Fastpacking Super Ultralight Gear List | 5 Pound 2023
November 18, 2023 – For challenging, high-mileage adventures, we recommend the following 5 pound super ultralight fastpacking gear list. This kit is grounded in decades of super ultralight experience, and has been optimized for practicality, functionality, and minimalism. You’ll hike faster and farther with purpose-driven this 5 lb super ultralight kit, and without sacrificing warmth, comfort, or functionality.
The total base weight of this fastpacking gear list is currently 5.99 lbs. Yes, we know that rounds to six, but trust us, the difference in user-experience between a five pound and six pound kit is massive. We prioritize user-friendly, three-season-compatible gear. This is not a hypothetical exercise in carrying the least amount of weight possible This is what we actually want to use, and we feel safe and comfortable in doing so. Jump ahead ahead to view the list in table format.
Super Ultralight Benefits & How to Achieve Them
The benefits of fastpacking super ultralight are many. With less weight to carry, you will hike faster and more efficiently. It mimics being in phenomenally good endurance shape. Your backpack itself will feel less cluttered, easier to pack, and more comfortable on your shoulders. Super ultralight fastpacking allows you to experience more joy and less discomfort.
But to achieve this requires a paradigm shift. It means sacrificing all non-critical luxuries in exchange for the luxury of how good it feels to hike with super ultralight gear. And it requires a specialized set of equipment which nearly always includes a frameless pack, a quilt, and a trekking pole-supported shelter. For more super ultralight fastpacking tips and tricks, read about ultralight techniques, or get the scoop on Alan’s infamous 102 mile, 3-day AT section hike with a total pack weight of 10 lbs (including food).
Shop more for more backpacks in our guide to the best fastpacking packs. Want to save weight without cutting all of the luxuries? Check out our 9lb full comfort ultralight gear list. You make Adventure Alan & Co possible. When purchasing through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. Here’s why you can trust us.
Top Picks: Fastpacking Super Ultralight Gear
Zpacks Nero Ultra 38 Backpack
Zpacks Nero Ultra 38L Backpack
10.2 | $249
Zpacks Nero Ultra 38 is the perfect vessel for carrying a super ultralight kit. Constructed with waterproof and tough-as-nails Challenge Ultra fabric, the base pack is frameless, hipbelt-less, and weighs only 10.2 oz when fully stripped down. Yet it is still very comfortable and well-featured with 2.75″ wide shoulder straps, a foam sit pad back panel, and a full-sized set of side and rear external pockets. This fastpacking pack has proven very effective for us in managing base weights under ten pounds.
Nashville Packs Cutaway
15.3 oz | $342
Based on our research, Nashville Packs Cutaway with Hybrid Vest Straps is one of, if not the, lightest weight fastpack with a running vest harness (shop now). What’s more, it’s waterproof and has voluminous external storage thanks to the massive, continuous hybrid-paneled outer pocket and shoulder strap pockets. This is an exceptionally sweet backpack. Read more in our Nashville Packs Cutaway review.
Enlightened Equipment Enigma 30
Enlightened Equipment Enigma 30
15.4 oz | $400
Quilts are the most effective way to sleep in the backcountry, and the Enlightened Equipment Enigma 30 with 950 fill power down and 7d nylon is the single best tool for minimizing total weight while maximizing warmth-to-weight. It is our pick for best quilt to use in a super ultralight fastpacking kit. The innovative U-shaped continuous baffle help prevent cold spots. A-grade materials, and a flawless minimalist design make this a near perfect quilt.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad
13 oz | $210
Building on excellence, the new for 2023 Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT (shop now) delivers a higher R-Value (4.5 vs 4.2), an extra half inch of thickness (3″ vs 2.5″), and a quieter and less crinkly user-experience. The stats show this is the highest performance sleeping pad on the market. Until proven otherwise, the NXT is now our go-to sleeping pad. Consider saving an ounce by switching to the short, 66 oz length! Read more in our full-length Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Review.
Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp
Solo Shelter Option
Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp
6.1 oz | $349
For constructing a fastpacking super ultralight solo kit, we recommend the Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp. It’s constructed with Dyneema fabric and weighs only 6.1 oz. Yet the pyramid shape is sturdy, protective, and fully enclosed, unlike a flat tarp. Alan’s colleague used this shelter to great effect on an all-guides cross country trip in Alaska.
