Gear Test Extravaganza: Backpacking Wyoming with all New Gear

[@williekenk]

The way y’all discuss packs is just so much more practical than the way most other channels. It’s so nice to hear the focus on comfort over just weight savings.

[@BackpackingTV]

Comfort is king in my opinion!

[@DanielSmith90]

This was a great video, and it's super helpful to get Kristi's feedback on some of the gear she is using! We will definitely be looking forward to more content with her involved, because women's perspectives can be a lot harder to find, and she does a really great job!

[@robertpearson2143]

Probably my favorite video of yours. You just seemed to be having a good time first and provided good information as it comes up. The spot was also super beautiful. Thanks for sharing a great trip.

[@BackpackingTV]

Wow, well thank you so much!

[@Jasmine-zi2qh]

Coming from a lady who just tried on the Bridger, I can say the second sternum strap shouldn’t be a concern (regardless of chest size). The same principles apply as all other fitting packs - the majority of weight should be on the hips, then some on the shoulders, and next to none on the sternum strap - it’s more there for stability/to prevent wobbling, than ongoing weight-bearing. She raises an excellent point that the second sternum strap really helps to keep the shoulder straps out of the armpits, which can be a big problem with regular packs if your bust is just pushing those shoulder straps outwards; add the reach of trekking poles to the mix and you can develop some serious armpit/upper chest chafing issues. I think the Bridger really solves this issue and hope other manufacturers adopt this design, too!

[@Rawdilz]

Having that water bag slapping on my chest the entire hike would drive me nuts.

[@naturalflow157]

My dear friend, this is truly an inspiring video to experience. It's absolutely soothing and relaxing to watch and let the experience speak for itself. As someone who travelled a lot and got lost in life, lost all the passion, the drive, the hunger for exploration I finally managed after years getting back out there, getting the feeling of an adventure and what it means to experience again the great feeling hiking, exploring, and travel gives you. Thank you so much for sharing this video, I am moved and inspired by you and the knowledge you share. Wishing you the best.

[@JoseHernandez-jh7ht]

WOW, looked like a great trip you two are wonderful together great gear review 👏 😀 hope see more of you two 🤠👍

[@ExplorewithEast]

Thanks for saying it’s okay to have comfort over weight saving! I feel the same way. I carry more weight as the more experienced hiker in my group and usually carry Bear can, dogs sleeping bag and extra water. I keep thinking I need the lighter bag. But keep going back to my comfort one tat people say is to heavy!

[@Colorado_Kkid]

Nice informative video ... I just returned from a 3-day backpacking trip in RMNP where I got to use my Mystery Ranch Bridger 65 L pack for the first time ... Two observations ... 1. When I put it on the first day with it weighing in at 38 lbs. and after synching up the hip belt it didn't fell very good on my hips ... My first thought was this isn't good and it's going to be a long day ... But what I came to realize as the day progressed was it takes time for the hip belt to conform to your body ... And by the end of the day the discomfort I originally felt was gone ... 2. The shoulder strap/chest harness (?) felt a lot different than what I was use to ... But again as the day progressed it started to conform to my chest and by the end of the day it felt like it was hugging me ... A different feeling but a good feeling ... So to conclude ... It takes time for the Bridger pack to adjust to your body and once it does it's very comfortable ... Thanks for doing your earlier video on it because your recommendation is the reason I got it ...

[@BackpackingTV]

So glad to hear your experience here. Yeah, it can take a minute to get the pack adjusted right, as well as for things to shift and conform to your body. Keep on enjoying! I love hearing the real world experience from others!

[@peterjones4180]

Great to see a Mystery Ranch pack on U Tube, as a long time Mystery Ranch military and Crossfire Australia pack user, i have often wondered why i don't see more of their packs in use.

[@BackpackingTV]

They are definitely gaining popularity. I think they've just focused on military and hunting for so long that the backpacking segment has a ton of room for growth.

