Episodes

Dec 15

What gear do you actually need to hike out safely through a winter blizzard at night, in sub-freezing temps and high winds, when stopping isn't an option? In this episode, Ryan breaks down a focused foul-weather kit: core layers, shells, handwear, footwear, lighting, and navigation that preserve function while on the move. To view the shownotes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Dec 9

Ryan walks through a structured, six-question framework for deciding whether to stay put or move when a winter storm deteriorates around you, using real backcountry examples to show how terrain, weather, gear, consequences, people, and trends shape safer choices. To view the show notes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Nov 20

In this Field Notes episode, Ryan breaks down ultralight repair kits using a simple framework: context, consequence, and capability. He compares short-term overnights to long-term expeditions, explains how to right-size your kit, and walks through real-world repair problems with shelters, fabrics, packs, footwear, lighting, and water treatment so you can carry less gear, solve higher-consequence failures, and avoid getting stranded by preventable equipment breakdowns on remote trips and routes. To view the shownotes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Nov 10

In this episode, Ryan introduces the Plan-Focus-Trust framework - a simple but powerful approach to managing hard, uncertain objectives in the wilderness and beyond. Drawing on lessons from our recent BPL community trip in the Colorado Rockies, he shows how successful expeditions aren't conquered through toughness, but through disciplined attention. Plan to remove fear and build readiness. Focus to stay present and move one step at a time. Trust to let small, verified wins accumulate into confidence. Together, these three disciplines transform big, intimidating goals into achievable progress - mile by mile, decision by decision. To view the shownotes for this epsidoe of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Nov 3

In this episode, we introduce the Risk Control Continuum - a practical, evidence-based framework for managing risk in the backcountry. He explores how environmental, psychosocial, and operational hazards trigger physiological, functional, and cognitive drift, leading to cascades of failure. Listeners learn the HEAT and ECG checklists for detecting and reversing control loss, and how structured decision gates and route planning maintain safety, awareness, and performance in adverse environments. To view the shownotes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Oct 20

What is the difference in layering strategy from summertime to the fall-winter transition? In this episode, Ryan Jordan discusses how the environment of the fringe season (colder temperatures and stormier weather) demands different types of layers and a different approach to layering. To view the show notes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Oct 13

In the Field Notes episode, we explore why bushwhacking miles aren't just harder but metabolically different. The Metabolic Energy Mile (MEM) framework breaks this down into three types of work: brush work (muscle strain from pushing through vegetation), impedance work (lost efficiency from constant stops and detours), and hazard work (the stabilizing effort to avoid injury). Each inflates the Metabolic Difficulty Ratio (MDR) in unique ways, helping us better predict energy cost, travel time, and safety off-trail. To view the shownotes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Oct 6

Backcountry sleep is fragile, and when it breaks down, recovery, judgment, and safety are at risk. In this episode, we examine the forces that fragment rest, including altitude, stress, weather, injury, ground comfort, and sleep/shelter gear systems, and how they disrupt the deep and REM sleep required for physical and cognitive recovery. We'll also explore practical, evidence-based strategies to protect your rest so you can stay sharp, resilient, and ready for the trail. To view the show notes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Sep 15

In this episode, Ryan Jordan examines why traditional cathole practices often fail in alpine, desert, and high-use environments. Drawing on scientific research, policy gaps, and evolving Leave No Trace ethics, he explains why pack-out systems are trending towards a new standard for modern backpacking. Listeners will gain practical guidance for field practices, insight into shifting wilderness norms, and new perspectives on the future of backcountry waste management. To view the shownotes this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Sep 1

Today's episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast is sponsored by Vaer Watches. A Vaer watch is an expedition-worthy, made in the USA, reliable, rugged, and beautiful timepiece that earns its place on your wrist and in your gear kit. To view this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Aug 19

In this episode, we discuss how to design scalable, evidence-informed first aid kits for backcountry travel. Grounded in the principles of context, consequence, and capability, he outlines three modular kit configurations - Overnight, Weekend, and Weeklong/Expedition - and explains their medical rationale, typical use cases, and practical contents. Listeners will learn how to match kit design to trip demands, avoid common planning mistakes, and implement a reliable maintenance protocol. To view the show notes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Aug 4

