Other side of the pond to you but see if you can get hold of some Taylors Coffee Bags (or something similar). They're like Tea Bags but with ground coffee in them and they taste great. They're individually wrapped so they're fresh and also compostable. Gamechanger for me and my need for my coffee outdoors. Love that tripod, it's now on my Wishlist, shame my wallet is too small for that tent though...
@@bradybaker While the X-Dome did come out in 2024, Darwin used the other tent for miles and miles because he had access to that tent all year. I believe Durston tents are high quality, but Darwin might be being cautious about mentioning a tent he hasn’t put through the paces yet. I try to give people the benefit of the doubt. And the tent Darwin mentioned liking is a 2 person tent. He might prefer that for spreading out his mountaineering gear more than a 1+ Dome tent. (“Logic!” said the Professor half to himself. “Why don’t they teach logic at these schools?”)
@bradybaker This is such a weird/scary comment. I talk about things I ACTUALLY use in the field, not just the latest & greatest that everyone else is talking about because they know it will get views. I haven't used that tent, so why would I talk about it? I only speak to things I have a frame of reference on. I like how this makes you suspicious, but you're not suspicious of all of the other people on the platform talking about the same thing, at the same time when it's available for sale to the public before really putting in any miles using it? huh... OK, I guess?
Definitely interested in eventually checking it out, but it doesn't currently have the room & features that I want/need in a freestanding tent. It has nothing to do with weight. 😉
@DarwinOnthetrail I loved the Zpacks FreeDuo and enjoyed it out on many trails. I was stoked when they came out with the FreeZip. They really put a lot of thought into the new design. The Zpacks FreeZip is an amazing tent
It's all in the name "Evolved..." That flex tail.... so nice- although my button popped into the cylinder, I have to use my knife to push the button down. Stoked that the Packs tent is a good one! That is my next tent purchase!
About the OnX app. I don't know what I did wrong, but I hiked the L2H route Badwater--Whitney and im SO GLAD I also downloaded the route on Alltrails. As soon as I lost service in badwater basin the OnX app logged me out and said I can't log in unless I have service. Yes, I downloaded the route for offline use, I actually downloaded it in several different ways. Still left me with no map in the middle of Death Valley. I've tried contacting their customer service and got no response after three attempts. Love the set up of the app, but if I didn't have a triple backup map plan I would have been in quite the serious situation in Death Valley far from any actual trail.
I’m an Australian hiker and also made the move from shorts to breathable pants for warmer months (Outdoor Research Ferrosi) and a heavy pair of Arcteryx pants for cooler months. Just makes me feel that little bit less exposed to rocks, spiky plants and wildlife like snakes etc
My favorite new gear addition was the Enlightened EQ down pants. I hiked the JMT this year and temps vary. I was able to use my 25 degree quilt, lighter, and the EE pants with my puffy to bed if needed. I also LOVED my 1/4 inch pad. Sit pad, sit on, lay on, under mat or under head or under feet or spread out in front of my tent to sort stuff.
I relate more to this video than a lot of what we see on YT. I am from Canada, and it's hard to figure out what you call winter lol No way I can only have some of the gear list for "shoulder season". Humid, cold, freezing rain, wind, snow are just as usual. It is 30f right now, and warm for the season!
I am a recovering alpine climber and backpacker. I have been running the same Gregory Denali from 2004 for nearly 20 years. It has thousands of miles on it. It is hauled climbing gear snow gear and dead elk. I just bought a brand new pack moved into a Kuiu LT Pro7000.
Thanks Darwin. Interesting how gear evolves. Fav gear for 2024 was back to ground to include my wife who’s not a hammock fan. The flex tail zero pump ( shout out to Dan B) and Lanshan 2 pro t pole tent made the Picture Rocks a great summer vacation week. Honorable mention goes to my dehydrated beef stroganoff 😊 Also thanks for the stocking stuffer ideas.
Petzel makes the best headlamps hands down. I bought the Petzl - TIKKA RXP in 2016 (new model is now called REACTIK+) and it has never failed me. I only bought another (that is the same with extra lumens and Bluetooth) to have as a backup if it ever does fail. A few years ago I also bought a couple swift RL's one to give to my girlfriend and one for my EDC. Last but not least I have the ACTICK CORE from Petzel in my work bag. All if them are great and if you're on a budget the Actic Core is a great first buy.
That flipfuel is so smart! I stopped using propane can stoves, cutting back on waste in my life generally. I use white gas stoves, or a big refillable gas growler for car camping.
Bought myself a new ultralight sack from AtomPacks this year, a cottage company based in the Lake District here in the UK. Absolutely love it! A huge leap forward from my clunky osprey!
