Hiking in Finland

Interview: Jan Betros of Röjk

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik M) — Tue, 15 May 2012 13:15:00 +0000

Today I am interviewing Jan Betros from Sweden, Founder of Röjk. Röjk is a young company which makes garments that are very functional, stylish and have proper ethical and sustainable credentials. In this interview Jan highlights how he started the company, the ideas that drive his designs and what we can expect in the future from Röjk!

Jan, please briefly introduce yourself and tell us who you are. Since when are you backpacking & bikepacking, and how did you start?
I am rased and born in Stockholm near the archipelagos, mountains, sea and nature was always close. I spent my youth as a professional gymnast and finally when I was 21 I moved to Annecy in the French Alps to spend time for hiking, skiing, rock climbing and cycling. For five years I was backpacking and skiing around the world and earned my living by working in ski- and mountainshops. My interest for making innovative sportswear grew and finally I started my studies at University of Derby with Performance Sportswear Design. With the help of my seamstress grandmother in Sweden I made my first prototype of the Tvister Helmet Hood who in 2007 won the Innovation For Extremes Prize for best design and innovation. After the award I got a lot of publicity and the brand RÖJK SUPERWEAR was introduced to the market in fall 2009.

How often are you outdoors hiking, skiing or backpacking nowadays?
Unfortunately not as often as I used to, but at least I get to make awesome gear for everyone who spends time in the outdoors :)

Are you more of a "weekend hiker" or do you have some long distance trips under your belt?
Nowadays I am more of a weekend hiker because of a lot of work but I always plan at least one or two long backpacking trips every year.

Which category would you put yourself in: SUL, UL, Lightweight or Bushcraft*? What is your typical baseweight?
Well as weekend hiker I hike rather light, average is around 30 - 45 liters but for my backpacking trips where I am aways for at least 2 or 3 month I carry 60-70 liters.

Please tell us where the name "Röjk" came from, and what it stands for.
RÖJK is a shortage for RÖJÅK which is an expression for the PERFECT RIDE. It's all about the perfect ride and making things perfect :)

Röjk designs functional garments, which are Made in Portugal & Sweden. Can you tell us how the idea to start the company emerged and how you see its future?
Röjk makes innovative and attractive garments. We make all our garments in Portugal, all beanies and socks in Sweden. The idea for Röjk is to make garments that look good, with versatile use. For example our Helmet Hood can be used for running, skiing, hiking and cycling. Our liner socks can be used for hiking, skiing, running, cycling and with jeans or a suit instead of a cotton sock! We will continue so make more versatile garments mainly for the average people, backpackers and for everyone who likes to spend time int the outdoors. Garments will include running, light hiking, cycling, yoga, backpacking, travelling, surfing, and for everyone who enjoys the good things in life :)

What makes Röjk different from other outdoor companies?
Well many things actually, first of all we are a small and independent company and they are big companies! We are focusing on the average person who is not particularly a top athlete but who likes adventures and sports but wants something that is of great quality and good looking as well. The old and big outdoor brands are focusing on the hardcore user and uses the term "Outdoor" but for us we are the new and next generation and we are focusing on "what is now" and we rather use the term Backpacker and Adventurer. I try to find gaps rather than making things that already exists.

Your company makes its garments in Europe, and uses recyclable materials, so does pretty well in environmental terms. What brought this decision on?
Well I thought that if I want to make garments that are suitable for spending most time in nature then of course I should try to be nice to nature. Simple as that :)

Röjk is starting to get more exposure in outdoor blogs lately; how about magazines, are they featuring your goods?
We have only been on the market for 3 years and things are going fast. We have not been active with making press releases etc. - mostly because we wanted to make the company grow a little bit by itself. Now and then we can see our stuff in both national and international magazines, it's great that they chose our stuff and to write good things about us.

Can you tell us a bit how you went about the design process of the Tvister Hoody, and where the inspiration came from?
I wanted to develop the ultimate and versatile hoody of all time, something that no one else had made and so simply that it would make the big brands wonder why they never thought of that, and so I did :). I started to put on many different layers of tops from layer 1 to layer 3 and eliminated everything that was uncomfortable such as zips, pockets, seams on wrong places and finally I narrowed it down to what i need and do not need in my hoody. Finally the design of the garment had tvisted arms, a balaclava shaped hood that can be used under a helmet and thereof the name. When I was done with the construction I thought I would make the design different and something that everyone can recognize and I made the asymmetrical colors.

You use a lot of bright colours in your garments, and aren't afraid to mix it up. This and your garments asymmetric seams make Röjk garments stand out. Are you do this to simply differentiate yourself, or what's the story behind these?
Well at first I understood that I have to stand out and I wanted people to see what a Röjk garment is without having to see the name. I thought that why would the shops want to buy Röjk if it looks like everything else so I would be more safe by standing out rather than not standing out. And in the end of the day I want to make garments that I like to wear :)

Jan, we love to be let in on the work-in-progress stuff! Can you let us know what kind of new products you're working on at the moment?
Well, we are developing our first spring/ summer range that will be on the markets spring 2014 which will include bikewear, running and backpacking. And for next fall we have developed some cool compression garments and more hoodys and T-shirts in merino wool, I love hoodys and t-shirts and can't have enough of them :)

Any new lightweight materials that have you all excited?
There's so many but I am working really close with PrimaLoft right now to develop a lightweight range in PrimaLoft.

How works the R&D at Röjk, do you have a need yourself that you try to fix, or do some of your clients inspire you for new products and ask you for solutions to their problems?
So far it has been mostly me finding new solutions but as we grow we are getting a lot of feedback and many requests. We also have our friends who we call "Superheros", they are professional athletes who can test our garments and new developments on an intense way and give us a great feedback.

Where do your customer come from?
Tricky question, it varies a lot but mostly from they're adventurers, backpackers and the average person who is off for a short trip and wants something really good & attractive!

Do you think the lightweight backpacking principles will become more popular and break into the mass market, or will it continue to be something for a small group of people?
I think it is growing and more people are asking for it, however I think that the demand is higher than the supply.

Are you in touch with other smaller manufacturers in Europe, the USA, Japan, and other places?
Not really as we have not had the time really to focus on others but we have plans on working more close with other small manufacturers.

What is your own favorite backpack, sleep system and shelter?
I just bought an OSPREY Exos 58 wich will be perfect for my shorter trips, I have a Hilleberg Nallo 2 GT and Thermarest NeoAir Xlite. I have so much gear for different occasions.

Any other favourite piece of gear which you always carry with you?
I'm a bit of a gear-nerd and I have many bit's and pieces :)

When and where was your last backpacking/ skiing/ bikepacking trip?
This March I went with a friend to Switzerland for one week to ski. It was great, we stayed in a French town called Bulle and everyday we went to a new place to ski. Last summer I went to Australia for three months. First I went skiing for 2 months in the snowy mountains of NSW and then went off backpacking and rock climbing for a month. I also have a big crush on Portugal and I go there at least five times every year mainly for the manufacturing of our great garments and while I'm there I go for backpacking, surfing, rock climbing and I enjoy the nice wine :)

And where is your dream backpacking/ skiing/ bikepacking trip taking you?
I really need to go back to New Zeeland and see all of it. I plan to go to Patagonia this fall to go rock climbing and I want to ski in Japan, damn so many places I still need to explore and lets not forget about Finland, I need to see more of Finland as well.

Are you planning to get out for a trip soon, and enjoy the Swedish spring?
Yes, me and my girlfriend are first going hiking Kungsleden in the north of Sweden for a week, then I'm going with some friends to Riksgränsen to celebrate Swedish midsummer and do some late spring skiing. We are also going to Portugal for two months to do some backpacking, surfing and take a language course in Portuguese. Besides from these plans I always have many spontaneous trips going, live is good :)

Jan, I thank you very mucho for taking the time to answer my questions =) Is there something you would like to add?
Thank you and I'm glad you like what we are doing and dont forget to LIKE us on Facebook to keep up on what we are doing next and spread the word about us :)

The Week In Review

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik M) — Sun, 13 May 2012 16:05:00 +0000

Happy Mother's Day!

Great news from Moonlight Gear in Japan - they now accept international orders! Now you can very easily order the very cool Japanese UL cottage gear, like Sanpo's CF Stove!

Trekking-Lite-Store.com now has a blog, in which it keeps you up-to-date about new gear they have on offer and other relevant news.

Check out the Backcountry.com Outlet Sale Page[Affiliate Link]

FieldCandy makes tents in the UK. At 6.3 kg they're ultraheavy, but their flysheets are really awesome if you like good design - check them out, there's more than the sheep underneath!

How about winning a Salsa Mukluk Ti bicycle and an Alaskan beach-riding adventure with the Salsa crew? Then enter their video contest!

If You're Not Pissing Someone Off, You're Probably Not Innovating.

Simplicity.

Living Life True.

Broke people like backpacking too! Recommended read.

The Backcountry Boiler is back.

Making Time To Do Nothing.

Trekking Poles: Crutches for the Modern Man.

Sleeping bags for kids.

Need more reasons to join us in Slovenia for the UL Summit? Check out these three otherworldly Caves in Slovenia.

Call of the wild: the genesis of a walk.

