Trends

The SUL Mindset may be more than gear weights, and performance standards. Read More...

Recent developments in canister stoves have the potential to upset a lot of the industry, as the leadership seems to have passed out of the hands of Western brands and into Asia. Stoves that were trumpeted as the state of the art by well-known Western brands now look a little old, tired, heavy and, well, clunky. We look at a few of the leading edge stoves from 2012 to see where things are going. Read More...

A short film about the challenges we face when trying to expose young men to backcountry experiences. Read More...

An eclectic assortment of the staff's favorite gear for 2012. Read More...

Ten years ago, packrafters had few options. Today, the choices are many, and the future looks very promising. Read More...

“Most of the luxuries and many of the so-called comforts of life are not only not indispensable, but positive hindrances to the elevation of mankind.” -Henry David Thoreau Read More...

"This kind of cycling actually brings you closer to the land than hiking... because you must read the landscape so closely in order to ride across it." -Drew Walker, “The Talkeetna Traverse” Adventure Cyclist (Jan/Feb 2001) Read More...

Making decisions based on incorrect information negates stellar gear and knowledge, leading to trouble. It can happen far more easily than many of us would care to admit. Read More...

News from the cottage industry is conspicuously absent from Outdoor Retailer, where even modest booths can be more costly than a serious gear-buying habit. So, here are a few new and noteworthy pieces of gear from smaller manufacturers that were either released late in 2011 or are coming in 2012. Keep these items on your radar as you prepare for the coming season! Read More...

Commentary on the (lack of) gear you can love from the cottage industry. Read More...

Backpacking Light staff pick their favorite gear/cool dealio/thingy-dingy of 2011. Read More...

For those who like less on their feet, OR didn't disappoint. For those who like more on their wrist, OR didn't disappoint in that area either. And for those who venture in the outdoors as a family, there were a few nuggets worth noting. Read More...

We found lots of new lightweight shelters and sleep gear this time. We present them together in this article so you can compare them more easily. Doing so brings out some realizations regarding weight, roominess, and cost. Read More...

We sorted through tons of apparel and footwear to find the lightweight standouts suitable for hiking and backpacking. Read More...

OR delivers a fresh crop of lightweight, innovative, and useful gear. Read More...

New developments in durable and water-resistant backpack fabrics. Read More...

While the new waxless technologies are mostly in Nordic race skis and high end touring skis, we see promise for their future use in backcountry skis as well. Read More...

Stoves, shovels, poles, crampons, harnesses, and more: oh my! Read More...

From practical (bras) to indulgent (a back-country electronics charger) to "they can do new things with zippers?", the ispo show floor has it all. Read More...

Another round-up of innovations and interest, treats and treasures! Read More...

In Backpacking Light's first ever coverage of this massive trade show, we're highlighting the innovations not generally available stateside. Read More...

Since 2004, when Backpacking Light published Alan Dixon’s manifesto on Waterproof Breathable Fabric Technologies, we have been a “whisper in the wilderness” extolling the benefits of truly breathable fabrics, like eVent. Now we are seeing the beginning of a waterproof-breathable fabric revolution. Read More...

Enduring sleep deprivation and a cold, we roamed the show on the final day and found some very interesting gear – new trail crampons, very lightweight rain mitts, more collapsible trekking poles, a 9-ounce snow shovel, cool apparel and footwear, and more... Read More...

This is not our backpacking gear list (honest!); today we again report on a wide variety of new gear – a new bear canister, more collapsible trekking poles, an insulating skirt for your derriere, lightweight high output lights, an ultralight down jacket from an unlikely source, more footwear, etc, etc... Read More...

Lots of footwear today, for the trail and snow, plus an assortment of jackets, a to-die-for backcountry ski system from La Sportiva, Big Agnes introduces new lightweight trekking poles, a new Klymit skeletal sleeping pad, a 12 ounce sleeping bag from Terra Nova, a 2.3-ounce Quantum GL windshirt from Montane, and more, and more... Read More...

The show is underway and we are finding loads of new and interesting lightweight gear to report on. Enjoy! Read More...

New/upgraded snowshoes from MSR, Atlas, Tubbs, and Kahtoola; lightweight Kahtoola crampons; and a new “sidecountry” ski pack from Osprey. Read More...

Backpacking Light staff pick their favorite gear/cool dealio/place of 2010. Read More...

I love gear, but I hate paying for it. Could I get a lightweight shelter, pack, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad for under $100? And if I could... how long would it last me? Read More...

How do the classic fastpacking offerings by Ultimate Direction compare to a pack of today? Read More...

The dust has settled, sleep has been snatched, and I've processed the more intriguing themes of the Show. Read More...

We present our final lightweight gear finds and summarize the trends we noticed at this Outdoor Retailer. Read More...

Columbia Thermal Reflective, Pertex Quantum GL, Polartec Power Shield Pro, Polartec Yarn applications, and a case against wool for hiking socks. Read More...

The daily perspective: NEED. MORE. ESPRESSO. Read More...

Lightweight gear – no problem. Innovation – yes. Things we would like to see – lots of 'em. Read More...

The daily perspective: Can I just live here? Hang out and drink... beverages, talking super-tech about gear with the coolest people in the world? Read More...

Another productive day turns up another batch of truly innovative and lightweight gear. Read More...

