Backpacker Magazine’s test crew says there is a lot of hype about great breathable rain gear so they put four to the test: Mammut Felsturm Half-Zip, Westcomb Apoc, Mountain Hardware Jovian and Columbia Peak 2 Peak / Peak Power. Check out the review. Two that meet my sub-1 pound “ultra light” test: the Mammut and Columbia.
Teva illum Flip Flops with LED
Backpacker says they are “made with the outdoor enthusiast in mind–massaging footbeds, illuminating LED lights, sturdy straps, and rock-solid arch support are just some of their sporty features.” They give the weight as 12.4 ounces for a woman’s size 8 (why do they always choose small size). I’m guessing maybe 15 ounces for the men’s version. It’s worth looking at. After injuring my achilles on a 10-mile first day backpack on  California’s Lost Coast because of poorly broken in boots, a alternative pair of shoes can be important.
Be light. Be safe. Be one with the pack.
My hiking shoes are waterproof Keen “tennis” shoes. But after walking across too many streams barefoot on sharp rocks — and an achilles injury from new boots — I decided to carry a second pair of shoes. Extra shoes, of course, means extra weight. This video shoes three alternatives. I encourage you to share other options with my readers.
Be light. Be safe. Be one with the pack.