Fraser's bikepacking trip report from Abernethy, Glenmore & Sluggan Pass Circuit has beautiful images and narrative and hence is a recommended read & see!

Peter had a May overnighter with his sons. A beautiful & inspiring trip.

Allison hikes The Ruckels.

13 Days of Lava Coast ~~cycling~~ fatbiking & packrafting come to an end. Now we're just waiting for the movie to drop.

Robin was in Dartmoor.

Joe is in a Indefensible position.

Kim celebrates Day 11 on the Pacific Crest Trail.

Sabine is a bit further ahead, at Day 15 and Mile 211, to be precise.

Dave celebrates The Highlife on Troms Day 4.

Three Roam the Dales: Andrew, Martin and Terry meet up for a trip.

Shop at the Official GoPro® Store[Affiliate Link]

Alex had a hazy wild camp on Grasmoor.

More Coco-di-loco. More bikepacking awesomeness from Cass.

Matthew had his first wild camp and is Drawing the Line.

Linda is still skiing.

Mera Peak - Day 12, Summit Day.

Sandwich Dome and Jennings Peak.

Gravel Pimp – Extreme Recon.

Parkway Redux.

Monday is for camping.

Don has a useful Alpacka PackRaft Plug Keeper Mod for the packrafters.

Zed has hauling his ZPacks Blast for ten more days.

Jack and Brian show off the Hoboroll by Gobi Gear.

Beans & Rice as trail food.

Stick compares his new MLD 475 mug to several other cups and cook pots.

Hoop Stove.

Montura Core Jacket.

Cree 5w LED headtorch.

Sale & Clearance Items at REI.com! Save Big.[Affiliate Link]

Did you enjoy this post? Then you absolutely should follow me on Twitter.

Snippet: UL Summit Update

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik M) — Wed, 09 May 2012 07:23:00 +0000

Just a short update on the Ultralight Summit 2012.

The date is set, and the event kicks off on the 30th of July and runs for a week. We have a local contact which helps with planning, and our route will be superb (a three day ridge walk, summiting the highest mountain of Slovenia, do I need to say more?). More on this in the future, as we proceed; the same goes for the rest of the programme.

Most important: Read the Update on Logistics to get an idea about flights or trains to Slovenia (there is a possibility that some travel from Germany to Slovenia by car & could pick people up along the way, if that's the case I'll inform about it). Finnair has a summer campaign which offers flights to Ljubljana for 249€, which might be of interest to those in the north. You're wise to book flights soon, as they just get more expensive the longer you wait.

I'm very excited about the event, and look forward to meet fellow UL & lightweight backpacking aficionados from Japan, Australia, the USA, Europe and many more countries!

On Weight: While the event is called "Ultralight Summit" you don't need to be an ultralight backpacker to participate; you can carry as much or as little as you want, and there is no one weighing backpacks at the start to check if one may join or not =) This is a free-for-all event, doesn't cost anything, and aims at strengthening the global UL community, making new friends, and hiking in a beautiful place.

The Week In Review

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik M) — Sun, 06 May 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Lost for words, but will have more to say soon =)

A Hiker's Guide to Healing.

Check out the REI Coupons & Rebates [Affiliate Link]

Take your kids rock climbing!

Stunning photos of a White Surly Pugsley throughout a year.

A Roadmap to mountain writing.

Sheila celebrates World Book Night by leaving books in Rothiemurchus and Plodda Falls. Awesome idea!

The Truth About Hammock Camping: Claim #2 – Hammocks Are Comfortable.

A visual report from the UTFT I.

Want to gain packrafting white water skills? Visit the packrafting WW training course in Germany!

Mark has that sinking feeling between the seasons.

Joery was hiking the Müllerthal trail and found idyllic waterfalls and fairytale rock corridors.

Gavin went on a overnight ski mountaineering trip in the Cairngorms.

Gareth and family went walking in the wettest April in 100 years.

Roger doesn't look a gift horse in the mouth.

Sonja visits Malacara Volcano in Argentina.

Sabi enjoys the first few days on the PCT.

Paul hikes the Dow Crag via the South Rake.

Sam went for a packrafting overnighter in Beartrap Canyon.

Black sand, plenty of bears, packrafts, fatbikes: Lava Coast.

Helen is hanging with the boyfriend.

Bikepacking in Ireland.

Michael finds it is anything but grey in the Grey Corries

10 days of bike packing In Africa - gorgeous photos.

James is above the clouds on the Buachaille.

Il Dolce Far Niente spent two days Hiking Trip in Liesjarvi National Park.

Andreas & Bjarne had a very long but awesome day at work.

The American Grouch had a nice April.

Darren upped his packrafting skills on the Thredbo River Srt.

Get a Rab Stretch Neo Jacketat Moosejaw! [Affiliate Link]

Dave found that the Osprey GrabBag looks dumb but works good. MYOGers definitely want to read the comments for inspiration.

Brian has the Gossamer Gear 2012 Gorilla, and compares it to the old model.

Bryan shows how his OookWorks Custom Trailstar inner looks under the Trailstar.

Tomás shows how to fix the Talus ColdAvenger.

An HMG Ice Pack was in Nepal and gets reviewed.

Kirsty was quizzed by her husband Michael for this Rab Ladies Scimitar Jacket review.

7 Steps to happiness – 2OookStar pitching instructions.

Hat tips this TWIR: Peter.

The Week In Review

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik M) — Tue, 01 May 2012 17:47:00 +0000

Hyvää vappua - Happy May Day!

Closeout Sale at Backcountry.com - Limited Time Only [Affiliate Link]

An Update for the Ultralight Summit 2012 concerning Logistics.

Redifining the defininition of Outdoorsy.

Andrew Skurka interviews his girlfriend.

Take a look at the Gossamer Gear Treadmill Desk.

James is celebrating his blog's six month birthday! You can win some free gear, so check out the party!

FatBike Tours in the UK!

Helsinki is the World Design Capital of 2012 (just in case that you need a good reason to convince a significant other to come here =). The Helsinki Font Walk is a fun walk for design & typographic nerds around the city.

Why is backpacking Willem's passion?

The Truth About Hammock Camping: Claim #1 – Hammocks Are Lighter Than Tents.

Adventure Boy.

Pursuing Sustainability at REI: Eliminating What Shoppers Don't See Delivers a Big Win.

A superb post from Mark which will make you hungry - Ultralight Makeover: Redux Pt. 6 - Pay Attention to the Menu - and make sure to read the comments, some good info there!

Chris Townsend gives us A Belated Report from Innov-Ex 2012.

Ross asks if “Bushcraft” has missed the Point?

Annapurna Circuit

Kebnekaise in winter. Recommended see.

Hike-a-Float Day

Cycle Touring Sri Lanka

Kayaking & hammocking in Sweden

Rum

Sweet Rain

Ela climbed Clisham, the highest mountain on the Hebrides.

James wonders if An Sidhean and Bac an Eich is a Corbett too far.

The Early Birder and the British Bird of Paradise.

Thomas meets Tor. In Halo & backpacking, also known as Red team, Blue team.

Bikepacking around Hermit Peak, NM.

David hikes were Giants pitch tarps for you. Arrochar or something like that.

Red Reef Loop.

Bikerafting Alaska's Lava Coast: Cold Bay to Meshik.

Devils Loop– Photo Trip Report.

Facing Away From Direction of Travel.

A night in April.

Snow Flapping through Sarek.

The Perfect Climbing Pack

Daniel tells us what’s in his repair kit?

Mark has used the Paramo Cioch trousers for six months, and share his thoughts.

Dave compares the Rossignol BC X11 vs. Fischer BCX 675.

Check out Bryan's Custom OookWorks Trailstar inner/ bug net including a video and photos!

Tookie shares his views on the Montura Skisky Insulated Jacket.

Get a GoPro® HD Camera and support HIF! [Affiliate Link]

Snow Wars: The Ultralighters Strike Back

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 12:33:00 +0000

The Snowspeeders landed at dusk on Hoth. Four UL conscripts, arriving from warm, sun-spoiled Tatooine to train in their fight against the heavyweight backpackers, embarked from the Snowspeeders, on their backs light packs, filled with the finest equipment to survive in the demading environment of Hoth. While the hanger crew took care of the Snowspeeders the conscripts walked over to the baracks, where beds and showers were waiting for them. As Commander Hesse walked in to inspect & interview them, he found them sorting through their kit, full of questions for the coming training in the ice & snow desert. How much insulation clothing would be needed, what is the weather forecast, where to deposit for not-needed gear during the exercise. Hesse answered their questions, and after the conscripts were done packing the group went to a local food parlour, where they discussed the plans for the coming exercise. Relaxed and full from good food, the group dispersed and retired to their beds, mentally prepared for what lay ahead.

The next day the sun rose in the East, bathing Hoth in a warm glow. Last supplies were gathered by the group, before they and Commander Hesse boarded a transport ship which brought them to the outpost of Ruovesi. The weather was changing, from sunny to snowing and cloudy, but by the time the group disembarked from the transport ship the sun was dominating the sky. The five saddled their backpacks, with skis and snowshoes attached, and set out towards the end of the village. Ruovesi being a small outpost, the group soon walked on the prepared skiing track leading into the wild, and Commander Hesse put on his skis while conscript Fliegengewicht got his UL Pulka out and ready.

