Gear to AVOID! And What You Should Get Instead.

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

*Gear I would Avoid:* MSR Freelite: geni.us/9CCOW BA Prospector: geni.us/KGGb4fe Insulated V: geni.us/xv9Bn Jetboil: geni.us/fwXq5lh Flexlite Air: geni.us/t5kqG *Gear I would Get Instead:* Exos Pro 55: geni.us/OlmFdC MSR Windburner: geni.us/i8ez Pocket Rocket Deluxe: geni.us/1YRnL Pocket Rocket: geni.us/raKi Toaks Pot: geni.us/yMC4t BA Rapide: geni.us/Qu8G5 Chair Zero: geni.us/LR2hUH MHW Strato: geni.us/vQic0

[@MrRoosterfoot]

Just out of curiosity I have a toaks pot and a soto amicus stove and the pot seems to let off a real bad smell when I have used it. Is this normal ?

[@aapottaone]

i love my jet boil. while your drinking instant coffee, im using the french press option

[@Skanda5000]

my company is capable of changing the paddings of backpacks and customize these to your needs.

[@jjhikespa3600]

I love my Jetboil and I have never spilled a pot of boiling water on me due to the locking feature of the system, a very important safety feature in the backcountry. Most of your choices are a pass for me which just emphasizes how everyone has their own preferences and priorities in choosing their gear.

[@matador483]

Totally agree. The jetboil is fuel efficient, safe, fairly light and I’ve never had any issues. It’s a weird take on this vid. And I’m a professional backcountry guide.

[@Gandhiownsyou]

To each their own, but I’ve never spilled a pot of boiling water on myself either due to the safety feature of I don’t spill boiling water on myself. It’s not terribly difficult or complicated to just set up your stove on a reasonably flat, level surface. Totally fine if it’s important to you to have extra safety checks, but it’s also a valid opinion to think that it’s overkill, and a lighter, smaller, cheaper system is perfectly adequate.

[@MakeCriminalsIllegalAgain]

​@@Gandhiownsyoujetboils the only one that allow you to do peppamint hot chocolat in the tent, IN the sleeping bag, no worries to spill it boss

[@andrewcheng1998]

@@matador483 tbh it sounds less cool to use jet boil rehydrate/boil food than actually cook something in an easier route.

[@jonnythelegs2597]

He's only really slating the fact that the build quality doesn't really meet the cost well compared to others, in use it is a very efficient design and I agree the build quality of the actual burner does feel a little on the entry level side, the pots tho can't really fault them.

[@willeverett9233]

My wife and I are set on our gear, with no need to buy anything soon. Yet here I am watching the whole video. I love your content. Thanks for all your work you do for this community!

[@WoodswomanWrites]

Same here. I enjoy these videos that are both informative and fun.

[@Ukraineaissance2014]

I've always used army surplus and love it.

[@mikedaknight8854]

There’s always fabulous new gear to admire

[@brandonwilliams2431]

It's a man thing

[@antine1279]

I'm a woman and I still do it

[@TH-sp5xw]

Years ago I bought a cheap 2lb chair from Amazon for about $25. Last year I bought the Flexlite from REI on sale at $60. I found it to be unstable. So I took the base from my Amazon chair and put the flexlite seat onto that and now I have a REALLY comfy and sturdy 1.5lb chair.

[@gwkiv1458]

What was the name of the Amazon chair? Matchway?

[@TH-sp5xw]

Sunyear

[@blisterbill8477]

Jetboil owner for a long time. I started using it on a 500 mile section hike of the AT in 2006. Never had a problem with it and I always got more boiled water for each can of fuel. I’ve used other brands and stoves. Gonna keep my jet oil.

[@f804.de.ruyter]

And here i am not complaining about my hardware tarp with holes in it and having a blast

[@rimfirejunkie7427]

Another JetBoil lover here. Paired with a Maxpedition 12x5 pouch I can carry the Flash, spare canister of fuel, some spices utensils etc and keep it all protected.

[@edoubleu9870]

Link to pouch?

[@nilredowski]

2:46 I have a jetboil and i've been using it for over 3 years on different hikes. I highly recommend.

[@creightonbarkved]

Buddy I've been boiling water with mine for...this will be season 14. No complaints from me with Jetboil.

[@seanmcguire2463]

Jetboil forever.

[@michaelbutler1557]

Same.

[@Erik_The_Viking]

I bought the JetBoil when it came out in 2002. Still using it on trail and never had an issue with it. Sure I could go lighter if I wanted but not worth it.

[@brianlevine249]

Exactly the Jetboil downvote has to just be him trolling. And he suggested the MSR Windburner instead. Which is like $190

[@bjf10]

I love my Jetboil stash. I got it on sale for under $100 a few years ago, and it's super efficient, fairly lightweight, and has a bunch of features I really appreciate like the fact that the pot "locks" in to the burner, dramatically reducing the likelihood of spills. It's not perfect, but it's a nice balance of weight and features for me.

