Tracking New Ultralight Gear Releases
We love testing out new ultralight gear, and here we’ll catalog our favorite new releases to help keep you in the know on prominent industry developments. This list will never be complete, but we’ll strive to update it frequently. Styles that were released more than a year ago will be removed as they age out. If you have a suggestion, please drop us a line in the comments.
We’ve handpicked this assortment of high-performance new ultralight gear to highlight major releases in the year thus far, based largely on our own preferences, and perception of marketplace significance. We will note styles here before testing them, and any analysis is based largely on spec. Please note that the emphasis is on prominent releases. This is not a catalog of every new piece of ultralight gear from every brand or custom designer. Lastly, it is not claiming to highlight strictly best-in-class equipment. For coverage of existing styles, please refer to our buyer’s guides and gear lists.
Cover Photo: HMG Crosspeak 1, Exped Ultra 6.5R
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The New Ultralight Gear
Patagonia Re-Tool Air Snap-T
8.3 oz | $159 | Added Oct 13, 2026
Patagonia is first to market with the latest version of Polartec Alpha Direct Fabric, and their Re-Tool Air Snap-T looks superb. This new Alpha offers all of the same lightweight warmth, hyper breathable, quick-drying benefits as before, but is now made with 100% recycled materials, and has increased resistance to snagging and shedding. This particular garments features a lovely snap pullover, hand pockets, and elastic trim.
Zpacks DupleXL Pro
19.1 oz | $849 | Added Oct 13, 2026
The Zpacks DupleXL is back and better than ever, now with a full suite of “Pro” features. This tent iterates on the Duplex Pro with 12″ center end poles to loft the already extra tall ceiling, and a longer, narrower chassis, measuring out to 96″ x 40″ instead of 84″ x 50″. Because of its narrowness, Zpacks frames this as a 1.5 person tent; spacious and comfy for soloists with the exact minimum width necessary to fit two standard sized pads.
Windquester Horizon Lite 2 UL
41 oz | $369 | Added Oct 13, 2026
The Windquester Horizon Lite 2 UL was released in early 2026, but only just hit my radar. In terms of mass, volume, and feature set, this lightweight fully-freestanding tent is a direct competitor to Big Agnes Copper Spur and Nemo Dragonfly, but for $200 less.
Durston Iceline RS Trekking Poles
6.5 oz | $149 | Added Oct 13, 2026
Still lightweight and stiff as heck, the new Durston Iceline RS Trekking Poles build on the success of the original with a more durable and economical aluminum option. The heavier weight, thick-walled 7075 aluminum lower shafts are designed for handling the unexpected force loading stressors encountered while crossing a talus field. Like the original, they are collapsible, low reverb, and feature a superb handle/wrist strap combo.
Vaucluse Gear Ventilation Frame Max UL3
4.8 oz | $55 | Added Oct 13, 2026
Reduce back sweat by adding an air-flow frame to your pack! Vaucluse’s newest piece of ventilation gear is the Max UL3, their lightest design yet. Comprised of a 3D plastic frame encased in spacer mesh, this add-on attaches easily to virtually any backpack. Use code ADVENTUREALAN for 10% off.
ZOLEO ZL1500
5.3 oz | $199| Added Sep 23, 2026
ZOLEO is the best value SatComm, and the best for SMS text messaging because you get a permanent phone number instead of a temporary mystery number for each conversation. And now there is a new and slightly improved version of the device called the ZL1500. While its battery and antenna remain the same…sigh… it comes with USB-C charging, an IP68 dust and water ingress protection rating, rubberized grip, and better Bluetooth connectivity. The overall experience of using ZOLEO remains unchanged.
Lost Ponies ALUULA Storage
0.4 oz | $35 | Added Sep 12, 2026
Gear storage upgrades may not be headline news, but I’m immediately impressed by the Lost Ponies ALUULA zip sacks, pouches, and dry bags. They weigh about the same as comparably sized Dyneema storage bags, are equally as water resistant, but significantly more durable. Because ALUULA responds so well to heat bonding, stitching is not required (apart from zipper tracks), which eliminates a major potential weak/leak point. The biggest drawback is that ALUULA is bulkier and more structural than Dyneema, thus it fills up more space inside your pack.
