AMC Outdoors, July/August 2007

Join the fastpacking movement.

It isn't rocket science If you carry less weight, you can hike farther and faster with less effort. Shoulder and leg muscles last longer. Knees crunch less. Aches and pains diminish. As a result, your overall enjoyment increases.

Light isn’t just right anymore. Now it’s big business. In the past few years, most major gear manufacturers have jumped onboard the ultralight bandwagon, offering an array of lightweight equipment that makes it easier than ever to join the fastpacking movement. Ultralight gear can be expensive—you pay more to get less, at least in terms of weight—but investing in a few key items can quickly shave more than 10 pounds off your packweight.

LOOK OVER YOUR SHOULDER The average weight of a traditional overnight backpack (3,500–5,000 cubic inches) hovers around six pounds—and that’s before you put anything in it. Today’s fastpacking benchmark: three pounds. To reduce heft, pack manufacturers are incorporating lightweight fabrics in smaller packs (2,500–3,500 cubic inches) designed to accommodate equally small and lightweight gear. (You may need to upgrade other equipment first, especially if you have a bulky sleeping bag or tent to deal with.) Additional weight savings come from a thinner waist belt and less substantial frame; most lightweight packs are designed to handle no more than 35 pounds.
Average weight savings: 3 pounds. Cost: $150-$200.

PITCH THE TENT Six pounds used to be a decent weight for a two-person backpacking tent. Not anymore. These days a wide array of two-person models can be had for four pounds or less. Much of the difference comes from the increasing use of siliconized nylon, a lighter, thinner layer of fabric impregnated with silicon for increased strength and durability. More sophisticated pole systems have also helped shave ounces. The typical trade-off is less interior space due to shorter and narrower designs, a potential problem if you’re over six feet tall or not on good terms with your tentmate. Some fastpackers further reduce weight by using a single-wall floorless tent (2-3 pounds) or lightweight tarp (1 pound), though decreased resistance to bugs and rain is a drawback. Solo hikers can also get by with a simple bivy sack (1-2 pounds). And think about ditching the tent entirely if the weather is nice or backcountry shelters are available.
Average weight savings: 2-6 pounds. Cost: $200-$300.

SLEEP LIGHTLY A typical synthetic-fill sleeping bag rated to 20 degrees Fahrenheit weighs between two and a half and three pounds (slightly less for a down bag). A cushy inflatable sleeping pad can tip the scales at two pounds or more. For fastpacking, the combined weight of the two shouldn’t exceed three pounds. First consider using a sleeping bag rated to a higher temperature, which is adequate for most summer hiking in the Northeast. Next think about investing in an ultralight down bag, which can compress to the size of a volleyball and weigh less than 24 ounces. Finally, opt for a thinner, three-quarter length inflatable pad or an inexpensive closed-cell foam pad to get mat weight below one pound.
Average weight savings: 2 pounds. Cost: $200-$300.

SHELL OUT Raingear can be a hidden source of significant weight, with some heavy-duty Gore-Tex shells tipping the scales at two pounds or more. Look instead for lightweight shells that come in under 16 ounces. Also consider how much protection you’ll need based on the expected weather conditions. A basic water-resistant windbreaker and pants are often adequate; several ultralight styles weigh as little as three ounces.
Average weight savings: 1 pound. Cost: $50-$150.

- Matt Heid is Senior Editor of AMC Outdoors