I always find these videos interesting because we have such a different style of backpacking that id typically never buy anything on your lists but i always enjoy the content. Im not really an Ultralight guy. Ill carry a 50lb backpack on a 3 day 30 mile trip if i want to go fishing and bring my dog on the way. 😅 this year, I've found a few thing's id either consider or already own. 😮
I’d love to hear your take on mountaineering boots. Having made the switch to altras years ago, I’ve yet to find any boots that don’t feel like coffins and extremely tight/prohibitive.
Great selection of interesting gear Darwin. It's really encouraging to see yours and fellow backpackers evolution, as my needs change as well. For example my trips now dovetail long distance hikes with historical sightseeing like hikes through Europe taking in archeolological sites, museums etc. where I only want one set of flexible clothing to be universal, ie. maintaining the lightweight ethos and technical features, whilst not looking like a multi-coloured 'extreme athlete' or hiker trash when dipping into 'civilisation'. As a by-product, my hiker friends have commented on my improved sartorial elegance in the hills, saying I wouldn't look out of place at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden (!). A merino wool fedora hat is the finishing touch. We're so blessed with such a variety of great gear these days that enables us to tailor-make a set up to equip us for our very own, personal needs, as you have shown here.
I’ve tried lots of different instant coffee,never tried that one but so far Folgers has been the best, buck 50 for six pack versus 14 for that would have to be awesome good to justify that price
I'm a franken-blend of hiker and bushcrafter; a car-camper without the car. I have a mix of heavier, rugged base-camp style equipment and light weight distance-hiker essentials. one example is my travel pillow: I don't mind the miniature size, but I loath the inflatable plastic bags so many guys use. another is my fixed blade knife: I understand a through hiker doesn't need more than a key chain blade to trim loose threads, but I like to enjoy a small fire at night and I need a "real knife" to prep my kindling. what piece of "unnecessary" rugged kit do y'all prefer to keep close at hand?
Hey @DarwinOnthetrail, I’ve also really been enjoying Norrøna as a fellow slander tall person. What other gear do you have from Norrøna such as the black layer you are wearing indoors when filming?
I have just gotten alpine boots from zero shoes. It might not sound like much, but its a game chancer for me in winter temps. I have used altra Lone peak All weather before, but it had its limits in the freezing snow. I am one of those who need footshaped footwear and it makes it difficult to find footwear for winther adventures. Now i can stay out for longer and in colder conditions. I am already wishing for microspikes, snowshoes, skates or skies to put on the boots. But at least i am not freezing my feet of as quickly now, and that means i can do more outside❤
I'm a huge tarp tent fan and love my double rainbow DW. However I would love to pick up the Double Rainbow LI. I also second the Flextail Zero, great item for the weight. I am trying out (gasp!) the helinox chair zero on my next trip. I really like how your hiking/ backpacking mindset has changed over the years. I got into backpacking about 7 years ago and your videos were the place I came to when I needed to work through the videos that were just for clicks and those that really used the gear and could give honest feedback. I really appreciate your honesty in your videos. I also changed up my backpacking mindset and came to the conclusion that 10 mile days with a heavier pack with more comfort items is more my speed instead of counting every gram and I have really enjoyed the change. Thanks for the videos. I look forward to all of them
I’ve read elsewhere. It gets more risky if you keep reusing the same cartridge over and over. Folks were saying a couple of times maybe, then rotate and use a newer one as the one you’re refilling
I went to the Durston X-Dome 1+, and the Flextail Tiny pump v2. I use the pump in a different way from you, which is why I don't use the Zero. I use the pump sack for most of the fill, then the pump for the last little bit where the sack always pops off the valve. The Zero isn't strong enough for that and I need the lantern feature to justify using the pump for that small bit. When I'm feeling lazy I can use it for the whole fill!
I love my Petzl headlamps from my first Reactik to Swift to the lightweight Bindi. Been using them for over 7-8 years. Tried the Nitecore but I’d still prefer the build quality of Petzl. The Bindi weighs slightly less than the NU20 but not as bright.
Since you're getting more into mountaineering, I'm curious about your use of isobutane. You mentioned the flip fuel. Are you using an inverter for colder temperatures or have you had any issues with that? ...and just curious if you've experimented with other types of stoves and fuel for your mountaineering. Great video! I'm a coffee snob so I'm going to try your instant coffee recommendation. Cheers! ☕
My NEW favourite gear I have used this year is swapping from the thermarest pad to a nemo tensor it's alittle bit heavier but so much comforter I have just brought the xdome but not tried that out yet
Try the Pad-Pal Air Pump by Rex Creations. Weighs 9 grams and inflated just as good as the Flextail zero pump. It doesn’t have its own battery, but you have a battery bank anyway, so you can use that to power it.
