Switched from Zpacks Arc to Evolved Supply Space Ranger
So I'm retired, and I get bored easily during the winter months. Next year, I'll be attempting a thru of the AT. It won't be my first time on the AT, but so missing it. Canadian winters are long. lol, still have snow on the ground.
I wanted to give my thoughts on my new pack by Evolve Supply Co. I had been quite content with Zpacks Arc Air....though the bottom of pack started to wet through from my last thru attempt. The hip belts were a little worn as well and doubt the pack would have endured another long hike.
I have to admit, it was Darwin on the Trail YouTube videos that got me from weekend backpacker to thru hiker. Decided to give his equipment company a go. Watched a few videos, read reviews, then pulled the trigger on the Space Ranger.
There are a couple things that I like right off the bat versus my Arc.
- I can easily reach to my sides to grab a spare water bottle. Found the Arc a little more challenging.
- I like the pocket underneath the pack. I keep my snacks and hiking gloves. Easy to access.
- After years of sleeping with my food (yes, I know), giving my Bearikade a go. Stupid thing has sat collecting dust because I've always decided last minute it's not worth the weight. I think of how many times I couldn't find a good tree...or it was pouring rain and just slept with the food bag. The Bearikade was super tight in the Arc pack, but fits easily in the Space Ranger. I ran my sit pad around the canister to give protection from rubbing again the pack. Lots of room on both sides of canister for my rain gear.
Going out today on a short hike and see how it feels with the canister. In hindsight, this isn't ultralight - with canister I'm 16lbs, but wanted to give a take on what I hope is a great pack.
Here's my current pack list: