Overview: Wool Aire Hoodie

MSRP: $315
Shell Fabric: 100% nylon that’s PFC free, windproof and water resistant
Insulation: 90g recycled wool
Weight: 14.1 ounces (men’s medium) | 12.7 ounces (women’s medium)

About the Wool Aire Hoodie

I wore the Wool Aire Hoodie in early New England spring, in temperatures ranging from the low 30s to mid-50s, on days of light rain and in stiff winds. In all those conditions the Wool Aire Hoodie kept me warm and dry.

I added layers under the coat, depending on the temperature. A long-sleeve base layer kept me warm in the 40s and above. When the temperature hovered near freezing I added a midweight layer.

The Wool Aire Hoodie uses a water-resistant wool blend for insulation, making the coat a good choice for moist days. The nylon shell is wind and water resistant, and the wool inside will still insulate if it gets damp.

The hood has a visor that keeps rain from running down my face, and the hood is easy to tighten around my head by pulling on the cord in the back.

A high collar that extends halfway up my chin seals the coat around my neck, keeping out cold air. The zipper seals inside a zipper garage so it doesn’t pinch my neck. Stretchy cuffs keep the sleeves close to my wrists, and expand enough to slip a thin pair of liner gloves underneath.

And on really cold days when the wind is blowing a cord pulls the hem close to my body, further sealing the coat. Three deep outer zip pockets have room for lightweight gloves and hat, snacks, or my phone. There is not an inside pocket. The coat can stuff inside the chest pocket, making it compact for carrying inside a pack.

About the Wool Insulation

The Wool Aire insulation is 30 percent recycled wool, 50 percent virgin wool and 20 percent corn-based PLA fibers (polylactic acid fiber). PLA fibers are an alternative to oil-based synthetic fibers, and have antibacterial properties that make the insulation odor-resistant.

Ibex recommends washing the coat in cold water without bleach and fabric softeners, and laying it flat to dry.

Good to Know

Merino Wool: Wool is known for its ability to manage moisture by wicking sweat away from the body, keeping odors at bay.

Colors: Atlantic, Sawbrewing, black

Sizes: Small to XXL (men’s) | XS to XXL (women’s)

Wool Aire Pros

Lightweight: 14.1 ounces for a men’s medium, 12.7 ounces for a women’s medium.

Warmth: Warm for its weight.

Wind Resistance: The shell cuts a cold wind.

Pockets: Three outside, including one that the coat stuffs into.

Wool Aire Cons

Cost: Well above the price for comparable coats.

Overall Value

The Wool Aire Hoodie is a high end coat with a lot to like. The shell resists wind and moisture, and the wool insulation keeps me warm even on moist days. Another plus is wool’s ability to wick away sweat and stink. The hood wraps firmly around my head, sealing out cold air. The three outer pockets are deep and hold a lot. And Ibex has a reputation for making quality clothing. But the $315 price puts the hoodie way above comparable coats. But the coat is currently on sale for $236, making it a very attractive purchase.

Similar Hoodies

This product was donated for purpose of review.

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Overview: Nocs Provisions Zero Tube

MSRP: $179.95
Dimensions: 4.33 in. x 1.57 in. x 1.73 in.
Weight: 7.2 ounces

About the Zero Tube

The Zero Tube monocular is a fun addition to my pack on trips into the woods. Weighing 7.2 ounces, it doesn’t add significant weight. I especially enjoy using it to check on the two bald eagle chicks in an island nest near a hiking trail I maintain.

The Zero Tube is small enough to fit in one hand, but it does require two hands for adjusting focus. One hand holds the Zero Tube to my eye while the other twists the front tube to bring images into sharp focus. I do find that it can be hard to keep my hands still while looking through the monocular.

The extra-low dispersion (ED) glass used in the Zero Tube sharpens resolution, improves contrast, and delivers more accurate color so the image is crisp.

The eye cup is easy to twist, inward if you’re wearing glasses, outward if you aren’t.

The field of view (FOV) is 341 feet wide at 1,000 yards deep at the farthest distance from an object, with the field of view’s width decreasing at a closer distance. The closest focus is 4.9 feet.

Want to take a picture with your cellphone using the Zero Tube? Nocs has a smartphone adapter here that can do that.

I stuff the Tube into the included carry bag to ensure the lenses don’t scratch while carrying the scope in my backpack pocket. When I’m home I clean the outer lenses with the lens cloth that comes with the Zero Tube.

What Is a Monocular?

A monocular is like a small, hand-held telescope that you peer through using one eye, bringing faraway objects closer using internal lenses. The Zero Tube is Nocs Provisions’ smallest monocular, weighing 7.2 ounces and is 4.3 inches long and 1.73 inches wide. The Zoom Tube and Field Tube are two other monoculars made by Nocs Provisions. The Zero Tube has a magnification of 10, meaning it magnifies objects to appear 10 times closer than using just the naked eye. Twenty-five is the diameter in millimeters of the front, or objective, lens. The smaller size of the objective lens makes the Zero Tube compact and easier to carry but it also means the Zero Tube lets in less light than a larger lens. Because of its lens size the Zero Tubes focus is sharpest in bright daylight.

Nocs uses BaK4 (Barium Crown) prisms, which are efficient in capturing light. The dielectric and phase lens coatings increase light transmission and clarity, especially in low light.