Zpacks Offset Duo
19.7 oz | $769
The Zpacks Offset Duo Tent is the best and most spacious 2P Zpacks brand tent to-date, and one of the very best trekking pole supported tents on the entire market. Offset Duo builds on the success of Zpacks’ flagship Duplex design by increasing its length and width, adding vents, zippered storm doors, magnetic roll-ups, a 32″ end strut, and ingeniously offsetting its trekking pole placement towards the head-end to maximize ceiling space directly above where users sit up. Learn more in our full length Zpacks Offset Duo Review.
Gossamer Gear Polycryo Ground Cloth
Gossamer Gear Polycryo Ground Cloth
3.7 oz | $11
For camping on abrasive surfaces, we recommend the Gossamer Gear Polycryo Ground Cloth. As simple as it is, it’s some of the smartest ultralight backpacking gear. It’s much, much lighter than the sil-nylon version that came with your backpacking tent, and will still protect against puncture and microtears. This is the preferred footprint for ultralight tents. For solo shelters, cut the width down by 1/3 for a total weight of 2.4 oz
Teragon Gear Pioneer Stake
0.18 oz | $20
The Teragon Gear Pioneer Stake, made of 3D printed titanium, has been an outright terrific piece of ultralight gear. These Norwegian tent stakes represent overdue innovation in a category that has, until recently, been stagnant. They are likely the best performance option on the market, the lightest weight, and almost certainly the most expensive. The 3D-printing process allows for a narrow neck with a structurally reinforced head connection. This is the best of both worlds, because it hold guylines perfectly without bending or snapping.
Zpacks Goose Down Jacket
Zpacks Goose Down Jacket
6.8 oz | $375
The Zpacks Goose Down Jacket blows the hubcaps off competitors like the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer. In particular, it’s almost two times warmer for the weight. This is because it’s filled with top-tier 950 fill power down (and more of it) vs mid-tier 800 fill. And they didn’t skimp on features either. The Zpacks Goose Down Jacket still has a drawcord hood, two pockets, full front zipper, and drawcord hem to seal out drafts. It isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s still a great performance to value ratio costing only marginally more than Ghost Whisperer. Read more in our full-length Zpacks Goose Down Jacket Review.
Alpha Direct Hoodie
~5.0 oz | ~$100
A hoodie made with Polartec AD fleece is lighter weight, has a higher warmth-to-weight ratio, higher breathable, less water absorption, and a faster dry time than any competing alternative. However, it is also far less durable than average and has zero wind resistance. But they’re basically perfect for fastpacking and super ultralight backpacking. Use it respectfully and pair with a UL windbreaker or breathable rain shell for maximum modularity, versatility, and surprising warmth. Read more in our guide to the Best Alpha Direct Hoodies.
Enlightened Equipment Copperfield Wind Pants
1.5 oz | $80
For backpacking, fastpacking, and ultra running, we recommend the Enlightened Equipment Copperfield Wind Pants. Weighing just 1.5 oz in M’s medium, they are the perfect windbreaker pants to stow in any pocket, and provide incredible resistance to wind chill relative to their weight. The 10D nylon fabric is treated with DWR for light water repellency. They are extremely minimalist and delicate, so use them respectfully. A shock cord cinches the waist. It simply does not get lighter than these. Read more in our full-length Enlightened Equipment Copperfield Wind Pants Review.
Zpacks Vertice Rain Jacket
Zpacks Vertice Rain Jacket
5.6 oz | Price: $299
The Zpacks Vertice Rain Jacket is the best and most breathable super ultralight hard shell, and it blows mainstream outdoor brands out of the water in terms of pure performance. The Vertice membrane comes with a whopping 56k breathability rating (Gore-Tex is rated to 17k). And despite that, it maintains a waterproof rating of 20k – only a bit lower than most Gore-Tex. The Vertice even has pitzips, a remarkable feature-add, considering it weighs so little! Perfect for fastpacking!