The daily perspective: I wish that everyone could truly understand just how much brilliance and passion go into the outdoor products we buy and use. Read More...

Depending on how tuned-in you are to current running trends, you may have noticed that there is a new movement starting to gain traction among runners: barefoot running and minimalist footwear. Read More...

OR never ceases to amaze – always something new, something different, and something bizarre! The gear just keeps getting better and lighter. Read More...

The daily perspective of an industry vet on the show floor for the first time: "A fantastic all-systems overload." Read More...

While the first day of Outdoor Retailer is dedicated to water sport, we found a few products that could carry over for backpacking as well... plus some that are just plain fun, no bones about it! Read More...

SPOT and DeLorme introduce the DeLorme PN-60w with SPOT Communicator, and ACR announces the SarLink View. Both allow text messaging via satellite from remote locations, which goes beyond just chatting, enabling you to provide important information to people on the outside. Read More...

Summer OR is underway! We begin our coverage with new products from small companies who specialize in ultralight backpacking gear, including some new names. Read More...

The main reason my pack got lighter was because I realized that being prepared had little to do with the equipment I carried. Read More...

Backpacking Light staff pick their favorite gear of 2009. Read More...

Pertex Shield rainwear is more breathable than polyurethane laminates and similar in weight and price. Read More...

Brooks-Range introduces some truly lightweight gear equally suited to winter camping or summer ultralight backpacking. Read More...

New cooking systems allow a hiker to use wood fuel when conditions are right and use alcohol or Esbit fuels as a backup. Read More...

After five glorious days of all the sweet new stuff retailers can offer, we're home and recovering from the high. Our last blog blizzard of some standouts. Read More...

Rab updates their line of lightweight sleeping bags. Read More...

Klymit launches their first products based on their noble gas inflation technology. Read More...

Heineken beer can based Caldera system capable of cooking for two people. Read More...

Lots of good stuff in our day 3 roundup: a 2.4-ounce day pack, a new integrated canister fuel cooking system, new 3-pound internal frame backpacks, and 11-ounce mid-height hikers, to mention a few. Read More...

GoLite wants to give people a backcountry bedroom (with the emphasis on "room") in their new Eden tent line. These hoop-style tents boast fast set-up, big vestibules, and lots of space for living. Read More...

The Gorilla is a refined internal frame or frameless pack - the outcome of years of ultralight backpack evolution. Read More...

Internal rechargeable lithium polymer battery, 60 lumen output, three main beam modes, IPX7 (1 meter, 30 minutes) waterproof rating, 3.5 ounces, strobing rear red “taillight," all for $80.00. Read More...

While boaters know that there is nothing worse than being up a creek without a paddle, backpackers might find it just as upsetting to be up a Creek without a Fly. Thankfully, the Fly comes with the Creek in Big Agnes' lightest two-person tent ever: the Fly Creek 2. Read More...

McMurdo offers tried and true 406Mhz band Personal Locator Beacon performance in a 5.3-ounce package. How will it compare against the current crop of personal signaling devices? Read More...

Nemo Equipment Inc. throws their hat in the trekking-pole-supported-shelter ring with the Meta series of single-wall tents. Read More...

Nemo Equipment Inc. is busy at this year's OR show, introducing two new lines of tents, including the Espri series of lightweight double-wall that offer fast set-up, good protection from the elements, and a plethora of entry options. Read More...

Wednesday's standouts and goodies - we continue to find lots of interesting gear and technology stories on the floor of the Salt Palace. Read More...

ACR's newest and lightest PLB includes a high performance GPS receiver, 5 Watt 406 MHz distress signal transmission, 121.5 MHz homing capability, and a high intensity LED strobe. Read More...

A grueling first day at summer 2009 OR rewarded us with loads of lightweight goodies; here's a first installment, with more to come. Read More...

Henry Shires performs his magic once again – the new Tarptent Moment has one hoop pole, two stakes, sets up in less than a minute, and has loads of room for one person. Read More...

A bright and lightweight LED headlamp from battery giant Energizer that offers several attractive features at $30 and 3.1 oz with a lithium battery (as weighed by BPL). Read More...

New lighter and smaller SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger Read More...

CamelBak introduces a complete and easy to use UV water purification system, marking the adoption of this proven technology by a big company. Read More...

Open Air Demo consists of booths and boats – and there is always something new, something interesting, and something unique. Read More...

Personal locator devices (PLDs) are a hot, rapidly evolving area for the outdoor market. An overview of where we think it's headed (and why). Read More...

What can you expect from our coverage of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market next week? Read More...

While GPS units are getting bigger and heavier, at least they are also becoming more functional. The Garmin Oregon 550t integrates 100k topo maps, a hi-res display, and a 3.2MP digital camera. Read More...

When Jason Goldman* (not his real name) completed a thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail in less than 100 days, not too many people paid attention: it had been hiked faster by others. But this was Jason's third thru-hike of the PCT. His previous two were completed in 183 and 174 days, respectively... Read More...

Coghlan's celebrates 50 years of service to the Outdoor Industry. Read More...

There is a cost of doing business in the outdoor industry, especially as a collective whole. Can social media alleviate some of that cost, or is it simply a mechanism for increasing the clutter of information coming from OR? Read More...

