I Went Backpacking with this Cutting Edge Gear

[@JustinOutdoors]

👇 GEAR FROM THE VIDEO 👇 Secret Pot Lid: geni.us/ThePikaLid Super Nero Pack: geni.us/SuperNero Speedgoat 6 Shoes: geni.us/HokaSpeedgoat Bells of Steel Trap Bar: geni.us/BoS-TrapBar Dragonfly Tent: geni.us/Dragonfly1P Hikenture Sleeping Pad: geni.us/HikenturePad PadPal Pump: geni.us/PadPal Rockfront Quilt System: geni.us/350ProUL GoTrax Scooter: geni.us/GoTraxGX2

[@the.marshland]

Have you tried the Hoka Mafate Speed?

[@BrysonOsborne]

The Hikenture pad just goes to the Amazon store page for the brand -- I don't see the specific pad you used in the video.

[@leviantuna8553]

Never apologize for being a gearhead! I love that about your channel, and it's what brings me here!

[@awgnaw]

I don’t even do hiking or camping, but I watch and am subscribed to his channel 😆

[@fredricgriffin6070]

Scooter? wtf?

[@LV93262]

I love that you wore a labcoat for that clip, gave me a solid chuckle. Thanks for testing this stuff for us Justin!

[@Riko0027]

That was dorky in the best way. 😂

[@abrider3]

Omg that pot lid idea is super cool. I'm excited to buy that! The spoon pouring is brilliant!

[@scottyplug]

Being a gear head myself is what first brought me to your channel years ago now. I like the mix of challenge trips, home testing/preview of gear, and then of course the real world trial of the gear. Keep keeping on, J Money G.

[@jamesdodson5554]

Loved the video! I was hoping that some day you might consider a short video on the full break down of vest vs hip style packs in relation to weight, activity etc... Again amazing video, thanks for making it! - Also after your Scout 55 video series I decided to grab a Flash 50 Air and could not be happier. So many good design choices became immediately apparent a few miles in on my test run. Thanks for your unbiased reviews.

[@8evanesse]

You’re one of my favorite gear heads, please don’t change! I’ve really learned a lot from your channel, like exactly how to use a Sawyer Squeeze water filter, how to pick a good camp site, and how to use a bidet. That sleep system looks pretty sweet, cuz there’s no way I can afford the Zenbivy one, and I really want that awesome pot lid! Thank you!

[@brentperron6914]

I bought the pad and honestly was super suspicious of the price to R-value but I'm so glad to see someone like you review it! (Haven't gotten to try it out yet). Them posting the ASTM report did calm some concerns of course since I don't think I'd have bought it otherwise with many companies lying or making up their R-values! Thanks for doing what you do!

[@kinoahrossi6110]

Did you test the pad, any thoughts?

[@brentperron6914]

@@kinoahrossi6110 I have! For the price it's great. I've only used it down to 10c but in that temperature, it slept warm. So I'm sure it could go lower with ease. Comfort wise, it's what id expect for a pads height (8.2cm). No mattress at home but more than comfortable enough. The big reason to get it is the value for the R rating and still being about 600g. I can get 2 or maybe even 3 of these for 1 Nemo/thermarest pad with similar r value. You don't get the warranty of those companies but ive liked it.

[@kinoahrossi6110]

@@brentperron6914 thanks for the info really appreciate it, happy camping. 😊

[@dave2daresqu]

I love the outdoors and everything about it. We all do. But i cant be outdoors 100% of the time because of work and life. Thats why i love backpacking, it allows me to amp my own excitement up in anticipation for going backpacking by fine tuning my gear and getting ready. I love being a nerd about it. This is why i love the gear head aspect of backpacking, and this is why we love your channel. Thank you Justin. Do you and don’t apologize. We’re here for you.

[@joker2100]

Using your spoon as a handle on the pot lid is pretty neat.

[@VasylKor9]

Thank you for checking out Rock Front quilt system! Highest quality backpacking products at unbeatable price, designed and made in Ukraine.

