Hiking Boots/Shoes Recommendations?

Hiking boot recommendations?

Any recommendations for women's hiking shoes?

[Request] Hiking/outdoorsy style shoes that can handle lots of walking on concrete

Cold and wet weather hiking boots recommendations?

I am in need of a new pair of trail/hiking boots.

Hiking Boots for heavy use during the summer

Good pair of hiking shoes?

[Request] waterproof hiking shoes

[request] - Good quality walking shoes.

Hello Redditors. I'm in search of a classy yet extremely durable pair of hiking boots to take backpacking around the world for 12+ months with.

Hiking boots recommendations

Men's three season "urban hiker" (like Merrell MOAB but longer lasting)

BIFL Hiking boots for women

Hiking boots with good traction and can stand up to abuse.

Looking for a good pair of shoes for my weird feet

Request - Hiking Sandals

Request: Hiking Boots

Comfortable and cushiony shoes for walking on pavement 10KM/couple hours a day (UK)

Hiking sandals that last?

[Request] Powerful dishwasher with sanitize function?

I want the best god damned dishwasher money can buy.

Looking for the best, easiest to operate, cheapest dishwasher - Recommendation?

[Request] Best countertop dishwasher for reasonable price?

Can anyone recommend a good dishwasher?

Countertop/Portable Dishwasher

[Request] Dishwasher &lt;$1k Australian with QOL features and low water use

Dishwasher for Second Home

My friend bought a house with this KichenAid dishwasher from 1974. He says it works better than any of the other ones he has owned. He just has to convince his wife not to replace it.

What's a good Panel ready dishwasher under $1k?

Best socket set on the market $100-$150

[Request] Socket wrenches

I need a recommendation for a tool set that should last a lifetime. [Request]

Looking for a Mechanics tool set.

23 years later; GM Goodwrench socket set.

A Starter/Lifetime Tool set

Basic screwdriver set needed

Mechanic Tools that are BIFL

Trying to fill a tool roll for my truck and would like input on BFL tools like wrenches, pliers, socket sets, etc.

BIFL: Mastercraft ratchet set with lifetime warranty. Got it at 14, im 31. Went thru more abuse than you think!

Looking to upgrade my home hand tools

Was told to post this here. Husky 270pc toolset from Home Depot for $99, normally $199. Lifetime warranty too

[Request] Ratchet/Wrench/Etc tool set for home/bicycle/general use

Thoughts on a Honda Accord V6 2007?

2010 Honda Accord worth the buy?

Thoughts on a 2008 Honda accord v6 coupe EX-L?

2014 honda accord ??

After an initial round of research it seems like Honda Accord Hybrid is the right answer, but I want to pressure test that with you guys

2014 Accord V6 Touring (any thoughts?)

Which car ?

me again. 2010 2dr honda accord, 122k miles for $5,800. just want a reliable first car, thoughts?

Want to buy an Accord, any suggestions?

2020/2021 Honda Accord LX - Tell Me About Your Likes/Dislikes

Compact - Midsize suv

best small/midsize suv?

Looking for a used (06-14) reliable compact/mid-size SUV

compact/mid size suv

Midsize SUV

Recommendations for midsized SUVs to look at

Compact to Mid-Size SUV

Small to mid-size suv suggestions?

Midsize vehicle for three kids

Mid-Size SUV

Just tried a Lotus Elise Cup 250, driving impressions !

Dan Neil reviews Lotus Emira: As Good As It Gets

Considering a Lotus Elise - USA

How affordable are Lotus Elises from the 2005-2012 model year?

Lotus Exige Sport Final Edition review: farewell, Exige

I wanna know everything you know about a 2005 Lotus Elise

My Lotus Evora Review

Lotus retail sales up 24% in best performance for a decade

2022 Lotus Emira Looks to Be One of the Brand's Best

PURCHASING A LOTUS — Need Tips + Advice.

Looking for a good rpg/action adventure with a good story and good characters

Deep long rpgs?

Looking for a story-focused RPG

Looking for a complex RPG

Fantasy games with an detailed and immersive world?

[WSIB] I am in search for a open world RPG that will keep me busy for hundreds of hours.

Open world game with huge map, lots of things to do, and great graphics

WSIB Feeling a bit of an rpg lull and want something exciting like old school BioWare with a engaging story that doesn’t take 100 hours to play.

WSIB: long, immersive games with high quality storytelling and writing

looking for an open-world rpg

[WSIB] A turn based strategy game that isn’t 4X

Turn-based strategy game

Turn-based strategy games

[WSIB] Small-scale, medieval, strategy game, featuring pikemen and cavalry

(WSIB) Turn-based ”wargaming” game

[WSIB] Turn Based Strategy games

WSIB if I want a strategy game for dummies

WSIB Strategic Rpg

[WSIB] Good offline strategy/(ish) games?

