I watch all of you guys on your seperate channels, but its a real treat when you guys link up for collabs. Its like our version of The Avenger movies. Backpackers, ASSEMBLE!
@@eric_hansonWhy not play around with some challenges between all of you? Things like budget loadouts, a "gear draft" like fantasy football but for backpacking gear, who can go the most UL etc. etc. Super cool seeing the collabs, keep it up!
Definitely do more collaborations with Devin. I think Devin had the better load out. My only question is when you mentioned the pack was slightly smaller than you anticipated and you sacrificed a couple of things, what are those things? The first things you don't bring if the pack doesn't allow it?
Great content! Thanks for producing fun and helpful content. I have to agree that fluffy zenbivy looks hilarious in your one man buttt I bought a zenbivy after seeing your gear showdown with Dan last year. I’ve been backpacking for years but the Zenbivy was a game changer for me as a slide sleeper. Thx again!!!❤
Love my UGQ Bandit. I have used it on the ground and in a hammock. I got the zip up footbox that allows you to open it up all the way. You can get a bit of a cold draft with that opening, but it's not too hard to block it up. And the upside is when it's warmer, you have the ability to vent, so you can use it in a much wider range of temperatures.
Great video gents. One more thing of note about the zenbivy hood is that it’s great for side sleepers. I sleep on my side with my arm under my pillow/pellow. Not having my arm exposed while doing so was not something I considered when I purchased it, but I very much appreciate it.
I'm intrigued by the new Zen bivy set-up. I just dont have any space for new gear. City apartment living sux 😂 the pillow looks really awesome, as a side sleeper, I'm always trying to find that perfect height and comfort to weight ratio. I'm fully in the quilt camp. I don't like the hood on a mummy bag, other than to hold my pillow in place. I don't like things over my face, but I do use a mummy bag in colder weather when needed. I just don't prefer it. I have the Kakwa 55 as well. I got it when I got my dog and now have extra gear and food to carry for her. I like it, but haven’t been out with it much.
Not having enough gear storage is a pretty constant struggle! If you can find room in your apartment the Zenbivy is quite awesome (esp for side sleepers.) I'm really impressed with the Kakwa after a second trip with it.
I have the Durston Kakwa 40 And I love it. That frame system is actually can handle up to 55 pounds. But you’re right Eric, 30 pounds is the max for me. I’m really intrigued with the Zen Bivy system.
I own a UGQ bandit in 0 degree long wide with dynamic tension control and fully insulated foot box and it’s awesome. No drafts, with the combination of pad straps and DTC. Great quality of construction and finish of materials. What’s nice is that they 30% overstuff at minimum no matter what so the temp rating is the comfort rating. My favorite piece of gear.
They sell a ground sheet for the Helinox Chair Zero to keep it sinking in the ground. Shame it doesn't come with the chair. Great vid as usual Eric. Keep up the good work.
Devin’s tent and chair wins for me, Eric, I have the Kakwa 55 also it’s amazing (and i own an xmid 1, but I prefer my hilleberg Niak to ul tents, just more reliable in English weather) definitely want the zenbivy but really expensive to get to the uk
Those two backpacks (at the 40l of course) need a compare video. I love my kakawa 40… I was one of them jumping into your comments :) I do carry roughly 25 lbs or less in it also and find it is super comfortable at that weight or below. Needlessly to say, I like Eric’s setup. I run the same tent and pack. I really like the OV 15 degree quilt. I have had it to 24 and was fine in it with some clothing.
Is great seeing the great backpackers get together and do a video. I love it it’s wonderful that was entertaining but it’s also educational out there and what works best for different people. Thank you so much. 23:52
Nice collaboration! I like Devin's cookpot/stove and chair. I liked Eric's tent, sleep system. Though I'll be honest ... I don't like quilts for ground sleeping either. And the pillow you both were using looks awesome! My opinion on the packs is that's all individualistic - on looks I'd pick the Kakwa - but I love my Mariposa and think it'd be hard to find something better. Also tried the Helinox chair and it gets left at home about 90% of the time. I prefer to use my GG pad and lay on the ground (or set it up against a log or something to have as a backrest while I'm cooking/eating while enjoying a fire.
