MLD Superlight Bivy - a further weight reduction

In my attempts to further lighten my hiking load I purchased myself a new Mountain Laurel Designs Superlight Bivy. The new model is designed to fit the Therm-a-rest NeoAir mattress, and should work well with my GoLite Quilt or my home made ones. The Superlight weighs 196g and is made from a combination of momentum DWR and Silnylon, it also has an eVent foot pannel. In terms of options I selected the all net hood, right hand side zipper and coyote colour. Ron has closed MLD over the christmas period so hopefully not too far into the new year I should see it.

*Image from MLD website

ZPacks - Hexamid Solo Tent 259g

If you are a lightweight nut, and who isn't then you will pleased to see some more great gear come out of Joe from ZPacks. The Hexamid is a Solo hiking shelter made from Cuben, full sealed with nanoseeum screen, for a total weight of 259g, now that is amazing.

Some images and a link for you.

Jansport Klamath 55

The latest in the Jansport range, the Klamath 55, arrived in mailbox during the week. You will be able to follow my review of this item at Backpackgeartest.org over the next 3 months.

StickPic - updated version

If you don't own a StickPic, then you really should, these are a great little camera accessory that allows you to take self portraits by attaching your digital camera to the end of your trekking pole. The whole device weights about 10g so is something you would take on every trip without worrying about the weight penalty.
Early in the year I reviewed the origional version and thanks to Rod Java and David Lopez I will have the opportunity to review the latest.
Some inital differences (original on the left, new on the right) are nice and obvious, firstly as you can see the black jam nut has been altered from a standard circular type with a cerated edge to a design that better allows for grip. The through hole on the newer model is also slightly tapered to ensure it stays on the trekking pole more securely, it wedges in a little better. There is also a slight cosmetic difference in that the team now use a machine to engrave "THE STICKPIC" rather than having to hand punch each. Well done again guys, great product.

White Horse Hills CS trip with my son

This week my son Cameron and I went out on a quick hike into White Horse Hills Campsite to fix up a few items we reports on our last visit out there. Here are a few photos.

New Trail for WA

Extract from the Pilgrims Trail Website

"The Pilgrims Trail MissionTo establish a permanent Pilgrims Trail between Subiaco and New Norcia which is respectful of the local environment and cultures, and is safe for those who use it.To establish a Foundation which will monitor the maintenance and development of the Trail for future generations.To foster an awareness of the Pilgrims Trail, and to encourage as many people as possible to experience the benefits and delights of using the trail"