My Backpacking Layering System for 2020 + Budget Items!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

CORRECTION!!! - After weighing it for a 3rd time on a Different Scale, My (Small) Appalachian Gear Co. Hoodie came out to 9.2oz (261g) 🤦‍♂️ Moral of the Story??? Sometimes it's good to use different Scales & make sure they are calibrated 🤦‍♂️😂 Hike On, Darwin

[@Nynke_K]

Whoa! In this context, that thing is HEAVY!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

WORTH IT for me... Most Comfortable Hoodie I have found to hike in! Hike On, Darwin

[@yogistrail9723]

A nickel weighs 5 grams :) I use em to make sure my scales on.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Yep! Small... They run really big!

[@carolineriedlinger2904]

Ty, D. We love the Appalachian Gear tshirts (lighter weight than hoodies)

[@robertbarnes5839]

Darwin I’m sure you get millions of comments. But I want to say again you are an excellent presenter. You’re clear, concise and make enjoyably fun. Great Job!!

[@j.k.7595]

A few years ago when I first saw one of your videos I noticed that you were using Darn Tough socks. I thought it was just so much hype, but dang, after buying an initial pair I couldn't wait to get more! I wear merino's all year. Thanks for recommending them they rock!

[@williamkauffman8898]

Darn tough is all I wear now, awesome socks

[@AsTheWheelsTurn]

I live in central AZ which is hot as hell in the summer but still wear those socks even in summer, they are good for hot or cold weather, they are the best.

[@backpacker3421]

Yeah, any sock that is even a decent performer but has a lifetime warranty is totally worth it. But DT's outperform and outlast nearly every competitor, IMO. And when they do eventually wear out, you get a new pair for free, so over your lifetime they are definitely the cheapest option as well.

[@JoshuaEvansVoltaDesign]

Loved my DT socks, sadly after about 3-4 months lost one after a trip (fell out my bag and out of the truck)... I’m going to buy the exact same pair and keep the remaining one as an extra... best socks hands down!

[@backpacker3421]

@@JoshuaEvansVoltaDesign Have you contacted DT? I'd bet if you sent them the single they'd replace the pair. They are pretty amazing about it.

[@Xyrium]

Genius on the socks. My son refuses to wear gloves and chooses a pair of socks, he's 6...total hiking prodigy. ;)

[@tyrbaldur5317]

For those who want a budget option for socks, I actually just picked up a slightly irregular pair of Darn Tough socks at TJ Maxx for 9.99. About half the price of a pair anywhere else. They seem to have nothing wrong with them and they're incredibly warm. I love them. They also had Smartwool socks for the same price. Thank you for your reviews, Darwin!

[@RC-qf3mp]

And I got some irregular injinjis… has six toes! Jk.

[@gregseymour2941]

Tights + wind pants = worth the time to watch this video! Thanks Darwin

[@stevenqirkle]

Shorts + tights are great for hiking. Especially in light rain, where they remain comfortable and stretchy and still provide some insulation. They are also nicer to wear under rain pants than a bulkier pair of pants.

[@JDGypsy72]

I recently picked up the EE jacket, and though I knew it was lightweight, I was floored! It's amazing! I've been wearing it around the house in place of a sweater/ flannel.. my husband thinks I have lost my mind, but I love it! - Thanks for the info on the rain jacket. I had been considering buying one but have put it off with the concern that being so thin it would wear out too quickly; apparently not. Also (feeling wordy today). I have a few of the Columbia shirts. I work at an outdoor nursery and those things take a beating. I have snagged them so many times on sharp metal, and they come out just fine- virtually indestructible, but they do drape weird over time. I figure with the cost when they're on sale I'll stick with them. It's just cheaper. Great Video!

[@guitarhiker4449]

Nice laying system man! Works well for you thats what matters and some gear is not worth skimping on i agree! Mine for 3 season is: Base layer-Huk performance fishing long sleeve & T-shirt versions, Pants/shorts EMS zip offs & OR Helium 2 for rain and wind. Cold weather: Base layer- Dri-fire silk weights, Top XGO phase 5 multicam hoodie, firstlite brooks sweater dry earth/hybrid down/synth if really cold & Multicam Gortex gen 3 level 6 rain top and bottom, Pants Kuhl various versions. Darn tough socks with my lowa zephyr boots, beanie & carhartt gloves. All layers subject to change lol we all know how that is! To each his or hers own. Still always trying new things and culling gear when necessary! Thanks for sharing Darwin! Stay safe! Hike on!