Great video - love when you collaborate with others, Eric. I'm torn between the two set-ups (each has some quality gear). The big question for me is: where did you get that awesome brimmed hat , Eric? Is that an Outdoor Trading hat?
Late to the party, but I want to know what the final thought on the UGQ Bandit was? I have a 20 degree Bandit XL (65x78) that works great - even on the ground. Taken it down to 16 in a hammock and was toasty warm except for my feet (and given it wasn't rated for those temps, can't blame them for that.) The lowest I've gone on the ground was 28, but paired with a Thermarest 7.8R value pad. No problems at all. And I'm a cold sleeper. So I definitely think they are rated to comfort. Devin also didn't show you the best feature on that Slingfin - the views without the fly. I love my Durston Pro2 (though would have totally bought the 2+ if it was available at the time), but I miss the star gazing. I've had my eye on that Kakwa pack, too. But wish it was a little bigger.
Thoroughly enjoyed the info. I would have enjoyed the battling though. And yes MSR has missed the mark on their cup. Zenbivy air mat at R 4.8 is a 25° comfort from the reviews for a cold sleeper.
Love the BA puffy. I have the same in grey and still have it since they came out. I do want to get the Nemo chair. Been using the Helinox chair zero since it came out and hear the Nemo is a lot more comfortable
Nice equipment I have a Nemo Dagger Osmo 3 person that I am very happy with. Your tents look very good. I am now making my own backpack just to eliminate hotspots and rub zones
"I don't like the Helinox" - I have to agree, it sits too low to the ground. But it's big brother - the Helinox chair zero - Large, its a win. Its a tad over 600 grams and it sits high. Also it has more room for your behind lol. And it can withstand 145kg, which sounds like overkill, but it means that its way more stable when a normal person sits on it. And if you make a groundsheet out of Tyvek, its comparable in weight to the Nemo with groundsheet.
Have the Durston Kakwa 40 and agree with the hot spot in the back with heavy loads. Soooo… I bought the zpacks lumbar pad which weights 1oz and is overpriced but works well and am very happy with the set up.
I’ve got a lot of excellent advice from both you for quite a few years. But for this video I am team Devon. I really want to know about the Slingfin…. And I like BA chairs best too. I like this combo video. Soon you both need to do a tarp shelter challenge video.
Love all these gear videos, everybody's different ways to get around problems!! Helinox chair zero with ground sheet for the win for me! I'm currently debating a new tent and also need to get another sleeping bag.... the 0 degree is almost out of season 😂
I own a slingfin tent...and its great! Always been curious about the 2Lite That said...i'm a recent ZenBivy convert. Not to the light, or ultralight, but the regular, for most short, overnight trips. My Enlightened Equipment 10 degree is still my favorite piece of gear i own! However, after seeing the UL version of the ZenBivy....i might need an upgrade!
Wondering why the sleep pad companies couldn’t make another thin sleeping pad that connects underneath the top sleeping pad to create an air barrier. Would this add insulation?
Another great video Eric! This was a fun one to watch 👏 I’m so glade you went independent and these collaboration videos are sweet. Well I think you won because I’m interested in the Kakwa and I love my Durston tent.
@@eric_hanson I always appreciate your input on gear it’s truly relatable BUT your eye for videography and capturing the moment for the viewer is captivating! I’m enjoying your content Eric 👍
You should go to the Finnish northern Lapland, it has some really unique and beautiful scenerys that you won't find anywhere else. I'm finnish so i've been there a couple of times, but the most beautiful part is the "arms desert" (in finnish "käsivarren erämaa") name comes from it being in the "arm" of Finland. It would make for a great and interesting video even though it is far away.