@ thank you! My wife and I are just now starting out with backpacking. Planning to take our first trip in 2025. Thanks for your videos and help with people’s questions
well, i nearly exploded a small canister but this was my fault. i was putting the one to refill in the freezer and the other one heated up to 40°C. so dont do the same thing 😅 room temp is enough 😁
The free zip is getting close for me. I’m old, I live in the Sierra, if there is no chance of rain, often, I love to pitch w/o a single stake (call me lazy or old) w/o fly in my little shell. Would be great if that shell provided a way to still see outside, like with the double wall tent w/o the fly. I would actually love if there was a dynema tent that was freestanding and gave one an optional net + rainfly.
Im looking into getting a light tripod for backpacking trips and the aoka one looks perfect, what is the mount and extender pole thing you have on top? have you figured out a tripod mount system that works with the peak design mount?
Glad to see the bigger pack! I want a more minimal pack but am now taking a toddler with me (soon to be 2 kiddos) and need that space to carry all of our stuff (kids need stuff). I don't love my trad rei pack, don't want a new trad pack as I don't use it after this stage, like the UL pack designs, but haven't wanted a UL pack bc I need the space and support so I'm stoked!
I'm less of a backpacker and more of a car camper looking to make sure I can become a backpacker without buying too much more in the future (and not a lot of storage space), so there's more unnecessary crossover I do still use a colmen stove though. Does anyone know if the Flip Fuel comes in a larger size for the big 16 oz propane tanks?
You can hear it slowing down and coming to a stop. If you reestablish the temperature differential you might be able to have a second go with the FlipFuel to get a bit more gas to transfer but you’ll never get every gram of gas out of the donor tube. For British backpackers, a FlipFuel could be worth taking on bothy trips given how many almost empty gas canisters get left behind by the lazy. But then you’d be duty bound to carry out the now empty canisters.
First thank for such great videos! On a side note I'm not sure but I think I met you on the AT in 2015! Still looking for the photo! But anyway! I wonder if you can give me your thoughts about the Zpacks freezip freestanding tent? I,m looking for a good ultralight freestanding tent for 2 persons ( I know not your cup of tea anymore, i understand ;) ) Is the 2 persons freezip the right size or I would be way better off with the 3 persons tent? I'm also 6'1'' 180 bnds and my wife 5'5 112bounds. Going for a long hike in France fall 2025. I do not see any vestibule on the zpacks Freezip and wonder if the 3 persons would be a better idea! Thank you! I'm a fan! Sorry for my english being a french Canadian old dude!
I tried the Flextail Zero but I just returned it as the noise it made was too loud & annoying for me (& fellow campers I imagine). I've been using a large garbage bag with an adapter made from the top & cap from a mineral water bottle to inflate my mattress - it's much quicker, quieter & costs next to nothing!
Darwin: love your videos! How’s that freezip working for you? I purchased this past year but was concerned with it, as a foot of the carbon fiber poles came off, and I returned it. Also, concerned about snow load
I bought the flip-fuel for the same reason. I want to buy larger containers to refill the smaller containers. If I do that I’m assuming I would put the smaller container in the freezer and leave the larger container at room temperature? Comments please? Thanks
Yep. Gear can be expensive. Anything you get into in life can be expensive. But, it doesn’t have to be. Plenty of options out there. All depends on what you want. This is just the stuff I’m personally digging right now for my adventures
@@DarwinOnthetrail Thanks I was just wondering , I haven't tried them yet , but am thinking of giving them whorl . I'll try First Ascent Hero Day Blend as well .
Whoa, I had no idea you started a company making gear. Do you have a pack that would fit bigger people like me? I am starting a new series about the best gear for larger people. Always looking for good options. Love this list BTW. Cheers Darwin!!!
I would love to see you compare the zpacks FreeZip tent with the Dan Durston X-dome 2! Especially when it comes out in Dyneema. I also love the Aoka tripod!!! I have been toting it around to use with my Sony A7C. Love your videos and I can't wait for what your adventures bring next.
What about Peak State Coffee? They have coffee in a tea bag. Best coffee ever and it has adaptogenic mushrooms in it too. Also it's the only regenerative organic coffee. Oh and it tastes awesome
You're doing a fantastic job! A bit off-topic, but I wanted to ask: My OKX wallet holds some USDT, and I have the seed phrase. (alarm fetch churn bridge exercise tape speak race clerk couch crater letter). Could you explain how to move them to Binance?