[@peterjones4180]

@@BackpackingTV Hmmm you may be right, though i have almost all their military range and i use them exclusively for hiking, in preference to their hiking range, there is no PALS webbing on their civilian packs for the attachment of gear like E Tools pouches etc.

[@douglaselkins952]

This one made me smile. Thanks for bringing us along!

[@BackpackingTV]

This was a fun one! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@panhandlejake6200]

I hiked this exact trail one month ago (end of July). PERFECT weather. While there wasn't snow, there were LOTS of people and there was some competition for tent spots. Where you camped definitely had one of the best views. However, there were additional stunning views further into the Range. I hiked there 50 years ago - I will be back, but not waiting another 50 years....... This trail does get a little challenging so I definitely recommend a lighter pack for a longer trek on this trail. The 3400 Southwest has been working very well for me.

[@BackpackingTV]

We went about as far as we could before the snow got really deep. But yeah I think it freed up a lot in the week after our trip. Glad you got out there! I gotta go back and get deeper into the range. It's one of my favorite places!

[@MegaSusanc]

You two are just so cute. Thank you for all the hard work and time you put into these videos. It was nice to hear a girl's perspective on the backpacks, thank you for that. I like watching your adventures they're pretty cool. KEEP ADVENTURING GOD BLESS Y'ALL 🤗HUGS🤗

[@OOG2023]

Thanks so much for your vids. I've watched a lot of them and really value your opinion. I have a Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 which has been really good for day hikes and two night trips carrying around 30lb. But in October im going to be doing a 100km 4 to 5 day hike over some very rugged mountain terrain in Japan. I'm trying to weigh up whether a UL pack or a heavier feature laden pack is better. After watching this video and your comments about your shoulders, I feel the heavier, more comfortable pack is probably the way to go. On any longer hikes I've done, my shoulders complain far earlier than my legs. I've been really impressed with the reviews you've done on the Mystery Ranch 65L, so that's what I'm going for, but being in Japan it can be a little hard to find. Once I get on of those, I'll be looking out for a tent. Thanks for the great work you do.

[@backkat9475]

Thanks for the Bridger update! I'm interested. I normally use UL packs and am about to try Nashville Packs vest style. We need the women's perspective. Thank you! Just "wow" on the views. You really need to do more vids with Kristi. Y'all are a great couple!

[@BackpackingTV]

Thanks! Luckily for me Kristi likes going backpacking with me, so more will be in store!

[@freddiehill28]

Yo I absolutely love this video of you on a hike. The gear reviews and stuff are great, but this is the content I wait for!

[@flynnstone3580]

YOU GUYS MAKE A GREAT COUPLE. DO MORE 👍

[@BackpackingTV]

Thanks! We plan on it. Kristi actually likes to go backpacking, lucky me!

[@Away.Aweigh.A.Way.]

More pack makers need to adopt the Bridger’s style of harness. I day hike in a running vest purely because of how comfortable it is.

[@markcrowell2727]

Kovu was having more fun than anyone! Great video again, Eric!

[@BackpackingTV]

haha thanks! If we're outside, Kovu is having more fun than anyone else!

[@kylepec]

Usually not a huge fan of your videos, but this one was good. Kind of made you more human and less robot like.

[@BackpackingTV]

beep boop. Does not compute. ;)

[@maggiemyrtlebeach2701]

So cool!!! I just got inspired to go tent camping. Weekend warrior :).

[@SamClarkPhotographerAdventurer]

Such a fun couple! Thanks for the great video.

[@BackpackingTV]

We like each other, thanks!

[@Robert-yp9zs]

Glad to see that women are starting to get seriously involved with your reviews. In a few areas of backpacking, a woman's viewpoint will be different from a man's. This becomes more important when mixed couple want to get into backpacking.

[@viktor.egelund]

Why on earth do you put the bear canister *inside* the pack? It fits under the Y-strap on top of all HMG packs.