What are some good "smaller scale to control, but still feel large scale battle" tactical / strategy games?

Bullet Hell-Type Games: Atomicrops vs. I, Dracula: Genesis vs. Others?

WSIB if i want a completely story driven indie game but have already played undertale and oneshot (preferably similar to those 2)

Post apocalyptic enthusiast, Underrail or Atom RPG?

[SIB] Undermine or Atomicrops

WSIB if I like "Run into things, need to grow in power/special items to move further so I come back after unlocking said element" type of games.

Blsoodborne or Resident evil 2 ?

What should I buy? Animal Crossing: New Horizons or Doom: Eternal

[WSIB] Fast-paced top-down roguelikes?

[SIB] I Hate Running Backwards or Planetary Dustoff? Or something else?

SIB Nuclear Throne?

What can you recommend for minimizing pores?

I know you can’t get rid of pores but I’m wondering is there anyway to make them smaller? I use La Roche Posay products. They keep my acne mostly at bay but I feel like my pores are just so large. Part of it is genetic, but just wondering if there’s anything else I can do at home to help. Thanks!

OPEN PORES- WHAT TO DO? IS THERE ANY PRODUCT I CAN USE?

What skincare products have you used that helped with large pores?

What is the best thing to use to tighten pores on your face?

Can anyone tell me why my pores are so huge and what I can do to minimize them?

How to reduce pores.

Hey guys, how do I make my pores not look like this? Info in comments (deleted and reposted for an error in the title)

Pores reduction tips?

Advice for shrinking pores on and around nose?

[sun care] sunscreen that doesn’t irritate rosacea and perioral dermatitis

[Sun Care] Looking for sunscreen that doesn't irritate Rosacea

Sunscreen recommendations for rosacea

Looking for a sunscreen for my acne prone skin.

[Sun Care] looking for a sunscreen that works well for people with Eczema.

Desperate for a good sunscreen

Looking for a Daily Suncreen

I’ve tried them all and I still can’t find my holy grail for my dry rosacea skin. Any other recommendations?

Sunscreen, eczema and makeup, Help [Sun care]

[Sun Care] Help with not being able to use Sunscreen

How can i stop a really greasy face?

How to best defeat oily skin?

Is there any long-lasting solution for oily face?

Oily Face -&gt; Wash Face -&gt; More Oily

Extremely oily skin

Y’all know some sort of cream or product I can buy to make my face less greasy looking?

super oily face help needed

Oily Skin— please help!

Really oily skin

How to have less oily skin?

Adrian Krebs

Johannes Engler

Tavis Lochhead

amazon.com

TheUrbanPrepper

LearningToBePrepared

r/ManyBaggers

 and I can also open this up a little and show you this compartment can be accessed from this side of the bag or this side of the bag in the exact same manner. and what I have in there is just one of the Ban Quest Universal holsters that attaches via Velcro in there. Okay so if you want to use it for concealed carry, you have that option. Now let's first start in this top pocket

 Okay so on the outside you also notice that there is new zipper poles and I'll move that up to where you can see that. Okay, those are one of the updates to this bag as well. They used to use these little ones like what you see on this organizer I believe that's called a fisherman's hook and it was paracord but if it ever came undone, it was really challenging to use. So they have updated the whole bag with these inside and out so that it's a lot easier system to use

 Now to take one off you just simply slide it off like this. Now the strap is still secured on the bag but this is makes it very secure and holds it in place. The remainder of the strap is held underneath here by velcro. It's a very very strong velcro and to get to that what you would do is you would undo this snap first like this, then you would pull the rope side and inside

 The reason I just want to take it off for the remainder is I Wanted to first show that if you are a huge water bottle fan which many of my friends are, this is available. It's $20 normal off the Van Quest website and that way if you are looking for a water bottle holder you have that option to put one on here. Okay now one of the biggest things when I worked at Van Quest and just people that I've talked to, they always want to know if the original katara, which was a slingback could be made into a backpack by purchasing a second strap. The answer to that question is kind of twofold and the overall answer is no because first, Van Quests did not make a secondary strap for the bag and second, even if someone had a secondary strap, the bag wasn't designed to take a second strap and it would be very uncomfortable to wear the bag and it just wasn't designed on the strap system to hold a second one