Brooks Movement Polartec Airy Fleece
6.0 oz | $120 | Added Sep 12, 2026
Well, well, well, another mainstream brand released their version of an Alpha Direct Hoodie. This time it’s Brooks Movement Polartec Airy, officially cementing 2026 as the year of the Alpha. Like REI Co-op Screenline and most of the Cottage Industry models before it, Brooks’ Airy is a minimalist, mostly featureless AD Hoodie finished with elasticized trim around hood, hem, and cuffs. It is 135 gsm, so expect this one to be a bit warmer and heavier than average for an AH hoodie.
Freevane Kodiak Telescoping
7.2 oz | $80 | Added Sep 12, 2026
Freevane Kodiaks scored the highest strength-to-weight ratio out of all 33 poles we tested for deflection, while tying the infamously beefy BD Alpine Carbon Corks for strongest overall pole. And priced at a scant $80, the value proposition is incredible. Like all of the other best trekking poles, the recipe for success is wide diameter carbon fiber shafts. Kodiak measures in at 18/16/14 mm with thicker-than-average side walls reinforced by a 3k carbon weave.
Big Agnes Alpha Direct Sleeping Bag Liner
7.0 oz | $150| Added Sep 12, 2026
Major brands have now fully realized that Alpha is the best fleece for backpacking, and they’re putting it to all sorts of good use like the Big Agnes Alpha Direct Sleeping Bag Liner. Of course, the Cottage industry thought of this years ago, but it’s still cool to see it available at REI Co-op.
Zpacks Arc Pro 50
22.2 oz | $449 | Added Sep 10, 2026
The astoundingly lightweight, full-frame Zpacks Arc Pro 50 takes what was already an elite design, and upgrades it with a full suite of durable, Venom stretch mesh exterior pockets. This is a serious improvement in functionality over the original, and likely places Zpacks on the new best-in-class ultralight pack throne. Arc Pro retains all of Arc Haul’s other features, including: a stiff weight transferring frame; taut mesh back panel; load lifters; seam-taped UltraX composite fabric; articulated shoulder straps; and modularity galore. The biggest drawback is its price point, likely coming in around $600 once fully accessorized with hip belt and shoulder strap pockets. See more in our Zpacks Arc Pro Review.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 & 55
27.3 oz | $395 | Added Sep 1, 2026
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound, rereleased and improved for 2026, is the lightest and best overall configuration of the brand’s signature roll top, white, highly water-resistant, ultralight backpacks. Optimal pocket configuration sets this pack apart from its peers. Compared to the original, 2026’s Unbound gets better weight transfer thanks to a second aluminum stay, and wider shoulder/hip belt straps for a comfier carry. Other updates include a fabric improvement – now woven Dyneema composite , and wider, comfier shoulder straps. Like all HMG backpacks, its biggest drawback is lack of load lifters; though it still carries comfortably without them.
BD x Norda Distance 15
11.7 oz | $300 | Added Sep 1, 2026
In collaboration with premium running shoe Norda, Black Diamond has launched a new version of their best-selling Distance 15 Pack, upgraded with Challenge Ultra 100 fabric. This makes the Distance significantly more durable and water-resistant. It retains a nearly identical weight and feature set, including the nicely aerated back panel, torso hugging vest straps adorned in pockets, and clever z-pole storage pockets. Distance 15 was already one of the best running vest packs on the market, and now it’s even better.
REI Co-op Screeline Alpha Hoodie
5.3 oz | $100
Yes, you’re reading that correctly – an REI Co-op brand Alpha Direct Hoodie! Wow, the times they are a changin’. While the technology and performance of this 90 gsm garment are identical to comparable Cottage Industry Alpha hoodies, this is a grand slam in terms of availability and convenience. Arguably, REI Co-op Screeline Alpha Hoodie is the most mainstream-ification of ultralight gear tech we’ve ever seen. And for just one hundred dollars, it’s priced very fairly. Order up!
