Ultralight Columnist’s Farewell: The Gear That Earned My Money After Five Years of Reviewing

Published September 2, 2026, 11:50 AM

After five prolific years and over 100 in-depth articles chronicling the pursuit of minimal weight on the trail, I am stepping down from my role as Backpacker‘s dedicated ultralight columnist. The journey has been rich with encounters with remarkable individuals, compelling narratives of adventure, and unforgettable expeditions. However, rather than recounting these experiences, I will focus on the subject that has dominated my tenure and, arguably, holds a special, albeit sometimes unspoken, place in the heart of every ultralight hiker: gear.

Over the course of reviewing hundreds of products, I’ve developed a discerning palate for what truly performs. Some items have garnered my enthusiastic endorsement, many have elicited a neutral response, and a select few have been met with outright disappointment. Were I not afforded the privilege of early access to the latest innovations in ultralight equipment – a privilege that will soon conclude – these are the pieces of gear I would personally invest my own hard-earned money in.

The Worthy Investments: Gear That Commands My Personal Expenditure

Frameless Backpacks with Enhanced Vest Straps: A Return to Simplicity and Comfort

For a period, like many seasoned ultralighters, I found myself questioning the enduring appeal of frameless backpacks. After all, modern internal suspension frames have achieved remarkable feats in terms of weight reduction, structural integrity, and overall comfort. Yet, a recent evolution in backpack design – the emergence of slightly wider, more elastic "vest-style" straps – has irrevocably drawn me back to the elegant simplicity of frameless packs. In my experience, these new strap configurations represent a comfort enhancement on par with a sophisticated lightweight suspension system, all while preserving the uninhibited freedom of movement that has always been the hallmark of a frameless design. Their genius lies in their ability to distribute the load more evenly across the entire torso, rather than concentrating pressure solely on the shoulders. Furthermore, they offer significantly more surface area for the convenient placement of shoulder strap pockets, a feature that streamlines access to essential items on the move. My preference leans towards straps that aren’t full-fledged running vest harnesses, but rather those exhibiting a subtle increase in width towards the base. The Gossamer Gear Skala 38 exemplifies this design philosophy. This pack, in my estimation, represents a near-perfect iteration of the frameless concept: it is exceptionally lightweight, elegantly simple in its construction, supremely comfortable for extended wear, and priced affordably enough to avoid inducing buyer’s remorse with each addition to the shopping cart. The strategic distribution of weight across the torso, coupled with the increased utility of shoulder strap pockets, transforms the carrying experience, making even longer treks feel more manageable. This design evolution addresses a key challenge in frameless packs: maintaining comfort during extended periods of wear, a feat it achieves through thoughtful ergonomic considerations.

The Dual Reign of Alpha Direct and Tecnowool: Superior Midlayer Performance

While Polartec Alpha Direct has already garnered widespread acclaim, and I could dedicate pages to its merits, its popularity speaks volumes. The accolades are, in fact, entirely justified; Alpha Direct truly delivers on its promise of exceptional warmth coupled with remarkable breathability. However, a formidable contender has emerged, challenging its dominance. My current favorite midlayer is, in fact, the Farpointe Tecnowool Cruiser. Tecnowool offers a breathability comparable to Alpha Direct, with only a marginal increase in weight. What sets it apart, however, is its superior comfort: it boasts a softer feel, greater stretch, and a distinct advantage in odor resistance, a crucial factor for multi-day excursions. The construction of Tecnowool, where wool fibers are tufted onto a synthetic base, creates a unique textile that balances the natural benefits of wool – its warmth, breathability, and odor resistance – with the durability and quick-drying properties of synthetics. This hybrid approach results in a garment that feels luxurious against the skin while performing admirably under demanding conditions. The inherent loft of the wool fibers traps air effectively, providing excellent insulation without contributing to excessive bulk. This makes it an ideal layer for transitioning between varying temperatures and activity levels. Unlike some purely synthetic fabrics that can feel clammy when wet, the wool component in Tecnowool helps to manage moisture, allowing perspiration to wick away from the body while retaining warmth. This is a critical distinction for maintaining comfort during strenuous ascents or in unpredictable weather. The slightly heavier nature compared to Alpha Direct is a trade-off that, in my opinion, is more than compensated for by the enhanced comfort and reduced propensity for odor accumulation. This makes it a more practical and enjoyable choice for prolonged use in the backcountry, where hygiene and comfort are paramount.

