Rumpl Puffy Down Blanket Review
Puffy blankets, like puffy sleeping bags and coats, have gained popularity in the limelight among outdoor enthusiasts. They’re lightweight, extremely warm, and the style is frankly quite “in” at the moment. In fact, I’ve even seen puffy hats and skirts making appearances on the ski slopes lately.
So, what is a puffy blanket? How do you know if it’s a good one or if it’s right for you? There are a lot of questions that need to be answered when we try to decide on a puffy blanket.
We’re going to take a deep look at the Rumpl Puffy Blanket. I’m hoping to expose the good, the bad, and the ugly. All of this in the hopes that you’ll come away being able to make a final decision about the Rumpl Puffy Blanket to either buy it or forget it!
What is the Rumpl Puffy Blanket
To figure this out, we first need to understand what “puffy” means in the outdoor world.
Puffy essentially means a lightweight garment made of two layers of polyester or nylon with down feathers or synthetic insulation in between. This is the preferred method of construction for most garments and sleeping bags plus, in this case, a cool outdoor inspired blanket!
This blanket is made to be lighter and more portable than your standard couch blanket. Really the “performance” gains are only ideal if you plan to travel around with your blanket. If you just want to keep it on the couch at home, it will functionally become a fashion accessory that resembles an outdoor jacket.
For those who travel to hostels, enjoy skiing trips in varied locations, or just need a portable warm blanket on hand there are some gains to be had here. Unlike your bulky, heavy couch quilt the Rumpl Puffy Blanket, like the Montem Sneaky Snuggler Blanket is light enough and can be packed small enough to travel with you.
What the Rumpl Puffy Blanket is Not
This Rumpl blanket is not meant to be a backpacking quilt. It’s not a replacement for your sleeping bag on a winter ski touring trip.
Because of the heavy, bulky weight, this blanket does not make a good choice for backpackers. The sewn-through construction of the blanket itself makes it extremely inefficient compared to high-end quilts for thermal retention.
That’s not to bash the Rumpl Puffy Blanket though. Just remember it’s exactly what the title says – a blanket.
If you were hoping this blanket could replace your sleeping bag, you may be disappointed in the 3+ pound weight of the Rumple Puffy Blanket or the nearly 2L packed size. However, you’ll be happy to know that most advanced backpacking quilts wight a fraction of this, have far superior warmth efficiency, and pack down much smaller.
Unfortunately, these advanced backpacking quilts can cost 3x as much or more (well over $300 in many cases). So in the same stroke – don’t buy a backpacking quilt as an at-home blanket because it’ll break the bank! If you want better value check out the Montem Sneaky Snuggler or Kelty Bestie.
Should I Buy the Rumpl Puffy Blanket?
If you really love the look and feel of your puffy Patagonia Nano Puff jackets (as an example) and you would love to nestle into a pile of fluffy, warm, outdoor fabric on your evening couch then this blanket is for you.
The one person model is over 3 pounds of ripstop nylon with 3D Hollow Fiber Synthetic Insulation inside. It does compress small enough to be more portable than most home blankets, but not so much as to compete with high-end quilts and sleeping bags.
I have to point out that the DWR treated ripstop nylon seems like an odd choice. I can’t for the life of me figure out what anyone would get this blanket into a situation where water spray would be an issue. Perhaps if you’re sleeping out under a tarp or awning in the backyard and happen to get caught in a rainstorm?
There is one major advantage that might not be the first to pop into your mind.
If you live in a house with a ton of pets, the ripstop nylon won’t get loaded with animal hair. Many traditional blankets become gross with fuzz and animal hair after a while but those things won’t collect on the slippery surface of a nylon blanket.
On the flip side of that coin, the 20 denier ripstop nylon is much too fragile to withstand dog and cat claws stepping on it. So if you like to snuggle with the pets, don’t be surprised if their nails rip the blanket.
I have to admit, the colors and aesthetic of outdoor gear hold a warm place in my heart. If you’re like me, this blanket appeals to you simply for that reason. All technicality aside, it’s an appealing home aesthetic to the outdoor enthusiast, there’s no doubt.
I can see this blanket making the perfect companion to wrap around your shoulders on a cool morning while you sit on the porch sipping a coffee and watching the sunrise. Or maybe you’re traveling to the family cabin for the weekend and sleeping on the couch – you can rely on the Rumpl Puffy Blanket.
Conclusion
This attractive and functional outdoor blanket holds a special appeal I think. While it may not be the technical performance king of all outdoor gear it is pretty cool.
Just remember the drawbacks of lightweight 20D nylon – it isn’t bombproof. Keep it away from the fireplace or animal claws.
Whether you want it for weekend car camping trips, visiting the family cottage, or lounging around at home I think it makes a cool blanket companion. Besides, just think of how cool you’ll look wrapped up in that nylon blanket on your next ski trip!
Before you commit to purchasing, make sure to be realistic with your expectations. It is a blanket, after all. This is not a high end piece of backpacking gear. But it makes an awesome addition to your collection if you love the look and feel of sleeping bags and backpacking quilts!
Montem Sneaky Snuggler Puffy Blanket Review
Looking for a new companion to keep you warm as the evening wears on and you’re curled up on the couch? Or maybe you’re sipping a coffee in the cool morning air on your porch. Either way, if you’re like me you probably enjoy your outdoor gear. So why not have a blanket that reminds you every day of those trail hikes from days gone by?
There are only a handful of outdoor-inspired blankets available right now. They’re great for those days around the house when you need some warmth but don’t necessarily want to crawl into a mummy bag on the couch. Among them, the Montem Sneaky Snuggler remains a top consideration.
So, how do you start to decide if the Montem Sneaky Snuggler is right for you? There’s a handful of considerations you need to make before you settle on a final choice. I’m going to help guide you through the decision so you can rest assured that the blank you choose is the one companion you can rely on!
What is the Montem Sneak Snuggler Blanket?
This outdoor-inspired blanket is aimed right at the heart of adventurers. While it only comes in one color, the blanket itself is a solid choice for staying warm on adventures. It’s closer to a duvet than a mummy bag but that’s alright. There’s no need for a mummy bag on the couch!
I personally really like the wave-like wood grain style sewn seams. Reminiscent of the Rumpl Puffy Blanket, these sewn seams are pleasing and make an awesome aesthetic addition to rustic areas.
Sneaky might be the perfect description for this blanket because the midnight blue of the fabric matches a dusky eve like a color picker. Just make sure that you scope out a place around the house for this comforter style blanket. It’s quite large and will likely stay in the house 95% of the time.
What the Montem Sneaky Snuggler is Not
Like other outdoor inspired blankets we’ve reviewed, it’s important to know where to draw the line. It can be easy to mistake these as competitors for mummy bags and backpacking quilts but they’re just not going to keep up.
While it’s a warm blanket made from outdoor fabrics and insulation, the Sneaky Snuggler is may be too heavy and large to make a viable hiking or backpacking companion for those that need to pack light.
Don’t get me wrong – it can be a perfect car camping or backyard snoozing companion. But for hikers and backpackers, it’s never going to be small enough or light enough to take on an overnight in the backcountry.
The synthetic insulation isn’t terrible in wet conditions. I can’t imagine why you’d get it wet, but if it happens there’s no problem with hanging it over a line and letting it dry. You won’t hurt the blanket one bit.
Montem Sneaky Snuggler Weight
Tipping the scales a bit over 2 pounds, this blanket is definitely not a feather. But seriously – who cares? Remember, it’s not even meant to be carried around regularly so there’s no need nitpicking over the weight of it.
Over 2 pounds isn’t bad for lugging around the house or tossing over your legs near the fire in the backyard. It’s probably best not to get caught up in the overall weight of this blanket.
One thing to note is that the additional weight, compared to other outdoor blankets, means more warmth. Most of the extra weight seems to come from loft insulation. This blanket is definitely thicker than others like the Kelty Bestie.
Montem Sneak Snuggler Insulation
Inside this Montem puffy blanket is a stuffing of 3D Hollow Fill insulation. This stuff is quite warm, but heavy compared to other materials. It’s often used in mummy bags and apparel for cold temperatures and it’s largely resistant to water.
Like most blankets, the sewn through stitching makes it less energy efficient. Hot air escapes through the sewn lines where insulation can’t keep the hot air trapped. This isn’t a big deal for an indoor blanket and using baffled seams would make the blanket more fragile and expensive anyway.
Montem Sneaky Snuggler Shell Material
On the outside of this blanket, you’ll find two layers of identical 20 denier ripstop nylon. 20D nylon is pretty thin, but it’s comparable to most outdoor puffy jackets.
If you own a puffy jacket you know they’re not invincible, but they won’t fall apart either. 20D ripstop is light enough to keep the blanket weight down but robust enough to last many, many years. However, you’ll need to be aware that pets and sharp objects can be an issue.
Dog and cat claws may easily snag, rip, or tear 20D nylon so don’t expect to let the doggo snuggle on your blanket without consequences.
Montem Sneaky Snuggler Size
This might be the single most important factor in the world of blankets for most of us. Having a huge, snuggly blanket is one of the most luxurious ways to enjoy an evening. But the second your blanket pulls up too high and your toes poke out into the cold, it’s enough to evoke rage in all but the most zen of us.
If you can’t tell, I hate small blankets. Thankfully this one is plenty big!