While the Commander skied ahead of the group, the four conscripts made good speed on the well frozen path, and the first few kilometers were quickly behind our group. The plan included following the skiing track for a while, until crossing over to a road and walk till the beginning of the training area. The conscripts put on their snowshoes to cross a field; without they sunk in until their thighs, with snowshoes only ankle to knee-deep. Hesse sped over the field, before taking his skis off and leading the way along the road till the training area was reached.

A first small break was enjoyed, food and water was shared, before the group entered the forest and climbed up the ridge. While Hesse was leading on the open fields and forest, climbing the steep ridges with his skis was suboptimal and he fell behind the conscripts with their snowshoes, easily traversing the terrain. Once again down on the other side of the ridge however, Hesse was again leading the pack. With skeptical looks the conscripts observed how the Commander skied onto the lake, reassuring them that it was safe. Carefully, close to the shore, the conscripts set foot on the ice, thankful that it carried well and offering a vastly superior walking experience to the deep snow in the forests.

Strong winds opposed our little group, with wind speeds of over 15 m/s howling over the smooth, frozen lakes, transforming the mild temperatures of -2°C into body-numbing -22°C. Every possibility for a sheltered advance were taken, and breaks to snack and drink, to keep the energy up, kept the mood of the group high. So the two lakes were traversed without incidents and good speed was made, and the benefits of light gear became apparent.

At the end of the lakes, the group followed a small stream to the higher up lake, where camp should be made. The low sun was making the shadows on Hoth long, and the temperature fell a little, though it was felt by our group, which by now started to get tired. This tiredness became apparent when two of the conscripts broke through the ice on the river, and got wet feet. Thus our group increased the speed, despite tiredness, and soon came to the end of the small stream, where they found open water flanked by cliffs on both sides blocking their advance. The conscripts had again an advantage in climbing up the steep ridge, while Commander Hesse took off his skis and climbed, knee-deep in the snow, the ridge up. Up on top, the sun had set in the west by now, basking the lakes and forests in a warm, orange glow while from east a deep blue crept over the horizon. How to proceed: Camp on top of this hill, or advance further down to the lake and the cooking shelter not far from here? The possibilities were discussed, and the shelter and fireplace swayed the group to press onward.

After the descent the group followed the forest road to the cooking shelter, which was only a short walk away. Quickly fires were started, a Shangria-La 4 was used to close down one of the open sides, and sleeping places were claimed. After food and warm drinks were consumed, our little group stood under the starry sky, admiring Venus, Jupiter and the Milky Way, while faint Nordic Lights danced through the sky.

The next morning the sun returned in the east of Hoth, bathing it in its warm, bright light. Stoves were lit, and snow for the day ahead was melted, while quilts were hung up to air and packs made ready. The shadows of the forests became shorter as the sun rose over the lakes, and at the tenth hour of the day, after a small warm-up, our group left the cooking shelter and headed further north over the ice of the lake. They followed the tracks of a wolf, who traveled along the shore, while lynx and hare tracks crossed the lake. It didn't take our group long to reach another camping site, and a decision to ski and walk to a nearby road was made.

Passing by a farm, the group was surprised to see two Ostriches and a party of Wild Boars, animals not native to Hoth. They continued their walk down towards where a narrow path went off into the forest again, and weren't stopped by fallen trees in their way. The sun continued to shine down on them, and by the time they arrived at the hut of Helvetinkolu, they were able to enjoy the warmth in only their baselayers outside.

Inside discussions were held about how to proceed: Stay at this wonderful hut for the night and explore the surroundings, or move on towards a fine camping spot a half days travel from here. Looking at the distance to be covered in total, the group broke camp in the early noon, to traverse by map and compass the terrain between the hut and the lake, at whose shore their camping spot lay.

Our group skied and snowshoed through forests, crossed swamps and climbed further steep ridges, and showed immense team spirit during the day. So was Commander Hesse skiing first over the swamp, encouraging the conscripts onwards, despite their sinking in to the knees in the snow; while the conscripts helped Hesse carry his skis when they climbed the ridges, in which Hesse sank in to his knees and further. Only because of this team work the group arrived after mere hours at the shore of the lake, which would take them to their camping spot.

They pressed onwards, still under the warm glow of the sun, the light reflecting from the ice and snow on the lake, and reached in the early afternoon the camping spot. Again they decided to sleep in the cooking shelter, though Hesse insisted on them pitching their shelters on the lake for practice. And so three lightweight shelters sprung up on the ice, and the group inspected the different shelters: A LAUFBURSCHE Laavu, a LOCUS GEAR Khufu Sil and an GoLite Shangria-La 4. As quickly as they were pitched they disappeared again in their stuff sacks, and the group started to melt snow and prepare for the night.

Laughter and conversation started to erupt from the cooking shelter, while tasty meals were prepared and consumed and small bottles of fine beverages were passed around. As night fell, the sounds of owls sounded through the forest, and the greatness and magnificence of our galaxy, suspend over our heads, so clearly to be seen while standing on the lake, was evident. Somewhere out there, heavyweight backpackers under the the command of Darth Heavy planned for the destruction of lightweight. Little do they know that we are prepared, and that the force is strong in us.

At dawn Commander Hesse awoke, skinning himself out of his quilt and bivy to enjoy the fresh, cold morning air down on the lake. The sun was illuminating the trees on the opposite shore, while male Black Grouse were on the ice, their songs being heard far and wide. Today the group would train to navigate the forest roads to reach their destination of the night, a Laavu south of their current position. One of the conscripts joined Hesse on the lake, and when they walked back up to the shelter the others were already busy making breakfast and packing.

The conscripts, in light of the terrain to be travelled across, opted to strap their snowshoes to their packs, while Commander Hesse preferred to ski on the ice and little snow of the forest roads. While this gave him a slight benefit in terms of speed, it was more a decision to not needing to carry the unwieldy skis and boots on his pack.

The group made good speed on the forest roads, as lunchtime approached quickly. Here some differences became apparent: while the conscripts preferred to rely for energy on snacks throughout the day, Hesse liked a warm lunch in the cold weather, including melting snow for a warm cup of tea. So lunch breaks were a relaxed moment of interruption, to stretch muscles and talk. Once everyone was fed and ready, the group continued their journey south.

After a while they left the well maintained forest roads and continued on the track of a snowmobil through the forest, passing by summer houses and hunting towers until they came upon the Pirkan-Taival trail, running from the Ruovesi Outpost to the Kuru Outpost. Along this trail lay their goal, the Kivikieringan Laavu, perched atop a small cliff, overlooking a tiny valley and the forest. The group split apart, with everyone walking and skiing at their own speed, and so Hesse and conscript Fliegengewicht were the first ones to arrive at the lean-to shelter. Conscript Fliegengewicht quickly gathered wood and started to split it for his fine wood stove, while slowly the rest of the group arrived.

Sleeping places in the laavu were claimed, wood for the group fire carried from the wood shed, trails to the other buildings were established in the snow, and the benches around the hut were dug out. While it was still early, the blue sky had given way to a grey overcast heaven, with mist hanging in the air. So the group huddled around the fire, napped in their quilts and ate, until it was time to lay down for the night.

On the morning of the fourth day of the exercise, Hesse would leave the group to return to the HQ, and to see if the group, now equipped with the skills and knowledge to navigate & survive in the environment of Hoth, would be ready for the war. Snow for the day ahead was melted, while sleeping gear disappeared in backpacks, and coffee & müslis were consumed. At nine in the morning, with heavy mist in the air, under a grey sky, Commander Hesse gave final instructions to the conscripts, and told them that he expects to seem them the next evening back at HQ. So the group parted ways - Hesse skied back to the Ruovesi Outpost, while the conscripts snowshoed onwards to the Outpost of Kuru.

Commander Hesse skied like the wind, and after just 180 minutes entered the Outpost, 15 km from where he left the laavu in the morning. The personnel there was clearly surprised to see him so early, and needed some time to organize a transport ship for him back to Tampere. So he whiled away the time in the outpost, checking via satcom with the conscripts what the situation was like, and consumed coffee and cake till the transport ship finally landed. While he boarded the ship, he thought back with a smile to the past days, and that the force will be with the Ultralighters in the coming war.

More Photos | Thoughts on Gear | My thanks go out to Basti, Dennis, Hofnarr & Fliegengewicht for coming to Finland, and the Ultraleicht-Trekking.de Forum Community for being awesome!

The Week In Review

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 07:44:00 +0000

The last Week In Review to be written in Tampere.

Treat yourself to a GoPro HERO2 camera and support Hiking in Finland! [Affiliate Link]

How about some Kloofing in Suicide Gorge, South Africa?

The Legacy of John Muir

I interviewed interviewed Stuart Raike of whoopieslings.com

Sabi prepares Spirit & Mind for her PCT hike.

Peter wants refillable gas canisters. I too.

Credibility and experience in blogging

Guthook takes a first look at the Gossamer Gear Kumo

Lost and Found: Random gear geekin'. A superb round-up for gear used, abused and needed for bikepack-rafting.

Dave walked a few miles in the Merrell Barefoot Sonic Gloves.

How To Improvise a Tent Lamp?