Designer Sheri Tingey talks about the history of safety design in Alpacka packrafts and the latest tweaks she's made to the boats to improve whitewater performance and safety. Read More...

A few weeks after completing their 4000-mile journey by foot, ski and packraft from Seattle to the Aleutian Islands, Erin and Hig share a tale of a destructive bear encounter, their favorite gear, future plans, and why being good at transitions was a vital ingredient to the trip's success. Read More...

Backpacking Light staff pick their favorite gear of 2008. Read More...

Waterproof clothing without coatings or membranes: how they do it and how it works. Read More...

Erin and Hig's mothers weigh in with childhood anecdotes that give us a glimpse of young explorers in the making. Read More...

Erin and Hig discuss their minimal first aid kit and strategies for staying alive and well throughout a year of wilderness trekking. Read More...

The new BPL Wiki hosted by Backpacking Light! Read More...

Publisher Ryan Jordan recalls moments worth celebrating. Read More...

Backpacking Light Associate Editor Will Rietveld highlights our current favorite backpacks in three categories, evaluates some upgrades and new arrivals, and discusses the trends. Read More...

Our latest lightweight shelter roundup turns up the lightest, most user-friendly tents to be found, ever. Major manufacturers are introducing sub-four-pound double wall two-person tents. And two two-person double wall tents break through the three pound barrier. Read More...

New sleeping bag designs from Integral Designs, Montbell, Exped, Jacks ‘R’ Better, Mountain Hardwear, and REI show innovative functionality and lighter weight. Read More...

Mike Martin and Will Rietveld have the highlights on new apparel from ORSM08. Read More...

A primer on choosing footwear for fast and light backpacking, with input from the Backpacking Light staff on the footwear they use; a roundup of promising new lightweight footwear found at the summer 2008 Outdoor Retailer Show; and a description of Ion Mask, a nanotechnology waterproofing process that doesn't affect breathability and could eliminate the need for a waterproof membrane in footwear. Read More...

Twinkle, twinkle little star... Read More...

Associate Editor Will Rietveld provides an in-depth roundup of lightweight rainwear options and highlights current staff favorites, new products in the pipeline, market trends, and a new technology that could dramatically change the waterproof-breathable apparel market. Read More...

Exciting things are happening in sleeping pads this year at Cascade Designs (parent company of Therm-a-Rest) and Pacific Outdoor Equipment. Cascade Designs has an extensive new lineup of products that will surely interest lightweight hikers, including a revolutionary new pad technology that promises substantial performance improvements over existing designs. Meanwhile, Pacific Outdoor Equipment is moving towards more eco-friendly materials and is launching a very innovative product design program of which you can be a part. Read More...

Stove technology continues to advance this year, with trends of additional remote canister stoves with preheat tubes that are suitable for cold-weather operation, new alcohol and canister "cooking systems" that combine stove, windscreen, and pots into highly efficient and compact packages, plus a further move towards lighter stoves in general. Read More...

The Lightweight Tentmaker Brings Their Products to America. Read More...

New Micro Four-Thirds digital camera standard stirs hope for pro-grade, interchangeable-lens cameras that are lightweight, compact and can be tailored to your exact needs. Read More...

New offerings found at ORSM 2008 Read More...

A day at the lake to try out new watercraft and accessories. Read More...

National Geographic Maps web-based TOPO! Explorer (NG TEX) aims to be the iTunes of electronic mapping. Read More...

Will the mass market ever embrace the lightweight philosophy, or has it already? Read More...

Mike Martin gives us the skinny on what to expect from BackpackingLight.com's coverage in the coming days. Read More...

Chris Townsend's report on the OutDoor Show in Friedrichshafen, Germany, and how it compares to Salt Lake City's Outdoor Retailer Show. Read More...

Essentials commentary from BackpackingLight reader, Allison Miller. Read More...

Essentials commentary from BackpackingLight reader, Mark Henley. Read More...

Essentials commentary from BackpackingLight reader, Jim Bailey. Read More...

Perspectives from Tom Murphy, Rainbow Weinstock, and Rick Dreher on how professional photography fits with lightweight principles. Read More...

NOLS Rocky Mountain discusses the process and progress of the 40-Pound Initiative, a branch effort to reduce student pack weights to 40 pounds or less for all Wind River courses. Read More...

Affluenza, as it is defined by the authors, is “a painful, contagious, socially transmitted condition of overload, debt, anxiety and waste resulting from the dogged pursuit of more.” Read More...

Attractive and durable packaging is one thing; green packaging is quite another. The best companies have both. Learn about green packaging and see the best and worst of what the Outdoor Industry has to offer. Read More...

UltralightLiving.com explores the extension of ultralight backpacking philosophies to other areas of your life. Read More...

Traveling light, simple... and slow Read More...

The Backpacking Light Outdoor Retailer Team outfits an entire lightweight pack for a long winter weekend using only gear found at the show. Join us throughout the trip for updates as we add gear to our hyper-linked Outdoor Retailer Virtual Pack. Read More...

Virtual Pack: Garmin eTrex Vista HCx with Mapsource Topo 2008 Read More...

Virtual Pack: Light My Fire SL3 Read More...

We searched the Outdoor Retailer Show to find footwear to keep feet warm and dry while winter hiking and snowshoeing. Read More...

Virtual Pack: The latest from Nemo features two Airbeams, 36 ft 2 integrated fly, and weighs 3.5 pounds. Read More...