At 6.6 feet long by 4.5 feet wide there is plenty of room even for most of us who are taller. There might be enough room for you and a sweetie, but it won’t be much. You’ll have to snuggle close, but most of us won’t complain about an excuse to snuggle.
Conclusion
When you start comparing the Montem Sneaky Snuggler with other outdoor blankets, it’s become a solid winner. Because of its generous size and thick insulation, it makes a competitive choice among blankets.
As long as you like the color of the Sneaky Snuggler the rest of the features fall in line easily. With generous insulation and lightweight shell materials, it feels like a mummy bag. I love the waves of wood grain inspired sewing that makes the blanket bring a rustic feel to any room. Grab yourself one and you’ll have enough room for yourself or a partner.
BAFX Products – Anti Shock Hiking / Walking / Trekking Trail Poles Review
EDITOR'S COMMENT:
Well, I've got quite a bit of commentary for these poles. My team and I took it on our trip to Bear Mountain in New York. Initially, they were holding up fine. But, as the trek continued, we noticed some things of concern. First, the plastic handles are poorly made. They started to lose grip as we progressed through our hike (due to the sweat making it slick). When we came across rocky terrain, the plastic felt as though it were crackling from our grip. The compass on top is a nice addition, but it seems to be a bit flimsy.
UPDATE 8/17: We decided to take it on a second trip. Unfortunately, the pole bent.
DESIGN:
BAFX Products – 2 Pack – Anti Shock Hiking / Walking / Trekking Trail Poles – 1 Pair is durable. This is made of lightweight aluminum. Another advantage is that it can extend from the 25.5 to 53 inches that can be suitable for individuals of many heights. It comes with an anti-shock spring. It comes equipped with plastic grips and wrist straps.
FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS:
- It is made of the lightweight aluminum and it can extend from 25.5 to 53 inches.
- It comes with an anti-shock spring that offers more comfortable trekking.
- You will get plastic grip and wrist strap. And each pair will come with two spare tips. You will have four tips to get started.
- Rubber feet are included to aid on your journey.
- It come with an optional snow disk that you can use on the softer ground coverings.
- It comes with an easy to use twist locking system.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS AND SCORES:
It is one of the most inexpensive products, and if you're going to do more than nordic walking, it shows. Another thing of note is the handles have occasionally been delivered facing two different directions.
On the bright side, the weight is light enough that children can carry it for a long time without any discomfort.
There have also been comments suggesting the plastic make-up of the handles are flimsy, expressing concerns that they've cracked under pressure.
CONCLUSION:
If your budget is under $20, and you want a decent set of trekking poles to walk around the neighborhood, then we say go for these. Otherwise, stay away, because these will fail during a more intense hike.
Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles Review
EDITORS COMMENT:
Before diving into the specs and further details, I would have to say I had many gripes with this pole. I would venture to say a lot of the reviews on Amazon have been faked. I was not too pleased with the grip, nor was I all that enthralled with the way the poles wobbled on the terrain. Granted, wobbling can happen, but no matter what the placement, the poles seemed to shift and slide a bit. This wasn't pleasant in the least, and could actually be quite dangerous.
FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS:
- Lightweight carbon fiber construction - under 1lb for a pair.
- Quick lock snaps which make height adjustment easy and reliable.
- Cork handles, which will shape to your hand(to provide some editor's insight, I've found I prefer EVA foam because cork tends to crack and tear faster).
- Wrist strap.
- Includes snow discs and mud baskets, as well as a carbide tip and rubber cap.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS AND SCORES:
The CMT poles are very versatile trekking poles. It can provide sufficient balance, prevent blisters, lightweight or do any of the several things a good trekking pole is capable of.
Currently, CMT poles have found 301 customer reviews, and they have been awarded 4.5 stars out of a possible 5 on average. This is an incredible rating! The customer reviews on Amazon are positive generally, but there were a number of negative sentiments.
Nonetheless, many hikers or backpackers who have used these poles seem to have experienced comfort. Other clients said, “Got my pair and they’re stronger than any pole at typical outdoor retailers and way less expensive. You can feel the comfort isn't quite as noticeable, but they get the job done."
CONCLUSION:
Whether your new to trekking, or you're a seasoned veteran, I wouldn't put these poles at the top of my list. They're great for strolls at a moderate pace, but anything heavier or more taxing would be a bit dangerous as they have an issue with sliding and wobbling.
Generally, the Quick Lock Carbon Fiber Cork Grip Trekking Poles were very comfortable for the first couple of uses, but over time I noticed the handle did lose its comfort and cushion. Having the foam grips and the cork handles assisted in the several different situations.
I was very happy with their remarkable performance on the basic trail (once again, flat surface and sturdy flooring - once exposed to a rougher trail, these poles lost their magic touch). The retail price of $49.99 makes them very affordable too.
