Spooky.

Hearing the signature scream of a mountain lion late at night?

Also spooky.

Feeling the hot sun beat down on your neck?

Not spooky. Yet, that very sun is a much greater cause for concern on the trail than any of our four-legged friends might otherwise be. Or rather, it's a greater cause for concern that pretty much anything.

All too often, hikers feel the effects of direct exposure to hot sunlight and choose to carry on, leading to increasing cases of heat exhaustion and heat stroke around the country. Let's take a moment to dive into these concerns, understand the symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion, and learn how to prevent them before they are even an issue.

The Real Danger: Heat-Related Illnesses

You may think that deadly blizzards or flash floods are the most dangerous weather events for those in the outdoors, but according to the World Meteorological Organization, extreme heat has the highest mortality rate of any extreme weather event. Heat-related deaths are often underreported, meaning the actual risk might be even higher than we realize.

Understanding Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

People often confuse heat exhaustion and heat stroke with one another, however there is a significant difference between the two. Heat exhaustion, though extremely dangerous, is only the precursor to heat stroke. Heat exhaustion occurs when your body temperature rises due to environmental heat or physical exertion. Those who spend time exerting themselves outside are especially at risk. Think hikers, distance runners, construction workers, and athletes.

A few things to look out for are skin tingling, nausea and vomiting, dizziness and headaches, irritability and fatigue, and excessive sweating. These can be early warning signs that danger is on it's way!

If heat exhaustion isn’t addressed promptly, it can escalate to heat stroke, a severe condition marked by a body temperature over 104°F. Heat stroke can lead to multiple organ dysfunction, seizures, kidney failure, and even death. Early symptoms include: sudden behavioral changes, confusion and delirium, dizziness, weakness, agitation and combativeness, slurred speech, and nausea.

You can imagine how significant cognitive impairment would be a danger to someone in the wilderness, but this danger is SIGNIFICANTLY compounded by the fact that those affected are operating on the clock!

Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses

Prevention is key when it comes to heat exposure! Here are some tips to help make sure that you don't wind up in a sticky situation.

1. Stay Hydrated: Carry more water than you think you’ll need. Dehydration can set in quickly, and it’s better to have extra water than to run out.
2. Dress Appropriately: Wear a thin, long-sleeve hiking shirt and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from UV rays. It might seem counterintuitive, but covering up can help keep you cooler.
3. Take Breaks: Find shade, rest frequently, and avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day.
4. Listen to Your Body: If you start feeling dizzy, nauseous, or overly fatigued, stop immediately. These are warning signs that your body is overheating.
5. Know the Symptoms: Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke so you can act quickly if you or someone else starts showing signs.

What to Do if Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke Strikes

If you or someone else experiences symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke:

1. Find Shade: Get out of the sun and into a cooler area.
2. Cool Down: Remove unnecessary clothing, apply cool water to the skin, and fan the person.
3. Hydrate: Offer sips of water! You want to hydrate AND cool the person down internally.
4. Seek Medical Help: Seek medical assistance immediately.

Heat-related illnesses can be deadly, but with the right precautions and a quick response, they are preventable. Stay safe out there, respect the power of the sun, and enjoy your hikes responsibly!

Mike Fink

The post Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke while Hiking appeared first on Hazeadventure.

If you're looking for something that can handle longer hikes then check out the Gossamer Gear Loris 25.

Osprey Talon 22 Review

In my opinion, the Osprey Talon 22 stands out from the lot of competitor hydration packs. It weighs 2.2 pounds, has a 22-liter capacity (total goods, not just water), and retails for $160. I find that the 20-liter range is perfect for hiking-focused hydration packs. Anything more than that and they can get a little cumbersome, clunky, and ultimately, you'd probably be better off just investing in a classic day-hiking backpack. 

This pack doesn't actually come with a water bladder. It keeps the price down, but I'd much rather pay a little bit more and not worry about the additional purchase. I'm sure many a hiker has assumed it was included, only to be disappointed the morning of the outing. 