[@dangeletti84]

I've had a Torrid Apex jacket for about 9 months now. It's absolutely amazing. Super comfortable, super light, super warm. If, IF, there's a downside, it's that if you're up in altitude with exposure and it's sunny, its almost too hot. It'll block the wind like a brick wall, but that sun beaming down can get toasty. Awesome jacket. Thanks for recommending it way back when!

[@DonP_is_lostagain]

my clothing changes a bit depending on the season (obvy), but since I'm in Texas, if I'm hiking here, it doesn't change too radically from place to place since we don't have any real seasons. But, one thing I always have is a shemagh. It's just too versatile. I can use it as an impromptu towel, sunshade for my noggin, extra layer for warmth, breath shield for my quilt to prevent condensation, and it can be used in any situation in place of a bandanna. Just love the thing.

[@bavarian11788]

Entertaining the way you model things. It’s think little things that make your videos so good.

[@alwatts9713]

I kinda like semi-wind-proof pants that have legs you can zip off. I can see the benefit of adding the EE wind pants to add some additional warm too.

[@tedsmith9114]

Darwin, I have found myself gravitating to your channel for the best reviews. Nice job and keep up the good work! I'm from Huntsville, Alabama and will be returning to backpacking in 2021. I have section hiked approximately 400 miles on the AT and many miles / nights on smaller trails. This was 10 - 14 years ago and excited to get on the trail again. You have helped me select my new gear. Many thanks.....

[@FyvX5]

One garment that is often overlooked, is underwear. After my military service, my choice was “none.” But, after getting (back) into hiking, the need was apparent! My brother, who was hiking a lot of beautiful mountains out in Colorado, told me that, “If you aren’t spending at least $20 on a pair of underwear, you are doing yours and injustice!” I took that advice, and a bit more research and took the plunge. My underwear of choice for hiking is Duluth Buck Naked-Extra Long. I can’t say enough good things about these skivvies!! They wick sweat- prevent chafing- and feel Amazing! To each his/her own...Just my $0.02!

[@gein2287]

The buff aka neck gaiter is the best. Especially sleeping keep your ears face warm when sleeping, keep bugs away, etc. Love hiking with knee high socks & shorts. Socks are supposedly marked "weatherproof" on them & were a gift last year, I wish I knew where to get them because they are the best socks I've ever owned for hiking/camping. I'd love to get that alpaca with a zip up. I have to bring nice cheap flip flops for long hikes just to wear around camp to air out the feet while setting up & making dinner. and late night bathroom breaks. And even on the trail desert terrain they work fine. Hey Darwin does the alpaca stretch out over time? Thanks for the great videos.

[@JaxBespoked]

My Appalachian Gear Hoodie is awesome. I don't regret the $$$ at all. Used it for a snowboarding trip as well as the backcountry.

[@davidson_oldbull_sectionhiker]

Thanks Darwin and I appreciate some of the more budget items. You are very thoughtful. Have a great weekend.

[@darksidemachining]

Lieutenant Dan: "There is one item of G.I. gear that can be the difference between a live grunt and a dead grunt. Socks. Darn Tough, Merino wool, cushioned sole, O.D. green. Try and keep your feet dry. When we're out humpin', I want you boys te remember to change your socks whenever we stop. The Mekong will eat a grunts feet right off his legs."

[@nspinicelli]

Hey Darwin, check out the "MEN'S ULTRA-LIGHT DOWN PACKABLE HOODED JACKET" from 32 Degrees. It's turned into my favorite jacket. What do you think? 1) It's only $30, so if it gets damaged/lost, it's totally fine 2) It's light and packable 3) Surprisingly warm for the price/weight! 4) Well-fitted.

