Episode Details

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Dan Durston. Dan is the gear nerd's gear nerd. In addition to hiking the PCT and being one of only two people to yo-yo the Great Divide Trail (the other being his wife as they did it together), Dan is visionary behind the new gear company, Durston Gear. We go way deep down the rabbit hole on why polyester tents are making a comeback and are possibly the ultimate fabric for shelters, how he's able to execute on his philosophy of creating lightweight gear that's super easy to setup, how his being a loudmouth on the Backpackinglight forums made his gear company possible, and much more. If you're into gear technology, even if you're not, we bet you're really going to enjoy this conversation.

Also, our buddy Legend breaks another FKT, we have another Reddit Brain Buster, and we have a point counter point on the virtues of summer vs. fall backpacking.

Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code: PoopStory for 15% off your entire cart at gossamergear.com.

"How to Afford a Thru-Hike" discount code: "ipooped"

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Interview with Dan Durston:

• Durstongear.com
• @Durstongear on Instagram
• Dan Durston Youtube
• Motorscooterguide.net

00:03:16 - QOTD: What's an "oh shit" moment where you've realized you've been doing something the wrong way for years?

00:07:18 - Intro to Dan Durston

00:07:26 - What is your backpacking resume?

00:09:54 - Do you have to push gear by setting FKTs?

00:10:32 - Do you own the gear company? Are you not the sole proprietor of Dan Durston Gear?

00:12:09 - Do you get a royalty of every product sold?

00:12:59 - Did you also hike the PCT with your wife?

00:13:24 - How did you get into backpacking?

00:14:40 - You were determined to get your pack weight down before your first trip?

00:14:56 - How light was your pack when you first started?

00:16:38 - Did seeing someone do a whole 50-mile trail in a day create the origin for you going ultralight?

00:17:47 - When did the shift to ultralight happen? Was Backpacking Light involved in that?

00:18:40 - What were your big 3 when you were at 5 pounds?

00:20:00 - Were you giving gear companies feedback when you were testing products?

00:21:25 - To become a gear tester do you just go on backpacking forums and be loud?

00:21:44 - What did you bring on the PCT?