Showers Pass Cloudburst Hoodie: The Rain Jacket That Defies Convention

The proposition of investing in an expensive rain jacket has always been a difficult one for me to wholeheartedly embrace. Decades of marketing notwithstanding, the reality is that most high-end rain shells fall short in terms of breathability, often leaving the wearer feeling more clammy than dry. The water-repellent coatings, essential for their peak performance, inevitably degrade over time, diminishing their effectiveness. But perhaps the most significant drawback, in my view, is their inherent discomfort. This discomfort transforms them into what I consider a single-use piece of equipment – functional only when actively being rained upon. The characteristic loudness, stiffness, and propensity to induce sweating associated with conventional rain jackets make them an undesirable garment for any activity other than their intended purpose. In my current locale of Idaho, where prolonged rainy periods are infrequent, this renders them even less practical.

However, there exists one rain jacket that has successfully compelled me to reconsider my stance and justify a splurge: the Showers Pass Cloudburst Hoodie. Retailing at $260 and tipping the scales at nearly 10 ounces, I readily admit these figures might initially raise an eyebrow among dedicated ultralight enthusiasts. Yet, its performance in the field paints a different picture. This jacket possesses a rare and highly coveted combination of attributes: it is exceptionally breathable, remarkably comfortable, and, crucially, unfailingly waterproof. The fabric itself is a revelation – soft to the touch, remarkably quiet in its movement, and possesses a pleasing stretch. These qualities translate into a garment that I find myself wearing not just during downpours, but far more frequently. Its airy construction and robust waterproofing provide the confidence needed to tackle a full weekend of hiking in persistent rain. Simultaneously, its comfort level is so high that I readily employ it as a windbreaker, both on the trail and during casual outings around town. When paired with the aforementioned Tecnowool layer, it effectively functions as my ideal softshell jacket, offering a versatile and comfortable system for a wide range of conditions. The only perceived deficiency, and it is a minor one, is the absence of pit zips, which would undoubtedly elevate its ventilation capabilities to absolute perfection. The fabric’s inherent stretch also contributes to a greater range of motion, reducing the restrictive feeling often associated with waterproof garments. This enhanced mobility is particularly beneficial during dynamic activities like hiking, where freedom of movement is essential.

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT: The Ultimate Four-Season Sleeping Pad

An investment in a high-quality air sleeping pad is something I have made in the past and would readily do again, though I must acknowledge that current pricing is indeed escalating significantly. Were I to be making a purchase today, my selection would invariably be the lightest four-season pad that I personally find comfortable, and for me, that distinction belongs to the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT. My rationale for this choice is rooted in three straightforward, yet compelling, reasons. Firstly, its weight penalty is negligible when compared to its three-season counterpart, the NeoAir XLite. Secondly, and this is a crucial differentiator, it stands as the sole pad within its category to feature a robust 70-denier nylon bottom. This significantly surpasses the 20-, 30-, and 40-denier fabrics commonly found in competing pads, representing a substantial upgrade in durability and resilience against the abrasive forces of the backcountry. Thirdly, there is simply no compelling reason to relegate a winter-rated pad to seasonal use. My extensive experience has demonstrated that these pads do not inherently sleep hotter in warmer weather. In fact, during intensely hot conditions, I have become increasingly convinced that the additional mylar layers actually contribute to a cooler sleeping experience by establishing a more effective thermal barrier against the heat radiating from the ground. When you factor in Therm-a-Rest’s industry-leading lifetime warranty, the XTherm NXT presents itself as a potential lifelong sleeping pad investment – provided one can readily accept the modest 2 to 3 ounce increase in weight. The peace of mind offered by the robust construction and the comprehensive warranty makes this slight weight increase a worthwhile trade-off for the longevity and reliability it provides. The 70-denier bottom fabric is a game-changer for durability, reducing the risk of punctures and tears from rocks, roots, and other trail debris, which are common causes of premature pad failure. This increased robustness translates to fewer worries and a more dependable sleep system.

The Summer Sleeping Quilt: An Ultralight Luxury That Becomes a Necessity

For many years, I adhered to a philosophy of sleeping bag minimalism, relying on a single 20-degree down bag for virtually every outdoor excursion. I still maintain that a well-constructed three-season bag represents the most versatile option available for a broad spectrum of conditions. However, if I were to indulge in a particular gear splurge, it would undoubtedly be a high-quality summerweight sleeping quilt. For me, a 40-degree quilt, which packs down smaller and weighs less than many down jackets, represents the ultimate "nice-to-have" upgrade. Consider, for instance, the Cumulus Neo Quilt 150. Weighing in at a mere 9.5 ounces and compressing to the size of a Nerf football, this quilt provides all the warmth I require for the majority of my summer expeditions. Once I experienced the unparalleled comfort and efficiency of a truly ultralight summer quilt, it became exceedingly difficult to justify carrying my heavier 20-degree bag unless the forecast specifically dictated its necessity. The reduction in both packed volume and weight is significant, freeing up valuable space in my pack and reducing overall carrying load. This allows for a more enjoyable and less strenuous hiking experience, especially during warmer months when bulkier insulation is not required. The open design of a quilt also enhances ventilation, preventing overheating and allowing for a more comfortable night’s sleep in warmer temperatures. While a sleeping bag offers complete enclosure, a quilt provides the flexibility to vent as needed, simply by adjusting its position or extending a leg. This adaptability makes it a superior choice for summer camping, where temperature fluctuations can be significant.