Another Bikepacking 101

Frame Bag Tutorial

Allison shares her secret recipe for a superb Utah trip.

Basti shares his impressions from our trip in Finland.

Darren is biking & paddling from Maldon to Douglas Park

Greg gets Dirty and Devilish.

Nick enjoys a hint of Winter on Ben Challuim

Unknown Snowdonia – The Tarrens

A disappointing winter?

Treading the eight-fold ridge

Troms Day 3: Break and Make

Interview: Stuart Raike of whoopieslings.com

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik M) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 12:10:00 +0000

It has been a while since the last interview, though I am happy to get back into introducing you to the people who make the fine gear which we use on our outdoor adventures. The start makes Stuart Raike from whoopieslings.com, the fine suspension systems which make hammocking so much easier!

Stuart, since when are you backpacking/ hammocking, and how did you start?
It all started when I was about 12 years old. My father used to take me backpacking. We did some long hikes on the Appalachian Trail and in the Tetons of Wyoming. Plus was a member of a very active Boy Scout troop and at least one a month we were hiking, camping or paddling.

How often are you out hammocking nowadays?
I get out at least every 2 week for a hang. Most of the time it is just a single overnight trip. Living in a rural area, it’s easy to spend a night in the hammock even if it’s on my own property.

Are you more of a "weekend hiker" or do you have some long distance trails under your belt?
Weekend hiker pretty well describes me as that is usually all that time will permit. Local hikes allow for a one or two night stay. When the schedule allows, that may stretch out to 3 nights.

Which category would you put yourself in: SUL, UL, Lightweight or Bushcraft? What is your typical baseweight?
I’m going to use a phrase that my hiking buddy, Burning Cedar from hammockforums.net, coined. For the most part, I hike at what we call “comfort weight”. It’s not ultralight but probably more towards lightweight. Having a few extra comfort items sure makes for a great night out. Occasionally I hike at Bushcraft weight when out practicing my mid-term survival skills. Being an exercise fanatic, I don’t get all hung up on weight. I view hiking as part of my exercise routine and having a bit more weight just intensifies that.

Please tell us where the name "whoopieslings.com" came from, and what it stands for.
Whoopie slings were actually developed in the arborist industry. We have taken their idea and adapted it to hammock suspensions. With the Internet what it is, whoopieslings.com was a natural fit.

Whoopieslings.com makes complete hammock and tarp suspension systems. Can you tell us how the idea to start the company emerged and how you see its future?
The company emerged as the demand for new and improved hammock suspension systems arose. Many stock suspensions were simply too heavy, stretched too much, or too involved to set up and adjust. The use of hammocks in the outdoor world is increasing every day. As long as this continues, there should be a good demand for our products.

What makes whoopieslings.com different from other cottages?
Tough question as there are a lot of great cottage industries out there. Our prompt fulfillment of orders, high level of customer satisfaction and ability to do custom work is what I feel sets us apart.

The Whoopie Slings are making a name for themselves in the hammock scene. Are you well know outside of hammocking circles?
Our products have been adapted for use in tent use and wherever cordage is used. Having the ability to do custom work allows us to take a customer’s idea and transform it into useful products.

You recently became a Dealer for CAMP, Nite Ize and SMC products - awesome! What drove this development?
Items from these companies are used in and with our products. Having the ability to buy direct, rather than through a distributor/dealer, allows us to keep prices down and ensure we have sufficient quantities on hand.

Any new UL materials that have you all excited?
The increased use of Cuben Fiber has been great to see. As materials decrease in weight, we try to do the same with our products. A good example of that is the Dutch Edition of our Single Line Tarp Ridge Line which comes in at a scant 19 grams.

How works the R&D at whoopieslings.com, do you have a need yourself that you try to fix, or do some of your clients inspire you for new products and ask you for solutions to their problems?
Friends, customers, and myself all have input in our products. If someone has a better way, we do our best to incorporate it. If there is a product that is desired to fulfill a particular need, we do our best to make it.

Where do your customers come from?
Our customers come from all over the world. There is not a continent on earth that we haven’t shipped to. New customers come through either work of mouth from prior customers or find us through some of the great forums on the Internet such as hammockforums.net, backpackinglight.com and hopefully hikinginfinland.com.

Are you in touch with other cottage manufacturers in the USA, Europe, Japan, and other places?
Many of use compare notes to speak. It’s fun sharing ideas and talking about our interests.

What is your own favorite backpack, sleep system and shelter?
My very favorite backpack is an old Gerry model that has 4 zippered compartments. It has sentimental value from many hikes of past. Currently I carry a Ultralight Adventure Equipment (ULA) Circuit model. I find it has a good balance between weight and volume and fits my needs well. Hammock use varies as I like to use many different brands so I can experience what our customers do. Warbonnet, Clark, and Eagles Nest Outfitters models get used most often. My favorite tarp is a Winter Dream built by Scott Littlefield. Unfortunately, it is no longer manufactured. My 3-season tarps are all by Outdoor Equipment Supplier (OES).

Any other favourite piece of gear which you always carry with you?
I never leave home without my ThermaRest compressible pillow. It’s probably heavier and bulkier than some but it is so comfortable.

When and where was your last hammocking trip?
My last trip was a hike along the bluffs of the nearby Missouri River. It’s a great quick get-a-way with some scenic views and an awesome sunrise.

Are you planning to get out for a trip soon, and enjoy the spring season?
We’ll be hanging with a lot of great hammockforums.net members at the annual Arkansas hang in the Ozarks. I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone again.

Do you think hammocking will become more popular and break into the mass market, or will it continue to be something for a small group of people?
I truly believe the use of hammocks in the outdoors will continue to increase. A natural progression of that will be mass marketing to an ever increasing audience. The cottage industries will still be the point of choice for those who’s love of the outdoors is more than just a hobby but more of a passion.

Let me close by thanking those at hikinginfinland.com for allowing us to do this interview and sharing our story at their site. Resources such as this allow for us to share information, experiences and really helps bring all of us closer together. Thank you!

Got curious about hammocking? Check out hammockforums.net, read The Ultimate Hang and get yourself a hammock with a pair of whoopieslings.com!

The Week In Review

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 06:27:00 +0000

Breath. Be Positive. Enjoy spring.

15% Off Your Entire Cart of Full-Priced Goods at Backcountry.com - Use Coupon Code: 7PA-1-3WDMP [Affiliate Link]

Funeral For A Friend.

LAUFBURSCHE Open Door happening.

Inside the GRHQ.

Gear Doesn’t Last Forever.

The Story of Exped.

Climate Change? Shhh, Don't Tell Anyone. You'll Regret It.

Free online topographic maps for hiking

Christian raffles of a copy of Hammock Camping by Derek Hansen.

Dave interviews Seth Haber – CEO of Trek Light Gear.

Jaakko & Team are back from the glacier.

Thomas & Helen visited the Villmarksmessen.

Roman's 2012 Winter Wilderness Classic is a fine story you want to read.

Ski touring in Norway & Sweden

A Perfect Little Tour

A Japanese Winter Trip to Yashajintoge

The Barden Triangle

Entre del Mer y Orilla - Recommended Read.

Tunk Mountain

Autumn in the Dandenongs

Eastern in Southern Finland

Oneonta Trail

King of Pain

Rocking Red Rock

Welch-Dickey Loop Trail

Cross-country skiing in Ranafjellet/ Saltfjellet

Mt. Anne, Tasmania

A Stranger Encounter

Ingleborough & Whernside

Chris & Robin went for a little biking and a little whitewater (and a little swim).

Mike was flowing through Schaeffer

Marcus finishes his HardangerJokulen trip

Matt does his inaugural Surly Troll shakedown ride on the Pennine Bridleway

Roger concludes his walk along the Blekingeleden from Ronneby to Kistianopel

Mark hikes on the Great Whernside in last bit of the winter snow

Sonja is in awe of the Gila once again

Riding Up From Santa Cruz

Lightweight Tripod Hack - how to make an lightweight tripod even lighter while gaining functionality.

GORUCK GR2 Review

A Story of Headwear

Trailstar v. Shangrila 2

Zed spent ten more nights under a Trailstar

Comfort Review of Hammocks

Wagon Wheel Riding: dirt road travel with an Extrawheel

fahrstil

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 18:45:00 +0000

It is not often that you find a magazine that is good. And with good, I mean, like, really fricking awesome. fahrstil is such a magazine.

I found out about fahrstil because Cass has a feature in this issue, and posted on his blog about it. As I put in an order for a set of Porcelain Rocket frame bags, I was curious to read it, and was utterly surprised by the high quality of the whole magazine.

160 pages thick, of which an estimated five were ads, it is full of epic content. Content which is interesting, well-researched, thought-provoking, humours. In short: Epic. Each issue is dedicated to one theme - issue seven here in front of me is dedicated to mode, or fashion in English. Erik Spiekermann talks about bicycle logos of the past & present, there's an article on the trend of Fatbikes (and it seems the fahrstil staff read Toni's & Peter's blogs, as they're mentioned in that article!), the end of Fixie Inc. and much, much more. And if you follow The Week in Review and take a look at the contributors of the issue, you will find a few familiar names.

