I FINALLY Bought My Dream Piece Of Gear! | 2024 Gear Preview

[@Suncity4]

I swore I’d never buy another nylon fly tent again but after hoping Slingfin would change it, I bought the 2 Lite as soon as it came back on line. It now is what I use for one night boondocking stops and walk in campsites both in and out of parks. Has worked great in the rain but the best part is the flexibility. I’ve used just the inner more as a bug bivy than with the fly. Love any condensation being away from me and with the fly flexibility it vents well. It’s the only non DCF packable tent I own and it just feels right. Of course a TNT fly for it would be awesome.

[@baykcd]

My Osprey Rook 65 has side openings to grab a water bottle from the side mesh while walking. But I also use the adapter that allows me to drink from my Nalgene as if it were a bladder, with the hose. Making the whole 'having to reach back & forth for a bottle' thing a moot point.

[@MountainHobbler]

I hate using camelback type bladders but with two bad shoulders it is impossible for me to reach the side pockets of backpacks to grab my water bottles, this year I am going to try a waist pack keeping my water in front of me. Great video getting new outdoor gear is awesome.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Yeah bladders just always leak! Red Paw packs has a neat waist pack that has a sleeve on top you can put a bottle into. Or check out the Waymark water bottle pockets to put on your shoulder strap. :)

[@sandycultofthesun]

as mentioned there are lots of kits where you can essentially turn any bottle into a bladder/hydration hose set up. i forget the brands but you should sus it

[@dangerpudge1922]

I love my EXPED 7R and have yet to find a more comfortable pad. I'm also a side-sleeper and I never experience touchdown or dead-limbs. One thing that does require a bit of attention at the outset is to inflate it and hold it up to the light, and then ensure the down is evenly distributed otherwise you will get cold spots. Also, it is best to deflate it *mostly* to store; you don't want to keep the down compressed nor do you want to leave it fully inflated as the down will simply migrate to whichever end is pointed down; laying flat would be an option but I just let most of the air out, gently fold it, and leave it on a shelf.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Thanks for the info! Yeah I need to figure out the right storage for it in my home. 👊🏻

[@philsmith2444]

I have the previous version (Downmat 9 LW) and found it to be cold at about 15F the last time I used it about 6 years ago, but never thought about down migration. I doubt it’s translucent enough to see where the down is, but I’ll give it a try. And I’ve been storing it completely deflated and laid flat, I’ll try inflating it a bit.

[@dangerpudge1922]

@@philsmith2444 I was surprised I could see through it as well, but you can. The down migration is everything. The first time I used it the down wasn't well distributed. Weirdly the same issue with a sleeping bag made me think about the sleeping pad, and that's when I discovered all this. I'm a cold sleeper and the last time I was out I used it down to 20F without any issue. I've seen other folks complain about cold spots and I'm 100% sure it's just from the down migration. Weirdly, this also makes it awesome for summer camping since you can intentionally move the down. ;)

[@philsmith2444]

@@dangerpudge1922I inflated the pad and yeah, it’s completely opaque when I hold it up to the overhead light. The very foot felt like it was packed pretty solid, I don’t know if it’s an insulated end cap for the longitudinal tubes or if the down all migrated to the foot. I’ve had it stored folded in half and laid flat for most of the last 5 years, right now it’s inflated and standing on the head end to see if the down will migrate toward it.

[@dangerpudge1922]

@@philsmith2444 I just realized that you have a different version which I'm sure has a different material. My 8R has a foam end cap on one side so I'd expect yours to be of similar construction. In that case, I suspect the best you can do is mostly deflate it and feel for the down pockets. I suppose that may be an advantage I have by virtue of their Ultra line; slightly translucent material.

[@texmexia49]

REI Flash packs have the absolute best water bottle pockets I’ve ever seen/used.

[@BackcountryExposure]

A Flash 55 will absolutely be a pack I carry this year. I need to see what it's like.

[@texmexia49]

@@BackcountryExposure I switch between the Flash 55 and the Kakwa 55. Both great packs and different pros to each.