Hi as far as the Chair Zero Helinox -- they do make and sell a Separate ground pad the combination of Helinox chair and ground pad will -- make both chair = in weight
I’m half Eric, half Devin. Eric’s sleep system and tent win the battle for me. But Devin’s chair, cook system, and backpack win the other half of the battle.
Devin’s tent is better suited for the desert, imo. Easier to pitch in sand and flat rock. It’s a push in all other categories except the chair where the Nemo crushes the chair zero in comfort.
Hearing the prices i think im sticking with my alice pack Coleman tent. Like the cooking shows cooking in a kitchen bigger than an apartment with ingredients people have never heard of. ( Thank you Richard Jenny) This is camping from mars. Places i will never go with gear costing more than a car.
I have been coveting that Nemo chair, having experienced the Helinox leg-sinking issue. Until I can justify spending that kind of $$$, I have experimented with various mods to keep the Helinox’s feet from sinking, but I have found the BEST solution is to find a branch about 3” in diameter, and break it off to about 20” long or so and just put that underneath the feet, with the feet straddling the log. Works great! (Until I can get that other $$$ chair.)
It's the Hyperlite Camera Pod and it's great. Love the weather protection plus I actually like how it sits on my chest and balances weight better than if it's in my pack.
If you are getting bruises on top of your hips from a backpack, it’s likely not a long enough torso and is sitting too high on your hips. Or, the pants/belt you are wearing are too thick/abrasive. My guess is try a longer torso backpack. The belt needs to sit at or slightly below your pants belt line.
Could @Durston, or any of the other ultralight backs, make a 65-70 Liter backpack. I'd buy one in a heartbeat! They all seem to max out at 55-57 Liter?
ZPacks, HMG, Superior Wilderness Designs, and Seek outside all make packs that are 70L. Zpacks, Seek Outside, and Superior Wilderness Designs are all US made. Both packs in this video are not US made, I think they are made in China.
@@durstongear A true Honor to get a response from someone of your stature!! I would be more likely to buy your products if they were made either in US or Canada, but I get why you are producing them in Vietnam. It's harder to find tents made in the US, so can you design a 3 person lightweight tent. I do appreciate what you do and thanks for the response.
@@steveh5169 Thanks Steve. With my gear I try to partner with factories that are excellent at making that item. The tent factory we use builds high end tents for a lot of brands (e.g. MSR, Nemo etc), whereas I don't think there are tent factories in North America other than building in house (but we are in a small rural town so we wouldn't have enough people to do that). I am hoping to add a 3P tent. It won't be ready this year but I hope it can be out in 2025. - Dan
Thanks for confirming...gear hasn't really improved in the past two decades, just the hype. All the designs are old and the exotic materials don't enhance them enough to offset the cost/weight ratio penalty. A lot of it looks like one step forward and two steps back.
Even though I'm sure your title is a clickbait thing, I want to share some thoughts on it. Best gear is my opinion, does not exist. There is just right or wrong equipment for a given situation. That is the reason why we have may have 10 backpacks and 5 tents. And being pro i'd say has nothing to do with having "the best" gear, but with the experience to plan well beforehand and to deal with unexpected situations. So I'm left with not able to give you an answer to your question, without bullshitting ;)
Looked fun to play with new toys. The dry desert looks nice. I like my custom wide quilt on the ground but can be a bit too wide when in the hammock. The room to toss and turn is great. The pellow looks nice 😆
Wow! It's hard to make a choice as there are things I prefer about both of your set-ups. Both are well thought out but time will tell as to how they really hold up when backpacking under such diverse conditions. That's why you both test the gear so we don't have to be our own guinea pigs, LOL! My hat's off to both of you, Eric and Devin for taking your lumps (literally) for all of us backpack nerds! It really is appreciated. 😉
@@eric_hanson wish I had that problem! LOL!!! I'm sure you get this all the time... But... My daughter (33), son (28) and I (63) will be backpacking the Pacos wilderness in NM, 3rd week in June for 4 days & you are invited. I understand if you can't make it but you do have the invite. Keep up the good work!!!