You pay 15€ for epic content with little ads, printed on high-quality paper. I liked issue seven so much that I back-ordered the previous six issues, and will take out a subscription. Buy your copy online, or check out the brick & mortar shops which have it on the shelf. You won't be disappointed - except if you are not able to read German.

The Week In Review

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 13:42:00 +0000

Spring? Not here.

Shop at the Official GoPro® Store and support Hiking in Finland!

The big news this week was the birth and opening of Germany's first UL cottage, LAUFBURSCHE.

Greg gave his Blog a new look. Stunning would be the right word.

Josh on The Appropriate Tool for the Job.

Bikepacking: the joys of travelling lean and light.

Andrew helps you to improve your photography with his On Exposure series. Part I: The Photographic (or Exposure) Triangle.

You're an angler? Take part in the 2012 Fantasy Pike Fly Challenge!

And Brian's blog got a Header Makeover!

Faustino Barrientos Patagonian Retreat. Go watch them. They're superb.

England To Poland by Bike.

Joe is Keel Hauling - a recommended read.

Darren goes on a Megalong Valley Stroll.

The Dirty Devil.

The Condors take flight.

Dondo visits Temple Canyon.

Joery gives us a blast from the past with his Pulk winter trip on the Vercors plateau.

Julian, Hana and the baker's son head out to climb Yakushi-dake in the snow.

Dawn visits Druid's Temple and Iton Moor.

White Mountains 100.

A late winter bivy overnighter by Toni.

Dave & friends walk from Hut to Hut on Day 2 of their Troms tour.

Roger hikes the Blekingeleden: Ronneby to Kistianopel.

The Schlink Pass 4 Hut Challenge.

Steven & family hike up Nogal Peak.

James & Martin are backpacking the untrodden delights of Meugher.

Dave uses his windows of opportunity.

Rubber fetish: Schwalbe offerings

MYOG Alpine UL backpack

On the fitting and the detailing on climbing packs

Sandy takes a look at the Salomon Speedcross 3

And I wrote about how to keep your gadgets dry.

How To Keep Your Gadgets Dry

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 19:51:00 +0000

Electronical gadgets - from your smartphone over a GPS to a camera - are increasingly often accompanying us on our outdoor adventures. Even if we don't have them switched on, we have them with us - either to be able to text a loved one to let them know we're fine or call for help in an emergency, to check our position in a Blizzard or to document our adventures. But how do you keep them dry and protected from snow, rain, sweat, mud and dust?

In the beginning I used Ziploc bags to keep my iPhone dry in all seasons. They work reasonably well, even allow for operation of the touch screen, and are affordable. However, they are not very durable, and depending on the modell you use their closure mechanism isn't always very reliable. The last thing you want to see is that your Ziploc bag opened and your phone is sitting in a pool of water, sweat or moisture. However, at 4 gram (for the one in the photo) you can't get much lighter and it might be all you need.

So I looked for other alternatives. I found them at SealLine who make with their iSeries cases everything the Apple aficionado could want - from a case for my iPhone to a case for my iPad, Sealline has me covered. None-Apple user don't despair - SealLine has an eSeries which suit Nokia, Android and other phones as well as Kindles and other gadgets like GPS and Point-and-Shoot cameras.

My iSeries case for the iPhone is sturdy, stays closed in all situations and weighs 30 gram. While it is a tad fiddly to get the phone in and out of the case, it fits like a glove once inside and the closure is very trustworthy and dependable - no inadvertently opening there. You still can call and operate the screen, take photos and don't need to worry to do so in the rain, snow or while packrafting. Also if you're on the trail in a desert a case might be a smart consideration to protect your phone from dust and sand, which can get between the screens in your phone and be very annoying.

Occasionally I have my iPad with me on the trail - mostly to make long train trips more bearable; and in case I'm writing an article or am on a research trip for my books it can be handy to make quick digital notes to save me an extra step at home. To protect it from wetness and dust I got a SealLine iPad case in nifty orange. It has the same properties than the case for the iPhone, except that it is a tad bigger! So typing and drawing are no problem, even in a downpour. The case weighs 94 gram and is a good insurance against wetness for this gadget.

So that's the phone and iPad save, that leaves the camera. Aquapac is a UK manufacturer of waterproof camera cases, and that's where I found what I was looking for - the SLR Camera case. Especially for nautical excursions (but not exclusively - in a downpour or blizzard you don't want to take your camera out without protection!) a Aquapac case is very useful - it not only protects your camera but also lets you operate it safely, opening new possibilities for creative photography. Weighing in at 217 gram (excluding the necklace) the case fits both my Canon EOS 50D and the Panasonic Lumix GH2 and is the case to take when the packraft comes along or the weather forecast promises an epic downpour.

Another option is the Ortlieb Aqua-Zoom camera case which I also own. This one is more durable as the Aquapac one, but you can't photograph with it. It is very waterproof, though, and offers a bit of extra protection through inner padding. At 333 gram not the lightest, though if durability, waterproofness and protection are what you're looking for, this is the one to go for. Extra points to Ortlieb for making the case able to be worn in front of your chest.

Aquapac also makes a fine smartphone case, the Mini Whanganui. At 33 gram it is a tad heavier than the SealLine, though it includes a necklace which is useful if you go paddling - that way you have the phone close by, can attach it somewhere and hence are less likely to lose it if you capsize. It has the same problem as the SealLine case of getting the phone in and out, though again - once inside it fits perfectly and allows you to use your touchscreen phone, as well as the camera, without problems.

That's it! With these cases you can take your gadgets without worries of getting them wet with you on the trail; and you can text in a downpour your family that they should the kettle on while you take a photo to show them how much it rained!

Here are a lot more photos of all cases.

If you enjoyed this article and are looking for protection for your gadget, consider buying a SealLine or Aquapac case via one of the following affiliate links; it does not cost you anything extra & you're supporting Hiking in Finland at bit.

SealLine iSeries iPhone Caseat REI
SealLine iSeries iPod/ iPhone Case with Jackat REI
SealLine iSeries-iPod/iPhoneat Outnorth.se
SealLine iSeries Caseat Moosejaw
SealLine iPhone case at Amazon.com
SealLine iPad case at Amazon.com
Aquapac smartphone case at Amazon.com
Aquapac DSLR case at Amazon.com
Aquapac DSLR case at Backcountry.com
Ortlieb Aqua-Zoom case at Bergzeit.de

Disclaiming the Disclaimer.

LAUFBURSCHE Opens Its Webshop!

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 12:06:00 +0000

LAUFBURSCHE, as many of you know, has been for a long time working behind the scenes on offering their gear commercially through a webshop. To open a cottage gear business in Germany is not as easy as it is in other parts of the world, and Mateusz has been working on it since we first meet in the winter of 2010, when we sat around a fire talking about a his creations and how a webshop would allow people across the globe to purchase his meticulously crafted backpacks, tarps and other innovative gear.

It is thus with much pleasure that I tell you that the LAUFBURSCHE webshop opens today, where you can purchase some of the best ultralight backpacks, Handcrafted in Cologne, Germany: The huckePACK, the huckePÄCKchen and the gorgeous Special Edition for the opening of the shop, a white XPac huckePÄCKchen! The shelves are filled with dozens of packs, so there is no waiting time - order today and have your backpack at home after Eastern! Custom packs are no problem either, here you'll be able to get a 'PACK made by Mateusz which is exactly like you want it - maybe a orange pack with a green lid? Or one made from Cuben? No problem at all. Also check out the fine accessoires including the beloved hipbelt pockets, ultralight & fluorescent Dyneema cords, Ti-Pegs and cuben packsacks. You know you need some!

LAUFBURSCHE has a full pipeline of exciting gear coming out throughout the spring and summer, thus add laufbursche-gear.de to your bookmarks, subscribe to their Newsletter to not miss on out exclusive gear, deals and announcements and take a look at their blog to stay in touch with Germany's first UL cottage!

From me a big congratulations to Mateusz and the LAUFBURSCHE Team for opening the shop!

The Week In Review

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 08:33:00 +0000

Winter's back! 30 cm of fresh powder, -7°C and sunshine. Time to get the skis back out of the cellar.

Mark your calendars for the UL Summit 2012!

The BCBoiler on Forbes.

I hear Pyhä Ice Festival was a blast - looking forward to go there in 2013!

Barefoot Jake needs your support - his GoPro HERO2 got stolen. Support him and get some fine photos in return for your contribution!

Toni reviews the Porcelain Rocket Anything Cage bags.

The ultimate Skiing Gear Guide by Forrest McCarthy - a required read by anyone who wants to pursue winter adventures.

Robin tells about his new gear he took in the Carneddau.

John sells all his UL gear. A great deal for a group of friends who want to lighten up their packs.

Shop at the Official GoPro® Store and support Hiking in Finland! [Affiliate Link]

An exquisite winter meal guide.

Make your own Monopod from a trailpole.

Joe ponders about packrafting gear.

Chad looks at the ZPacks Zero Backpack.

Amy updates us on New Climbing Shoes For Spring.

Why a tarp? It offer versatility!

Wild Wales - The Arans - Recommended Read.

Chris goes back to the Bonds.

Cole & his mom hike the Roys Redwoods Loop.

Mark is just going outside.

Greg does more Beach hiking. Superb.

Nik goes on a overnight bikepack / packraft trip.

