Matthew K.

When I'm not 100% sure, I use my Steripen rather than my Katadyn hiker pro. Steripen also deactivates water-born viruses, and so far I haven't gotten sick after using it. It definitely doesn't improve the taste of water nor filters things(!) out, but with clear water, you can be relieved to know that you're bacteria/protozoa/virus free! It is super easy to operate, and it also works as a backup torch. You definitely go for Steripen, especially when you're planning international trips. Long story short; awesome! I like it!

It keeps me dry pretty much all the time when it's pouring down. My only complaint was with its somewhat wierdly-being-positioned hood. It fits well, but sometimes I get water on my face. The jacket's ultralight and waterproof. It can fit into its own sack (its left pocket), so you can just throw it into your backpack with ease. After a few trips, mine got a bit wrinkly, but it didn't affect jacket's performance. Ventilation is great, and the size runs regular/a bit loose. I usually wear medium (5'10'' 185 lbs) and with my Patagonia torrentshell(medium), I can wear my down sweater jacket underneath as an insulating layer. Pretty well-made and comfortable. Another great outerlayer jacket by Patagonia!

At first, it was hard to decide between Katadyn hiker pro and MSR miniworks EX. They both had awesome reviews and seemed to be both greatly working filters. However after researching extensively on water filters, I chose Katadyn hiker pro. After my recent hiking trips, I was more than pleased with it. It pumped 1L of clean/better-tasting water in less than 50sec. (they say 58sec or something, but not too sure) It is pretty light as well! (about 5~6 oz lighter than MSR miniworks EX, I think, due to its plastic pre-filter cap; rather than MSR's metal pre-filter coil.) Clean water comes out from a hose, so you can actually fill any kind of water containers. (MSR seems to be compatible with only the Nalgene and wide-mouthed bottles/bladders.) There are 3 quick-connect valves included, and you can directly connect them to any water bladder in the market. Again, I have no experiences with MSR, thus cannot make any objective judgement. However, Katadyn hiker pro was not only efficient but also versatile. I recommend it!

This down jacket from Patagonia is much better than I expected it to be. It is extremely warm for its weight; ultralight! I'm 5'10'' 185lbs, and medium fits me perfectly. Elastic cuffs are a bit loose, but they definitely prevent cold air from blowing in. The jacket is not bulky at all, so it's a plus for me as well; considering the fact that I usually wear 'Patagonia Torrentshell' (outerlayer) on top of this one. Internal stuff sack is great, but personally I seldomly use it. (personal preference) The Hood is very roomy and can fit the helmet if you have one. It's simply 'FANTASTIC'; no better word out there, I think. This is one of my essential gears for this winter! Another great product from Patagonia!

It was my first time using the Osprey series, and it was one of the most comfortable/reliable backpacks I've ever used. It is definitely lighter than others. I really liked its removable top compartment, removable sleeping bag straps on the bottom as well as its adjustable front pocket. Ventilation great! Back support great! Mesh pockets on the side belts are really useful. 5'10'' torse length 20in; medium fits me perfectly. Be sure to measure your torso length before making a purchase; very important! I don't normally use the bladder, but you can. For me, it's a bit expensive, but definitely well worth the money. Bottom line: it is my favorite weekend trips backpack. You should try this!

I'm a HUGE fan of Patagonia. 5'10', 185lbs, chest 42in; however, medium fits me perfectly. It is very light (I wouldn't say ultralight) and yet it maintains your core-warmth well. The inner "grid" system makes this fleece jacket the most versatile; definitely works great not only as a baselayer but also as an insulating layer. R1, obviously, isn't warmer than the rest of the Regulator series jackets, but it definitely adds warmth when layered up. I have mine in alpha green, my favorite color, and it looks awesome! I've been wearing mine for the recent hiking trips, and I can say now it is one of my most essential gears. I recommend you try it.

Lightweight & sturdy! Reasonably-priced great-quality utensil. I take this everywhere I go. I got one for myself and another for my gf, and we both love it!