I watch all of you guys on your seperate channels, but its a real treat when you guys link up for collabs. Its like our version of The Avenger movies. Backpackers, ASSEMBLE!
Couldn’t agree more! If Justin (mlo) and Dan were there i was going to lose my mind!
haha, alright good to know! I'll send out the signal and see if I can get whole team on board!
@@eric_hansonWhy not play around with some challenges between all of you? Things like budget loadouts, a "gear draft" like fantasy football but for backpacking gear, who can go the most UL etc. etc. Super cool seeing the collabs, keep it up!
Definitely a pillow… not a pellow
Lol
dan's commenting real fast
Does Eric also swallow pells?
If you were from Appalachia it would be a “piller.”
In Ms. It’s a pilla
I really enjoy the collaboration between the big name RUclips peeps. Thanks for sharing!
It's a lot of fun to collaborate with good people. More to come!
@@eric_hansonget Justin Outdoors in there too!
Definitely do more collaborations with Devin. I think Devin had the better load out. My only question is when you mentioned the pack was slightly smaller than you anticipated and you sacrificed a couple of things, what are those things? The first things you don't bring if the pack doesn't allow it?
Just glad to see more people using Slingfin! They deserve so much more love for what their products are!
First time for me to see em in the wild. I was impressed!
These collab videos are great. Been following Eric, Dan and Devin for a while now and it’s awesome to see them getting together.
Thanks! They're a lot of fun to do!
Great content! Thanks for producing fun and helpful content. I have to agree that fluffy zenbivy looks hilarious in your one man buttt I bought a zenbivy after seeing your gear showdown with Dan last year. I’ve been backpacking for years but the Zenbivy was a game changer for me as a slide sleeper. Thx again!!!❤
Love my UGQ Bandit. I have used it on the ground and in a hammock. I got the zip up footbox that allows you to open it up all the way. You can get a bit of a cold draft with that opening, but it's not too hard to block it up. And the upside is when it's warmer, you have the ability to vent, so you can use it in a much wider range of temperatures.
The ability to change it up in different temperatures is a pretty nice feature!
Great video gents. One more thing of note about the zenbivy hood is that it’s great for side sleepers. I sleep on my side with my arm under my pillow/pellow. Not having my arm exposed while doing so was not something I considered when I purchased it, but I very much appreciate it.
Tha'ts an excellent point about the Zenbivy setup. I'm a side sleeper too and definitely agree!
I'm intrigued by the new Zen bivy set-up. I just dont have any space for new gear. City apartment living sux 😂 the pillow looks really awesome, as a side sleeper, I'm always trying to find that perfect height and comfort to weight ratio.
I'm fully in the quilt camp. I don't like the hood on a mummy bag, other than to hold my pillow in place. I don't like things over my face, but I do use a mummy bag in colder weather when needed. I just don't prefer it.
I have the Kakwa 55 as well. I got it when I got my dog and now have extra gear and food to carry for her. I like it, but haven’t been out with it much.
Not having enough gear storage is a pretty constant struggle! If you can find room in your apartment the Zenbivy is quite awesome (esp for side sleepers.) I'm really impressed with the Kakwa after a second trip with it.
Ah good times, Eric!
This was a blast! Much more fun than putting on icy socks.
I have the Durston Kakwa 40 And I love it. That frame system is actually can handle up to 55 pounds. But you’re right Eric, 30 pounds is the max for me. I’m really intrigued with the Zen Bivy system.
I own a UGQ bandit in 0 degree long wide with dynamic tension control and fully insulated foot box and it’s awesome. No drafts, with the combination of pad straps and DTC. Great quality of construction and finish of materials. What’s nice is that they 30% overstuff at minimum no matter what so the temp rating is the comfort rating. My favorite piece of gear.
They sell a ground sheet for the Helinox Chair Zero to keep it sinking in the ground. Shame it doesn't come with the chair. Great vid as usual Eric. Keep up the good work.
