Over the years, ultralight backpacking has garnered an unfortunate reputation: obsessive, elitist, unsafe, prohibitively expensive. While we could debate the first three (obsessive is the only one I’d ...

For backpackers, going ultralight is easier (and less expensive) than you might expect. We stepped back to give tips on reducing pack weight for weekend backpacking trips and thru-hikes alike. Every ...

When it comes to ultralight backpacking gear, the importance of silnylon can't be overstated. The simple fabric construction--lightweight ripstop nylon impregnated with a waterproof silicone ...

Hyperlite Mountain Gear joins fellow ultralight backpacking gear makers like Durston and Six Moons Design in adding a little bit of extra usability and comfort to its lineup of low weight shelters.

Ultralight tents are one of the great engineering marvels: out of a sheet of wafer-thin fabric and a pair of trekking poles, you can make shelter suitable to withstand wind, rain, bugs, and more. Our ...

Go behind the scenes at the Outside Lab. See how we used data and science to stress-test rain shells, backpacks, and ...

Fifteen years ago, ultralight hiking gear was truly edgy. Every cottage brand had a 12-ounce silnylon pack. Half-length pads and body mapped designs were a compromise between full-on misery and smart ...

Despite being around for more than a decade, Lloyd Vogel said his outdoor gear store is a relatively hidden gem in St. Paul, getting maybe 10 in-store shoppers a day. Garage Grown Gear specializes in ...