Vanquest Katara 16 Review Pt. 1 by LearningToBePrepared

 I've been using the Bankwest Katara 16 backpack for the past several months now and brought it on multiple day hikes when out and about with the family. also for EDC commuting when carrying a laptop and then even on multiple flights for business travel. It works great as a carry-on bag for flights and it easily fits under the front seat for storage. It's a great EDC bag due to its small size and the multiple compartments and zippered pockets that it has

 The next con that I have listed is that there is no dedicated water bottle holder. You could always get the Van Quest Hydra water bottle holder which is really clever, but I find that it's a little bit too tight of a fit on the sides of this particular backpack and I think it takes away from the sexy Mali Look the next con is that because this bag is so small, that laptop sleeve only supports around a 12 to 13 inch laptop maximum. So if you have a 15 inch laptop, you're not going to be able to store in that sleeve and you're gonna have to store it in the main compartment of this particular backpack without a strap. And that's a little risky

 Due to that size, you can't carry more items that are needed for EDC purposes which helps keep the bag light. Let's go over the size and weight. so the storage pack capacity of the Katara 16 is 16 liters so it's not a large backpack. It weighs in at around 2

[music] [music] Today elected your product review of the Van Quest Katara 16 backpack. This backpack came out earlier this year and I've been testing it now for the past five to six months in multiple use cases. So for multiple GAE hikes and then also for EDC purposes and I'm finally ready now to do the review of it. So there's a lot of cool features with this backpack

Vanquest KATARA 16 Backpack Review

shopify

OutdoorGearLab

On the other end of the spectrum lies the ZPacks Arc Blast 55. It is a unique and highly specific pack in that it weighs almost nothing yet still can carry over 20 pounds. With a measured weight of 21.3 ounces, it's a great deal lighter than most in our fleet. Made from Dyneema Composite Fabric &#40;DFC&#41;, it's incredibly durable, though the fabric is a bit stiff and crunchy. Beware of sharp metal edges &#40;bear canisters or climbing gear&#41;, since they can easily be worn through the fabric. A relatively recent update includes changes to the straps, pockets, and waist belt. The pack has also seen a carrying capacity increase from 52 to 55 liters. 
The Arc Blast is a slimmed-down ultralight machine with no bells or whistles. The frame is super light and a bit complicated; we do not recommend removing it unless you want to spend a great deal of time reassembling the pack. A bear canister only fits into this slender pack vertically, making it a little less-than-efficient to pack. We recommend this pack to any experienced ultralighter looking to strip a few ounces off their Big Four base weight.  

On the other end of the spectrum lies the ZPacks Arc Blast 55. It is a unique and highly specific pack in that it weighs almost nothing yet still can carry over 20 pounds. With a measured weight of 21.3 ounces, it's a great deal lighter than most in our fleet. Made from Dyneema Composite Fabric &#40;DFC&#41;, it's incredibly durable, though the fabric is a bit stiff and crunchy. Beware of sharp metal edges &#40;bear canisters or climbing gear&#41;, since they can easily be worn through the fabric. A relatively recent update includes changes to the straps, pockets, and waist belt. The pack has also seen a carrying capacity increase from 52 to 55 liters. 
The Arc Blast is a slimmed-down ultralight machine with no bells or whistles. The frame is super light and a bit complicated; we do not recommend removing it unless you want to spend a great deal of time reassembling the pack. A bear canister only fits into this slender pack vertically, making it less efficient to pack. We recommend this pack to any experienced ultralighter looking to strip a few ounces off their Big Four base weight.  
Read more: ZPacks Arc Blast 55 review

https:

sectionhiker.com

outdoorgearlab.com

r/CampingandHiking

r/Ultralight

r/CampingGear

r/hammockcamping

* Large - [Can fit a Bearicade Expedition bear canister]([URL REMOVED] Can handle excess weight - It is comfortable even if you have to load up a lot of water or have 11 days of food in a bear canister.

 I like that this pack can handle excess weight such as when you have excess food or water in the pack. If I got another pack I would definitely choose one that offers a similar feature.

**Overview**: This is long term review of the Zpacks Arc Blast. I got this pack as a Christmas gift in 2018. I've used it for hundreds of miles and at least a dozen trips. I was not involved in the customer service or ordering of the pack other than I asked for it for Christmas and was under the tree in time for Christmas

The pack has proven itself to be durable under bad bushwhacking conditions. I have scraped it pretty badly on trees and brush and only the outer polyester layer of fabric has [punctured or torn]([URL REMOVED] The inner layer of DCF is unscathed. Under general scratchy scraping through brush there is no damage whatsoever.