Sandy pitched his tarp on Beinn Bhreac and enjoyed the solitude of the mountains.

David is Skye High.

Geoff spends five days around the Etive Mountains.

A Solomid and Moment on a ridge in a storm? Why not.

Peter and his son go for a winter overnighter.

Sven and Marc show us what's going on in the European packrafting scene.

Peter has a new hat.

Cirque of the Towers, Wind River Range, Wyoming

North Wales

Atholl Forest and Western Cairngorms

Wild Boar Fell

Humour - April's Fool Day

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 21:01:00 +0000

Dear readers,

my announcement yesterday, in case its label, the date it was published and Brian's sudden move to Finland didn't tip you off: It all was an elaborate April's Fool Day joke, in cooperation with Brian Green of ~~Backpacking in Finland~~ Brian's Backpacking Blog. We both set out to fool you and bring a bit of humour back into the outdoor blog sphere, and hope you had a good laugh and a good start into April!

Time To Move

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 21:01:00 +0000

I know you're expecting "The Week In Review" here, though I have an important personal note to share with you.

I'm excited to tell you dear readers that I am moving onwards and leave Finland and Europe behind. I was offered an exciting position in the USA at a start-up in stealth mode, and will be relocating to North Carolina on the East Coast of the USA. Working with start-ups is close to my heart, and I think this one will offer a fantastic solution to a problem which concerns us all. I'm very happy about this opportunity, even if it means leaving the forests, lakes and hills of Finland behind.

Obviously this move will make the name of this blog odd - not being in Finland anymore and writing under the "Hiking in Finland" name doesn't work, hence I renamed the blog appropriately to "Hendrik's Hiking Blog" and will continue to focus on ultra-lightweight hiking, bikepacking, packrafting, climbing trips and gear, just in a new, exciting environment. The US obviously has a lot to offer in terms of wilderness, and I am looking forward to explore its mountains, forests, coasts and lakes.

After ten years living in Finland it is not easy to leave this gorgeous country behind, with all the friends and family I have here. I'm certain I'll return often here to visit friends and family, stock up on Minttu and enjoy a good Sauna with a swim in the lake. I hope you will continue to follow my adventures, even if they are no longer in Finland!

Gear that worked and gear that didn't IV

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000

There was a fine selection of gear with me on the recent overnighter & UTFWT 2.0 trip, and there was some gear that did well, and other gear that didn't. Here's a reanimation of those fine round-up posts of the past. You might want to check out the complete Gearlist here.

Worn:

Berghaus Mt. Asgard Smock: A Smock I have now had for close to a year, and have never really mentioned here - a wrong I need to right. A great Smock made of GT Pro Shell, it is very durable and an excellent hardshell for winter activities where you carry a bit more weight. Deep zipper, good hood & cuffs.

Smartwool Midweight Hoody: A fine midweight merino hoody. Thumbloops, deep zipper, good hood, dries reasonably fast.

GoLite Tumalo pants: I decided on some of my training trips to try the Tumalo instead of the Rab Drillium. I was positively surprised how much I liked it - it kept the wind out well, breathed superb and even when rolling around in the snow it kept me dry. However, I might graduate to Softshell or EtaProof pants in the next season, as skiing on windswept lakes with wind-speeds of 15 m/s is mighty cold.

Woolpower 200 long johns: For the low temperatures we had, the right choice. The 400er I have would have been appropriate if the thermometer would have gone under -10°C, but so I was happy to have gone for the less thick one. Woolpower garments still get two thumbs up from me, even if my long johns has developed a rather big hole in the crotch from the constant use it has seen over two years.

Finisterre Zephyr Boxer Shorts: Love them, as you know.

Extremities gloves + MLD Overmitts: After two years of use the Extremities gloves are starting to disintegrate, but even with a big hole in the one gloves' index finger I continue to use them. Warm when wet from falling in the snow or sweat, these Polartec gloves are my go-to gloves for winter activities. The overmitts work fine to add an extra layer for warmth and wind protection.

MLD gaiters: Ach, I wish I would know when to get them on! A pain to get on when you would need them, too much if you don't need them. I think future pants will get a elastic string sewn in, to act as a gaiter.

Bridgedale Coolmax liner socks + RBH Designs Vapr VBL Socks: I think I have found a very good sock combination for me for cold weather skiing activities. Mind that the Vapr sock does let moisture through, so isn't a VBL sock like those from other companies. After a days skiing both socks would be soaking from sweat, but I never had cold feet.

Julbo Dolgan Sunglasses: Mandatory. Still fog up sometimes, but better that than glistening sun and snow.

Skis, boots & poles: The Komperdell BC Trail poles are the weak link here, or their snow baskets, to be correct. A completely bad design, one broke after two day's skiing in -30°C last year, and the other one showed that even mild temps of -5°C are too much for it too handle. Give that the pole doesn't stay collapsed in the smallest (transport) setting, which is highly annoying if you're climbing up ridges, I'm off looking for better poles. Skis & boots continue to be superb, and I wonder why I ever bothered with snowshoes.

Sleep garments:

BPL Cocoon pants + Hoody: The pants are superb, the hoody as well, but for sleeping and if it is windy (so pretty much always except I sit in my shelter) the Loke has the better hood. Beautifully warm for their weight. And I managed to not get any burned holes in them, despite having had them out well over 30 nights. Win.

Klättermusen Loke: Probably the best down garment I own - I just wish it would be slightly lighter and have more down. An awesome hood which keeps the wind out, warmth in, the kangaroo pocket is perfect to store a meal while it is rehydrating, this is a great down pullover.

GooseFeet Gear Down Socks: A revelation for people who want warm feet in bed. Super comfy, they warm up immediately and keep my toes warm all night long.

Black Rock Hat: A nice hat for camp and sleeping, though I found that the Loke's hood does the job for me for both of those situations. Too warm for me when skiing, I think I will use it in colder temps and less strenuous activities than skiing.

Sleep system:

Exped Synmat UL7: Total failure. While the mat worked at home and testing on day trips perfectly fine, on its first real outing, the 24 Overnighter, it let me down. Deflated in minutes, it was useless. Back to the manufacturer.

Multimat Summit XL: Happily I always carry a CCF mat in winter, because you can't really trust inflatables. Warm, dependable, yellow and light, my go-to mat in winter. Only shortcoming: Packsize.

Therm-A-Rest Z-Lite: Two segements, one of four, one of six, make for a sweet comfy bedding at night and good sitting during the day. Same shortcoming than the Multimat.

Katabatic Gear Sawatch: I was wondering if it is too warm, but it was fine in the mild temps. I maintain that Katabatic Gear quilts are for me the best quilts money currently can buy, and look forward to get a summer quilt from them.

BPL Vapr Bivy: I usually use a LAUFBURSCHE Tyvek bivy in winter, as tyvek breathes so well. I decided to give the Vapr bivy a try in winter, as its minuscule packsize and weight were just too tempting. To my astonishment, the Pertex bivy from BPL works just as good in winter as in summer (at least in these mild temps), so it will see more action in the coming winter.

Shelter:

LOCUS GEAR Khufu Sil: I'm in love. While I have used tarps in winter in the previous years, I found the Khufu a better shelter for winter conditions. It is faster to pitch as it is less fiddly, more stable in exposed camps, sheds more snow and is more protected. It is also an awesome colour. The ventilation port could be too small when pitched low, but on my trips it was always fine.

Toughstakes: Good, but not as easy to use as the MSR Blizzard snowstake. They're also not as rigid as the Blizzards, and weigh more. I will continue to use them and see if I can find situations where they excel/ work better than the Blizzards.

MSR Blizzard: The best commercial snowstake I know.

Carrying:

HMG Porter: A new backpack! A wonderful design - no extras, as basic as possible. Carries well, though I think for long winter trips the slightly bigger Expedition would be better, although I do get kit and food for a week in it comfortably. It is waterproof in snow, so no extra bag for quilts would be required, I'd say.

ZPacks Multi pack: As the Porter has no external pockets the Multipack is a great companion for it. I can carry my camera, an extra lens, a bottle of water, snacks, phone, wallet and keys in it, and have some room to spare. It also acts a bit as a counterweight to the backpack, and allows me to have the things I need during the day ready at hand. Waterproof and the zipper can be opened with one hand.

Kitchen

Overnighter Stove - MSR Reactor: After heating up the gas under my jacket it worked very nicely. Can't say how much it consumed, but the MSR is a compact, good stove which works well in low temps, thanks to its innovative technology.

Expedition Stove - Primus OmniLite Ti: With the EtaProof 2,1 l pot a great setup to melt snow, and a lot of it. One 220 g canister was sufficient for inverted use for four days, melting about 19 litres of water over four days. Maybe overkill for the mild temps, but a good test to see realistically how much gas it uses.

Kupilka 21: Took a tiny bit of damage as I was cleaning it (note: don't hit them on wood to clean them out in cold temps), still my preferred kuksa.

Fenix HP10: Heavy, lots of light, and didn't function 100% in the cold. This late in the winter a Petzl eLite probably would have been sufficient. For deep winter, if it works perfectly, a great headlamp which allows you to make the night a lot lighter.

Mind, this is a system which works for me in Finland, taking my metabolism et al. into account. Your needs in winter might be different, so be careful and don't take risks.

