Product deep dives
Detailed conversations about design decisions, tradeoffs, materials, and field use.
A practical podcast for backpackers who want to go lighter, move better, and build more confidence in the backcountry.

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In this episode of the Live Ultralight Podcast, Tayson and Brigham introduce Special Projects, a new Outdoor Vitals program created to design gear for narrow, high-stakes problems in small batches instead of chasing broad appeal. They cover the goals of the program, its origins and the first Special...
What crossover does ultralight backpacking have with backcountry hunting? In this episode of Ask OV, we cover the crossover and how to use it; wisdom learned from the tradeoffs; and how to maintain your mind while you're on trail. Things we cover in this episode: - What weight threshold requires a h...
Every year we have the privilege of hosting the OV 100 Mile Challenge, a DIY challenge helping participants to get out and backpack 100 miles in one summer. Our team participates as well. This year, we did around 110 miles starting at Tennessee Pass on the Colorado Trail and ending at Buffalo Creek....
In this episode of Ask OV we dive into fan questions; discussing water filters in the winter, navigating dry stretches, calorie demands on trail, and more. Things we cover in this episode: How do you keep a backpacking water filter from freezing in winter? Can I use a water filter in the winter? How...
In this episode of the Live Ultralight Podcast, the team addresses common challenges backpackers face on extended trips, including managing caloric intake, improving backcountry sleep, and troubleshooting equipment failures. Drawing from recent field experience, this discussion provides practical st...
In this solo episode of the Live Ultralight Podcast, Tayson marks the 12th anniversary of Outdoor Vitals by detailing the brand's evolution from a college startup to a successful creator of performance-first ultralight backpacking gear. This discussion serves as a comprehensive update for the hiking...
Are you planning a bucket-list trip to Coyote Gulch, Utah? In this episode, the team breaks down everything you need to know for a successful backpacking adventure in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. We dive deep into the ultimate footwear debate: Can you really backpack 25+ miles in sandal...
What's the difference between a backpacking water filter and a purifier? Why do we keep coming back to the Platypus QuickDraw? And how do you make shorter backpacking trips more comfortable without overpacking? In this Ask OV episode of the Live Ultralight Podcast, we answer listener questions about...
In this session of "Ask OV", Tayson and Brigham share some insider info that you aren't going to want to miss! Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast)...
Join Tayson & Tyler as they go into the difference switching from one trail shoe to another can ACTUALLY make... Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com ! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcas...
Detailed conversations about design decisions, tradeoffs, materials, and field use.
Education for building a lighter, more capable, more comfortable system.
How to cover more ground while staying prepared for mountain conditions.