Once you start to know how the more expensive clothes feel you can quickly sort through the racks of your local thrift store and find good quality threads.
Hands down the best hiking, wet wading ( fishing ) and all around comfortable men’s pants for the outdoors is the Wrangler ® Men’s Outdoor All Terrain Cargo Pant with UPF 50+ Protection from Walmart. For just $26 , these IMO are a great value and tough. I beat a pair of these up for two months fly fishing though the mountain western states. From crawling on my knees to bushwhacking, they only show minimal wear and couple stains. Granted, there are some great outdoor companies making quality gear BUT if you’re on a budget, don’t overlook some of the big box stores.
I have a pair and I really like the feel and durability - it's just a shame because I'm quite a small person and they don't sell any close to my size haha
Wholeheartedly agree! I like you turn things over after use to either a thrift, consignment, or FB marketplace to extend the life of the gear. I also search those same locations from gear that has surprisedly been good to me throughout my life. Great show....
I'm a super tightwad for life! Love the sentiment! You're spot on with pants and jackets, definitely where you should put your cash. Though there's a lot of really good quality kit now that's cheaper and cheaper. Decathlon puffy is a great example. UL down jacket at a fraction of the Arcteryx cost. I tend towards weight now too, so I'll find the lightest sun hoodie, or pants or jacket. If there's one thing that's blown my mind with clothing in the last couple of years....its Alpha Direct. To me it's as important a breakthrough for hiking as Dyneema was. Once you get an Alpha Direct hoodie....there's no going back.
When I first started many years ago I bought the least expensive things I could find. Didn't care what it looked like, and still don't outside of huge logos and colored chest pockets which are a non-starter, because it was more about just getting out there. But like anything you get in to as a serious hobby then function and longevity really starts to become a consideration. The more you learn, the more shit fails and the more you see which brands work best for you, then it's more of a 'buy once - cry once' thing. I agree that jackets are a wise place to spend your money. Jackets mean weather and you shouldn't dick around with weather. Boots/Shoes are another spot you want to invest. But learning how to hike or backpack online (talking to you Reddit and YT) means a lot of people are spending way too much on stuff because they think they have to. See if you get in to it first. And when you buy do your research, buy from a gear site and NEVER pay retail. You don't have to. I live over 7K, next to a National Forest, and hike daily in four seasons. I can justify putting out real money because my stuff gets used. I tend to go with one item for every need which keeps costs down. I don't need five merino baselayers. Wear one until it craps out and then replace. But if you're on occasional hiker then there's zero reason to look at Arc', OR, Rab or any of the upper tier brands unless you want to pose. And if that's the case, know that real hikers can see it immediately. If you're not rockin' tenacious tape on that $300 down then yeah...poser.
I love Wrangler ATG synthetic pants, they're even available at Walmart, for about $25. They're comfortable and they hold up well, no chafing or rubbing. I also love synthetic shirts from Port and Company. You can get shirts for about $5. I've used an Amazon Basics puffer that costs $30 and it's good down into the 30ºs if you hiking and the 40ºs if you're just standing around. I do have more expensive gear and I'm generally picky with socks and really only like Falke which are not really available in the U.S.
I'm usually hiking in a $6 synthetic t shirt I bought at a gas station or a $15 Amazon sun hoodie. They're not good, and you definitely do not want to smell me afterwards, but they get the job done.
I buy all over the board. Some of my best synthetic t-shirts come from thrift stores along with a number of great cheap synthetic polo shirts. Costco and JC Penny carry techy knock-offs that fill in for most scenarios. I agree the outter wear from some of the name brands is the way to go when you are rough on yourself and your gear. Good vintage and still functional gear is found on ebay. Sometimes I can look a bit weathered, but in my view, shiny new gear seems a bit out of place in the backcountry. The only time I approach that look is for a first meeting with a new client. They quickly get the idea after the first day. If a person is really that image conscious, the best image is when every component is well thought out and utilized. For instance, who will you really trust, the person with the brand new gps or the one with a compass, a weathered map and the knowledge to use them? Knowledge is "style".
As someone in their late 60's in Ireland I have yet to be convinced that a hiking "trendwear " t shirt is any better than a decent running t shirt half the price. To me buying high-end gear is more about trying to convince others of your hiking capabilities than anything else. I suppose if I had to take 1 shirt for a 3 months thru hike I may feel differently I do agree about getting hiking trousers though but again is a €120 trendwear pair any better than a €50 regular pair
My best hiking tshirts are from Boy Scouts of America about 10 years ago. I have 4 or 5 of them. They are some kind of synthetic wicking material. Thousands of miles on those shirts are still going strong. Most of my other hiking clothes come from the clearance racks of REI, Dicks, etc. Horrible colors but cheap. Basically I buy what no one else will buy because the color is awful.