[@Prasannathani]

Ordering rock front quilt - was a bit worried about the quilt fill weight. Assuming you’ve tested in cooler temps to gauge their 5 Celsius comfort rating claim?

[@VasylKor9]

@@Prasannathani I have previous generation of their quilt and I’ve been toasty warm at comfort temperature. Don’t see a reason why newer quilt would be any different. It is 870+ fill power so obviously you need less of it for higher warmth rating.

[@Prasannathani]

@@VasylKor9 awesome to hear! Can’t wait, thanks!

[@joostheijnen]

I love that pot lid. Hope to buy one as soon it comes out. Awesome view you've got there... 💚🌿

[@aramboodakian9554]

That quilt sheet system looks very promising!

[@the_average_backpacker]

I think a good balance of showing gear that you're excited to try versus waiting to show the world until you've tested it might be a good approach. For my own personal use of gear videos, I'm not too interested in the ones that are more or less reading the product description from the manufacturer. However I'm deeply interested in how that product has worked for a person in the real world experiences. I think conveying that experience is what differentiates your videos and a few other creators' videos. Keep up the great work!

[@Shveet]

10:00 the RockFront sleeping UL quilt seems to work similar to the Big Agnes Diamond Park sleeping quilt. similar zipper idea but the Rockfront doesn't have the sleeping hood with pillow insert. thanks for showing this one off!

[@ionmarinescu42]

Man you do great videos, because of you I will go back to my intense hiking days I kind of gave up on this. Stay healthy.

[@scottgephart9749]

Justin, I like seeing sneak peaks/1st impression of gear. Then, small mentions in videos while you are using/testing, and lastly, a full gear review. One thing that I've seen other gear/hiking channels do is that they will preview gear and then never do a follow-up. It would be great to know when you stop testing something, especially if it is crappy gear or just completely failed (and why).

[@tanvach]

Yes to Hoka joining wide feet club! Love the pot lid idea, I will get one for sure.

[@JarradShaw]

Justin, that lid is really really cool. If options for Toaks, Snow Peak, MSR or… gosh, or even the new Fire Maple pot that would AMAZING

[@relmukneb]

Pot lid seems super cool! Pouring with a spoon as a handle seems pretty sketchy, gotta be super secure, spilling boiling water is no joke

[@middleearthchronicles2269]

I've been using an earlier version of the Pad-Pal for over a year now, and its still working great for me. I'll never go back to hot breathing it at the end of the day.

[@chase-mode]

Big stoked about the pot lid. Can’t wait for it to be released.

[@MalinaCC]

The pump and the lid looks simple but efficient. FYI The link for the sleeping pad just takes you to their Amazon page. Thanks for doing these reviews.

[@Prasannathani]

Ya had same issue regarding sleeping pad link

[@ezrafox4219]

Can’t even find that pad on their page which is odd

[@Prasannathani]

@@ezrafox4219 yup, searched online in general - nothing. Guessing it’s some prototype that hasn’t been released to general public? Looks like a great pad for what it claims to do.

[@wildwooddronevideos9185]

I did the same. It doesn't seem to be listed on the Hikenture site either

[@RichardWhiffen]

Looks like it's only available in the canada version of the Amazon page.

[@rungavagairun]

The lab coat! Lol That quilt system looks very cool. Definitely innovative and looks like it would be comfortable. I'm curious if it will be drafty in cold temps.

[@leviantuna8553]

I like that lid and the spoon functionality, additionally, the lighter holder is sick. I'd like to see that lid seal shut too, so that water can not get out so I can cold soak too. Some other lid that can do that to compete with the Vargo bot would be nice, especially with the Vargo bot price point.

[@steveb6444]

Awesome! I just bought a rock front quilt too. There’s not much for videos out there on it. Glad to see someone else bought one

[@randompasser-by3418]

It's because the brand is pretty much unknown outside of Ukraine. Glad they're finally making it to the international market

[@bmmaclearn]

Really in-depth video, appreciate the testing and thought that goes into these videos! The gear is fun, and the hike looks amazing! Such an awesome trail, and nice ride up there!