Virtual Pack: Patagonia R1 Hoody Read More...

We rounded up handwear of interest and suggest how they might be used in lightweight handwear systems. Read More...

Virtual Pack: Primus PowerGas 450g Canister Read More...

Virtual Pack: Crescent Moon Magnesium 9 Snowshoes Read More...

The only true limitation with the Gatherer is your imagination. Read More...

Virtual Pack: Komperdell Nature Sticks Read More...

Virtual Pack: Primus EtaExpress Pot 1.0L Read More...

Virtual Pack: Camp AT Fix Shovel Read More...

Virtual Pack: Lorpen Primaloft Light Hiker Sock Read More...

Virtual Pack: Outdoor Research Cascadia Gaiter Read More...

Virtual Pack: Improvised Tent Stakes Read More...

Virtual Pack: Sea to Summit eVac™ Drysack Read More...

Virtual Pack: Outdoor Research Endeavor Mitts Read More...

Virtual Pack: Rab Bergen Pants Read More...

Virtual Pack: Nalgene 1.5 Liter Flexible Cantene. Keep water from freezing, easily accessible, and store over 1.5 liters - ideal for winter use and Bob. Read More...

Virtual Pack: Sea to Summit Trash Dry Sack Read More...

Virtual Pack: Camp CarbonLight Avalanche Probe. The lightest avalanche probe we have yet seen: 4.4 ounces. Read More...

Virtual Pack: GoLite Speed Demon 3/4 Tights. A pair of knicker length tights that won't bunch up against high gaiters or socks. Read More...

Virtual Pack: Westcomb Specter LT Hooded Jacket Read More...

Virtual Pack: Ibex Wool Glove Liner Read More...

Virtual Pack: Petzl MYO XP Headlamp. A hedlamp for all conditions that will keep Bob bathed in light. Read More...

Virtual Pack: Adventure Medical Kits Rescue Howler Read More...

Virtual Pack: Pieps DSP Avalanche Beacon. Easy to use yet capable avalanche beacon that weighs 7.0 ounces Read More...

Virtual Pack: Outdoor Research Helium Quick Sack Read More...

Virtual Pack: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight .3 Read More...

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Virtual Pack: GSI Outdoors Rehydrate Spoon Read More...

Virtual Pack: Manzella Tahoe Glove Read More...

Virtual Pack: Terramar Terramawool Longsleeve Crew Shirt. This silk and wool baselayer top should keep Bob comfortable and warm. Read More...

Virtual Pack: Golite Speed Demon Three Quarter Tight Read More...

Virtual Pack: Outdoor Research Ninjaclava Read More...

This first lightweight backpack from Big Sky seems to be very well thought out, and has some unique features. Read More...

Virtual Pack: Golite Hooded Inferno Jacket Read More...

Virtual Pack: Snowballs Read More...

Virtual Pack: MontBell UL Superstretch Down Hugger #1 Read More...

Virtual Pack: Steripen Journey Read More...

Virtual Pack: Day Two Meals Read More...

Virtual Pack: Day One Meals Read More...

Virtual Pack: Day Three Meals Read More...

Virtual Pack: Numa Sport Optics Lo-Pro Read More...

Virtual Pack: Snow Peak raises the bar for remote canister stoves designed to work with inverted canisters: they have increased power and reduced weight. Read More...

Virtual Pack: Keen Growler Read More...

Virtual Pack: MontBell UL Down Inner Pants Read More...

Both tents have multiple configurations available. The summer version of the Montana is a two-person double-wall tent that weighs as little as 2 pounds 1.7 ounces and the winter version is just 3 pounds 9.5 ounces! Read More...

Clear your Visa card, kids, because this is going to cost you. Read More...

Virtual Pack: Therm-a-Rest Ridge Rest Deluxe Sleeping Pad Read More...

Virtual Pack: Outdoor Research Highpoint Cap Read More...

Virtual Pack: GoLite Pinnacle Backpack Read More...

Ex means Extra Light baby! 7-denier shell, 900-fill down, 5.4 ounces - this jacket is a highlight of the show. Read More...

Backpacking Light staff pick their favorite gear of 2007 Read More...

Noteworthy new bags from Golite, Big Agnes, The North Face, and Rab. Read More...

The Outdoor Indsutry Embraces The Green Movement Read More...

Got a waterbottle? Want a one-ounce support for your camera? Read More...

Pacific Outdoor Equipment adds new innovative pads featuring Aerogel insulation from Aspen Aerogels to their lineup. Read More...

Seamless underwear for men and women from Ibex. Read More...

The Convertible creates a new “Light Four-Season Tent” category, and the Mirage will challenge the lightest three-season single wall tents currently available. Read More...

Ultralight pack cover, rain skirt, and rain mitts. Read More...

Sub 1-oz, single AAA battery flashlight with optional 60-lumen output for 1 hour. Read More...

New four LED 0.6 ounce Photon will really light up the night, and it's rechargeable from a single flashlight battery. Read More...

A pedometer based navigational watch that does away with the foot pod. Read More...

Full US coverage with USGS 1:24K digital downloadable maps are available for Magellen and DeLorme GPS units. Read More...

New dinner choices at Summer OR not very plentiful Read More...