[@elflakeador09]

Ive had my jetboil flash for over 13 years now and I find it to be of excellent quality and doesnt feel cheap at all. Feels extremely rugged and has stood the test of time

[@themissile3120]

The Klymit V pads are meant to be used with a standard sleeping bag that has full insulation on the bottom. The grooves allow the bag to expand and insulate as opposed to being flattened and useless like on most other pads. From what I understand, you use a quilt these days. I think this is why you see such hot and cold reviews on the V's, it's not clearly advertised enough that their R-value claims are equivalent when used with the bag type that it was designed for but not for other setups.

[@tylerslater9448]

The tarp tent double rainbow DW 2023 fits two wide pads and is only ~2.5 lbs. Can be made fully free standing w/ trekking poles too if you need to pitch on rock or in a place where you can’t stake it out well.

[@brucefehr6407]

I have used the Klymit V multiple times in 20 F weather, always stayed warm.

[@krantzjr.6093]

Same. Never had an issue with it, always very comfy and more durable than just about anything else.

[@mr_cleaner_upper8645]

I have a Freelite2…. When I grab the zipper to open up, I give it a few pulls, the water drips off the door and I open the door and no water enters. It isn’t an issue at all. I’ve done this same thing in every tent I’ve ever owned (because I am tall and always brush against the fly getting in and out) to minimize water getting on me. I am gobsmacked reviewers have not figured out this one simple trick.

[@alisonmlewis4825]

Yes, my first thought when he mentioned the water coming in when he opened the door was “Why doesn’t he just give the door a few taps to dislodge the water before opening it?”. It would only take a second. Sure, it would be better not to need to do it, but it’s hardly a deal-breaker.

[@ESCAPETheGreatOutdoors]

I use a Klymit insulated static V on a regular basis down to 0°C where based on my personal experiences the limit is reached. I on my behalf would still recommend the static V down to 5°C without any hesitation making it a decent affordable lightweight small packing 3-season sleeping pad.

[@LaconianConcepts]

I couldn’t agree more! I bought it as a placeholder for a more expensive pad as I don’t sleep on the ground often… but I was pleasantly surprised. It was really comfy and kept me warm into the low 40s/high 30s F without much work. Honestly I love my flex light chair too… and I don’t personally use a jetboil but all my friends I backpack with do and I have no problem with it as a system. In fact I use the same pocket rocket deluxe and toaks combo he mentions in the video (highly recommend and I have a dedicated video on that subject in fact). It just goes to show you preferences are 90% of what is “good”.

[@nicholasmapes]

I think bag choice has a huge impact, that being said, ive had my static V insulated luxe down below freezing and havnt had an issue. For the size/weight/price its a great option. Spend more and get a better one, but in my experience the klymit meets my needs

[@michaeldc951]

Agreed. I bought one when I first got into backpacking as gear was expensive. It was a great pad and only replaced it to get something wider since I’m pretty broad, but I used it for years with no issue. I will say it wasn’t great when I switched to a quilt instead of a bag

[@GeorgeBeck100]

Thank you for your advice on the MSR Freelite 2. If the only thing you can find wrong with the tent is water off the rain fly (which is easily solved with a slap) then this must make it the best semi freestanding tent in the world !!! I'm gunna buy it and just give it a good slap now and then 🙂

[@datdankdj8264]

Someone else in this comment section said “modern problems sometimes require monke solutions” and that’s more or less the best way to sum up how to fix that problem

[@Overworkt]

Such a good take 😅

[@bobbyenglish7803]

I just feel that it's something they should have noticed during product testing. MSR aren't the only one's with this problem though, many other tents have the exact same (non?) issue.

[@thomsontroy]

I purchased my Jetboil 13 years ago and is still going great

[@fischy_boy_]

I was on an expedition with canadian army cadets this summer and we used the msr freelight and the jetboil. He was right about the tent there was one day where it was raining and the water seeped through the ground tarp and got me and my tent mate wet and when we opened the door it got our heads all wet. The jet boil we absolutely loved though. We had another stove and for 90% of the expedition we used the jet boil and it never failed us once. We were a team of 6 people (not including the lt because he had his own) and each time we used it it boiled two meals worth of water so we were using it 18 times a day for two weeks and it only went through 1 and a half fuel tanks and always boiled our water within 5 mins.

[@izaak1509]

Have used a jetboil on a few motorbike camping trips and it’s been great.

[@Maritimer]

Another option for a camping chair I have, and have had for years is the Sportneer, I believe it's like a Chinese knock off of the expensive one you have, but I beat the heck out of it and its probably 6+ years old now, still holds up good. Thanks for the video. Cheers !

