PODCAST · sports
Backpacking Light Podcast
by Backpackinglight.com
The Backpacking Light Podcast explores the technology, gear, skills, and philosophy of backcountry wilderness travel through stories, interviews, and investigative reports.
Episodes
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Episode 149 | Durability
This is Part 1 (of 4) in a new series called Principles of Outdoor Gear Design and focuses on the topic of outdoor gear durability. Ryan Jordan examines durability through the relationship between product, use case, and user behavior. Backpack examples connect materials, manufacturing, and...
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Episode 148 | Rain Jackets for Mountain Minimalism
Learn why ultralight rain shells can be appropriate for mild trail conditions but inadequate in exposed mountain weather. Explore a decision framework based on exposure duration, retreat options, terrain, abrasion, wind, and thermal margin to understand the role of the mountain minimalist rain...
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Episode 147 | Thermoregulatory Debt
Thermoregulatory debt describes the delayed cost of layering decisions made during movement in cold, wet, and windy conditions. A small delay in venting, changing layers, eating, or managing moisture can later become wet clothing, increased heat loss, cold hands, slower movement, and poorer...
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Episode 146 | Dirtbag Rich with Blake Boles
Ryan Jordan interviews Blake Boles, author of Dirtbag Rich, about redefining wealth through time, purpose, flexibility, and outdoor freedom. They explore dirtbag culture, careers, housing, relationships, risk, and the pursuit of a life built around adventure, simplicity, and meaningful time…
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Episode 145 | Backpacking at Altitude
Learn how altitude changes oxygen availability, hiking performance, sleep, recovery, appetite, and risk for acute mountain sickness. In this episode, we reframe altitude as cumulative hypoxic dose shaped by sleeping elevation, ascent rate, workload, and time. The episode translates altitude...
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Episode 144 | Trail Steepness vs. Difficulty
Hiking effort doesn't scale smoothly with slope. It shifts across physiological regimes driven by muscle contraction type, aerobic limits, gait mechanics, and safety regulation. In this episode, we explain why mild downhill can be most efficient, why steep grades impose nonlinear time penalties,...
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Episode 143 | Managing Fatigue
This episode presents an operational framework for fatigue management in backcountry travel grounded in a non-circular load–fatigue–capacity model. Load is defined as external demand, fatigue as accumulated physiological and cognitive degradation, and remaining capacity as current ability. Risk…
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Episode 142 | The 72 Hour Backcountry Reset
This episode explores why time in the backcountry can improve how we function beyond recreation. Ryan Jordan describes how modern life overloads attention through constant interruptions and unfinished obligations, then walks through staged benefits of nature exposure from minutes to months. He...
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Episode 141 | Hiking at Night in a Blizzard
What gear do you actually need to hike out safely through a winter blizzard at night, in sub-freezing temps and high winds, when stopping isn't an option? In this episode, Ryan breaks down a focused foul-weather kit: core layers, shells, handwear, footwear, lighting, and navigation that preserve...
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Episode 140 | Winter Storm Decisions
Ryan walks through a structured, six-question framework for deciding whether to stay put or move when a winter storm deteriorates around you, using real backcountry examples to show how terrain, weather, gear, consequences, people, and trends shape safer choices. To view the show notes for this...
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Episode 139 | Repair Kits
In this Field Notes episode, Ryan breaks down ultralight repair kits using a simple framework: context, consequence, and capability. He compares short-term overnights to long-term expeditions, explains how to right-size your kit, and walks through real-world repair problems with shelters…
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Episode 138 | Plan – Focus – Trust
In this episode, Ryan introduces the Plan-Focus-Trust framework - a simple but powerful approach to managing hard, uncertain objectives in the wilderness and beyond. Drawing on lessons from our recent BPL community trip in the Colorado Rockies, he shows how successful expeditions aren't conquered...
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Episode 137 | The Risk Control Continuum
In this episode, we introduce the Risk Control Continuum - a practical, evidence-based framework for managing risk in the backcountry. He explores how environmental, psychosocial, and operational hazards trigger physiological, functional, and cognitive drift, leading to cascades of failure....
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Episode 136 | Fringe Season Layering
What is the difference in layering strategy from summertime to the fall-winter transition? In this episode, Ryan Jordan discusses how the environment of the fringe season (colder temperatures and stormier weather) demands different types of layers and a different approach to layering. To view the...
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Episode 135 | Field Notes - The Metabolic Cost of Bushwhacking
In the Field Notes episode, we explore why bushwhacking miles aren't just harder but metabolically different. The Metabolic Energy Mile (MEM) framework breaks this down into three types of work: brush work (muscle strain from pushing through vegetation), impedance work (lost efficiency from...
