For years, outdoor gear followed a simple rule: more durability, more features, more weight.
Then ultralight came along and flipped that thinking on its head.
Now, whether you’re planning your first overnight trip or refining your setup for longer adventures, the question is the same:
Should you go ultralight, or stick with traditional gear?
The answer isn’t about choosing sides. It’s about understanding what actually improves your time outdoors.
What is ultralight gear?
Ultralight backpacking is about reducing pack weight without sacrificing performance.
That means:
- Carrying only what you need
- Choosing lighter, more efficient designs
- Building a system where every item earns its place
Most ultralight setups aim for a base weight under 4.5-6kg, while traditional setups often sit significantly higher.
The case for traditional gear
Traditional gear still has a role, especially depending on how and where you use it.
Durability
Heavier materials can handle rough ground, unpredictable weather, and less careful use.
Ease of use
Freestanding tents and structured packs are often more intuitive, particularly for beginners.
Familiar comfort
There’s a sense of security in more substantial gear, even if that comes at a weight cost.
Best suited for:
- Short trips
- Campsites or car camping
- Harsh winter environments
- Those prioritising simplicity over weight
The case for ultralight gear
Ultralight gear isn’t about doing without, it’s about doing more with less.
Less weight, more freedom
Reducing pack weight is one of the biggest upgrades you can make. You’ll move more efficiently, fatigue less, and enjoy longer days on the trail.
Modern performance
Today’s ultralight gear uses advanced materials that balance weight, strength, and weather protection, far beyond what was possible a decade ago.
Simplified systems
Fewer features often mean fewer decisions, less bulk, and a more streamlined experience.
Best suited for:
- Multi-day backpacking
- Thru-hiking
- Long-distance routes
- Anyone looking to reduce pack weight without compromising performance
Where weight matters most
If you’re looking to transition towards ultralight, start with the “big three”:
- Shelter: e.g. lightweight tents like the Durston X-Dome 1 or Nortent Vern 1
- Sleep system: down sleeping bags and insulated mats
- Backpack: lighter packs designed around streamlined setups
These are where you’ll see the biggest weight savings, often removing several kilos from your pack.
The trade-offs (and common myths)
“Ultralight gear isn’t durable”
High-quality ultralight gear is designed for real use. It may require a bit more care, but it’s built to perform where it matters.
“Heavier gear is more comfortable”
Comfort isn’t just about individual items, it’s about what you carry all day. A lighter pack almost always wins.
“Ultralight is only for experts”
In reality, lighter setups can make backpacking more accessible, not less.
Finding the right balance
For most people, the best setup sits somewhere in between.
A balanced approach might look like:
- Investing in a lightweight shelter and sleep system
- Keeping a focus on comfort where it matters most
- Avoiding unnecessary extras that add weight without real benefit
This way, you get the performance benefits of ultralight gear without sacrificing reliability.
Why we lean ultralight
At Valley + Peak, we favour ultralight gear because it consistently improves real-world experience.
Less weight means:
- More energy at the end of the day
- Greater flexibility in route and distance
- A more enjoyable time outdoors overall
But we don’t believe in cutting weight for the sake of it.
Every product we stock is chosen because it balances weight, durability, and performance, not just numbers on a spec sheet.
Final thoughts
You don’t need to replace everything overnight.
Start by upgrading one or two heavier items, learn what works for you, and build your setup over time.
Because ultimately, the goal isn’t to go as light as possible.
It’s to carry a setup that lets you move further, feel better, and enjoy the experience more.