Paka Performance Socks
1.7 | $24
For the ultimate blend of comfort and functionality, pull on a pair of Paka Performance 3/4 Crew socks, our editor’s choice award winning model for hiking socks. They have all of the right features, and are made with a dreamy blend of alpaca wool, Tencel, recycled nylon, and spandex that keep your feet comfortable, thermo-regulated, dry, blister-free, and less smelly, all day long. We’re even prepared to say that alpaca wool is superior to merino. Shop now.
Black Diamond Lightweight Screentap Gloves
Black Diamond Screentap Lightweight Gloves
1.4 oz | $35
Minimalist and touchscreen compatible, the Black Diamond Lightweight Screentap Gloves are a basic pair of lightweight fleece liner style gloves at a good price. This unisex style is constructed with Polartec Power Stretch fleece, a premium name-brand fabric. Note, this is a lightweight fleece, and we’ve picked it because it weighs very little, not because it’s the warmest.
Jetboil Stash Stove Review
7.1 oz | $145
The lightest fully integrated stove-pot combo system available! We love Jetboil Stash Stove‘s amazing heat fuel efficiency, and how nicely all of the components nest into the pot. This is our go-to stove, and a very smart piece of ultralight backpacking gear. No other stove is this good for all-purpose backpacking.
Sea to Summit Alpha Light Spoon – Long
Sea to Summit Alpha Light Spoon – Long
0.4 oz | $12
Specifically designed for freeze dried bags but perfect for all backountry food ingestion, the Sea to Summit Alpha Light Spoon – Long is 8.5″ in length and weighs only .4 oz. Constructed with tough and durable aircraft grade aluminum alloy, it is the perfect ultralight eating utensil.
Katadyn BeFree Water Filter
2.1 oz | $40
Squeeze-based water filters are where it’s at, and Katadyn BeFree has the best flow and the most usable shape. Critically, the .6L size can be front-shoulder-strap mounted, which is the fastest and most efficient option for drinking from water sources as you pass by. It’s lighter and more compact than Sawyer Squeeze and MSR QuickDraw, albeit slightly less durable.
Outdoor Vitals Shoulder Strap Pocket
0.8 oz | $19
The Outdoor Vitals Shoulder Strap Pocket is our preferred holster for storing a .6L Katadyn BeFree water filter, and the two work in perfect synchronicity for a drink-from-the-source-as-you-go hydration strategy with the least possible amount of effort. This system is particularly ideal for people with inflexible shoulders who cannot reach back into their side pockets.
Pair of 1L Smartwater Bottles
Pair of 1L Smartwater Bottles
2.4 oz | $2 each
Ditch those heavy Nalgenes for a significantly lighter water storage unit. We prefer to use 1L Smartwater bottles. Incredibly durable for a “single use product,” this thru hiker favorite fits the Sawyer filter and can last an entire season of backpacking or longer. Also works for storing on a shoulder holster, and slides in and out of side pockets better than wide bottles.
Bic Mini Lighter
0.4 oz | $2
Smaller lighters save weight, and are just as good at lighting stoves. The Bic Mini has been with us for decades and is always reliable.
Gerber LST Ultralight Knife
Gerber LST Ultralight Knife
0.6 oz | $26
With an impeccably sharp 2” blade and weighing a scant 1.2 oz, this Gerber Knife is great for basic backcountry food prep and general-purpose cutting; a perfect piece of ultralight backpacking gear.
Zpacks Ultralight Travel Toothbrush
Zpacks Ultralight Travel Toothbrush
0.5 oz | $3
Our friends at Zpacks sell a wide variety of ultralight gear, and we’re glad to find they also stock toothbrushes so you don’t have to visit four pharmacies until you find a sufficiently lightweight travel brush. The Zpacks Ultralight Travel Toothbrush comes with a mini toothpaste tube as well, but without that, the kit with case weighs only half an ounce. It’s a bit finicky to be honest, but still perfectly functional and helps keep weight down.