In this episode, Ryan shares his approach to bivy sack camping above treeline using a waterproof-breathable system built for stealth, weather protection, and minimal impact. He explains why tents aren't always practical in alpine terrain, what gear he trusts (including his full summer bivy kit), and the skills that make bivy camping both functional and immersive. If you've ever wanted to sleep under the stars - without giving up shelter - this episode's for you. To view the shownotes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Jul 28

In this Field Notes episode, Ryan Jordan explores what happens when wilderness minimalism reaches its limits. Through real-world examples and the lenses of physiology, psychology, and Stoic philosophy, we examine how stripped-down gear systems perform under stress — and how they fail. We'll look at five high-risk scenarios, lessons from Epictetus and Seneca, and why both lightness and resilience should guide our backcountry decisions. To view the show notes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Jul 7

What does it really cost your body to carry a backpack in the backcountry? In this episode, we explore the science behind the metabolic demands of load carriage - how pack weight, load distribution, terrain, and walking speed impact energy expenditure. (included: interview with pack designer Dan Durston.) To view the show notes for this episode of the podcast, click here .

Jun 23

In this Field Notes episode, Ryan Jordan explores the science of shelter fabrics - from strength-to-weight ratios and waterproofing to coating quality, pitch stability, and storm resilience. Featuring technical insights and field-tested analysis, this episode highlights the engineering tradeoffs between Dyneema and Ultra TNT composite fabrics, silnylons and silpolys, and more. To view the shownotes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Jun 2

In this Field Notes (shorts) episode, host Ryan Jordan challenges a widely held ultralight backpacking belief: that camp chairs are a luxury. Drawing on personal experience, recovery science, and biomechanical insights, Ryan explores how sitting well in the backcountry isn't just about comfort - it's about physiological and cognitive recovery. You'll learn why your posture at rest impacts your blood flow, muscle recovery, decision-making, and nervous system tone - and how a simple camp chair might be one of the most overlooked performance tools in your pack. We'll also unpack the baggage around the word luxury, and reframe gear decisions through the lens of function, not dogma. If you've ever questioned whether a chair belongs in your kit, or if you're curious how small decisions impact long-term performance in the backcountry, this episode offers a fresh, data-informed perspective. Takeaway: Recovery isn't passive. It's a skill - and how you sit at camp might matter more than you think. To view the shownotes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

May 19

Many hikers dream of completing a long thru-hike, but face physical, mental, and logistical challenges that often lead to burnout, injury, or quitting. It's easy to fall into the trap of overexertion, gear failures, poor nutrition, and mental fatigue. In this episode, Nikki Stavile shares thru-hiking strategies to help you prepare mentally, train physically, manage your gear and nutrition, and stay emotionally resilient - so you can hike smarter, happier, and healthier. To view the show notes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

May 5

In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, host Ryan Jordan speaks with Black Diamond athlete Joe Grant and product designer Derick Noffsinger about the conception, design process, and field testing behind Black Diamond's fastpacking-oriented pack systems—including the Distance and Beta Light models. The discussion covers the challenges of designing hybrid load-carrying systems that merge the comfort and mobility of running vests with the load-bearing capacity of traditional backpacks. Joe provides context from real-world testing, including an 11-day, 400-mile fastpacking loop through the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, while Derick explains the rationale behind material choices like Challenge Ultra fabrics and the progression from early prototypes to commercial models. Additional topics include pack fit, load distribution, scaling harness design across different volumes, and how specific design elements—such as ice axe attachments and pack tapering—optimize performance for scrambling, climbing, and off-trail travel. The episode concludes with insights into ongoing refinement strategies and how incremental improvements in gear design support more efficient and confident movement in technical environments. To view the shownote for this epsiode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Apr 21

Learn how to fastpack smarter and lighter - Ryan Jordan breaks down the "Five F's of Fastpacking"—Focus, Fitness, Fuel, Footwear, and Fast & Light Gear—and shares performance-based strategies for moving efficiently with minimal gear over long distances. Includes gear recommendations, training insights, and exclusive content for Unlimited Members. To view the show notes for this episode of the podcast, click here .

