Live Ultralight Podcast | Backpacking, Travel, and Adventure

Episode

• EP 207: It's Been TWELVE Years...What's Next? 15.06.2026 31mnt

  In this solo episode of the Live Ultralight Podcast, Tayson marks the 12th anniversary of Outdoor Vitals by detailing the brand's evolution from a college startup to a successful creator of performance-first ultralight backpacking gear. This discussion serves as a comprehensive update for the hiking community on company growth, technical product development, and the future of remote wilderness equipment. Key Topics Covered: The Transition to Performance-First Ultralight: An analysis of how the brand shifted its mission from "Opening the Outdoors" via affordable entry-level gear to developing high-performance equipment specifically for remote wilderness and high-mountain environments. Expansion of Women's Specific Gear: Details on the strategic hire of a second designer to focus on refining and expanding the women's technical apparel and gear lines. Product Innovation Pipeline: A preview of upcoming limited edition innovation drops for late fall 2026 and a development update on the highly anticipated CIRC two-person tent. Inventory & Logistics Strategy: Insights into how the company has significantly increased inventory levels to reduce stockouts on popular items like the Mountain Pursuit line and Shadowlight backpacks. Founders Day Sale Details: Information on the biggest sale this summer plus a GIVEAWAY announcement.  Episode Chapters: 0:00 – 12th Anniversary Reflection and Opening  1:11 – Company Origins: From College Idea to Direct-to-Consumer Model 3:15 – Evolving Gear Philosophy: Focusing on Backcountry Performance 5:34 – Internal Milestones: Approaching 10-Year Employee Anniversaries 6:41 – The OV 100-Mile Challenge: Impact of the DIY Backpacking Program 9:13 – Product Retrospective: Mountain Pursuit, Backpacks, and Zulu Down 12:27 – Long-Term Growth: The Power of Sticking to a Single Vision 16:52 – Design Philosophy: Why We Build for High-Mountain Wilderness 21:17 – Strategic Hires: Expanding Capabilities in the Women's Gear Category 24:03 – Content Strategy: Renewed Focus on On-Trail Video and Education 25:24 – 2026 Sneak Peek: Late-Year Releases and Innovation Drops 28:22 – Development Roadmap: CIRC 2-Person Tent Status 29:34 – Founder's Day Sale: Black Friday Savings in June Gear Mentioned in This Episode: Shadowlight Backpack: https://bit.ly/4opNN7x Carbon Evo Backpack: https://bit.ly/4xnnB1n Altura Pants: https://bit.ly/4gf6Cbw Vantage Alpine Jacket: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/vantage-alpine-down-jacket?_pos=1&_psq=vantage&_ss=e&_v=1.0&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=link Pursuit Hoodie: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/pursuit-hybrid-fleece?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=link Zulu Down Jacket: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/zulu-down-jacket?_pos=1&_psq=zulu&_ss=e&_v=1.0&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=link Circ 1-Person Tent: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/cirq-trekking-pole-tent?_pos=1&_psq=cirq&_ss=e&_v=1.0&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=link  
• EP 206: 3 Days in Coyote Gulch + Footwear Experiment 01.06.2026 44mnt

  Are you planning a bucket-list trip to Coyote Gulch, Utah? In this episode, the team breaks down everything you need to know for a successful backpacking adventure in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. We dive deep into the ultimate footwear debate: Can you really backpack 25+ miles in sandals, or are trail runners the only way to go? What you'll learn in this video: Logistics & Permits: Why you don't need a permit but MUST bring wag bags. The Approach: How to navigate the brutal Hole in the Rock Road to reach the Hurricane Wash trailhead. Iconic Landmarks: Detailed looks at Jacob Hamlin Arch, Coyote Natural Land Bridge, and Steven's Arch. Gear Testing: Real-world results of using Leukotape for blisters in wet environments and the pros/cons of cotton vs. polyester sun hoodies. Canyon Safety: Why you should always check water depth before cliff jumping and how to handle desert "critters" like scorpions and spiders. Whether you're a seasoned ultralight backpacker or planning your first desert trek near Escalante, these insights will help you avoid painful blisters and maximize your time in one of Utah's most beautiful canyons.   Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi
• EP 205: Ask OV 11: Backpacking Gear Questions - Filters, Frames & Comfort Camping 26.05.2026 30mnt

  What's the difference between a backpacking water filter and a purifier? Why do we keep coming back to the Platypus QuickDraw? And how do you make shorter backpacking trips more comfortable without overpacking? In this Ask OV episode of the Live Ultralight Podcast, we answer listener questions about backpacking water filters, carbon fiber framed backpacks, comfort camping, and why Outdoor Vitals often prioritizes hooded jackets first. We cover practical trail-tested tips for keeping filters flowing fast, choosing the right backpack frame stiffness, and adding small luxuries like chairs, hammocks, games, tarps, and better camp food without losing the benefits of an ultralight setup. Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi Carbon Evo 50 Backpack: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/cs40-ultralight-backpack?_pos=1&_psq=cs40&_ss=e&_v=1.0&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=link Platypus Quickdraw (Live Ultralight Membership required): https://outdoorvitals.com/products/platypus-quickdraw-1l-microfilter-system?_pos=2&_psq=platypus&_ss=e&_v=1.0&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=link #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 204: Ask OV 10 - Why Go Ultralight (Even WITHOUT Big Miles On Trail) 24.04.2026 32mnt