Durston X-Dome Pro 1+
27.5 oz | $849
Durston X-Dome Pro 1+ raises the bar for how good an ultralight freestanding tent can be. The specs and features you get for just 27.5 oz are simply outrageous, and it is the new best-in-class 1P freestanding option. In addition to being double-walled, it also delivers an elite area-to-weight ratio, fly-first pitching, nice ventilation ports, a massive vestibule, and near-4-season levels of wind stability thanks to hyper stiff Easton Carbon poles. In essence, this tent is an optimized version of the already excellent original X-Dome 1.5, but made even lighter with Dyneema fabric.
Alpenglow Gear Alpenblow Lux Micro Inflator
0.5 oz | $60
Alpenblow Lux has become our preferred pad inflator because it weighs so little while offering so much. At base, this small, battery-less device is powered by your portable charger and quietly inflates a pad in 1-2 minutes. On top of that, it offers an ambient lighting feature, and white noise if desired. It is much lighter than the popular Flextail Zero Pump, because that device runs off its own battery.
Brooks Cascadia 20
10.8 oz | $160
Twenty-two years after its first release, the Brooks Cascadia 20 remains a comfortable, versatile, mountain trail workhorse. Enjoy high durability, excellent traction, a broadly appealing stack-height-drop combo, and zero blisters straight out of the box. While it doesn’t have a wide toe box, the overall shoe isn’t narrow and is available with wide width sizes.
HMG 20 Degree Mummy
26.5 oz | $650
The new-for-2026 Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20 Degree Mummy is an immediate contender for best ultralight sleeping bag thanks to baffles that are generously filled with 16.7 oz of 1000 fill power down, encased in an ultralight 7d nylon shell fabric. This combo yields an unrivaled warmth-to-weight ratio, easily outperforming its mostly ~900 fill power, 10d nylon competitors. This bag is quite a bit warmer than average, and we think it would have been fair to swap that 20 in the name out for a 15. We’d estimate the comfort rating at 25F. Read more in our Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20 Degree Mummy Sleeping Bag Review.
Zpacks Plex Solo Pro
13.2 oz | $649
Zpacks’ lightest fully enclosed 1P tent is modernized for 2026! The Plex Solo Pro now gets double-L mesh doors, zippered storm doors, magnetic roll-up toggles, and a peak vent. It retains the single trekking pole pitch and DCF fly/floor fabric. From our perspective, this a distinct upgrade over the Plex Solo Classic.
Gossamer Gear The Free
29.8 oz | $400
The Free is Gossamer Gear’s first fully freestanding tent, and its low weight combined with an affordable price point are sure to make waves. The design is a classic double wall cross pole configuration with 8.7mm DAC NFLs and a custom, highly waterproof 15d Robic ripstop.
Gossamer Gear The Two
28.2 oz | $375
Gossamer Gear’s most classic and popular trekking pole tents, The One and The Two, are upgraded for 2026! Both models get an improved Robic ripstop fly fabric, peak vents, and Fritsch Hitch guyline systems that maximize the bathtub floor. They remain the best value ultralight tents on the market.
Zpacks Altaplex Pro
14.5 oz | $749
Zpacks’ newest (and largest) ultralight solo shelter, the Altaplex Pro, is a tricked out version of the Altaplex Classic. That means peak vent, zippered storm door, magnetic toggles, and best of all, symmetrical double-L mesh doors; goodbye dirty rainbow zipper! Given its large size, low weight, premium features, and ease of pitching, this has potential to be Zpacks’ best 1P tent, comparable to Pivot Solo. It’s a tall boy, so don’t forget to pick up a 1.2 oz carbon pole jack!