[@frstesiste7670]

Bought my Feathered Friends Swallow around 25 years ago. Still the best all round bag I've ever owned. It'll be interesting to see how you like it.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Yes, I’m really looking forward to getting it out once it’s warmed up just a bit.

[@philsmith2444]

I’ve bought 2 (used) in the past year or so, an Eider -10F w/6oz overfill (FF says it should be warm to at least -25F, I was almost uncomfortably warm at -15F) and a 0F Ibis. The Eider is over 20 years old but other than the right zip you’d never know it wasn’t current production from looking at it. The previous owner apparently took care of it as if his life might depend on it. It’s a little hard to stuff with the Pertex Shield fabric, but that’s minor. I could always turn it inside out.

[@jarrodyeager]

Putting together a lightweight and affordable backpacking set up for a trip in February. I’m strongly considering using some Paria, feather stone, or outdoor vitals gear. Your content has been helpful.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Awesome! Thanks!

[@TheWeekendHiker]

Hey Devin, That is quite the haul. I will be interested to see see how the alpaca does with being wet? Looking forward to seeing your rafting trips. -Atb Adam

[@BackcountryExposure]

Thanks, Adam! I've considered getting the App puffer soaking wet on purpose to see how it handles.

[@flybyguy1450]

The Paka Apu is on my radar to replace an aging ll bean primaloft packaway hoody. Looking forward to a long term review and comparison to the typical down/synthetic jackets.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Right on! So far it’s been impressive. Love the fit. I do have a slight concern on the durability of the outer fabric after a little bit of use, but time will tell. The insulation is nice though. Warmer than I expected it to be.

[@countrygirl63baker64]

❤😂🎉🎉🎉 YAY!! Good for you!! I hope to see a video of your first adventure with it!!!! 2024, onward!!!

[@cbgny23]

Winter mountain hiker here - I wish gear companies would take one of their lightweight options, such as the Gregory Focal or Osprey Exos, and "winterize" them with a usable snowshoe strap / carry system for when there's not enough snow down low, but snowshoes are required for up high. Add in their front pocket with a patch of Dyneema for crampons and now you've got a winter winner.

[@BackcountryExposure]

That would be a great thing to see. Probably just a matter of market research not proving enough return when other brands like Black Diamond and Mountain Hardwear have a market share on that. 🤷🏻‍♂️ I love your idea though.

[@cbgny23]

Agreed. Unfortunately, I generate a lot of heat while hiking even in the winter, so I very much appreciate the breathable trampoline backpanel Gregory and Osprey offer. No cottage manufacturer constructs a UL pack with a super breathable pack panel, as far as I know. Also, I wish gear manufacturers would axe the "Z" shaped side straps. They're beyond annoying and serve very little purpose compared to the plane-Jane two strap approach. Man, I wish Osprey or Gregory would accept some input from users like us!

[@philsmith2444]

@@cbgny23I’m also a sweaty hiker in winter, and this year I’ve found the holy grail of moisture management - the Marmot Olden Polartec hoody. Up to around 35F I can wear it on a sunny day while bushwhacking with a 40lb pack (Granite Gear Nimbus Trace Access, not very much ventilation) and barely even feel a hint of sweat on my back. Normally I was in just a silkweight top down to around 20 to manage moisture. It’s even more of a game changer than going from hardshell to softshell was.

[@cbgny23]

Thanks, Phil - I've tried everything, just the contact of a pack on my back generates too much heat for me, whereas I don't get that with my Gregory / Osprey trampoline backs.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

... The Ul and lightweight materials wood never hold up to the use ...

[@HuckOutdoors]

Some great gear there! That Primus has got my attention! Glad to see you finally get your Unicorn in the FF bag! Packrafting sounds so fun! Green river & Boulder Mountains trips!

[@BackcountryExposure]

I actually thought of you when I got the Primus. Ha ha

[@Nordictor78]

Welcome to packrafting! Just make sure you learn how to pack your stuff correctly in it + how to get inn and out of the boat. I love mine, BUT I really don't like the deuter 50+5 backpack. Bought it last year and it is just to small for weekend trip and to big for a day trip. But everyone has their own preferences

[@zachstraxx9899]

Perfect timing on the pack raft! I've been researching brands from Alpacka and Kokopelli for several months....looking forward to your MRS Microraft travels and review. Best in New Year!