Apr 7

Today's episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast is sponsored by Outdoor Vitals StormLoft Down Topquilt, featuring ExpeDry gold-treated water-resistant down. This quilt dries faster than traditional DWR-treated down, keeping you warm even in damp conditions, and is available in multiple fill weights for temperature control. To view the show notes for this episode, click here .

Mar 17

In episode 121 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about how to plan a short thru-hike. To view the shownotes for this episode, click here .

Mar 3

In episode 120 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to continue our study of how to sleep warm in cold temperatures, focusing on the gear that makes up your sleeping system. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here :

Feb 20

In this episode, we'll introduce you to the Trail Days speakers and give you a sneak peek at their presentation topics and expertise. From ultralight pack design to scrambling techniques, backcountry hygiene to desert travel, there's something for everyone. To view the shownotes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Feb 17

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about bedtime routines and practices for sleeping warm in the backcountry. To view the show notes for this episode, click here .

Feb 3

In episode 118 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about traction systems for snow travel. To view the show notes for this episode, click here .

Jan 27

In episode 115 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn how to size snowshoes, minimize sinkage, and save energy for your next winter adventure in deep snow. To view the shownotes for this episdoe, click here .

Jan 13

In this episode you'll learn how to measure and interpret slope angles to help you navigate steep terrain and assess hazards in the backcountry. To view the shownotes for this episode, click here .

Dec 30, 2024

In episode 115 of the Backpacking Light Podcast we're sharing Big Talk about Tiny Things: Those little ultralight bits of gear that have an outsized impact on our experience in the backcountry. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here .

Dec 24, 2024

In episode 114 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about the different types of synthetic fibers and fabrics used in outdoor apparel. To view the shownotes for this episode, click here .

Nov 26, 2024

In episode 113 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we talk about current PAD PUMP trends in the ultralight cottage industry, the challenges faced by small businesses during the holiday season plus a few interesting stocking stuffers. To view the shownotes for this podcast, click here .

Nov 11, 2024

In episode 112 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about the analog Backcountry experience and some of the gear that can help feed your need for a digital-free backcountry life. To view the shownotes for this epsiode, click here .

Oct 29, 2024

In this episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, Ryan and Lloyd discuss lessons learned from starting a business in the outdoor industry. To view the shownotes, click here .

Oct 23, 2024

In episode 110 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we talk about how natural and synthetic fibers influence thermoregulation. To view the shownotes for this episode, click here .

Oct 16, 2024

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn how fishnet base layers work, we're gonna talk about a bigger battery and why or why it may not be better than two littler batteries, and we'll talk about how the most comprehensive backpacking skills education program that we've ever offered will help you become a backcountry expert. To view the show notes for this episode, click here .

Sep 30, 2024

On today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, Nikki Stavile interviews Brian Noakes of El Coyote quilts, and we talk about a new satellite messaging device that can now send photos and voice memos. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here .

Sep 25, 2024

In episode 107 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we are going to learn about backpack ventilation and have a chat about pack design and its impact on thermoregulation with Vaucluse founder Brice Sokolowski. To view the show notes for this episode, click here .

Aug 26, 2024

In episode 106 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about tent stake holding power and have a chat about tent stake design with Suluk 46 founder Steve Evans. To view the shownotes for this episode, click here .

Jul 31, 2024

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about traveling off-trail responsibly, a rain jacket that defines new standards for durability and performance, and a kite skiing expedition across greenland with Jesse Crocker. To view the shownotes for this episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, check out our website.

Jul 25, 2024

In Episode 104 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, Ryan and Lloyd interview Jolly Gear founder Bennett Fisher, chat about what is in their day packs, and share their perspectives on recruiting and hiring employees for their companies. To view the shownotes for this episode of the backpackinglight podcast click here .

Jun 17, 2024

Episode 103 of the Backpacking Light Podcast is a collaboration between Backpacking Light and Garage Grown Gear, home to more than 200 small, startup, and cottage gear brands, and your hub for all things ultralight. Visit them online at garagegrowngear.com. To read the shownotes for this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

May 31, 2024

In episode 102 of the Backpacking Light podcast you're going to learn about the origin, evolution, and use of Polartec Alpha Direct in modern ultralight layering systems. To read the shownotes for this podcast, click here .

