The Best & Worst Backpacking Gear Of 2022!

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  • Опубликовано: 28 янв 2025

Комментарии • 92

  • @CastawayHikes
    @CastawayHikes 2 года назад +15

    I could see the Grayl being useful for a short afternoon hike where you aren't going to be needing much water and wanting a very simple hydration setup, but it doesn't make a lot of sense if you're going to need to filter 1-2 liters at a time for a longer hike

    • @kribinsky
      @kribinsky 2 года назад +4

      That is my exact use for it. Quick hikes near questionable water sources.

    • @ktm9292
      @ktm9292 2 года назад +8

      Also great for overseas travel or trips in areas with not the best water quality (i.e., potential viruses) where you don't want to have to buy plastic bottles for.

    • @CalvertE98
      @CalvertE98 2 года назад +5

      It's actually quick and simple why not for longer 1-2 liters? It purifies as well so much better for safety than most filters

    • @giftedfox4748
      @giftedfox4748 Год назад

      It is a bit off that he would put the Grayl on the list of flops when he never really did a field test on it. From everything that I found on it shows it is very good but is heavy, bulky, and the lifespan on the filters are shorter. If he would have said something like that then I could go "you do have a point and that is why you use the other filter more" but no, just the fact that he feels like he wasted his money so it isn't a good choice.

    • @dcl97
      @dcl97 Год назад

      We used the Grayl on our PCT hike last year and it was great. What it really excels at is filtering a lot of water at a time. We ended up filtering water for other hikers a few times, particularly when the water was very unpalatable, the Grayl didn't make it perfect but it was drinkable. A bunch of groups we were leapfrogging all ended up getting norovirus from filtering out of a lake near Crabtree, we filtered from the same one and had no issues. It's definitely heavy, but was worth the peice of mind and better tasting water.

  • @billprice6458
    @billprice6458 2 года назад +4

    When my kids were that age was the greatest time of my life. Cherish it. It goes so fast.

  • @NOLERRT
    @NOLERRT 2 года назад +1

    Love your videos and love your honesty! keep it up

  • @neemancallender9092
    @neemancallender9092 2 года назад +7

    I have had the Snow Peak Litemax for years of solid reliable service
    Great simmering control
    Yes you need to use a windshield
    I have an ultralight titanium windshield that weighs nothing

    • @PDXborn
      @PDXborn Год назад

      2nd the great simmering. I've had mine for 12 years. Never let me down, but it does need to be shielded from the wind which is usually just on the other side of my backpack or a log/rocks. It's actually my go to stove in spring and fall or if I need to bring something I don't have to worry about failing when I'm deep in the woods but want a lightweight stove. I've used it in below freezing temps as well with no issues.

  • @semo7566
    @semo7566 2 года назад +2

    Tnx for the review. I use Sawyer with CNOC 100 percent of the time in PNW but it can't clear viruses for suspect water sources on my trips to other countries. I'm taking Grayl to Colombia. 3 years with the same CNOC using it as a gravity system

  • @happyfuntimereviews5600
    @happyfuntimereviews5600 2 года назад +2

    I’ve had my Cnoc Vecto for about 4 years now. It’s the old model without the tethered cap and slider.
    I’ve used it close to 100 nights on the trail.
    No issues.
    The Grayl is awesome for traveling, not so much for backpacking.
    I go back and forth between the Squeeze and the Hydroblu Versaflo. Can’t decide which one I like more. Both have their advantages. Just have to aggressively backflush either and the flow rate stays pretty decent.

  • @commentsonthetube14
    @commentsonthetube14 2 года назад +3

    I just use the cnoc vecto as a gravity filter and it doesn't develop leaks. I carry a 4 foot length of silicone hose and a water bottle adapter. Plus a 2 gram length of dyneema cord. Then I can hang the vecto on a tree or trekking pole and have it fill up a bottle while I chill. You can also blow into the tube to backflush the filter.

  • @hokudadog7637
    @hokudadog7637 2 года назад +4

    Thanks for the reviews! Good points. I must say, I disagree with your Grayl flop, it shouldn’t be on your worst gear list as it was your personal preference. Nothing wrong with the item! Grayl is great for a fast drink. I think it is just your habit to fall back to your Sawyer.

