Yes. Both the Pro and Hiker models have available replacement filters.

The small is 4 inches thick. The regular is 5.5 inches thick, thus the regular is 4 ounces heavier. Look at the dimensions to the upper right of the page for the complete specs.

This pack may be a bit small for multiple day stretches between re-supply points. At only 2800 cu/in it may be difficult to pack what you need. If you are a super minimalist or are sharing the load with a partner it could work. I have never done the AT, but go out in the Cascades for 5-7 days and pack my Mystery Ranch Grizzly, over 5000 cu/in but I'm usually alone and don't ofter re-supply. My advice, get it, take it out for a long weekend and analyze the facts after that. If you need a bigger pack, BC will gladly exchange this one for another.

Well, I have worn this shirt and the similar item from Patagonia in the heat and humidity of the Ozarks (can be stifling), they are light and breathe well. You can feel the effects of evaporative cooling when you finally make it to a hilltop or clearing and the breeze cools your whole body. So go for it. These are so light and pack so small a few tucked away may be great for the equatorial regions. Oh, and the Ozark mosquitoes have no problem working their proboscis right through the polyester.

It does appear that way. The size and materials are the same. The frisbee is the only additional item in the set.

Using the volume of a Lowepro Fastpack 350 - External Size: 12.4 x 9.6 x 19.3 (31.5 x 24.38 x 49.02cm)
equals approx. 2300 cubic inches, so go with a small

There may not be a certificate, however Laken ensures all it's water bottles are BPA-Free, check out their website to get a bit more info about it:
http://www.lakenusa.com/home/bisphenol-a/bpa-free-explained/

The weight is listed as 2.0 pounds on Discounted Cycling's site:
http://www.discountedcycling.com/products/Geigerrig-RIG-1600-Pressurized-Hydration-Pack.html
No weight listed on the Geigerrig site

40.0

Well, that is unfortunate, I cannot overstate how difficult it is to get that smell out of fabrics. My sister's cat p'd on a bag of mine two years back and after washing, rinsing and multiple other treatments it still reeked. Gave it to a friend while back, still feel bad for that pack. Try Nikwax products and check out http://www.cat-urine.net/

Sorry!

Large Model = 32 x 82 x 18in (81 x 208 x 46cm); Xtra Large = 40 x 86 x 22in (101 x 218 x 56cm)

28mm near case; 28mm near clasp/buckle. Check out:

http://www.kenmarwatches.com/watches/Rip-Curl-A2126gwhi-Bermuda-Ladies-Watch-39017.html

Doesn't appear to have a central zipper with access to the main compartment. For a more detailed view, check out:

http://uk.thenorthface.com/tnf-uk-en/backtrack-80.html

Look to the answer above. The Gravidyn element needs to be replaced every 6 months while the Ceradyn element needs to be replaced ~40,000 gallons. From Katadyn.com

Same dimensions, same 0.2-micron depth filter. However, the Gravidyn is 11 ounces lighter, utilizes carbon/ceramic filters and the element needs to be replaced every 6 months while the Ceradyn element needs to be replaced ~40,000 gallons. The Ceradyn replacement element is $10 more than the Gravidyn.

The Ceradyn: Free-standing gravity filter with 3 ceramic filters and a 10 liter water container for large quantities of water. Filters without effort. With 3 ceramic filters for maximum capacity

The Gravidyn: Free-standing gravity filter with 3 ceramic/carbon filters for additional chemical reduction and improvement of taste and a 10 liter water container for large quantities of water. Filters without effort. With 3 ceramic/carbon filters for additional chemical reduction and improvement of taste.

Check the Katadyn website for more:
http://www.katadyn.com/usen/katadyn-products/products/katadynshopconnect/katadyn-water-filters-endurance-series-products/

Seems the pack has a Carbon fiber X-frame™ suspension - thenorthface.com
For details, specs on this pack, follow the link:

http://www.thenorthface.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=10328&storeId=207&catalogId=10201&langId=-1&from=subCat&parent_category_rn=24452&variationId=612

For more on the X-frame™ suspension, follow the link:

http://www2.thenorthface.com/ap/technologies/technologies-EQ15.html

In the Product description, it states...Supports up to three hundred pounds. The width of the seat is probably around 18" the width of the chair when set up is 21" and this chair is very similar to the other chair (Lay-Z Lounger)for $83 though this chair is 2 lbs lighter and a bit larger when set up. Don't think ALPS offers an extra wide, call them if you are super interested

This model is not waterproof. Scroll down to the first review and notice the user says they like the "water resistant" material. So, the pack is water resistant but NOT waterproof. If you want to have a waterproof pack, you'll either need to spend a lot more dough and get a technical daypack - or spend a little bit more and get a properly sized pack cover to slip on when the weather becomes rainy. Use the sizing guide for each product to ensure you get a cover that fits. Follow the link to Backcountry's pack Accessories page...

http://www.backcountry.com/pack-accessories

Should be able to fit a Camelbak 3 liter hydration bladder in the sleeve. Scroll down to comment by T. Armento to see.

