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A good rucksack should feel like an extension of your body—distributing weight efficiently, keeping you comfortable, and ensuring easy access to essentials. Here’s how to choose the right one quickly and effectively.   1. Fit and Sizing A well-fitting rucksack makes all the difference. Measure your torso length (C7 vertebra to iliac crest) to find the right size. For more informa …

Choosing a lightweight tent can be difficult given the wide range available; we have a wide variety of tents, and we want to ensure you get the right tent for whatever adventures you have. So here are some of the things to consider when you are in the market for a new tent. Here at Ultralight outdoor gear, we weigh every tent ourselves; the manufacturer’s weight can sometimes be inaccurate, …

A good sleeping mat does more than add comfort—it insulates you from the cold ground, making it just as important as your sleeping bag. Here’s how to choose the right one in no time. Types of Sleeping Mats Not all sleeping mats are created equal. The right choice depends on your balance between comfort, weight, durability, and insulation. Inflatable: Lightweight, compa …

Few pieces of gear strike the same balance of protection, breathability, and weight savings—yet the humble windshell jacket remains one of the most overlooked. These minimalist jackets are a staple for those prioritising versatility and efficiency—a featherlight shell that can integrate into any layering system.

1. Down or Synthetic Insulation? Down: Lightweight and highly compressible, ideal for packing. Superior warmth-to-weight ratio. Loses insulation properties when wet unless treated with water-resistant down. More expensive but lasts longer with proper care. Synthetic: Retains warmth even when wet. Dries quickly and costs less than down. Bulky and heavier than down. Shorter lifespan with frequen …

Four-Season Review: Montane Alpine 850 Nano Down Hoodie From the chill of dawn on a springtime Scottish coast to the biting frost of winter in the Lakes, the Montane Alpine 850 Nano Down Hoodie has been with me every step of the way. Over the past year, it has become my go-to insulation layer, tackling everything from multi-day treks to daily hikes with unwavering reliability. Montane kindly p …

At Ultralight Outdoor Gear, we take pride in delivering the most accurate and detailed information about the gear we offer. We don’t just list specs—we weigh every product ourselves so you know precisely what you’re carrying. But we don’t stop there. To ensure you’re trail-ready, we also taste-test every dehydrated meal we sell. Over the past year, our team has meticulously tested and rated e …

If you’ve never tried dehydrated meals, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. These lightweight, compact options are the ultimate in trail cuisine, crafted to fuel your adventure without weighing you down. Packed with essential calories, protein, and carbohydrates, they’re ideal for multiday backpacking trips. Preparation couldn’t be more straightforward—just add water—and the best part? No dishes to …

Over the past year, our team has meticulously tested and rated each meal, scoring them out of 10 based on taste, texture, and hydration performance. Along the way, we’ve uncovered which meals need more (or less) water, which ones take extra time to hydrate, and, importantly, which ones we’re not so keen on. With this hard-earned insight, we’ve created a definitive guide to our fa …

At Ultralight, we’ve tested and reviewed the very best in hiking, camping, and outdoor gear to compile this definitive list. This year’s winners feature cutting-edge technologies, eco-friendly innovations, and user-focused designs that represent the pinnacle of outdoor excellence. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned adventurer, these award-winning products are sure to inspire your …

Wild camping is more than just a hobby; it’s an enriching and deeply rewarding experience that allows you to reconnect with nature in its most unfiltered form. Whether waking up to a breathtaking mountain sunrise, listening to the soothing sounds of a forest at night, or simply enjoying the solitude that only the wilderness can offer wild camping provides a unique escape from the everyday hus …

This is a guide to our local national trail, the Cleveland Way—the first long-distance path I completed and one that will always hold a special place in my heart. This captivating National Trail meanders through North Yorkshire’s diverse landscapes, spanning 109 miles from the charming market town of Helmsley to the picturesque seaside of Filey. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual exp …