Osprey Talon 22 Water Bladder

A sort of medium ding, has to do with the placement of the bladder in the Talon 22. I love how it's stored in a separate compartment, between the main chamber and your back. That way, if you spring a leak, your other stuff has a better chance of not getting fully saturated before you realize what's happened. However, this compartmentalization makes it harder to actually get the bladder in and out when the rest of the bag is packed. But honestly, I'll take that trade off any day. I like that I'm able to sort my gear, and the Talon 22 even has an additional exterior sleeve, for a quick-access rain jacket (or something of the sort. 

Osprey packs are known for their exceptional airflow. The Osprey Talon 22 is more minimalistic than the average day pack. That's to be expected with smaller packs. It does, however, feature generous hip belt pockets, and a tighter, but still functional shoulder strap pocket (best suited to sunglasses or other small items). 

I think this is a great hydration pack to take on those crossover adventures. It's an easy-going day-pack, it's big enough but still light enough for fast-packing/long-distance trail runs (you can even stow your trekking poles very easily on the fly), and there's a helmet lock for you mountain bikers out there. 

Osprey Stratos 24 Review

Osprey Stratos 24 occupies more of that traditional hiking backpack territory. The first thing that sets it apart is its advanced ventilation system and adjustable yoke. The hip belt is designed to sit lower, meaning it will actually be placed on your hips. I find that a lot of hydration bladders ride up above the belly button. This can be kind of annoying, and also limits performance. 

Highest Volume of all these Hydration Packs

The Osprey Stratos 24 also has the highest volume capacity (24 liters) of the bunch. This makes it the most capable of taking on long, single-push adventures, or even multi-day outings that involve sleeping in huts/albergues/pre-established camps. The main compartment is big enough for a sleeping bag, the side pockets are super generous (capable of housing Nalgene bottles), and the additional small pockets come in handy for all the common knick-knacks. 

As the YouTube comment section was so kind as to point out on one of my previous videos, Osprey's Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole system is actually easier to use than I first thought. Trekking poles are here to stay, but it's nice to be able to stash them on long stretches of flat terrain. 

The side buckles are much-appreciated for securing my tripod. So take note, all you prospective outdoorsy filmmakers. 

The Osprey Stratos 24 weighs in at 2.75 pounds and retails for $180 (USD). So even though this is the heaviest and most expensive pack (tied with the Coulee 20, but doesn't include a bladder) on the list, it is also the most robust and feature-rich. The Coulee 20 even includes a raincover. Traditional day hikers will be well-served by the Coulee 20. The day pack designed for those fast and light missions. 

Osprey Water Bladders

The Talon 22 nor the Stratos 24 do not include a water bladder. Osprey sells their own water bladder that can be purchased separately. I'm a fan because I find the bite-valve works well. The hose itself can be easily disconnected from the main bladder. This really helps for draining, drying, and just generally mitigating bacterial build up. This also helps with the loading/unloading problem, as the hose can be ditched until you're all set up and ready to go.

Cons of the Stratos 24

The only thing I don't love is the twist locking mechanism. It works perfectly fine, as long as you can remember if it's in the open or closed position. If left unlocked, you're going to get some leakage on the fly. Osprey also has a fold and seal top closure system for its bladders. I find this to be the most dependable approach – especially compared to the twist top. 

CamelBak Arete 18 Review

The first thing I love about CamelBak hydration packs is that they actually come with a water bladder. What a concept! The CamelBak Arete 18, which is the most straight-forward, minimal pack we'll talk about today, comes with a 1.5L bladder. To be honest, I like to carry at least 2 liters for most hikes, but given how stripped down this one is, I think it's intended more for trail runners.

You can only physically run with so much weight on your back, and mere mortals can only run for a few hours at a time, so I suppose 1.5 is enough for most of the intended outings in the CamelBak Arete 18. Plus, ultra-runners can aim to refill at aid stations, or pre-planned supply stops (or just loop back for home/the parking lot, reload, and head out again). 