[@dez410]

I'd like to vouch for the Klymit Insulated Static V...I have used this 4.4 R rated pad with a 15 degree sleeping bag multiple times in temps between 1-10 degrees Fahrenheit and had absolutely no issues what so ever other than my nose getting cold (outside of the bag). I used it inside a tent as well as on top of the snow with a military surplus bivy. I liked it so much I bought a second one as a backup. This is coming from a guy who also has the thermarest X therm and still will use the Static V above zero degrees over the thermarest due to comfort. Just IMO, and I am in no way, shape, or form affiliated with Klymit.

[@Eli-234]

I agree, it's still a budget pad, but it does the job and is pretty decent value for money. I've been down to similar temps, and It starts to become uncomfortable or me around -15C.

[@UnderbeIIy]

I’ve used mine in temps of -20/-25C (-4/-13f). 12 day stay so we had the luxury of prepping our area before setup

[@67L48]

If I test my product and it has a rating of 1.9 but then I put a sticker on that product that says 4.4, what is my product rated? The answer is somehow 4.4, apparently.

[@dragonwisard]

@@67L48 I don't actually care what the real numerical r-value is. I use an insulated Static V because it keeps me warm in cold temperatures and I sleep comfy. If it didn't, I would replace it. The "can I sleep comfortably" test is the only metric that matters to me. As a bonus, it packs up a lot smaller than other pads I've tried, which matters more to me than the weight (mine is not the UL variant).

[@67L48]

@@dragonwisard Cool story. Not sure why you're telling me about it, though.

[@mikekingswood]

Nice to see unbiased reviews! I sometimes wonder if the people who design outdoor kits, actually do any of these activities 🤔 One of my bugbears, is tents with a door that falls inwards, especially during rain.

[@Andy-Mesa]

You failed to mention the REI Flexlight Air is lighter than the Helinox, and twice the leg angle which for some (like me) is more comfortable. I also like the fabric better on the REI. Ryan Jordan of Backpacking Light did an amazing video 4 years ago comparing the two chairs, and ultimately it comes down to personal preference and body metrics.

[@paulhad9823]

I am 180 lbs and had the REI Flexlight break the first time I used it.

[@SunkenCitiesMusic]

I personally prefer the front to back under support of the flexlite because it’s more stable when you lay back. Both are fine chairs I do agree it’s preference. I often don’t take chairs backpacking because I hammock camp, but if I know I’ll sleep on the ground… I bring the flexlite!

[@Minette203]

5'7 110 lbs woman here who is always freezing (I sleep in a wool hat even during summer camping) and I never had an issue with the Klymit V's heat rating. Been getting my best trail sleep with it actually! however i use a sleeping bag, not a quilt.

[@michaelbutler1557]

What is that in Metric? We are not all stuck in the 1960’s.

[@TFBlack-ix2cs]

I understand your points with the jetboil but I can say I had one for 7 years and 2 deployments with the Marines and still use it to this day while doing storm work for the power company. I’m sure there are better options but it has served me well

[@GryphonIndustrial]

Can confirm on the insulated static V. That being said I got mine cheap so I'll keep it for a summer pad but its definitely not great below freezing. Got four hours of sleep in 18 degrees but was in a four season tent and a sleeping bag rated below 0 degrees.

[@osvaldopulido2553]

I've slept on mine at around 26F in a 0F bag in a summer tent with no issues multiple times.

[@vincentlabelle6749]

My girlfriend used it at -40c in northern Canada and had no issues at all

[@meldosify1085]

I’ve used the insulated static V down to about 18F with a 0F bag and been fine. I should also add that I run cold when I sleep, so I think it must be pretty effective. Because I run cold, I don’t camp colder than 18F because then I’d need to shell out for a -20F bag just to get to 0F.

[@wandaesch7314]

I am a cold sleeper, 66 yo female, and used the same klymit pad in Iceland on top of windy cold mountain and it kept me warm, so think you are wrong on this. It also doesn’t make crinkly noises.

[@D9-do1xw]

I have the Prospector 50L, and I feel as though it's vastly over-criticized. It's a solid bag with great functionality and storage spaces. The Nalgene-sized water bottle holders are fantastic, and I love the fact that I can take the hip pouches off at convenience. I did get mine on clearance for about 100 bucks, so had I paid full price, I might be more liable to complain. In regards to the padding issue, I find the more I've worn it, the more the padding breaks in. You can massage the padding with your thumbs around your contact points when you first purchase it, which i've found helps to 'break in' the strap padding. The only gripe that I have with the bag, is that I haven't found a great way to utilize the positioning of the mounting loops. This might be my inexperience with attachments on bags, but I feel as though some of the loops for mounting foam pads, tents, etc., to be a little difficult to utilize without creativity. Happy hikes!