    • @garrettsaunders8458
      @garrettsaunders8458 2 года назад

      As with all gear it’s preference based, but yeah the grayl serves its purpose but just doesn’t fit the bill for most backpacking journeys. Great point to bring up though!

  • @CarlsonAdventures
    @CarlsonAdventures 2 года назад +1

    I have to agree with you on the Sawyer Squeeze. I tried another filter this year and after being disappointed in it I immediately went back to Sawyer. Great video man.

  • @26parma
    @26parma 2 года назад +5

    The Katadyn BeFree is now my filter of choice after this year. Year 2/next year will be the huge determining factor for the BeFree though...gotta have filters last multiple years.

  • @tylerorcutt6308
    @tylerorcutt6308 2 года назад +3

    I absolutely love the Grayl for backpacking in places with plenty of access to water sources. Filling the Grayl plus a Nalgene takes maybe a minute or two, no squeezing required. Pressing a bottle’s worth takes maybe 10-15 seconds, pour into your other bottle and repeat. I frequently fill my friends’ bottles at water stops because their filters are much slower.

    • @Dante07cid
      @Dante07cid 2 года назад +1

      I agree. And it is a more complete filter. In my area of the Midwest where farm runoff and nasty water in general exists, I need the extra filtration. I keep one in my truck for work and travel. Quick, simple and reliable. Totally disagree on Grayl being on the flop list.

    • @BigDawgCAM
      @BigDawgCAM 2 года назад +2

      Just a bit heavy for backpacking, and I would agree. I always reached for my Katadyn BeFree instead, meaning I never took my Grayl with me

    • @martinerhard8447
      @martinerhard8447 2 года назад

      Its just heavy and cumbersome....I am ising the trailaqua now which is like a bit upgraded sawyer squeeze.

  • @curtelverd
    @curtelverd 2 года назад +1

    Ditto on the Outdoor Vitals Altitude Sun Hoodie! It's a staple in every trip no matter the temp!

  • @kevinhansen2027
    @kevinhansen2027 2 года назад +2

    I couldn't agree more about the Quasar insulated pad. I've had several versions of Neoair, and the Nemo Tensor, my previous favorite. Save weight on other gear and treat yourself to an actual good night's sleep on the Quasar.

  • @tysonbrown249
    @tysonbrown249 Год назад

    I've used the Cnoc Vecto 2L for several years and never had a leak. I never put them on the ground. Maybe on a groundsheet, but never just on the ground. Do you think that pine needles may be getting it?

  • @Everydaybackpacker
    @Everydaybackpacker 2 года назад +2

    Great video! I absolutely love my western mountaineering gear! I own two, the alpinelite and the astralite top quilt. Definitely great products. I also heard that CNOC came out with a heavier duty version of the vecto bag.

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад +1

      Yeah, I will likely be getting a VersaLite at some point as well from WM! I had seen the CNOC came out with that after I had filmed this video. So I will likely be doing a follow up at some point.

    • @kee7678
      @kee7678 2 года назад

      @@BackcountryExposure I ended up with the Kuiu 15 degree bag..Wider shoulder area and their 850 down is quixdown. hydrophobic treatment and I loved my W.Mount alpinlite but..my new Kuiu bag is truly amazing.

  • @the_average_backpacker
    @the_average_backpacker 2 года назад

    Glad to see the Sawyer get a shout-out. I feel like it's gone under the radar and under-appreciated for a bit. It's great to have reliable water filtering that weighs practically nothing.

  • @anythingbutmyrealnamegoogl9615
    @anythingbutmyrealnamegoogl9615 2 года назад +2

    Hey thanks for covering some of this stuff, saves me from anymore expensive mistakes. I’m curious about the Western Mountaineering bag you got if you don’t mind answering a question. I’m in between on the ultralight and the alpinelite and the deciding factor is the chest width. I’m a pretty small guy, wrapping a tape around my arms barely at put me at 48”. The ultralight is 59” at the widest and I almost think It’d work for me on my side. Haven’t found anywhere within 100 miles to try it unfortunately so online is my best and cheapest option. I’m just curious if the ultralight was too constricting for you? Thanks again.