FLEXTAIL Zero Power 5k
3.0 oz | $40
At 3.0 oz, FLEXTAIL Zero Power 5k is the lightest UL battery pack on the market, though only by a fraction of an ounce. Except for the Nitecore Carbon 6k (which has an extra 1000 mAh and better water resistance), it outpaces all of the competition offering one full phone recharge. The thin rectangular carbon chassis fits well in nearly all storage, and I personally like it more than the cylindrical Nitecore 6k shape. Rounding things out, it gets two USB-C ports, but I’m not sure why that’s necessary on a 5k model.
FLEXTAIL Zero Pump 2
2.0 oz | $57 (w/ battery)
A pad inflator converts a bit of extra weight into time and effort savings, and FLEXTAIL Zero Pump 2 is the new best option. Compared to the original, V2 is 0.2 oz lighter weight, has better screw threading, inflates slightly faster, and emits slightly more fan noise. Note, the unit by itself is labeled 1.0 oz, but actually weighs 2.0 oz with a rubber pad port connector and its 900 mAh battery.
SkyGoat Half-Zip Hooded Pullover AIR 70
5.2 oz | $129
For a new take on the ultralight fleece genre, check out SkyGoat Half-Zip Hooded Pullover AIR 70, available men’s or women’s. Until now, the ~5 oz weight class had been limited to weird, high performance fuzz textiles like Alpha Direct or Brushed Octa. Unlike those, SGHZHPA70 is effectively just a really thin, 70 gsm version of traditional grid fleece. The outside has a soft, fuzzy texture, while the inside is a flat polyester knit. Theoretically, it would be even warmer if worn inside out, because the fuzz traps dead air and the flat face blocks wind. The half-zip pullover configuration features thumb loops, a stand up collar, and elasticized trim throughout.
Cnoc ThruBottle 1000
2.2 oz | $14
Cnoc just released the second edition of their much-heralded ThruBottle, and it’s a significant upgrade over V1. You still get the tall and skinny Smartwater form, but it’s a full ounce lighter, and now features eminently squeezable side walls. These changes address both major concerns with V1, slotting it into contention for the best-in-class UL water bottle, alongside Igneous Nobo.
Zpacks Nero Pro
12.7 oz | $299 (40L version)
Zpacks Nero Pro is a frameless ultralight pack that iterates on Nero Classic with multiple feature improvements. Like its predecessor, Nero Pro is made with seam taped Ultra fabric, and can swap between either of Zpacks best-in-class shoulder strap configurations; standard or vest mode. We’re particularly keen on the vest design because it has larger-than-average pockets that can more easily accommodate front-mounted water storage. But unlike Nero Classic, the Pro gets a full set of Venom stretch mesh external pockets (including a bottom pocket) which are more functional because they can expand/contract as needed, and hold contents in place better to prevent bouncing while jogging. Lastly, we’re super keen on the sit pad back panel sleeve, which adds a layer of mesh between you and the foam, reducing sweat and increasing aeration. While Nero classic is still available and still excellent, we no longer recommend it because the Pro version is so much better.
Zpacks Deluxe Camp Shoes
2.7 oz | $40
The Zpacks Deluxe Camp Shoes are another iterative product, improving on the Ultralight Camp Shoes. This version uses the same nylon sidewall fabric, foam insert, and lycra stretch mesh top, but swaps out the shock cord heel for more nylon to reduce pressure on the low heel. All in, they’re the best super ultralight camp shoe solution available.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear CrossPeak 1
28.7 oz | $825
Building off the success of their best-in-class, ultralight, freestanding CrossPeak 2, Hyperlite Mountain Gear introduces CrossPeak 1! Like its predecessor, CP1 is a single wall freestander, built with the same Dyneema fabric and DAC 8.7mm aluminum NFL poles, but slimmed down with a single door and smaller interior. The end result saves 5.3 oz and $125, which is preferable for dedicated soloists, but less versatile and less ventilated than the two-door, two-person CrossPeak 2. Taking into the account its low weight and high sturdiness (shout out to the trekking pole reinforcement feature), CrossPeak 1 slots in as an immediate contender for best 1P freestanding tent.