DESIGN:
Though lever locks of the CMT are less refined than FlickLock of the Montem Trekking Poles or even those on Carbon Power Lock Poles, they work. Honestly, the shaft never slided; they never required occasional readjustment; and after nearly 2 hard weeks of use, they still work as well as when they’re new.
On top of the Quick Lock Poles, CMT provides a Twist Lock version. I would avoid these: the design is essentially less reliable, and the CMT poles I acquired in 2012 have proven to be similar.
The CMT pole grips are essentially made of high-density foam cork that’s far superior to rubber and plastic but not as necessary as (much more costly) 100% cork. But, to note, it is cork at the end of the day will degrade faster than EVA foam which we consider superior.
Moreover, I’m happy that the CMT poles boast foam extension grips that I frequently use when side-hilling or when hiking steeply uphill. If poles don’t have this feature, it is a deal-breaker for me.
Note that on the website of CMT, the Quick Lock poles are also available with the cork grips, for the similar price. But be careful — assuming it is the same cork like on my CMT twist poles from 2012, it doesn’t feel or appear like real cork, and at least a single backpacker had a negative experience with them.
Mountaintop [2-Pack] 3-Section Retractable Lightweight Trekking Poles Review
EDITORS COMMENT:
Retractable lightweight trekking poles by Mountaintop are perfect companion for outdoor activities as they are sturdy and durable due to their aluminum composition. They are perfect for activities like hiking, trekking, climbing, mountaineering, and backpacking.
I recently took these Mountaintop Trekking Poles on a trip to Seattle. Over the course of 3 weeks I used the poles totaling roughly 80 hours of active hiking. One thing that immediately stood out to me was the grip. Unfortunately, the padding was a bit thin. It did cause a bit of discomfort, but nothing dramatically bad. I also had to be careful where I placed the pole. On flat terrain, it held up fine, but when traversing rocky paths I could feel the pole losing it's stability/wobbling a bit.
Unfortunately, the grips don't extend down the shaft either. This was noticeable when I went uphill/downhill, as I couldn't adjust my hand placement. This did cause noticeable wrist pain, which is a decent cause for concern.
DESIGN:
These lightweight trekking poles can be retracted to 3 sections ranging from 24 inches to 53 inches to make its packing easier. These poles of 24 inch or 62 cm length can be adjusted very easily due to their light weight of 9.5 oz or 0.59 pounds and their lever lock system.
FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS:
- The durable strap of Mountaintop [2-Pack] 3-Section Retractable Lightweight Trekking Poles helps in transferring some of your force from your hand to wrist by supporting your wrist.
- The users can grip these poles with lesser force than others
- The lever locks system of these poles makes it easy to extend the poles up to 53 inches with the help of its quick-lock adjustment. The bolts on their levers allow you to adjust its angle easily.
- These trekking poles are available in various colors including Black, Golden, Maroon, Silvery and Sky Blue from which you can choose as per your liking and suitability.
- Theses extendable trekking poles can be extended from 24 inches to 53 inches just by loosening their lock mechanism and adjusting their shaft down or up to increase or decrease their length as per your requirement.
- Mountaintop ensures the quality of these trekking poles by offering 90 days limited period warranty on them.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS AND SCORES:
Mountaintop [2-Pack] 3-Section Retractable Lightweight Trekking Poles are really versatile trekking sticks as they can be used for hiking, trekking, climbing, backpacking and mountaineering with equal ease and comfort due to their retractable, safe and sturdy structure.
The reviews of more than 45 customers of Mountaintop Retractable Lightweight Trekking Poles have rated them averagely for 4.6 stars out of 5 whereas 78% of them have rated them for 5 out of 5 stars on the basis of their durable and comfortable use.
Though overall reviews of the customers on Amazon were positive but one of them does not find them suitable for heavy duty use as they collapsed when he put more load on them. Moreover he has to struggle a lot to adjust them as per his requirement.
CONCLUSION:
But such complaint was not registered by the other users of these trekking sticks. It proves that it is not a prevalent difficulty and may not occur if used carefully. Most of the other users have reviewed it as very comfortable and convenient trekking equipment at various types of trekking and hiking terrains. Most of them have recommended these sticks for all kinds of outdoor activities during mountaineering and trekking expeditions due to their sturdy and durable built and comfortable adjustment and handling features. “I liked them not only for their nice grips and for adjustments as I am short....” “These are the best for hiking on all types of terrains” and “It is really light but becomes really solid when stretched to use as a trekking pole” are the reviews of some of the users who were satisfied with the working of these trekking sticks.
8
Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles Review
EDITORS CHOICE
EDITOR'S COMMENT:
Before we get into the features, specs, design, and reviews, I'd like to talk about my experience with these Montem trekking poles. I took them on my trip to Mount Saint Helens. They were very sturdy, and had what I consider the ideal amount of give when traversing rocky terrain. They're got rubber feet that can be interchanged with the base tip made out of carbon steel. The only issue I had was figuring out I had to tighten the locking mechanism before use. Once I figured that out, I was good to go!