  In this session of "Ask OV", Tayson and Brigham share some insider info that you aren't going to want to miss! Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi  #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 203 - The Difference Shoes ACTUALLY Make On The Trail 03.04.2026 54mnt

  Join Tayson & Tyler as they go into the difference switching from one trail shoe to another can ACTUALLY make... Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 202 - How To Know If You're Ready For a 20 Mile Day 13.03.2026 1j

  Join Tayson & Tyler as they go into how to know if you're ready to hike 20 miles in a day, & what all the resources are that will help you get there. OV 100 Mile Challenge 2026 Registration: https://bit.ly/4rv0EFw Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe:  https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 201 - Cirq Trekking Pole Tent: Product Deep Dive 11.03.2026 1j 28mnt

  Join Tayson & Brigham for an in-depth look at the features, function, & design of the new Cirq Trekking Pole Tent. This 1p tent is more spacious, more ventilated, & easier to pitch. Watch this episode to learn why! Cirq Trekking Pole Tent (launching Mar 23, 2026) Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe:  https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight  Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 200 - Carbon Evo 50 Backpack Product Deep Dive 18.02.2026 59mnt

  Join Tayson & Brigham for an in-depth look at the features, function, & design of the Carbon Evo 50 Backpack. This is one of our lightest and most comfortable backpacks! Carbon Evo 50 Backpack (launching Feb 23, 2026): https://bit.ly/4aSHdkN Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi    #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 199: Zulu Down Jacket - Product Deep Dive 02.02.2026 45mnt

  Join Tayson & Brigham for an in-depth look at the features, function, & design of the Zulu Down jacket. This is our LIGHTEST down jacket yet... Zulu Down Jacket: https://bit.ly/4baLPn6 Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 198: Ask OV 9 - Ultralight For Performance, Not To Chase A Number... 19.01.2026 32mnt

  In this session of "Ask OV", Tayson and Brigham share some insider info that you aren't going to want to miss! Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight  Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 197: Ask OV 8 - Insider Edition: What's Stocking Out & What's HOT 12.11.2025 38mnt

  In this session of "Ask OV", Tayson and Brigham share some insider info that you aren't going to want to miss! Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 196: Ask OV 7 - How Warm Puffy Jackets REALLY Are... 17.10.2025 36mnt

  In this session of "Ask OV", Tayson and Brigham talk about our BRAND NEW Vantage Alpine Down Jacket & compare it to other jackets. Get answers on how to look at jacket warmth levels in general, what backpack capacity you really need, & more. Listen to find out more! Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 195: Vantage Alpine Down Jacket - Product Deep Dive 30.09.2025 58mnt

  Join Tayson & Brigham for an in-depth look at the features, function, & design of the Vantage Alpine Down Jacket. This is our WARMEST jacket yet & weighs less than 16 oz... Vantage Alpine Down Jacket: https://bit.ly/3IEDwE3 Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight  Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 194: NEW Shadowlight Carbon 60 Backpack - Product Deep Dive 15.09.2025 59mnt

  Our lead product designer and our founder discuss the design of our latest backpack & all the unique features, functions, & upgrades it come with! Shadowlight Carbon 60 Backpack: https://bit.ly/4p8zLal Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 193: Hiking 140 Miles in 6 Days Part 2 - Craig Obrist on the Colorado Trail 02.09.2025 1j 1mnt

  Join Tayson and special guest Craig Obrist as they share stories from our recent 140 mile hike on a section of the Colorado Trail! Craig had to get off trail partway through - learn why. Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 192: Hiking 140 Miles In 5.5 Days - FULL STORY 27.08.2025 2j 4mnt

  SPOILER: Not all who started with us on the trip finished... This year we hiked our 2nd section of the Colorado Trail covering about 140 miles and climbing over 22,000 feet in elevation over 6 days. To top it off, we brought a new face that had NEVER backpacked any distance like this before... Find out what happened & what lessons we learned along the way! Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 191: Ask OV 6 - Answers About New Gear + Discontinuing Old Favorites 20.08.2025 31mnt

  In this episode of "Ask OV", Tayson and Brigham talk about our BRAND NEW Mountain Pursuit apparel line that was just launched on presale, and also answer questions about why we no longer use insulations like LoftTek. Listen to find out more! Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
• EP 190 - Pursuit Hybrid Fleece: Designer's Overview 11.08.2025 1j 1mnt

  Join Tayson & Brigham as they share all kinds of insights about the design, features, & function of the Pursuit Hybrid Fleece. Pursuit Hybrid Fleece: https://bit.ly/4mDr5H8   Have questions for us? Write them in to support@outdoorvitals.com!  #outdoorvitals #OV100
• EP 189: Altura Dynamic Pants Designer's Overview 11.08.2025 1j 1mnt

  Join Tayson & Brigham as they share all kinds of insights about the design, features, & function of the Altura Dynamic Pants. Altura Dynamic Pants: https://bit.ly/45eCFCJ   Have questions for us? Write them in to support@outdoorvitals.com! #outdoorvitals #OV100
• EP 188: Ask OV 5: Upcoming 100 Miler, Shoes, Socks & Sleep Gear 03.07.2025 45mnt

  In this episode of "Ask OV", Tayson and Brigham talk about their up and coming 135 mile hike on the Colorado Trail for the OV100 Mile Challenge and field questions from followers about shoes, socks and clothes to sleep in! Join us for actionable, field tested feedback on how to stay comfortable on your feet for 100 miles! Have questions for us? Write them in to support@outdoorvitals.com! #outdoorvitals #OV100