[@blessedarmadillo8257]

Regarding shorts, were you at all concerned about ticks when wearing them, especially on the AT? It would seem that trail pants, when treated with permethrin, would do a better job of keeping the lyme disease causing critters away.

[@Dreoilin]

Darwin, did you know you were mentioned in a Dave Caterbury vid? Its awesome to see Bushcraft embracing light weight backpacking philosophy. Great vid!

[@isabellahelgogaard6115]

I am going to the faroe islands and I read that it is not recommended to wear anything made out of nylon when hiking there, since it will be slippery if you fall on the rocks and you might slight off the cliff into the ocean 😱 what your thoughts on this? And what about polyester then? Would polyester have the same risk? I am so confused what to wear 🤷‍♀️

[@aurtisanminer2827]

This is the time of year I always watch videos about summer activities.

[@thanielxj11]

I'm definitely going to check out those socks thanks for the tip

[@todd92371]

Was wondering if you could talk about feet and cooler temps with trail runners? plastic bags, just socks, waterproof socks.... ect ect? I have started carrying seal skinz if there is snow or slush. But, used to use plastic bags and they worked fairly well. Was just wondering how you plan for your feet, trail runners and various temperature situations. THANKS. Keep walking. :)

[@elizabethingram9784]

Thanks for including items for the budget conscious. 🌟💫

[@BikeTall]

For hiking pants, i like the Columbia Silver ridge zip off cargo pants. Ya got your shorts & long pants in one garment. Very convenient. Super comfy & they dry fast.

[@ferdonandebull]

I like the Columbia shirts. I got into my clan affiliation and purchased a kilt. I have two that I hike in. One is a wool nylon blend and the other is made of all man made fibers. Both feel the same. Anyway... the wool blend sheds water very well and drys pretty well. The second does everything pretty well. They are easy to take off in a tent, you don’t stink of crotch sweat as bad, they ventilate very well . I can’t believe I never wore one of these before in the weeds. Mine have four large pockets.. which is kind of over kill..

[@johneason6540]

Always enjoyable. Got to say I'm a smartwool sock fan and the smartwool qtr. Zip base layer for my primary shirt, that and my OR rain wind jacket takes me everywhere.

[@chrisbell7740]

I love that you are going to do the Canadian trail. I am over in ontario but wish I could jump over for a week with you.

[@jcoats5529]

Arcteryx makes some of the best clothing available. Great company.

[@evanschlarb499]

I have learned to embrace the fact that I typically end up purchasing 85% of the same gear you use. Thank you for another solid video-

[@ronaldrose7593]

Hello Darwin, thank you for sharing this great gear review. You are a legend in the hiking community. All the best to you out there on the trail. 🤗

[@adventurebythemile]

Can you show what Snuggles uses? That would be helpful for us females 😁

[@johneason6540]

Agreed

[@KimberlyGreen]

Yes! Please.

[@sheilaoregan8746]

Yes! I’d be interested in knowing too.

[@tamarablanke6358]

Especially her recommendations on underclothes.

[@hollyt1673]

Oh yeah you can’t leave us high and dry

[@josegomez-no1up]

I recommend you also pick up a pair of shoes. :)

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

🤔... Now that's a Great Idea!

[@jmoe32310]

We weren't meant to wear shoes anyway

[@davidbarclay3651]

Have you ever looked into a rain kilt? Works great for summer.

[@alanc4264]

I prefer snap fasteners to buttons any time, especially when it is cold, much easier to fasten and undo. Not many brands do them in the UK where I live so not much choice. My body shape doesn't lend itself much to fitted shirts, it's not just the waist line but the arms are always too tight. I also like my shirts to have 2 pockets with zip or snap fasteners. One thing not many people seem to think about in relation to bugs. IAccording to what I have researched bugs prefer darker colours so one of my requirement is for a beige coloured shirt instead the darker ones that most brands seem to sell. Thanks for the video great to look at other people's choices and ideas.

[@WorldviewOutdoors]

Liked the combination layering. We were taught this when I was stationed at Ft. Wainwright AK. I like the hoodie idea. I bought one from PAKA Apparel. Still use my EE Torrid Apex Jacket too. Definitely use the shorts when I'm trail running.

