Ultralight is no passing fad, it’s a way of life. A slimmed down life that allows you to move quickly, suffer less pain, and truly connect to the natural world without the distraction of all those “things.” You are one with the wilderness, and have a consistent obsession with gear, and the reduction of that gear.
You saw off the end of your spare toothbrush. You dream about objects that nest together. You can calculate ounces to pounds to grams faster than a calculator, and you have at least one spreadsheet that references the function, purpose, and weight (obviously) of your gear. Or, maybe you don’t have all this stuff in your head; you simply know that less weight on the trail means you can reach the tallest peak, the deepest lake, and get into the true heart of the wild.
Our Recommended Gear and Outdoor Guides for the Ultralight Backpacker take into account that while you may or may not be a gearhead, you know how to cut the obese chaff from the titanium wheat. So do we. While this inherently caters to long distance thru-hikers, the ultralight movement is not exclusionary. Beginners can be ultralight; old-schoolers can convert. There is no club and the only hazing is when, inevitably, someone asks about your tiny pack on the trail.
Contrary to common belief, ultralight doesn’t have to cost your firstborn. It can be enjoyed by anyone with basic wilderness skills. Our approach is a bit like a missionary: Convert those who are curious to the ultralight ways, thereby lightening the collective load.
Explore Recommended Gear and Outdoor Guides for Ultralight Backpacker below!
Ultralight Backpacker Gear Reviews
Gear Test: REI Co-op Women’s Sahara Convertible Pants
We’re pushing limits with the REI Co-op Women’s Sahara Convertible Pants, putting these versatile trail essentials through their paces.
Gear Test: Mammut Eigerjoch Light IN Hooded Jacket
We’ve taken the Mammut Eigerjoch Light IN Hooded Jacket through some serious challenges—here’s how this lightweight jacket held up.
Gear Test: REI Co-op Merino Wool Hiking Quarter Socks
We’re out in the wilderness with the REI Co-op Merino Wool Hiking Quarter Socks, putting these lightweight hiking socks to the test.
Gear Test: Paka Women’s Alpaca Bralette and Underwear
Exploring the great outdoors, we’re testing the Paka Women’s Alpaca Bralette and Underwear to see how this active underwear performs.
Gear Test: Ruff Bar Ruff Food
Man’s best friend deserves the best fuel! Putting Ruff Bar Ruff Food, a freeze-dried raw food, to the test on our wilderness adventure.
Gear Test: Ibex Women’s 24 Hour Short Sleeve Low Crew
We put the Ibex Women’s 24 Hour Short Sleeve Low Crewto the test on a recent camping trip, and it didn’t disappoint.
Gear Test: Stio Women’s CFS Hooded Anorak
Deep in the forest, we put the Stio Women’s CFS Hooded Anorak to the ultimate test, demonstrating its exceptional performance.
Gear Test: Nebu B-52 Pants
We’re been field-testing the Nebu B-52 Pants on rugged trails to determine if they live up to their promise.
Gear Test: Rumpl NanoLoft Flame Puffy Blanket
We’re getting cozy by the campfire with the Rumpl NanoLoft Flame Puffy Blanket, putting this camp blanket to the test.
Gear Test: Helinox Chair Zero
On our latest outdoor adventure, we’ve taken a closer look at the Helinox Chair Zero, putting this lightweight backpacking chair to the test.
Ultralight Backpacker Outdoor Guides
The 10 Best Backpacking Chairs of 2024
The best backpacking chairs will make camp way more comfortable. Lean back, get comfy, and prepare to find the right backpacking chair for you!
The Best Hiking Boots of 2024
We highlight the best hiking boots after researching and testing. Find the perfect lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight hiking boot for you!
The Best Hiking Sandals of 2024
We highlight the best hiking sandals of 2024 after researching and testing. Open toe, closed toe, or finger-style? Find the perfect hiking sandal for you!
The Best Hiking Shorts of 2024
Hiking shorts are the underrated all-stars of gear. The best hiking shorts kick sweat and chafe to the curb, and keep you trekking mile after mile.
The Best 9 Rain Ponchos of 2024
Rain ponchos are the preferred rain protection of many outdoorsy folks. Why? Cause they’re versatile. Here are the best Rain Ponchos of 2024.
The Best Sleeping Pads for Backpacking of 2023
Get a comfy night’s rest with the best sleeping pads for backpacking. We list 10 of our favorite models, and give tons of sleeping pad advice on finding the right sleep for you.
The Best Down Jackets of 2024
The best down jackets will keep you cozy in the wilderness, on the couch, or at the bar. We have tested many, and list the best down jackets for you, here.
The Best Fleece Jackets of 2024
The best fleece jackets are cozy, breathable, versatile, full of zippers and have unique features. We list the best here, and what makes them shine.
Backpackers Guide to Fleece Jackets in 2024
This Guide to Fleece Jackets answers mysterious questions: What is fleece fabric? Is fleece warm? Is fleece breathable? And what’s recycled fleece? Read now.
The 10 Best Puffy Jackets on Amazon
Explore the best puffy jackets on Amazon for unbeatable warmth and style on your outdoor adventures this fall and winter.