Over the course of my journey, they held up exponentially well - much better than Black Diamond. For 1/2 the price of the more expensive poles, I got the same, if not a better experience. They provided the same stability and comfort of those higher end poles. I could tell that they were built to live up to their model name and motto of being ultra strong.
DESIGN:
Whenever you are traveling, regardless of whether it is just for hours or extended days, weeks or months, the size of your poles matter a great deal. Carrying cumbersome items and more so trekking poles with you is quite discouraging. In other words, trekking poles are meant to facilitate your trekking experience and not to hinder it. In addition to these Montem poles being compact enough at just 24-inches in height, they are lightweight enough, weighing 9.6 ounces each, thus making them the sturdy and ultra-light poles for travel.
FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS:
- Feature adjustable bolts that allow an adventurer of any height to easily adjust the poles between 24-in and 53-in thus achieving the perfect height they need.
- Crafted and constructed using aluminum 7075, an airplane construction material thus guaranteeing you strength and durability.
- Ultra-light trekking poles having a total of 9.2 ounces per pole. Airplane materials are not only durable but light. Since you already have enough to carry on your back, a trekking pole that is too heavy becomes burdensome rather than to help you climb that steep.
- The trekking poles are accompanied with straps meant to improve the safety of your journey. At last, the worries of dropping your trekking poles have been eliminated.
- A one year limited warranty is very generous for a trekking pole.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS AND SCORES:
Rare will you get a product that rates 5-star out of 5 after the first 39 reviews. This is a 100% approval rate. At the time of writing this review, all the thirty nine customers to have reviewed the product gave it a five star rating.
The aesthetic appearance of the poles together with the generous one-year warranty is the most attractive features to most customers. Other reasons that attracted customers and made them to love it include the fact that the product has been built using aircraft-grade aluminum thus not only making it durable but very lightweight.
The construction is excellent, design is of high quality and ergonomics have been factored in thus offering the customers not only a smooth handle but also perfect grips.
One customer who has been buying these walking poles for years commends this product for being all round. Unlike other poles which would have many good features and one negative issue, this pole has nothing negative to talk about. Some of the poles he had bought earlier would either be adjustable but lacks sturdiness... or sturdy but fails in adjustability. At least that’s not the case with these Ultra strong Trekking poles.
So far, there is nothing negative that has been said by any of the customers who have bought these trekking poles thus making it very easy to recommend the product.
CONCLUSION:
If you’re on a fixed budget, these should be your best choice. I cannot fault the magnificent design of these trekking poles. The EVA cork handles and aluminum design make them compete with the $100+ trekking poles and the twist locks are very strong.
The Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles have been designed and constructed to last. All you need are poles that are capable of supporting you. Crafted out of airplane construction grade aluminum material, the poles have absolutely all the features sought for in a trekking pole namely; they are sturdy, they are strong thus durable and they are lightweight too. With these walking poles, you will experience the sturdiest and smoothest trekking experience that’s perfect for your gear and backpack.
Montem Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles Review
EDITOR'S COMMENT:
Montem Outdoor Gear is a company that has over the years proved itself to be a trustworthy and a quality maker of hiking and outdoor gear. This company has some of the best hiking equipment available in the market, especially trekking poles. The Ultrallight Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles are yet another addition to its arsenal of top notch hiking equipment. These poles by Montem are perfect for hiking, trekking, walking, mountaineering, snowshoeing and a wide variety of other outdoor adventure travel.
Trekking poles are one of the most important and an indispensable piece of equipment that you should not miss out while packing your bags for the next hiking/outdoor trip. These poles have come as a life saver to many as they reduce fatigue by a very significant amount and also help you balance yourself while on the dangerous and uneven hiking trails. So if you have not bought yourself one of these, then it is high time you consider buying a pair if you’re planning a hiking trip anytime soon.
DESIGN:
The Montem Ultralight Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles are very durable and are sure to last for a long time. These poles feature tungsten tips, 100% carbon fiber and handles made of EVA Foam which is much stronger and more comfortable than cork (in our opinion). This efficient combination of features makes these poles support you optimally. Unlike most other trekking poles, these are not a mixture of carbon fiber and aluminum but are actually 100% carbon fiber throughout the shaft. That is a very rare feature and not something you find in every trekking pole manufacturer. The great thing about carbon fiber is that it is a natural and efficient anti-shock material.
As far as the size is concerned, these poles are quite compact and are thus very easy to pack into your backpack. Cumbersome and bulky equipment are highly undesirable while out on a journey and thus these poles have been designed to be ultra light. These poles can be closed down to a size of only 24 inches which will enable you to easily fit it into any backpack easily.