No Structure to the Arete 18

The CamelBak Arete 18 has almost no structure to it. But that doesn't mean that it's without carrying capacity. There's a lid pocket that is perfect for keys, snacks, and maybe a headlamp. The main chamber can be buckled and synched. And there are two side pockets for stashing other grab n' go items (perhaps even extra water bottles). 

I also appreciate how the CamelBak Arete 18 come with built-in clips to secure the bladder's hose. This is a small design detail that makes a big difference on the trail. Sometimes this is easy to overlook, until you get pounding away and realize that the hose flaps around annoyingly. 

On the other hand, the CamelBak Arete 18 only has a chest buckle, not a hip belt. This could lead to some extra sloshiness while on the move. Given that its capacity is lower, this may not be that noticeable for day-hikers. But trail runners might take issue. 

To many, the biggest selling points on the CamelBak Arete 18 are its raw specs. It costs only $75 (remember, including the water bladder), and it weighs a mere 11 ounces (300 grams). This makes it, by far, the lightest and cheapest pack on this list.  

Mystery Ranch Coulee 20 Review

The Mystery Ranch Coulee 20, like the Osprey Stratos 24, is first and foremost, a day-hiking backpack. But I wanted to highlight it because it still applies to this demographic. Plus, I've used it a ton, and am happy to recommend it. This one costs $179 (USD) and weighs 2.6 pounds, so it's at the top end for price and weight, but it is also the one with the best capacity to carry weight (not volume, but certainly weight). And I can't possibly understate the craftsmanship that Mystery Ranch brings to the table. 

I like how the Mystery Ranch Coulee 20 has a front flay opening. This allows me to quickly access anything in the main chamber of the bag. Personally, I find this the best option for carrying my camera equipment. The Coulee 20 can be adjusted for different torso lengths. With the other ones, you simply get what you get. 

Just a heads up, Mystery Ranch doesn't make their own bladders. The Mystery Ranch Coulee 20 is bladder-compatible. You will need to purchase a water bladder from a different brand separately.

If you want to learn more about this day-hiking/hydration pack, check out my Mystery Ranch Coulee 20L and 30L Review.

CamelBak SnoBlast 22 Review

Hydration doesn't just apply to hot summer days. And nothing stands firmer against the bitter winter cold than the CamelBak SnoBlast 22. Most bladders struggle when the thermometer drops to below freezing. For once ice forms in the hose, the whole thing becomes useless. To prevent this, the CamelBak SnoBlast 22 wraps the hose in an insulated tube, and then that whole piece tucks into another insulated chamber within the shoulder strap.

The second layer can be unzipped to access water. The second layer can be resealed to keep the water warm and in liquid form. It also helps to keep it out of the way while carving down the ski slopes. Note that the CamelBak SnoBlast 22 does include a bladder. It has a 2-liter volume and also has a detachable hose (totally the way to go in the long run). 

Winter Hydration Pack

The CamelBak SnoBlast 22 can anchor skis on its sides. It also has two loops for anchoring a helmet (which you can do by fishing the strap through each). 

Like the Coulee 20, the SnoBlast has a big front open zip, and also some smaller storage options. And, of course, the 22-liter capacity is well-suited for packing extra jackets, mitts, an emergency kit, and all that stuff that comes into play, even more so, when adventuring in the cold. The pack can be expanded to accommodate poofy layers, or compressed when you're wearing all that stuff and just want to move fluidly over the terrain.  

This pack is coated in a water resistant material (which certainly comes in handy when frolicking in the snow). And the locking mechanism on the drinking nozzle is super clear and easy to use, even with gloves on. Rather than a twist, it uses an up/down joint. Unfortunately, they combine this with a spin closure top to the bladder. I've soaked my back once or twice because I didn't line up the thread properly with units like this. 

The CamelBak SnoBlast 22 retails for $120 (USD) and despite the extra insulation, still only weighs 2.4 pounds. This may be a niche purchase, but it will provide excellent value for winter warriors. 

Best Hydration Pack for Hiking?