[@KarlaStorm]

Definitely no need to apologize for being a gearhead. I love geeking out on gear and there are very few people in my life that I can do that with, so it’s nice to watch your videos and enjoy that aspect. Also, I love your videos that are simply about your trips and enjoying the beauty of nature and being on trail. No complaints here! You’re doing a fantastic job and one of my absolute favorite backpacking KZbinrs. 🎉

[@markpeterson3400]

I enjoy your channel! I look for you videos before anyone else. I like your gear reviews, I feel you’re giving an honest assessment. I also like your trips! Your entire channel gear reviews and trips is great to watch!

[@IanTheOutdoorGuy]

Congratulations with the pot lid design and patent great work 😊. Amazing views at that campsite WOW!. I like Hoka but i find these thicker sole runners squeek. Have the same issue with my nike trail runners. Really useful and fun review video

[@RhonVanErman]

Best to you on the lid, great idea! 👍🏻

[@arthurcheng5338]

Big fan of the sneak peek gear preview and quick test format of this video! Keep it up.

[@forthememory432]

The lid is genius! Cant wait to try one! I hope there is one thats completely sealed so i can cold soak foods without fear of spilling!

[@AwkwardPenguin82]

I asked ZPacks a couple months back, and they confirmed that vest-style shoulder straps are planned to be an option to customize your backpack in the near future.

[@Brandonbdk]

That lid sounds neat!

[@jzubs]

On the note of having a “sneak peek” for upcoming gear testings, my opinion would be to do that only for very popular gear or anything hot on the market, no need to do that for weird items

[@gotfoutside8346]

Good man for talking up strength training for backpackers. Gettin stronger is the most ultralight thing you can do 💪🏻

[@shauntaylor5034]

Congrats on 100k Subscribers!! I remember finding you way back when you put out that Northover vid. So cool seeing a Calgary local grow such a great community! Keep it up!!

[@mtadams2009]

Thanks for making this video. I am an older long distance backpacker. For decades I pretty much purchased some nice gear and stayed with it for years. Now older and retired and doing much longer thru hikes I have become a bit of a gear junkie. I love my Zpacks gear especially my pack. I would like to see them make a bit more plush hip belt. I have spoken to them on this and they say they have heard this before. Nice review

[@brianadventures9622]

I like seeing the gear in the field rather than all footage just at a table, but either is fine. Thanks for checking out the new stuff! That pad has me interested!

[@RyanSchell]

I kind of like the surprise of a new product and testing it on trail. Because in reality if it is good that is less time I might have to wait to actually use it and add it to my gear

[@DissiDan]

I struggle with the materialism aspect of gear. On one hand I recognize that I'm in love with it but on the other I acknowledge that it's a bottomless pit of insatiable yearning. Hiking is that synthesis of tech and nature for me but I let the tech overrule too often.

[@15halerobert]

That top looks pretty cool.

[@capedmarauder]

Need that lid! Great idea!

[@davefox1553]

That pack looks like a lot of the ideas from the Six Moons Swift X were borrowed but made a bit lighter. However, the Swift X is a lot more customizable in terms of torso length, Hip Belt, and harness. Check it out. Love mine.

[@charlesvangorkom3628]

I’m 78 years old and love backpacking ultra lite. Using an e-skooter to cover some miles on logging roads really appeals to me I’d love more of a review addressing the potential this might or might not have for an older person.

[@harveyarmbrust3548]

Thank you for always showing affordable gear!

[@kervinonyoutube1780]

The lab coat is key 🔥

[@taylorcheney7436]

I need that lid in my life. Is there a GoFundMe so that I can pre-order?

[@zachmarshall7921]

Find a way to put a box cutter blade that can pop out of the lid. That would help with opening the food and eliminates the need for a knife

[@chrismyers46]

Congrats on the 100k milestone! Well deserved.