These poles also weigh only 7.6 ounces per pole and are one of the lightest carbon fiber trekking poles available in the market. These are a great pair since they do not compromise on the strength and sturdiness of the poles while still being compact and ultra light.
As far as the adjustability is concerned, these trekking poles by Montem are absolutely brilliant. They are very versatile and can be efficiently used according to the needs and requirements of the user. Adjustable bolts allow you to adjust the size of the poles from anything between 24 inches to 53 inches depending on the height so that your body can be in perfect form. This goes a long way in reducing the pressure applied on various parts of the body while hiking. There is a rubber cover on the metal tips of each of the poles and you will also have access to a bunch of various accessories that are uncommon with other brands of trekking poles.
Mud baskets are provided with these poles which are greatly helpful while trekking through muddy or snowy conditions. Overall, all the features of the poles are pretty reliable and neat and you will have pretty much everything that you could expect from a trekking pole.
FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS:
- Adjustable bolts allow you to adjust the height of the poles from 24 inches to 53 inches in order to achieve the perfect lenght depending on your height.
- Nylon straps ensure that the poles never slip out of your hands thus ensuring you a safe journey. At last, the worries of dropping your trekking poles have been eliminated.
- Ultra-light trekking poles having a total of 7.6ounces per pole. Since you already have enough to carry on your back, a trekking pole that is too heavy becomes burdensome rather than to help you climb that steep.
- Crafted out of 100% carbon fiber, which is a natural anti-shock material. These poles are not a mixture between aluminum and carbon fiber.
- A one year limited warranty is very generous for a trekking pole.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS AND SCORES:
Rare will you get a product that rates 5-star out of 5 a few weeks after launch. This is a 100% approval rate. At the time of writing this review, all the customers to have reviewed the product gave it a five star rating.
The aesthetic appearance of the poles together with the generous one-year warranty is the most attractive features to most customers. Other reasons that attracted customers and made them to love it include the fact that the product has been built using great quality carbon fiber thus not only making it durable but very lightweight.
The construction is excellent, design is of high quality and ergonomics have been factored in thus offering the customers not only a smooth handle but also perfect grips.
Montem Outdoor Gear has always impressed its customers with its fine quality products that perform just as they are advertised. These poles are no different. Although, these poles are designed to withstand moderate trekking in light-moderately challenging conditions, there have been many reviews where they have performed equally well in tough conditions. These poles have one of the highest weight thresholds and are a quite versatile pair of poles that can perform well in a variety of conditions and trails.
So far, there is nothing negative that has been said by any of the customers who have bought these trekking poles thus making it very easy to recommend the product.
CONCLUSION:
If you’re on a fixed budget, these should be your best choice. I cannot fault the magnificent design of these trekking poles. The cork handles and carbon fiber make them compete with the $100+ trekking poles and the twist locks are very strong.
If a top end trekking pole that comes with all sorts of features but at a modest price is what you are looking for, then this is the pole you should get. Montem Ultralight Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles match the performance of poles that are priced at double the price. They provide one of the best value for money deals that you can get. Regardless of whether you are a professional outdoor enthusiast or just a casual traveler, these trekking poles by Montem will serve your needs perfectly. It is next to impossible to find a better deal at this price and is thus highly recommended. Go ahead and try it out; you won't be disappointed.
Outlander 20L/33LPackable Lightweight Daypack Review
Hiking Backpacks are an indispensable part of any hiking expedition that you undertake. These convenient backpacks allow you to neatly organize all your equipment and necessities into one little sack that you can easily carry on your back.
Now there are several types of hiking backpacks that serve different purposes. We have full sized expedition packs that are designed for treks or expeditions that last for multiple days. Then there are hiking daypacks that are much smaller and are made for smaller treks that last a day or less. This durable backpack by Outlander is a hiking daypack that is meant for short adventure trips.
So in case you’re planning a weekend trek through the serene woods or ahike across the rolling hills, you’re going to need a good quality hiking daypack. The Outlander 20L/33L Hiking Daypack is one of the best options for you to choose from as it offers great value for the money you invest. Packed with all sorts of convenient features and crafted from a strong high quality material, this backpack is sure to take care of all your storage needs.
Outlander is one of the leading manufacturers of travel accessories especially hiking gear. They have made a name for themselves in the field and hence is a brand that we can trust. This daypack by Outlander is a versatile, ultra-light and reliable backpack that comes at a throwaway price. It has a sleek and stylish look and is for all those minimalists who strive to keep things light and comfortable. This go-anywhere backpack is suitable for everyday use such as school, college and for short day-trips.