Water treatment technologies are evolving and offering more options for backpackers to save weight, save time, and stay hydrated. Read More...

Finally a compact Caldera Cone Stove System! Read More...

Finally, a truly lightweight and comfortable inflatable sleeping pad, and it's a great value, but keep some patches handy. Read More...

Fingerless 1 ounce/pair gloves for sun and blister protection. Read More...

GoLite goes lighter in their shoe line with this shoe built for speed. Read More...

Not be the lightest 2000 cubic inch (32 liter) pack available, but it may well be the most comfortable. Read More...

Inov-8 improves on its most popular shoes. They are lighter with more cushion. Read More...

A 13-oz/370-gram (per boot, US9/UK8) ultralight backpacking boot with the right mix of hybridized shoe-boot features for ultralight backpacking. Read More...

An utralight monopole shelter that requires no trekking poles sets up with as little as two stakes Read More...

Looks like a Platy, but a 2-liter flask weighs only 0.8 ounce and costs $4. Read More...

Pack cover with an integrated hood – what a clever idea! Read More...

At 2.15 ounces this new stove from Snow Peak sets a new weight record for canister stoves. Read More...

The SPOT Personal Tracker offers emergency locating capability with unique features at low cost and weight. Read More...

New line of sub 10 ounce shoes hit the market Read More...

Waterproof and shockproof MP3 player that sports a screen and weighs 1 ounce. Read More...

Fourteen new lightweight single wall tents, some with breathable fabric Read More...

Golite rejoins the hoodless quilt market with an innovative new bag. Read More...

Solid and perforated wool construction make this series of clothing more breathable. Read More...

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A pillow that feels real that weighs 3.2 ounces Read More...

A preview of new products at ORSM Read More...

Trends Editor Craig Mortensen discusses the joys of simplification and describes his transition to an ultralight load. Read More...

Single wall tents made of the more-breathable-than-Gore-Tex eVENT fabric caused a lot of excitement upon their introduction a few years ago. At last, a nearly condensation free single wall tent was possible. Then suddenly, eVENT tents were no longer available. Now a new wave of fabrics touted as “highly breathable” are appearing in single wall tents. What happened? Are these new fabrics as good as eVENT? Read More...

New manufacturer of tents with potential for lightweight backpacking, if they make the tents available with lighter fabrics. Read More...

New manufacturer of tents with potential for lightweight backpacking, if they make the tents available with lighter fabrics. Read More...

Several lightweight, well-designed, multi-purpose products to aid the lightweight backpacker, while reducing our environmental impacts. Read More...

Several lightweight, well-designed, multi-purpose products to aid the lightweight backpacker, while reducing our environmental impacts. Read More...

This two-pole, wedge, solo, double wall tent is quite something at 4 pounds. Read More...

Another entry into the expanding remote canister stove market featuring support for canister inversion. Read More...

Carbon skis provide a truly ultralight backcountry experience. Read More...

Guns, fire, merge into new innovations at Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 2007. Read More...

10.6 ounces (300 grams) for the 54 centimeter B rated model. Read More...

Weighing in at just 3.8 ounces, it's a smart application of ultralight Cuben fabric to alpine-style emergency shelters. Read More...

These energy bars are EXACTLY like something your Momma would make. Read More...

G3 and Ortovox reveal clever new snow shovel designs. Read More...

A good sounding, 35 gram, waterproof and shock resistant MP3 player. Read More...

Big Agnes shows an eVent hooped bivy. Read More...

The beauty of the SmarTube is that it enables you to use an ordinary (free) PET water bottle (or other plastic bottle) as a hydration reservoir. Read More...

National Geographi continues to expand and improve their series of topographic mapping software. Read More...

The full-height Viper at 19.6 ounces per boot (men's 9) sets a new standard for a lightweight insulated boots. Read More...

Polish manufacturer Warmth Unlimited launches its line of lightweight garments and bags in the US. Read More...

...and saves weight in the process. Read More...

Shoeboard re-designs their snowshoe and introduces the Pocket Ski, creating snowshoe-ski systems weighing not more than 2.5 pounds per foot. Read More...

At 0.8 ounces McNett's SilFix is the lightest and most complete catastrophic repair kit for silicone coated nylon fabrics we have seen. Read More...

New lightweight eVENT and PrimaLoft jackets, and an upgrade to the classic Rab Top Bag. Read More...

A lightweight Gore-Tex XCR trail running shoe from New Balance, and a really light 10-ounce shoe, both with some great features. Read More...

A day in the life of BPL editors in Salt Lake City Read More...

Pertex defies adversity, emerges with new product line. Read More...

A sock to fill the void between the very short and the rather long enters the range of Darn Tough Vermont socks. Read More...

A day in the life of BPL editors in Salt Lake City. Read More...

Innovative, lightweight sack with many potential uses. Read More...

Versatile micro-sized gooseneck LED offers miniaturized version of the classic book light. Read More...

New 7 ounce down jacket for women. Read More...

A very lightweight and highly wind and water-resistant hat for active winter endeavors. Read More...

Lite Dogz telemark bindings combine a unique set of features at minimum weight. Read More...

MontBell continues to upgrade and add versatility to its lineup of lightweight down jackets. Read More...

SolaTec AeroVest: Look like Arnold and stay warm, in this inflatable two-ounce emergency vest. Read More...