Apr 8, 2024

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk to Glen Van Peski about the life lessons we can learn from ultralight backpacking. To view the shownotes for this episode, click here .

Mar 25, 2024

In Episode 100 of the Backpacking Light Podcast we're going to celebrate sunshine and the one hundredth episode of the backpacking light podcast featuring stories from our listeners and more. To view the show notes for this podcast, including a listing of some of our listener's favorite podcasts from the first 100, check out the shownotes .

Mar 12, 2024

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about how bears smell, and what you can do to hide your food from the nose of a bear. To view the show notes for this episode, click here .

Feb 19, 2024

In episode 98 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn how to get the most out of your ultralight canister stove for winter backpacking. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here .

Feb 5, 2024

In episode 97 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn what it's like to hike with your dog in the backcountry. To view the show notes for this episode, click here .

Jan 22, 2024

In episode 96 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn how to build resilience in the backcountry. To view the show notes, click here !

Jan 8, 2024

In episode 95 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about the types of natural fibers that make up the fabrics we use for base layer and insulating apparel. To view the show notes for this episode, click here .

Dec 18, 2023

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk about pressing the SOS button, as well as gear and best practices for backcountry cooking in ultralight style. To read the show notes, click here !

Dec 4, 2023

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we're going to talk about wilderness emergency rescue from the very different and unique perspective of an air ambulance service operating in the Canadian Wilderness. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here .

Nov 20, 2023

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast we're going to talk about a very unique way to enjoy tenkara fly fishing in the backcountry, and the idea of minimalism vs. performance minimalism. Guest: Bryon Powell Our guest this week is Bryon Powell. We don't even know where to start with Bryon, he has been an Unlimited Member in the Backpacking Light Community since - get this - October, 2007 - more than 16 years! He's one of the most inspiring people we've ever had the privilege of interviewing. Bryon's the founding editor of irunfar.com and currently calls Silverton, Colorado, his home. He has a very, very long list of trail running and ultrarunning accolades, and is also a very accomplished backpacking and fastpacking practitioner. But what interests us the most about Bryon is his passion for backcountry fly fishing, and specifically, for tenkara fly fishing, and the extent to which he blends fly fishing and long-distance backcountry travel not only to maximize his enjoyment of vast wilderness landscapes, but his enjoyment of the fisheries that they harbor.

Nov 13, 2023

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk about fishnet base layers. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here .

Nov 6, 2023

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk about four season tents, a new ABC watch that could dethrone the Garmin Fenix, and alpaca wool fabrics used for next-to-skin base layer apparel. To view the show notes for this episode, click here .

Oct 2, 2023

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we are going to talk about fall layering systems. To view the show notes for this episode, visit our website !

Sep 10, 2023

Episode 88 of the Backpacking Light podcast features nine pieces of gear from Ryan's kit that he liked, didn't like, and is sitting on the fence about. To view the shownotes for this podcast, click here .

Aug 23, 2023

Episode 87 of the Backpacking Light podcast features highlights from our new Publisher's Gear Guide - the gear that I actually own and use on my backcountry adventures. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here .

Aug 8, 2023

In this episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk about ultralight fabrics used in backpacking shelters. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here .

Jul 10, 2023

In this episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk about lightning storm risk management in the backcountry. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here .

Jul 3, 2023

In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we interview Morris Shawn, President of Roadpost and Zoleo, about satellite messaging and the evolution of the Zoleo Satellite Communicator. To view the shownotes of the podcast, click here .

Jun 9, 2023

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk about managing condensation in shelters. To view the show notes, click here .

May 23, 2023

This episode features fabric repair kits for hiking and backpacking, including various fabric repair scenarios, strategies, and supplies. Check out the shownotes here .

May 15, 2023

In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, Ryan interviews Ben Kilbourne about his recent album, Unresting Event, and they discuss creating in the backcountry while sharing two songs from the album. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here .