Built for the Outdoors

The Zero Tube is at home on the trail. The outer shell is rugged, with raised ridges that ensure a solid grip. It’s waterproof, with an IPX7 rating, which means that it can withstand being submerged in three feet of water for 30 minutes. Nitrogen-filled chambers ward off internal fogging during fluctuating temperatures. And the Zero Tube has a lifetime warranty.

Good to Know

Warranty: The Zero Tube has a No-Matter-What lifetime warranty. Warranty and shipping information here.

In the Box: Woven wrist strap, microfiber pouch and lens-cleaning cloth.

Colors: Bone, off-piste, ultramarine, Audubon piping plover

Tripod Compatible: No. The Zero Tube is hand-held only.

Product Manual: Nocs has an essential user manual here.

Other Nocs Monoculars: The Zoom and Field tubes here.

Zero Tube Pros

Lightweight: At 7.2 ounces the Zero Tube rides lightly in my pack or pocket.

Rugged: The ridged exterior feels solid and provides a firm grip.

Carry Clip: Attaches to a belt, pack strap or coat pocket, keeping it within easy reach.

Carrying Pouch: Protects the Zero Tube while stowed in a pack or pocket.

Zero Tube Cons

No Lens Caps: The lenses are exposed, making it essential to pack in the provided microfiber pouch.

Low Light: Images lose some clarity in low light because of the small lenses.

Overall Value

The Zero Tube isn’t essential backcountry gear, but it sure is fun. And its low weight and small size make it easy to throw in a pack where it’s easy to reach. The $179.95 price is high for a monocular with 10 by 25 magnification, but if you’re someone who values lightweight gear, wants to scout the trail ahead or view wildlife at a distance, the Zero Tube can be a good choice.

Similar Monoculars

This product was donated for purpose of review.

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Overview: Gossamer Gear Vetta 20L

MSRP: $140
Weight: 14.5 ounces
Capacity: 20 liters

Fabric: 100D recycled robic nylon for the main body; 210D recycled robic nylon for the bottom. UHMWPE stretch mesh for the outer pockets. PFAS-free.

About the Vetta 20L Daypack

Gossamer Gear designed its Type II collection of packs for demanding adventures, and the Vetta is up to the challenge. It’s small and light, but capable of carrying everything I want for a rigorous day hike. Gossamer Gear uses UHMWPE fiber (also used in Dyneema) in the mesh pockets for its ultralight weight and strength.

Carrying Capacity

The Vetta’s main compartment swallows my raincoat and rain pants, a top layer, and other small gear I want firmly tucked away. The roll-top extension collar expands to give the pack 20 liters of inside storage in the main body, and closes with top straps or removable side compression straps.

The Vetta has a feature I love in Gossamer Gear packs — a zippered pocket on the top front of the pack for my wallet and a clip for securing my car keys. The pocket ensures that when I get back to my car I’m not digging deep to find my car keys. And it keeps my mind at ease on trail when I can easily check that my car key is still safely tucked away.

I also like that the strap buckles are large, and easy to see and connect, not reduced to a size that’s difficult to see and buckle.

The large, outside mesh pocket holds my lunch, water filter, first aid kit or anything else small.

The Vetta’s downside is that the two shallow mesh pockets on each side aren’t deep enough to hold thin Smartwater-style water bottles without them falling out. The slanted cut of the pockets lets water bottles slide out if I lean down to pick up something or while I’m taking the pack off.

So I’ve gone back to using Nalgene or similar-size water bottles that fit snugly inside the pockets and don’t fall out.

There’s also a water bladder pocket on the inside back of the main compartment with a hang loop and a slit for a hydration tube.

The stash pockets, one on each shoulder strap, are also small, and don’t hold much more than snacks, lip balm or hand sanitizer. They aren’t big enough to hold my phone, but Gossamer Gear has larger add-on shoulder strap pockets here.

Adjustable bottom and top stretch cords are good for storing trekking poles.

And inside the pack on the outside of the water bladder pocket is a pouch with zipper for stashing gear.

Comfort

The Vetta is a one-size-fits-all pack. I’m 5 feet, 10 inches and the pack fits me comfortably.

The shoulder straps have perforated foam cushioning and a foam back pad that doubles as a sit pad, a feature that Gossamer Gear puts in all its packs.

The sternum strap, with an integrated whistle, slides up and down for a custom fit.

The Vetta does not have a hipbelt, but the pack has attachment loops to add a Gossamer Gear minimalist Fastbelt.

Loops at the bottom of the shoulder straps that are good for resting arms by inserting thumbs instead of letting them hang have become standard on most Gossamer Gear backpacks.

Materials

The Vetta’s main body is made from PFAS-free 100D recycled robic nylon, a relatively low-cost fabric that helps keep the pack’s price down. The UHMWPE (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, an ingredient in Dyneema) stretch mesh used for the front and side pockets combines exceptional strength with abrasion and tear resistance.

Good to Know

It’s important to remember that the Vetta is a minimalist day pack, and the 20-liter capacity is geared toward ultralighters.

The shoulder strap and side pockets are small. The side mesh pockets aren’t deep enough to hold 1-liter water bottles without them falling out.

There’s no hip belt so the pack’s weight is squarely on the shoulders.

But smaller doesn’t mean skimping on features that I like such as the top zipper pocket, the removable sit pad and strap buckles large enough for me to see without putting on my glasses.

For someone who hasn’t reduced their gear to ultralight territory, Gossamer Gear’s Grit 28L pack, reviewed here, might be a good choice.

Vetta Pros

Ultralight: The Vetta weighs 14.5 ounces.