Gossamer Gear FT3
6.2 oz (per pole) | $245 (per pair)
Building off the success of the classic LT5, Gossamer Gear introduces the FT3; a tri-folding variant with the same ultralight carbon shaft construction and comfortable handle wrist strap combo. It’s adjustable from 115-130cm with a single flip lock. Based on positive experiences with the original, we expect these to perform marvelously.
Ultralight Mindset Adventure Sandals
3.7 oz | $45 (per pair)
Ultralight Mindset Adventure Sandals are the best ultralight sandals we’ve tried, offering a perfect blend of low weight and functionality at camp. They bridge the gap between the lightest rubber-soled full-strap walking sandals, Shamma Warriors, and the super ultralight but-not-very-functional Mayfly Nypmphs. The Ultralight Mindset sandals are incredible simply, combining a 6mm EVA foam footbed with a molded traction outsole, and the type of cord-lineloc combo you would expect to see on a tent.
Royal Robbins Salathe Hoodie
5.4 oz | $120
Royal Robbins Salathe is functionally unique as the only sun hoodie boasting mosquito bite-proof fabric. Until now, if you wanted a bite-proof, you had to settle for a classic, dad-core style, woven nylon button-up. In addition to being an aesthetic compliment magnet with cool prints, Salathe is better in two keys ways: (1) it has a hood; (2) it was control tested in a lab by a 3rd party organization and proven to create a “robust barrier to mosquitoes” without chemicals. Read more in our guide to the Best Mosquito Shirt, where Salathe is the go-to base layer.
Freevane Panther
7.5 oz (per pole) | $90 (per pair)
Freevane Panthers are the best all-around folding poles we tested, clocking the highest stiffness-to-weight ratio out of 14 pairs. And for under $100, they also deliver the best value proposition! Their impressive specs are due primarily to wide-diameter, thick-walled, carbon fiber shafts, which are beastly enough to offset the inherent disadvantage of five segment folding poles being structurally weaker than telescoping.
Katadyn BeFree AC Filter Bottle
3.66 oz | $55 (900ml version)
Katadyn BeFree AC Bottle is the second hard-sided squeeze filter to market, following in the hallowed footsteps of HydraPak Breakaway+ in 2025, and easily besting the classic Sawyer + Smartwater combo on both weight, shape, and functionality. Like Breakaway, BeFree uses a self-burping design which automatically refills the bottle with air when you release your squeeze (no need to open the top). But unlike Breakaway, you also get removable activated charcoal filtration, a burly pull/carabiner extension, and screw on threading that doesn’t leak when squeezed aggressively.
Grubcan Carbon Kevlar
24 oz | $500 (6.6L version)
Grubcan’s Carbon Kevlar edition is an immediate contender for the new best bear canister. The 6.6L version weighs only 24 ounces, rivaling Bearikade and easily outperforming the ever-popular Bearvault BV. We’re particular keen on Grubcan’s combo lock opening – simply align each of the three spinning lid layers into their open position and pull upward. Voile, it’s grub time. Also worth noting that the wavy exterior interacts very securely with Y-straps for the purpose of top mounting. Value shoppers may opt for the lower volume-to-weight polycarbonate version.
Arc’teryx Cerium SL
8.3 oz | $450
The Men’s and Women’s Cerium SL are Arc’teryx’s lightest weight down jackets, and high performers in terms of warmth-to-weight, besting 99% of alternatives on the market. Notable elements include the use of 1000 fill power down, and strategically placed synthetic insulation at the shoulders, arm pits, and cuffs for improved moisture resistance.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pemi 15
12.4 oz | $250
Seeing HMG drop an ALUULA Graflyte pack was a shock to the system, considering how the Dyneema-loyalist brand entirely skipped out on the Challenge ULTRA era of 2023-2025. Pemi 15 is a sleek running vest that takes advantage of ALUULA’s monopolymner, heat bonding compatibility to boost waterproofness and decrease seams. This looks like a really sweet pack for runners and we can’t wait to test it out!
