Gear Reviews - GenX Backpackers

GenX Backpackers

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Gear Reviews

In depth, first hand gear reviews by real backpackers.

Xmid Footprint Quest

Xmid Footprint Quest

When I was making my transition from traditional to lightweight backpacking in 2020/2021, I learned about trekking pole tents. (Ok, I'll admit it: it was YouTube videos.) Nifty idea I thought, but $700 for a tent was ridiculous - no way was I buying anything made of

The quest for the ultimate tent stake

The quest for the ultimate tent stake

When you become a UL gram weenie, you start looking at how much things weigh and for ways to eliminate unnecessary items, find dual/multi-use items, or find lighter items. In that light, I've kind of been obsessed for a couple years with how much tent stakes weigh.

Sleep System Evolution

Sleep System Evolution

Quilts/sleeping bags are one of the "big 4" items - those 4 items that most impact the weight and cost of most people's backpacking kit. Over time I have evolved my sleep system components, upgrading to get better/lighter versions. Today I have multiple quilts

Rationalizing Backpacks - Why do I have so many?

Rationalizing Backpacks - Why do I have so many?

The simple answer is because I'm a gear geek who is at a point in life where I have the financial means to spend on my hobbies. The longer answer is a bit more nuanced. I currently have four backpacking packs. Each serves a different purpose. Could I

In Search of the Perfect Pump Sack

In Search of the Perfect Pump Sack

I HATE inflating my sleeping pads by blowing into them. I hate seeing condensed water vapor clinging to the inside walls - where I can't easily get it out - where it adds weight (!), and breeds mold and other nasties. Thankfully most pad manufacturers agree with me and

Super Duper Ultra Light!

Super Duper Ultra Light!

Some time back I read this article about Timmermade's SUL 1.5 down puffy. I have the Timmermade Super Ultralight (SUL) 0.75, and like it, but find it a bit too UL for me - i.e. not as warm as I would hope. When I read

Jetboil Stash Review

Jetboil Stash Review

Like many other GenXers, I buy stuff. Lots of stuff. I consider it my duty to keep the economy moving. As a result, I recently made several purchases. First, a Jetboil Stash and second, a Soto Windmaster stove. I have officially stimulated the economy but now it is time to

Wildland Coffee Review

Wildland Coffee Review

On January 5, 2022 the founder of Wildland Coffee Zach Frantz posted the following on the Texas Hiking Community Facebook group: "I am the founder of Wildland Coffee and we put delicious coffee into tea bags. No more mess and fuss of french presses or pour overs while you

Timmermade Sleep System (Coati Quilt, Overquilt, and Waterbear) Review

Timmermade Sleep System (Coati Quilt, Overquilt, and Waterbear) Review

Timmermade (Timmermade – Handmade Outdoor Gear) is a cottage boutique for hand-made custom ultralight backpacking gear. I ordered a 20-degree Coati quilt from them in October of 2021 to upgrade my Enlightened Equipment 20 degree Revelation. While I have enjoyed the EE quilt, I had read about the almost mythical qualities

Lone Star Hiking Trail Breakdown Stream!

Lone Star Hiking Trail Breakdown Stream!

Just four LSHT hikers talking about the trail and also talking shop! Join Chris, Rob, Brian, and Brekken for way too much chatter about backpacking stuff!