Stash Pockets: The slim top pocket that closes with a zipper is good for holding my car keys and wallet. Two small pockets on the shoulder straps hold small gear such as snacks, lip balm and hand sanitizer. And a pocket with zipper inside the pack keeps valuable gear safe.

Vetta Cons

Sizing and Fit: The Vetta comes in one size.

No Hipbelt: This may be a con for some people, but I don’t miss a hipbelt on the Vetta.

Shoulder Pockets: These are very small and don’t hold much gear. I can’t fit my phone inside them.

Side Mesh Pockets: Not deep enough to hold Smartwater-style 1-liter water bottles without them falling out.

Overall Value

Gossamer Gear uses durable robic fabric and a limited amount of Dyneema-like stretch mesh in the Vetta, keeping its $140 price tag well below the cost of packs made completely with Dyneema or Ultra fabrics. The Vetta’s price and minimalist features make it a solid choice for daylong adventures on trail .

Similar Day Packs

This product was donated for purpose of review.

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Overview: Zamberlan ExoTrail GTX

MSRP: $240 (on sale for $192)
Weight (per shoe): 12.7 ounces women’s, 14.5 ounces men’s
Lining: GORE-TEX
Outsole: Vibram Bayu with Megagrip
Stack Height: 34.7/24.7 for men’s and women’s shoes
Drop: 10 mm

About the ExoTrail GTX

Zamberlan’s new ExoTrail GTX are solid trail shoes with a firm sole under my feet. They’re lightweight and don’t weigh down my feet during miles on trail

The Helix lugs on the Vibram Bayu Megagrip outsole are deep enough to grip muddy trails while still providing good traction on rocks. And the lugs and outsole are good at shedding mud.

And as someone who has a perpetual black and blue big toe from stubbing it on rocks I especially appreciate the solid rubber toe rand that wraps over the front of the shoe because there’s a lot of protection there.

Zamberlan uses an EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) foam midsole, commonly used in trail runners and other athletic shoes, to absorb the pounding from rocky and rugged trails. I can feel the cushion when I’m hopping rock to rock.

The shoes’ uppers are breathable mesh with GORE-TEX water protection, and the inner membrane wraps comfortably around my feet. My feet stayed dry while intentionally testing the shoes in shallow water but I wasn’t able to give them a challenging test in a heavy rain.

Comfort

The ExtoTrail are best for wide feet, and Zamberlan has a size chart here. Zamberlan advises that it may be best to size down a half size for a good fit, but I found that a size 12 shoe was a good fit for my size 12 feet. Although the shoes were a bit loose on my feet, the fit wasn’t sloppy. I feel as though a size 11 ½ would be too tight.

There’s plenty of cushioning with a stack height of 34.7/24.7mm, and the 10mm heel-to-toe drop is what I need for my flat feet. Low-drop shoes don’t give me enough support for my flat feet.

The solid platform is stable on trail and my feet land solidly, without any play.

At 12.7 ounces per shoe, the ExoTrail are light enough that I can move easily on any kind of trail, especially rock hopping.

The GORE-TEX uppers breathe well on cool days, but when the temperature hit 70 my feet were hot inside the shoes.

After miles on the trail my feet feel good, with no hot spots or blisters.

Good to Know

Colors: Gray-denim, sepia/orange, black/orange

Sustainability: The mesh, laces, and footbeds use recycled material.

Replacement Insoles: Zamberlan sells replacement insoles for their shoes, found here.

The Zamberlan Story

Giuseppe and Maria Zamberlan started making shoes in Italy in 1929, and the company continues today under the guidance of brother and sister Marco and Maria, the third generation of the Zamberlan family.

Although some shoes are made overseas, the company makes its most traditional and prestigious models in Italy, in the same factory opened by Giuseppe Zamberlan nearly 90 years ago.

ExoTrail GTX Pros

Grip: Good performance on wet rocks and through mud.
Weight: Lightweight for a mid-cut shoe.
GORE-TEX: Good at keeping water out on slightly wet trails.

ExoTrail GTX Cons

GORE-TEX: Once water gets inside the Gore-Tex lining the inside doesn’t dry quickly. And my feet got hot when the temperature reached 70.

Overall Value

The ExoTrail are on sale for $192, down 20 percent from their original cost of $240, making them an attractive purchase for a shoe made by a company with a reputation for quality and durable footwear.

Similar Hiking Shoes

This product was donated for purpose of review.

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Overview: Sea to Summit Ultralight XR

MSRP: $139, small; $149, regular; $169, large

Weight, just the pad: 13.8 ounces for the short; 14.6 ounces for the regular; 18.7 ounces for the large

Inflated Thickness: 2.6 inches

Temperature Rating: 3.6 R-value

Insulation: ThermalCore

Fabric: Hybrid 30/40D nylon and Ultrafresh-treated TPU laminate

About the Ultralight XR

The Ultralight XR—14.6 ounces for a regular size—is a solid ultralight air pad. And the 3.6 R-value makes it a good choice for three-season backpacking.

But the pad’s downside may be its 2.6-inch thickness, which doesn’t leave much space for people like me who prefer a softer, slightly deflated pad to a firm one. My first night using the pad I inflated it fully and didn’t like how firm it is. But after deflating the pad slightly I found an inflation level that felt comfortable and didn’t leave me sinking to the ground. I weigh 165 pounds and someone heavier than me might not find the same comfort level.