The Outlander 20/33L has been listed on several websites as the best travel daypack. It is extremely durable thanks to high quality rip and water resistant ripstop nylon fabric. Ripstop nylon has recently gained popularity due to its puncture resistance and waterproofing properties that make it highly suitable as a material for making hiking backpacks. This fabric provides immense strength and long lasting performance to these backpacks and they are sure to last you a very long time if taken well care of.
This backpack also features a durable 2-way abrasion resistant SBS metal zippers on both sides and across the backpack. These SBS zippers are corrosion resistant and do not rust easily even when subjected to wet environments. Moreover, this backpack has bar tacking at numerous stress points which help to even out the stress equally throughout the pack and increase it longevity.
The lightweight nature of the Outlander 20/33L backpack is another great feature that is especially preferred by lightweight backpackers. The 20L version weighs only 0.46 pounds while the 33L weighs only 0.5 pounds. Lightweight backpacks are great for day hikes as they allow you to store more stuff without having to worry about things getting too heavy. For us lightweight backpackers, every gram counts.
As far as the capacity of these packs are concerned, there are two options for you to pick. There is a 20L version which is more suitable for day to day activities and general short distance travel. It is great for school, college and for pretty much any regular outdoor activity that requires you to carry stuff around. The 33L version is better suited for hikes and small adventures because it allows you to store a significantly higher amount of items in your backpack. Both these versions have identical features and so the one you choose should depend on how much stuff you plan to carry around.
One of the best features of this Outlander backpack is the fold ability. You can easily fold this backpack into the zippered inner pockets then pack it into your suitcase and use it later as an additional storage. It will also help you avoid extra baggage charges at airports.
This backpack by Outlander scores a high when it comes to style. It features a classic shape and has multiple pockets for storage and organization. Apart from the roomy main compartment which you can use to store the bulkier items, there are two additional front zipper pockets and one internal zipper security pocket. The internal security pockets can be used to store valuables and other fragile stuff. It also has two side pockets for holding water bottles and even come with carabiner clips for you to attach things to the pack.
So if you are looking to buy a backpack for short distance hiking, this Outlander Lightweight backpack is definitely worth your consideration. It is ultra-light, ultra-durable and ultra-comfortable – pretty much everything you can expect out of a backpack. Moreover, Outlander provides lifetime warranty on this backpack which speaks volumes about the quality of the product. Overall, a great backpack for anyone who likes to keep things simple and light.
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Montem Diadema 18L Daypack Review
Hiking as an outdoor activity has gained immense popularity over the last decade. People all over the world are planning adventurous trips to far off places to experience the thrills of nature. If you are one of those people then you’ve come to the right place.
Hiking requires quite a lot of equipment that you must carry around to ensure your safety while you are on the trail. These include trekking poles, sleeping bags, tents and a ton of other tools and necessities that are required for your well-being. Carrying all of these around can be a huge hassle and ordinary backpacks are nowhere near enough to fit all of the stuff you’ll be needing during a trek.
This is where the need for a special hiking daypack such as the Montem Diadema 18L Daypack arises. Hiking daypacks are specially designed to pack in all necessary equipment into one and keep them in an organized manner. These hiking backpacks are also made of special materials that provide additional durability to make sure they survive the wild.
Montem is a well-known brand that has made a mark in the field of trekking gear over the past few years. It has established itself as a trusted manufacturer of hiking gear and they have lived up to people’s expectations consistently.
The Diadema 18L Daypack by Montem is yet another quality product by the company. If you’re new to the world of hiking and are looking for a compact and lightweight hiking backpack for short distance treks, then this is the perfect choice.
The Diadema 18L Daypack is made of 100% ripstop nylon which is one of the best suited materials for hiking backpacks. As the name suggests “ripstop” nylon can take a beating and still not tear. It is a puncture resistant material that is extremely durable and long lasting. If these backpacks are properly maintained, they will last you a lifetime. A high quality durable material is something that should be must for any outdoor daypack because ordinary materials are quite fragile and are sure to tear. Additionally, ripstop nylon also has waterproofing properties that make it highly suitable for outdoor activities.
Moving on to the weight of this daypack by Montem, it’s fair to say that this backpack is one of the lightest in the market. Weighing at only 4oz, you will be able to take this to every adventure, journey or even use it for general everyday travel. Personally, the weight of the backpack does not matter much to me since I do not carry around too much equipment for short day hikes. But if you’re going to need a lot of equipment then you should definitely look for a lightweight backpack.
This backpack by Montem is an 18L daypack which is enough space for you to store everything that you can possibly need on a short day trip. Remember, this backpack is not meant for long distance treks that take more than a day. The 18L volume of this backpack will let you store all your basic gear and other stuff such as rain jackets, first aid kits, headlamp, camera, food and water etc. You can even use this for your daily travels as they aren’t too bulky and can store a lot of stuff.