It's hard to rank these packs, since they all excel in different areas. However, given that the theme of this article is hydration packs, I think the Osprey Talon 22 fits the bill the best.

If you're looking for something that can handle longer hikes then check out the Gossamer Gear Loris 25.

Until next time, stay classy, and stay hydrated! 

The post Osprey Talon 22, Stratos 24 vs CamelBak Arete 18, SnoBlast 22 vs Coulee 20: Hydration Pack Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Lets dive into this 4 hydration pack comparison of the Osprey Tempest 20 vs Gregory Juno 24 vs Coulee 20 vs Osprey Sirrus 24!

Osprey Tempest 20 Hydration Pack Review

One of the most commonly-sold women's day packs on the market is the Osprey Tempest 20. It is appropriate for a range of round-trip adventures, but especially ones in which hydration is key. Along with a 20-liter storage capacity, it features compression straps to tighten up your load, and some gear attachments to accommodate things like trekking poles and a helmet. Interestingly, the hydration compartment is actually an external pouch.

So should a leak occur, your other belongings won't get quite as drenched. However, even though the compartmentalization is intuitive, because it's placed right behind your shoulders, it can be tricky to actually access the bladder when the bag is full. And the chamber ends up being way too narrow for a larger reservoir (i.e. 3L). So just be aware of that.

Osprey Tempest 20 Specifics

The Osprey Tempest 20 only weighs about 2 pounds (depending on the specific size) and retails for $160 (USD), but…that does not include an actual hydration bladder. You'll have to buy that separately (so budget for around $200 all-in). 

Gregory Juno 24 Hydration Pack Review

The Gregory Juno 24 day pack also weighs in at just a smidge under 2 pounds. It retails for $140 (USD), and the water bladder is included. So right off the bat, this pack screams value. I carried the Gregory Juno 24 on a day trip through the mountains of Montana, with a generous 3 liters of water, plus my other day-hiking essentials, and was perfectly comfortable the whole time.

The pockets are plentiful on the Gregory Juno 24 and there are a few gear loops to help extend its 24L carrying capacity. The bladder slips in nice and easy, and also clips in to reduce the sloshiness as you move about the terrain. Something to watch out for is that you properly thread the screw-top lid that Gregory's bladder comes equipped with.

It's easy to misalign, especially if you're raring to get back on the trail, which will then lead to the always annoying leakage before you know it. But as a counterpoint, I find the nozzle's pop n' lock system to be more intuitive and leakproof when compared to the twisty-style found on some other bladders. 

Mystery Ranch Coulee 20 Day Pack Review

The next rad day-hiking/hydration pack on the docket is one that you've heard us talk about before. The Mystery Ranch Coulee 20 is a little pricier for a hydration day pack ($180 USD, without the bladder) and a pinch heavier (2.6 pounds), but as is always the case with Mystery Ranch, this bag is comfy, well-designed, and built-to-last. Unlike the Tempest and the Juno, the Coulee 20 is more of a classic day-hiking backpack that can accommodate a water bladder, rather than a hydration pack with some extra storage space for basic hiking gear.

The tri-zip flay opening is an awesome set up, making it easy to access any gear at any time. The hip belt pockets are also on point, the yoke system is constructed to handle heavier loads, and it is adjustable for different torso lengths. While the back padding is super cushy, I have personally found it to be a bit on the warmer side. This is great if you're hiking in cooler temperatures, but something to be mindful of if heading out into the desert heat. 

Osprey Sirrus 24 Hydration Pack Review

Let's bring it back full circle back Osprey – consistently one of the best-selling backpack brands. The Osprey Sirrus 24 weighs in at 2.7 pounds (i.e. the heaviest on this list) and retails for $180 USD (*not including the bladder*), but it also has that slightly larger, 24L volume (tied with the Gregory Juno 24 but the Sirrus carries more externally), and it is clearly the most backpack-like backpack out of the four. It has the same robust frame and adjustable yoke system that we've seen on some of Osprey's other trekking bags.