The pad’s comfort comes from the 151 Air Sprung Cells that give the pad an egg crate look while reducing pressure points to your body. I’m a side sleeper and I didn’t experience the cramping that I get on pads with vertical tubes.

The pad is a roomy 21.5 inches wide at the head, slightly wider than similar weight pads that are 20 to 20.5 inches wide at the head.

Sea to Summit uses the ASTM R-value test, an industry standard for determining temperature compatibility. The XR uses ThermalCore Insulation inside the pad to achieve its 3.6 R-value, which is good for temperatures as low as 30F.

And the pad isn’t noisy, no matter how much I toss and turn.

The XR is a hybrid 30/40D nylon and liquid-extruded TPU laminate, a process that strengthens the pad’s fabric and gives it a durable feel. The XR’s 30/40D nylon is a durable fabric thickness, comparable to other pads in its class.

Sea to Summit uses its XPRESS Valve to inflate and deflate the pad, as well as fine-tune the pad’s thickness. The valve is flush with the pad, which makes it easier to roll up the pad to stuff inside the included stuff sack.

And rather than include a separate inflator sack, Sea to Summit designed the stuff sack to expand and become an inflator sack.

Good to Know

Pad Upgrade: The Ultralight XR is an upgrade of Sea to Summit’s Ultralight Air sleeping pad. The Ultralight Air’s R-value is 3.1, suitable for warmer weather camping. And it’s a very slim 2 inches thick and weighs 16.9 ounces for a regular pad. The improved R-value, slightly thicker depth and 2-ounce weight savings make the XR a more versatile and comfortable pad.

Durability: The XR’s 30/40D hybrid nylon has a beefy feel to it, which should provide durability in the backcountry. Still, despite a pad’s nylon thickness, I’m careful to avoid shelter nails or sharp rocks when laying out my pad.

What You Get: Combined pump and stuff sack, repair kit, and PillowLock patches.

Packability: The Ultralight XR rolls up to about the size of a Nalgene bottle.

Warranty: Sea to Summit guarantees its products against manufacturing defects in materials or workmanship for the lifetime of the product.

Ultralight XR Pros

Ultralight: The XR regular is 14.6 ounces and packs small.

Comfort: The AirSprung Cells provide a cushy pad for side sleepers.

Pump Sack: The sack is integrated with the stuff sack, providing a larger volume of air per sack fill.

Inflation Valve: The XPRESS Valve is flush with the pad, making it easy to roll up and put in a stuff sack.

Extras: The PillowLock patches included with the XR secure a pillow to the pad.

Ultralight XR Cons

Thinner Pad: The XR is 2.6 inches thick, nearly a half-inch thinner than comparable pads, and that thin design makes it essential to clear ground debris and avoid rocks that could poke up through the pad. But with the right inflation and careful site selection the pad is comfortable and I don’t sink into the ground.

Overall Value

The Ultralight XR fits comfortably in the ultralight range, with an R-value comparable to similar pads. The pad is thin, but the AirSprung Cells give the XR a cushy feel for a comfortable night’s sleep. And the pad’s price—$139 for a small, $149 for a regular, and $169 for a long—is significantly lower than other pads in its category.

Similar Air Pads

Therm-A-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT

MSRP: $209.95, regular

Thickness: 3 inches

R-value: 4.5

Weight: 13 ounces, regular

Exped Ultra 3R

MSRP: $169.95, regular

Thickness: 3.5 inches

R-value: 3.2

Weight: 16, ounces, medium

Big Agnes Zoom UL

MSRP: $199.95, regular

Thickness: 3.5 inches

R-value: 4.3

Weight: 14 ounces, regular

Nemo Tensor Trail Ultralight Insulated

MSRP: $199.95, regular

Thickness: 3.5 inches

R-value: 2.8

Weight: 13.9 ounces, regular

This product was donated for purpose of review.

The post Sea to Summit Ultralight XR Sleeping Pad Review appeared first on Backpacking Routes.

Overview: PAKA Mayu

About the PAKA Mayu

PAKA continues adding to its collection of alpaca garments with the Mayu, an insulated puffy jacket that uses PAKAFILL, an alpaca-polyester blend, as insulation for the ultralight nylon shell coat.

The coat—9.2 ounces for a men’s medium—rides light on my back, while the shell resists wind and water. I’ve worn it in 20F temperatures with only a midweight base layer underneath and in above freezing temperatures with only a short-sleeve shirt. I wore it snowshoeing at 27F with a short-sleeve crew underneath and had to put on a lighter outer layer because I got too hot.

The warmth to weight ratio is high, with the Mayu providing more warmth than I expected for such a thin, lightweight coat.

PAKA rates the Mayu for temperatures ranging from 30 F to 65F. I think I would be very warm if I wore the Mayu in 60F temperatures.

The shell resists water and the PAKAFILL insulation inside provides warmth even if it gets wet, unlike down, which loses its insulating properties when wet. And the alpaca insulation is anti-bacterial and odor-resistant, features that make alpaca products popular.

The shell and lining are made from recycled nylon and do not include any intentionally added PFAS, often called “forever chemicals” because of their persistence in the environment and human body.

The kissing welt zipper has padded enclosures at the top to cushion the zipper at the neck, and a small storm flap runs inside the zipper from top to bottom to keep out cold air, especially on windy days. I appreciate the cushioned fabric (sometimes called a zipper garage) that envelopes the zipper when the coat is snug against my neck in cold weather.

Stretchy cuffs keep the sleeves close to my wrists, and expand enough to slip a thin pair of liner gloves underneath.