Mountain Hardwear Ghoul 20F
22.3 oz | $775
Mountain Hardwear Ghoul 20F is an ultralight, ultra-premium variable-fill sleeping bag designed for optimal warmth-to-weight ratio. More of the 950 fill power down is concentrated in the upper half, which – in tandem with a warmth reflective layer – insulates against heat’s natural tendency to escape upward.
Arc’teryx Alpha SL Jacket
8.2 oz | $500
At just over eight ounces, Arc’teryx Alpha SL is the lightest rain shell ever to use GORE-TEX Pro, a WP/B membrane more frequently found in garments 4-8 times heavier. Extra exciting for those who don’t want to compromise between ultralight and long lasting.
Mountain Hardwear Alakazam 45
28.9 oz | $575
Mountain Hardwear Alakazam is one of the first mainstream Outdoor Industry brand designs offered in ALUULA, and the brand took a really big swing on this one. The incredibly unique design is certainly the most interesting pack we’ve seen thus far in 2026, and combines best-in-class fabric with an articulated hip belt, running vest harness shoulder straps, and XXXL side pockets to great effect. No other option offers the same configuration and benefit set, and boy howdy does it look high tech. But a super high price tag combined with odd pocket sizing gives us pause. Note that when factoring in external pockets, the 45L version is actually a 65L pack. Read more in our full length Mountain Hardwear Alakazam Review.
Outdoor Research Helium UL
5.7 oz | $225
Outdoor Research’s flagship ultralight jacket, the Helium UL, just got a big overhaul. It’s now made with 2.75L Dermizax, instead of 2.5L Pertex Shield+. The result is improved waterproof breathability, and a more textural/less plastic-y feel on the inside face.
Outdoor Vitals Carbon Evo 50
30 oz | $280
Outdoor Vitals’ latest ultralight backpack, the Carbon Evo 50, is a mid-sized, fully-featured design optimized for comfort with highly functional load lifters and a foam-padded back panel. We’re keen on the massive UltraStretch mesh front pocket, large side pockets, and reverse pull hip belt adjuster. This looks to be one of the best value buys in the entire UL pack genre.
Big Agnes Sarvis VST Tent
40 oz | $750 (2p version)
Woah, an ultralight, single wall freestanding tent from… Big Agnes! After resting on their Copper Spur laurels for a bit too long, we’re stoked to BA releasing more innovative tents. The 2.5 pound Sarvis VST offers 32 sq ft and unlike the 29 sq ft Copper Spur, can fit two 25″ pads.
Nitecore Carbon Battery 6k
3.1 oz | $40
The Nitecore Carbon 6k is a the lightest weight power bank, and the best way to carry one full phone recharge into the backcountry. An upgrade over last year’s NB Air 5k, in that it gets a higher IPX8 rating, and an addition 1000 mAh, all for the same weight.
Nitecore NB10000 Gen 4
4.9 oz | $85
The 4th edition of the best power bank in the ultralight biz is better than ever! Nitecore NB10k Gen 4 is now down to 4.9 oz from 5.3 oz, and up to IPX7 from IPX5. On top of that, you get faster and more energy efficient charging, and a knock-to-wake function that lights up the power indicators and port illuminators.
Exped Ultra 6.5R
12.7 oz | $200
Exped rereleased their entire Ultra range of sleeping pads for spring 2026, and the specs are really impressive. The mummy-shaped Ultra 6.5R is particularly impressive; slightly lighter, warmer, and comfier than the existing tier-1 ultralight models like NeoAir, Tensor, and Zoom.
REI Co-op Flash Shade Hoodie
6 oz | $60
REI Co-op Flash Shade is a thin, cool, quick-drying UPF50 sun hoodie, and a sportier alternative to the best selling REI Co-op Sahara Shade. In addition to its high performance fabric, it will make waves as one of first men’s sun hoodie to feature a ponytail port. Read more in our REI Co-op Flash Shade Hoodie Review.