There are nice deep external pockets for additional goodies and compression straps to manage the extra bulk, the use of buckles all the way up the sides is useful for bringing tripods and trekking poles along for the ride, and the breathability of the back panel and shoulder straps is the clear stand out of the lot. 

Final Thoughts on Women's Hydration Day Packs

At the end of the day, it's hard to pick one best pack, but the value and performance of the Gregory Juno 24 is tough to argue against. If you're looking for a general bang-for-your-buck bag, then go with the Juno. If you're someone who is planning on doing some fast-packing/trail running/scrambling, then I think Osprey's Tempest 20 would be the way to go. If you're looking for something that can handle longer hikes then check out the Gossamer Gear Loris 25.

The post Osprey Tempest 20 vs Gregory Juno 24 vs Coulee 20 vs Osprey Sirrus 24 | Women’s Hydration Pack Comparison appeared first on Hazeadventure.

So without further adieu, these are my top-picks that you might want to check out for yourselves. 

Zenbivy Light Bed 10-Degree 

Sleep is one of the most crucial aspects of the backpacking equation. Take it from someone who has spent thousands of nights under the stars, it really stinks when you have to trudge on the next day, grumpy and stiff after a restless night.

Versatile Sleep System

Sure, if you're just doing a night out here and there, you can get by with just about anything. But if you're an avid camper, you have to get a comfortable sleep system. This year, I crawled into the Zenbivy Light Bed, and haven't looked back.

Attachable Quilt

The Zenbivy Light Bed, is an R-5 rated quilt and sheet system that can attach to a sleeping mat. It's available in 3 different temperature ratings: 10-degrees, 25-degrees, and 40-degrees (Fahrenheit), and also a variety of sizes (with prices ranging from $458 – $498 USD).

Fits with a Large Mattress

I have the large 10-degree version, which is compatible with a 25-inch-wide by 77-inch-long mattress. I like sliding into the entire system on those cool and cozy nights, but in warmer conditions, you can scale back the setup by simply draping the quilt overtop, which lets some body heat and maybe a wandering leg escape. 

Hooks and Straps vs Zippers

The Zenbivy uses hooks and straps, rather than zippers, to attach the quilt around the sleeping pad. This makes for an easy assembly and brings the comfort factor more inline with a standard sleeping bag. Also, the sheet comes with a massive hood, which allows for a pillow, and still enough room to move around (good for all you shifty sleepers out there). 

The weight of the Zenbivy (quilt/ sheet but minus the sleeping pad) varies depending on size. Here is the chart that Zenbivy provides for the 10-degree version:

Weight (Quilt + Sheet)

Regular-20×72: 2 lb 10 oz (1.19 kg)

Large-20×72: 2 lb 15 oz (1.33 kg)

Large-25×77: 3 lb (1.36 kg)

XL-25×77: 3 lb 5 oz (1.50 kg)

Ultralight Design Core

We can credit the ultralight backpackers for pointing out that the bottom half of a sleeping bag gets so compressed, that the down hardly offers much insulation throughout the night. So why not just ditch that part and combine a top-quilt with a quality inflatable mattress? That's the idea behind Zenbivy's Light Bed.

Cold Weather

The 10-degree (Fahrenheit) version totally gets the job done when it's cold out, and because it can be unhooked and partially thrown off your body if you find yourself overheating, it can accommodate warmer temperatures than an equivalent sleeping bag.

Warmer Weather

However, if you're looking for a comfortable sleep system but regularly head into temperate terrain, then you may want to consider the 25-degree, or even their 40-degree options instead (which will also shave off more weight). But whatever the case, a quilt over a sleeping bag (or rather, instead of) might be the way to go for you. 

Click here to get more Sleeping Tips for Backpacking. 

Big Agnes Copper Spur MTNGLO 2P Tent 

The Big Agnes Copper Spur MTNGLO tent posts a premium price point of $599.95 (USD), but it is worth every penny. I've used a lot of different shelters throughout my backpacking tenure, and this one is my hands-down favorite. The best feature is the massive doorway.