Nitecore NU25 UL 400 Headlamp
Nitecore NU25 UL 400 Headlamp
1.6 oz | $37
If you don’t have a rechargeable headlamp yet, now is the time to upgrade. The Nitecore NU25 UL 400 Headlamp is our go-to for super ultralight fastpacking endeavors. But it works just as well as for short backpacks and as an emergency light for a day hiking kit. NU25 has a good battery, basic controls including locking, red or white light, different levels of brightness, and can generate up to 400 lumens of light. The two thin straps are marginally less comfortable than a wider one.
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator
3.6 oz | $400
Satellite Communicators are likely the single biggest safety upgrade money can buy. The Garmin inReach Mini allows text messaging (by bluetoothing to your phone) and SOS pings from anywhere in the world, no grid necessary. Requires an affordable monthly service plan. For super ultralight fastpacking, we prefer inReach Mini to our top overall sat comm, the ZOLEO – which is more user friendly, but heavier. Read more in our satellite communicator guide.
Gaia GPS App
Gaia GPS App
0 oz | $40
Available on iPhone or Android, Gaia GPS offers a Google Maps-like experience but pinpoints you on topographic maps with trails and routing. No cell service or internet is required, so long as you download the maps in advance. It’s much lighter, more affordable, and user-friendly than dedicated GPS units. Gaia GPS is our primary backcountry navigation tool, backed up by paper maps. And, if you subscribe to your first year of Gaia GPS by clicking the button below, they’ll give you 20% off! Considering that phone apps are weightless, we think this is some pretty great ultralight backpacking gear.
Suunto M-3D Compass
Suunto M-3 D Leader Compass
1.6 oz | $65
The Suunto M-3D is a simple and durable lightweight compass with all of the essential features, including declination adjustment. Should always carry along with paper maps as a backup to GPS.
Paper Topo Map
Paper Topo Map
.5 oz | Variable
A paper topo map is still important! We prefer printed topographic quadrangles at 1:24.000. Store in a Ziploc bag. High quality prints can be purchased on waterproof paper. You can also use online mapping software like Cal Topo to print your maps freely. Nat Geo maps are nice, but heavy.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Stuff Sack Pillow
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Stuff Sack Pillow
1.7 oz | $59
We love the 9L Hyperlite Mountain Gear Stuff Sack Pillow for dry gear storage and improving quality of sleep. A great 2-for-1 and an ideal piece of ultralight backpacking gear. Constructed with waterproof durable Dyneema, zipper access, and a reversible fleece interior lining for pillow-mode. It gives a lot of utility for 1.7 ounces. The large size fits a puffy better and is comfier to sleep on.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Drawstring Stuff Sack
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Drawstring Stuff Sack
0.7 oz | $49
For storing frequently accessed items like sunscreen, bug head net, or extra socks, we recommend the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Drawstring Stuff Sacks in the 9L size, DCF11. They also make great food bags. These bags are constructed with waterproof, durable, ultralight Dyneema fabric and will outlast multiple generations of cheaper sil-nylon bags.
Minimalist First Aid & Repair Kit
2.5 oz | $ Variable
For super ultralight fastpacking, we carry a minimalist first aid plus repair combo kit. First Aid: Leukotape, Ibuprofen, Tylenol, assorted bandages, Petpto Bismol, Immodium, caffeine, Benadryl, Neosporin, gauzes, latex gloves. Repair: duct tape, tenacious tape, Therm-a-Rest patch kit, alcohol wipes, safety pin, needle, zip tie, krazy glue
HOKA Speedgoat 5
10.3 oz | $155
Our staff pick trail runner! The HOKA Speedgoat 5 is technical, cushioned, very sturdy, and very very grippy, even on challenging terrain. This shoe is great for hiking long days thanks for the comfortable cushion and wide toe box. The average overall width of shoe keeps feet from sloshing about on sloped terrain and provides accurate, stable footfalls. Perfect for everything from casual day hiking to super ultralight fastpacking, and everything in between. Read more in our full-length HOKA Speedgoat 5 Review.
Paka Performance Socks
1.7 | $24
For the ultimate blend of comfort and functionality, pull on a pair of Paka Performance 3/4 Crew socks, our editor’s choice award winning model for hiking socks. They have all of the right features, and are made with a dreamy blend of alpaca wool, Tencel, recycled nylon, and spandex that keep your feet comfortable, thermo-regulated, dry, blister-free, and less smelly, all day long. We’re even prepared to say that alpaca wool is superior to merino. Shop now.
