“There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.” -Sir Rannulph Fiennes

When it comes to gear lists, there is such a hype about ultralight these days. Theoretically yes, less is better, lighter means you can travel further and higher, are more comfortable during the day, can hike longer, you have less chance for injuries, etc. But like in many things, human tends to put a certain competition when there shouldn't be any. Now someone that carries less weight is often perceived as more experience than someone else that might carry slightly more. That contest (I'm lighter than you!) brought a couple of issues.
  1. What we call stupid light, this is basically putting greater attention to your weight than your security and making foolish (even stupid) choices that might cost you a lot (like your life) just to save a few ounces or pounds.
  2. The second is that nowadays, people spend so much time researching about the lightest gear, that they don't spend nearly enough time learning outdoor skills. No matter how light your gear is, you can be taken away by a creek if you don't know how to cross it properly, or injuring yourself scrambling.​​​
While finding the right gear for you, be careful not to fall into these traps of ultralight.
The following gear list is oriented first towards durability and versatility before weight. If you are looking for an ultralight gear list, do visit other blogs. In my experience, I found that it is worth carrying a few extra pounds for having gear you can count on and that will perform well no matter the conditions thrown at you. The following is what works for me. It might be too little for some, or too heavy and too much for others. In the end, it is a question of preference. Keep it light, but bring on the trail what will keep you safe and make you happy. 

Backpack

Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest
When my last backpack (a Golite Jam) gave up on life, I was in for a treat; a new backpack! I was looking for; a roll-top 50-60 litres backpack (roll top provides the versatility to transform your backpack size on the go), I wanted a decent frame (for those heavier carrying days), something without all the bells and whistles, made  to be used hard, and that stays relatively light (2-3 lbs). The HMG 3400 checked all those boxes, I have yet to regret my choice.

What I like

  • Narrow shape, great for scrambling and bushwalking.
  • Durability-wise, I am impressed.
  • Nearly waterproof.

What can be improved

  • If you overstuff the backpack, it tends to barrel up.
  • Somehow the way the belt is stitched create pressure points.
  • The price (about 50% more expensive than the competition).

Weight: 33.6 oz

Shelter
For many years, I have used a square silnylon tarp. I loved the versatility of a tarp pitch, but my issues were the lack of protection for nights above tree lines and privacy in campgrounds. That's why I opted for a 4 sided shelter.

What I like

  • Storm worthiness is above average even with the vertical sides.
  • Easier to get in Canada (not anymore, it is discontinued).
  • The fly alone is big enough for two.
  • Uses the hiking poles for the set-up (a must nowadays).

What can be improved

  • A more ninja-like colour would have been nice (I guess I will love the red colour in case of emergency).
  • Using the bug net reduces dramatically space and user-friendliness.
  • Overall it is a decent shelter, but I will buy a Duomid next. Duomids are lighter and have better storm worthiness.

Weight (fly only):  22 oz
Weight (all) : 37 oz

Sierra Design High Route 1

Sleeping Bag

Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt -12c (10F)
It took me a while to make the switch to a quilt. I am an active sleeper and was worried to constantly getting wake up because of losing the quilt and getting cold. That fear was just in my head, in reality, I sleep better with a quilt. I have finally more space to move around. Now I wonder why it took me so long to make the switch.

What I like

  • U-shaped continuous baffles keeps the down in place.
  • ​Nicely designed pad attachments.
  • It opens up completely into a blanket (nice for hot nights, sleeping two, and easier to dry).
  • You can choose your own colour (like a dark one for quick drying and a flashy one in case of emergency).
  • Lighter and cheaper than sleeping bags.
  • Downtek (water resistant down).

What can be improved

  • The drawstring around the neck is right in the middle, so it gets in your face once in a while. 
  • Even if they use a responsible down, it is still an animal product, and I am an animal lover.

Weight: 26.8 oz

Sleeping Pad
The most popular sleeping pad, for good reasons.

What I like

  • The weight obviously (8 oz for a small, it is hard to beat).
  • The pack size (fits in a pants pocket).
  • Comfortable and warmth (especially for side sleepers).
  • Perfect shape to provide insolation for the floor of a packraft.

What can be improved

  • ​Even if the NeoAir showed me its sturdiness over and over, I seem to never trust it completely (like I used to with my Prolite).
  • The noise! Even the newest generation (supposedly quieter) feels like you are sleeping on a dozen bags of chips.
  • Sometimes, I have a hard time staying all night on the pad. (Maybe I should sleep with a restraining vest or tape myself to it.)

Weight (S): 8 oz

Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xlite (small)

Hiking Pants

Prana Stretch Zion
I have had many hiking pants in my life, these are definitely my favourite. It comes with a designed belt. Always useful to adjust those few pounds gained enjoying delicious food while travelling and the one lost trekking into wild places.

What I Like

  • Great for hiking (not too breezy, not too hot).
  • Super stretchy and durable (designed as rock climbing pants).
  • Very comfy.
  • Looks classy (good for all sorts of events).
  • You don't have to unbuckle the belt to open the pants.

What can be improved

  • Sometimes a leg hair gets caught in the material. (Ouch!) 
  • The provided belt loses up if you carry a heavy backpack.