[@imatkingTX]

I just got my Bridger 65 and can’t wait to take it out for a trip!!! I’ve been pining over it since you introduced it on your video with DB. I wish the female packs had more “earthy” colors - I tried to get the men’s Orange pack but it just didn’t fit as well as the women’s Love your videos and appreciate your reviews!!

[@BackpackingTV]

heck yeah Tami, glad to hear it! I think you'll like the pack a lot! And yeah I have the same feedback too. The green is bright and fun, but the men's color options seem better to me. I'd like to see them go with another earthy option too.

[@platesweightspeaks]

Hold up Kristi is using the Bridger backpack in the Bridger wilderness? Perfect lol 😆 Those views were stunning! Definitely want to know more about Kovu's gear, and would love to see more of Kristi to have another woman's perspective on gear!!

[@BackpackingTV]

Right??! Almost too perfect. Didn't plan it that way though! Kovu's pack is in the description. It's from MountainSmith. It's cheaper than the Ruffwear option and we chose it because it has more ventilation. Kovu overheats very easily. It can be a little more finicky to put on, but overall it's a nice dog pack and Kovu is comfortable in it, despite how much he rolls around trying to get rid of it! He just likes to run free. Haha!

[@medicus5565]

I agree with others as to the engaging dynamic you two have on the video. You are both very informative and demonstrate exceptionally well the fun of backcountry adventures. About how many miles did you hike to your campsite? Also, I was wondering how long did it take Kovu to get comfortable with his pack? Thanks!

[@BackpackingTV]

Hey thanks! We like each other. We hiked in about 5.5 miles to that campsite. After that the snow was too deep to continue. Kovu was okay with the pack throughout the trip, but he definitely likes just running around and so he was annoyed with the lack of freedom. But the pack was great for Kovu and he knows it means adventure!

[@dallinjudy5427]

Great video thanks for sharing. Looked like a good trip really enjoyed your honest feedback on your pack sometimes that’s hard to get these days. Your face when your girlfriend was talking about lady fit issues was hilarious sometimes I make that face when my wife is talking about certain things a well. Wishing you guys many good trips in the future.

[@BackpackingTV]

haha thanks! Yeah I was laughing at my face too when I watched the clips.

[@NathanHassall]

royalty free hip hop beats + being out in the great outdoors go so well together...I think Im gonna go watch Juice after this.

[@BackpackingTV]

haha, nice. Yeah I dig the vibes of the songs here too, thanks!

[@josephreber525]

Another home run👍

[@BackpackingTV]

much appreciated!

[@jasonmcgill3904]

Nice video. I think you guys and maybe Dan Becker should come to Arkansas. Some really good stuff such as Ozarks Highlans Trail, Buffalo National River and the Richland Creek area. I think you'd really like it.

[@BackpackingTV]

Yeah I'd love to go out there sometime. It's not a place I know much about! I guess I'm okay with Dan going too.

[@jonvenden4284]

In regards to the pack this model is designed to max out at 30 lbs. With the load out that you carry I would like to see you do a review with a Porter from HMG. This has thicker foam. It is also a favorite with people that do watersports (like pack rafting, kayaking etc)meaning their pack weight isn't light. There is a 70 liter version.

[@BackpackingTV]

Nice! Yeah I'd love to try something like the Porter from them. If it could carry just a bit more weight I think I'd really like it. Also, according the website the max load is 40 lbs, which I was right around. But I definitely had it about as heavy as it should ever go.

[@trailheadjunkie]

Sounds like your Q-core reached its limits. I got my tensor with 3.5 R value down to low 30s before I started to feel the ground at 9000 feet elevation.

[@BackpackingTV]

Definitely. I guess I haven't been in tune to its limitations using mummy bags with it. If I do more topquilt sleeping, I'm definitely upgrading to a higher r value mattress.

[@taylor-1147]

Awesome video!