- ZPacks Arc Blast - Sort of unbeatable for the frame comfort at the weight. Genuinely waterproof. Pricey. I don't own one, but I've tried it on for half a day to feel it out

 In case you want to hear what "waterproof" really means; I'll tell you, it's this, not something that requires a rainfly - I've taken this pack through its paces on really demanding long trips, including one that required ~50 river crossings in about 3 days and I've left it outside my bivy overnight in drenching rainstorms. Never had wet gear. I think it holds weight well and undersells the interior space because you can extend the roll-top.

 Pricey. I don't own one, but I've tried it on for half a day to feel it out. Reminds me a bit of the airflow on my Exos frame. The DCF is thin, but if you're not putting serious thru-hiking miles on it, you probably won't have durability issues

Hey fellow backpackers,

I'm looking to replace my Teton 3400 pack with something more lightweight and/or comfortable. Right now I'm between the Mariposa 60 Backpack, 40-60L Sierra Designs Flux Capacitor, or Osprey Atmos 50 or 60 but I'm open for other considerations. Max capacity around 60L and max weight of 5 pounds (ideally around 3 pound mark). I'm looking for something with decent exterior pockets including hip pockets and easy access pockets/mounts for bear spray. I've been trying to minimize gear weight to make the weight of my camera gear more manageable but if a pack can make a load more comfortable then that would be okay too. This pack would be for multi-day trips through significant elevation changes. Water resistance out of the box would be favorable too. I'm also slightly below the average male height in the US for size considerations. If you have any experience with these packs or have another you'd recommend that would be great.

Thanks!

<div class="md">Hey fellow backpackers,

I&#39;m looking to replace my Teton 3400 pack with something more lightweight and/or comfortable. Right now I&#39;m between the Mariposa 60 Backpack, 40-60L Sierra Designs Flux Capacitor, or Osprey Atmos 50 or 60 but I&#39;m open for other considerations. Max capacity around 60L and max weight of 5 pounds (ideally around 3 pound mark). I&#39;m looking for something with decent exterior pockets including hip pockets and easy access pockets/mounts for bear spray. I&#39;ve been trying to minimize gear weight to make the weight of my camera gear more manageable but if a pack can make a load more comfortable then that would be okay too. This pack would be for multi-day trips through significant elevation changes. Water resistance out of the box would be favorable too. I&#39;m also slightly below the average male height in the US for size considerations. If you have any experience with these packs or have another you&#39;d recommend that would be great.

Thanks!
</div>

Looking to Upgrade Pack

On paper, this pack still won out. Weight, load carry capacity, variable torso length and hipbelt size, cuben fiber qualities(weight, waterproof, durability), ventilated back panel are all key features that in conjunction with eachother make this pack stand out against the rest. 

The ventilated mesh back panel is a must for me. I'm in Southern California so prevention of lava back is a big deal. If you're in a colder climate, then I can see how this isn't important. If I am hiking in winter then I'm taking my Xenith 75 where I have to carry more weight and back sweat isn't an issue (I'd never take this in warm weather)

 I've noticed that the pack is more stable downhill from this change. The main thing is being able to access items while hiking. Things move down so things I used to put in the hood I put in the side pockets, more sensitive items I put in the hipbelts. 

Excellent Pack

 So I recently got out my old Relay and repaired some holes and added KS50-like carbon poles (that don't make an arc) on the pack and a proper large pocket for the back and some other features. It's even better now. It's getting old but it's got new life.

I backpack a bunch. One AT thru hike and a bunch of other stuff. Here are the backpacks I have used so far.

1. Osprey Talon 44. Still don't understand why this is not a more used ultralight pack. It was my pack for 2190 miles. It was trashed, I am not sentimental, I threw it away after my thru hike.
2. On the last 170 miles of the Long Trail I used the Granite Gear Vapor Trail 60 limited edition. Bought it because it was cheap. It worked well but wanted to get lighter. I let a friend borrow it a few months ago don't know if I will get it back or use again.
3. Gossamer Gear G4-20. Used it 14+ nights so far replaced the back pad with Various CCF pads. Worked well but not 5+ days or during the winter because of lack of frame. I still own this and will use again for everything 3 season less than 3 or 4 days.
4. Just ordered a HMG 3400 Southwest. I am thinking great winter and 5+ day pack and good for places you need a bear can.

What is your backpack history?

<div class="md">I backpack a bunch. One AT thru hike and a bunch of other stuff. Here are the backpacks I have used so far.