Gossamer Gear LT5 Carbon Trekking Poles
Gossamer Gear LT5 Three Piece Carbon Trekking Poles
9.8 oz | $195
Weighing just 9.8 oz, Gossamer Gear LT5 are some of the most effective super ultralight trekking poles on the market. Carbon fiber is the best material for the job, and these feel fast and sturdy with a precise swing. They use as a twist-lock design to save weight. The padded wrist straps are comfy. LT5 are our preferred trekking poles for fastpacking.
Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie
Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie
5.2 oz | $75
For a majority of three season hiking, we recommend the Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie. This sun hoody is incredibly light, stretchy, comfortable, breathable, airy, quick drying, moisture wicking, and rated to UPF 15-20 (depending on color). This shirt does it all, and is perfect compliment to an ultralight backpacking gear kit. Pack a sun hoody and you’ll find that you will save weight carrying less sunscreen and also get less sun burns. We’ve worn this shirt around the world and are always impressed. What’s more, it’s built with eco-friendly recycled polyester!
Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts
4.0 oz | $79 M’s | $69 W’s
We love the wearing the Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts because they offer the best blend of stretch, comfort, breathability, and zippered pocket security. This is a great all-purpose pair of shorts that’s particularly good for hiking, but also great for trail running and athleisure. Pro tip – cut the liners out and use your preferred underwear. Read our full-length Patagonia Multi-Trails Shorts Review.
Outdoor Research Swift Cap
Outdoor Research Swift Cap
2.5 oz | $30
A simple UPF 50 sun cap gets the job done best. The Outdoor Research Swift Cap is comprised of a lightweight, breathable mesh, with a 3-panel nylon layer on the crown to block the harshest UV. It also has a moisture wicking sweat band and adjustable at the back. We’ve worn this one all around the world.
COROS APEX 2 Pro
2.0 oz | $450
If you are serious about your outdoor adventuring and training, then the COROS APEX 2 Pro is the right watch for you (shop now). Over the past two years we’ve run this watch through the wringer, guiding in Alaska, mountaineering, nordic skiing, ocean kayak racing, trail running, mountain biking, etc. The verdict? This an exceptional performer in the field and our favorite outdoor smartwatch. In particular, its battery life blows the competition away with 200 hours of in-field GPS tracking. As such, it’s a perfect choice for those who play and train hard in the backcountry, especially for multiple days at a time. Read more in our full-length COROS APEX 2 Pro Review.
Glacier Gloves Islamorada Fingerless Sun Gloves
2.5 oz | $25
A simple pair of fingerless UPF 50+ sun gloves for use in harsh sun with heavy UV Exposure. The Glacier Glove Islamorada Fingerless Sun Gloves are dexterous, stretchy, breathable, quick drying, and durable thanks to the synthetic leather palms. This is technically a fishing glove, but we prefer it to similar and more expensive sun hiking gloves from traditional outdoor brands. Read more in our full length Glacier Gloves Islamorada review.
Tifosi Swank Sunglasses
Tifosi Swank Sunglasses
1.0 oz | $30
Backpacking is hard on shades. They tend to get scratched, lost, crushed, or otherwise damaged. That’s why we recommend a basic, functional, and more economical option like the Tifosi Swank Sunglasses. They look great and you can replace them without breaking the bank. But you may never have to as they polycarbonate lenses are shatterproof, 20x more impact resistant than glass, and provide 100% protection from UVA and UVB rays. The frames are similarly durable.
Saxx Quest 2.0 Boxer Briefs
Saxx Quest 2.0
1.8 oz | $32 MSRP
The Saxx Quest 2.0 Boxer Briefs are extremely breathable, quick drying, moisture wicking, and secure. And in their words, the patented BallPark Pouch™ provides friction-free support. This is the comfiest and most secure boxer brief we’ve tried. If you suffer from inner-thigh chafe, opt for the longer inseam version.
Patagonia Barely Bra
Patagonia Barely Bra
1.2 oz | $55.00
The Patagonia Barely Bra is wicking, quick-drying, comfortable, and odor-reducing, all important features for a backcountry undergarment. A meta study of buyers guides for hiking bras and online reviews confirms that this is one of the most widely recommended options.
Icebreaker Siren Bikini Underwear
Icebreaker Siren Bikini Underwear
1 oz | $35.00
With hundreds of 5 star reviews and featured in virtually every online buyers guide, we’re happy to endorse the Icebreaker Siren Bikini Underwear. The merino wool blend is comfy and naturally anti bacterial. They’re stretchy, breathable, and designed with low profile seams.
Ultralight Wallet
0.3 oz | $.25
For an ultralight, waterproof wallet, simply put your essential cards, keys, and a few bills into a ZipLoc bag. Freezer grade pint size is preferred for its durability and secure closure. Been using the same bag for two years now.
Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent
Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent
0.5 oz | $10
The efficacy of DEET without harsh chemicals. Sawyer Picardin Insect Repellent is our go-to skin protection against mosquitos and ticks. We prefer the lotion to the spray-on, which lasts 8-14 hours. And you don’t need to carry much, since you’re only applying once or twice per day. Buy the 4 oz container and decant half an ounce into an empty hand sanitizer bottle. That’s more than enough for an entire hiking season.
Sea To Summit Mosquito Head Net
Sea To Summit Mosquito Head Net
1.0 oz | $15 MSRP
Weighing only one oz and totally bug-proof, you barely notice the Sea to Summit Mosquito Head Net. Yet in early summer, it might be the hardest working piece of ultralight backpacking gear you carry. It’s comfy see through, and outperforms bug repellent sprays and lotions. We like the version treated with InsectShield permethrin to further ward off mosquitos. This is a must-bring in June and July in the mountains.
TheTentLab The Deuce #2 Trowel
TheTentLab The Deuce #2 Trowel
0.6 oz | $20
Ditch that clunky, orange, plastic trowel and upgrade to TheTentLab The Deuce. It’s is the sturdiest sub-one ounce trowel we know of. And at $20, it’s also a great buy and an easy ultralight backpacking gear gift with universal appeal for the hiker in your life.
TOAKS Titanium 450ml Mug
2.7 oz | $20
Built with sturdy, ultralight titanium, the TOAKS Titanium Single Wall 450 is our go-to camp mug. It holds 15 oz, is a great value, and may just last forever. Pro tip – ditch the orange mesh bag – you don’t need it.
Anker Powercore 10000 Battery Charger
Anker Powercore 10000 Battery Charger
6.4 oz | $26
Weighing just 6.4 oz, this powerhouse, rechargeable USB battery can charge most phones multiple times — great for use on trips longer than three days. And unlike many “smart” batteries The Anker Powercore 10,000 will detect & charge low drain devices like a fitbit or smart watches.
Ursack Major Bear Sack
Ursack Major Bear Sack 10L
7.6 oz | $90
Unless a canister is strictly required by land management, we always prefer the Ursack Major Bear Sack, now made with ballistic grade Spectra. It’s lightweight, comfy to carry, and does actually protect your food in the overwhelming majority of bear encounters. We recommend pairing it with the Loksak Opsac bag as a smell-proof, waterproof, liner system. When full, it holds about 4-5 day worth of food.
LOKSAK OPSAK Odor-Proof Barrier Bag 12×20
LOKSAK OPSAK 12×20
0.8 oz | $16 MSRP
Nesting perfectly in an Ursack Major Bear Bag, this giant, ultra-heavy-duty-Ziploc-style bag called LOKSAK OPSAK will keep your food dry when it rains, and prevent smells from escaping when properly closed. A necessary pairing to fully protect your food from the elements and animals. Each bag lasts 1-2 hiking seasons, depending on use.
Bearvault BV500 Bear Canister
Bearvault BV500 Journey Bear Canister
40 oz | $95
When bears are present and canisters are required, we recommend the Bearvault BV500 Bear Canister for the best blend of volume, protection, and value. We prefer bear bags whenever possible, but this is our go-to when that’s not an option.
