Cost of Going Lighter

**Cabmanhang** · 09-20-2019, 17:16

Originally Posted by tessiea

Just threw together a lighterpack if anyone is interested. I'm sure I am missing some small items but this is where the bulk of my weight lies.

https://lighterpack.com/r/3fyvp5

Might also be worth noting that I am seriously considering an AT thru hike starting February 2020. This is the only reason I am considering any upgrades, otherwise I am completely happy where my pack weight is currently.

That's a good looking setup. You really have whittled down at all of the other components. It looks like your next leap to super ultralight will involve the insulation. Kudos. I hike around thirty pounds minimum.

**Brooklyn** · 09-20-2019, 17:29

Originally Posted by tessiea

Just threw together a lighterpack if anyone is interested. I'm sure I am missing some small items but this is where the bulk of my weight lies.

https://lighterpack.com/r/3fyvp5

Might also be worth noting that I am seriously considering an AT thru hike starting February 2020. This is the only reason I am considering any upgrades, otherwise I am completely happy where my pack weight is currently.

I couldn’t help but notice the underquilt at 27 oz. Wouldn’t that be cheaper upgrade than a topquilt? An HG Phoenix could save you 12 oz. add a sitpad for .98 oz. unless you’re married to full length.

**tessiea** · 09-20-2019, 17:32

Originally Posted by Brooklyn

I couldn’t help but notice the underquilt at 27 oz. Wouldn’t that be cheaper upgrade than a topquilt? An HG Phoenix could save you 12 oz. add a sitpad for .98 oz. unless you’re married to full length.

Definitely not married to full length as I already use a Phoenix in warmer months. Also already carrying a sit pad. Was considering upgrading to a premium partial underquilt and carry a torso length section of Z Lite through the Smokies on the AT in case I have to sleep in a shelter.

**erric** · 09-20-2019, 19:10

I understand where you're coming from and I've been looking at every cottage manufacturer trying to figure out which will get me the lightest replacement for my 24oz 800FP UGQ Bandit 20.

It's very close but I don't think it's possible to beat the LL Operator 20. In the size I'm looking for, with 7D fabric, it's around 16oz.

**erric** · 09-20-2019, 19:17

Also that's a fantastic baseweight, we're in the same range. Once you lighten up your insulation there won't be much left. You could lose a couple of oz by replacing your knife with sewing scissors or a derma safe razor and your headlamp with a litesmith NU-25 with the shock cord headband but now we're getting into the real nitty gritty toothbrush handle ultralight territory.

**MikekiM** · 09-20-2019, 20:29

Originally Posted by erric

Also that's a fantastic baseweight, we're in the same range. Once you lighten up your insulation there won't be much left. You could lose a couple of oz by replacing your knife with sewing scissors or a derma safe razor and your headlamp with a litesmith NU-25 with the shock cord headband but now we're getting into the real nitty gritty toothbrush handle ultralight territory.

Love the NU25.. I opted for the head band version and DIY'd the shock cord. The batteries last for a real long time, and it actually has a usable red lamp.

Agree on the knife.. I've gone smaller and smaller. Currently carrying a small Victorinox with a Dutch Hook on it, clipped to a neck lanyard.

Nice Hammock choice!! ;-)

**woodscavenger** · 09-22-2019, 09:26

I love the UL questions. For me I won’t spend $200 on a savings of only half a pound.....because in reality I could drop more than 20# if I stick to my diet and exercise!!

**Brooklyn** · 09-22-2019, 09:39

Originally Posted by woodscavenger

I love the UL questions. For me I won’t spend $200 on a savings of only half a pound.....because in reality I could drop more than 20# if I stick to my diet and exercise!!

This is certainly a popular thing to say, but it’s rarely followed and still not really relevant. Yes, overall you will weigh less, and that’s good, but 50 pounds on your back is still 50 pounds and not 10 or 20. Your shoulders, hips and back aren’t taxed as an ULer.

**Bobonli** · 09-22-2019, 10:25

Originally Posted by Brooklyn

This is certainly a popular thing to say, but it’s rarely followed and still not really relevant. Yes, overall you will weigh less, and that’s good, but 50 pounds on your back is still 50 pounds and not 10 or 20. Your shoulders, hips and back aren’t taxed as an ULer.

So true! I’m big into cycling and I constantly hear “these carbon wheels are xx pounds lighter than your alloy wheels for only $1300 each.” And I always say “ i’ll Just drink less coffee and soda and shed the weight off my frame.” But I never do.

I think the question of weight versus monetary cost really should be framed as : Will the investment bring meaning to your life, will you have a better time because you spent $$ to shave a couple of ounces? If you can’t answer that affirmatively then your money might be spent better elsewhere.

**Brooklyn** · 09-22-2019, 10:39

Originally Posted by Bobonli

So true! I’m big into cycling and I constantly hear “these carbon wheels are xx pounds lighter than your alloy wheels for only $1300 each.” And I always say “ i’ll Just drink less coffee and soda and shed the weight off my frame.” But I never do.

I think the question of weight versus monetary cost really should be framed as : Will the investment bring meaning to your life, will you have a better time because you spent $$ to shave a couple of ounces? If you can’t answer that affirmatively then your money might be spent better elsewhere.

Oh don’t get me started on rotational mass and bikes https://www.wired.com/2016/06/cyclin...-wheels-enemy/