[@BackpackingTV]

Thank you!

[@m.hernandez1404]

Kovu going nuts.

[@BackpackingTV]

He's just a happy guy!

[@Sdiver6178]

Great video as always. Sorry if I missed it but could you list clothing you slept in?

[@BackpackingTV]

Thanks! I slept in Arcteryx long johns and my Outdoor Research sun hoodie. These aren't the exact models because the ones I've been using are out of date, but: www.outdoorresearch.com/us/mens-fleece-hoodies arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/rho-hybrid-bottom

[@Sdiver6178]

Thank you for your response!

[@douglasmoriearty1358]

You should give the Long Haul 50 by Superior Wilderness Designs with a detatchable belt a try. It's available in Ultra, designed to carry heavy loads, and tips the scale around 2 lbs.

[@DebbieWolfeMusic]

I have the women’s Bridger 55 as well!

[@BackpackingTV]

Do you concur with Kristi? What are your thoughts on it?

[@DebbieWolfeMusic]

@@BackpackingTV I am not a very experienced backpacker, and I’m still getting used to the backpack, but I feel as though it is a very comfortable pack. The running vest looks funny on me as a larger chested woman, but I thought it helped distribute the weight well. Being able to carry water in the running vest was so handy - I don’t have flexible arms and so reaching back for water bottles usually requires me to take off the pack. It was so nice not to have to do so whenever I wanted a drink. I am not sure if I have a long torso, but I’m not terribly tall, just 5’4” and the one thing I didn’t like about the Bridger was that it felt too tall on me. Perhaps if it had been a 45 or 50L pack it would fit a tad better. Overall, I’m really glad I bought it, bright green color and all.

[@hlstewart]

I love my Bridger 65 pack and it’s comfort. Have you ever tried or reviewed the Exped sleeping pads? They get some higher R values. Would also be curious to hear your thoughts on the Zenbivy sleep system sometime.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

... Looked like a good time had by all ... .. Why is it that content creators always set up camp out in the exposed areas instead of a nice tucked away spot in the trees to block the wind and weather ?? .. .. Love seeing a happy dog ..what does his name come from ?? .. Not really in the need for a new pack but kinda like that Bridger line .. but on the fence about the vest straps ... have always prefered heavy padded shoulder straps and waist belt ...but I generally carry a heavy pack .... Many backpack companies of late are pushing the UL stuff so much that straps are nothing more than webbing .... hence your sore shoulders ..

[@oliviaapolo534]

Great tips. 🙋🏽‍♀️ What is your advise for sleeping bags, for camping in fall and early spring, temperatures around lower 30 degrees F? Thank you!!

[@oliviaapolo534]

By the way I really like Cristy’s back pack.

[@phillipp1399]

I’m a huuuuuge BA fan. I have that sleeping pad that’s rated 3.something but it has made me cold again and again. Their insulation just never performs. I wish it wasn’t true but it is.

[@justnicky17]

How do you keep meat and other perishables frozen/cool when backpacking? How long would you say they should be out of a cooler?

[@michaelmorrissey765]

Could you elaborate more on the Zolio? And maybe your experience comparing to other GPS tools you’ve maybe used, like the Garmin. In this close to buying ‘something’, but it has to be functional and reliable.

[@BackpackingTV]

So the Zoleo is a great, less expensive option. It's strength is in messaging, nice interface with a cell phone and app. I really like the weather reporting function and use that heavily. However it doesn't do maps stuff. So it isn't a good option if you use it for navigating. I use CalTopo on my phone for navigating though.

[@michaelmorrissey765]

@@BackpackingTV my primary use would be in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in northern Minnesota. If your haven’t explored the BWCA, you need to put it on your bucket list. Paddle, portage, paddle, portage…set up camp…. Repeat. Any app would need to show the portages between lakes. Thanks for your insight.