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Episode 134 | Sleep Quality in the Backcountry
Backcountry sleep is fragile, and when it breaks down, recovery, judgment, and safety are at risk. In this episode, we examine the forces that fragment rest, including altitude, stress, weather, injury, ground comfort, and sleep/shelter gear systems, and how they disrupt the deep and REM sleep...
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Episode 133 | Human Waste Management
In this episode, Ryan Jordan examines why traditional cathole practices often fail in alpine, desert, and high-use environments. Drawing on scientific research, policy gaps, and evolving Leave No Trace ethics, he explains why pack-out systems are trending towards a new standard for modern...
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Episode 132 | Satellite Messenger Weather Forecasts
Today's episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast is sponsored by Vaer Watches. A Vaer watch is an expedition-worthy, made in the USA, reliable, rugged, and beautiful timepiece that earns its place on your wrist and in your gear kit. To view this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, click here.
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Episode 131 | Ultralight First Aid Kit Strategies
In this episode, we discuss how to design scalable, evidence-informed first aid kits for backcountry travel. Grounded in the principles of context, consequence, and capability, he outlines three modular kit configurations - Overnight, Weekend, and Weeklong/Expedition - and explains their medical...
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Episode 130 | Bivy Sack Camping
In this episode, Ryan shares his approach to bivy sack camping above treeline using a waterproof-breathable system built for stealth, weather protection, and minimal impact. He explains why tents aren't always practical in alpine terrain, what gear he trusts (including his full summer bivy kit),...
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Episode 129 | Field Notes - The Limits of Wilderness Minimalism
In this Field Notes episode, Ryan Jordan explores what happens when wilderness minimalism reaches its limits. Through real-world examples and the lenses of physiology, psychology, and Stoic philosophy, we examine how stripped-down gear systems perform under stress — and how they fail. We'll look…
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Episode 128 | The Metabolic Cost of Carrying a Backpack
What does it really cost your body to carry a backpack in the backcountry? In this episode, we explore the science behind the metabolic demands of load carriage - how pack weight, load distribution, terrain, and walking speed impact energy expenditure. (included: interview with pack designer Dan...
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Episode 127 | Field Notes – Shelter Fabrics
In this Field Notes episode, Ryan Jordan explores the science of shelter fabrics - from strength-to-weight ratios and waterproofing to coating quality, pitch stability, and storm resilience. Featuring technical insights and field-tested analysis, this episode highlights the engineering tradeoffs...
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Episode 126 | Field Notes - Ultralight Chairs: Performance or Luxury?
In this Field Notes (shorts) episode, host Ryan Jordan challenges a widely held ultralight backpacking belief: that camp chairs are a luxury. Drawing on personal experience, recovery science, and biomechanical insights, Ryan explores how sitting well in the backcountry isn't just about comfort -...
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Episode 125 | How to Plan a Long Thru-Hike
Many hikers dream of completing a long thru-hike, but face physical, mental, and logistical challenges that often lead to burnout, injury, or quitting. It's easy to fall into the trap of overexertion, gear failures, poor nutrition, and mental fatigue. In this episode, Nikki Stavile shares...
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Episode 124 | Fastpacking Pack Design with Black Diamond
In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, host Ryan Jordan speaks with Black Diamond athlete Joe Grant and product designer Derick Noffsinger about the conception, design process, and field testing behind Black Diamond's fastpacking-oriented pack systems—including the Distance and Beta...
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Episode 123 | The 5 Fs of Fastpacking
Learn how to fastpack smarter and lighter - Ryan Jordan breaks down the "Five F's of Fastpacking"—Focus, Fitness, Fuel, Footwear, and Fast & Light Gear—and shares performance-based strategies for moving efficiently with minimal gear over long distances. Includes gear recommendations, training...
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Podcast 122 | Unconventional Sleep Systems
Today's episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast is sponsored by Outdoor Vitals StormLoft Down Topquilt, featuring ExpeDry gold-treated water-resistant down. This quilt dries faster than traditional DWR-treated down, keeping you warm even in damp conditions, and is available in multiple fill...
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Episode 121 | What is Thru-hiking & GGG Giveaway
In episode 121 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about how to plan a short thru-hike. To view the shownotes for this episode, click here.
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Episode 120 | Using Quilts in Cold Temperatures
In episode 120 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to continue our study of how to sleep warm in cold temperatures, focusing on the gear that makes up your sleeping system. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here:
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Episode 119.5 (Bonus) | Trail Days Online! 2025 Preview
In this episode, we'll introduce you to the Trail Days speakers and give you a sneak peek at their presentation topics and expertise. From ultralight pack design to scrambling techniques, backcountry hygiene to desert travel, there's something for everyone. To view the shownotes for this episode…
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Episode 119 | Sleep Warmer: Evening Routines
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about bedtime routines and practices for sleeping warm in the backcountry. To view the show notes for this episode, click here.