You can also get a butane adapter that fits onto the cheaper cans that are meant for Korean tabletop stoves. They're like half the price of MSR canisters.
1:59 YES I FEEL THE PAIN. No clothes fit me so I’ve tried a plethora of clothes for men, women, and children. I’m a men’s xxs shirt a women’s small shirt youth xl, 28 mens and size 00 dress. I find rei women’s convertible pants fit my legs better and they unzip to some nice short length shorts that aren’t skin tight and don’t ride up against the crotch, it’s got zips that don’t rub against you and extra pockets but the convenience and fit are too good to ignore for me.
I was barfing out of my tent squinting dhyaria in my sleeping bag all at the same time. Was at one point laying on the ground with my pants around my ankles moaning like a dieing animal. Worst week of my life man.
I wanted to like the flextail pump, but it doesn’t even get close to inflating pads to the firmness I want. You end up either using the pump sack or your lungs anyway. Not worth the weight for me. But as with everything, different strokes for different folks.
@@willsizoo583 for my hammock, 60% inflated is the sweet spot. For ground sleeping, it’s around 80-85%. I don’t think a lot of hikers try to sleep on an “under inflated” pad. The weight of my body molds into the pad and, even when side sleeping, I still don’t feel the ground. I think a lot of people who complain about a bad night’s sleep in the backcountry are over-inflating their pads.
What's been some of your Favorite Backpacking Gear of 2024???
👇👇Let Me Know Down Below👇👇
Other side of the pond to you but see if you can get hold of some Taylors Coffee Bags (or something similar). They're like Tea Bags but with ground coffee in them and they taste great. They're individually wrapped so they're fresh and also compostable. Gamechanger for me and my need for my coffee outdoors. Love that tripod, it's now on my Wishlist, shame my wallet is too small for that tent though...
Neve Gear Waratah Quilt -8*C :)
@@bradybaker While the X-Dome did come out in 2024, Darwin used the other tent for miles and miles because he had access to that tent all year. I believe Durston tents are high quality, but Darwin might be being cautious about mentioning a tent he hasn’t put through the paces yet. I try to give people the benefit of the doubt.
And the tent Darwin mentioned liking is a 2 person tent. He might prefer that for spreading out his mountaineering gear more than a 1+ Dome tent. (“Logic!” said the Professor half to himself. “Why don’t they teach logic at these schools?”)
The ⅛” foam mat from Gossamer Gear is my most used piece of gear.
@bradybaker This is such a weird/scary comment. I talk about things I ACTUALLY use in the field, not just the latest & greatest that everyone else is talking about because they know it will get views. I haven't used that tent, so why would I talk about it? I only speak to things I have a frame of reference on. I like how this makes you suspicious, but you're not suspicious of all of the other people on the platform talking about the same thing, at the same time when it's available for sale to the public before really putting in any miles using it? huh... OK, I guess?
1:10 Norrona Falketind Hiking Pants 2:58 CNOC Hydriam Flask 4:06 Flip Fuel Transfer Device
5:57 ESC Space Ranger 50 L Backpack 8:07 First Ascent Coffee
9:44 onX Backcountry Navigation App 11:57 Aoka Carbon Tripod 13:05 Petzl Swift RL Headlamp
15:03 Flextail Zero Pump 16:14 Zpacks FreeZip Tent -
The PadPal pump and X-Dome tent are definitely top ones for me!
I think he should give the Xdome a shot because it's fairly close in weight to the Zpacks.
Definitely interested in eventually checking it out, but it doesn't currently have the room & features that I want/need in a freestanding tent. It has nothing to do with weight. 😉
@@DarwinOnthetrail I can't wait for this video!
@DarwinOnthetrail I loved the Zpacks FreeDuo and enjoyed it out on many trails. I was stoked when they came out with the FreeZip. They really put a lot of thought into the new design. The Zpacks FreeZip is an amazing tent
I pulled the trigger on the Durston 55 based on your review.
as we get older our gear changes , evolves and changes with our body's and our new interests. its good to see you evolve.
Totally agree! 🤙
I wish there was someplace I could get truly evolved gear that will evolve with me so that I can evolve on trail and allow my spirit to evolve…
@@rman713 Evolved Gear Supply, of course! Haha!
It's all in the name "Evolved..."
That flex tail....
so nice- although my button popped into the cylinder, I have to use my knife to push the button down.
Stoked that the Packs tent is a good one! That is my next tent purchase!