<ol>
<li>Osprey Talon 44. Still don&#39;t understand why this is not a more used ultralight pack. It was my pack for 2190 miles. It was trashed, I am not sentimental, I threw it away after my thru hike.</li>
<li>On the last 170 miles of the Long Trail I used the Granite Gear Vapor Trail 60 limited edition. Bought it because it was cheap. It worked well but wanted to get lighter. I let a friend borrow it a few months ago don&#39;t know if I will get it back or use again.</li>
<li>Gossamer Gear G4-20. Used it 14+ nights so far replaced the back pad with Various CCF pads. Worked well but not 5+ days or during the winter because of lack of frame. I still own this and will use again for everything 3 season less than 3 or 4 days.</li>
<li>Just ordered a HMG 3400 Southwest. I am thinking great winter and 5+ day pack and good for places you need a bear can.</li>
</ol>

What is your backpack history?
</div>

What is the best backpack? My history.

I'll voice this opinion, too:  Since much of the weight of a Bearikade is in the flat end pieces and not the carbon fiber cylinder, one might as well get a larger size to use as a camp stool.

<div class="md">While I have a pretty minimalist, lightweight kit, I am also committed to carrying a bear canister for most of my trips these days. I carry a Bearikade Weekender and it easily fits in my Gossamer Gear pack, but I have an opportunity to get a new pack and I wondered what other lightweight packs people like for carrying a can. I am open to something with a solid system for strapping the can to the outside of the pack as well.

Edit to answer questions in comments.

<ul>
<li>What is your approximate base weight? 3 season base weight of 11-12lbs including my current pack and the Bearikade</li>
<li>How many days do your normally go out for? usually try for 5 days between resupplies</li>
<li>Which (specific) GG bag are you coming from? Mariposa 60L, even with the Bearikade there is tons of excess space in 3 seasons, and still enough with a winter load</li>
<li>Do you prefer packs with an internal frame or shooting for frameless? I prefer a frame as I have some physical issues that are better with some weight transfer, plus I&#39;m old :-)</li>
<li>Any budget constraints? Or are you open to a $300-$400 level pack? Budget is not a consideration</li>
<li>Do you prefer J-Straps, S-Straps or it doesn&#39;t matter? Doesn&#39;t particularly matter. I am female, but I have fairly broad shoulders and am not so busty as to have issues with straps in that sense.</li>
</ul>
</div>

Best lightweight backpack for carrying a bear canister

 I bought a used large Mariposa but find that when it's heavily loaded it hits my ass, no matter how I adjust it. I love those packs but haven't quite figured out the fit and I can't really return the used gear.

I love Gossamer Gear packs but I've run into an issue with the length. My torso length puts me in a large and I buy most of my gear used. I bought a used large Mariposa but find that when it's heavily loaded it hits my ass, no matter how I adjust it. I love those packs but haven't quite figured out the fit and I can't really return the used gear

The Exos really does carry the best for me but the extra weight is only worth it if the elevation gain on the trip is less than 2000'. The Arc Blast carries almost as well as the Exos and it is substantially lighter. So if the elevation gain is substantial, I use the Arc Blast. 

I come from a Scouting backpacking background where as an adult I have to carry way too much gear. I’m doing way more backpacking with my friends and really enjoying cutting weight. I’m at the point where my backpack is the next most logical place to drop significant lbs as it currently makes up about 25% of my base weight.  I’m looking for a pack in the 55 liter (+/-) range and around 2lbs (+/-). Most of my trips are long weekends. I love my Mystery Ranch Glacier but it is way too big and heavy for short trips where I’m not loaded down with backup gear for the kids. Thanks for any recommendations.

<div class="md">I come from a Scouting backpacking background where as an adult I have to carry way too much gear. I’m doing way more backpacking with my friends and really enjoying cutting weight. I’m at the point where my backpack is the next most logical place to drop significant lbs as it currently makes up about 25% of my base weight. I’m looking for a pack in the 55 liter (+/-) range and around 2lbs (+/-). Most of my trips are long weekends. I love my Mystery Ranch Glacier but it is way too big and heavy for short trips where I’m not loaded down with backup gear for the kids. Thanks for any recommendations.
</div>

Looking for Pack recommendations

  What do you stuff down the sides?  Socks?  Small items?  I have to put my cookset on top.  Or do you have any special packing order when using your Bearikade?  Do you think the edges of  your Expedition are too sharp? Have the aluminum edges cut into the inner side of the pack fabric?   I note the plastic BV500 is curvier, so no edges.  What has been your experience(s)?  Thanks!

**Overview**: This is long term review of the Zpacks Arc Blast. I got this pack as a Christmas gift in 2018. I've used it for hundreds of miles and at least a dozen trips. I was not involved in the customer service or ordering of the pack other than I asked for it for Christmas and was under the tree in time for Christmas. It's the best pack I've ever had.

I have a 16" torso and have a size small. I have heard that newer versions of this pack do not come in a small size that will fit a 16" torso and that if you need a pack that small the company recommends the Arc Scout. I do not know anything about the Arc Scout or any other packs they sell.