Apr 17, 2023

In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, Ryan discusses ultralight first aid kits for backcountry use. Check out the program notes here .

Mar 27, 2023

This episode is targeted to the backcountry angler who may be new to tenkara fly fishing, to help them understand (1) how tenkara fishing fits into the overall backcountry experience, and (2) the process of stalking, casting to, and catching fish. To view the show notes for this podcast, clicke here.

Mar 20, 2023

In this episode, we're going to address stove system performance and specifically, flame power versus fuel efficiency. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here .

Feb 22, 2023

In this episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we're going to examine some of the principles of Leave No Trace in the context of winter backcountry travel, with a focus on planning, pooping, and campfires. To read the show notes, click here .

Feb 13, 2023

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we are going to explore vapor barrier systems for the hands and feet. To view the podcast shownotes, click here .

Feb 8, 2023

Much attention is paid to layering for the torso, head, hands, and feet - but the legs are often ignored. However, during winter conditions, an intentional layering strategy for the legs can make the difference between comfort and misery. For mild winter conditions, a layering strategy may look similar to a 3-season lower body layering system. However, when temperatures drop below freezing, and snow and wind increase, the strategy needs to change a bit. Listen to this episode to explore some of these strategies so you can stay warm and comfortable when the mercury drops. To view the shownotes, click here .

Jan 23, 2023

In this episode, we address winter shelter stakes for frozen ground, hard snow, and unconsolidated snow. To view the shownotes for this podcast, click here .

Jan 9, 2023

In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, you're going to learn about avalanche awareness in the context of winter hiking, snowshoeing, and ski touring. To view the show notes, click here .

Nov 23, 2022

In this episode we talk to Garage Grown Gear CEO and co-founder Lloyd Vogel where we'll be diving into the outdoor gear cottage industry. To view the shownotes of this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here .

Nov 15, 2022

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we're going to talk about how to use multi-layered sleep systems to stay warmer on multi-day trips in cold weather.

Nov 2, 2022

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we're going to talk about how to mitigate cold feet during fall-season backpacking conditions.

Oct 11, 2022

In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we're going to talk about gear and skills for pitching ultralight shelters in inclement conditions - rain, snow, wind, and cold. View the show notes here .

Sep 30, 2022

In today's gear short episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we're going to talk about the brand new Garmin inReach Messenger and how it fits into the broader market of satellite communications devices for backcountry users. To view the show notes for this episode, click here .

Sep 9, 2022

In this skills short episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, Andrew and Ryan talk sh**, a.k.a, 💩. How to poop in the woods? It's an age-old question, particularly as popular backcountry sites become more crowded. This episode addresses the question of how long poop takes to decompose and suggests alternative LNT-approved methods (beyond catholes) for dealing with human waste. To view the shownotes for this episode, click here .

Aug 26, 2022

In this skills short episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, Ryan and Andrew discuss small cameras for backpacking. Today's episode is very focused and short - just a quick list of a few cameras we've liked and used to get good results with backcountry photography. Click here for show notes.

Aug 9, 2022

In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, Andrew and Ryan chat with She Summits Co. founder and director Amanda Hatley. She Summits is a female-owned and female-led adventure camp that empowers young women through outdoor experiences like backpacking, kayaking, and climbing. In the extended Members Only version of this episode - the full interview with Amanda Hatley, the Tarptent Dipole Li, Bedrock Sandals Cairn Adventure Sandals, Scarpa Ribelle Shoes, and new educational opportunities at Backpacking Light. click here for show notes: https://www.backpackinglight.com/episode-65-amanda-hatley

Jul 22, 2022

In this episode, Andrew chats with Backpacking Light Staff contributor Drew Smith. If you are a reader of the website, you may know Drew from his lovely stories about desert backpacking, or perhaps you've been reading his ongoing series about freeze-drying. If you haven't read Drew's work, make sure you check out the resources section (below) where we'll have links to the articles we talk about in this interview. Drew Smith grew up in Tuscon and Southern California and dabbled in long-distance hiking in his early twenties before picking it back up again later in life. He's got a lot of interesting things to say about deserts, gear, food, and how to craft a hiking story, Enjoy! An extended video version of this podcast goes into more depth. Not a member? Click here ! Click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/episode-64-drew-smith