Counter Assault Bear Deterrent Spray
Counter Assault Bear Deterrent
11 oz | $48
Much like first aid, bear spray is one piece of gear you never want to have to use. Counter Assault Bear Deterrent has been the gold standard in scaring off curious ursine for decades now, and we trust this product. The lock mechanism is very secure.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Kahtoola MICROspikes
11 oz | $75
Often copied but never equaled, the Kahtoola MICROspikes are the go-to option for walking on steep snowy and icy terrain. They have incredible traction, last forever, and are the preferred option of PCT thru hikers in the Sierra Nevada mountains during high snow years.
C.A.M.P. Corsa Ice Axe
C.A.M.P. Corsa Ice Axe
7.1 oz | $120
For periodically ascending steep-but-non-technical snowy passes and peaks, the ultralight C.AM.P. Corsa Ice Axe is all you need. It serves the primary purposes of self arrest and acting as balance point, while also saving more pack weight than any other ice axe when stowed. We think it’s the best ice axe for hiking and backpacking.
Janji Transit Tech Pants
7.1 oz | $94
If you like hiking in trail running shoes, why not consider trail running pants too? The Janji Transit Tech Pants are our preferred trail running pants for fastpacking. They’re stretchy, breathable, durable, UPF 50, and have three excellent and secure zipper pockets. And for just seven ounces, they’re also lighter weight than any traditional hiking pants.
Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants
Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants
3.2 oz | $149
Fully waterproof, preposterously breathable, and only three ounces, the Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants are top tier rain pants for minimizing weight. Vertice has a breathability rating of 56k, that’s more than than triple Gore-Tex, perfect for high intensity fastpacking. True, this isn’t the most durable pair of rain pants, but we find them to be sufficient for on-trail use and are the current best option for a super ultralight gear list.
Zpacks Vertice Rain Mitts
1.0 | $70
If you want the lightest and most breathable waterproof handwear, pull on a pair of Zpacks Vertice Rain Mitts. They weigh virtually nothing, are three times more breathable than Gore-Tex, and when combined with fleece liners, make for a complete hand protection system for wet weather.
Feathered Friends Helios Down Jacket
Feathered Friends Helios Down Hooded Jacket
18 oz | $469
If you need warmth for shoulder season or winter camping, you need a Parka. The Feathered Friends Helios Down Hooded Jacket is filled with 7.8o z of 900 fill power down, and it’s preposterously cozy. This jacket delivers a warmth-to-weight ratio that far exceeds what you get from a down sweater, or basically anything from a mainstream outdoor brand. Not only is it warm, we love the pocket design on the Helios, and are always excited to throw this one on. It’s go-to for sub-freezing temperatures.
Enlightened Equipment Torrid Pants
Enlightened Equipment Torrid Pants
5.9 oz | $140.00
In fall and winter, we highly recommend packing insulated camp pants over fleece and merino base layers, and we think the best option for ultralight backpacking gear enthusiasts is the Enlightened Equipment Torrid Pants. They have a seriously excellent warmth-to-weight ratio at 5.9 oz. While we tend to prefer down insulation for jackets, synthetic insulation is a better option for pants due to its water resistance, as they’re more likely to come in contact with snow and wet surfaces at the ankle, seat, and knees. Compared to similar offerings from much larger brands, the Torrid Pants are simply warmer and lighter.
Feathered Friends Down Booties
Feathered Friends Down Booties
9.3 oz | $119
We absolutely adore our Feathered Friends Down Booties, the most heralded cold weather camp footwear of all time. When planning for temperatures below freezing, a warm sock won’t cut it, so we always pack down booties, and recommend you do too. This is a modular bootie which includes a down sock, and a weather resistant outer shell with a sole.
REI Co-op Power Wool Balaclava
REI Co-op Power Wool Balaclava
2.0 oz | $35
If you really want to keep your head warm, don’t skimp on neck coverage. For four season hiking, we prefer the full coverage from headwear like the REI Co-op Power Wool Balaclava which insulates your neck, chin, and cheeks, with cozy blend of wool and Polartec fleece.
Conclusion: Fastpacking Super Ultralight Gear List
We hope you found our super ultralight gear list helpful and enlightening! This fastpacking gear has served us on many challenging trips all around the world, and we’re confident it will do the same for you. Happy hiking, happy fastpacking, and happy trails!
