Asics Top Impact Shorts

I’m super stoked about some new pieces of ultralight backpacking gear I got in the last few days. At 2.19 ounces, the Asics Top Impact shorts were the biggest drop from my gear weight in months. They’re incredibly comfortable but with their minimalist design, tend to be a little revealing. So far they’re the lightest shorts I could find and weigh in at little more than a Snickers bar. I guess I’ll just have to get used to all the ladies checking out my sexy white thighs.

 Saucony Peregrine 5 Shoes

3Sports triathlon shop in Richmond helped me out with these Saucony Peregrine 5 trail running shoes for my trip. While not the lightest option, I needed something durable and dependable enough to withstand the abuse of the Appalachian Trail and keep my feet well protected. Over the last few months I’ve enjoyed training in these shoes and super excited to have them as my primary footwear for my AT hike.

Arc’Teryx Sarix SS Shirt

My Arc’Teryx Sarix SS shirt that I picked up from Wild River Outfitters weighs in at a mere 2.5 ounces and is uber breathable. For the first two weeks of my trip I will be wearing a long sleeve shirt for the cooler weather and stretches above tree line. But I’m excited to switch into this shirt for the warmer temperatures on the southern AT.

Terra Nova Titanium Skewers

Terra Nova is known for making ridiculously lightweight gear but these stakes take it to a new level. At 1 gram each, the whole set of 6 stakes weighs slightly more than one Starburst candy. In almost all conditions they’re going to act in conjunction with stones, roots, and trees but it’s nice to have something that could potentially stand alone on calm nights.