[@michaelb1761]

Another budget option that also protects your pack and covers at least part of your legs is a rain poncho. Not something that you would want to use anywhere there is the potential for snagging on brush but a very well ventilated and lightweight option otherwise. My Gatewood Cape is 10 oz and doubles as a tarp shelter.

[@TXMEDRGR]

My favorite outfitter is Goodwill and other local resale shops. If you are willing to check around, there is a lot of good stuff in these types of shops. I even got my hiking poles, sleeping bag and shoes there.

[@obiwanjacobi]

My Buffalo Active Light shirt is still serving me well after 10 years of regular use. It's wind proof but not water proof. If it rain you will get wet - but you will stay warm if you keep moving. Its good till around freezing with moderate level of activity (riding my bike to work - 11 miles in 45 minutes).

[@bro7269]

Damn, I need to give up my other expensive hobbies so I get into another expensive hobby.

[@popdorito]

Based on your username I'm guessing you've also fallen into the expensive rabbit hole of being a guitarist 🤣

[@supersoni126]

Was your hoodie a little itchy when you got it? Does the itchiness become less after being washed? I just got mine and it’s kinda scratchy.. also mine is like a husky dog it’s shedding all over my clothes.

[@brandonmctaggart5901]

SOOO, with the liner in the shorts you hike commando??? always looking at underwear options with some of my chaffing issues

[@BoomerFZ1]

Valcom, Hurley, Scott, etc. have been putting out some AWESOME hybrid shorts. Almost like a casual swim trunk. So comfy and quick drying.

[@godking_ginge]

Almost 2 years later...how'd that arcteryx work out for ya? Recommend it?

[@vitaflo]

SNAPS! I was totally wondering what that shirt was in a prior video and I didn't even know it was a snap shirt! All of my other shirts are snaps so that Arcteryx shirt is an absolute must-buy for me.

[@Roger-ny9xr]

Great video. Thanks for sharing your experience in what works well for you. Always nice to hear what others are wearing as part of their system and why they like each piece of clothing.

[@lewigas290]

Can you remember what colours you chose for the Torrid Apex jacket you wear. The interior looks like burnt orange but I can’t make out the exterior colour. Thanks buddy and looking forward to your next vid already.

[@ropersix]

Based on the Columbia Silverridge I bought last year, it also seems to be made from different fabric than in the past. It's a little "slipperier" and not as comfortable. I have four other ones from over the years, with one of them being about 10 years old and still going strong. I just don't understand why companies mess with a good thing. So I'll have to check out that Arcteryx, even though I don't like snaps as much as buttons.

[@trytheoutdoors]

Excellent. Excellent. Excellent. Thank you so much for all your efforts. Inspirational.

[@ron2serve]

@6:47 what is the brand of the backpack?

[@ovidiuschiopu5758]

Love your videos! Inspiring. I've hiked the HST and JMT combo twice and always had too much gear 'just in case! It doesn't look like you bring any extras except for socks. Have you ever been in a situation where everything was wet and cold and wished you had a dry set of clothes? What are your thoughts?

[@VikingsNetworkAdmin]

I’m not a shorts guy, always wear pants. Wrangler has a number of outdoor pants both light weight and medium to heavy weight. Good cheap alt. I have about 1000 miles on the light weight pants and think a paid under $20!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

NICE!!! Gotta use what works for you! Hike On, Darwin

[@AJHart-eg1ys]

I go with Kuhl Renegade convertible pants, but if I know I won't be unzipping the legs, I go with those $22 Wrangler stretch pants at Walmart. Those are great hikers. And if you have one too many Ramen bombs along the trail, again, stretchy. :)

[@wildgypsywomen2340]

I just found your channel and I love the information you share. I love that you explain why you may have previously used something and now have changed. I am also so excited to see you on the Colorado Trail. It’s right in my backyard and I’ve decided that may be my very first thru hike....when I can figure out how to leave my job and kids for a while. Lol thanks again!!!!

[@adamf.4823]

What camera did you use for this? The quality is incredible.

[@lorismith8479]

I am long torso too....hard to find hoodies that are long enough....Thanks for sharing that product! Cheers

[@venicebeachsurfer]

How come you don't go with the Merino Wool stuff?