[@BackcountryExposure]

Yeah I had narrowed down to Kokopelli and Alpacka, and then randomly came across MRS, and the price point with the features/weight just made sense. Thanks!

[@pilgrimultralight]

What an awesome list of gear! Can confirm that Paka is an A+ brand. I adore my 3/4 performance socks from them. I like them even more than my trusty darn tough socks.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Agreed! I have a pair of socks too and they are great. I’m hoping to do a video “interview” with Kris here soon and learn more about their processes.

[@BackcountryPilgrim]

Pack rafting looks so cool!

[@DaveOffGrid]

Some really unique pieces here Devin! Can't wait to hear how they held up in a later video!

[@BackcountryExposure]

Thanks dude!

[@jmax850]

The Deuter pack reminds me of the Mystery Ranch Radix which is releasing soon

[@BackcountryExposure]

I’m not familiar with that pack. … heads over to google… Thanks!

[@jmax850]

@@BackcountryExposure You’re welcome (it’s now available btw)

[@dennissmith1699]

Pack Rafting was the main reason I hit the subscribe button, but I also enjoyed watching the complete gear review. I have a Kodiak Water Master for floating Trout streams. Can’t wait to watch your first rafting video.

[@BackcountryExposure]

ah right on! Thanks for being here! There will certainly be a first look at my new gear setup video and something around my first time out with it. Even if it's a short day trip.

[@scottgephart9749]

Pack rafting sounds really cool. I'm here for it!

[@BackcountryExposure]

😁😁😁

[@BigDawgCAM]

After the REI Flash 55, I will never own another backpack without a dedicated water bottle pocket. It's so obviously the right configuration, it's insanity to leave it off a backpack

[@BackcountryExposure]

I think you’ll enjoy the follow up video next week then! Ha! I’m gonna buy a Flash 55 this year. About time to see what all the hubbub is about!

[@BigDawgCAM]

​@@BackcountryExposure I've used two 1L Katadyn BeFree filters in the Flash 55 water bottle pockets for years. Unbelievably easy way to refill and get to your water source I might eventually go down to two 0.6L BeFrees just because I'm not sure I always need 2L total

[@philsmith2444]

There’s a ton of water where I live so I don’t even pack any except in winter, just stuff my empty BeFree in a cargo pocket and drink when I’m thirsty. At my last water stop before camp I’ll fill & drink, then fill the BeFree and the 2 empty bottles I carry. That gives me plenty for the overnight and morning.

[@Colby168]

I bought a zpacks arc haul for myself for xmas ($500) and got my son the flash 55 ($135 on sale) Tried them both on and I’m sending the Zpacks back and getting myself a Flash 55 as well 😂. For 1 pound more it carries the weight insanely well and comfortable. I backpack in the AZ desert so water carries are part of the fun and this pack can haul a lot of water very easily.

[@lars2703]

One bigger brand backpack worth checking out is the Lundhags padje light. I have an eye on it since there isn’t so much choice in Europe, especially at a reasonable price. Hopefully Decathlon brings out more good UL gear in the future too.

[@stevewright2241]

Try the Air Mesh from Mountain Hardware. I’m an XL. My pullover version weighs 4.4 ounces about 1/2 the weight of my light weight base layer.

[@BackcountryExposure]

I'll look into that!

[@azclaimjumper]

2 Questions about the Feathered Friends 20º Ultralite Sleeping Bag: #1: Is the zipper YKK Coil or Teeth zipper? WM Sleeping bags all use the YKK Coil zipper. #2: What is the hydrostatic head of the outer fabric? I'd like to know if it will keep moisture/water from getting the down wet if I spill something on it, or my tent leaks & drips water onto the outer fabric? There is nothing on the Feather Friends website about the Hydrostatic Head of the outer fabric. Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada

[@BackcountryExposure]

Zipper is a cool zipper, #5. I’m not sure the hydro head on the fabric either. But will look into it. 👍🏻

[@anninwhack1998]

I always appreciate your gear display videos bc you do uncommon pieces. Good luck w your pack rafting! I got very lucky last year to go on a kayak camping trip in the ADK which was just so exciting and made a big impression. I will always look for opportunities to do primitive camping w some raft or canoe or kayak from now on. I look forward to your videos with your raft!