And for myself I've also been pleasantly surprised with the Ridgecut brand of clothes at Tractor Supply, both for hiking and travel. Decent quality and much less expensive than my beloved REI.
I'm like you, Mike. I don't mind buying quality clothing - even if its expensive. I made the mistake of buying Fjallraven pants some time ago and now I own 3 pair. Expensive, but I love them! I truly enjoyed this video.
With what I wear backpacking I don't think I've worn a single item that cost more than $70 (winter jacket) other than boots. Mostly things I wear day to day (old navy/target), surplus/thrifted synthetics (unlike a $135 R1, my $35 fleece is FR) or in the odd case its from a big name outdoor brand, ebay. With a little patience, you can find the fancy brand name stuff for massive discounts for the cost of a pin hole or a bit of darning 80% of the time. The best clothes I own I got from my grandfather's closet after he passed a decade ago. If something is quality it shouldn't matter if it isn't new.
I definitely love my Kuhl clothing products, but I have also had really good luck with less expensive brands like Wolverine and Everest. Especially Wolverine though.
The fit on the kuhls (pants) is the best, bought one pair last year and was blown away I think they were the rydr..? Pretty heavy, actually fell like they were made for the human body, imagine that, and about 4 more pairs since.. radikal I believe for lightweight and a couple others I forget the model, no reason to even try the others, great stuff, worth the price, and I’m a poor dude. 7 dollar t from Walmart works for the top!
The "I just came to ask..." insult guy. I'm sure him unsubscribing really hurt y'all. I mean, Eric's been gone a while, and he's JUST noticing? 😀 My wife and I are slowly upgrading outdoor clothing. I have always gone affordable/cheap, but as I've bought an upgrade here and there (it started with a light, long-sleeved UV shirt for canoeing), I've come to appreciate the differences. (Although you'll still see me out on shorter day hikes in cotton t-shirts and cheapo cargo shorts. [But in decent socks and footwear.])
I have so much money in Arcteryx and Outdoor Research clothes/jackets it's obnoxious. I usually have Kuhl pants for hiking, they do great. REI brand has some decent clothes, and usually less expensive. Can usually find pretty good deals on Ebay too, lots of times the clothes look barely used.
Just started looking at Duckworth. They are certainly pricy but I like their stuff. Are they more ethical in some way? Their "about us" photo is great. That's a tough looking bunch.
@@BackpackingTV they regularly post about the sheep , and the actually ranch life taking the sheep from low to high country. It's the most transparent I've ever seen about where the wool actually comes from.
not here to push brands, i own a lot outdoor brands but..If you buy Patagonia they have a return / repair policy. if the product needs repair they do it no charge and if they cant fix it they will give you credit for what it's worth.
Naaaaaaa. I'm a big believer in the idea that feeling comfortable and liking the way you look increase your quality of life/confidence. There's nothing wrong with spending extra dosh on good clothes (I do). I just don't want to sell the idea that it's a requirement or anything. Also I haven't seen Psycho-Pass yet, is it good?
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Once you start to know how the more expensive clothes feel you can quickly sort through the racks of your local thrift store and find good quality threads.
found a kuhl flannel for cheap at thrift store . honestly just run my hands on the fabric until I find a wool thing now .
I enjoy your confidence, Mike. Do your own thing, make this channel your flavor!
That may be the best ending to a backpacking related video ever. Laughed out loud. So glad you're here, man.
Y is the Internet so mean? I like Eric. I like Stella. I like you. There's room for plenty of content creators. Each with their individual style.
I thought it was hilarious
Great video again Mike! Lots of solid info.
Hands down the best hiking, wet wading ( fishing ) and all around comfortable men’s pants for the outdoors is the Wrangler ® Men’s Outdoor All Terrain Cargo Pant with UPF 50+ Protection from Walmart. For just $26 , these IMO are a great value and tough. I beat a pair of these up for two months fly fishing though the mountain western states. From crawling on my knees to bushwhacking, they only show minimal wear and couple stains. Granted, there are some great outdoor companies making quality gear BUT if you’re on a budget, don’t overlook some of the big box stores.
I have a pair and I really like the feel and durability - it's just a shame because I'm quite a small person and they don't sell any close to my size haha
Wholeheartedly agree! I like you turn things over after use to either a thrift, consignment, or FB marketplace to extend the life of the gear. I also search those same locations from gear that has surprisedly been good to me throughout my life. Great show....
I'm a super tightwad for life! Love the sentiment!