Inov-8 expands their RocLite line of ultralight trail shoes with a waterproof-breathable mid-height shoe that some might call...an ultralight boot. Read More...

Discover unheard of freedom of movement and breathability. Read More...

Light My Fire shows a revolutionary lightweight cooktool for the whittle challenged. Read More...

Improved fabrics, lighter weight and lower prices - too good to be true? Read More...

The ACR MicroFix Personal Locator Beacon weighs just 10 ounces. Read More...

Bomber one-person, four-season, single wall tent with waterproof/breathable fabric and enough room for gear. Read More...

Video, audio, and photography illustrating snow stability (pit) assessment, avalanche transceiver use, and a winter day hiker's best friend: the bothy shelter. Read More...

The Backpackinglight teams spends a day at Backcountry Base Camp prior to the start of the show. Read More...

Evernew enters the water bottle and hydration bladder market with a big splash. Read More...

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After years of development, Scarpa, Crispi, and Rottefella show their long-awaited NTN boots and bindings at ORWM. Read More...

Jetboil refines hanging system, preserves simplicity of component integration. Read More...

An eclectic assortment of favorite gear for 2006. Read More...

Looking for a bivy sack made out of eVENT fabric? Take your pick at Integral Designs. Read More...

Trends and highlights in lightweight apparel from Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2006. Read More...

Sleeping Bags continue to drop weight with new materials and construction techniques. Read More...

Exciting, awesome, exhausting, intense, and hectic are just some adjectives that describe the chaos of OR. Read More...

Nite Ize rescues the knot challenged among us with their Figure 9 Rope Tightener. Read More...

Outdoor Research unveils an 18 ounce, fully-featured waterproof bivy sack. Read More...

One-person, single-wall, free-standing, breathable fabric, 28 ounces. Read More...

Hammock options continue to grow with the ENO SingleNest. Read More...

These items stray a bit from backpacking, but frankly we were impressed with their quality construction, lightweight, compactability, and usability. They would also make very nice gifts. Read More...

What do you get when you cross the Nimbus Meridian and the Vapor Trail? The Meridian Vapor of course! Read More...

Why the HydraCoach may have absolutely zero applicability for lightweight backpacking. Read More...

Kahtoola, the traction people, were at summer OR to show their latest refinements to their Flight Snow travel system, so we dropped by to check them out. Read More...

Serious lightweight backpacks from Kelty. Read More...

For 2007, Macpac adds a new line of lightweight backpacks with lightweight durable fabrics and a very nice feature set. Read More...

The essence of gloveness! Read More...

NEMO claims to have found an eVENT replacement for their waterproof breathable tents Read More...

Digital Altimeters with numerous features and a space-age materials analog watch that will stun you. Read More...

LED headlamps continue to proliferate with both high power and ultralight headlamps. Read More...

Hybrid aluminum alloy ice axe and crampons with reinforced steel alloys for the business ends. Ultralight, with high performance. Read More...

New lightweight full-featured internal frame packs from GoLite come in both men's and women's versions. Read More...

Three more inexpensive but robust hammocks enter the fray giving hammock campers even more options Read More...

The Ultralite Backpacker A-sym takes a 7 ounce diet Read More...

New 1.3 ounce sock/gaiter from Inov-8 Read More...

Extra cushion offers entry point to Inov-8 line Read More...

Tougher, lighter, and softer eVENT jackets Read More...

A 3 lb Tent Withstands 136 mph Winds Read More...

You would think Osprey has enough packs, but they keep coming out with more! Read More...

Hey, move over Jetboil and MSR, Primus is also coming to the table with an integrated system. Woo-hoo, the competition is heating up! Read More...

Princeton Tec has reduced the weight of their 3-Watt LED Apex Pro by nearly 4 ounces. Read More...

This Shelter's Made for Dancing Read More...

At 4.0 ounces the SteriPEN Adventurer weighs less than most filters and starts to be weight competitive against chemical treatments Read More...

An inexpensive bugproof camping hammock with potential. Read More...

Black Diamond adds two new light weight, single-walled shelters to their Superlight line. Read More...

Get Used to Smaller Lighter High-performance GPS units with limited navigation features Read More...

GoLite's new backpack lineup for 2007 expands on the success of the Jam with new designs, colors, and smarter feature sets. Read More...

New lightweight, and very different footwear, from GoLite and Timberland's Invention Factory and R&D teams promise good drainage, breathability, light weight, and excellent stability on irregular terrain. Read More...

The Kestrel 4500 adds a digital compass to an already impressive portable weather meter Read More...

A 4.3 ounce trekking pole from Komperdell with straps and ultralite carbide Alpine tips for only $100 Read More...

The integrated canister stove category just blew wide open with the imminent arrival of MSR's new Reactor. It's claimed to be the fastest-boiling, most fuel-efficient, windproof cooking system available. And there's another integrated canister stove coming from a different stove maker. BPL will cover this tomorrow night. Move over Jetboil! Read More...

Update to CD-based Trails Illustrated national parks maps Read More...

Using aerogel technology from Aspen Aerogels, Pacific Outdoor Equipment launches what could be the warmest sleeping pad ever. Read More...

Ultralight merino wool garments with an eye on responsible and effective fiber treatment. Read More...

Your old 3 ounce canister stove weighing you down? Talk to Primus. Read More...

