Lightweight or Durable: which is more important?

[Shawn]

When it comes to hiking gear, which is more important?

Lightweight gear or durable gear?

You'll want to say both. That's fair, too. But a lot of times, people sacrifice durability for lighter gear or vice-versa. In many cases, you don't get both.

So, without both being the answer, which is more important to you?

 

[Driftwoody]

I've come across this adage about gear:

Lightweight, durable, inexpensive; pick two (because you can't have all three).

Of course, all three are shades of gray -- with personal priorities (including budget) being decisive factors.

If you're into competitive trail running, highly technical lightweight footwear that might not last an entire season could be the obvious choice.

If you're older or have physical limitations, ultralight gear might be necessary to keep you on the trail.

I turned 68 this year and feeling some arthritis in my right hip, but I voted for durable. With considerable thought given to priority, thorough research of products, and waiting for sales, light weight & durable (though not ultralight) at reasonable prices is possible.

I bought my Granite Gear Blaze 60 backpack several years ago when the older version was on sale. It's over 2 lbs (certainly not ultralight) but is durable and comfortable. I especially like the hipbelt, which tightens by pulling two straps towards the middle. It will carry 40 lbs comfortably (though I rarely exceed 30) and cinches down well for less bulky loads. Without the "brain" (top organizer pack sold separately) it's a large drawcord sack with large front & side stretch pockets. No zippers whatsoever.

I'm willing for my full backpacking kit to exceed by a few lbs what would be considered "ultralight" in order to gain comfort and convenience.

On every trek, think about and remember what bothered you; what you didn't have but would like to; and things you've brought but rarely if ever use (retaining emergency essentials). Choose multiple use items when possible.

Age has slowed me down more than a couple extra lbs in my kit. Long daily miles are far less important now than enjoying nature and scenic highlights.

Pay a little bit more for durable gear that suits you well, and you'll save money in the long run. Durability also reduces the volume of trash that ends up in landfills with our consumer disposable goods habits.

 

[Shawn]

And something also good to note is that as new products get released, companies tend to be trying to make things lighter...

For example, I just bought my first full-suspension mountain bike. It's alloy because I didn't want to pay $1,500 more for carbon but it's said to be the lightest alloy bike on the market. It's very light for an alloy bike!

Another example... I've had my last backpack for around 6 or 7 years. It was worn out. So, I got a new one, same liter amount and features but the new pack is much lighter than the old one. After putting all my stuff from my old pack into the new one, I can really tell a difference in weight.

That's a great thing IMO!