[@r0btimUs0341]

The mystery ranch bridger’s, strap system is similar.

[@dylanpausic5026]

Hey Justin! Hope you Steph and the baby are doing well! I would love to see sneak peaks at the gear you test. Helps me not surf the web as much to find the latest things

[@harveyarmbrust3548]

I’m not looking for ultra light gear for a through hike right now, but at 58 years old, I would always like lighter gear. Thank you for your advice.

[@frogturtle]

Love the gear reviews man! And your other videos too. If it says Justin Outdoors on it I’ll give it a watch

[@lolobeans]

Here for the gear talk! I'm so interested in that pump and also the Hikenture pad. Looking forward to the longer term reviews! And any other gear talk anytime! Thanks for the great content.

[@kegelschneckenmett2026]

Ty for showing us new gear! Great vid. Greets from Germany

[@ohhellnooooo8233]

lmao the barbell and the scooter... what did I just watch? :D excited for new camping gear, specially that they are getting higher specced on lower prices

[@RyanSchell]

I like a gear head that has the analytical approach you do. I relate to that for sure. Kind of like Stevens different approach and more scientific approach.

[@jonathankobbe6073]

That scooter is the dorkiest thing i have ever seen, absolutely love it. btw i think you could do shorts/reels/tiktoks of the products from home and kind of tease them for upcoming videos. Love your channel, keep up the great work

[@TheWanderingStone]

I love that new pack! I recently did the West Highland Way with the Ultimate Direction Fastpack 50 which is super similar but had some small issues that bugged me. Also, thumbs up for the open trap bar, I herniated a disc in my home gym and would definitely recommend prioritizing safety over everything else.

[@ChristyHikes]

The Lid!!!! Justin, I'm a huge fan of most everything Zpacks. I have my doubts with the Super Neros' wide shoulder harness for women who are larger in the chest area. I can't imagine that it would be comfortable. I enjoyed your video as always!

[@kelseyhunter5828]

That lid looks 🔥

[@benjaminkriehn7411]

I love that your videos are about gear because you being new but also really good gear that is useful to know about !

[@stormykinz2482]

Could you update us with your thoughts on the new sleeping pad once you’ve had some more time with it? Looks super intriguing. Thanks!!

[@timmo971]

I think you’re really on point with some of the gear you review. I’ve seen rock front for example not too long ago and really thought its design was everything I was looking for that’s kept me away from quilts till now.

[@JJ-mf8ru]

Hi Justin. I’m quite curious about that Super Nero 50, which is frameless and meant to be worn without a hipbelt. I thought that once you exceeded around 40L, conventional wisdom says you may need a frame and a hipbelt to distribute that heavier load that a 40L pack can accommodate. I have the Nero 38 and right at around 18lbs it got uncomfortable, even with the accessory 1” hipbelt and padded side pockets. So I upgraded to a slightly bigger “framed” HMG Waypoint 35, with a real hipbelt. I haven’t hiked with it yet. Can you share your insights on the design elements of a framed 35 with hipbelts vs a frameless 50 without hipbelts? Is the vest-style shoulder strap design able to carry the full load of a 50L, or is it just an experiment that will make this pack look like a bad idea a few years from now? Cheers! 😊

[@kallisto9166]

Hey look at that... 100K! Congratulations, it's well earned.

[@gman963]

I like vest straps. They really help distribute weight across your chest instead of just your shoulders. I've gotten an extra chest strap for my pack that didn't have it to mimic the feeling.

[@Andy-Mesa]

I've been using a Pad Pal for a while and like it, but it's worth noting that it only works for UL pads. I brought it with my MondoKing once and it didn't inflate it at all, which sucked extra hard because trying to inflate a MondoKing with your lungs is something I never ever want to have to do again. My original FlexTail normally handles it no problem. Of course, this is a UL thing so I can't fault it for that. One thing I do like about the Pad Pal is that the valve is sturdy and clips onto the pad, it's not a rubber floppy thing that has always been super fiddly for me with the Flextail.