Ultralight personal locator beacon, but with a catch: no satellites... Read More...

A portable 12-volt power pack to recharge your portable electronics. Read More...

What's coming, what could be cool, what could be a dud. Read More...

Before the chaos of the Outdoor Retailer Show we get ready with the Open Air Demo. Read More...

Hummer Grabs Limelight at Open Air Demo. Read More...

A letter to the readers of Backpacking Light Magazine. Read More...

Closing comments and new gear from the slowest show in years leaves us already planning (hoping) for a more exciting Summer Market, still seven months away. Read More...

The first jacket to offer retractable insulation, so you can adjust your temperature level on the fly, without taking the jacket off. Read More...

An analysis of the evolution of backpacking gear in the context of real innovation. Read More...

3 single-segment, carbon fiber, poles from Leki Read More...

Outdoor Industry Association keynote makes members squirm… we hope Read More...

2-Segment, less than 10 ounces per pole, carbon fiber and aluminum construction Read More...

Foam shoe with neoprene, pull-tight ankle cuff. Read More...

Lightweight, supportive and cushioning insoles. Read More...

The original foam, waterproof shoe relaunches. Read More...

Serious hand protection for a variety of outdoor or work activities. Read More...

Lightweight PrimaLoft insulated down booty to wear in a backcountry hut or in your sleeping bag. Read More...

Rated as “best fit” by another magazine, the Terrastryders have been updated for 2006. Read More...

New for 2006, the Arreba is a women-specific lightweight pack with a very nice feature set, including huge hipbelt pockets. Read More...

Light, foam "Crocs" style camp shoe. Read More...

Coffee extract in single serving packets: 100% organic, Kosher, no preservatives, and - oh yeah - really good. Read More...

New tents by Kelty are a strong entry into the lightweight gear market. Read More...

Three person version of the Hubba and Hubba Hubba Read More...

New 4-person adventure racing tent that accommodates two normal people and weighs just 2.9 pounds. Read More...

A new technical trail runner coming from New Balance, available in extended sizes and widths. Read More...

New manufacturer, with a suite of reasonably priced multi-sensor watches that are claimed to be user-friendly. Read More...

For head/neck protection on the trail, in your sleeping bag, or robbing a bank, this new balaclava is light, stretchy, and warm. Read More...

A ski-pole supported day-use shelter to provide refuge from the storm during winter tours. A more polished version of the British "Bothy" bag. Read More...

A natural energy, now that’s a novel idea! Read More...

Bandage meant to prevent blisters before they happen or reduce pain of already formed blisters. Read More...

Very light weight 900-fill down full-zip jacket. Read More...

Part of North Face’s Flight Series, the new Skareb packs have cutting edge components and features. Read More...

An assortment of quality, lightweight backpacks from Vaude of Germany are now available in the US with Liberty Mountain as the distributor. Read More...

An extremely durable and versatile pack, at home on an ice wall or a trail. Read More...

The most durable (and unique) adventure racing pack in the world? Read More...

Gad, these are the most high-tech socks I have ever seen! Read More...

Redefining the outdoor industry by including any done-by-dinner activity performed outdoors (or perhaps, indoors with outdoor wallpaper) may fuel OIA's power as scope as a trade organization and lobbying group, but what about the soul of its users fighting for the value of wilderness connection? Read More...

The multi-fuel capable Fyrestorm can fill all niches. Read More...

Float to the surface of an avalanche and increase your survival chances 10 times. Read More...

A 3.5 ounce, 4-LED headlamp with bright light off 3 AAA batteries Read More...

0.9 and 1.3 liter non-stick titanium pots Read More...

A multi-fuel stove with manual ignition for 12 ounces. Read More...

New top of the line snowshoe with a carbon fiber foot plate and a binding that clamps to the welt of your boot, eliminating the heel strap. Read More...

Now this is more like it – a lighter weight backcountry snowshoe from Atlas with a full feature set and good packability. Read More...

Incredibly comfortable sport bra now available for larger busted women. Read More...

Darn strong claims, and a lifetime warranty! Read More...

A premium quality one or two person tarp with catenary sides, sidewalls, and optional end vestibules. Read More...

A great balance of durability, comfort, convenience, versatility, and light weight. Read More...

How’s this, a carbon fiber frame that weighs only 1 pound per shoe! Read More...

New 17.5 micron fabric in Men's and Women's garments Read More...

Gloves for your feet! Read More...

A 15 denier Quantum, new ultralight Endurance fabrics, and true waterproof-breathables are on the horizon for the Pertex brand. Read More...

Definitely not the water treatment pills in glass bottles that your Daddy showed you how to use. Read More...

SPF 30 moisturizer sunscreen in small serving sizes. Read More...

Technical, lightweight wool hoodie. Read More...

Wool next to skin with synthetic, wind resistant knit outer layer. Read More...

Reusable, washable microfleece nose wiper for your gloves, mittens, or hands. Read More...

In the uncrowded 3,000 cubic inch ultralight backpack category, the Conduit will make the ultralight enthusiast smile. Read More...

An ultralight, yet durable daypack or overnight backpack. Read More...

A major upgrade to a top of the line mapping program for both Macintosh and Windows users. Read More...

Kites, sustainability, and why not: MORE NEW GEAR. Read More...

Jetboil introduces a 1.5 L capacity cooking system suitable for group cooking Read More...