The pack has a frame made of two carbon fiber stays on the outer sides of the pack and a series of straps that you pull to put tension on the stays to make them form an arc shape behind your back. Your back then rests against a tight mesh trampoline with nothing but air behind it. I have found that I do not like the arc very much. The trampoline isn't quite rigid enough to provide my back with support to avoid pain in my back. I have the option of releasing the tension to eliminate the arc, but instead I've found I can just use the space as [storage for my thinlight pad](https://imgur.com/FTQKrlx). This provides support for my back and keeps my pad from getting torn up by brush while keeping it easily accessible for rest breaks. I do like the stays, though. I like that this pack can handle excess weight such as when you have excess food or water in the pack. If I got another pack I would definitely choose one that offers a similar feature.

The pack has proven itself to be durable under bad bushwhacking conditions. I have scraped it pretty badly on trees and brush and only the outer polyester layer of fabric has [punctured or torn](https://imgur.com/auYCTDD). The inner layer of DCF is unscathed. Under general scratchy scraping through brush there is no damage whatsoever.

I usually have some kind of pack liner but have never found the inside of the pack to get wet in the rain.

This is a [very large pack](https://imgur.com/wIayfUq), 65 liters, I think. As such, it's a little oversized at times. It's a great pack if you are going to do a long trip without resupply or need to put a lot of water or a large bear canister inside. I've fit a Bearicade Expedition inside.

**Location**: I have used this pack in the Los Padres National Forest and in SEKI and on the Pacific Crest Trail in Southern California.

**Images**: [https://imgur.com/a/MSGgXYp](https://imgur.com/a/MSGgXYp)

**Specifications**: Weight: 29.23oz. This includes the added roll-top side straps, homemade lumbar pad, homemade shoulder pocket and various patches I've sewn on the back. You can find more information on the Zpacks website.

**Pros**:

* Durable - I've abused this pack with bushwhacking and getting lost.
* Large - [Can fit a Bearicade Expedition bear canister](https://imgur.com/3zAgMTv).
* Can handle excess weight - It is comfortable even if you have to load up a lot of water or have 11 days of food in a bear canister.
* Customizable - I have removable top side pockets that I sometimes use, I've added the rolltop closure side straps to make the top roll down more neatly.
* Comfortable - I feel like this pack fits me perfectly.
* Seems waterproof, or waterproof enough.

**Cons**: 

* The outer layer of polyester is not as durable as the inner layer of DCF.
* Sometimes it is too large.
* It has faded a little from the sun.
* It is too black. I should have gotten a color other than black.
* Not very lightweight. I consider this a workhorse of a pack.

**Limitations**: I was not the person who placed the order for the pack because it was a gift. I think I've owned it long enough and abused it well enough to have a good sense of the long term durability. I have no doubt that it would last a whole thru-hike of the PCT. It would probably look like it went for a whole thru-hike, though.

**Disclaimer**: I have no affiliation with the company. I have ordered a lot of things from them, though.

**TLDR**: The Zpacks Arc Blast is big, durable, customizable and comfortable. Good for heavy carries. If you aren't interested in this exact pack, I would definitely recommend any other pack that also has a frame made of poles on the sides of the pack.

<div class="md">Overview: This is long term review of the Zpacks Arc Blast. I got this pack as a Christmas gift in 2018. I&#39;ve used it for hundreds of miles and at least a dozen trips. I was not involved in the customer service or ordering of the pack other than I asked for it for Christmas and was under the tree in time for Christmas. It&#39;s the best pack I&#39;ve ever had.

I have a 16&quot; torso and have a size small. I have heard that newer versions of this pack do not come in a small size that will fit a 16&quot; torso and that if you need a pack that small the company recommends the Arc Scout. I do not know anything about the Arc Scout or any other packs they sell.

The pack has a frame made of two carbon fiber stays on the outer sides of the pack and a series of straps that you pull to put tension on the stays to make them form an arc shape behind your back. Your back then rests against a tight mesh trampoline with nothing but air behind it. I have found that I do not like the arc very much. The trampoline isn&#39;t quite rigid enough to provide my back with support to avoid pain in my back. I have the option of releasing the tension to eliminate the arc, but instead I&#39;ve found I can just use the space as <a href="https://imgur.com/FTQKrlx">storage for my thinlight pad</a>. This provides support for my back and keeps my pad from getting torn up by brush while keeping it easily accessible for rest breaks. I do like the stays, though. I like that this pack can handle excess weight such as when you have excess food or water in the pack. If I got another pack I would definitely choose one that offers a similar feature.