I'm so thankful I bought it when I bought the chair!! It would be useless without ground sheet 90% of the time for me!
I think that would make a big difference! I haven't tried it yet.
Devin and Erin Indoors! you need to bring Justin Indoors as well!
I totally have a "pallow", absolutely a best friend when it comes to sleep. I bring it visiting family to get the sleep quality I need ❤
Devin’s tent and chair wins for me, Eric, I have the Kakwa 55 also it’s amazing (and i own an xmid 1, but I prefer my hilleberg Niak to ul tents, just more reliable in English weather) definitely want the zenbivy but really expensive to get to the uk
Those two backpacks (at the 40l of course) need a compare video.
I love my kakawa 40… I was one of them jumping into your comments :)
I do carry roughly 25 lbs or less in it also and find it is super comfortable at that weight or below.
Needlessly to say, I like Eric’s setup. I run the same tent and pack.
I really like the OV 15 degree quilt. I have had it to 24 and was fine in it with some clothing.
Is great seeing the great backpackers get together and do a video. I love it it’s wonderful that was entertaining but it’s also educational out there and what works best for different people. Thank you so much. 23:52
Nice collaboration! I like Devin's cookpot/stove and chair. I liked Eric's tent, sleep system. Though I'll be honest ... I don't like quilts for ground sleeping either. And the pillow you both were using looks awesome! My opinion on the packs is that's all individualistic - on looks I'd pick the Kakwa - but I love my Mariposa and think it'd be hard to find something better. Also tried the Helinox chair and it gets left at home about 90% of the time. I prefer to use my GG pad and lay on the ground (or set it up against a log or something to have as a backrest while I'm cooking/eating while enjoying a fire.
fair assessment but you forgot to say that I won
@@eric_hanson 🤣🤣 tough call - might be a draw! 🙃
Glad you are doing this again, it was a lot of fun, especially the one with Dan Becker.
Thanks! I'll probably do these whenever I can link up with other RUclipsrs.
Great video - love when you collaborate with others, Eric. I'm torn between the two set-ups (each has some quality gear). The big question for me is: where did you get that awesome brimmed hat , Eric? Is that an Outdoor Trading hat?
Late to the party, but I want to know what the final thought on the UGQ Bandit was? I have a 20 degree Bandit XL (65x78) that works great - even on the ground. Taken it down to 16 in a hammock and was toasty warm except for my feet (and given it wasn't rated for those temps, can't blame them for that.) The lowest I've gone on the ground was 28, but paired with a Thermarest 7.8R value pad. No problems at all. And I'm a cold sleeper. So I definitely think they are rated to comfort. Devin also didn't show you the best feature on that Slingfin - the views without the fly. I love my Durston Pro2 (though would have totally bought the 2+ if it was available at the time), but I miss the star gazing. I've had my eye on that Kakwa pack, too. But wish it was a little bigger.
What an awesome collab. Hope yall stayed warm.
Thanks! Barely stayed warm, but we had fun!
Would love to see vid(s) of non-pros and evaluating their gear, what they like and any items you think could be great upgrades for them.
I literally have both the durston back and tent. Amazing combo
Thoroughly enjoyed the info. I would have enjoyed the battling though. And yes MSR has missed the mark on their cup. Zenbivy air mat at R 4.8 is a 25° comfort from the reviews for a cold sleeper.
I use basically every product you’re using Eric, so my vote is you. Great episode, you guys nailed it.
Eric won for sure IMO. but definitely agree that the Big Agnes Skyline UL is the best chair ever.
Love the BA puffy. I have the same in grey and still have it since they came out.
I do want to get the Nemo chair. Been using the Helinox chair zero since it came out and hear the Nemo is a lot more comfortable
Eric, it is NOT a cult. Durston owners are just a very enthusiastic fan club, especially when it comes to the tents. 😂 #notacult
Its a cult...
And he is in it.