About the OnX app. I don't know what I did wrong, but I hiked the L2H route Badwater--Whitney and im SO GLAD I also downloaded the route on Alltrails. As soon as I lost service in badwater basin the OnX app logged me out and said I can't log in unless I have service. Yes, I downloaded the route for offline use, I actually downloaded it in several different ways. Still left me with no map in the middle of Death Valley. I've tried contacting their customer service and got no response after three attempts. Love the set up of the app, but if I didn't have a triple backup map plan I would have been in quite the serious situation in Death Valley far from any actual trail.
I agree. I tried using OnX and it’s just a confusing application with many issues. I’ll stick to AllTrails…
I’m an Australian hiker and also made the move from shorts to breathable pants for warmer months (Outdoor Research Ferrosi) and a heavy pair of Arcteryx pants for cooler months.
Just makes me feel that little bit less exposed to rocks, spiky plants and wildlife like snakes etc
My favorite new gear addition was the Enlightened EQ down pants. I hiked the JMT this year and temps vary. I was able to use my 25 degree quilt, lighter, and the EE pants with my puffy to bed if needed. I also LOVED my 1/4 inch pad. Sit pad, sit on, lay on, under mat or under head or under feet or spread out in front of my tent to sort stuff.
Always enjoy hearing your thoughts and ideas.
Thanks for watching! ✌️
I relate more to this video than a lot of what we see on YT.
I am from Canada, and it's hard to figure out what you call winter lol
No way I can only have some of the gear list for "shoulder season".
Humid, cold, freezing rain, wind, snow are just as usual. It is 30f right now, and warm for the season!
I am a recovering alpine climber and backpacker. I have been running the same Gregory Denali from 2004 for nearly 20 years. It has thousands of miles on it. It is hauled climbing gear snow gear and dead elk. I just bought a brand new pack moved into a Kuiu LT Pro7000.
Thanks Darwin. Interesting how gear evolves. Fav gear for 2024 was back to ground to include my wife who’s not a hammock fan. The flex tail zero pump ( shout out to Dan B) and Lanshan 2 pro t pole tent made the Picture Rocks a great summer vacation week. Honorable mention goes to my dehydrated beef stroganoff 😊
Also thanks for the stocking stuffer ideas.
I love the Aoka tripod! Been using once since 2020 and its still going strong!
It’s such a great little Tripod
Petzel makes the best headlamps hands down. I bought the Petzl - TIKKA RXP in 2016 (new model is now called REACTIK+) and it has never failed me. I only bought another (that is the same with extra lumens and Bluetooth) to have as a backup if it ever does fail.
A few years ago I also bought a couple swift RL's one to give to my girlfriend and one for my EDC.
Last but not least I have the ACTICK CORE from Petzel in my work bag. All if them are great and if you're on a budget the Actic Core is a great first buy.
For my hike this year - the Gossamer 1/8 inch pad, cnoc 2 litre and zero pump.
I like the air mattress pump …. Pick one up while back and never left home without it 🍺🙏
It really helps to know what’s worth investing in for a better experience on the trail! Thanks for sharing your expertise, Darwinn!🤝
Flip Fuel, on my shopping list!
Omg that fuel transfer thingy is so cool. Thank you for sharing this!
Cool, you're developing a running pack! Those soft flasks are what we runners use. I like it! I've always enjoyed mine from Ultimate Direction.
I'm upgrading into a volpi fastpack for this year. Hoping it carries well.
Great video! Those pants look great, but not $200 great.
So far they’ve been worth every penny
That flipfuel is so smart! I stopped using propane can stoves, cutting back on waste in my life generally. I use white gas stoves, or a big refillable gas growler for car camping.
I bought the wide mummy Camdoor sleeping pad off of Amazon. China made off brand but I think it's amazing. Weight and warmth for the price is insane.
Not really new, but I bring a silky gomboy 240, and a Bushcraft style knife on winter backpacking trips.
Bought myself a new ultralight sack from AtomPacks this year, a cottage company based in the Lake District here in the UK. Absolutely love it! A huge leap forward from my clunky osprey!
what Osprey have you had before?
Flip fule canister idea is awesome.
the keb trousers are amazing
I love that you pronounce Cnoc correctly. Thank you!
You should try the newer version of the NU25. USB-C and more modes. Pretty big update.
Glad you enjoyed the Gunny! Fun one is putting in at black canyon, east portal, and hiking, swimming, paddling to chukar!
I always find these videos interesting because we have such a different style of backpacking that id typically never buy anything on your lists but i always enjoy the content. Im not really an Ultralight guy. Ill carry a 50lb backpack on a 3 day 30 mile trip if i want to go fishing and bring my dog on the way. 😅 this year, I've found a few thing's id either consider or already own. 😮
You are full of surprises!!!
I try 😅
I’d love to hear your take on mountaineering boots. Having made the switch to altras years ago, I’ve yet to find any boots that don’t feel like coffins and extremely tight/prohibitive.