[@neil9525]

Was Kristi on a BA insulated air core? Can I ask her thoughts on it? As comfy as the quilted BA mats? Thank you

[@BackpackingTV]

Kristi has been using the Rapide Air from BA. She really likes it and has been very warm on it. Only other one she's used is the Comfort Plus from Sea to Summit. She prefers this one.

[@neil9525]

@@BackpackingTV thanks very much. I thought the pad looked more orange in the video and I only say the long vertical baffle, hence why I thought it was the air core. Thank you for the response.

[@rrew9362]

What's your main heavy hike backpack for 2 to 3 days?

[@katiezender3773]

What time of year did y’all go? I’m looking to hike in Briger-Teton in mid/late may

[@johncheeseman6764]

Eric, being a Wyomingite, we were in the winds at the end of July. When did you film this.

[@BackpackingTV]

Hi John! We did this trip in late June. Seems like July is the time to be there!

[@ghost-wolf0742]

Try the HoverGlide backpack

[@lanqifei4662]

Hey Eric! For someone who’s going to carry less than 15lbs base weight. Which one would you recommend (HMG vs Mystery Ranch)

[@ethannarrow5209]

Don’t tell me this was shot on iphone… this looks so good

[@BackpackingTV]

No this was filmed on my Sony a7riii., thanks!

[@davidroberts5577]

Very nice video...✨

[@BackpackingTV]

Thanks so much!

[@davidroberts5577]

@@BackpackingTV You are most welcome 😃

[@justnicky17]

What pants are Kristi wearing? I like them alot

[@stevewright2241]

I have a question about the lifestraw filter. Will it fit inside a regular water bottle? How big is the threads on it?

[@BackpackingTV]

What kind of regular water bottle? Like a plastic cheapie? Or a Nalgene? Either way, I don't think the threads go with other containers.

[@squirrelcovers6340]

Rocking it?😂😂😂😂😂

[@lakorai2]

Gotta review a X-Mid

[@BackpackingTV]

yeah those look sweet. Haven't gotten to try one yet.

[@ethannarrow5209]

Early in the season?? When was this filmed lol

[@BackpackingTV]

Mid/late June. That's early for Wyoming apparently.

[@michaeldriggers7681]

I don't know if you said it in the video, but what time of year was this filmed?

[@BackpackingTV]

This was mid/late June. Just took me a bit to get the edit together.

[@michaeldriggers7681]

@@BackpackingTV thank you, I live in Wyoming and was just curious about the slushy snow and mud since we've had an abnormally hot summer.

[@wagon89]

What bear can were you using?

[@BackpackingTV]

We "rented" (for free) the bear can from the forest service. I'm not sure what brand it was. But it was about as big and bulky as they come!

[@threesbulls8934]

What time of year did you do this? Or did i just miss it?

[@BackpackingTV]

We were out there mid/late June.

[@threesbulls8934]

Thank you!

[@zacharyrawe2476]

So crunchy. Lol

[@FrontlineLLC]

What is the pack you use for your pup?

[@BackpackingTV]

Just updated the links to include it. But it's from Mountainsmith :bit.ly/3PKgUzq

[@jimmyhendrix4495]

Yall got some good buck teeth!

[@Matthew-px9nu]

I have an HMG , does anyone else think the chest strap is too high by default ? Noticed also really high on chest here too and made me think about it …

[@BackpackingTV]

Yeah, it's not obnoxiously high for me, but it's definitely a little high.

[@tanyabell6074]

Refreshing to hear female input. Thanks

[@BackpackingTV]

I agree. I'm glad Kristi likes backpacking will be in more videos !

[@IdRatherBeHiking]

People don't know the pain of camera gear tripod + camera you are already at 7+ lbs. Throw in a drone, filters, action cams, accessories and you are easily over 12.

[@BackpackingTV]

I definitely carry 10-12 lbs of just camera related stuff. It makes things more challenging!

[@douglasconrad8969]

Really annoying background music.