Nice equipment I have a Nemo Dagger Osmo 3 person that I am very happy with. Your tents look very good. I am now making my own backpack just to eliminate hotspots and rub zones
I use the kunai (winter camper) and i want to buy the 3p dagger for summer season. It looks very comfy tent.
@@MrSportdiver I used it last to hike up to Grey Owls Cabin in the Prince Albert National Park. It was very comfortable for both of us.
@@guyshannon7732 Nice! Definitely buying one!
"I don't like the Helinox" - I have to agree, it sits too low to the ground. But it's big brother - the Helinox chair zero - Large, its a win. Its a tad over 600 grams and it sits high. Also it has more room for your behind lol. And it can withstand 145kg, which sounds like overkill, but it means that its way more stable when a normal person sits on it. And if you make a groundsheet out of Tyvek, its comparable in weight to the Nemo with groundsheet.
Have the Durston Kakwa 40 and agree with the hot spot in the back with heavy loads. Soooo… I bought the zpacks lumbar pad which weights 1oz and is overpriced but works well and am very happy with the set up.
I’ve got a lot of excellent advice from both you for quite a few years. But for this video I am team Devon. I really want to know about the Slingfin…. And I like BA chairs best too. I like this combo video. Soon you both need to do a tarp shelter challenge video.
Love all these gear videos, everybody's different ways to get around problems!! Helinox chair zero with ground sheet for the win for me! I'm currently debating a new tent and also need to get another sleeping bag.... the 0 degree is almost out of season 😂
I own a slingfin tent...and its great! Always been curious about the 2Lite
That said...i'm a recent ZenBivy convert. Not to the light, or ultralight, but the regular, for most short, overnight trips. My Enlightened Equipment 10 degree is still my favorite piece of gear i own! However, after seeing the UL version of the ZenBivy....i might need an upgrade!
Used it on a second trip now, and it's pretty slick!
Enjoyed this one immensely. Voting Eric but no flaws with Devin.
It's true, Devin is flawless.
I hope you can do one of these with Justin or Miranda someday!
I have a UGQ XL Bandit 20 degree with convertible foot box and really like it but I have to be honest I’m still eyeing the ZenBivy
What backpack do you recommend for slightly heavier backpacking? What is your go-to 30-40lbs backpack?
Wondering why the sleep pad companies couldn’t make another thin sleeping pad that connects underneath the top sleeping pad to create an air barrier. Would this add insulation?
Another great video Eric! This was a fun one to watch 👏 I’m so glade you went independent and these collaboration videos are sweet. Well I think you won because I’m interested in the Kakwa and I love my Durston tent.
haha thanks Mike! I gotta get your comment boosted since you say I won. You're a true friend.
@@eric_hanson I always appreciate your input on gear it’s truly relatable BUT your eye for videography and capturing the moment for the viewer is captivating! I’m enjoying your content Eric 👍
I would take Eric’s sleep system with Devin’s tent. Not enough room in that durston 1 sorry. Might as well do a bivy tarp setup with that room
You should go to the Finnish northern Lapland, it has some really unique and beautiful scenerys that you won't find anywhere else. I'm finnish so i've been there a couple of times, but the most beautiful part is the "arms desert" (in finnish "käsivarren erämaa") name comes from it being in the "arm" of Finland. It would make for a great and interesting video even though it is far away.
I've been up in Swedish Lapland a little and really enjoyed my time there. I'd absolutely love to explore the area you're talking about.
Hi
as far as the Chair Zero Helinox -- they do make and sell a Separate ground pad
the combination of Helinox chair and ground pad will -- make both chair = in weight
Good point! I gotta check that thing out.
I’m half Eric, half Devin.
Eric’s sleep system and tent win the battle for me.
But Devin’s chair, cook system, and backpack win the other half of the battle.
Which mattress do you prefer and why. Nemo Tensor All Season or the Zenbivy
Both are solid but I'd go Zenbivy.
Where were the bits filmed at that pop up at 8:15?
