MLD SOLOMID XL | Shelter & Sleep Kit

Gear in the video:
Mountain Laurel Designs Solo Mid XL
Katabatic Bristelecone Bivy
Enlightened Equipment synthetic Revelation apex quilt 40 degrees
Zpacks ground sheet

[@underdgk9]

Very nice gear choices, although personally, I might choose a 30-degree or warmer bag (Yep, vegan maters too!). You could offset the weight difference by using a DAS Light and keeping your weight (and warmth) in your bag, not your parka, since you can always wear your bag for reinforcement if needed.

[@AndyOnTheMountain]

Thanks for checking out the video. That's exactly what I was thinking of doing. I don't have the DAS light only the parka but I will end up using a MH down jacket that I have. It's around 7 oz... I'll have to do some testing before I go with this quilt and jacket. I know a 40 degree quilt would be pushing it, especially if I use a foam sleeping bad with a R rating of 2. Cheers

[@brianneal4597]

Looks like a fast and light setup for sure. I am curious as to whether you considered the Duomid, which claims an additional foot of width at the same length, for only $5 more. Not sure if the extra width would be noticeable honestly. I like that bivy, which model is that? I use a tarp/bivy combination year-round (I have the Hunka XL from Alpkit which I really like, except there is no mesh at the head and thus no bug protection). I envy you being able to get by with just the Zlite, I use an inflatable inside the bivy along with my quilt or bag. I have been considering a mid, and I would definitely appreciate some additional enclosure, especially in the cold or rain. Thanks for the up close look at a nice setup! I hope you enjoy the SHR, look forward to seeing the video(s) of your trip.

[@AndyOnTheMountain]

Thanks for checking out the video. I went with the Solomid vs Duomid because I wanted something that would pack down as small as possible. When my dog, GF and I go on trips we use the HMG Ultamid or we use the tarp so we already have a larger shelter. The bivy is the Katabatic Bristlecone. They also make one with more mesh if that's what you are looking for. (would be nice in warm conditions) Some people very much dislike the foam pad but I just love it! It's by no means very comfortable. I started my PCT thru hike (2018) with a Thermarest X-lite... Went through 2 of them ( constantly getting holes and deflating in the middle of the night) I was very careful with it as well. So after about 1600 miles of the trail I went to a foam pad. It was nice knowing I wouldn't have to worry about getting holes. Plus they are used for so many things. Cheers

[@greatpumpkinhiker]

Very nice. Ron at MLD makes rock solid gear. I use the Duomid currently but am getting either this or the Cricket next from him.

[@petercornetet8267]

Hey man, just curious why not using the inner over your bivy + dcf ground sheet. Volume and weight I think would be almost the same and you have more comfort with the inner. Not sure if I’m correct though.

[@AndyOnTheMountain]

Great question Peter. I did't purchase the inner net mostly because I'm trying to use gear I already have. I also like having a modular shelter. The bivy provides extra wind protection when above tree line compared to the inner net which it does not. Lastly when the weather is nice I don't have to set up the tent, I can slide right into my bivy which is super quick. Cheers

[@vvs3796]

how did the tent perform?

[@austininduni8662]

Randyyyyyyy!

[@AndyOnTheMountain]

He's back!

[@AlpicoolOutdoors]

hi Andy Honestly, it's hard for me not to love your channel! interested in reviewing an outdoor refrigerator? Looking forward to getting your email so we can work together further ~ thanks~!😄

[@AndyOnTheMountain]

Hi AlpicoolOutdoors, thanks for checking out the channel. You can always email me at [e-mail] - we can chat about cool fridges. Cheers