1.25 Watt single LED headlamp powered by 3 AAA batteries that weighs just 4.2 ounces Read More...

New avalanche shovels from Black Diamond: don't expect any weight savings, but BD's new shovels offer some engineering advantages over older models. Read More...

A simple, low cost jacket that is the new lightweight standard in woven rainwear Read More...

A 4 ounce wind pant with a polyester/carbon fabric Read More...

10-ounce shoes for trail and adventure racers that a few hardy "soles" may find useful for lightweight backpacking. Read More...

11.2 oz Gore-Tex XCR adventure racing shoe with slick, integrated Gore-Tex gaiter. Read More...

10.5 oz supportive running shoe with claimed improved propulsion efficiency. Read More...

A single hoop bivy based on Nemo's air-supported beam structure, with a unique and very usable twist on the bivy sack concept. Read More...

Lightweight overshoe and gaiter all in one! Read More...

NEOS adds steel studs for more traction to their insulated overboots. Read More...

Sleeping pad for hot, humid weather that helps keep you cool. Read More...

A 19 ounce bag designed for the ultralight enthusiast Read More...

A 15 ounce half bag from Western Mountaineering Read More...

Do you use carbo gels or drink mixes while backpacking? Protein-supplemented sports formulas from Accelerade may improve performance and muscle recover over long distances. Read More...

High performance winter recreational sled that can double as a pulk. Read More...

Move over Northern Lites and MSR, there’s a new kid on the block with lightweight snowshoes! Read More...

Staff Favorites - Our gear picks from the 2005 hiking and backpacking season. Read More...

Backpacking Light Magazine Partners with GoLite, NOLS, to Bring Lightweight Backpacking Courses to NOLS Curriculum Read More...

Pre-mixed, one-step chlorine dioxide water treatment / disinfection solution. No mixing and easy to use. Say goodbye to iodine. Read More...

My guess is that if you feel the need to add a GPS unit for "safety" or "efficiency", then you've got more serious gaps in your skill set that need to be addressed. Read More...

Do bear canisters reflect poor management policy and only serve to increase bear tolerance of humans? Read More...

Forest Service award recognizes Will Rietveld and spouse Janet Reichl for Leave No Trace education and research. Read More...

Backpacking Light staff tastes - and scores - several backpacking foods from AlpineAire, Backpacker's Pantry, Cache Lakes, and Natural High. Read More...

Commentary on the growing trend of lightweight gear in the outdoor industry, and the identification of a rapidly growing need for meaningful education and awareness about lightweight techniques. Read More...

Epic jacket and full zip pants. Read More...

Big Agnes makes a few key changes to materials and structure to shave weight off the already light Seedhouse SL and Sarvis product lines. Read More...

0.8 ounces for a single LED headlamp. Read More...

A light and stable solo tent you can sit up in. Read More...

The lightest windshirts in the world? Read More...

Technical backpacking shirt Read More...

Altimeter, compass, time, chronograph, and more in a 2 ounce wristwatch Read More...

Combination cagoule and shelter. Read More...

Merino wool zip top. Read More...

Sub-half-ounce, any-conditions pen. Read More...

Wind and weather meter for less than 2 ounces Read More...

Popular bag in a shorter, women's version. Read More...

Insulated bivy. Read More...

A sculpted and well-fitting cross between a soft shell and a wind shirt that is comfortable, stylish, and from a performance standpoint, incredibly versatile. Read More...

Sample of Osprey's new Stratos line of packs, which are designed on the same air mesh backpanel, but with varying types of outings in mind. Read More...

A classy, functional, analog altimeter wristwatch from St. Moritz Read More...

Emerging trends in footwear focus on freeing the feet for natural biomechanics. The result: lower weight, more flexibility, and a new kind of freedom. Read More...

Big Agnes Adds 3-Person Tent, Seedhouse SL 3 to line. Read More...

Supportive "star" web design for high impact activities. Read More...

Discontent with cramped space in your tent? Try the Malcontent - one of the roomiest three-season tent systems on the market, with modularity, excellent storm protection, and adaptability for all four seasons. Read More...

Spoons of a standard length are just not long enough. Read More...

Double wall, hoop tent. Read More...

Lightweight three-season shelter for two. Read More...

An insulated poncho, full zip rectangular bag, and a 2-person quilt. Read More...

Two eVENT bivy sacks lighter than South Col. Read More...

Two very light “camp” sandals good enough to do some walking. Read More...

An 11 oz lightweight pack or tough summit pack/stuff sack. Packs into its hood. Read More...

Two person single wall tent. Read More...

Palatial bug and rain free area for two people at well under 2 lbs Read More...

One of a select few light and fully featured windshirts Read More...

Weight shaving full length hybrid self-inflating/inflatable mattress. Read More...

Lightweight four season self-inflating pad. Read More...

Insulated blow-up sleeping pad. Read More...

Even in normal high output mode the MYOBELT XP will throw a beam 45 meters. Read More...

Headlamp weighs 59 grams without it's 3 AAA batteries. Read More...

More energy efficient than the single 1 watt LED of the EOS. Read More...

Beware, this light may blister the paint of your walls if you aren’t careful. Read More...

Hybrid single wall/double wall tent. Read More...

Five panel equilateral triangle tarp. Read More...