Great video. Can you tell us what Devon’s hiking pants are? They look comfortable for my hubby.
Livsn Ecotrek Trail Pants! I loooove them!
Pillow…pellow…it’s all good! It’s a tie! TY!
What are thosd green trousers you wearing?
Eric what size is the Zenbivy you have?
Zpacks lumbar pad on the Kakwa + a sit pad fastened on the back for ventilation; you're welcome.
Nice, that's a good idea.
imo the best backpack load is what works for you who cares about anyone else everyone's different
Personal preference catch 22, all the quality, light gear is stupid expensive & yet i definitely prefer quality gear.
What shoes are you wearing??
Devin’s tent is better suited for the desert, imo. Easier to pitch in sand and flat rock. It’s a push in all other categories except the chair where the Nemo crushes the chair zero in comfort.
This battle could go the distance!(eating popcorn)
I have the sand pad for the Helinox one and it works great. I just don’t like how the helinox feels.
Hearing the prices i think im sticking with my alice pack Coleman tent.
Like the cooking shows cooking in a kitchen bigger than an apartment with ingredients people have never heard of. ( Thank you Richard Jenny)
This is camping from mars. Places i will never go with gear costing more than a car.
🤷♂️
I have been coveting that Nemo chair, having experienced the Helinox leg-sinking issue. Until I can justify spending that kind of $$$, I have experimented with various mods to keep the Helinox’s feet from sinking, but I have found the BEST solution is to find a branch about 3” in diameter, and break it off to about 20” long or so and just put that underneath the feet, with the feet straddling the log. Works great! (Until I can get that other $$$ chair.)
That's a great low (no) cost solution!
Devin is an og he's probably packing heat somewhere In that loadout. Eric what size is that kakwa large or medium?
Eric, what down jacket are you wearing and how do you like it?
It's the Big Agnes Zetto. I really like it! Super light and compact.
Eric, what camera chest rig/bag are you using and do you like it?
It's the Hyperlite Camera Pod and it's great. Love the weather protection plus I actually like how it sits on my chest and balances weight better than if it's in my pack.
Anyone after a cup like that, Toaks do a 550ml cup which seems to have same diameter as the plastic cup here. It nests really well with the 550ml pot.
Nice. Good rec!
Eric for the win🎉except the chair. I’ve switched to the big Agnes chair
Ditch those Cyndi Lauper sun glasses or give them back to Justin Outdoors 😂
The Alpen fuel lemon berry granola is awesome!!
I didn't catch the brand of that poallow, what was it again?
haha, it's Zenbivy. Link in the description if you're interested.
If you are getting bruises on top of your hips from a backpack, it’s likely not a long enough torso and is sitting too high on your hips. Or, the pants/belt you are wearing are too thick/abrasive.
My guess is try a longer torso backpack. The belt needs to sit at or slightly below your pants belt line.
The backpack is supposed to distribute weight onto your glutes and actual hips, not the top of your pelvis.
you are killing ultralighters with your comfort pellows and unsinking chairs 🤣
haha gotta keep the UL crowd on their toes!
Glad the words came out, hehe, finally it is admitted that quilts are useless in colder temps. In summer I can see the benefit.
imo it depends on how you sleep I myself sleep incredibly hot and roll around a lot for me a bag is like sleeping in a strait jacket 😊
Hi from Newfoundland Canada great video and nice gear looks great
Using Backpacking Light’s scale, no pack has a better weight to carry ratio than the Kakwa. Dan works wonders.
I like my Waymark 40
Chair platform?😊
I can’t choose between you two, I like you both…
We're both standup guys when we're sitting down.
Could @Durston, or any of the other ultralight backs, make a 65-70 Liter backpack. I'd buy one in a heartbeat! They all seem to max out at 55-57 Liter?
ZPacks, HMG, Superior Wilderness Designs, and Seek outside all make packs that are 70L. Zpacks, Seek Outside, and Superior Wilderness Designs are all US made. Both packs in this video are not US made, I think they are made in China.