[@BackcountryExposure]

Thanks! I really enjoy using a variety of gear. I love that you had that experience. It's amazing when a trip has such a big impact.

[@rodoutdoors]

Great video. The Decathlon pack has some nice features. The Slingfin design looks nice. Very interesting. Dude that's freaking awesome you're getting a packraft. I love watching packraft videos and almost picked up a Klymit dinghy for fishing. So jealous! 👍

[@BackcountryExposure]

Yeah that MH500 pack is a gem for the price! Yeah!!! So stoked on the pack raft!!

[@BigFuzzyGuy11]

Can't wait for the packrafting content. It's something I have been curious about.

[@Fizzyfuzzybignbuzzy]

I’ve always wanted a pack raft. Being on the water is magical. I want one to have the ability to fish off of. So cool you got one!! I have the obsidian and it works great but my complaint was the same as yours. What good is a big vestibule that you can’t access!?! After you ditch the stupid ground cloth it’s a tent with Decent room, price and weight from a 1p tent.

[@BackcountryExposure]

It ought to be a great year of adventure! Thanks!

[@chadhansen8581]

I bought the Travelbird table after seeing it in your other video and it's so cool! Also, as far as pack rafting goes, I live in Utah too and I just did kayak/camping trip through The Labyrinth in Southern Utah and it was the coolest experience of my life, highly recommend and super easy for beginners!! You start near Green River and Come out in Canyonlands.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Oh sweet! Yes, that table is rad!

[@StacySalmans]

Very cool with the pack raft! Checking out the PAka stuff right now. Happy New Year!

[@BackcountryExposure]

👊🏻

[@hikingwheather]

I am excited to see you wearing Paka products. I have socks and a sweater from them that I really like. I would love to try the fleece and puffy, but it will have to wait until the funds are available. 😁

[@BackcountryExposure]

Thanks! The socks are excellent! The PakaCloud fleece may not seem as technical as other fleece layers out there, but it's mega warm and comfortable, which I like.

[@winterlightstudios4340]

Nice selection of new toys to try out :) I'm glad you're trying them all out so that I don't have to, I just want to backpack more. Hopefully with my furball, though I probably won't be able to keep her safe and comfortable with me in winter, since she still doesn't approve of her jacket.

[@arnoldestrada8583]

Packrafting would be so awesome. I seen Eric Hanson packraft in Utah. Definitely looking forward to your packrafting content.

[@BackcountryExposure]

I know the trip/video you’re talking about. That area will hopefully be one of my first few trips, pending water levels and time. Thanks!

[@awakemyoutdoorsoul]

Great video! Love that 30l pack.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Thanks!

[@prematheshdeva411]

Awesome list to test! I've got the Quechua 30l backpack and it's just fantastic for the price point... In fact, it's lighter, tougher and more future rich than many more expensive models from other brands! All that in a fairly comfortable package.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Yeah, I've been really enjoying Decathlon's products lately. Excited to get that pack out here soon!

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

... Side pockets appear decent for various items ...Don't know when or why they became a dedicated "water bottle" pocket .. with various shoulder strap add-on pouches and hip belt pouches for easy access ....... nice to see they have come back to padding the shoulder straps and hip belt ... seems that the UL crowd with small loads created poor padding to reduce grams ...

[@Suluk46]

You're gonna love the packraft buddy. It changed my life 😊

[@topshelfbackpacking7867]

Packrafting is on my to do list for 2024 as well. All though I’m probably just getting a cheap Klymit for paddling around some alpine lakes. Cheers!

[@BackcountryExposure]

Sweet!!! I’ve been in one of those klymit boats and it was a blast.

