All About Gossamer Gear: Ultralight Backpacking Innovators

When it comes to ultralight backpacking, Gossamer Gear is a name that stands out. Known for their lightweight yet durable packs, shelters, and accessories, Gossamer Gear has been a trailblazer in the ultralight community for over two decades. Whether you’re a seasoned thru-hiker or a beginner looking to lighten your load, Gossamer Gear offers thoughtfully designed products to enhance your outdoor adventures.

In this article, we’ll dive into the story behind Gossamer Gear, explore their standout products, and see what makes them a top choice for ultralight backpackers.

The Story Behind Gossamer Gear

Gossamer Gear was founded in the late 1990s by Glen Van Peski, an ultralight backpacking enthusiast who wanted to create gear that reduced unnecessary weight without sacrificing functionality. What began as a hobby—sewing his own ultralight packs—quickly turned into a full-fledged business as other hikers discovered and admired his innovative designs.

Based in Austin, Texas, Gossamer Gear has remained true to its roots, designing gear that prioritizes simplicity, durability, and efficiency. With the motto "Take Less. Do More.", the company inspires backpackers to embrace a minimalist approach and focus on the trail ahead.

What Sets Gossamer Gear Apart?

1. Lightweight, Durable Design:
   Gossamer Gear products are meticulously crafted to balance ultralight materials with durability, ensuring that their gear can withstand the rigors of long-distance hiking.
2. Innovative Features:
   From removable sit pads integrated into backpacks to shelters with unique ventilation systems, Gossamer Gear products are packed with smart, trail-tested features.
3. Community-Oriented Approach:
   Gossamer Gear actively engages with the backpacking community, refining their designs based on real-world feedback and supporting trail organizations and conservation efforts.
4. Customizable Gear:
   Many Gossamer Gear products offer modular options, allowing hikers to adapt their setup to suit specific trips and conditions.

Signature Gossamer Gear Products

Backpacks:

• The Mariposa 60: A flagship model, this ultralight pack offers a 60L capacity, thoughtfully designed pockets, and a removable internal frame, making it perfect for thru-hikers and weekend adventurers alike.
• The Gorilla 50: A smaller, streamlined pack for ultralight enthusiasts who prioritize simplicity and efficiency.
• The Kumo 36: A frameless pack designed for minimalist hikers and ultralight overnights.

Shelters:

• The One: A lightweight, one-person tent offering excellent protection without adding unnecessary weight.
• The Twinn Tarp: A versatile ultralight tarp for hikers who embrace minimalist camping.

Accessories:

• Thinlight Foam Pad: A multi-use sleeping pad that can double as insulation or a sit pad.
• Shoulder Strap Pockets: Add-on storage for easy access to essentials like snacks, maps, or your phone.

Trekking Poles:

• Gossamer Gear’s trekking poles are ultralight and collapsible, perfect for hikers who rely on poles for stability and shelter setups.

Who Should Choose Gossamer Gear?

Gossamer Gear is ideal for:

• Backpackers who want ultralight gear without sacrificing durability.
• Thru-hikers looking for customizable, high-capacity packs.
• Minimalist hikers who appreciate thoughtful, efficient designs.

While Gossamer Gear products come at a premium price, their exceptional quality and trail-tested reliability make them a worthwhile investment for serious adventurers.

Awards and Recognition

Gossamer Gear has received praise from top outdoor publications like Outside, Backpacker Magazine, and The Trek. Their gear is celebrated for being lightweight, versatile, and thoughtfully designed, making it a favorite among ultralight enthusiasts.

Gossamer Gear’s Commitment to the Outdoors

Gossamer Gear is deeply committed to sustainability and outdoor stewardship. They encourage Leave No Trace practices and support conservation efforts to protect the trails and wild spaces that inspire their designs.

Their dedication to fostering a community of ultralight adventurers extends beyond gear sales, with resources, tips, and stories shared on their website to inspire and educate hikers of all levels.

Where to Buy Gossamer Gear Gear

Gossamer Gear products are available directly through their website and at Garage Grown Gear.

Packing It Out

Gossamer Gear has been a cornerstone of the ultralight backpacking scene, creating innovative, high-quality products that empower hikers to take less and do more. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight pack, a minimalist shelter, or smart accessories to streamline your setup, Gossamer Gear has something for every adventurer.

With a focus on simplicity, functionality, and community, Gossamer Gear isn’t just a brand—it’s a philosophy that inspires backpackers to embrace the beauty of the trail with a lighter load.

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