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад +1

      Good question. I love the UltraLite and for me it's just the right size. My chest measurement is 39", and for reference I am 5'9", 165lbs. If you're at 48" for your chest, then I'd probably steer toward the AlpineLite over the UltraLite. If you were to measure around your shoulders/chest you might be pretty close to the 59" width. Those are just my thoughts and experience.

  • @jays7318
    @jays7318 2 года назад +1

    Thank you! But I and my friends never had pinholes in our CNOCs. It's great for use for a gravity filter system with my VersaFlow filter, so I never squeeze it... maybe that's why I don't get pin holes

  • @browsman2328
    @browsman2328 2 года назад

    I agree with you on the MSR Windburner. I bought one one sale for $127 about 4 months ago and it has become my go to stove. Yes it is expensive and heavier than other options but in the long run I think it is money well spent. How many times have you had to fuss around with windscreens or seek shelter from the wind with regular backpacking stoves? No worries with the Windburner, it is impervious to wind, just set it up and light it. Plus the Windburner is assembled in Seattle USA if the means anything to you.

  • @jadenm
    @jadenm 2 года назад +1

    Ive been considering the altitude sun hoodie. My main concern is wear and tear on the shoulders where my backpack shoulder straps would be. Have you had issues with that?

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад +1

      Hasn't been an issue for me. I can see on a thru hike where daily use for months on end would have a greater impact, but I've been very happy with the durability in relation to the type of fabric used. My expectation is for the hoodie to last a couple seasons of normal use and then may need to be replaced.

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад +1

      @@jadenm yes, 100% worth it. It’s one of my favorite layers ever.

  • @jeffpeters5347
    @jeffpeters5347 2 года назад

    How does the Nemo Quasar compares against the S2S Etherlight XT in terms of side-sleeper comfort?

  • @nabwong
    @nabwong 2 года назад +1

    I bought the Quasar and loved it. Then I began to see all the videos raving how good the Rapide is. I had to try it. Returned it a short while after. The quasar is waaaayyyyy more comfy and quieter than the Rapide.

  • @telluridecolorado8918
    @telluridecolorado8918 Год назад

    I bought a Western Mountaineering sleeping bag about 7 years ago. Truly the best sleeping bag I've ever had. (I also have a Mountain Hardware, that is very good bag.) The WM bag has held up to probably 300-400 nights camping. Amazing is all i can say! Think i paid $550.00, and it was worth every penny!

  • @dean_murray
    @dean_murray 2 года назад

    Checkout the kovea supalite titanium. Its a variation of the snowpeak stove. The burner head is different and seems to be a bit better in the wind. It's otherwise identical.

  • @ShaysOutdoorShenanigans
    @ShaysOutdoorShenanigans 2 года назад

    I loved my nemo dagger! i switched it out for a xmid 2p because of weight (im attempting a thru hike)but i kept it because its awesome!!

  • @mtadams2009
    @mtadams2009 2 года назад

    My daughter and I both have Western Mountaineering 20 UL sleeping bags and they are awesome. We have never been even a little cold in this bag. Ours are about ten years old and they have held up great. For distance hiking I use a quilt but did weekends in the Whites it’s always WM. Take care

  • @commentsonthetube14
    @commentsonthetube14 2 года назад +1

    And I use the grayl for international travel. It is kind of a waste of money for hiking though haha.

  • @andreasweber7828
    @andreasweber7828 2 года назад +2

    Im using the non-Osmo Dagger and everything you said sounds familiar to me. Don’t care if the Osmo comes a bit lighter. I’m happy to carry 1.5kg

  • @stevewright2241
    @stevewright2241 2 года назад +1

    I’ve got 2 WM sleeping bags and love both. You should give a Feathered Friends bag a try too. I love that bag too.

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад +1

      I’d love to try a FF bag!

    • @kee7678
      @kee7678 2 года назад

      @UCVyZtccA-oMchXHai-CJyPA Kuiu, West Mount and F.F. are by far the top 3 on the market. They're great.