@@steveh5169 Our packs are made in Vietnam.
@@durstongear A true Honor to get a response from someone of your stature!! I would be more likely to buy your products if they were made either in US or Canada, but I get why you are producing them in Vietnam. It's harder to find tents made in the US, so can you design a 3 person lightweight tent. I do appreciate what you do and thanks for the response.
@@steveh5169 Thanks Steve. With my gear I try to partner with factories that are excellent at making that item. The tent factory we use builds high end tents for a lot of brands (e.g. MSR, Nemo etc), whereas I don't think there are tent factories in North America other than building in house (but we are in a small rural town so we wouldn't have enough people to do that).
I am hoping to add a 3P tent. It won't be ready this year but I hope it can be out in 2025.
- Dan
Also, helinox makes a base that attaches to the feet for sand and mud….
Thanks for confirming...gear hasn't really improved in the past two decades, just the hype. All the designs are old and the exotic materials don't enhance them enough to offset the cost/weight ratio penalty. A lot of it looks like one step forward and two steps back.
If a quilt is basically a sleeping bag shrunk down to minimal size for lower weight,
then how is an oversized quilt better than a sleeping bag?
I have to say I like Devin's setup better. Mainly because of the tent. I'm just not a fan of the Durston tents.
Boo Hiss!
@@eric_hanson you asked. 🤣
They both used that quilt last night…. 🤔 hmmmm
What shoes was he wearing
Danner Trail 2650 😁
Even though I'm sure your title is a clickbait thing, I want to share some thoughts on it.
Best gear is my opinion, does not exist. There is just right or wrong equipment for a given situation. That is the reason why we have may have 10 backpacks and 5 tents.
And being pro i'd say has nothing to do with having "the best" gear, but with the experience to plan well beforehand and to deal with unexpected situations.
So I'm left with not able to give you an answer to your question, without bullshitting ;)
Looked fun to play with new toys. The dry desert looks nice. I like my custom wide quilt on the ground but can be a bit too wide when in the hammock. The room to toss and turn is great. The pellow looks nice 😆
The desert was gorgeous but colder than expected!
Original stove is Pinguin Atom Titan
I gotta get me one of those “ pillows”!
They're pellows, or even pallows!
My gear would like a talk with your gear.
Zenbivy pad vs REI Helix. Video now!!!!!!😂
good idea!
Wow! It's hard to make a choice as there are things I prefer about both of your set-ups. Both are well thought out but time will tell as to how they really hold up when backpacking under such diverse conditions. That's why you both test the gear so we don't have to be our own guinea pigs, LOL! My hat's off to both of you, Eric and Devin for taking your lumps (literally) for all of us backpack nerds! It really is appreciated. 😉
I really like Eric's equipment best
Too tier content thank you very enjoyable
Never trust a guy with shiny gear..
This feels like the equivalent of never trust a skinny cook 😂
Eh, more like trust the guy with well loved gear
Better than a pullow!😅
I want a zenbivy setup so bad since I'm side sleeper
Zenbivy overall is my favorite system. The new UL system is sliick.
@@eric_hanson I'd love one myself, but being a broke single dad... it's not in the cards right now
I LOVE YOUR KIT! .... BUT...... WAAAAAAY OUT OF MY PRICE RANGE. WISH I COULD AFORD IT THOUGH.
It's understandable. Our jobs are basically to take the newest (often priciest stuff) out for testing.
@@eric_hanson wish I had that problem! LOL!!! I'm sure you get this all the time... But... My daughter (33), son (28) and I (63) will be backpacking the Pacos wilderness in NM, 3rd week in June for 4 days & you are invited. I understand if you can't make it but you do have the invite. Keep up the good work!!!
That's some extreme stuff. Trusting your life to 1500$ worth of new high end camping gear. Living on the edge.
I like to live dangerously.
that’s the best camping pillow ever
I actually prefer pellows to pillows.
The crippling trap devices just plain freaked me out.
What are you talking about?