Jun 21, 2022

In this episode, Andrew chats with Backpacking Light Staff writer Mark Wetherington . Mark began backpacking in 2007 as a student at the University of Kentucky, and since then he's been exploring the southeast and the west on foot, bicycle, and skis. Mark's writing has appeared in Backpacker Magazine and Trail Groove Magazine in addition to Backpacking Light. Andrew and Mark chat about backpacking in the southeast, Mark's love of exploring the same place over and over again, Mark's favorite pieces he's written for Backpacking Light, and more. Click here for show notes and video version: https://backpackinglight.com/episode-63-mark-wetherington The extended version of this podcast is available for Unlimited Members on our website. Click here to become a member: https://backpackinglight.com/membership/ *** Help us keep this podcast AD-FREE *** Our podcast is 100% supported by Backpacking Light Members - please consider supporting us today by becoming a member so we can keep this channel AD-FREE! https://backpackinglight.com/membership/ *** Get the FREE Backpacking Light Handbook *** Want outdoor gear and skills info you can really trust? Get our Handbook - the resource you need to make intelligent decisions about gear, safety, comfort, and pack weight: https://backpackinglight.com/newsletter/ *** Affiliate Disclosure *** https://backpackinglight.com/disclosure-letter/

Jun 10, 2022

In this episode, Andrew chats with gear designer and biologist Dan Durston. Dan is an accomplished backpacker and longtime Backpacking Light member. He went from gear enthusiast to gear tester to successful gear designer and small-business owner in a remarkably short time. His most recent shelter, the Durston X-Mid Pro 2 ( read our review ), is one of the buzziest ultralight shelters to hit the market in quite a while. All this despite the fact that Dan doesn't have a background in engineering or design. In this wide-ranging interview, Andrew and Dan talk about design philosophy, the difference between designing for shelters and packs, his journey from tester to designer, upcoming projects from Durston Gear, and more. click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/podcast-62-dan-durston

May 17, 2022

In this episode, Ryan and Andrew discuss how and why to use a frameless pack while backpacking. click here for show notes

May 3, 2022

In this episode, Ryan chats with Willow Belden of Out There . Out There is a podcast that tackles big questions through intimate storytelling and is committed to elevating the voices of those traditionally left out of the conversation when it comes to the outdoors. Also in this episode: a conversation about a new outdoor fabric, updates on some packs we've been testing, and the launch of a new Backpacking Light online course - the How to Use Gaia GPS masterclass. Click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/episode-60-willow-belden-out-there

Apr 12, 2022

We talk a lot about gear on this podcast. Gear is fun, and if you are a fan of this pod, you probably have an interest not only in if something works, but why it works. Still, it's easy to begin to fetishize gear, to turn it almost into the point of having adventures rather than a tool to facilitate them. Don't believe us? Just search "gear layout" hashtags on Instagram. That's why we've always loved the essay "Good Gear Lets you be Present" by Ben Kilbourne. In his classic style, Ben struggles to balance his technical and professional interest in gear with his desire to be more fully present on outdoor adventures, something that many of us also struggle with. We think you'll enjoy his perspective. click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/podcast-59-ben-kilbourne-good-gear-lets-you-be-present

Mar 29, 2022

Benny Braden is a public lands advocate and accomplished long-distance hiker. In this episode, Andrew and Ryan chat with him about public lands stewardship, social media, National Park funding, and more. Also in this episode - what's up with bagging dog poop but leaving it on the side of the trail? click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/podcast-58-benny-brayden-vandalism-social-media/

Mar 15, 2022

In this episode, Andrew chats with Henry and Julie Mosier of Food for the Sole about running a small business in the outdoor industry, idea iteration, bikepacking, working with family, finding mentors, and more! click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/podcast-57-food-for-sole

Mar 4, 2022

In this episode, we chat with longtime Backpacking Light contributor Rex Sanders about his ongoing tests of portable battery chargers. Also, Ryan and Andrew chat about vandalism on public lands, electronic device management, new gear from Atom Packs, and the benefits of freeze-drying.