Hey Alex,

The Tech Wash product is made primarily for outerwear. However, it will not likely damage your tent and should help remove the smell. The water-resistance properties of the tent fabric are most likely deteriorating due to dirt, smoke and other things accumulating on the fabric and reducing the water-resistance. Give your tent a wash with the Tech Wash, try a few inches of water in a bathtub or wash basin, add the TW and hand wash and rinse. I WOULDN'T put your tent in a washing machine as the agitator will likely tangle or tear the guy-lines, fabric, etc. And maybe check out Nikwax's Tent&Gear Solar Proof as opposed to TX Direct for the proofing of your tent.

Also, a common cause of "tent stink" is campfire smoke residue settling on the tent. Choose a tent site well away from your fire and upwind if possible.

Hey there,

Maximum carry-on size varies across the air travel industry. For a list of maximum carry-on sizes by airline, check out the list at the link shown here:

http://www.luggageonline.com/about_airlines.cfm

However, this does appear to be just a bit too large. The small model is 3800 cubic inches and (for example) Southwest Airlines maximum carry-on size is 24x16x10 - equal to 3840 cubic inches- so maybe the small model could squeeze through airport regs and into the overhead. But I doubt it if it were fully loaded. the other sizes will likely also be too large for most airlines/airports.

Hope this helps!

James,

Even the Small version of this pack - at 32L - wouldn't likely fit under the seat in front of you. Obviously, the space will vary depending on what type of plane you are in, though my Osprey 22 - at 22L - will barely fit under plane seats when fully loaded and I have to usually shove it under there or keep it between my legs. If the pack was fully loaded I do not think it would be close to fitting, halfway loaded...maybe. But the overhead is a good option if you find out it doesn't fit.

Hey there,

Look above to Chris's review. He was able to fit two sets of gear (bags, pads, pillows, etc) into the 115L bag. This same stuff would certainly NOT fit within the 70L bag. This will certainly be better than trash bags and will last much longer. This bag is made from scrim-reinforced vinyl, while the Black Canyon bag is made from Double-coated nylon. Generally speaking, scrim = woven and woven = tough. Both are roll-top bags, though this bag has cinch straps (70L & 115L models) for additional compression. They should both work excellent for any water adventure. Read the reviews, Google the materials and design and make your choice.

Hey there in Norway,

Not sure what the connection on your propane tanks is like, though, if you are still interested check out Primus's website and get in touch with someone there who can provide an exact answer. Follow the link to Contact Primus:

http://nagear.com/contact.php

Howdy Ben,

The construction of the two bottles is similar. However, the insulating jacket material in the Ice Bottle is of a higher quality and thus more expensive. Found this on BicycleBuys.com:

Lightweight, high-tech Zeroloft® insulation keeps water cool 4 times longer than standard bike bottles and keeps the bottle light. (130g)

Mope this helps clear the issue on price/materials variance.

Hey Dutchman,
I haven't owned one of these and taken it apart but it appears as with other Katadyn products, the good people there have created a replacement cartridge for the MyBottle. Check out the Katadyn website:

http://www.katadyn.com/usen/katadyn-products/products/katadynshopconnect/katadyn-water-filters-accessoriespartskits/

The Virustat Kit is a complete filter replacement (costs ~$35) and the Cyst Filter Cartridge (costs ~$20) is to replace the inner 2 components of the 3-piece filter system.

Check out the link for a brief explanation of this:
http://www.nwbackpack.com/products/katadyn_exstream_xr_water_bottle_purifier.php

Hope this helps, will pass along more knowledge as it is gleaned.

No luck finding out on Backcountry.com. However, similar sets like the Brunton MY-Ti Flatware Set weighs 1.7 ounces. Since there are also no dimensions on this particular set it's no possible to make a comparison though I imagine the set is right around 2 ounces with the mini-biner. If you pick up a set, throw it on a scale and let us know.