The pack has proven itself to be durable under bad bushwhacking conditions. I have scraped it pretty badly on trees and brush and only the outer polyester layer of fabric has <a href="https://imgur.com/auYCTDD">punctured or torn</a>. The inner layer of DCF is unscathed. Under general scratchy scraping through brush there is no damage whatsoever.

I usually have some kind of pack liner but have never found the inside of the pack to get wet in the rain.

This is a <a href="https://imgur.com/wIayfUq">very large pack</a>, 55 liters, I think. As such, it&#39;s a little oversized at times. It&#39;s a great pack if you are going to do a long trip without resupply or need to put a lot of water or a large bear canister inside. I&#39;ve fit a Bearicade Expedition inside.

Location: I have used this pack in the Los Padres National Forest and in SEKI and on the Pacific Crest Trail in Southern California.

Images: <a href="https://imgur.com/a/MSGgXYp">https://imgur.com/a/MSGgXYp</a>

Specifications: Weight: 29.23oz. This includes the added roll-top side straps, homemade lumbar pad, homemade shoulder pocket and various patches I&#39;ve sewn on the back. You can find more information on the Zpacks website.

Pros:

<ul>
<li>Durable - I&#39;ve abused this pack with bushwhacking and getting lost.</li>
<li>Large - <a href="https://imgur.com/3zAgMTv">Can fit a Bearicade Expedition bear canister</a>.</li>
<li>Can handle excess weight - It is comfortable even if you have to load up a lot of water or have 11 days of food in a bear canister.</li>
<li>Customizable - I have removable top side pockets that I sometimes use, I&#39;ve added the rolltop closure side straps to make the top roll down more neatly.</li>
<li>Comfortable - I feel like this pack fits me perfectly.</li>
<li>Seems waterproof, or waterproof enough.</li>
</ul>

Cons:

<ul>
<li>The outer layer of polyester is not as durable as the inner layer of DCF.</li>
<li>Sometimes it is too large.</li>
<li>It has faded a little from the sun.</li>
<li>It is too black. I should have gotten a color other than black.</li>
<li>Not very lightweight. I consider this a workhorse of a pack.</li>
</ul>

Limitations: I was not the person who placed the order for the pack because it was a gift. I think I&#39;ve owned it long enough and abused it well enough to have a good sense of the long term durability. I have no doubt that it would last a whole thru-hike of the PCT. It would probably look like it went for a whole thru-hike, though.

Disclaimer: I have no affiliation with the company. I have ordered a lot of things from them, though.

TLDR: The Zpacks Arc Blast is big, durable, customizable and comfortable. Good for heavy carries. If you aren&#39;t interested in this exact pack, I would definitely recommend any other pack that also has a frame made of poles on the sides of the pack.

Edit: I changed it from 65L to 55L. I wasn&#39;t sure. It still seems big.
</div>

Long term review: Zpacks Arc Blast

.). I know ZPacks sells one, but I don't want to spend 70 dollars (+shipping and tax to Europe) on something this small and simple.

So I'm looking for a fanny pack that would be compatible with my backpack (with the hip belt...)

 I know ZPacks sells one, but I don't want to spend 70 dollars (+shipping and tax to Europe) on something this small and simple.

Are you having trouble deciding between X vs Y? Is analysis paralysis getting in the way of you planning trips?  Then this is the thread for you.

To ensure that you receive the best advice from all the helpful and knowledgeable people on this sub, please use the template below, where applicable, in the body of your post.

**Template stickied below for ease of use**

Remember that this sub is for **ultralight** gear and techniques. Please make sure your questions are **ultralight** focused. This is not the place to ask about heavy outdoor gear.

Before posting, please have a look at the [Wiki](https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/wiki/index), [FAQ](https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/wiki/faqs), and use the [search](https://redditsearch.io/?term=&amp;dataviz=false&amp;aggs=false&amp;subreddits=ultralight&amp;searchtype=posts,comments&amp;search=true&amp;start=1610838887&amp;end=1613430887&amp;size=100) to see if your question has already been answered.

<div class="md">Are you having trouble deciding between X vs Y? Is analysis paralysis getting in the way of you planning trips? Then this is the thread for you.

To ensure that you receive the best advice from all the helpful and knowledgeable people on this sub, please use the template below, where applicable, in the body of your post.

Template stickied below for ease of use

Remember that this sub is for ultralight gear and techniques. Please make sure your questions are ultralight focused. This is not the place to ask about heavy outdoor gear.