HOKA Speedgoat 7
19.4 oz | $165
The most popular trail shoe is updated for 2026! HOKA Speedgoat 7 boasts bouncier, higher energy return midsole foam, with an improved heel collar and locked-in fit that won’t stretch out. All great micro-improvements on the 6, and a great shoe for technical terrain. Read more in our full length HOKA Speedgoat 7 review.
NEMO Dragonfly OSMO 2P (& 1P, 3P)
45 oz | $550
NEMO’s popular Dragonfly lightweight freestanding backpacking tent is enlarged with stronger pre-bent poles, and an elongated spreader bar for a claimed net headroom boost of 34%! It’s a smidge heavier than the previous edition, but we’ll take it because the end result is an overall volume-to-weight increase.
Sea to Summit Ultralight XR Insulated
14.6 oz | $149
Few insulated sleeping pads weigh under a pound, which makes the Sea to Summit Ultralight XR a tempting offer for just $149 in a size regular. While the 2.6″ thick structure is definitely thinner than average and can cause bottoming out, the actual sleeping surface is astoundingly comfy; great for side, stomach, and back sleepers. In fact, it is comfier than StS Ether Light XR, NEMO Tensor, NEMO Eclipse, and Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite, albeit a notch less warm than all of them. Lastly, the 30d/40d fabric is very tough. We expect this will be a popular best seller, and a great bang for your buck.
ULA Ultra Polarity Pocket
1.7 oz | $43
The magnetic top flap of ULA Ultra Polarity is more user-friendly than zippers or Velcro, and thus our #1 recommended shoulder strap pocket. It is more than secure enough for phone storage, and can be opened with only one hand. On top of that, it’s made with best-in-class, waterproof, hyper-durable Ultra 200X fabric, and comes with a bonus exterior stretch mesh front pocket. The dual G-hook buckles are a no-fuss attachment system that will work on any daisy chain.
Teragon Pioneer Torque Stake
0.32 oz | $30 per stake (yes, you read that correctly)
Teragon Pioneer Torque are the new best-in-class tent stakes, adding a helical twist to their base model! These incredibly durable, 7.7″ Norwegian-made, 3D printed titanium stakes, topped off with Dyneema pull loops, have a better holding-power-to-weight ratio than anything we’ve ever seen before. Yes, they cost an arm and a leg. And the aluminum Y-stake you already own will get the job done perfectly well as-is. But! If you want to splurge on the highest performance option possible within a small but high leverage gear category, these are a good way to do it.
Mount to Coast H1
8.5 oz | $160
The Mount to Coast H1s are a gravel-trail-pavement hybrid, designed for versatility across all surfaces. They are incredibly lightweight, and have the comfiest, bounciest, most sustainable foam midsoles we’ve ever used. Perfect for crushing long cruisy trail days.
Big Agnes Pitchpine VST 1.5
27.1 oz | $650
Give its asymmetrical pitch, exterior pole, bulbous top vents, and dark gray + mint green color combo, Big Agnes Pitchpine VST 1.5 is undoubtedly the most unique tent in the mainstream outdoor brand’s lineup, and one of the most bizarre shelters we’ve ever seen. Weighing in at well under two pounds, it evokes the lengthwise exterior central pole setup of a semi-freestanding TarpTent Rainbow, in the asymmetrical shape and size of a Zpacks Plex Solo. Poled tents this light from have a long history of underperforming in the field, especially in high wind. If you pick one up, let us know how it does for you!
Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5
19.3 oz | $550
The second ambitious new addition to Big Agnes’ ultralight roster, String Ridge VST 1.5, takes on the size and shape of Zpacks Plex Solo, but adds a shorter secondary pole on the non-vestibule side to boost volume and ventilation above and beyond most other single wall solo tents. While the large side vent is certain to boost comfort, it adds setup complexity and leaves lots to be desired in terms of storm resistance; that face can never be pitched on the windward side. We look forward to testing this one out in fair weather conditions.