  • @samprather5729
    @samprather5729 2 года назад

    I've personally been able to use both the Sawyer squeeze and the Grayl this is year and they both were great. Definitely felt more secure drinking from the Grayl, but the squeeze is so simple and easy to use. It was nice having a sturdy/durable bottle instead of a thin smart water bottle. Definitely want to get the new titanium ultralight version

  • @janefreeman995
    @janefreeman995 2 года назад

    I've had weak leaky thread problems with both of the cnoc bags I've tried. One day I had to take a hotel room off the trail because all of my water leaked out and there was no upcoming source as it was getting late. I've had no problems with the snowpeak stove and it's been fine in the wind.

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад

      I've got another video coming soon where I dig deeper into the Litemax, but my main issue is the fact that when I light it, the entire burner doesn't light. I have to take my lighter and light the side that didn't. I know several other people who have this issue with the Litemax too.

  • @SneakyCaleb
    @SneakyCaleb 2 года назад

    First like and comment to my favorite outdoor channel! I picked up that exact nemo dagger because of you and a lanshan pro. Yes the Nemo dagger is a pound heavier than some comparable but it’s more sturdy and better in high wind conditions from what I’ve seen. Very versatile tent. Honestly it’s probably the best two person tent ever made dare I say. It seems to take me a couple extra minutes to set it up vs my older other tents but it’s not bad. Very nice

  • @royalbrooks7163
    @royalbrooks7163 2 года назад

    What problems did you have with the Platypus QuickDraw filter???

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад

      My first one grew a bunch of mold, completely my fault. So I bought a new one, and the second one came from the factory with broken fibers in the inlet side. I’ve reached out to Platypus (Cascade Designs) twice for warranty and have had no reply from them. It’s been several months and with two attempts to get info/help and no reply I’m not super happy with that. I know it’s not an expensive item, but it’s the principle for me that I wanted to get info from them and got nothing.

  • @FrontlineLLC
    @FrontlineLLC 2 года назад

    Think I saw you tonight (Thanksgiving) at the Spotted Dog in Zion. Yes?
    Love your content. It has helped me a lot the past couple years…
    Bryan

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад

      Ha ha! Yeah that was me. You should have come said hi. Thanks for watching and supporting the channel! Hope you had a nice holiday!

    • @FrontlineLLC
      @FrontlineLLC 2 года назад

      @@BackcountryExposure Do you live in the area or on vacation?

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад

      @@FrontlineLLC I live in Utah County, so on vacation.

  • @HawkeyeOnaMission
    @HawkeyeOnaMission 2 года назад

    Nice video as always. SOLE has been a true life/game changer for many years to me.

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад

      I was always skeptical of insoles, cause I've never had foot problems, but silly me didn't consider how they would help with my IT band and hip pain. Glad to hear they've done well for you too.

    • @jonsanford2515
      @jonsanford2515 2 года назад

      I had good luck with Sole insoles. Am currently using Tread Labs. I like them equally.
      Tread Labs are a bit more expensive for the first pair, but you can replace just the cushioned footbed, and keep reusing the hard plastic heel cup/arch. After 2 or 3 pairs the Tread Labs become cheaper, and you generate less waste.

  • @LostAgainwithJim
    @LostAgainwithJim 2 года назад

    I loved my Altitude hoodie. I really need to order a replacement.

  • @RodneyClang
    @RodneyClang 2 года назад +1

    After switching to the Grayl I hope I never have to squeeze a bag through a sawyer again freezing fingers and so slow. Take it out once and see :)

    • @stevenhorwood1300
      @stevenhorwood1300 2 года назад

      I have a regular sawyer, A quick draw and a grayl as well as a ultraviolet light water treatment. I use my Grayl by-far for the most. Quicker to filter, and can filter and fill other bottles and I use it all the time traveling. Heavy yep, but for some reason it is my go to.

  • @silence087
    @silence087 Год назад

    Comparing the snow peak stove to the msr windburner seems like apples to oranges to me.

  • @MarkGoesHiking
    @MarkGoesHiking 2 года назад

    Good, honest list. I had the same experience with the Grayl. I wanted to like it, but never use it.