[@fergpatrick]

Great video Justin. Where did you leave the scooter? Can you just leave it at the end of the fire road / begining of trail?

[@benparrish3863]

Cant find the pad anywhere? I love gear and gear research. Great video!

Greetings from Germany. Love your gear reviews. Especialy your sleeping pad reviews.

[@nathankoenegstein3253]

I tried the Speedgoat 6s on today! I really liked them a lot. Previous models have been too narrow in the toes for me! They had a really nice heal lock without having to excessively tighten the shoes! They may get me out of my topo’s!

[@olivern4784]

Congratulations on hitting 100k subscribers!

[@WestOfTwinPeaks]

So ready for that pot lid

[@cheri7828]

I found the Speedgoat 5's to have more volume, top to bottom in the forefoot and to be wider than Speedgoat 6's. I definitely prefer the 5's over the 6's.

[@jonnewbury3482]

The open trap bar is great for loaded carries also. 🤙🏼

[@Aidan-Lynch]

hearing you say “until i find a shoe that i like better” made me really want to see you test out Norda’s. especially being that they’re a canadian company. I feel like the 001 model would be a good platform similar to what you already enjoy hiking in

[@alanhansen6096]

Another great video, I love the lab coat, it makes it seem legit. My favorite was the lid for the pot, what a great idea, I also like to sleep system from Ukraine that is awesome. I do have to ask with the name of the beautiful lake is? I need to put it on my list for my next trip to Canada.

[@k231Style]

Great video keep them coming. What do you use to walk at your desk?

[@bobbafett1971]

I know everyone is pushing pad pumps vs blowing But geez...just use the air sack that comes with it. Super light somewhat quick and no battery or noise.

[@Mario-cr1ik]

That's what I thought for some time. Interestingly the pump sack of my sea to summit pad is heavier than a flextail zero, which surprised me. But I think the batteryless pump approach is better because you have your Powerbank anyway.

[@JesseCase]

Flextail Zero for life!!!

[@KaneDoesOutdoors]

That pack definitely looks interesting.

[@tomm469]

Hi Justin, can I ask where you filmed this? It's gorgeous!

[@devonford5351]

Can’t wait to get one of those lids

[@kallisto9166]

I would be very interested in an in-depth review of that pad. I've seen some people say it's a bit loud but if it copes with the cold as well as it claims, it's a great find!

[@hilarysdesign]

Love the pot lid. Would it be sealable so you could cold soak you're food when you don't plan on cooking?

[@ngprt]

I bought it and thought it could never reach 6,2 R-Value for that price. But honestly, their support was super detailled about how they made it so good. It is absolutely undeniably the best piece of gear without competition for 1. The price point and 2. Just the performance in general. Nobody needs an R-Value of over 6,2 tbh. But for 70€ if the R-Value is really correct, without a doubt even decathlon gear is like the same Price for half the R-Value... CRAZY thing. I was hoping someone would find this thing and review it. And here. it. is.

[@brentperron6914]

What did they say about how they made it so good? Would love to hear! I bought it on a whim a few weeks ago and it honestly seems way better than I'd expect!

[@ngprt]

@@brentperron6914 its just unbelievable. Its Said on the pictures and the R-Value Test also is but lets be real. A sea to summit pad Corsa 250€ for the exact Same R-Value of 6,2 and 70€ is just NOT believable given its a „Basic“ amazon pad. Because there is NO Single Other Brand that does this, at that Price. Not Even 50€ Cheaper, its Like 1/4 of the Price of ANY other mat near the R-Value and has EVERYTHING. Thermotaped seams and all that stuff. They Said they used 3 layers of Aluminium foil that reflects 90% of infrared light. Ill paste it here word for word.

