EP 204: Ask OV 10 - Why Go Ultralight (Even WITHOUT Big Miles On Trail)
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In this episode of the Live Ultralight Podcast, hosts discuss a range of listener questions centered on gear performance, pack weight, and the philosophy of ultralight backpacking—especially for older adventurers. A key theme emerges around the misconception that ultralight is only for young, high-mileage hikers. The hosts passionately argue that reducing pack weight benefits everyone, regardless of age or mileage, by improving comfort, reducing injury risk, and extending the longevity of outdoor activity. They share personal stories, including how lightening their parents' packs enabled continued backpacking despite age-related health challenges. Practical advice is given on gear comparisons—like the Vantage and Nova Pro jackets—and packing strategies, such as using puffy jackets to fill voids in packs. The episode also addresses time estimates for long hikes (around 12 hours for 20–25 miles) and recommends the Carbon Evo pack as a versatile choice for both day hikes and weekend backpacking trips. The hosts close with excitement about the OV100 Mile Challenge, now with over 1,000 participants, encouraging listeners to join and stay active in the outdoors.
Ultralight backpacking isn't just for young, high-mileage hikers—it's a tool for comfort, safety, and longevity at any age.
Reducing pack weight by even a few pounds (e.g., switching to a lighter tent, sleeping bag, or pack) can dramatically improve the experience for older or injury-prone backpackers.
The Vantage and Nova Pro jackets compress similarly despite differences in fill power and down volume; the Zulu jacket is noticeably more packable.
A 25-mile day typically takes about 12 hours, including breaks, with active hiking time averaging around 8–9 hours at 2–3 mph.
The Carbon Evo pack is ideal for both day hiking and weekend backpacking due to its balance of capacity, organization, and compressibility.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome & Introduction to Ask OV 10
The hosts welcome listeners to another Ask OV episode, introduce Brigham, the lead product designer, and set the tone for a conversational, informal Q&A session. They encourage listeners to submit questions via YouTube or customer support.
Vantage vs. Nova Pro Jacket Compression
“In my mind, put them very similar to each other. Zulu has definitely an edge in that compression.”
Ultralight for Older Backpackers: A Philosophical Shift
“My goal is to be as light as I can as I get older so that I can continue to do the activity and continue to—because like your risk of injury if you're on the lighter weight side of things goes down.”
Real-World Examples: Lightening the Pack for Longevity
“That has for the last number of years been a, been an enabler for her to keep coming on these backpacking trips.”
Time Estimates & Pack Recommendations
The hosts clarify that a 25-mile day typically takes about 12 hours, including breaks. They debate the ideal all-in-one pack, ultimately recommending the Carbon Evo for its versatility across day hikes and weekend trips, while acknowledging the Fast Pack as a viable option for ultra-light purists.
“My goal is to be as light as I can as I get older so that I can continue to do the activity and continue to—because like your risk of injury if you're on the lighter weight side of things goes down.”
“I want to be 73 like you and I want to be hiking 24 miles over two days. Seriously. That's, that's awesome.”
“It's not black and white that like there's ultra light gear and there's not an ultra light gear. There's like... I just look on this like there's just a curve.”
Host
Guest
Brigham
person
Carbon Evo Pack
product
Vantage Jacket
product
Nova Pro Jacket
product
OV100 Mile Challenge
other
Zulu Jacket
product
Altitude Tee
product
Fast Pack
product
Pursuit Fleece
product
Outdoor Vitals
organization
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