[@hikesteepfishhigh]

i prefer my durston xmid 1 for my shelter. double wall and bombproof. ive used the new xmid 2 pro as well. huge. super light but the condensation was a deal breaker for me.

[@ShawnB321]

Looking forward to seeing updates on the MH500 and the pack rafting.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Thanks! I’ll be out this week hiking with the MH500. 😊 thanks for watching!

[@jakeva9802]

Lookin forward to see the uses

[@pedroclaro7822]

Instead of that exped pad, check out the Amok pads. They’re less known because they’re mainly sold as pad for the Draumr hammock, but that thing is always with me. Comfy and great value for the money Wool filled insulation is awesome! Wish more people would do that!

[@BackcountryExposure]

Wasn't aware they also made pads, but I'll check it out. Thanks!

[@davidcooper8390]

love the video as always. If I could offer some other suggestions for future videos. I know we are always trying to cut weight and go as lightweight as can, but as a father of young kids when i go backpacking with them I bring an "expedition" size of pack (75-85L). Would love to know how you compare some of the large load haulers that can stay comfortable while carrying 50lbs of gear. I gave mine away for Christmas and I am in the market to get a new one this year.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Thank you for the suggestion. I’ve also been in the market for a larger pack, in the 65L size. So that’s of interest for me as I’d like to take my youngest (almost 3) out once it’s warm enough. I’ll have to carry all his gear too. Send me an email though and let’s chat about it. [e-mail]

[@ItsGoodintheWoods]

That slingfin is awesome. Reminds me of one of my favorite tents, the eureka spitfire....but much lighter lol And I am looking at packrafts as well! Happy New year to you and your family

[@BackcountryExposure]

Too bad that Spitfire will be a thing of the past here soon. Great tent! Thanks my friend!

[@rootsandpeaks]

I’m super interested to see how you use the pack raft! I’ve using an SUP with bags backed on it, but the board can’t take a lot of weight and they are heavy to carry. The pack raft is a super interesting idea. How will you inflate it on your adventures? It could end up being really heavy to carry.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Yeah it’s gonna be cool. It inflates like a sleeping pad, in that you have a big pump sack, but can also use an electric pump. The raft has a zipper on it so you’re able to put all your gear inside the boat, which helps balance weight. My raft, PFD and paddle will be about 10-12 pounds total.

[@rootsandpeaks]

Awesome. Can’t wait to hear more about it. 12lbs is great!

[@nickbnash]

Thank you for all of the great videos this year! I’m really looking forward to the pack rafting content next year.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Thank you so much!!!

[@stonedapeadventures]

I use the slingfin portal 1 and splitwing shelters. the sil/sil nylon 66 they use is awesome. I have put the splitwing through its paces and have not noticed much sag at all. I'm excited to get the portal 1 some snow load. the material is not far off from hilleberg kerlon. the only down I'll buy is feathered friends now. I can't wait to hear your thoughts on the 2lite. I almost bought that instead of the portal....I would have but then they released portal in 1 person

[@BackcountryExposure]

That’s great to know about the fabric and your experience with it. A close friend of mine also has the 2Lite and he’s enjoyed it a lot, especially as a tall guy. Yeah I’m really looking forward to getting it out. Likely first big trip will be in March when I do the Paria River canyon. Thanks!

[@philsmith2444]

Great video! Have you looked at the Granite Gear Perimeter 50? It’s a little heavier than the Deuter (49-50oz), has adjustable torso length and shoulder strap width, 40lb capacity, and it has their really nice Re-Fit adjustable waist belt that keeps the pockets at the ends of the belt. I started out using Osprey about 7 years ago and have switched to GG for most of my backpacking packs (38l, 60l, 70l), my Atmos 50 AG and Argon 85 are my last holdouts but as comfy as the Atmos is I think I’ll be buying a Perimeter 50 to try out this year. And if I can ever find a Nimbus Trace Access 85 I think the Argon will go bye-bye, the capacity is fine but I don’t need the features. I may even break out my old MOLLE II pack in its place LOL

[@BackcountryExposure]

