Live Ultralight Podcast | Backpacking, Travel, and Adventure

The Outdoor Vitals Expanse Sleeping Bag is a roomy, hoodless ultralight down sleeping bag built for side sleepers and anyone who moves at night. In this Live Ultralight Podcast episode, Tayson Whittaker and OV lead designer Brigham Crane cover the full design story, a couple years of prototypes and field testing, and every feature of the Expanse. Expanse Sleeping Bag: https://bit.ly/4iJwgG4 Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! "I just flat out had some of the best nights of sleep I've ever had in the backcountry sleeping in this bag." - Tayson Whittaker CHAPTERS 0:00 Introducing the Expanse Sleeping Bag 2:16 The late night in the mountains that started the Expanse 7:03 Designing for sleep quality, side sleepers, and less fiddle factor 10:59 What people want from a sleeping bag: foot room and simplicity 13:13 Why the Expanse is hoodless 15:06 Half-length zipper and a roomier cut 17:32 Why 900 fill power Muscovy down 19:27 Extra room means cold spots: the interior cinch cord solution 23:16 Why a smaller space stays warmer: the heater analogy 26:07 Prototype one: what testers found 33:09 Refining the draft collar, zipper, baffles, and elastic cords 36:45 Why the Long size gets a third cinch cord 39:30 Top to bottom walkthrough of the Expanse 41:36 How roomy is it? Mild taper vs mummy and rectangular bags 43:37 Symmetrical design and top quilt mode 45:20 Field testing: warmth, simplicity, and sleep quality 52:30 Cold sleepers, kids, and friends in the Expanse 54:58 The tradeoff: about 5 oz heavier than a top quilt 58:20 Specs, weights, and 2027 temperature ratings 1:01:25 ExpeDRY down and 900 fill power explained 1:05:00 Wrap-up and how to send questions HOW THE EXPANSE WAS TESTED Through development, the Expanse was the design team's only sleep system, year round, in every condition. Every temperature rating was slept at and below its rating. In the 15°F model, Brigham only added extra layers once temps dropped to around 9 to 12°F. EXPANSE SLEEPING BAG SPECS Available now: 15°F comfort rating (comfortable at the rating, not survivable), Regular 72" (1 lb 13 oz) and Long 77" (2 lb), bag only Coming in 2027: 30°F (1 lb 7.7 oz, Regular) and 0°F (2 lb 6 oz, Regular) Insulation: 900 fill power ExpeDRY Muscovy down Shell and lining: 10D nylon DWR treated Zipper: half-length YKK No. 5 coil with draft tubes and anti-snag webbing Inside width: 30" shoulder to hip, 27.5" at the knee, 13.5" minimum footbox Room: about 50% more at the knee and 40%+ more in the footbox than some of our own mummy bags Baffles: horizontal and vertical, with added baffles below the knee to keep down in place Interior elastic cinch cords: 2 in Regular (knee and foot), 3 in Long Cinchable draft collar, inner snap at the top of the zipper Dry bag (1.5 oz) and storage bag (4 oz) included EXPANSE SLEEPING BAG FAQ Is the Expanse good for side sleepers? Yes. The Expanse Sleeping Bag was designed for side sleepers who roll through the night. The down is distributed symmetrically with no top or bottom side, so the bag stays equally warm wherever it twists or the zipper ends up. How do the cinch cords inside the Expanse work? Thin elastic cords run around the inside of the lower bag. Cinching them shrinks the space your body has to heat, without squeezing the down from the outside. Most nights you leave them open. They are there for nights colder than expected. Why is the Expanse hoodless? A beanie, jacket hood, or balaclava does the job with less weight, and lets you choose your head layer trip by trip. The hoodless, symmetrical design also lets you unzip the Expanse and drape it like a quilt on warm nights. Expanse Sleeping Bag or a top quilt? At 15°F Regular, the Expanse is about 5 oz heavier than the StormLoft Down TopQuilt. Choose the quilt if lowest weight is the priority. Choose the Expanse if you want to crawl in with no pad straps, roll without any possibility of drafts, and have room to move. What is ExpeDRY™ down? ExpeDRY™ is a permanent nano gold treatment on the down that helps moisture evaporate faster, so the down keeps its loft through humid, multi-night trips. Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi

In this episode of the Live Ultralight Podcast, Tayson and Brigham introduce Special Projects, a new Outdoor Vitals program created to design gear for narrow, high-stakes problems in small batches instead of chasing broad appeal. They cover the goals of the program, its origins and the first Special Projects' release: The Resolve Down Anorak. Topics we cover: 1. What is the goal of Outdoor Vitals' new "Special Projects" program? 2. Who is the Resolve Down Anorak meant for? 3. Dual zippers versus single zippers for heat retention. 4. When will the Resolve Down Anorak be released? (Window) Chapters: 00:00 - Introducing Special Projects 07:54 - Origin of the Resolve Down Anorak 13:39 - Box Baffle Sleeping Bag Construction 17:08 - Why Develop an Anorak? 28:20 - Heavy-Duty Hardware & Zipper Details 31:10 - Kangaroo Pocket & Internal Drop Storage 32:25 - Hood Baffling & Body Coverage 38:56 - Down Specs and Treatment 40:46 - Fabrics 42:24 - Total Weight, Packability, & Warmth-to-Weight 46:38 - Field Testing in 70 MPH Winds 49:36 - Ideal Temperature & Weather Conditions 54:57 - Colors, Sizing, & Pre-Sale Details Click here to sign up to get notified when the Resolve Down Anorak launches: https://bit.ly/4xKIeUq How to Submit Questions Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi

What crossover does ultralight backpacking have with backcountry hunting? In this episode of Ask OV, we cover the crossover and how to use it; wisdom learned from the tradeoffs; and how to maintain your mind while you're on trail. Things we cover in this episode: - What weight threshold requires a heavy-duty hunting pack over an ultralight pack? - How do you reduce backpack weight when carrying gear for family or kids? - Can you use an ultralight backpacking tent for late-season backcountry hunting? - How often should you take breaks when backpacking uphill? - How do you apply an ultralight (UL) mentality to backcountry hunting gear? - What are the strategic trade-offs of using a sub-2-pound spotting scope? - Is it better to push through gear durability concerns or buy heavier hunting clothes? - How do I know if my body is actually fatigued or if my brain is trying to make me quit? - What is the difference between taking a break and quitting on the trail? - How do you prevent yourself from taking too many impulsive breaks while hiking? - What should I do if I want to quit my thru-hike or backpacking trip due to exhaustion? Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to the Ask OV Podcast 01:05 - Pack Weight Thresholds: Ultralight vs. Sturdy Hunting Packs 07:04 - Favorite Hunting and Hauling Packs Outside the OV Line 0 7:36 - Applying Ultralight Concepts to Backcountry Hunting 15:52 - Evaluating Lightweight Gear vs. Durability in the Field 22:54 - The Mental Side of Hiking: Overcoming Psychological Limits 28:07 - How the Body Lies: Recognizing Dehydration, Cramping, and Fatigue 35:01 - Taking Purposeful Breaks vs. Quitting How to Submit Questions Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi

Every year we have the privilege of hosting the OV 100 Mile Challenge, a DIY challenge helping participants to get out and backpack 100 miles in one summer. Our team participates as well. This year, we did around 110 miles starting at Tennessee Pass on the Colorado Trail and ending at Buffalo Creek. What we cover in this episode: - An introduction to our new Design Assistant, Lucy - A day by day account of what to expect on sections 4-8 (and some of 3) of the Colorado Trail - Trail conditions on the Colorado Trail between Tennessee Pass and Breckenridge - Highway noise on the Colorado Trail - Footwear on the trail - Best practices for blister and foot care on the trail - How to optimize food space in your pack - Pacing for a 100-mile thru-hike - Headache prevention at over 10,000 feet Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to the 100-Mile Challenge 01:12 - Introducing Lucy 04:37 - Route Pivot Due to Fire 08:11 - Day 1 - Warning Signs (Early Injuries) 24:00 - Day 2 - The Mental Low Point and Highway Underpass Dinners 38:47 - Day 3 - Chasing Water Seeps and Shelter from the Storm 53:38 - Day 4 - Trail Magic, Soda Craves, and Hot Sagebrush Clearings 01:01:39 - Day 5 - Home Stretch 01:06:12 - Final Reflections and Takeaways How to Submit Questions Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi

In this episode of Ask OV we dive into fan questions; discussing water filters in the winter, navigating dry stretches, calorie demands on trail, and more. Things we cover in this episode: How do you keep a backpacking water filter from freezing in winter? Can I use a water filter in the winter? How do backpackers get water in the winter without a filter? Are springs on topographic/trail maps reliable? What do dotted or dashed blue lines mean on a map? How many calories do I need per day for backpacking? Chapters: 00:00 – Intro & Summer Trip Recaps 02:45 – Managing Water Filters in Winter & Shoulder Seasons 09:24 – Navigating Water Logistics & Map Reliability 26:01 -- Calorie Demands & Individualized Food Planning 33:46 -- Outro & How to Submit Questions Submit Your Questions: We regularly answer listener questions about backpacking gear, trip logistics, and real-world experiences on the trail. Email: Send your questions to [support@outdoorvitals.com](mailto:support@outdoorvitals.com). Voice Message: Leave an audio question through our SpeakPipe link: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Web Chat: Reach out through the chat widget on the Outdoor Vitals website. Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi

In this episode of the Live Ultralight Podcast, the team addresses common challenges backpackers face on extended trips, including managing caloric intake, improving backcountry sleep, and troubleshooting equipment failures. Drawing from recent field experience, this discussion provides practical strategies for solving real-world problems before they disrupt your next trip. Key Topics Covered: Colorado Trail Planning Update: Details on how the upcoming OV 100 route is being adjusted due to the Willow Fire near Leadville, along with considerations for navigating trail closures and changing conditions. Backpacking Nutrition Strategy: A discussion on managing caloric needs, avoiding food fatigue, and planning meals that remain appealing throughout a longer trip. Repackaging Freeze-Dried Meals: Practical methods for reducing food volume and packaging weight, plus simple integrity checks that can help identify damaged or compromised meals before heading into the backcountry. Improving Backcountry Sleep: Advice for adjusting sleeping pad firmness, accommodating side sleepers, controlling drafts, and using extra clothing or equipment to level uneven campsites. Troubleshooting Water Filters: An explanation of how trapped air bubbles can restrict flow in hollow-fiber filters, along with field-tested techniques for restoring performance and removing excess water. Episode Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction & Ask OV Overview 01:02 — Summer Trail Updates & Navigating the Colorado Trail Fire Closures 03:59 — Backpacking Food Strategy: Managing Caloric Needs & Preventing Food Fatigue 08:20 — Repackaging Freeze-Dried Meals & Conducting Field Integrity Checks 10:51 — Sleep Systems: How to Limit Base Weight While Maximizing Rest 11:23 — Selecting and Adjusting Sleeping Pads for Side Sleepers 13:42 — Managing Drafts & Using Layering Systems for Backcountry Warmth 18:33 — Practical Hacks for Leveling Out Uneven Campsites 19:49 — Backpacking Pillows: Customizing Fit and Height 22:33 — Troubleshooting Water Filter Failures: The Science of Trapped Air Bubbles 25:17 — Field Hacks for Clearing Trapped Air & Restoring Filter Flow 27:54 — Water Filter Care: Shaking vs. Flinging Excess Water 30:54 — Outro & How to Submit Listener Questions Submit Your Questions: We regularly answer listener questions about backpacking gear, trip logistics, and real-world experiences on the trail. Email: Send your questions to [support@outdoorvitals.com](mailto:support@outdoorvitals.com). Voice Message: Leave an audio question through our SpeakPipe link: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Web Chat: Reach out through the chat widget on the Outdoor Vitals website. Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi

In this solo episode of the Live Ultralight Podcast, Tayson marks the 12th anniversary of Outdoor Vitals by detailing the brand's evolution from a college startup to a successful creator of performance-first ultralight backpacking gear. This discussion serves as a comprehensive update for the hiking community on company growth, technical product development, and the future of remote wilderness equipment. Key Topics Covered: The Transition to Performance-First Ultralight: An analysis of how the brand shifted its mission from "Opening the Outdoors" via affordable entry-level gear to developing high-performance equipment specifically for remote wilderness and high-mountain environments. Expansion of Women's Specific Gear: Details on the strategic hire of a second designer to focus on refining and expanding the women's technical apparel and gear lines. Product Innovation Pipeline: A preview of upcoming limited edition innovation drops for late fall 2026 and a development update on the highly anticipated CIRC two-person tent. Inventory & Logistics Strategy: Insights into how the company has significantly increased inventory levels to reduce stockouts on popular items like the Mountain Pursuit line and Shadowlight backpacks. Founders Day Sale Details: Information on the biggest sale this summer plus a GIVEAWAY announcement. Episode Chapters: 0:00 – 12th Anniversary Reflection and Opening 1:11 – Company Origins: From College Idea to Direct-to-Consumer Model 3:15 – Evolving Gear Philosophy: Focusing on Backcountry Performance 5:34 – Internal Milestones: Approaching 10-Year Employee Anniversaries 6:41 – The OV 100-Mile Challenge: Impact of the DIY Backpacking Program 9:13 – Product Retrospective: Mountain Pursuit, Backpacks, and Zulu Down 12:27 – Long-Term Growth: The Power of Sticking to a Single Vision 16:52 – Design Philosophy: Why We Build for High-Mountain Wilderness 21:17 – Strategic Hires: Expanding Capabilities in the Women's Gear Category 24:03 – Content Strategy: Renewed Focus on On-Trail Video and Education 25:24 – 2026 Sneak Peek: Late-Year Releases and Innovation Drops 28:22 – Development Roadmap: CIRC 2-Person Tent Status 29:34 – Founder's Day Sale: Black Friday Savings in June Gear Mentioned in This Episode: Shadowlight Backpack: https://bit.ly/4opNN7x Carbon Evo Backpack: https://bit.ly/4xnnB1n Altura Pants: https://bit.ly/4gf6Cbw Vantage Alpine Jacket: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/vantage-alpine-down-jacket?_pos=1&_psq=vantage&_ss=e&_v=1.0&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=link Pursuit Hoodie: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/pursuit-hybrid-fleece?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=link Zulu Down Jacket: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/zulu-down-jacket?_pos=1&_psq=zulu&_ss=e&_v=1.0&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=link Circ 1-Person Tent: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/cirq-trekking-pole-tent?_pos=1&_psq=cirq&_ss=e&_v=1.0&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=link