Zipper Design is Great

The specially designed zippers allow for the front and back entrance to open completely up, and to be fashioned into an awning. This makes for a casual hangout space, and offers light protection from the elements without having to hide in a cramped tent all day.

I also love the elevated storage pockets inside. This gets your valuables and random nicknacks off the floor, keeping both you and your tentmate a little more organized (and sane).

Large Headroom

The headroom in this thing is also exceptional for a borderline ultralight tent (2 lbs, 13 oz). The MTNGLO version (which is an optional upgrade over the standard version) has LED lights built-in, which at first I thought was a bit silly, until I went on two early-season trips where the sun set just after dinner.

LED Tent Lighting

Being in a tent for a few hours, in the dark but still too early to sleep, really shows the utility of some pleasant lighting. With that said, the lights and battery unit adds some weight and basic management, so I'll leave it up to you to decide if that part is worth it.

Other than that, this thing does everything that a high quality tent should do. It can handle a range of tough conditions, and it offers excellent ventilation. So other than the price, how can a tent do any better than that?

Jetboil MiniMo Stove and Summit Skillet

I know first-hand that this can be a contentious topic amongst the backpacking community. Last year, I posted a video called Why I'm Ditching the Jetboil – And What I'm Using Instead, and it generated a lot of constructive feedback.

Feedback from Video

This is the way with any comments section, some not-so-constructive criticism from folks, and some great feedback. The theme of the video was about how quick-boil rigs are too easy to fall back on, and push a lot of campers towards dehydrated meals over homestyle cooking.

MSR Pocket Rocket vs Jetboil MiniMo

I ended up promoting MSR's Pocket Rocket as a solution to that problem of passivity. However, I've since come to appreciate Jetboil's more versatile MiniMo stove and skillet combo. It can still do the lightning-fast boil-and-eat method that Jetboil is known for, but because it also has an adjustable flame and a skillet attachment, I can settle in to cooking delicious backpacking meals.

I do also enjoy my Pocket Rocket from time to time. The boil rate isn't quite as fast, but what's the big hurry anyway? Plus, for the budget-conscious backpacker, that rig will save you some coin. 

Lifestraw Peak Squeeze

I've had success with several water filtration systems over the years (Grayl Geopress, RapidPure, and MSR Guardian, to name a few), but they are all on the bulkier side. Sure, they have their advantages, but for general backpacking in places with cleaner water sources (such as mountain rivers), the Lifestraw Peak Squeeze is a stellar option.

Lightweight and Affordable

It's lightweight, and only costs $43.95 (USD). The tiny filter attaches directly to the cap. All you have to do is fill up the foldable, durable, 33.8 fl. oz. (just shy of 1L) pouch, screw it on, and squeeze/suck the filtered (note: not purified) water out.

The one downside is that there is an accompanying syringe that you have to carry with you to backflush the filter regularly (or to unclog it). But if you use it correctly, you'll get upwards of 2,000 liters out of this thing, which is good for a ton of backpacking. 

For more information about water filters vs water purifiers check out this article: $100 Backpacking Water Filters and Purifiers. 

Grand Trunk Compass 360-Degree Stool

I was a pretty minimal, non-chair or stool-using backpacker until I went on a group trip to the Grand Canyon last year. We got to our first camp and the seven other people I was with all busted out their fancy camp seats – leaving me to sit alone on my rock like I was Steven Glansberg. This bit of healthy peer pressure made me realize that one more lightweight item in my pack didn't have to be a pointless burden.

After I started using the 1-pound Grand Trunk Compass 360-Degree Stool, I officially saw the light (pardon the pun…no, embrace the pun!). Not only is it super packable, and pretty darn cheap ($60 USD), but it has added a lot of comfort to my backcountry experience.

Plus, it's fun (and useful) to be able to spin around in a full circle. Despite how small and somewhat flimsy it looks, the Compass actually has a weight capacity of 230 pounds. 

Sea To Summit eVent Compression Dry Sack

Space is always at a premium in a backpack. So having the ability to minimize the amount of volume that your sleeping bag, or your clothes, or your bundles of food take up is super helpful.

My favorite compression sack is the Sea To Summit eVent Compression Dry Sack. It's crazy how much those softer goods can pack down. This is because as you compress, the air can escape – but it remains waterproof! So not only will it help you organize, but it will protect your gear from the elements too. They offer different volumes between 6 to 30L, and the prices vary depending on size. 

Matador Flatpak Dry Bag

Another beauty carry-case I like is the Matador Flatpak. I use it to hang food at night (to keep the bears and rodents at bay), as another pack organizer, and occasionally even as a water hauling device around camp. The feature that makes this unit different is the flat bottom.

Unlike Standard Compression Sacks

Unlike standard compression sacks that have a hard time holding an upright posture, I can just plop the Matador down and walk away without worrying about it tipping over and spilling out. At $40 and 2.3 ounces, there's not much to overthink here. It's just a great “whatever” bag to include in your kit.  

Hillsound Packstack Pro

Yet another handy, mostly waterproof organizer I dig is the Hillsound Packstack Pro. I actually find myself using it as a camera case, since it's so much lighter than my usual media unit. I'll jam some puffy clothes in there for added protection (and to make use of the space), and then I don't have to worry about anything getting damaged or wet.

At only $30 (USD), 4 ounces, and with a capacity of 6.4 L (Oh! and it has a sweet trekking bag contour design for economical packing) this is another simple, no-brainer addition to my arsenal. 

Appalachian Gear Company All-Paca Fleece Hoodie

Appalachian Gear Company is a wholesome little cottage brand based in the U.S. They make a bunch of cool clothes out of alpaca wool, including my all-time favorite mid-layer, the All-Paca Fleece Hoodie. Alpaca wool is one of nature's best, most-efficient fibers. You don't need a lot of it to stay warm, and yet somehow I'm still comfortable in it when the midday temperature starts to rise. It even continues to insulate when it's wet!

Odor Resistant Material

And the best part is it's odor-resistant. Having a wide zone in which a piece can be utilized, again and again, really helps simplify my wardrobe while backpacking/traveling. The price-point may be a bit high for some people's liking ($165 USD), but I promise you the quality makes it worth it. If you're sold, just note that these hoodies run big. I usually wear a medium and this time I had to go with a small. 

Fjallraven Keb Agile Trousers

My top-pick for the year goes to Fjallraven Keb Agile Trousers. The weight feels supportive, yet fluid, they have a bit of stretch to them, there's reinforcement around high-abrasion sites (ankles/knees), and the agile version is a bit more breathable than the regular Keb (which I love for the winter) – so these things are good to go for some hardy hiking adventures.

A Bit Pricey but High Quality

As is the theme with much of my favorite gear from 2022, these pants are on the pricey side ($194.95 USD), but if you're out there on the regular, you know that a few good pieces of high-quality stuff is worth not having to constantly struggle in, and then replace, mediocre alternatives. 

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That does it for my top gear recommendations from my many 2022 trials. I took all of this stuff into a range of real-world settings, and I can give you my scout's honor seal of approval, double thumbs up, 10 out of 10 (would buy again), and every other form of endorsement possible.

The Winners Circle:
– Zenbivy Light Bed
– Big Agnes Copper Spur MTNGLO tent
– Jetboil MiniMo Stove and Summit Skillet
– Lifestraw Peak Squeeze
– Grand Trunk Compass 360-Degree Stool
– Sea To Summit eVent Compression Dry Sack
– Hillsound Packstack Pro
– Appalachian Gear Company All-Paca Fleece Hoodie
– Fjallraven Keb Agile Trousers

Other gear in this article:

• Cotopaxi Baselayer
• Cotopaxi Otero midlayer

But don't just take my word for it, scroll through some of the online reviews to see what the rest of the community is saying. As always, if you're hungry for more gear breakdowns and outdoorsy content, head on over to BackpackingTV. 

The post Best Hiking Gear of the Year 2022 appeared first on Hazeadventure.