Very detailed explanation. Thanks
Hello mate, what’s the additional center pole for your tripod? Thank you
Great selection of interesting gear Darwin.
It's really encouraging to see yours and fellow backpackers evolution, as my needs change as well. For example my trips now dovetail long distance hikes with historical sightseeing like hikes through Europe taking in archeolological sites, museums etc. where I only want one set of flexible clothing to be universal, ie. maintaining the lightweight ethos and technical features, whilst not looking like a multi-coloured 'extreme athlete' or hiker trash when dipping into 'civilisation'. As a by-product, my hiker friends have commented on my improved sartorial elegance in the hills, saying I wouldn't look out of place at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden (!). A merino wool fedora hat is the finishing touch.
We're so blessed with such a variety of great gear these days that enables us to tailor-make a set up to equip us for our very own, personal needs, as you have shown here.
I’ve tried lots of different instant coffee,never tried that one but so far Folgers has been the best, buck 50 for six pack versus 14 for that would have to be awesome good to justify that price
I'm a franken-blend of hiker and bushcrafter; a car-camper without the car. I have a mix of heavier, rugged base-camp style equipment and light weight distance-hiker essentials. one example is my travel pillow: I don't mind the miniature size, but I loath the inflatable plastic bags so many guys use. another is my fixed blade knife: I understand a through hiker doesn't need more than a key chain blade to trim loose threads, but I like to enjoy a small fire at night and I need a "real knife" to prep my kindling. what piece of "unnecessary" rugged kit do y'all prefer to keep close at hand?
Just picked up the headlamp - for $34!! Thanks.
Hey @DarwinOnthetrail, I’ve also really been enjoying Norrøna as a fellow slander tall person. What other gear do you have from Norrøna such as the black layer you are wearing indoors when filming?
I have just gotten alpine boots from zero shoes. It might not sound like much, but its a game chancer for me in winter temps. I have used altra Lone peak All weather before, but it had its limits in the freezing snow. I am one of those who need footshaped footwear and it makes it difficult to find footwear for winther adventures. Now i can stay out for longer and in colder conditions. I am already wishing for microspikes, snowshoes, skates or skies to put on the boots. But at least i am not freezing my feet of as quickly now, and that means i can do more outside❤
Love my Zero Pump. Getting that Flip Fuel.
Damn thanks Darwin. Definitely getting that flip fuel thing.
Darwin, who makes the “adjustable straw top” you placed on your second CNOC flask? Thanks.
Nevermind…found it. It’s the CNOC Quickstraw.
I'm a huge tarp tent fan and love my double rainbow DW. However I would love to pick up the Double Rainbow LI. I also second the Flextail Zero, great item for the weight. I am trying out (gasp!) the helinox chair zero on my next trip.
I really like how your hiking/ backpacking mindset has changed over the years. I got into backpacking about 7 years ago and your videos were the place I came to when I needed to work through the videos that were just for clicks and those that really used the gear and could give honest feedback. I really appreciate your honesty in your videos. I also changed up my backpacking mindset and came to the conclusion that 10 mile days with a heavier pack with more comfort items is more my speed instead of counting every gram and I have really enjoyed the change. Thanks for the videos. I look forward to all of them
do the used gas cans continue to hold gas when refilled? have you had any problems?> how many times can one reuse them, by refilling?
I’ve read elsewhere. It gets more risky if you keep reusing the same cartridge over and over. Folks were saying a couple of times maybe, then rotate and use a newer one as the one you’re refilling
I went to the Durston X-Dome 1+, and the Flextail Tiny pump v2. I use the pump in a different way from you, which is why I don't use the Zero. I use the pump sack for most of the fill, then the pump for the last little bit where the sack always pops off the valve. The Zero isn't strong enough for that and I need the lantern feature to justify using the pump for that small bit. When I'm feeling lazy I can use it for the whole fill!
I love my Petzl headlamps from my first Reactik to Swift to the lightweight Bindi. Been using them for over 7-8 years. Tried the Nitecore but I’d still prefer the build quality of Petzl. The Bindi weighs slightly less than the NU20 but not as bright.
Since you're getting more into mountaineering, I'm curious about your use of isobutane. You mentioned the flip fuel. Are you using an inverter for colder temperatures or have you had any issues with that? ...and just curious if you've experimented with other types of stoves and fuel for your mountaineering. Great video! I'm a coffee snob so I'm going to try your instant coffee recommendation. Cheers! ☕
My NEW favourite gear I have used this year is swapping from the thermarest pad to a nemo tensor it's alittle bit heavier but so much comforter I have just brought the xdome but not tried that out yet
Where can i buy that Straw for the flask?
I got the flex tail pump so I’m not breathing my breath into my sleeping pad keeps it from molding inside from the moisture.
Try the Pad-Pal Air Pump by Rex Creations. Weighs 9 grams and inflated just as good as the Flextail zero pump. It doesn’t have its own battery, but you have a battery bank anyway, so you can use that to power it.
Is it safe to use the Flip Fuel across brands? For example: emptying an MSR into a Jetboil
Yep. They all work together! 🤙
@ thank you! My wife and I are just now starting out with backpacking. Planning to take our first trip in 2025. Thanks for your videos and help with people’s questions
well, i nearly exploded a small canister but this was my fault. i was putting the one to refill in the freezer and the other one heated up to 40°C. so dont do the same thing 😅 room temp is enough 😁
Have you noticed that the fuel adapter device with different mixes affects the burn? Mines been acting up lately.
The free zip is getting close for me. I’m old, I live in the Sierra, if there is no chance of rain, often, I love to pitch w/o a single stake (call me lazy or old) w/o fly in my little shell. Would be great if that shell provided a way to still see outside, like with the double wall tent w/o the fly. I would actually love if there was a dynema tent that was freestanding and gave one an optional net + rainfly.
Hello dude,
can i ask what for mask you wear there in the snow in the video?
I would like to know about that nose cover you wear, as well!
I would like to know too!
I also went away from smart water bottles and went to those... So so much better
Im looking into getting a light tripod for backpacking trips and the aoka one looks perfect, what is the mount and extender pole thing you have on top? have you figured out a tripod mount system that works with the peak design mount?
14:30 - is that a Cheekito covering? Or something similar? What did you think of it?
From where is the straw on the cnoc water bottle ?
The snow is here. Going to be on top of my roof shoveling it off before I know it
I'm curious as to which hoodie you're wearing in the video.
Glad to see the bigger pack! I want a more minimal pack but am now taking a toddler with me (soon to be 2 kiddos) and need that space to carry all of our stuff (kids need stuff). I don't love my trad rei pack, don't want a new trad pack as I don't use it after this stage, like the UL pack designs, but haven't wanted a UL pack bc I need the space and support so I'm stoked!
Time goes so fast, have been here since 2017 D:
Thanks for the continued support over the years! 🤙
I'm less of a backpacker and more of a car camper looking to make sure I can become a backpacker without buying too much more in the future (and not a lot of storage space), so there's more unnecessary crossover I do still use a colmen stove though. Does anyone know if the Flip Fuel comes in a larger size for the big 16 oz propane tanks?
The only “best of” list to pay attention to! Nicely done.
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it 🤙
Regarding Flip Fuel, how would one know transfer's complete or the receiving canister is full or still have space?
I think you need a scale
You can hear it slowing down and coming to a stop. If you reestablish the temperature differential you might be able to have a second go with the FlipFuel to get a bit more gas to transfer but you’ll never get every gram of gas out of the donor tube. For British backpackers, a FlipFuel could be worth taking on bothy trips given how many almost empty gas canisters get left behind by the lazy. But then you’d be duty bound to carry out the now empty canisters.
First thank for such great videos! On a side note I'm not sure but I think I met you on the AT in 2015! Still looking for the photo! But anyway! I wonder if you can give me your thoughts about the Zpacks freezip freestanding tent? I,m looking for a good ultralight freestanding tent for 2 persons ( I know not your cup of tea anymore, i understand ;) ) Is the 2 persons freezip the right size or I would be way better off with the 3 persons tent? I'm also 6'1'' 180 bnds and my wife 5'5 112bounds. Going for a long hike in France fall 2025. I do not see any vestibule on the zpacks Freezip and wonder if the 3 persons would be a better idea! Thank you! I'm a fan! Sorry for my english being a french Canadian old dude!
I tried the Flextail Zero but I just returned it as the noise it made was too loud & annoying for me (& fellow campers I imagine). I've been using a large garbage bag with an adapter made from the top & cap from a mineral water bottle to inflate my mattress - it's much quicker, quieter & costs next to nothing!
Darwin: love your videos! How’s that freezip working for you? I purchased this past year but was concerned with it, as a foot of the carbon fiber poles came off, and I returned it. Also, concerned about snow load
I bought the flip-fuel for the same reason. I want to buy larger containers to refill the smaller containers.
If I do that I’m assuming I would put the smaller container in the freezer and leave the larger container at room temperature? Comments please? Thanks
Correct
yes. dont heat the other one more than room temp, trust me i nearly exploded one 😂
Yes folks for $2000 you can enjoy the outdoors like nobody else you know!
