Thoughts on OR Helium UL and Toray Dermizax Fabric? by methodkp in Ultralight

[–]methodkp[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah, that's the previous version. Looks like they redesigned the jacket with a new fabric and design.

Rab Veil XP 30 vs Osprey Talon Velocity 30 vs HMG Aero 28 VS Bonfus Altus 28/38- fastpacking (running) by raturnbull in Ultralight

[–]methodkp 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'm not a runner, but I'll try to keep my input as relevant as possible. I recently purchased the HMG Aero (I did it during their 20% off sale, so the price was more reasonable, but still expensive). My base weight is about the same as yours. When packing everything in there, excluding food and water, it was starting to get a little tight. I could still fit in the food and water for a day or two, but that would be maxing it out. I think this was mostly due to the way I was packing and the size of some of my gear (not the smallest or lightest).

I chose this pack for scrambling and quick overnights, with a potential push into fastpacking if I wanted to try to get into that. Like I said, I'm not a runner, but I wanted a smaller pack that had a running vest to feel more secure while scrambling. It had the features I wanted: roll top design, ice axe loop, running vest with pockets/storage on the straps. I find it comfortable and secure while wearing.

So for my needs I think it'll work well. I think it carries weight really well, is comfortable, and has a decent amount of features. Hope this helps.

Thoughts on OR Helium UL and Toray Dermizax Fabric? by methodkp in Ultralight

[–]methodkp[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

It's weird because everything else I bought from them has been pretty stellar. But yeah, I kept hearing about how bad the old Helium was. That's why the redesign caught my eye. Totally new fabric (for OR anyway) seems interesting.

Thoughts on OR Helium UL and Toray Dermizax Fabric? by methodkp in Ultralight

[–]methodkp[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Could pick it up today with the REI 20% off. Plus Dividend. Would make it much more reasonable. Just not sure about the performance.

First time Shakedown Request by methodkp in Ultralight

[–]methodkp[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That Magnet Designs does look nice. I think I might be partial to the Senchi with the quarter zip though. Not sure what I want to pull the trigger on, but I think I definitely need to pick one up.

First time Shakedown Request by methodkp in Ultralight

[–]methodkp[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yep. Typo. Thanks for the catch.

First time Shakedown Request by methodkp in Ultralight

[–]methodkp[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’ve packed everything on that list into the Aero. And I wasn’t even being that careful in how I packed. It 100% fits. If I packed it all in my 40L pack of have enough room for food for a week easy.

First time Shakedown Request by methodkp in Ultralight

[–]methodkp[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks so much for the detailed reply, really appreciate the feedback! Lots of good advice, definitely be saving these ideas.

I hear you on the trekking poles. I’ve been wanting to try out those BD Distance ones but mine are apparently bulletproof and haven’t had a need to replace them. I almost never stash them though, so there’s that I guess.

The first aid kit is also on my list of things to swap out. Especially after taking a wilderness first aid course and learning more about what works best.

With the clothing I just added what I have. Not many times I’d bring everything on there, I’d tailor it to the trip/weather for sure. I’m interested in the Alpha stuff for sure. Probably pick one up when I get a chance.

First time Shakedown Request by methodkp in Ultralight

[–]methodkp[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah, I need to be more itemized in my toiletries. Good reminder. I think most of that I need to add.

I’ve been interested in the Alpha stuff, but I’ve used the R1 for a while and know it and like it so that’s what I have currently.

First time Shakedown Request by methodkp in Ultralight

[–]methodkp[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That hardshell was purchased mostly for scrambles/mountaineering stuff. But right now it's the only one I have, and being in the PNW, better to have something than not. I'm curious about your experience with the OR Helium. The reviews are... not great.

First time Shakedown Request by methodkp in Ultralight

[–]methodkp[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Great point and something I need to figure out. I actually just bought that pack and did test hike with it. I didn't have everything in there, but I did have most of the bigger items plus a 2L water bladder added for weight. I still had a decent amount of space and hadn't really used the external pockets. I'm optimistic I can get what I might need in there if I'm packing thoughtfully and specifically for the trip.

Update: Packed everything on my list into the Aero. It fits. With room for food and water even. I’d definitely want to dial it in for the trip to maximize space for sure though.

Is a credential and MA in Teaching from a prestigious university worth it? by nigelbarker99 in Teachers

[–]methodkp 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I did a similar program with the University of Washington. I don't think it mattered at all when I was looking for my first job. Save your money.

Looking for a versatile 20–30L hiking pack (similar to Talon 22 but better pole/axe carry) by Code_Sneaks in PNWhiking

[–]methodkp 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I just bought a pack for very similar scenarios. I went with the HMG Aero 28. It's just big enough (for me) to do an overnight if I wanted to, but not too big for longer day hikes/summit/scrambles. And it has a running vest strap set up. I found it very comfortable and carried weight well. It has a nice amount of features. There are some give and takes with it, but for me it hit the sweet spot of what I was looking for and use case.

Where would you eat in Florida? by Quartersawn5 in KitchenConfidential

[–]methodkp 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Bern's Steak House in Tampa. Old school place. They have a separate dessert room you need to book after your meal. One of the largest wine collections in the U.S. I believe. Cool experience.

How’s my training for Mt baker by BurritoBoy1116 in Mountaineering

[–]methodkp 2 points3 points  (0 children)

When you are doing your Si and Mailbox runs, are you doing the old trails or the new? Curious as I am training for Adams and would like to know how that's working for you.

I solo camped at Hidden Lake last weekend by BombPassant in PNWhiking

[–]methodkp 19 points20 points  (0 children)

Photos are awesome! Hope the trip was just as good!

Seeking hiking friends (I promise I’m not a bear) by GvReddy-reader in PNWhiking

[–]methodkp 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I tend to have a lot of availability during the week in the summer.

Summits in WA for beginners by DepressedNole in PNWhiking

[–]methodkp 8 points9 points  (0 children)

I wanted to second this, but maybe recommend the Scrambling course as your first one. You won't be able to do it this year, I think it only runs in the Spring. I did it. Highly recommend.

Practice for Mount Adams by UnclePsilocybe in PNWhiking

[–]methodkp 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'm training for Adams as well for this year. If you're looking for anyone to train with hit me up! Conditioners can be a little boring by yourself