>The series is also a good bridge for those making the jump from palatial backpacking to light (or ultra-light).

I can vouch for that. I went from an old Kelty Coyote 4750 to the Exos 58. Ya, the 58 is large, but I sometimes need volume for winter.

And I've got the new SMD Swift pack on order. 18 ounces.

I was looking at the conduit today... that might be a good choice but I'd still say give the alpine vapor a hard look over... it's NICCCCeEE, durable, versatile, and smaller which is the direction your going anyhow.

Level 1 I see. It's good that it helps getting you to your goals and increase safety out there. I don’t have any difficulty between GPP & SSPP but once you get to a good base most people (some not all) go on to pick a sport or specialty goal be it a marathon, tri, bike race, or climbing.

For all BPL:

I find it quizzical that some UL peeps are so analytical and discerning when it comes to fabrics, weights, burn times, caloric density, etc. Yet somehow don't get nearly that crazy when it comes to the body that carries it all. That seems exactly like not caring what’s in your pack...

I'm going to stop now, step down off of my small soapbox, because I don’t want to alienate people, seem preachy, or elitist. I just don't want people to think it's the bee’s knees or waste their time.

-T. Horz

p.s. I pm'd you.

Edited by THUNDERHORSE on 02/10/2010 20:22:36 MST.

"I find it quizzical that some UL peeps are so analytical and discerning when it comes to fabrics, weights, burn times, caloric density, etc. Yet somehow don't get nearly that crazy when it comes to the body that carries it all. That seems exactly like not caring what’s in your pack..."

I'd bet if you trolled past threads on the subject you'd find that many people here do pay a lot of attention to training. They just aren't ideological about it, as in pro/anti Crossfit, etc. You can get yourself in pretty good shape with an eclectic, but purposeful, blend of strength and cardiovascular training that doesn't have a brand name and the accompanying hype, pro's, and con's attached to it. I think maybe you are underestimating the folks here. As for folks wasting their time with Crossfit, who are you to say? Work on your own fitness and leave others to do the same in peace.