Beyond Backpacking

In Beyond Backpacking we learn about the myths in today’s heavy-duty hiking
and camping gear and clothing, and we see – with several examples – how we
tend to acquire our equipment-related mis-beliefs from the advertising
industry. Heavy gear, Ray says, saps energy and strength. It makes us more
prone to injury. And it reduces our potential for enjoyment. And according to
Ray, heavy, clumsy gear tends to discourage us from venturing into the
backcountry.

With these myths bulldozed aside, Ray proceeds to detail his light-weight
hiking clothing and gear. In one chapter he describes, step by step, how to
make this clothing and equipment. And for those who lack the time to make
their own, Ray recommends a company that is making his ultralight gear
commercially – that is, gear designed by Ray himself. Beyond Backpacking also
shows – in superb detail – how to use this gear. And of course it goes into
his lightweight hiking philosophies.