Are you planning a bucket-list trip to Coyote Gulch, Utah? In this episode, the team breaks down everything you need to know for a successful backpacking adventure in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. We dive deep into the ultimate footwear debate: Can you really backpack 25+ miles in sandals, or are trail runners the only way to go? What you'll learn in this video: Logistics & Permits: Why you don't need a permit but MUST bring wag bags. The Approach: How to navigate the brutal Hole in the Rock Road to reach the Hurricane Wash trailhead. Iconic Landmarks: Detailed looks at Jacob Hamlin Arch, Coyote Natural Land Bridge, and Steven's Arch. Gear Testing: Real-world results of using Leukotape for blisters in wet environments and the pros/cons of cotton vs. polyester sun hoodies. Canyon Safety: Why you should always check water depth before cliff jumping and how to handle desert "critters" like scorpions and spiders. Whether you're a seasoned ultralight backpacker or planning your first desert trek near Escalante, these insights will help you avoid painful blisters and maximize your time in one of Utah's most beautiful canyons. Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi

What's the difference between a backpacking water filter and a purifier? Why do we keep coming back to the Platypus QuickDraw? And how do you make shorter backpacking trips more comfortable without overpacking? In this Ask OV episode of the Live Ultralight Podcast, we answer listener questions about backpacking water filters, carbon fiber framed backpacks, comfort camping, and why Outdoor Vitals often prioritizes hooded jackets first. We cover practical trail-tested tips for keeping filters flowing fast, choosing the right backpack frame stiffness, and adding small luxuries like chairs, hammocks, games, tarps, and better camp food without losing the benefits of an ultralight setup. Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi Carbon Evo 50 Backpack: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/cs40-ultralight-backpack?_pos=1&_psq=cs40&_ss=e&_v=1.0&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=link Platypus Quickdraw (Live Ultralight Membership required): https://outdoorvitals.com/products/platypus-quickdraw-1l-microfilter-system?_pos=2&_psq=platypus&_ss=e&_v=1.0&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=link #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear

In this session of "Ask OV", Tayson and Brigham share some insider info that you aren't going to want to miss! Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear

Join Tayson & Tyler as they go into the difference switching from one trail shoe to another can ACTUALLY make... Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear

Join Tayson & Tyler as they go into how to know if you're ready to hike 20 miles in a day, & what all the resources are that will help you get there. OV 100 Mile Challenge 2026 Registration: https://bit.ly/4rv0EFw Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear

Join Tayson & Brigham for an in-depth look at the features, function, & design of the new Cirq Trekking Pole Tent. This 1p tent is more spacious, more ventilated, & easier to pitch. Watch this episode to learn why! Cirq Trekking Pole Tent (launching Mar 23, 2026) Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear

Join Tayson & Brigham for an in-depth look at the features, function, & design of the Carbon Evo 50 Backpack. This is one of our lightest and most comfortable backpacks! Carbon Evo 50 Backpack (launching Feb 23, 2026): https://bit.ly/4aSHdkN Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear

Join Tayson & Brigham for an in-depth look at the features, function, & design of the Zulu Down jacket. This is our LIGHTEST down jacket yet... Zulu Down Jacket: https://bit.ly/4baLPn6 Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear

In this session of "Ask OV", Tayson and Brigham share some insider info that you aren't going to want to miss! Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear

In this session of "Ask OV", Tayson and Brigham share some insider info that you aren't going to want to miss! Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear

In this session of "Ask OV", Tayson and Brigham talk about our BRAND NEW Vantage Alpine Down Jacket & compare it to other jackets. Get answers on how to look at jacket warmth levels in general, what backpack capacity you really need, & more. Listen to find out more! Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear

Join Tayson & Brigham for an in-depth look at the features, function, & design of the Vantage Alpine Down Jacket. This is our WARMEST jacket yet & weighs less than 16 oz... Vantage Alpine Down Jacket: https://bit.ly/3IEDwE3 Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear

Our lead product designer and our founder discuss the design of our latest backpack & all the unique features, functions, & upgrades it come with! Shadowlight Carbon 60 Backpack: https://bit.ly/4p8zLal Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear