sleeping solution is fuckin ridiculous that’s double the price of my mattress I sleep on every night
What is the front pack at 9:49?
The problem with Nemo is that they don’t make a long pad (compared to other brands). The longest they make is 6’4”.
As a guy who is 6’7, I can make do with most 6’6” pads, but not Nemo…..😢
I love kislux that on the butterfly bag it says auguri / tanti auguri which means happy birthday
I tried to order the big sky rehydration bag and when I put my address in the site said they don't ship to this part of AZ which sux
They don't ship to a specific part of AZ? That seems odd. Maybe you could reach out to customer service?
@@eric_hanson will do thanks for the response ✌️🤙
“I’m not going to cut or reset”…. Instantly cuts the video lol!
Love the hat!
I would love to hear you compare and contrast OnX vs Natural Atlas
I haven't used Natural Atlas and I'm not super familiar with it, but it looks like it's a map / field guide where a community will log and input data especially around wildlife sightings. Which sounds pretty cool, but I'm guessing that the map, terrain, and trail functions are not going to be on par with OnX. If you want to do a lot of wildlife/bird watching then that might be a better option. But I think for purely hiking/backpacking/etc the OnX is the best I know of.
What about your watch? Suunto?
You certainly have a keen eye! Yup! It's the Suunto Race. I dig it.
Good stuff. I’ll never go with any footwear other than bombproof FGL Gore Tex and Vibram boots. I recently tried the Merrell Moab Speed 2 GTX, and they were absolute garbage in comparison.
Petition for On X to come to Australia! 🇦🇺
I'll see what I can do!
Completely disagree on the BRS stove. I have had it at altitude and low temps and was not even able to boil water at all.
I would go with the Soto WIndmaster for best all-around and still pretty light.
Interesting. I wonder if the quality control is inconsistent since he says he hasn’t had problems at high altitude.
The sun hat is very Indiana Jones like, so very cool.
I'll take that any day of the week!
The word for 2024..... Doink.
Bungie cord belt… good for those aging hikers with a beer gut from those sponsorship parties
The Durston pack is ok, but the Zpacks Arc Haul is a better carry by a long way.
Durston for the win
ok, not considering a huge price, Zenbivy is good, but how can sleeping bag or whatever be of a white color in outdoor conditions, where you have enough dust, mud and lots of stains? 😆
The zenbivy matress looked too thin to be comfortable when you showed the clip of being in it
It's very comfortable actually. When laying down you don't feel the ground at all.
That is a damn cool hat :)
What is the pouch on his chest?
Camera bag.
How breathable is that hat? I love a good sun hat! And hard to find…
While it's not particularly breathable I've found that it works well even in hot weather. I live in Arizona and this summer I'm still rockin it even though it's super hot out. It's very comfortable!
@@eric_hanson good enough for me! Thanks for the video!
I've had the Big Sky Intl rehydration pouch in my wishlist from GGG for MONTHS and I had it in my cart and it sold out before I could check out. Watching a few different YTers make 'best of' lists in the last few months and all of them had the pouch in their lists... I think I know the culprits behind my hydration pouch cart theft lol stop talking about it until they've restocked and I've already gotten mine ; . ;
When I read gear awards, I thought it going to be gear that won awards.
I was today years old when I first saw under that hat not being ginger WTAF!!
haha, yep! They call me two-tones.
Mountain hardware sun runner hat. Full coverage, significantly lighter and breathable.
The wide Nemo version is the way to go, the other versions are waist of money
Looking at your pricing breakdown every the cheapest combination is too expensive.
I'm doing other videos on solid options on a tight budget. This is just my list of the best gear (whatever the price) of the stuff I've used in the last year.
His budget gear videos are really good. Check them out❤