[@idkidkidk325]

i use the prospector too and i agree that all the negative reviews are so so nitpicky and it seems like people are trying to hate the bag before liking it.

[@tomasstomjenkins]

5’6” 150lb guy here and the Flexlite Air works AMAZING for us smaller people. Don’t skip it if you are smaller.

[@techguy9023]

I like the Caldera cone. On an early Spring hike my Jetboil burner ( like a Pocket Rocket burner only) wouldn't vaporize the fuel. Yes alcohol is slower but the cone was a great wind shield. We were able to make a dehydrated breakfast in below freezing temperatures.

[@LukePesce]

Ok. He has some good points, and to be fair, I’ve never tried the windburner, but I’ve had the jetboil for years and I love it. The jetboil flash, which I assume is the competition to the windburner, is also about 50 bucks cheaper.

[@johnphillips3526]

Couldn’t disagree more with your opinion on the Flexlite chair. I own 2 of them.

[@Justin-Walsh]

Same here. I used both before buying and chose the REI because it felt more stable. It's been great.

[@TerryWindell]

Great video - thanks for the heads up! On the tent door issue about having to "bend in half" to reach the zipper on the fly on some when you're inside - just tie a short piece of paracord to the zipper that's long enough to reach when you unzip the inner door and and then pull up (or over) on the paracord to open the outer fly. Works like a charm for me.

[@totoroben]

Ollicamp and firemaple make pots with heat distribution fins and are a lot cheaper than a jetboil, and lighter too. I will always go with a heat distribution pot because they heat faster and with less fuel which is a big plus whether you are using a twig stove, alcohol stove, or canister stove.

[@STAR-RADIANCE]

My Marmot Limelight has a rain fly like that, I just tap it in a few spots and the rain runs off. Not sure if that’ll work on the MSR but if it good in all other areas, it’s worth taking the time to tap on the rain fly.

[@brettfichtner8407]

About that insulated mattress: the R value is different than the RSI value because they are different units. R is imperial (ft2·°F·h/BTU), RSI is metric (m2·K/W)

[@yansakovich]

4.4 R equals to 0.775 RSI. So, that is not an explanation.

[@redblackthorn]

I own a flexlite chair, 100% agree, though you missed the worst aspect, the switch in direction makes it incredibly easy to topple, I've never seen someone sit in the chair for more than 10 minutes without tipping over

[@brycewalburn3926]

I'm also gonna defend the flexlite air. I think it's a great chair and just as comfortable as the chair zero. It does feel different, but not worse in my opinion. I got mine for $50 new and would happily buy it again before dropping $150 on the chair zero. Whereas the issue with the MSR tent is clearly a problem, I think the difference between these chairs is much more subjective, but I completely understand your position. I'd urge people to go down to REI and try both before you form an opinion. Also, I believe you were mistaken in saying that the chair zero is lighter.

[@HippieHikerChik]

I agree about the REI chair. I’ve had mine for 5-6 years. The biggest flaw for me is that it’s quite unstable. I added the Helinox to my kit last year and have been much happier.

[@bryankyle9865]

Had my REI chair for at least 5 years. 200lbs and have never felt like a taco. Super comfortable!

[@wolfeadventures]

Flexlite Air is fantastic especially on sale.

[@gmarcos95]

I’ve taken my non-insulated static V pad out to sub freezing temps in Korea and Japan, had no issues with a proper sleeping bag and Bivvy. Individual preference > sweeping judgments saying that it’s not worth it.

[@benjaminjeanes998]

I used both flex lite and zero chairs a lot. And in shifty sand or soil or uneven land I found the REI chair's side to side tilting is easier to control than the zero having front to back tipping

[@colinheyl7245]

I absolutely love my Jetboil. It's served me very well so far.

[@GoodkatNW]

Super strange to see the flex lite listed here. We own two, and at least a few of our friends also have them. After 30+ trips over the past year, there is zero damage and everyone has found them incredibly comfortable (we also got them for around $70 during a sale). Feeling premium and actually being durable aren't always the same; our Zero had bent poles and a hole in the pocket after less than 6mo (and nobody over 190lb sat in it).

[@ronin3377]

He’s a little on the heavy side so that is probably why he feels those poles he complained about. I’ve had both and I prefer the REI

[@takl23]

Came here to say to say the same thing. The rei chair is comfortable and light. I’m built like a running back and weigh 210lbs and I’m fine with it. 😊

[@GoodkatNW]

@@ronin3377 Yeah, I've noticed that he advises against certain items because of a very specific (and individual) dislike that doesn't affect most people. Another example was complaining about great 2p tents because they don't fit 2x extra wide/long pads. If people didn't ever buy items that don't fit large/extra large folks, the vast majority of backpacking gear wouldn't ever be recommended.