You're spot on with pants and jackets, definitely where you should put your cash. Though there's a lot of really good quality kit now that's cheaper and cheaper. Decathlon puffy is a great example. UL down jacket at a fraction of the Arcteryx cost.
I tend towards weight now too, so I'll find the lightest sun hoodie, or pants or jacket.
If there's one thing that's blown my mind with clothing in the last couple of years....its Alpha Direct. To me it's as important a breakthrough for hiking as Dyneema was. Once you get an Alpha Direct hoodie....there's no going back.
I really appreciate that you did NOT put loud annoying music in the background. Just talking. Thanks!
I'm trying to move away from music on these kinds of videos and challenging myself to do everything in as few takes as possible. It's fun!
When I first started many years ago I bought the least expensive things I could find. Didn't care what it looked like, and still don't outside of huge logos and colored chest pockets which are a non-starter, because it was more about just getting out there. But like anything you get in to as a serious hobby then function and longevity really starts to become a consideration. The more you learn, the more shit fails and the more you see which brands work best for you, then it's more of a 'buy once - cry once' thing.
I agree that jackets are a wise place to spend your money. Jackets mean weather and you shouldn't dick around with weather. Boots/Shoes are another spot you want to invest. But learning how to hike or backpack online (talking to you Reddit and YT) means a lot of people are spending way too much on stuff because they think they have to. See if you get in to it first. And when you buy do your research, buy from a gear site and NEVER pay retail. You don't have to.
I live over 7K, next to a National Forest, and hike daily in four seasons. I can justify putting out real money because my stuff gets used. I tend to go with one item for every need which keeps costs down. I don't need five merino baselayers. Wear one until it craps out and then replace. But if you're on occasional hiker then there's zero reason to look at Arc', OR, Rab or any of the upper tier brands unless you want to pose. And if that's the case, know that real hikers can see it immediately. If you're not rockin' tenacious tape on that $300 down then yeah...poser.
I love Wrangler ATG synthetic pants, they're even available at Walmart, for about $25. They're comfortable and they hold up well, no chafing or rubbing.
I also love synthetic shirts from Port and Company. You can get shirts for about $5.
I've used an Amazon Basics puffer that costs $30 and it's good down into the 30ºs if you hiking and the 40ºs if you're just standing around.
I do have more expensive gear and I'm generally picky with socks and really only like Falke which are not really available in the U.S.
Socks are a good thing to be picky about. I haven't tried those, but I have some DarnTuffs that I swear by
I went for a day hike in a cotton t-shirt once. People on the trail thought I was committing suicide because you know... cotton kills 😂
Polycotton might be the most neglected fabric in the outdoor industry.
Great message. Thank you for your efforts.
I'm usually hiking in a $6 synthetic t shirt I bought at a gas station or a $15 Amazon sun hoodie. They're not good, and you definitely do not want to smell me afterwards, but they get the job done.
Good enough is good enough sometimes
@@BackpackingTV That said, I am also in desperate need of a good Kondo-ing.
I buy all over the board. Some of my best synthetic t-shirts come from thrift stores along with a number of great cheap synthetic polo shirts. Costco and JC Penny carry techy knock-offs that fill in for most scenarios. I agree the outter wear from some of the name brands is the way to go when you are rough on yourself and your gear. Good vintage and still functional gear is found on ebay. Sometimes I can look a bit weathered, but in my view, shiny new gear seems a bit out of place in the backcountry. The only time I approach that look is for a first meeting with a new client. They quickly get the idea after the first day. If a person is really that image conscious, the best image is when every component is well thought out and utilized. For instance, who will you really trust, the person with the brand new gps or the one with a compass, a weathered map and the knowledge to use them? Knowledge is "style".
As someone in their late 60's in Ireland I have yet to be convinced that a hiking "trendwear " t shirt is any better than a decent running t shirt half the price. To me buying high-end gear is more about trying to convince others of your hiking capabilities than anything else. I suppose if I had to take 1 shirt for a 3 months thru hike I may feel differently I do agree about getting hiking trousers though but again is a €120 trendwear pair any better than a €50 regular pair
My best hiking tshirts are from Boy Scouts of America about 10 years ago. I have 4 or 5 of them. They are some kind of synthetic wicking material. Thousands of miles on those shirts are still going strong. Most of my other hiking clothes come from the clearance racks of REI, Dicks, etc. Horrible colors but cheap. Basically I buy what no one else will buy because the color is awful.
Am I too old to join the Boy Scouts?
@@BackpackingTV Anyone can shop in the Scout store!
And for myself I've also been pleasantly surprised with the Ridgecut brand of clothes at Tractor Supply, both for hiking and travel. Decent quality and much less expensive than my beloved REI.
Nice Phish callout!