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Episode 118 | Traction Spikes
In episode 118 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about traction systems for snow travel. To view the show notes for this episode, click here.
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Podcast 117 | Snowshoe Sizing | GGG
In episode 115 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn how to size snowshoes, minimize sinkage, and save energy for your next winter adventure in deep snow. To view the shownotes for this episdoe, click here.
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Episode 116 | Slope Angles
In this episode you'll learn how to measure and interpret slope angles to help you navigate steep terrain and assess hazards in the backcountry. To view the shownotes for this episode, click here.
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Episode 115 | Tiny Things
In episode 115 of the Backpacking Light Podcast we're sharing Big Talk about Tiny Things: Those little ultralight bits of gear that have an outsized impact on our experience in the backcountry. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here.
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Episode 114 | Synthetic Fabric Structures
In episode 114 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about the different types of synthetic fibers and fabrics used in outdoor apparel. To view the shownotes for this episode, click here.
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Episode 113 | Pad Pumps
In episode 113 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we talk about current PAD PUMP trends in the ultralight cottage industry, the challenges faced by small businesses during the holiday season plus a few interesting stocking stuffers. To view the shownotes for this podcast, click here.
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Episode 112 | The Analog Backcountry Experience
In episode 112 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about the analog Backcountry experience and some of the gear that can help feed your need for a digital-free backcountry life. To view the shownotes for this epsiode, click here.
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Episode 111 | Business Lessons for Outdoor Industry Startups
In this episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, Ryan and Lloyd discuss lessons learned from starting a business in the outdoor industry. To view the shownotes, click here.
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Episode 110 | Natural vs Synthetic Fibers
In episode 110 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we talk about how natural and synthetic fibers influence thermoregulation. To view the shownotes for this episode, click here.
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Episode 109 | How Fishnet Works
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn how fishnet base layers work, we're gonna talk about a bigger battery and why or why it may not be better than two littler batteries, and we'll talk about how the most comprehensive backpacking skills education program that...
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Episode 108 | EI Coyote Quilts and Photo Satellite Messaging
On today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, Nikki Stavile interviews Brian Noakes of El Coyote quilts, and we talk about a new satellite messaging device that can now send photos and voice memos. To view the show notes for this podcast, click here.
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Episode 107 | Backpack Ventilation with Vaucluse
In episode 107 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we are going to learn about backpack ventilation and have a chat about pack design and its impact on thermoregulation with Vaucluse founder Brice Sokolowski. To view the show notes for this episode, click here.
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Episode 106 | Tent Stake Holding Power
In episode 106 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about tent stake holding power and have a chat about tent stake design with Suluk 46 founder Steve Evans. To view the shownotes for this episode, click here.
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Episode 105 | Expedition Kite Skiing Across Greenland with Jesse Crocker
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about traveling off-trail responsibly, a rain jacket that defines new standards for durability and performance, and a kite skiing expedition across greenland with Jesse Crocker. To view the shownotes for this episode of the...
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Episode 104 | Outdoor Industry Hiring + Bennett Fisher (Jolly Gear)
In Episode 104 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, Ryan and Lloyd interview Jolly Gear founder Bennett Fisher, chat about what is in their day packs, and share their perspectives on recruiting and hiring employees for their companies. To view the shownotes for this episode of the backpackinglight...
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Episode 103 | Cottage Industry Trends
Episode 103 of the Backpacking Light Podcast is a collaboration between Backpacking Light and Garage Grown Gear, home to more than 200 small, startup, and cottage gear brands, and your hub for all things ultralight. Visit them online at garagegrowngear.com. To read the shownotes for this episode…
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Episode 102 | Polartec Alpha Direct
In episode 102 of the Backpacking Light podcast you're going to learn about the origin, evolution, and use of Polartec Alpha Direct in modern ultralight layering systems. To read the shownotes for this podcast, click here.
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Episode 101 | Take Less, Do More, With Glen Van Peski
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk to Glen Van Peski about the life lessons we can learn from ultralight backpacking. To view the shownotes for this episode, click here.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
The Backpacking Light Podcast explores the technology, gear, skills, and philosophy of backcountry wilderness travel through stories, interviews, and investigative reports.
HOSTED BY
Backpackinglight.com
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Backpacking Light Podcast have?
Backpacking Light Podcast currently has 100 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Backpacking Light Podcast about?
The Backpacking Light Podcast explores the technology, gear, skills, and philosophy of backcountry wilderness travel through stories, interviews, and investigative reports.
How often does Backpacking Light Podcast release new episodes?
Backpacking Light Podcast has 100 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Backpacking Light Podcast?
You can listen to Backpacking Light Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Backpacking Light Podcast?
Backpacking Light Podcast is created and hosted by Backpackinglight.com.
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