[@lennardbreevaart7827]

@@GoodkatNW He gives his opinion which is great because it gives me perspective. You don't have to agree with his reasoning but it's nice to have certain details highlighted. Not a generic AI generated pros and cons you can find on every hikersblog. And with everything on the internet, take it with a grain of salt :)

[@morganleanderblake678]

Hey Moosejaw: This sponsor ad actually made me excited to buy from your company. Keep this guy.

[@tanvach]

I have both Helinox zero and flexlite air chair. I actually prefer the flexlite air when sitting, it feels less pinched by the aluminum poles when I sit and also weighs less. One problem is that it takes more space to pack up.

[@phd001]

I have that static v pad and have used in many time down to freezing levels and had no problems. I find it really comfortable too. I do use a foil ground cloth under it though so that’s bound to reflect some warmth.

[@bensmart1545]

I have the MSR Freelite 3 and I'm pretty happy with it. The build quality is good. You can strengthen it with extra guylines, and it's surprisingly sturdy is you spend $30 for some groundhog stakes. I've heard this comment about the rainfly opening over the tent floor before. Used my Freelite on a few very rainy trips and.... you just don't open the rainfly all the way? Just open it 2/3rds of the way, that's enough room to get in and out and no water gets into your tent. Made that part of the video very preplexing to be honest.

[@Dante07cid]

I love my Jetboil(s)! Also have FireMaple equivalents. Like them both.

[@Steven-kj7xq]

I have the FireMaple one and it's great.

[@leslifullerton-pacis2180]

I also love the FireMaple I've now had for years ❤

[@spencerpearson1321]

I use the static five insulated Luxe and I love it for winter camping. Winter is usually when I camp the lightest. I have a tarp that’s a space blanket on one side and I usually set all my gear on one side of the Mylar then fold the tarp over and pin it with two stakes through the corner grommets. with that set up I usually only need a wool blanket And some pillows down to like 10° and my mummy bag if its colder

[@thomasspotzl4240]

The Klymit R-Value is supposed to be in combination with a full spleeping bag that will fill in the gaps in the pad structure. The ASTM rating is just for the pad itself, which will not do the job. I'm not sure it will do the job with a down sleeping bag either but that is the claim.

[@Ellie-rx3jt]

The thing that I think makes it still a dodgy claim though, is that the non insulated static V has the same chamber design, so the difference between the warmth of the two should still be tiny.

[@logictd567]

I have to disagree with your review of the REI chair. The chair weighs 1lb and is just as comfortable if not even more than the Helinox chair. I feel like I sink down with the Helinox chair. Both the seat material and REI chairs material felt very similar. Also, you can replace the REI seat fabric for 20 bucks or less during sales. Affordable does not mean poor quality in this instance. I find it hard to justify a $150 chair.

[@wisenber]

I'm not a big fan of sleeping on the ground, but my Klymit is one of the few ways to be relatively comfortable as they are about the only ones wide enough for someone with broad shoulders. A 25 inch pad has my shoulders drooping off the sides causing my arms to fall asleep.

[@782hrr]

I’ve had the same gear for years… if it works..it works.. Msr hubba …jet boil…Kelly metal frame 70…the only upgrades I’ve made is for hot tenting and bought an alpaca wool blankets and made anarak out of it

[@rdh2059]

Regarding Tents, I'll stick with the Big Agnes Copper Spur 2. It's heavier, but has never failed me. I picked it up the first week they were available and have never looked back. Next will be one that I can use in conjunction with my trekking poles... Regarding Stoves, there are a lot of good stoves out there. The most important thing when using them is that you don't have to open it up to wide open to heat water. Use the lowest flame you can. It may take a bit longer to heat up the water, but the amount of fuel savings isn't trivial! After all, how often does a few more minutes make much of a difference, when eating a meal in the backcountry?!

[@anatolyloegering547]

I believe that going more expensive is not the best choice. Most of my gear is far under $100 and have stood everything i have thrown at them. Intentionally knowing what your gear needs to do, let that guide you over any brand name and especially expensive brands!!! Good luck!

[@paulmann1653]

Used a Jetboil on the PCT, AT & CDT plus multiple other hikes, for me it's ease of use and fuel efficiency more than make up for any downsides. You do have to be a bit careful "unlocking" the pot, but this is more than made up for by the fact that you are never likely to knock the pot off.

[@kyleseeber2920]

$110 and over a decade later, my Jetboil is still going strong. One of the best backpacking purchases I've ever made.

[@zachsiebers5742]

I’ve purchased many things from Moosejaw, such as jackets, socks and other clothing. A really great selection and always seem to have the most competitive prices.

[@davidwilliama.7296]

I got a Jetboil Sumo, which is their largest one (I think). It wasn't cheap, but I'm pretty happy with it, although I definitely wish it were cheaper.

Subjective from the channel. Minimo has literally been a lifesaver.