I'm like you, Mike. I don't mind buying quality clothing - even if its expensive. I made the mistake of buying Fjallraven pants some time ago and now I own 3 pair. Expensive, but I love them! I truly enjoyed this video.
I'm pretty sure I know a guy who wears the same pair of Fjallraven pants every day. They also have the coolest logo known to man.
@@BackpackingTV I think we both are thinking of the same person 😁
With what I wear backpacking I don't think I've worn a single item that cost more than $70 (winter jacket) other than boots. Mostly things I wear day to day (old navy/target), surplus/thrifted synthetics (unlike a $135 R1, my $35 fleece is FR) or in the odd case its from a big name outdoor brand, ebay.
With a little patience, you can find the fancy brand name stuff for massive discounts for the cost of a pin hole or a bit of darning 80% of the time. The best clothes I own I got from my grandfather's closet after he passed a decade ago. If something is quality it shouldn't matter if it isn't new.
I definitely love my Kuhl clothing products, but I have also had really good luck with less expensive brands like Wolverine and Everest. Especially Wolverine though.
Gonna look into wolverine
The fit on the kuhls (pants) is the best, bought one pair last year and was blown away I think they were the rydr..? Pretty heavy, actually fell like they were made for the human body, imagine that, and about 4 more pairs since.. radikal I believe for lightweight and a couple others I forget the model, no reason to even try the others, great stuff, worth the price, and I’m a poor dude. 7 dollar t from Walmart works for the top!
I have some renegades that I really like - they are the ones I show in the video. Kuhl makes some mean pants for sure
I got a pair of Kuhl pants at good will for $5. My favorite pants ever.
That's a sweet sweet deal
The "I just came to ask..." insult guy. I'm sure him unsubscribing really hurt y'all. I mean, Eric's been gone a while, and he's JUST noticing? 😀
My wife and I are slowly upgrading outdoor clothing. I have always gone affordable/cheap, but as I've bought an upgrade here and there (it started with a light, long-sleeved UV shirt for canoeing), I've come to appreciate the differences. (Although you'll still see me out on shorter day hikes in cotton t-shirts and cheapo cargo shorts. [But in decent socks and footwear.])
I've enjoyed having fewer clothes that I fix up along the way
Hi, your video is great, would you be interested in learning more about the brand Gash Hao hiking pants, looking forward to a reply!
I have so much money in Arcteryx and Outdoor Research clothes/jackets it's obnoxious. I usually have Kuhl pants for hiking, they do great. REI brand has some decent clothes, and usually less expensive. Can usually find pretty good deals on Ebay too, lots of times the clothes look barely used.
Arcteryx sent me some stuff I'll be using. The money really goes a long way when the jackets are mostly waterproof and super light.
I love Kuhl clothing. My name has something to do with that statement lol.
I can see that!
Another Mike that likes Kuhl. Now thats what I'm talking about.
I find wool shirts are worth the price. its not about brands but materials and ethics for me. really liking my duckworth Polaris Henley.
Just started looking at Duckworth. They are certainly pricy but I like their stuff. Are they more ethical in some way? Their "about us" photo is great. That's a tough looking bunch.
@@BackpackingTV they regularly post about the sheep , and the actually ranch life taking the sheep from low to high country. It's the most transparent I've ever seen about where the wool actually comes from.
This is largely location/climate/activity dependent but in MOST cases, no you definitely don't NEED high end gear
It is definitely gonna make a difference in potentially dangerous climates, whether that's hot or cold!
not here to push brands, i own a lot outdoor brands but..If you buy Patagonia they have a return / repair policy. if the product needs repair they do it no charge and if they cant fix it they will give you credit for what it's worth.
Really?? That's impressive. I may be taking them up on that. Thanks for the info
liking for Shin Godzilla
Very underrated movie - it kinda got swept under the rug after Minus One, which was also great.
As an REI poser this was painful..🎽🎽🎽
Naaaaaaa. I'm a big believer in the idea that feeling comfortable and liking the way you look increase your quality of life/confidence. There's nothing wrong with spending extra dosh on good clothes (I do). I just don't want to sell the idea that it's a requirement or anything. Also I haven't seen Psycho-Pass yet, is it good?
You should check it out.
Ebay!
Ebay goes hard
Patagonia is my go to but REI brand clothes come in clutch also
YAY for the outside being for everyone. Also when I watch your videos it motivates me to pick up something heavy repeatedly, so thanks for that!
Pick up heavy things, put them back down, eat, sleep. It is a good life.
Triple Aught Design Traverse Tech T is my go to. I want to say its 60% Merino. I get multiple years out of them. Definatly worth the coin imo
Never tried those! Something I should look into?
Neanderthal...😮😮😂