The cup is comparable in size to a 12 oz. aluminum can, look at Sebastian's photo, so the MSR Pocket rocket should fit inside just fine, as for the cup fitting into the soloist cookset, I'm not sure look at the reviews and photos to get a better idea.

Hey there,
i would be hesitant to pour "boiling' water into this mug. The materials, plastic (of an unknown composition ie. #2,#3 etc) and silicon may degrade with frequent exposure to boiling water. Also, the cup will be very hot after you pour in boiling water and may be difficult to hold with only the handle as you try to pour carefully into it while sitting exposed on an expedition. be careful with the temps, let your water cool a bit before pouring or get a steel mug with an insulator, like a coozie or something

Hey JamarT,
The ballistics nylon is a general term for any nylon fabric made with a "ballistic" weave, usually a 2x2 or 2x3 "basket" weave. There are several weights, referred to as "denier" by the industry which may be used for the weave of this bag, the weight/denier gives the weave it's durability. Generally, 1050 w/d is the most bombproof and likely used in this application, though Timbuk2 doesn't specify (here or their website). Either way, Ballistics nylon is tough and tightly woven and should REPEL not seal out moisture and rain. The fabric could easily be treated with a water-proofing product like Nikwax to improve the water-repellent characteristics after the fabric became grimy and dirty from repeated use, streets are nasty, especially after the rain. You might try looking at the Timbuk2 Classic Bag; it has a waterproof lining (not sure if the Mullet does) and has several favorable reviews attesting to its durability and water-repellent characteristics. Either way, this bag will allow water in if you submerge it, so stay on the streets and trails and you internal items should be fine, avoid any rivers 5 feet deep running down Main Street - SCI.

Hey Carter,
I had wondered this myself and here is some of the information I found on the web.
Chaco is a Colorado based company which was recently acquired by Wolverine World Wide, Inc in January 2009. For a brief summary of the Chaco history try:
http://www.ehow.com/about_5092921_chaco-sandals.html
For more information, including an interview with Mark Paigen check out:
http://www.eganllc.com/blog/2007/5/17/mark-paigen-tells-the-chaco-story-circa-2004.html

You heard right. By repeatedly creasing the tent material along the same lines it can wear faster and cause the material to rip, tear or just perform poorly. You should stuff the tent, being careful to avoid snags or zippers, and DO NOT put the poles and stakes in the same stuff sack as it could rip the tent. Stuffing is always preferable, especially with sleeping bags too.

If you get your boots dirty, or have worn them for a few adventures without cleaning them they will lose some of their ability to repel moisture. You can tell when moisture sreads along the grain rather than beading up and rolling off the shell. Same as most any waterproofed gear item. Rinse 'em, clean 'em and proof 'em to keep them going strong season after season. Can use Nikwak's products or something similar.

A newer model, check the product description
"Even stronger than the original Omega system, the HydroTanium is easy to fill, easy to clean, super durable, and taste free"
Looks to be the same bladder material and come in a few more sizes.

Try the following links
http://www.ems.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3653017

and

http://www.zappos.com/keen-newport-h2-bison-wetsand

Look down the page. Sumner says they are 1 lb 5 oz. Amazon has the item weight as 2 lbs. Somewhere between those two numbers based on size would give you a close estimate to the weight of a pair.

I use this pad in the high Cascades here in the NW and find it very comfortable. Though, it is not like a BA Air Core as it only has an air chamber in gel insert (the hourglass looking shape) and the rest of the pad is closed-cell foam. The foam has a thickness of approx. 3/4 an inch and the insert when filled with air has a thickness of 1.5 inches.

This is a high altitude alpine/mountaineering pad and has insulation properties you will not find in lower end pads, like the BA, though may not be as comfortable. I have never been uncomfortable sleeping on it, though generally it is a it less comfortable in some ways than my old ThermaRest. However, I'd choose this for the construction, insulation, weight and size on any trip whether a single night or a few weeks on the PCT.