[@josh5072]

I admire you dudes sporting Zpacks Vertice gear as your only hardshell pants/jacket. I would love the weight reduction but just can't bring myself to do it, especially since I use a down jacket that I want to be damn sure stays dry. I use a goretex pro shell and paclite pants. I could get by with thinner options in the Eastern Sierras but bombproof > oz's, at least for now. And, my trips are 5 nights max, so I'm not carrying this stuff thousands of miles. However, I do try to cut weight every trip so I may get there eventually!

[@mountainwilliam2979]

365 days a year in Arizona desert with steel toe work boots. 3 pair of darn tough socks, still going strong after 4 years. Average 8 miles a day on my feet, also weekend warrior hiker. They are the best friggin' socks ever. Where did I learn this? Darwin of course.

[@WasatchWill]

Just used your budget link for that Frog Togg rain jacket to try out this season after using their UltraLite the last few years (amazingly still no tears, but I'm more a weekend warrior and haven't had to use it very often). Wish I could afford that Vertice, but getting too much other new stuff for this season. If it fails or I don't like it, I'll consider moving up to the Anti-Gravity Gear rain jacket, then start saving up for the Vertice in case I'm still not satisfied with either of the first two.

[@patrickhasachannel]

Darwin, I'll be traveling to Ireland & Iceland this May (2020) and I could use some advice on layering. I'll definitely be investing in those capilene tights and the alpaca hoodie any other advice for layering?

[@birkins1]

I’m a big shorts and tights guy also. Tried it once and never went back! Other than that it’s a pritty similar setup. Patagonia long sleeve capilene t shirt. RAB xenon insulated jacket. And black diamond storm line waterproof And that’s about it. Currently debating a second mid layer like the Patagonia r1 techface hoody.

[@rmeugne]

Sounds like a weird question...but do you wear a liner with the shorts of cut them out?

[@outsideroob1071]

Thanks for this video, its basically an xmas list to give to my family for me.

[@arabica571]

Lol

[@AnnasPagesandReads]

Do you think about purchasing additional Darn Tough socks in an effort to continue supporting a company you like through giving them additional revenue? It seems like a lot of hikers use (and sometimes abuse) the warranty and never actually purchase again from Darn Tough. Truly curious about your thoughts on this.

[@cgriggsiv]

Awesome hiking duds As you said before it's a personal preference whatever works for you Keep up the great hikes

[@karlarsch1627]

in general, is wearing off by a backpack a problem, if you carry 20 pounds + on your shoulders for a long time?! For example that really nice alpacashirt.

[@francisc1854]

Dude, for shorts check out Brooks Sherpa. Two stretchy (gel pack) pockets on either side fits my phone, snacks, and a pack of smokes (don’t judge). There’s also a obscured zippered pocket in back and yet another inside for a key I guess. They’re my go to shorts now. But yeah those stretchy pouches on the side keep everything nice and tight on me so I’m not worried about losing anything.

[@YahshuaLovesMe]

Tshirts and Sweatshirts are great and soft cloth jeans, and sweat pants for sleeping. You are good at socks... I love thick soft warm cozy socks.

[@asankam]

Hi Darwin, how tall are you and what size of Vertice rain jacket & pants does it fit you best? Just trying to understand what size i should be getting. Thanks!

[@jeremybingamon1577]

Looking into getting into back packiny, right now just a day hiker. Question on when you do multi day hikes and cover a hundred miles or more. How do you get to the start of the trail and back? Rent a car, have someone drop you off or pick you up?

[@pvtperkins1455]

Thanks for all the last minute help! Hope to run into ya on the AT this season

[@Geoffrey454]

Tell you what though, a pair of really good boxers and hiking trousers really does help you feel more comfortable while you're hiking, especially in humidity

[@chrisbenitez6548]

Do you do winter backpacking? I'd be interested to know what your layering system is for the winter time, do you try to keep it relatively ultralight, or just go overboard to stay warm?

[@bryanknight5347]

Does the short liner work out for you? Trying to decide between shorts with liners vs moisture wicking underwear......