NEMO Eclipse All-Season
16.0 oz | $160
Assuming it holds up in the backcountry, NEMO Eclipse All-Season is primed to become the best buy among lightweight sleeping pads. With a whopping R-value of 6.2, a heavily dimpled surface, and four inches of thickness, it’s comfier than NeoAir and Tensor (though a 2-3 oz heavier), and $50 less expensive than the similarly specced Sea to Summit Ether Light XR.
Outdoor Vitals Vantage Alpine Down
15.2 oz | $275
Outdoor Vitals Vantage Alpine has the fourth highest warmth-to-weight ratio out of 24 lightweight parkas analyzed, yet was the single least expensive at just $275. It’s constructed with a nifty fabric called Zero Stitch™, which weaves the inner and outer shell together to form baffles where stitches would have been, thereby eliminating holes and increasing wind/tear resistance. This is a great buy for ultralight winter backpacking.
Gossamer Gear Mirage 40
19.4 oz | $450
Full frame Mirage 40 is the flagship design in Gossamer Gear’s new Alchemy line, a trio of ultralight packs made with best-in-class, mono-polymer, waterproof welded ALUULA Graflyte fabric. And wowza, 19.4 oz (or 20.8 oz with Alchemy Hip Belt Pockets added), is seriously impressive stuff, and even lighter than the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra series. Features include the carbon fiber X-frame with load lifters, a full suite of external pocket, curved trampoline back panel, and side compression straps.
Gossamer Gear Murmur 36
10.7 | $350
Gossamer Gear’s lightest frameless backpacking pack, the Murmur 36, just got a big overhaul, now “alchemized” with welded ALUULA Graflyte, a best-in-class mono-polymer fabric that outperforms Dyneema and Challenge ULTRA. Not only is the Murmur preposterously light, it’s also waterproof and even more durable than ever. This is a new contender for the best frameless super ultralight pack. Features include a removable torso pad, front mesh pocket and two side pockets; that’s it. Hip belt and pockets sold separately.
Gossamer Gear Elixir 20
6.2 oz | $225
Rounding out Gossamer Gear’s Alchemy roster is the Elixir 20, a super ultralight roll-top daypack weighing just 6.2 oz. Like Mirage and Murmur, it’s made with ALUULA Graflyte, a waterproof, welded, mono-polymer that outperforms both Dyneema and Challenge ULTRA. Feature include two cinchable side bottle pockets, and a front bungee to strap down your handiest layer.
New Ultralight Gear Log Conclusion
Thanks for reading our new ultralight gear release log, where we you hope you discovered exciting new cottage industry designs. Small manufaturers have always been at the cutting edge of ultralight gear design, and we hope that never changes. This post will be updated frequently, as new gear drops, but please leave us a comment if there is something you’d like to see featured.
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Hey! Thanks for the write-up! FYI you have the MSR Titan cup listed at $50 but at REI it’s $39.95 not on sale :)
Thanks! And good catch. Just corrected it.
The Durston Iceline poles are 2 piece, not 3 piece. I ordered a pair when first announced and they are crazy light but also stiff.
Depends on how you define “piece”. On Durston’s website, they’re referred to as the world’s lightest 3-piece poles, and that they operate like a 2-piece. Technically, he’s counting the connector as the third piece. But semantics. The are most certainly crazy light and stiff.
FYI, The links for the MSR products point to Toaks products.
Thanks, corrected.
The MSR Titan Kettle 900 is not $650, maybe $65.
And (at least for me) all the shopping Avantlinks are saying they’re broken.
David – Good catch, there was an errant zero in there! Thanks! Not seeing any issues on the links here, on mobile, desktop and via multiple browsers. Could have been a temp glitch that resolved before I looked though. Thanks for flagging! Everything seems good now from my perspective.
Yep, I get a 403 error on the links. Must be ad blockers.