I haven't given GG much attention in recent years. I've carried a crown in the past and wasn't too happy with the fit and feel of the pack. It honestly felt like I was strapped to a back board it was so stiff. I'll take a look at it though cause they are great value as well. :)

[@philsmith2444]

@@BackcountryExposureI hear ya, when I was shopping for my first backpacking pack I’d tried the Crown2 60 as well as 3400cc HMG, Gregory, and Osprey models, but the Ospreys were the best-fitting ones. A couple years ago, though, I saw Crown2 60s on sale for about $70 and decided it was worth trying one again for that price. I’d learned a lot about packing my pack since first shopping for packs 5 years earlier, and with a few changes to account for the different way the back pad & frame sheet transfer weight to my body I got it to be at least as comfortable as my Osprey. At least for weights up to around 32lb, that is. It was perfect for my winter day pack last year; I snowshoe alone and cross-country about 98% of the time so always had an appropriate sleeping bag, pad, tent, food & stove, and warm layers in addition to the usual stuff. I liked it so much I found a Crown2 38 for summer backpacking, and last summer I bought a Nimbus Trace Access 70 that I’ve been using this winter.

[@PMarsh14]

Would love to see a review of the Slingfin portal 2

[@BackcountryExposure]

I’ll definitely share one once I have field time with it.

[@26parma]

I did a packrafting trip in Canyonlands back in 2016 and it was really fun. Steve and Tess posted a video to their channel here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4K2XpKpfa-Abposi=jdFjmaFxUQgHc6Vt&t=1 Floating the river in the mornings in Canyonlands was amazing! I grew up whitewater rafting and kayaking, so doing a packraft was an easy transition. Be sure to get familiar with controlling it in a pool or lake before getting on a river. You're gonna love it, but packing the extra weight isn't as fun, haha.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Oooh awesome! I'll go watch that for sure. I have a small amount of time in a boat, but it was mostly in a 17' touring kayak. I did a trip in Teton NP from String Lake to Leigh Lake. But I've never been in a packraft. So looking forward to some time on the Jordan River close to my house and the Provo to get familiar with it all. :)

[@davidshirley6850]

Can't find much I fo on new nemo tent coming out the mayfly... hope you review it soon

[@BackcountryExposure]

I’ve got a sample of the 3P Mayfly. My kids have been using it for some family camping trips. I like it. Once I’m able to share more I will!

[@davidshirley6850]

@@BackcountryExposure can't wait to see, im trying to get into hiking and can't decide, durston has a freestanding tent coming out, I really want a true 2p 50 inches in width head and foot , looking at dragonfly hoping new tent is light and wide?

[@hidiyates335]

Wait, did you say durston is coming out with a freestanding? Do you know when it might be released?

[@davidshirley6850]

@@hidiyates335 not till fall of 2024

[@agrivere5494]

Some interesting gear here, but the Primus lite I don’t get. You say you wanted smaller, but compared to the jetboil stash it’s the same height, 11 mm smaller in diameter, but 5 ounces heavier. That’s a lot of extra weight for 11mm in size…

[@BackcountryExposure]

What I was being specific to is the capacity of the pot, with the Lite being .5 liter. The Stash, MicroMo and Zip are all .8 liter in size. Weight wasn’t a huge point of concern.

[@j78987]

Congratulations for going beyond obvious choices and exploring some European brands like Deuter, Decathlon, Exped and Primus.

[@BackcountryExposure]

Primus is awesome! I've got their Kinjia 2 burner stove and absolutely love it! Thanks!

[@scottybethune]

Does your hair stay that perfect on a multi day trip?!