  • @JustinMcKinneyhiker
    @JustinMcKinneyhiker 2 года назад

    I couldn't agree more with your disappointment of the Cnoc Vecto. Mine sprung pin hole leaks everywhere. It's heavy, cumbersome to use, with the sliding lock bar at the top , and there are more reliable lighter water bags out there.

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад

      I’ve ordered their new Vecto X to see how things change and if it’s better for me.

  • @MeetMeOutside
    @MeetMeOutside 2 года назад

    Western Mountaineering is simply the best, very good investment.

  • @kevinstarski1598
    @kevinstarski1598 2 года назад

    Nemo needs to start making some single wall options.

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад +4

      I think the Hornet would be a much more compelling option if it was single wall. I prefer the double wall on the Dagger though.

    • @BigDawgCAM
      @BigDawgCAM 2 года назад +1

      @@BackcountryExposure Yeah! Then they could use the saved weight to add space and make it 20+ denier so it isn’t so darn fragile and cramped

  • @briargoatkilla
    @briargoatkilla 2 года назад

    Ive tried most of the alternatives and havent seen any real advantage over the sawyer bags.

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад +1

      I think the new material Sawyer is using on their bags is a nice update to the previous material that would easily burst seams. My issue with them is just the small opening, which the Vecto fixes. It's the real reason I love the vecto so much.

  • @yurrryurrr1463
    @yurrryurrr1463 2 года назад +3

    How can you trust the word of someone who says something isn’t good when he never even used it

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад +3

      The point that I was trying to make is the fact that I got excited about a piece of gear for my hiking and backpacking this year and I put it on the flop list because my intentions were for it to be used. But it misses the mark because it never seemed to fit into my gear system, and didn't get added because the function of other filters was more compelling than the Grayl. I didn't necessarily say that the performance of the Grayl was bad, rather the principle of money was spent, and it just sat on the shelf. To me that's a waste of money that could have been used on something else.

    • @zacharylaschober
      @zacharylaschober 2 года назад +1

      Probably cause the Grayl is a purifier over the various filters which function fine throughout the United States and will always have smaller pack size and faster flow rate. Have used a Grayl once and have otherwise kept in my home emergency kit, but if I travel abroad may bring out for shorter treks over a filter and uv pen. Fits a great niche.

  • @ethanwagner5564
    @ethanwagner5564 2 года назад

    I’ll buy that Grayl from you yaha

  • @TennesseeSlim
    @TennesseeSlim 2 года назад

    Hydrapak has your back with their life time warranty. Best in business

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад

      I do love the hydrapak stuff I've got. Too bad they don't have something with a 28mm thread... or at least I don't think they do.

    • @TennesseeSlim
      @TennesseeSlim 2 года назад

      @@BackcountryExposure they have the seeker bag with 28mm and the other for the befree. But I use their reservoir as a dirty water bag and inline the fiter. That way I have the easy fill end and a quick connect for the filter. They even have a quick connect 28mm bottom cap for the squeeze. The one it comes with is useless.

    • @TennesseeSlim
      @TennesseeSlim 2 года назад

      @@BackcountryExposure Justin outdoors uses their collapsible bottle to relive himself when it's cold.

  • @LMay64
    @LMay64 2 года назад

    I agree about loving the OV Altitude Hoodie. The only thing I wish OV had included, as a woman with long hair, is a hole for a pony tail when the hood is up. Its very similar to my OR sun hoody, but OR does have a pony tail hole. Still, I’d purchase the OV Altitude again.

  • @markjensen8247
    @markjensen8247 2 года назад

    Shame on you for flopping a product that you have never used. Can’t say I’ll be watching your videos again. SMH

    • @BackcountryExposure
      @BackcountryExposure  2 года назад

      I thought my reasoning was justified, but apparently not. Sorry it was such a disappointment for you.

  • @taterhater7419
    @taterhater7419 2 года назад +1

    i mean cmon, to say i love this super expensive gear, who cares. we all cant afford this. you really don't have to spend a fortune to go backpacking, don't let these people make you feel like you do. get some quality budget gear, it might not be "ultra lite" but it gets you out there enjoying the wilderness. i find it disingenuous that people try and hype expensive gear that they get for free.