And on really cold days when the wind is blowing a cord pulls the hem close to my body, further sealing the coat.

The two outer zip pockets have room for lightweight gloves and hat, snacks, or my phone. An inner zip pocket has room for more small gear like lip balm and my phone.

And the coat can stuff inside the inner pocket, making it compact for carrying inside a pack. The coat stuffed into the pocket can also be a pillow at night inside my sleeping bag.

About the PAKAFILL Insulation

PAKAFILL insulation, which won an Outdoor Retailer Innovation Award in 2023, is made of 50 percent alpaca and 50 percent recycled polyester. The polyester, when blended with alpaca fibers, creates a sort of “scaffold” that gives the insulation a structure and increases durability.

Alpaca’s hollow fibers create natural insulation, trapping body heat inside the coat while keeping cold air out.

Those hollow alpaca fibers help thermoregulate my body by keeping it at a consistent temperature whether the surrounding air is hot or cold.

The IDFL Laboratory and Institute, which tests textiles, natural filling, and synthetic filling materials, gives PAKAFILL a 2.59 thermal CLO value, which means the insulation provides warmth below freezing.

Alpaca fibers are naturally hydrophobic and repel water while wicking moisture—whether it’s rain or snow—away from the skin, the properties that make alpaca anti-bacterial and odor-resistant.

PAKA says the alpaca fiber is fully traceable back to the farms in the Andes where it is sourced.

Good to Know

What’s in a Name: Among the Andean highland natives living from Ecuador to Bolivia, Mayu means river, reflecting the coat’s purpose to flow lightly, adapt to nature, and keep moving.

Andean Heritage: PAKA honors the heritage of the Peruvian farmers and artisans who work for the company with small touches on each garment. The Mayu zipper pull is a small Chakana (a Peruvian cultural symbol) and an Inca-inspired pattern is imprinted on one of the coat’s sleeves.

Cleaning the Mayu: PAKA recommends turning the Mayu inside out to wash, using cold water and a washing machine’s delicate cycle. Lay flat to dry.

Options: The Mayu is available as a vest.

Colors: Burgundy, black, fossil

Sizes: Small to XXL for a men’s coat, XS to XXL for a women’s coat. PAKA has a size chart here.

The PAKA Story

PAKA’s origins date from 2015 when company founder Kris Cody bought a locally made alpaca sweater while traveling in Peru. Impressed by the use of alpaca in clothing, he began raising money to start PAKA, and in 2017 the company began selling the made-in-Peru Hoodie, an alpaca sweater that’s just as comfortable and warm on the trail as at home. The company has gone on to add thermal under layers, socks, jackets and hoodies.

Since that start PAKA has returned 1 percent of its annual revenues to the Peruvian communities that produce PAKA’s clothing.

In its 2025 impact report, PAKA says it supports 300-plus Quechua women who weave the garments and more than 7,300 Alpaquero—alpaca farmers—and their families.

PAKA also partnered with the nonprofit Peruvian Hearts to create the PAKA Scholars initiative, which provided full university scholarships for 15 Peruvian young women in 2025.

On another level the PAKA Entrepreneurial Fund supports scholars who dream of starting their own businesses, contributing to local economic growth and community development.

PAKA Mayu Pros

Lightweight: At 9.2 ounces for a men’s medium, the Mayu’s weight rivals other big name synthetic puffy jackets.
Warmth: Extremely warm for its weight, and comfortable below freezing with a warm base layer underneath.
Wind Resistance: Mayu’s shell cuts a cold wind.
Pockets: The two outside and one inside pocket provide plenty of storage space.
Sustainable: PAKA’s alpaca fibers can be traced back to the farms where they originated.

PAKA Mayu Cons

No Hood: The Mayu is not available with a hood, and it would be nice to have the choice

Overall Value

The PAKA Mayu is a warm, lightweight coat that’s as fashionable while walking around town as it is comfortable in the mountains. My first look at the thin layers of PAKAFILL insulation and the coat’s light weight led me to doubt its warmth. I was wrong. The coat is amazingly warm for its weight, and a medium coat on my 5-foot, 10-inch frame has enough room underneath to add a mid- or heavyweight base layer for temperatures in the 20s and below. The $249 price puts the Mayu at the lower end of similar puffy coats.

Similar Hoodies

This product was donated for purpose of review.

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Overview: Point6 Top and Bottom Midweight Base Layers

About the Point6 Merino Base Layers

The Point6 Merino wool top and bottom have become my go-to layers as the weather turns cold. The top alone is good for moderate temperatures and as a layer underneath a warm coat when the temperature drops. I wear the bottoms under pants, as a lone layer in my sleeping bag, or as an outer layer with shorts over them.

The flatlock seams rest comfortably against my skin, and the fabric is the smoothest wool garment I’ve worn. There’s no itch and roughness against my skin.

I’m 5 feet, 10 inches and weigh 165ish and wear a medium size, form-fitting top and bottom. The sleeves have thumb loops to keep them in place when putting on an outer layer.

The bottoms have an elastic waist band that keeps them from sagging downward and a traditional fly slit.

Both garments have UPF +50 for sun protection if they’re worn as outer layers, especially if there is sun-reflecting snow on the ground. The sleeves extend almost to my knuckles, held in place by the thumb loops, providing extra sun protection.

Merino Wool’s Appeal

Merino wool is in a class by itself for insulating layers. The wool is breathable, and wicks moisture and sweat away from my body, keeping me warm with base layers in cold weather and cool with warm-weather running clothes. And Merino has a reputation for providing years of use without picking up a dirt bag smell.