The Diadema 18L daypack features an internal hydration sleeve which is a must for summer hikes and warm climates. You can use any 1.5L – 3L hydration pack with this backpack. The hydration sleeve more than makes up for the absence of an external water bottle hostler.
As far as the durability of the Montem Diadema 18L daypack is concerned, it is one of the sturdiest backpacks that you will find in the market at this price range. I’ve tested the Diadema 18L out on a few camping trips where it has been subjected to some pretty rough conditions and it came out without a scratch. But having said that, it is quite hard to ascertain the durability of any backpack during short term use.
The only foolproof way of knowing how sturdy a backpack is, is to use it for years and years until It eventually breaks down. However, it is assured that the ripstop nylon used to make this backpack will ensure it lasts for a long time.
Overall, this hiking daypack by Montem is one of the most value for money backpacks available out in the market. This is especially great if you’re looking to use this on short camping or hiking treks. The lightweight combined with lots space and durability is great for day-to-day outdoor use.
The price of the Diadema 18L is quite modest as compared to backpacks by other brands that have similar specifications. So if you’re looking to buy yourself a quality hiking daypack, you should definitely consider this one.
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Venture Pal Lightweight Packable Daypack Review
Hiking is one of those outdoor activities that require you to carry around quite a lot of equipment and other kinds of necessities that you may require during your treks. These include food supplies, water, first aid kits, tents, trekking poles and other such stuff. A regular backpack is never enough to hold all the stuff that you need during treks and hence the need for hiking backpacks arise.
Hiking backpacks are designed keeping in mind the requirements of hikers. They are specially designed to withstand the forces of nature and have several compartments that are extremely convenient during treks.
Venture Pal is a fairly new entrant to the world of hiking gear and is steadily making its way up with its wide range of high quality trekking equipment. Venture Pal was established in 2015 and has since came out with promising products that have become well known for their durability and top notch performance.
This Lightweight Packable and Durable hiking backpack by Venture Pal is yet another exceptional product by the company. This backpack is especially great if you’re on a budget and are looking to get yourself a quality hiking daypack that has a lot of space.
This foldable hiking daypack by Venture Pal has a very stylish look and is also great for day-to-day travel as well as for outdoor treks. This backpack is the perfect companion for you irrespective of whether you’re a professional hiker or a casual player in the world of hiking.
The Venture Pal Daypack is a true space saver as it can easily be folded into its own pocket for storage. This will not only save a lot of space but also ensure you do not have to pay extra baggage fees. The backpack folds into the zipped inner pockets and can be packed down to roughly the size of a small handbag. You can later unfold the pockets and turn it into a fully functional backpack once again in a matter of seconds. The dimensions of the folded backpack is only 9 x 8.5 x 2.2 inches while the unfolded backpack is 20 x 13 x 7.5 inches.
This backpack by Venture Pal scores highly when it comes to durability. Made of high quality tear and water resistant material, this backpack provides additional strength and long lasting performance. The special material used to manufacture this backpack is extremely durable and lightweight at the same time. The double layered bottom piece provides an additional boost of strength to this backpack and makes is easier to carry additional load while on your journeys. This backpack also features heavy duty SBS two way metal zippers on both the sides making in convenient for operation on whichever side you prefer. There are bar tacks at some of the major stress points across the backpack that further enhance the longevity of the product.
This backpack also performs brilliantly when it comes to comfort. The breathable mesh shoulder straps have ample sponge padding that helps to relieve stress from your shoulders. Good padding is always required for hiking backpacks as they go a long way in reducing the chances of shoulder injury while on the trail. The length of the shoulder strap of this backpack is also adjustable. The Venture Pal backpack also has a chest strap with a whistle buckle that helps you lock the backpack securely in place.
This Venture Pal Backpack is extremely lightweight at only 0.7 Pounds thus making it ideal for long outdoor treks. The weight of you backpack becomes extremely crucial when you are packing in a ton of stuff. Bulky backpacks that are too heavy can be disastrous during long treks especially if they do not have sufficient padding.
You also have a lot of storage space in this backpack that is more than enough to store everything you could need on a trek. The total volume of this backpack is 35L which is significantly more than what you get in other backpacks in the same price range. It has one main zipped compartment which you can use to store a majority of your stud, especially the bulky ones.
There are also two additional front zipped pockets and two side pockets that you can use for storing the smaller stuff. The main compartment has two separators which will help you a lot to organize things further. The backpack also comes with two water bottle hostlers.
Reviews of this hiking daypack has been predominantly positive on Amazon with most customers praising the comfort and durability of the backpack. This backpack comes packed with tons of useful features at a very economical price. The company also offers lifetime warranty on this backpack which gives added value.
The Venture Pal Lightweight Daypack is highly recommended for all outdoor enthusiasts and is definitely one of our top picks when it comes to lightweight hiking daypacks.