Before posting, please have a look at the <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/wiki/index">Wiki</a>, <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/wiki/faqs">FAQ</a>, and use the <a href="https://redditsearch.io/?term=&amp;dataviz=false&amp;aggs=false&amp;subreddits=ultralight&amp;searchtype=posts,comments&amp;search=true&amp;start=1610838887&amp;end=1613430887&amp;size=100">search</a> to see if your question has already been answered.
</div>

r/Ultralight - The Purchase Advice Thread - Week of February 07, 2022

Buy “durable” gear that you’re comfortable with, and let experience guide future choices. I’ve hiked for ten years with heavy and durable gear in my personal life and in the army - now i have an Arc blast pack and sleep on an Uberlight. It’s durable if you know what you’re doing, not cutting new trails through briars, and not sleeping on broken glass.

**Hello everyone, I'm wondering about purchasing ANY ultralight gear, because I'm very worried about the quality/durability of them.**

I'm usually very cautious about my stuff, but hiking gear NEEDS to withstand some abuse : rain, rocks, weight, trees/branches etc. If you spend your hike worrying about your stuff breaking apart, it kind of isn't a great experience imho.   


**Example :**

I'm planning a 30 day trip on the GR10 (French Pyrénées) so of course I want my bag to be as light as possible. I'm looking to optimize weight on some core items, like my backpack and sleeping bag. 

Found the [Cumulus X-Lite 300](https://cumulus.equipment/eu_fr/sacs-de-couchage-en-duvet-x-lite-300.html) sleeping bag. It has very nice specs : 2°C (36,6F) comfort for 465g (1.025 lb) and 3.5L. But then it has a very very thin outer layer : only 19g/m2. I've watched some reviews, and the fabric is SO THIN, I cannot imagine how that thing could not tear to the first rock or needle or any other sharp thing it touches.

Same story for UL backpags, such as the Zpack ArcBlast for instance, of which [that guy in that video](https://youtu.be/dZs5P9Z1PlA?t=447) states that it should last only 1 or 2 long distance hikes because of how thin and fragile the fabric is. I mean it looks like a piece of paper.  


**There are several concerns about durability for hiking gear :**  
1 - Ecological : It's manufactured products, using limited resources (like oil) and emitting CO2 and pollutants in the process. I want any product that I buy to either serve me for many years, or stay in a good enough shape that I can sell it to another user and life.   
2 - Practical : If my sleeping bag rips, or, worse, if my backpack shreds after being rubbed against some rocks or after the rain, my hike could be greatly impacted depending on how bad the damage are. 

3 - Money : Well they are expensive products, and they may represent consequent investments

  
**What is your opinion and experience regarding durability of UL gear ? Any brands/products to avoid ?**   


Thanks !

<div class="md">Hello everyone, I&#39;m wondering about purchasing ANY ultralight gear, because I&#39;m very worried about the quality/durability of them.

I&#39;m usually very cautious about my stuff, but hiking gear NEEDS to withstand some abuse : rain, rocks, weight, trees/branches etc. If you spend your hike worrying about your stuff breaking apart, it kind of isn&#39;t a great experience imho. 

Example :

I&#39;m planning a 30 day trip on the GR10 (French Pyrénées) so of course I want my bag to be as light as possible. I&#39;m looking to optimize weight on some core items, like my backpack and sleeping bag. 

Found the <a href="https://cumulus.equipment/eu_fr/sacs-de-couchage-en-duvet-x-lite-300.html">Cumulus X-Lite 300</a> sleeping bag. It has very nice specs : 2°C (36,6F) comfort for 465g (1.025 lb) and 3.5L. But then it has a very very thin outer layer : only 19g/m2. I&#39;ve watched some reviews, and the fabric is SO THIN, I cannot imagine how that thing could not tear to the first rock or needle or any other sharp thing it touches.

Same story for UL backpags, such as the Zpack ArcBlast for instance, of which <a href="https://youtu.be/dZs5P9Z1PlA?t=447">that guy in that video</a> states that it should last only 1 or 2 long distance hikes because of how thin and fragile the fabric is. I mean it looks like a piece of paper. 

There are several concerns about durability for hiking gear : 
1 - Ecological : It&#39;s manufactured products, using limited resources (like oil) and emitting CO2 and pollutants in the process. I want any product that I buy to either serve me for many years, or stay in a good enough shape that I can sell it to another user and life. 
2 - Practical : If my sleeping bag rips, or, worse, if my backpack shreds after being rubbed against some rocks or after the rain, my hike could be greatly impacted depending on how bad the damage are. 

3 - Money : Well they are expensive products, and they may represent consequent investments

What is your opinion and experience regarding durability of UL gear ? Any brands/products to avoid ? 

Thanks !
</div>

katara 16 vanquest vs Zpacks Arc Blast

QUICK QUESTION!

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