Point6 uses the centripetal force of compact spinning to create a tighter yarn strand that it says is 25% stronger than traditional ring spun yarn. Compact spinning also reduces fabric pilling.

About Point6

Patty and Peter Duke began their Merino wool journey when they founded SmartWool in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, in 1994. They moved on from Smartwool in the early 2000s and started Point6, remaining in Steamboat Springs, where they work and play on the ski slopes and in the mountains. Their merino wool is 100% biodegradable and they take steps to minimize their footprint on the Earth by demanding strict environmental practices in their factories.

The company’s name refers to keeping body temperature at the optimal 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit.

Point 6 has a chart here to determine the clothing size that fits.

Point6 Layers Pros

Simple and Light: The Point6 midweight top and bottom base layers are a solid base layer.

Comfort: The Merino wool is the smoothest, most comfortable wool clothing that I’ve worn.

Warmth: Good for a base layer in low temperatures and as a standalone layer when the temperature climbs.

Thumb Loops: The red thumb loops inside the black top make them easy to see, saving me from a frustrating search for the loops when putting on another layer. The same goes for the red hang loops on the top and bottom, and the back label on the top layer.

Point6 Layers Cons

None: There isn’t anything I don’t like about the Point6 midweight base layers.

Overall Value

The Point6 midweight long-sleeve crew and bottom are a good value at $115 each, and an even better value at their current on-sale price of $69. They are comfortable layers that I use as my primary base layer, wearing them alone in moderate temperatures and underneath another layer when the temperature plunges below freezing.

Similar Merino Wool Base Layers

This product was donated for purpose of review.

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Overview: Gossamer Gear LT5 Trekking Poles

About the Gossamer Gear LT5 Trekking Poles

The LT5s are trail-tested trekking poles that combine a sturdy grip on the trail with ultralight performance. The carbon fiber poles weigh 4.9 ounces each, among the lightest trekking poles available, making them a pleasure to use.

LT5 Performance

I ask a lot of my trekking poles. I want to push down on them while climbing a steep trail. I lean on them to stay steady and slow while picking my way down a leaf-covered trail. And I’m happy to say that the Gossamer Gear LT5 poles have been a champ for me while navigating those conditions.

Rock-strewn trails are another gauntlet for trekking poles. I’ve hiked on many trails that are covered with rocks—I live in New England, after all—and the LT5 poles have helped me stay up and moving. I do take care not to keep moving forward if one of my poles gets caught between rocks because putting lateral pressure on carbon fiber poles is their weak spot. Unlike aluminum poles, carbon fiber poles don’t bend. They break.

Because of that weakness carbon fiber poles are best for established trails, not bushwhacking or crossing scree-filled slopes.

But I’ve put countless miles on carbon fiber poles in some of the worst New England trail conditions without breaking them, and I expect to get the same kind of long use from the LT5 poles.

Comfort

It’s evident when picking up the LT5s for the first time that they’re light. Super light. At 4.9 ounces per pole they’re among the lightest trekking poles available.

The EVA foam grips are soft and are a good fit for the contours of my hands, and my hands are comfortable holding the grips for miles of trail.

The wrist straps are easy to adjust by pulling up on them, and downward pressure keeps the straps stable. The thin straps are comfortable and don’t dig into my hands.

Construction

The LT5s are three-section poles that collapse to 23.5 inches and are easy to fit into a pack or strap on the outside.

Gossamer Gear uses old-style twist locks to keep the poles extended at the length I want, up to a maximum of 51 inches. The twist locks are easy to use and when tightened don’t slip during miles of use.

The poles come with detachable rubber tips and small baskets. The rubber tips (.24 ounces each) are good for walking on solid, mostly flat surfaces and for protecting the tips when the poles are stowed inside or outside a pack. And the baskets (.31 ounces each) can keep the poles from sliding into small openings between rocks and getting stuck. For that reason Gossamer Gear recommends using the baskets at all times.

Carbon fiber poles dominate the trekking pole market, and with good reason. Carbon fiber is stiffer, stronger and lighter than aluminum. But carbon fiber poles’ downside is that they snap under lateral pressure rather than bending. This can than be a problem if you’re left with one usable pole on a steep, rocky trail or carrying a trekking-pole shelter. Aluminum poles are more durable and bend under pressure, making them hard to render useless.

Good to Know

Warranty: Gossamer Gear’s warranty covers products it sells, for the purchaser only, to be free from manufacturing defects within one year of the purchase date. Gossamer Gear does not consider a broken pole a manufacturing defect.

Beyond the Trail: Once you’re at camp, don’t put aside your trekking poles. Gossamer Gear has these tips for life off the trail.

LT5 Pros

Ultralight: 4.9 ounces for each pole is an impressively low weight for trekking poles.
Easy to Adjust: The twist locks are easy to adjust, and don’t slip over miles of trail.
Sturdy: The poles support all my weight as I jump down from rocks on trail.
EVA Foam Grips: The grips are soft and comfortable.
Spare Parts: Replacement pole sections, baskets and pole tips can be ordered at
Gossamer Gear.

LT5 Cons

Breakable: Carbon fiber poles can snap, causing problems for hikers carrying a trekking pole tent or tarp.
Twist-Lock Adjustment: The poles are not as easy to adjust as flip-lock poles.
Price: The $195 tag puts the LT5s at the upper end of prices for carbon fiber poles.
Longevity: Because the poles are so light Gossamer Gear says they may not last as long as heavier poles.