The Unnecessary Expenses: Gear That Doesn’t Warrant My Personal Investment

Dyneema, Ultra, and Composite Fabrics: Diminishing Returns on Investment

I have dedicated a significant portion of my review efforts to meticulously examining packs constructed from Ultra fabric, tents crafted from Dyneema, and the groundbreaking advancements in ultra-high-molecular-weight-polyethylene (UHMWPE) textiles. Their inherent strength and durability are undeniable, and the continuous development of new iterations of these composite fabrics has undoubtedly been one of the most impactful innovations in backpacking gear over the past decade.

However, despite their impressive technical credentials, these fabrics fail to capture my personal spending. The primary deterrent is their exorbitant cost, coupled with inherent drawbacks that I find unacceptable for my personal use.

Take, for example, packs constructed from Ultra or Graflyte. In the context of a backpack, I contend that the fabric material plays a relatively minor role. An ultralight pack utilizes a comparatively small yardage of fabric, making it an unsuitable area to prioritize the absolute lightest material available. Furthermore, my personal experience has not revealed a dramatic difference in durability compared to more conventional materials. While tear resistance is a significant advantage, composite fabrics present their own set of challenges. Certain iterations have exhibited lamination issues, where the film bonding the fabric layers begins to delaminate. Others, like the original Cuben Fiber (DCF), proved to be far less resistant to abrasion than initially anticipated. ALUULA’s Graflyte, in the two packs I have tested, appears remarkably robust. However, it also commands the highest price point among its composite peers. Moreover, there is a persistent concern that these advanced fabrics do not readily accept stitching, potentially leading to compromised seam integrity over time. In essence, I find traditional nylon to be a more economical, less crinkly, and sufficiently durable alternative for backpack construction. The tangible benefits of composite fabrics in this application do not, in my opinion, justify the substantial cost premium.

Dyneema shelters might represent the most compelling case for investing in a high-tech fabric. Even then, I remain largely unconvinced. The price, once again, is a significant barrier. It is difficult for me to rationalize spending upwards of $600 on a shelter intended for the relatively straightforward demands of backpacking. Furthermore, there is no elegant or convenient method for rolling or folding a Dyneema shelter. The fabric creases with alarming ease, and with prolonged use, it has been observed to actually shrink – a phenomenon readily evident in any well-used Dyneema stuff sack. The durability aspect, too, is debatable. While Dyneema may boast superior strength on paper, the thin iterations utilized in tents and tarps often negate this advantage in practical, long-term use during a thru-hike. For me, silpoly emerges as the undisputed champion in shelter fabrics: it is cost-effective, remarkably lightweight, and crucially, remains tension-free even in varying humidity conditions. This latter quality is a significant advantage, as it minimizes the need for constant re-tensioning of guylines and ensures a taut pitch throughout the night, regardless of weather changes.

Hiking-Specific Apparel: Overpriced and Underwhelming Substitutes

My skepticism towards apparel explicitly marketed as "hiking-specific" has been a consistent theme throughout my career, and years of evaluating the latest offerings from the outdoor industry have done little to alter this perspective. The reality is that a polyester workout shirt purchased from a discount retailer often shares more similarities with a polyester shirt from a premium outdoor brand than the price tags would suggest. The same holds true for shorts, pants, button-down shirts, and sun hoodies. I am not suggesting that there aren’t outdoor-specific garments I appreciate; rather, I find that the vast majority are not worth the substantial price premium. Moreover, I personally derive more satisfaction from sporting unique thrift store finds on the trail than from adhering to the uniform aesthetic of a Patagonia catalog model. The functional differences between a generic performance t-shirt and a specialized hiking shirt are often negligible, while the cost differential can be significant. This allows consumers to allocate their resources towards more critical gear investments. The focus on branded hiking apparel often overlooks the fact that many everyday athletic wear items possess the same moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and UV-protective properties necessary for comfortable hiking. The marketing surrounding these specialized garments often creates an artificial demand, implying a level of performance that is not consistently delivered in practice. My preference is for versatile, comfortable, and affordable clothing that performs well across a range of activities, rather than investing in garments that are narrowly defined by their intended use and carry an inflated price tag. The ability to mix and match pieces from various sources, including second-hand stores, allows for a more personalized and cost-effective approach to building a functional outdoor wardrobe. This strategy not only saves money but also encourages a more creative and sustainable approach to outdoor gear acquisition.