[@scottfollmer]

I love my minimo

@@scottfollmer 🙌

[@tryundel]

Thanks for pointing out that Insulated V's R value is actually just 1.9. I have been disappointed in it. Being a very cold sleeper I've got myself a proper winter down sleeping bag, but I still couldn't feel quite comfortable because of the cold coming from the ground. And I am mostly camping in the mountains and temperatures go down to 0 sometimes, but no real winter camping.

[@candytechadventures]

In your video you said all the items you were talking about are sold on moosejaw. For the record so people don't get confused, the REI gear cannot be bought on moosejaw but only at REI.

[@Oldsparkey]

99% of my gear comes from Garage Owned shops not the Big Named places. One exception is the ancient ( seemingly indestructible ) self inflating , mummy style ,Therm-a-rest mattress , full length. Plus I hammock camp because most of the places I go the ground is wet or swampy. I also find a hammock offers a lot more comfort ( ventilation ) then any tent which I use now and then. The air mattress is about 75% inflated so it conforms to the hammock and my body.

[@Bunny501]

I'm no expert, but there's one piece of gear I truly love and that's the Jack Wolfskin Skyrocket Dome III tent. Roomy, comfy, breathable and kept me dry every time.

[@hainhatphung1371]

My alternative 5 would be: _Get a hammock. I'm on motorcycle, and even when trucking on my Ranger, them rattling tent and its skeletal frames got my nerve! Hammock set requires two trees, and as big as your 5ft6 or even 6ft5 body can fit. _Wind-proof foldable stove and flammable gel. Much lighter to carry, though folding the stove without cutting your fingers first time is a rite of passage, and the gel smells like fish. Fuel tabs work, too. The only inconvenience is to get a twig or leaf to coat it in abit of the gel for starting fire, though it's fine to use straight gel if you can light it up without burning your fingers. _You are in Canada, so my equivalent for outdoor reseller is some assend retailer at my hometown Madison, WI. Sleeping bag is easy, get a GOOD insulator whilst spending a bit cheaper on sleeping bag. Don't believe anything TNF said, cheapass Marmot with liner to keep you warm in winter isn't the best choice, but summer it's fair game. _And you are right. V-stand foldable chair is heaven, but don't pick the V nesting one, it's so uncomfortable on my spine, left alone my daughter who is almost 6ft by now. I can recommend a longer chair for your legs, even if it's a bit too far for camping there. _There is no right way for a backpack. Venture Surplus is actually my favorite to grab military surplus poochies and bags for everyday carry. Don't like what the mainstreams been using? Try them military ones 😂 The key is its padding, you are on point there! Though another one would be its straps, useful one to mount on your bike's luggage rack so you won't have to carry them whike riding, or to hang them up at night without leaving them on wet ground. Hope my selection ain't that bad. We get what's right for our purposes, so right or wrong is more like trials and errors at this point.

[@natehikes]

I carried the Static V2 on the LT was shocked how cold I slept. Haven’t tried the insulated, as it still seems to be a warm weather pad (shoulder at best).

[@theryancornelius]

I used to have a cheap knockoff helinox from Amazon. Worked fine. Now I have a nice high back chair of the same design from Costco. A little heavier but the high back is awesome. Also have a knockoff jetboil from Amazon that was probably $40. Works great. I definitely prefer the locking pots over what you presented here.

[@michaelbutler1557]

Fact check: Closed inteegrated with heat-exchanger stove systems such as that used by Jetboil and MSR are significantly more efficient on fuel compared to the MSR Pocket Rocket or the Jetboil equivalent open stove.

[@JamboEcho]

The wind burner is the best stove on the market imo as long as you want to carry that weight. I miss mine tremendously. The cost is a bit more than a jet boil unless it recently changed. Last I saw was $170. I bought an off brand jet boil and it just as good as any jet boil I've used and I only paid $40. Been using multiple times a day for the past year and zero complaints.

[@SebaTheHut]

Love your videos, man. I love that you have a healthy partnership with your sponsor where you can maintain integrity and give us your honest reviews. Thank you for that.

[@kevinb1756]

I like my Jetboil but I agree, a bit pricey. I’m sure the MSR is great but I’ve been more hesitant with MSR products. They use to make some of the best snowshoes but when they started outsourcing production, the quality/reliability dropped all to save a buck. Since then, it left me with a more negative view. With that said, some items are probably just down to personal preference. Love your videos and input.

[@colinleslie2458]

The efficiency of the Jetboil, compared to an open flame stove, is hardly any competition. Depending on how many nights a year you use it, I think you might be able to make up the price difference in just a few years.

[@DomBurgess]

Thanks! Though please consider giving the metric weight too as most of the world don't use imperial! :)

[@northdiver62]

Would love to see you test some Decathlon backpacking gear!