Want to learn how to go safely & lightweight in winter and do a trip next season here? Contact me.

Got a question or comment about some of the stuff? Recommendations what I should try? Leave a comment!

The Week In Review

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000

“Think lightly of yourself and deeply of the world”
― Miyamoto Musashi

Spiderwebs in the morning

Why backcountry GPS units are overrated

Hiking the Appalachian Trail is Selfish

How To Reproof GORE-TEX & eVent Garments

BLC to the Bering Sea

BcFin Winter meeting #1

Backcountry.com 2012 Winter Gear Sale - Up to 60% Off Now [Affiliate Link]

The Smallest Tent on the Market

Neck Knives mockups

Bikepacking gear list

Makings of a Poncho Tarp

Montura Magic G Active Shell

Te Wa Custom Underquilt

Kigo Flit - Women's Minimalist Shoe

Finisterre Zephyr Boxer Shorts

OookWorks Duomid hybrid inner

TYOG - Tune Your Own Gear: Laufbursche MONOloge

ZPacks Hexadome Tent

Fell running Kit-list

Get a 10% discount at MLD if you go on a Andrew Skurka Trek.

Alaska

Bergen

Belgium

Black Mountains

Cooper Spur Road

Finland

Troms

A Walk Along the Tracks

Three men and a dog in a North Pennine bothy

The First Hills of Spring

The Manifold Way

Mountaineering Training

Sunshine, climbing and the Northern Cuillin

Above The Clouds: Liberty and Flume

Finisterre Zephyr Boxer Shorts

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik M) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 11:01:00 +0000

Finisterre is a small company hailing from Cornwall in the UK, who are especially well known in surfing circles. While I sadly don't surf (another unfulfilled dream of my youth) Finisterre appeared two years ago on my radar, and I have written about their Bise MkII Vest previously. I've also been a long time user of their Zephyr Boxer Shorts and can't imagine a better boxer shorts for my outdoor and everyday needs.

The fabric is 100% Merino and it is Made in Portugal. The weight for my size S shorts vary from 76 over 82 to 84 gram. They have a nice wide elastic band which keeps them comfortably up and not let them slip down. Sometimes the elastic band turns (lays double) but that probably comes more from my inability to dress correctly.

The Superman coloured one (thus blue fabric, red band - it's the one in the middle) is nearly two years old and has held up very well - there was a small hole in the crotch, fixed already, but nothing serious. They pile a tiny bit as you can see from the photos, but all in all a lot less than my boxers from other natural materials.

Chafing is something I have never experienced in any boxers or pants, so I can't report on that front. They're tight but I don't find them too tight or restrictive. The flat seams on the inside aren't bothering me neither. When they get wet from perspiration, and as I do sweat a lot they do get wet, they're still comfortable. However, they dry quickly even if not standing around a fire with your pants down to warm your buttocks, given that you had a good warm meal and have dressed well.

On the smellyness scale they do beat any boxer shorts I have used before. Where bamboo or synthetic boxer shorts would start to reek after a day or two of backpacking/ skiing/ climbing, these merino boxers have been worn for up to nine days without ill effects (proper personal hygiene was maintained at all times).

Spring, summer, autumn, winter, they're always comfortable. In Finland, Russia, Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden.

Do I need to mention that they're coming in beautiful colour combinations?

You can buy one Zephyr Boxer Shorts for £24 or a set of two for £50 (Mathematics doesn't seem to be the strongest subject of someone at Finisterre) directly at Finisterre from their online shop. Their service is great and when I ordered mine they were within a week in Finland. And their return policy is ace as well. Though I doubt you want to return such good boxer shorts like these.

---

Edit: Just got a Finisterre Newsletter:

This year it's £10 off anything you like and will be available for 2 weeks. Use promotional code ATHANKYOU to get your discount (online orders only). That's one boxershort for £14!

[Theoretical] Backpacking On The Internet

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 07:50:00 +0000

There is an increasing number of theoretical backpackers online - on Twitter, forums and blogs. They love to discuss gear, which in itself ain't a bad thing - I love me some gear talk as well. However, my annoyance comes from trying to convince me that a certain thing is not good; even if I have used said certain thing and am perfectly happy with it.

I guess it comes down to that on the internet, with blogs, Twitter and forums, we talk with people in very different locations with very different needs from out own. I chat with Japanese, Australians, US Americans, Germans, Belgians, Spanish, British and Dutch besides a whole lot of other people (many from Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland). Besides our common interest in ultralight backpacking our adventures are very different, and hence our needs for gear, be it waterproof-breathable garments, shelters, quilts, bivies or even food, are vastly different.

Compare that with the pre-internet communications we had. Twenty years ago we might have been a member of a backpacking club, or had friends & family with the same love for the outdoors, with whom we talked about gear and trips. Of course the sales person in our local outdoor shop, other hikers who we encountered on the trail and magazines would also have been part of our sources and discussion partners. These people, who live in the same location, hike the same trails and have to deal with the same circumstances as you, would often come to the same conclusions about gear in terms of what works, and what doesn't.

We should realize that when discussing online our location and [gear] needs are not the ultimate wisdom everywhere else. If people in Alaska, Scandinavia & Japan have great experiences with material X, but it doesn't happen to work in France, the UK and Florida, think and accept the possibility that material X maybe just isn't right for your local needs, but can work very well for someone else's local needs. I also urge you to not go around and claim "Material X is rubbish", though annex your claim to include your location: "Material X doesn't work very well in the UK". And if you want to appear especially smart you might want to say "Material X doesn't work very well in the UK, though I heard Scandinavian backpackers do really seem to like it". If you prefer version 1, maybe at least explain why something doesn't work for you. Blanket statements are never good.

We are so used to thinking locally that we seem to forget that not everything is happening right here where we are, even if with the internet we might feel that way. And in the end, if X doesn't work for you, use Y - there is usually more than one option available.

How To Reproof GORE-TEX & eVent Garments

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 01:00:00 +0000

Yesterday was the spring equinox, and with much of Europe and the rest of the Northern Hemisphere already enjoying unbelievably warm weather, it is slowly time to retire downjackets and softshells and get the windjackets and hardshells out. But shock-horror, you realize that they aren't as waterproof as they once were. Don't despair, here's the rescue.

Instead of heading to the next shop to buy a new jacket, save the money for a fine backpacking trip and buy some Nikwax for 1/30 of the price of a new jacket. If the garment is really dirty, wash it beforehand (Nikwax Tech Wash or just with water in the machine). Then throw the garments (pre-cleaned or as they were) in the washing machine, add the Nikwax TX Direct Wash In and let the machine do its thing (even if Nikwax recommends you should only use one bag of detergent per garment, you can put multiple garments in the machine). Then hang them up to dry. When ready, sit in front of the window & wait till it rains, get your freshly reproofed gear on and go play outside!

Benefits? Besides saving you a substantial amount of cash, you safe the environment by not throwing something away that is again perfectly fine after a wash. Don't worry, your waterproof-breathable remains breathable, and not only is Nikwax Fluorocarbon & solvent-free, nope, it is also biodegradable. To top things off, no tumble drying is required (handy for those who don't have a tumble drier!). It just renews the water repellency of your garments and revives breathability, and thus prolongs the life of your outdoor gear without that you need to spend a lot of money.

GORE-TEX garments should be washed with Nikwax or similar, while I usually wash my eVent garments without anything. I found the Nikwax Pack of 3 TX Direct Wash In a good product for reproofing hardshells and pants, though do see the charm of the Nikwax TX Direct Spray as it is easier to apply. Whatever you choose, this is a great way to make garments waterproof again for the coming backpacking season of spring, summer and autumn!

Disclaimer: Webtogs sent me a Nikwax Pack of 3 TX Direct Wash In.

The Week In Review

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 06:20:00 +0000

Often the company of a trip decides if it is going to be awesome or just "good". I'm happy to report that last weeks trip was quadruple awesome because of the most excellent company. Thank you!

Up to 40% Off The North Face + Free 2-Day Shipping at Backcountry.com - Limited Time Offer [Affiliate Link]

Build a Gear List with PackPlanner. And if you're a super talented Frontend Developer, help them out building it!

Stunning winter landscape photographs. An absolute Must-See!

Cool Couple in Cold Climate

Coal, Money, and Some Data Geeks. Because climate change is real and destroys the outdoors we enjoy.

Sh*t Ultralight Backpackers Say

Technically Vegan

Antti's take on our overnighter: Luminen yöretki Helvetinjärvellä

Leo Houlding in Venezeula - Cerro Autana Expedition.

Vordingborg to Vester Egesborg, further wanderings along Sjællandsleden

Ice Climbing In The Canadian Rockies

Cateran ‘Mini’ Trail

Cluanie Inn Munros

Y Garn & Cwm Idwal

The luck of the third adventure

What is learned by conquering mountains — Polvadera Peak edition

Mountain road combo ride

Bikes + Packrafts

1st Packrafting trip

White Water packrafting

ITI Gear List: Imagine Dragging All This Stuff 350 Miles!