[@ericman3234]

Whatcha wearing underneath that nike challenger. Boxers? Any special type?

[@gourdzpaperco]

I'd love to know the base layers your life hikes in as well as some of the gear she carries.

[@gourdzpaperco]

Wife*

[@bournejerz3938]

Thanks for sharing options for clothing that works for your build.

[@truegrite2825]

I’m 6’4” at 250 Lbs and L L Bean clothes and Columbia clothes work well for me for hiking and camping.

[@dallasfoster2149]

Assuming you would have mentioned boxers if you wear them, does this mean you don't wear boxers of any kind on trail?

[@NostalgicLink]

The shorts have a liner, so probably not.

[@LauraDeVasconcelos]

could u please say something about compression socks, knee support, heel cups, and all those physical aid gear some people might need along the trails, but no one seem to be talking about em ?! thx

[@suzanneng5326]

I love my darn tough socks, and for some reason my smartwool and injinjis have gotten holes in them, but never my darn tough. Still waiting for the day I actually get to exchange my darn toughs!

[@pvtperkins1455]

Suzanne Ng take a shot every time they say “darn tough”

[@russellinthebush2897]

I have the standard Columbia Silverridge shirt, not the LT. I've backpacked over 3500 miles in it (PCT, CT, TRT, Wonderland Trail, etc) and it's still good. It just got blackened from the PCT so doesn't look that great anymore and I had to sew on a button once. The LT doesn't seem to compare, longevity wise.

[@rogervancleave8670]

Thanks Darwin! Great info. Curious how your clothing differs for bikepacking? Other than adding some padded shorts, it looks like most of your clothing selections would also work for bikepacking.

[@yogistrail9723]

Hey Darwin, noticed you're rocking that 6D2 on your thru-40 via a peak designs clip. What are your thoughts on hiking with a DLSR? I'm starting to put together a system similar to yours (5D2 w/ 17-40 or nifty 50) and am thinking of just bringing that system on 2-3 day trips or on trips where weight is not much of a consideration. Do you ever carry a lightweight tri-pod? Thanks Darwin!

[@inediblemangoes7797]

This was super informative!

[@backpacker3421]

+1 for Patagonia Capilene baselayers. They are fantastic and worth every penny.

[@aikirunner]

I’ve always wondered. Why wear shorts over tights? If you want to remove your tights, you have to take both the shorts and tights off and then out the shorts back on. Sounds like too much trouble to me.

[@davidmarbut]

Why wouldn't you add the vertice rain mitts for added rain, wind protection?

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

I have some... Might end up throwing them in. Carried them on the PCT last year & never really did use them. Hike On, Darwin

[@memathews]

I'll be interested in your thoughts on Capilene stink after a few weeks use. Seems as if all the synthetic base layers succumb to the funk after a few days and it becomes permanent after a few weeks.

[@xxxccc4034]

Do you still go with shorts in snowy areas

[@mandywilleford8697]

I always take my smart wool buff and since I primarily hike in cooler temps, my black rock down beanie:)

[@alexboccio6446]

be careful if you replace those nike shorts! They "updated" the liner and it's way too narrow, read some reviews you'll see what I mean. Glad you got a few pairs of the older/better version!

[@xavierleyland8402]

Thanks for the video Darwin, Can you let me know the size of the Vertice jacket and pants you're wearing?

[@davidcapalbo5002]

What if you have to use a bear canister?

[@scottb6483]

If you are anti rain pants like I am you should keep the wind pants and just add a rain kilt! More comfortable and versatile and probably weigh less combined than the rain pants! :)

[@varde6965]

Just a quick tip Darwin, since you are into shorts. you should really check out Amundsen Sports Vagabond knickerbockers. They are super comfy and made out of linen, so when it does get wet, they dry super quick. I use them myself. and won't hike with anything else.

[@mdb3601]

I realize that you tend to go with a long sleeve shirt, but, just to mention it, have you considered the Patagonia Bandito shirt? Ventilation and Snaps. And on a lighter note, as a kid, I grew up in Scotland. Next time you're in Scotland you really need to get a kilt to hike in!! Now that would be a video worth watching. Thank you for all the great videos!