Overall Value

The Gossamer Gear LT5 trekking poles’ $195 price nudges the upper boundary for carbon trekking poles. They aren’t the most expensive, but they’re also miles above the price for low-budget carbon poles. I’ve used middle of the road aluminum poles and inexpensive carbon poles for years and the LT5s impress me in a way none of my other poles do. The price is high, but for weight, comfort and ease of use the LT5 poles stand out as a solid performer.

Similar Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles

Zpacks Carbon Fiber
MSRP: $59.95 per pole ($119.90 for two)
Weight: 7.2 ounces per pole, foam grip; 7.7 ounces per pole, cork grip

Hiker Hunger Carbon Fiber
MSRP: $125
Weight: 7.35 ounces per pole

LEKI Makalu FX
MSRP: $229.95
Weight: 8.7 ounces per pole

Durston Ice Line
MSRP: $199
Weight: 4.7 ounces per pole, strapless; 5.1 ounces per pole, with straps

This product was donated for purpose of review.

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Overview: Outdoor Vitals Shadowlight Carbon 60

MSRP: $274.97, $247.47 for members

Weight: 31.5 ounces for a medium pack and medium hip belt

Capacity: 49 liters for the pack body, 15 liters for the outside pockets

Fabric: Robic nylon for the main body and pockets, UltraStretch for the vertical mesh pockets. PFAS free.

About the Outdoor Vitals Shadowlight Carbon 60

The outside pockets sold me on the updated Shadowlight. I can stash rain gear, lunch, water filter, water bottle, navigation aids, phone, hat and gloves, snack, and outer clothing in the outside pockets, meaning I don’t have to dig into my pack hunting for gear during the day. And if I’ve filled the pockets there’s a unique front of pack zipper that lets me easily access gear inside.

Outdoor Vitals Carbon 60 Carrying Capacity

The top-loading main compartment is 49 liters, a good size for multi-day trips. But it’s the six outer pockets and two large hip-belt pockets—good for 15 liters of storage capacity—that make this pack stand out.

I’ve been frustrated as hip belt pockets seem to get smaller, without enough space to hold my phone, so I was happy to find that I can fit my phone and two snack bars in one pocket. Both pockets have a key clip.

Two expandable pockets attached to the side of the pack above the hip belt hold my water filter and warm hat and gloves tucked into a plastic bag. The pocket openings stretch to get gear inside and then contract to hold the gear in place. Both pockets can hold two one-liter bottles, and I am able to get a bottle out of the pocket but like every pack I’ve worn I can’t get the bottle back inside the pocket. I carry only one thin liter-size water bottle and found that it tips to the side in the pocket, making the pack ride lopsided.

So I put my water bottle, along with my lunch, inside one of the two deep and narrow stretch pockets that run vertically on the outside of the pack. I was surprised to find that the pockets expand enough that I can easily fit my raincoat and rain pants inside one of the pockets.

The top two pockets are smaller than the bottom ones, and I put my navigation aids inside one of them and anything else I want easy access to in the other. The pockets seal with a stretch cord.

The final easy-to-reach storage is the long zipper that opens the front of the pack, which seems to be a love it or hate it accessory. Count me in the love it category.

I use the zipper access to reach extra trail clothing, lunch or anything else I want quick access to. The zipper is hard to open and close if the pack is stuffed and bulging, but I pack light enough that access is easy. All of my gear inside is in separate waterproof bags so moisture through the zipper isn’t an issue, although I didn’t experience any during days of moderate rain. If I used a plastic trash bag to store all my gear inside, I could still put gear in a waterproof bag outside the trash bag and access it through the zipper opening.

All of the pocket cords and zippers use reflective cords to make them easy to see in the dark.

The four outside storage pockets have drain holes so water doesn’t accumulate in the pockets. Over six days on the Long Trail in Vermont when 2 inches of rain fell I did not have any problems with water building up in the pockets.

The Shadowlight also has an inside removable water bladder bag, with an opening in the back of the pack for a water tube.

The Shadowlight is a roll-top bag, with the top of the bag sealed by buckles. The pack does not have side buckles to attach the top straps for compression because of the top pockets. A Y-strap compresses the top of the pack.

The shoulder straps do not have daisy chains to hang gear such as an inReach, but an external pouch with Velcro straps can connect to the shoulder strap.

The pack also has external lashing loops.

What can I fit inside the pack?

My tent, a BearVault 450 bear can, sleeping bag, clothes, electronic gear and first aid kit. Everything else goes in the outside pockets.

Outdoor Vitals Shadowlight Carbon 60 Comfort

The pack is very comfortable carrying 25 pounds, the top weight that I like to carry. Outdoor Vitals says the pack can carry a maximum of 40 pounds.

The Shadowlight comes in three sizes: short, regular and tall. The hip belt comes in five sizes: extra small, small, medium, large and extra large. I’m 5 feet, 10 inches tall and 160ish pounds, and the regular pack and medium hip belt are good fits for me.

The CARBONFLEX suspension system has two carbon fiber frame stays, a redesigned foam back panel with cutouts, and a hip belt with dual buckle straps. The hip belt is attached to the pack with Velcro and can be removed. The foam pad used in the harness cannot be removed.

The result is a comfortable carry with the weight spread across my hips and shoulders. Load lifters keep the pack from pulling against my back.

I carried a bear can comfortably, but did put clothing between the bear can and the pack frame for extra padding. I do the same with every pack when I carry a bear can.