The Cascade Designs website says their Platypus line is made in Seattle, doesn't say where the materials originate, but you could likely find out with a phone call or email to them, check the link below

http://www.cascadedesigns.com/Platypus

Cannot tell if it has a USB port, though other reviews below say it has been used to charge iPhods, though if you are looking strictly for a panel with a USB connection check out the Brunton Solaris USB, link below

http://www.brunton.com/product.php?id=608

Check out the Manual for these panels at Brunton's website, link below

http://www.brunton.com/manuals/current/Solaris_6_&_12_manual.pdf

It has a chart for charge times with common end users for both the 6 w and 12 W

Here are two alternate sites that have Lorpen socks and each size the XL at US 13-15 shoe sizes

http://www.muckbootsonline.com/Merino_Extreme_Hunting_Socks_p/hela710.htm

http://www.reliableracing.com/detail.cfm?edp=11150695

This might not be a great solution, with 2 adults and a dog you'll likely want more usable space, notice the support poles, my advice get a Hilleberg Nallo 3 or Nallo 2 GT. The extra weight won't be too much between 2 packs and you'll love the the extra space, superior construction and materials, vestibule and ease of use that are hallmarks of Hilleberg. A bit more expensive but worth every. have used my Nallo 2 with two dogs on the PCT and would never get anything else but a Hilleberg if you plan on living in a tent for several weeks

They are quite similar. Poles and nyon are similar. The Electron is a bit smaller and has a few less sq ft in the vestibule and main body. However, the Electron is listed as a pound or so lighter than the Tengu.

This hat will repel rain, the Gore-Tex will, as long as it is kept clean and you use some DWR every so often, shed water it most conditions. Reference the reviews below for more on its style and performance.

I would suggest a large or XL. I am 6' 175 lbs and wear a medium which fits very well in the arms, neck, chest and shoulders. This and a shell would be enough to keep me warm while skiing though I don't know your resistance to cold.

Not real sure of the difference, though you could do some in-depth investigating to find out, the link below is the Micropur page on Katadyn's website

http://www.katadyn.com/usen/katadyn-products/products/katadynshopconnect/katadyn-micropur-micropur-mp1-purification-tablets/

The bag should be great for what you are going into, I spent a week last January in Fall Creek Falls, TN with a 30F down bag and was quite comfortable. Though, be sure you have a good sleeping pad, my recommendation is Pacific Outdoor Equipment's Peak Oyl Aero Mtn, is the best in my opinion.

Follow the link - http://www.pacoutdoor.com/splash_pdfs/sleeping_pads09.pdf

likely they would call this "water resistant" not fully "water proof". However, a small pack cover would make this water proof.

I would say that depends on the person, I know people who have lived in the NW for years and never contract giardia because they have developed a stronger tolerance after many years of drinking stream water. That being said, here is some info that may help, found this a while back and dug it out of my delicious bookmark collection.

Follow the link for more information, testimonials, etc.
http://www.miox.com/miox-solutions/The-MIOX-Advantage-safety.aspx

Here is some text i pulled from the site.
"In contrast to alternative disinfection methods, the safe on-site generation of hypochlorite uses only salt, water, and power as feedstocks. Neither the salt nor the hypochlorite produced is classified as hazardous by the regulatory agencies. The concentration of the generated chlorine solution is below the Hazardous Communications Standard (HCS) safety threshold limit of 1 percent. Although hydrogen gas is evolved from the electrolytic process of on-site generation, automatic venting designs or air dilution systems safely vent this gas to the atmosphere. On-site generation has an excellent safety record, with more than 4,000 units, from a variety of manufacturers, installed worldwide. "

These Smiths do not have nose pads and are suggested for medium to large face sizes, so my guess, though only a GUESS, is that they should fit fine. If you really want to be sure go to a local gear store and try on some Smiths without nose pads to see if the fit is comfortable.

smaller end with tapered tubing slides onto the tube, post removing the end piece from the tube, re-attach end piece after Platypus afterwards

appears minimum is 8 stakes, 2 in front and back, and 2 at each segment in the main body, may need 2 more for the rain fly, it is difficult to tell from the angle of the picture

depends on the size of your ice cubes, my roommate has one and simply turns the ice cubes on end and they fit (that is automatic ice cube maker ice). It would probably be difficult to fit tray ice cubes in the mouth. All else fails, go get some crushed ice from a friend with an expensive fridge.

In my opinion Ruffwear sizes tend to run a little big. My largest dog is 60 lbs with 22.5 inches from base of neck to tail and 28 inches in girth. I got the small expecting the pack to run big and it fits snugly, she could wear a medium but the small is fine. I would say a medium pack is probably most adequate for you lab though cannot be exactly sure. If not, backcountry has a dynamite return policy. Either way your dog will love this pack