Anyone else feel like ultralight backpacking has taken a weird turn lately? What started as a minimalist approach ditch the extras, move faster, pack less now feels more like a shopping spree. On my last trip, someone whipped out a 3D-printed toothbrush head that fits on a spork. Cool? Kinda. Necessary? Nope. I love comfort as much as the next hiker, but when gear turns into gear-for-gear’s-sake, are we really lightening the load, or just adding more stuff?
I still dig a pump for my sleeping pad and maybe a massage ball for the sore legs, but I miss the old-school make do attitude. A zip-top bag still beats most fancy wallets, and my spoon doesn’t need a case. Anyone else seeing this shift? Do we hike for the trail or the titanium toys?
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