I found that if I tightened the shoulder straps too closely to my body I could feel one of the frame stays pressing into my back, but loosening the shoulder strap solved this.

Pack Material

Outdoor Vitals uses 100D Robic nylon with 200D Spectra ripstop for the pack’s main body and 210D Robic nylon with 400D Spectra ripstop for the bottom panel. All are rugged materials that should last for years.

The long mesh pockets on the front of the pack are made with UltraStretch.

The fabric has a water resistance rating of 1500 mm HH, meaning it should be good for repelling light to moderate rain. I hiked for several days in those conditions and my gear inside the pack stayed dry.

Good to Know

Outdoor Vitals’ warranty covers manufacturing and workmanship defects for the expected lifespan of its products. More information about the warranty and gear returns can be found here.

The sternum strap does not have a whistle, something that has become ubiquitous for backpacks. I have never used it, but I can see that it has a purpose. It’s not a deal breaker with this pack.

Outdoor Vitals members get a deal on gear pricing, free shipping and other perks. More information can be found here.

Shadowlight Carbon 60 Pros

Lightweight: 31.5 ounces for the pack and frame, and light on my back.

Comfort: The carbon stays and foam back pad provide a comfortable carry.

Frame and Hip Belt Sizes: The three frame sizes and five hip belt sizes make it easy to get a good fit, and to mix different frame and hip belt sizes.

External Pockets: The eight external pockets, including the two hip belt pockets, provide enough space that I can carry all my gear for the trail in them during the day and don’t have to dig through the pack looking for lunch or my hat and gloves.

Shadowlight Carbon 60 Cons

No Side Compression: There’s no option to use the top closure straps for side compression.

No Shoulder Daisy Chains: External pockets with Velcro straps can be attached to the shoulder straps but there are no individual rings to attach small gear such as an inReach.

Overall Value

The Shadowlight Carbon 60 is a well-thought-out pack that rides comfortably on my back, and is a strong contender among packs in the two-pound range. I like the outside pockets that let me access gear I need while on the trail without digging through my pack to find it. The price falls within the range of other packs made of similar materials and of a similar size. And an Outdoor Vitals membership pushes the price even lower.

Similar Backpacks

This product was donated for purpose of review.

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Overview: PAKA Hoodie

MSRP: $149
Fabric: 65% Royal Alpaca fiber, 35% recycled nylon
Weight: 15.5 ounces

About the PAKA Hoodie

The Hoodie started it all for PAKA in the Peruvian mountains, where local women weave alpaca into sweaters, hoodies, socks and hats. The Hoodie is next-to-skin soft and is good at blocking wind. I’ve worn it on cold days and nights on Vermont’s Long Trail and on day hikes closer to home. It’s a versatile midweight top good as an outer layer in moderate temperatures and under a heavier layer in cold weather.

Hoodie Features

Materials: The Hoodie’s strength is the material’s alpaca/nylon blend that’s good at wicking and resisting moisture.

Comfort: I can wear the Hoodie as a first layer against my skin, with flatlock seams that don’t chafe and fabric that doesn’t itch. Or I can pull it on over a light layer for more warmth.

Moisture Management: Alpaca fiber is naturally water-resistant and highly breathable, and tolerates sprinkles of rain.

Odor Resistance: Sweat passes through the breathable alpaca fiber and away from my body. I’ve worn it over and over for outdoor activities without washing and have yet to notice a dirtbag smell.

Warmth: When the temperature is in the 50s and above I wear the Hoodie over a lightweight layer. In lower temperatures I put a layer over the Hoodie, usually a light shell that holds in heat.

The Hood: The hood fits loosely on my head, without a drawstring to close it tight. The neck opening is large and comfortable

Pockets: None.

Fit: I’m 5 feet, 10 inches, 160ish, and a size medium is a good fit for me. PAKA has a fit guide to determine your size.

Cleaning: PAKA says hand washing with cold water is best, but if washing in a machine set it at delicate with cold water. Lay the Hoodie flat to dry.

About PAKA:. The company sells a wide range of clothing made sustainably and ethically, woven by more than 300 Peruvian artisans using Peruvian alpaca fur. 1% of sales supports regenerative agriculture and farming families and another 1% funds the education of young Peruvian women. Each woman signs the clothing she makes; my Hoodie was signed by Katherine A. Read here for more about PAKA’s story.

Hoodie Pros

Simple and Light: The Hoodie is a lightweight layer without frills.

Comfort: Soft against my skin with no itch or chafe.

Warmth: I wear the Hoodie as a base layer in low temperatures and as an outer layer when the temperature climbs.

Peruvian Sourced and Made: PAKA clothing is sourced and woven in Peru, and PAKA’s sales help support Peruvian families.

Hoodie Cons

Collar: The loose open neck is easy to slip over my head, but lets in cold air when it’s windy.

Overall Value

The Hoodie is a versatile layer that’s soft and comfortable, and good for wearing in a range of temperatures. I wear it for everyday and on-trail use, making it more than clothing that I leave in my closet when I’m not on trail. The price is on the low end of comparable natural fiber Hoodies, making it a good dollarwise choice.

Similar Hoodies

Smartwool Waffle Henley Hoodie
MSRP: $125
Material: Merino and cotton

Ibex Indie Hoodie
MSRP: $170
Material: Merino wool

Arc’teryx Delta Pullover Hoody
MSRP: $180
Material: Fleece

This product was donated for purpose of review.

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