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From ULA Website:
"Ultralight Adventure Equipment was established in 2001, 2 years after Brian Frankles’ thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail. At that time a few other companies existed that catered to ultralight backpacking enthusiasts, but the majority of innovation was coming from home-based creative folks that happened to have some sewing skill, a copy of Ray Jardine’s, “A Pacific Crest Trails Hiker Handbook,” and an internet connection to share their ideas with the online trail community. While planning and hiking the PCT, Brian was caught between the intrigue of Jardine’s techniques and the traditional approach to backpacking upon which his prior experiences were based. He began his 2500 mile journey northbound from Mexico with a 25 lb base weight and a stomach full of anxiety. Brian strolled into Canada with a 12 lb base weight and the feeling that the world of long distance hiking was wide open.
After a one year apprenticeship with a local pack make, Brian took the skills he had developed and struck out on his own, designing gear that would address the needs of ultralight and lightweight hikers as well as transitioning traditionalists…a balanced compromise of comfort, function, and durability. The original gear (P-1 and P-2 Packs) were received warmly by the distance hiking community and ULA-Equipment quickly established itself as a provider of functional, durable equipment...albeit a slow provider! A 4 month backlog was standard , but the customers were incredibly gracious, recognizing that Brian was one man with one sewing machine, working hard and doing his best. In the ensuing years, Brain created packs that became the gold standard for through hikers. His first hand knowledge and backpacking skills made him one of the most respected authorities in the world of ultra light equipment."
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