Backpacker Magazine – March 2008

March 2008 Perfect System: Northwest

by: The Backpacker Editors, Photos by Sethhughes.com

Tags:
• Gear
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• Hiking
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• Camping
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• Ultralight
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• Hiking Boots
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• Climbing
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• Rain Gear
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• Gear List
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• Tents
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• Sleeping Bags
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Sleeping bag
The North Face Orion
When your bag gets damp, as it inevitably will, you won't lose sleep thanks to this sack's synthetic fill. The Orion is stuffed with ClimaShield Neo, a new high-loft insulation that we're finding warm and compressible. The bag is efficiently cut–snug below the hips, but with good wiggle room in the shoulders–and the 20°F temp rating proved spot-on for our warm sleepers. Available in men's and women's versions. $179; 2 lbs. 8 oz.; thenorthface.com

Insulation
REI Spruce Run Jacket
You need a synthetic puffy (down soaks up more water and dries more slowly), and this PrimaLoft One-filled model is more versatile than average. The sleeves zip off, creating a vest for mild temps. $149; 1 lb. 8 oz. (XL); men's sizes; rei.com

Tent
Black Diamond Oasis
You won't mind sitting out nasty weather in this tent, thanks to a 45-inch-high ceiling and generous floor plan that allowed even our 6'2" tester to stretch out. Good ventilation minimizes condensation. And a 12-square-foot vestibule keeps every bit of gear sheltered during downpours. $330; 5 lbs. 11 oz.; bdel.com

Boots
Kayland Convert
Eliminate wet feet with the mid-height Converts. The eVent membrane keeps water out, while outstanding breathability prevents sweat build-up. Tough suede uppers and stout midsoles protect feet and ankles, and grippy rubber outsoles provide great traction even on wet granite. They fit mid-volume feet best. $185; 2 lbs. 13 oz. (men's 9); kayland.com

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