[@BackcountryExposure]

Under my hat? Absolutely! 😂

[@lukeflynn7025]

❤ from 🇮🇪

[@valdius85]

The bottom of this D pack is edged. WTF is wrong with manufacturers not understanding that many of customers want the backpack to be able to stand vertically by itself? 😂

[@ulperformance4087]

The typical backpacks sold throughout the world have five to eight bio-mechanical inefficiencies that reduce your speed, endurance, comfort, safety and increase your fatigue. Why place water bottles at the sides of a backpack which increase side to side thrusting that expends your energy thrusting and returning the backpack, generating fatigue. The human spine is the center of one's torso rotation for generating efficient forward bipedal motion, inhibited by the backpack and the reason for the need of a hip belt to lessen the side to side thrusting. The heaviest objects such as water should be placed at the center of the backpack and lighter gear either side thereof and balanced as practical. Because the backpack is long down to the hips and lower in some backpacks, you've lost your basic pace speed. That's an easy one to prove. Lift your shoulder straps up thus lifting the backpack above your hips, pull and hold the straps down. You can now move faster vs leaving the backpack at your hips or lower. That's a proof that the "experts" who design backpacks don't know the first thing about bio-mechanics.

[@Chris-ov4zc]

Why don't mainstream pack manufacturers ever seem to make roll-top packs? The top lid/cinch opening, IMHO, is stupid and needs to go the way of the dinosaurs. It feels like US car manufacturers in the 70s - sticking their heads firmly in the sand, while they get out-innovated, firmly believing that people love their pack designs, and will never leave.

[@BackcountryExposure]

I don’t think you’ll ever see the cinch collar and top lid design go away. It’s so classic and provides more versatility to a new backpacker. I guide new backpackers in the field every spring and fall and those new hikers struggle with a roll top, while others do better with a cinch and top lid. But I don’t disagree with you. Having worked for a pack company and being part of the design process, a roll top is slick, convenient and just a smart design.

[@pedroclaro7822]

It takes longer than cinching. As a bicycle tourer I quickly got tired of rolling 4 bags every time I pack up. Gets old quick. It’s neat and waterproof though so there’s that.

[@philsmith2444]

I love my roll tops! You don’t have to deal with a floppy pack if you’re not packing enough stuff to fill it to the cinch, just roll down to where your stuff stops LOL. Granite Gear could be considered mainstream and they use them.

[@pedroclaro7822]

actually yeah you're right. I've a cheap chinese backpack (16€ lol) with a cinch top. And though I usually overfill it because i still pack my fears (plus cheap volumous gear), If I dont, it just sags like a sad lump on my back.@@philsmith2444

[@boredandagitated]

I would actually really like something like a ultralight body and pockets on a mainstream frame from Osprey or the like. Super simple pack with a great frame and suspension

[@matthewpulliam7473]

Nice sale on Alpacka rafts ends today…

[@BackcountryExposure]

I just about pulled the trigger on a Refuge, but budget just wasn’t quite there with everything else needed to get going.

[@matthewpulliam7473]

I hear you. I just send 10% of my earnings directly to Kokopelli and Alpacka. ;) Have a happy new year, and thanks for a great channel!

[@neemancallender9092]

Look at the 40 liter pack The same as the 30 just an extra 10 liters No reason to get the 30 liter

[@BackcountryExposure]

Using the 30L as a day hiking pack and for when traveling to National Parka with my wife and kids. Gives more space for everything the kids need. The 40L is a smart size though!

[@prematheshdeva411]

Day hike, overnight or ultralight

[@bobo-qi6xm]

Hi，I'm Briar from Zeawool, where we craft premium merino wool clothing. I've really enjoyed your content! We're interested in a potential collaboration and would be delighted to discuss it further with you.

[@ryankuhn926]

Whattt a pack raft?! That’s rad man, have a happy new year! 🏕️

[@BackcountryExposure]

😬😬 let’s goo!!!

[@wyregrasser7540]

Happy New Year! 👴

[@alanclarkson1921]

The Paka APU Puffer and fleece looked interesting. But, after checking their site, $500-$600 for a jacket and fleece? No can do. Can't justify spending that much for 2 items. There are just as good, if not better items out there, for half to one-third the price.

[@BackcountryExposure]

I get that, and you certainly wouldn't need to buy both items, or either of them. I think processes that are out of the norm of mass production typically equal higher price points. Simple cause the process of manufacturing comes at a higher cost. I find what Paka is doing as a brand to be quite compelling and interesting. But they are just one brand among hundreds in the outdoor industry. Many options at all price points to consider. :)