Tripod Option for Lightweight Backpackers

TrailStar Wars

Altai Hok 145

Nalgene Everyday GITD

FOR SALE - *NEW* Big Boy Hybrid Cuben Bivy

Slice of Heaven 2.0

The Action Kilt

The Week In Review

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 22:07:00 +0000

As you might have seen during the last months, I have been training and going on trips with a Hyperlite Mountain Gear Porter, a very fine pack indeed. A minimalistic, streamlined design that is very water resistant and carries big loads comfortably, you now can buy it at trekking-lite-store.com. Or maybe you prefer the ULA AirX, which utilizes your KLYMIT Inertia pad as a frame - true multipurpose thinking, and a real innovation!

Australia.

Belgium (includes a packraft and forests).

Canada.

Finland (includes awesome ice climbing).

Mexico.

Scotland.

USA (includes snow, forests and hills).

Australia (includes sand and water).

England.

Finland (includes snow and forests).

Japan.

Mexico (includes Whale Sharks, sea kayaks and cacti).

Scottish Borders.

Scotland.

New Balance MT10s.

Ortovox Kodiak.

The UL Amundsen Diet.

Portable Solar Chargers For All Your Gadgets.

The Icebreaker Boy Short 150 for girls.

Stress.

Depression, Obesity and Hill Walking; the great outdoors is for Everyone.

Raising a Wild Child.

EOCA Voting is now open. Go do your good deed.

"Your Tenkara Story" Giveaway.

Spring in to Adventure Giveaway.

Appalachian Trials: Interview with Zach Davis.

Disclaimer: This week's "The Week In Review" is brought to you by the trekking-lite-store.com. Want to sponsor the next one? Get in touch.

24: Skiing

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 12:42:00 +0000

Overnighter tomorrow?

I'm in =) Where do you want to go? It is pretty warm in Pirkanmaa, and I reckon you'd like to go for a circle trail? Maybe something in Helvetinjärvi? Hopefully the snow carries well.

That's how this trip started, with an Email from Antti. Thursday night I take the train back to Tampere, and then the planning starts. A phone call and we sort out starting time and location.

Hopefully my skis will fit in your car?

Good question! I don't have a rack on the roof but the car will take 225cm long skis inside (max).

Friday morning I'm in a hurry to wrap up a project, pack my backpack, double-check that I have everything and have a quick lunch. As I walk out of the front door Antti is already waiting. My skis are short enough to fit in his car. Inside, I fiddle around with my GoPro HERO2and record a timelapse of the drive.

We arrive about an hour later at the National Park, park the car and get the gear out. Antti has the Altai Hoks 145 with him, and I'm curious to see how they will perform. I step into my Madshus Glittertind+, put the Porter on, snap the ZPacks Multipack on to the shoulder straps and we're off, hundred meters down the road, and then in the forest.

Hilarity ensues. The sun and plus degrees leave the snow in a soft, slush-puppy-kind of state, and both of us sink in. Boot-deep, shine-deep, hip-deep if you fall. As we arrive at the lake, I'm briefly happy - the snow carries, there's little water, and the ice is thick. But we still sink in, boot-deep. It is not too bad, but far from perfect. If I'd be alone I'd ski carefully straight out. So, I consult with Antti. We decide to stay closer to the shore, also because Antti is taller and heavier than me. We rotate, every time one of us stops to take photos the other one takes the lead.

We ski along the shore line, cut through a forest, and then get so bold to cross the lake in the middle to Hiekkaranta. This is the same sweet camping spot I was with Phil & Steven two years ago, in the early spring. We ski up to the hut, and I am surprised by the absence of any human tracks. This spot has a Parking lot a few hundred meters away, and I would have expected it to be more popular, given its fine view. There's even a good amount of fire wood in the shed.

It is 15.30 o'clock, and we ponder what to do. The next pretty campsite is about six to seven kilometer away, via lakes, swamps and forests, but forcing us on the trails towards the end as cliffs dot the landscape. We estimate it is at least two hours, more likely three. Here we would have a fine view for both sunset and sunrise, and good camping spots all around. Well, no reason to to push it, this is Antti's first snow camping trip after all, better make it a good experience so he's hungry for more!

We set out to pitch our shelters. Well, compacting snow, letting it sit for a while, compacting again and then pitching. All goes smooth, and soon we have both our shelters pitched at the edge of the lake.

We enjoy the sun and pretty view, take an unreasonable amount of photos, and then head up to the woodshed to split enough logs for the night and breakfast next morning, with some to spare for the next people visiting. Transporting wood via Antti's Incredible Rulk certainly makes it easy. We are so occupied with chopping and transporting that we almost miss the sunset; the sun is already hidden behind the forest on the opposite shore when we head down to the lake to take even more photos.

It is pretty. Dusk sweeps over the forest behind us, while we look out west where the sun disappears. The deep blue night sky, with a light blue band at its bottom, makes the stage for the stars. And stars we shall see. Jupiter, Venus and Mercury all make a grand entry in the twilight. We gaze in the sky towards these distant stars, while the silence is only interrupted by the blowing wind.

We head up to the shed. Feather sticks are made, birch bark is lighted up with the help of knife and firesteel, and soon we have Channel One of Wilderness TV delivering Prime Time entertainment. Stoves come out to boil and melt snow. Hot meals warm us up, and the two beers I carried in are shared while talking about life, gear and backpacking. Occasionally we throw a log on the fire. I fuss around, trying to get a good photo of the moonlit forest. After I switch to Manual Focus, things work out. Then Antti is initiated into the circle of Minttu Cacao Enthusiasts™, a society of outdoors people who like the taste of chocolate and peppermint.

We head back down to the lake. The sky is dotted with stars. GorillaPod and Tripod are deployed, ISO, A and S settings changed until the results satisfy. Another photography fest ensues, and continues until we head to our shelters. As I lay down, my new Exped Synmat UL7 gets softer & softer. Lights on, re-inflate, looking for the culprit. Yes, definitely a leak. Splendid. Good that I brought my Multimat Summit CCF mat, which always performs fantastic - and I don't need to inflate it. I doze off, and as I awake it is again light outside. A look on the clock says it is after 7 o'clock already. Lets take a look outside then, I decide.

Pretty. The first rays of sunlight touch the crowns of the trees on the western shore, soft pastel colours are in the sky and the white canvas of the lake lie before us, waiting to be skied. Yes, the snow crust carries. Even without skis. At leisurely pace we eat breakfast, break camp, and I play with Antti's Hoks before we set out to ski on the lake. In the beginning we still stay close to the shoreline, following overblown skiing tracks - surely a few weeks old - though soon we cross the lake, skiing from island to island. The sun shines, and we both shed layers. Sunglasses are mandatory. Tracks from hare, elk and lynx dot the lake, and before long we're back at the forest.

We ski the same way back to the road as we came, though it is easier for me to go through the virgin snow, as it carries so well. Until I fall down. Backwards. Sitting on my ass, I laugh, and Antti documents it all. At least I was able to rise again without taking pack and skis off. The final few hundred meters to the car are positively hot, probably the thermometer already climbed to the plus side. Gear gets stored in the trunk, and we start to drive down the forest road. Around a corner, an Elk stands on the road, and starts running. Antti slows down, to not scare and exhaust it. After a while it final turns. We navigate down the forest roads, and a male Western Capercaillie flies up. We laugh - in the past 24 hours we only heard a few song birds and a pair of ravens but haven't seen any wildlife, now, in the car, twice within minutes.

The ride back to Tampere goes quick. The sun is up in the sky, it is warm, pretty. Conversations go about planned trips, gear, and to repeat such a trip again in the future.

Kiitos Antti for a great 24 trip! Keep an eye on Antti's blog Huoltokatko to read his take. More photos on Flickr.

The Week In Review

noreply@blogger.com (Hendrik Morkel) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 14:17:00 +0000

“Do not sleep under a roof. Carry no money or food. Go alone to places frightening to the common brand of men. Become a criminal of purpose. Be put in jail, and extricate yourself by your own wisdom.” ― Miyamoto Musashi

Very interesting MYOG Alcohol stove design.

Greg's first impressions of the LightHeart Gear SoLong 6 shelter.

Jim advices Caution for the Jetboil Sol Ti.

Jake walks barefoot in the winter with the Vibram Seeya Trail.

Josh is gearing up.

Odd's sweet Bikepacking setup.

Five ~~big knifes~~ Leukus from Finland.

Don's working on a top secret Backcountry Boiler Stopper Project.

Beautiful Outdoor Art.

I minimized the blog a bit, before the move.

Toby's winter so far.

Peter's take on the Arrochar Meet.

Vik rides on red rocks at the Submarine Rock Loop.

Ulligunde goes ski touring in the Allgäu.

Kelley and John have fun in the Holbrook Island State Park.

John walks the GR48 from Hinojales to Cala in Andalucia.

Dawn walks in the How Stean Gorge.

Nick goes for a Wild Camp in Glen Gairn.

Don goes bikepacking on the Palmetto Trail.

Gustav waits about the unbearable wait for snow and the joy of igloos.

Pacific Crest Trail 2011 in Photos.

Paul is not doing a Grasmoor Circuit.

Add one Tookie, Steve, Colin and Phil + Am Fear Liath Mòr = Fun.

David explores Hill Farms and Hill Forts.

The Master Chef recommends Curried Red Lentils and Rice for Trail Gourmets.

Adam writes an Open Letter to Wives.

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