[@TheCoolwhipped]

I bought a jetboil specifically because my pocket Rocket took FOREVER to boil water in cold, windy conditions. I'm not kidding when I say it took almost a half hour to bring 8oz of water to a boil in a steel cup in 15mph winds semi protected at 30dF in the midwest. Simply wayyyyy too much fuel consumption. Got the jetboil and never had that issue.

[@Jedwoods]

If you can get a Jetboil on sale then they're great - I bought mine second hand a few years ago, I think I paid £35 for it, and I've been very happy.

[@sven1036]

Agree 100% on the freelite. I had a few more issues with this tent (leakage, low quality zippers) but MSR in Ireland fixed that at no costs. It is weird, because every other MSR product I have used so far was great.

[@midlifetravelers6151]

Remember back in the day, when JetBoil was all the rage? The tent: same rain frustration with my BA Tigerwall. I switched to a tipi tent. Took a weight penalty.

[@dangerpudge1922]

REI vs Helinox: for me, the comfort was comparable so price dictated. A chair is better than not for a casual camp. I'm interested in the NEMO for sure. The EXPED 7R (or 5R) is my most comfortable. The NEMO TENSOR EC is very nearly as comfortable as the EXPED options (which, comfort-wise are effectively identical to the EXPED pads, but not as warm), it packs crazy small, and gives great thermal performance (even for this cold sleeper). If I'm not looking for a 'luxury' camp, I'll opt for the EC every time, even in summer which means that's one pad that'll do it all for me.

[@WasatchWill]

I used a Klymit Static V Ultralight Insulated pads on a late August trip to Red Castle in Utah's Uinta Mountains. Paired it with a 20 degree Teton Sports Altos down sleeping bag. Woke up to a well frosted camp and partially frozen water bottles. (Temp was about 28 before sunrise) I never had a shiver with it. I think the baffles or air chambers really are well insulated, but where it's not insulated (the channel welds between the air chambers) the down bag did well enough to fill out those spaces, enabling a somewhat effective use of the insulation from the bottom of the sleeping bag. I think that's the expectation with the design of that pad. So it's definitely not something you'd want to pair with a quilt in anything below 50 degrees or so but with a puffy down bag, it's probably fine down to at least mid to upper 20's. That said, I wasn't a fan of the valve system so it has been shelved in favor of some other pads I have now.

[@AlphaCryptidHunter]

@myoutdoorlife you should try a tent called the Vango Banshee 200, a Uk based company well know for their expedition tents from the 60-80s . The banshee is a relatively light but legendary tent for long distance hikers in the UK

[@ryanguffy4739]

Been using the Jetboil for close to 20 years, never had an issue, love it!

[@AnabolicRick915]

I bought a knockoff jet boil called “fire maple” from Amazon. Got if for sale and paid 40 bucks and it’s probably the best purchase I’ve ever made as far as camping gear goes. Planning out meals is so easy now and I don’t need to get a fire going or lug a big camping stove around with me at camp. I’m not a backpacker I’m an overlander so space isn’t necessarily an issue nor is weight but the convenience is still second to none

[@SeetheAlpenglow]

I love my jetboil. I take them with me with all my out of town trips, hiking, car camping and extended vacations very compact and useful.

[@SeetheAlpenglow]

I love my MSR hubba hubba , bought the original one in early 2000 but made a mistake of washing it with the tent soap and destroyed my tent and turned it into a slimy smelly biohazard garbage, from then all all my tent are spot clean. I’m on my 2nd hubba, I also have a 4 person rei half dome that you can set up in 7 minutes or less, really useful during pouring cold rain. Never had issues with condensation coz I always keep the door partially open for the air to circulate……Whining about rain on the fly has no business camping outdoors. Love my rei flex lite chair, cheap, light and same technology as the competition for a fraction of a price. I still have my thermarest pro lite orange hideous thing from early 2000 that I can insert inside my ancient kilo plus rei sleeping bag.

[@SeetheAlpenglow]

For daypacks Osprey Mira for better back support and back ventilation or north face chimera if I like it to keep it simple, it is lightweight and doesn’t feel like I’m carrying a turtle shell that sticks to my back. For extended backpacking, I have the ancient early 2000 rei 40L.For jacket I have the packable rei gossamer jacket and a base under I’m good to go.

[@whafrog]

You may not be able to get it in America, but I find the MEC (Canadian) ultralight chair far more comfortable than my friend's Helinox. Also, the Helinox has a nasty habit of the internal bungies coming lose, and getting them hooked back up is a real pain. The MEC design doesn't suffer from that.

[@commentsonthetube14]

I've been using a flexlite air for ages and it's been great. I'm 6'4" 200 lb, so I am large for it, but it manages just fine. Mine has a few ember holes int eh cover too, but it doesn't seem to make a difference. REI does sell new cloth bits though. Nemo makes a chair that feels super high end, but it's also heavier than it needs to be.