Feb 1, 2022

Ryan and Andrew discuss strategies and gear for managing perspiration in layering systems, including the processes of wicking, evaporation, and ventilation. click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/podcast-55-perspiration-layering-wicking-evaporation-ventilation

Jan 19, 2022

In this episode of the backpacking Light Podcast, we interview physical therapist and athletic performance coach John Zombro about foot health, footwear, injuries, rehabilitation, training, and more. Also in this episode: shoes we are looking at in 2022, updates on the Backpacking Light Member Q and A series, and our favorite things we've published lately! click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/podcast-54-foot-injuries-training-rehabilitation-hiking-backpacking-zombro

Jan 3, 2022

Backpacking Light contributor Ben Kilbourne reads his meditation on the transition from wilderness to trail to parking lot. Click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/episode-53-going-home

Dec 20, 2021

We're gonna wrap up the year with a survey of gear we loved using in 2021. We polled the Backpacking Light staff and contributors and asked them to talk about the gear they couldn't live without in 2021 - and why. Make sure and check out the related Staff Picks 2021 article for more . Enjoy, and we'll see you next year! click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/episode-52-gear-2021

Nov 30, 2021

This is the first installment of the Backpacking Light Podcast's new series of cottage industry interviews - where Andrew and Ryan chat with some of the small business owners who make up the ultralight cottage industry world. In this episode, the guys interview Livio Melo, the founder of allmansright . click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/podcast-51-cottage-short-allmans-right

Nov 23, 2021

It's our 50th episode! To celebrate, we reached out to listeners and asked them to submit their big backpacking questions. We received fantastic questions about gear, philosophy, and skills and enjoyed chatting about the answers. Also in this episode, an interview with Backpacking Light grant recipient Narinda Heng and some upcoming educational opportunities at Backpacking Light. Enjoy! click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/episode-50-qa

Nov 9, 2021

In this SKILLS SHORT, Andrew and Ryan chat about layers that don't quite fit into the traditional three-layer system. Click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/episode-49-untraditional-layers

Oct 26, 2021

In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, Ryan and Andrew chat with Backpacking Light author and materials tester Stephen Seeber about layering, waterproof-breathable fabrics, and new GORE-TEX technology. Also in this episode, we discuss a new pack from Arc'teryx, updates to the popular NEMO Tensor line of sleeping pads, and a follow-up conversation about water-resistant down. click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/episode-048-waterproof-breathable

Oct 12, 2021

In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, longtime Backpacking Light contributor Mark Wetherington reads his essay The Backpacking Tithe Project. In it, he considers the implications of intentionally focusing on frequent, short trips over long thru-hikes. Click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/episode-47-mark-wetherington-reads-the-backpacking-tithe-project

Sep 23, 2021

In today's podcast, Andrew chats with some of the folks from IDFL Laboratory and Institute (originally known as the International Down and Feather Testing Laboratory) about water-resistant down. Also in this episode, Andrew shares some of the creative things listeners are doing in the backcountry and gives his final thoughts on the Nunatak Gear Bears Ears 50 pack. Click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/episode-46-down

Sep 3, 2021

In this SKILLS SHORT EPISODE, Ryan and Andrew talk about strategies and techniques for creative pursuits in the backcountry: painting, writing, composing, photography, journaling, and more! Click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/episode-45-backcountry-creativity

Aug 20, 2021

In this episode, Andrew chats with Jadon Bales (Communications Director, Wyoming Wildlife Federation) about the new reality of wildfire behavior in the west. Ryan gives some actionable advice on planning for worst-case wildfire scenarios and highlights some new discussions going on at Backpacking Light. Also in this episode - Platypus' new water filter could be a game-changer. Click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/episode-44-wildfires/

Aug 6, 2021

In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, author Ben Kilbourne uses the writing of Aldo Leopold to examine his motivations when exploring the backcountry. It's a thought-provoking essay that may just have you reconsidering why you are out there. Would you like to read the written version of this podcast? Check it out here . Click here for show notes: https://backpackinglight.com/episode-043-observing-transition