[@ngprt]

@@brentperron6914 „We have indeed tested the R-Value of this product. According to our specialized department, the R-Value of this product may experience a slight decrease over prolonged use, but the impact is minimal. We have achieved this high R-Value by using high-quality materials and coatings, as well as advanced technology. However, we are committed to offering high-value products, which is why our pricing is more competitive compared to other brands.“ And: „Yes, the mattress you have purchased has been tested by SGS professional testing organisation and confirmed to have an R-value of 6.2. You can see the test report of this product in the main image of the product page and in the detail page. The high R-value of the mattress is not solely due to the aluminum foil but is a result of several contributing factors: 1. Reflective Aluminum Foil: The aluminum foil has high reflectivity, which allows it to reflect a significant portion of thermal radiation. Typically, aluminum foil can reflect about 95% of infrared radiation, significantly reducing heat transfer by radiation. 2. Air Pockets: The air pockets within the mattress provide additional insulation because still air is a good insulator. This reduces heat transfer by convection. 3. Multi-Layer Structure: Our high R-value mattress uses a multi-layer construction which contains two layers of aluminium foil and three layers of air pockets. Each layer adds to the overall insulation effect, enhancing the R-value. Overall, it was a combination of all three that allowed the air cushion to reach a high R-value of 6.2. Hikenture as a sports brand that is deeply committed to the outdoors. It has always been committed to letting users experience cost-effective products, with the lowest price experience to have the best quality outdoor experience. This is also our original intention of making this high R-value mattress.“

[@brentperron6914]

@@ngprt appreciate you sharing! To be honest I also think some of these companies charge insane upcharges on what the actual cost of manufacturing is. I'll be happy if it even acts as 4 R value for the price.

[@ngprt]

@@brentperron6914 i swear thats exactly what i thought. First i had a 3,3 one from Decathlon for 80€ which was a Crazy deal, then out of nowhere i was looking for another one Idk Even why cuz i already had that one but First alpin loacker had one for 80€ with 4,7 (which was a heartbrake to me since the decathlon one was more Bad for Same Price) But then on amazon i Found this beast! I Even Compared the decathlon and this one by using ice packs and Both had No cold Coming through.

[@mikerice1599]

Love the gear reviews

[@TheAlgro144]

Is the hikenture sleeping pad available yet? I can't seem to find the one featured in this video.

[@jeffreycarman2185]

From one gear head to another, thanks for the video.

[@studiopiko]

DEFINITELY sneak peeks would be awesome!

[@sebulban]

I know that other manufacturers use the same sole but for me the speedgoat 5 has been the grippiest shoe ever by far. Crazy good shoe for trail running

[@wickedgahdenguy9257]

My biggest complaint on the Speedgoat 5s was the durability of the sole! So glad they "beefed it up" for our chunky Northeast US trails. I went to the Altra Lone Peak 7s, but after these wear out i'm going to try the new SG 6!

[@BackpackingWithJason]

Really liked the Z-Packs backpack 👍🏻👍🏻

[@matthewhein9012]

Omg if I could get an ark with the chest straps that would be awesome! My minimalist 2 is my favorite pack.

[@Colby168]

Love gear review videos! I’m surprised there aren’t more false bottom type Quilts/ sleeping bags. This one looks cool but I’m not sure I need the full sheet.

[@МаксимЕремин-я6т]

Dragonfly 1p tent has not so spacious volume inside because the side walls closer to the end are kind of slide towards the middle. This actually made me some sort of uncomfortable when I was inside. This tent has huge vestibule. The pole structure actually makes the tent to stretch that inner fabric which doesn't require you to stake the corners to get that perfect look. The tent overall is very beautiful, I like the bikepack version because the orange and grey colors are just so cool. I wish they made a bigger pocket for a phone + battery pack so that it would be possible to leave the phone charging at night.

[@RideAlongside]

Do you have a PackWizard list for this trip Justin?

[@brianblack138]

So what is the piece of gear that you said is probably destined for the trash bin? You never say what that last piece is.

[@robotsongs]

Can't talk smack about a product or manufacturers won't send him more goodies to review.