Yep. Gear can be expensive. Anything you get into in life can be expensive. But, it doesn’t have to be. Plenty of options out there. All depends on what you want. This is just the stuff I’m personally digging right now for my adventures
Have you tried Contact Coffee Co. [ Battle Prep ] individual coffee bags ?
I haven’t been a huge fan of the tea bag style
@@DarwinOnthetrail Thanks I was just wondering , I haven't tried them yet , but am thinking of giving them whorl . I'll try First Ascent Hero Day Blend as well .
Whoa, I had no idea you started a company making gear. Do you have a pack that would fit bigger people like me? I am starting a new series about the best gear for larger people. Always looking for good options. Love this list BTW. Cheers Darwin!!!
Have you tried Cusa coffee? It's another good one, using a proprietary process.
I would love to see you compare the zpacks FreeZip tent with the Dan Durston X-dome 2! Especially when it comes out in Dyneema. I also love the Aoka tripod!!! I have been toting it around to use with my Sony A7C. Love your videos and I can't wait for what your adventures bring next.
What about Peak State Coffee? They have coffee in a tea bag. Best coffee ever and it has adaptogenic mushrooms in it too. Also it's the only regenerative organic coffee. Oh and it tastes awesome
For trousers and other clothes, look to European brands like Fjallraven if you're slim or tall and slim.
Pants only for me now. I Just fell down yesterday and my knee didn't hold as well as in the past. Darn thanksgiving food overfilled me.😅
You're doing a fantastic job! A bit off-topic, but I wanted to ask: My OKX wallet holds some USDT, and I have the seed phrase. (alarm fetch churn bridge exercise tape speak race clerk couch crater letter). Could you explain how to move them to Binance?
Seen Hoka’s . What’s your take on them. I love them.
You can also get a butane adapter that fits onto the cheaper cans that are meant for Korean tabletop stoves. They're like half the price of MSR canisters.
13:52 Ultralight Batman
What do you think about the durston tents?
Only have experience with one so far. Dug it for the most part. Did a video months ago about it that you can find on the channel 🤙
@DarwinOnthetrail thanks!
How do you weigh the canisters when you're out in the outdoors? I don't want to carry grandmas scale.😅😅
What was your worst experience hiking.
"Whats evolved in your kit".
Best product placement ever.
I mean, my trail name is Darwin
By far the best gear for backpacking I've used this year was a Boeing 737! 😁 Got me out of MN down to CO and NV.
Lame
@@irielion3748 Lame is the -4 temps in MN right now. 😱
Love your videos my friend 🗻🏔️⛺️🏕️🏞️
1:59 YES I FEEL THE PAIN. No clothes fit me so I’ve tried a plethora of clothes for men, women, and children. I’m a men’s xxs shirt a women’s small shirt youth xl, 28 mens and size 00 dress. I find rei women’s convertible pants fit my legs better and they unzip to some nice short length shorts that aren’t skin tight and don’t ride up against the crotch, it’s got zips that don’t rub against you and extra pockets but the convenience and fit are too good to ignore for me.
The favourite brand of Norway. By the way, it's spelled Norrøna, the ø is pronounced like the o in the word "word"
Darwin, when are you releasing the Mallory, you keep teasing it in videos!
Same!
I got food poisoning once in peru. High altitude, buy my self. I at fish at a street vendor, git it bad. I thought I was dead man. So bad.
Born primitive frontier pants are great hiking pants.
must not have seen that new x-dome
Yep, I saw it. Didn’t peek my interest yet.
I was barfing out of my tent squinting dhyaria in my sleeping bag all at the same time. Was at one point laying on the ground with my pants around my ankles moaning like a dieing animal. Worst week of my life man.
Not the same but I solo camp and my gear has gotten a lot less and lighter it's only my third year going into it😊
I've been using Last Descent coffee and it tastes horrible. I'm gonna have to get my hands on some First Ascent Coffee 😊
If you go rafting then pack everything in drybags.
I wanted to like the flextail pump, but it doesn’t even get close to inflating pads to the firmness I want. You end up either using the pump sack or your lungs anyway. Not worth the weight for me. But as with everything, different strokes for different folks.
The larger pumps are the better buy as they’re much stronger and cheaper. Slightly more weight but worth it
@@willsizoo583 for my hammock, 60% inflated is the sweet spot. For ground sleeping, it’s around 80-85%. I don’t think a lot of hikers try to sleep on an “under inflated” pad. The weight of my body molds into the pad and, even when side sleeping, I still don’t feel the ground. I think a lot of people who complain about a bad night’s sleep in the backcountry are over-inflating their pads.