[@rgmALC]

I’m 6’ around 215lbs. I really enjoy my Flex Lite as well. I got mine on sale for $50, I’d never spend $100 on a chair.

[@borislavrusev972]

The only real differences i've seen so far between jetboil and msr stoves is that jetboil users (includes me) need wind protection more often that msr users. And that msr stoves can be faster when temps get really low, but can use more fuel, really depends on conditions and models. But in general i don't see a difference so huge to say "this one good, this one bad". Whichever you use, if the temps are stupid low and wind will be an issue, make sure to pack more fuel than you think you'll need, depending on the length of your trip. And do try to keep at least 1 cannister as warm as possible at all times, the one you'll be boiling with. And if melting snow is something you'll have to do, we always have an msr reactor in the group for that reason. It just did the best when we tested several years ago, there may be something better out there now, but idk. anyway.... "just seemed cheap" "just feels better made" - Just seems like a solid argument. Just feels like a genuine observation.............Certainly a channel to avoid...................

[@yukondave8389]

Same happened to my Helinox chair too! I didn't even see any ambers or anything flying close to my chair, yet I woke up to a small burnt hole. It's easily fixable, but it shouldn't happen so quick.

[@RidesInforests]

Yeah I learnt the hard way. Buy a good tent and bring a footprint with you always. I’ve actually switched to hammocks since discovering all the DD-Hammock goodies. Next level stuff and well made. Not the cheapest but great value for the £. Wise people used their brains making that stuff. Getting off the ground is really smart, esp in temperate climates like mine. Learn by doing guys! Got off you tubes hehe

[@ОлександраКолос-ы4и]

I used to love my Klymit Static V Insulated, but then it started losing air. When I checked where the air was coming from, it turned out it wasn't a hole, but a leak at one of the seam seals. I patched the seam, but after some time, the issue came back. Based on online reviews, it seems like I'm not the only one experiencing this problem

[@yuegan1939]

I'm about 100 lbs and I love my Flexlite Air, but I agree Helinox Zero feels much more stable.

[@starlashadow7913]

I love the suttle change of music in the background when you debunk the reasons why we shouldn't buy the item in question. 😂

[@jjmcwill2007]

The Pocket Rocket Deluxe is good but expensive. And if you're gonna recommend a stove without the piezo-lighter, the Pocket Rocket and Pocket Rocket 2 have substantially different burner heads which I don't think perform nearly as well in breezy conditions. If you're looking to ditch the igniter and save a few bucks, I'd alternatively recommend the Soto Amicus without igniter. It has the same burner head design as the Pocket Rocket deluxe, AND it has four legs instead of three, which gives a little more stability with certain pots. The Soto Amicus with a 750ml titanium pot is my go-to stove for solo trips.

[@buildwalls2001]

I do not disagree with your points at all, I really enjoy your videos and you sharing your experiences! I kicked the snot out of my Jet Boil backpacking in New Mexico for 12 days! It really held up to my abuse. In all fairness, some of the other folks had whisper lites and those were a fraction of the cost and weight. I didn’t have to pour and pump white fuel.

[@JonnyBoyOfficial]

Glad to see that everybody agrees that jetboil is Actually GOOD

[@user-if6wu3wg1r]

This video feels like a prolonged outdoor gear commercial.

[@Robert-Herman]

Many of the camping equipment videos (including this one) boarder on glamping. Gas stoves? What happened to camp fires? Inflatable mats? I've always packed leaves under my tent. I will sound like a grumpy old man. I grew up sleeping in mud puddles. Yes there are improvements in weight which I like, but let's not forget hiking/camping is meant to be close to Nature.

[@TheDarkFragment]

You do sound like a grumpy old man

[@SgtCardBoard]

The Helinox chairs are the best. I have the high back chair zero and it's amazing.

[@RedWingsninetyone]

Sad that Moosejaw is closing all but 3 of their brick and mortar stores :(

[@andymytys]

Dick’s Sporting Goods bought them from Walmart less than a year ago and decided to basically go online only with them. 😢

[@RedWingsninetyone]

@@andymytys yeah they said that most of their sales are online anyway and Dick's already has a similar store. Sad because I had 2 of them by me and it was always fun to go to. I guess I'll have to stick to REI.

[@andymytys]

@@RedWingsninetyone here in Detroit, the store would have a few days a year where they would have a party for customers with craft beer and wine. They also supported a lot of small hiking community events with giveaways.

[@RedWingsninetyone]

@@andymytys I got some great deals on their 'yard sales' and their entire business model just embodied fun for both the customers and employees. At least Detroit (Birmingham) will get to have one of the 3 stores remaining.

[@andrewcheng1998]

It feels like everything here is avoidable by trying before purchasing in a brick-and-mortar store and talking to people.