Weight: 13.8 oz

Shirt
A great shirt that made its name through time, I found long sleeves to be more versatile.

What I like

  • 1/4 zip is great for ventilating.
  • Thumps loops.
  • Sleeve stays when pulled up.
  • Nice fit.
  • Dries quick.

What can be improved

  • I would add a little spandex to the material blend to make it a tiny bit stretchier.
  • The shirt could run a little longer since it tends to run up while wearing a backpack.

Weight: 7.5 oz

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Zip-Neck

Mid Layer

North face TKA 100 
This has been my go-to layer for years. Having no pockets doesn't bother me, I always use my pants pockets for everything. If you run cold, look for a 200 or any mid-weight fleece.

What I like

  • Simple and easy to wash.
  • Cheap.
  • Durable (perfect material to have your backpack rubbing against).
  • Dries super fast.

What could be improved

  • Nothing.

Weight (L): 10.7 oz 

Warm Layer
I still use my old Golite down jacket, it hasn't given up yet. Golite bankrupted awhile back, so if you are in the market for a new jacket take a look at Montbell. They are a very good company and will be my next.

What I like

  • Downtek (water resistant down).
  • The hand pockets have a discreet zipper.
  • Super warm (over 5 oz filled with 850 down).

What can be improved

  • Heavy (you can easily find a sub 10 oz down jacket these days).
  • Even if they use a responsible down, it is still an animal product, and I am an animal lover. 

Weight: 15.2 oz

Golite Bitterroot Down Jacket

Rain Jacket

Montbell Storm Cruiser Jacket
This is the ninth version of this jacket (it shows how popular it is). I prefer this jacket over the lighter alternative (sub 7 oz) for its durability, 3 layer fabric, and pit zip.

What I like

  • They use the "K-Mono Cut" which reduces seams.
  • Very good waterproofness. (I hope so, it is a rain jacket!)
  • The breathability is more than decent.
  • Full-featured (with pocket and pit zip).
  • Weight (at 10 oz it an impressive weight for a full-featured 20d, 3 Layers material).
  • Cheap (compared to other top quality jackets).

What could be improved

  • Hmmm (I am still trying to find something).

Weight: 10 oz

Rain Pants
When it comes to rain pants, I do need new ones! But the one I have never seems to retire. It has been over 5 years now, and they just have tiny holes close to the ankle.

What I like

  • Ankle zips.
  • Breaths well (thanks to the eVent).
  • Tough (unfortunately, when you want to upgrade).

What can be improved

  • Nowadays, there are much better options out there.
  • Heavy (11 oz).
  • Bulky.

Weight: 11 oz

REI eVent Pants 

Footwear

La Sportiva Bushido II
Trail runners are one of the most versatile footwear; it breathes, it grips, it dries quickly. You can hike, run, scramble with a freedom of movement that boots will never be able to give you.

What I like

  • Durability (some of my pairs have lasted over 1500 km).
  • Traction is very good.
  • I like the stiffness of the shoe (sadly it goes away with time).
  • Good support.
  • Tight and precise footing.

What can be improved

  • I would love it if they would come with velcro on the heel, like the Altra Lone Peak series. (So I don't have to install one for my gaiters.)
  • A plain dark version would be nice. (It seems like trail runners always come in flashy colours.)

Weight: 23.3 oz

Insoles
I personally use the blue version because I have flat feet, but I have heard even better things about the green version. Keep in mind you might need to go half a size bigger with your shoes these insoles are pretty thick.

What I like

  • I love how it supports the arch of my foot.
  • It reduces stress on my feet on long hiking days.

What can be improved

  • They are expensive. 

Weight: 3.5 oz

Superfeet insoles Blue

Gaiters

Outdoor Research Spark Plug
I have hiked for many years without gaiters, I never really saw their necessity outside of winter conditions. That was until I gave these a try and I am glad I did. Now I almost feel naked without them. 

What I like

  • Does its job well at keeping rocks and debris from entering the shoes.
  • Very light and dries quickly.
  • Also, it reduces the amount of time you tie your shoes.

What can be improved

  • You need to fix a velcro at the back of your trail runner.
  • The hook in the front is not long enough to stay in place.

Weight: 1.3 oz 

Socks
Nothing feels as comfy as merino wool when it comes to socks. But countless times I have gone through a pair because they lack in durability. That was until I came across Darn Tough socks. With their special material blend (merino wool, nylon, and lycra), I can have the pros of merino wool socks, without the cons.

What I like

  • Their legendary durability (you will get tired of the colour before they wear out).
  • Lifetime warranty. (Most shops that stock Darn Tough will exchange them for free if yours are worn out. The best? No receipt needed!)
  • All the pros of merino wool without its fragility.

What can be improved

  • After thousands of kilometres, the material turns stiffer (I am sure any brand would get there if they would last that long).

Weight: 2.2 oz

Darn Tough Micro-crew light cushion

Headwear

Outdoor Research Visor
I never was a hat kinda guy, so visor just fits me well. For maximum protection, I use a Buff to protect my neck.

What I like

  • It can fold in half to fit in a pocket.
  • You can adjust the back (elastic always stretches with time).
  • Snug fit (it won't fly away).

What can be improved

  • Your hair can look quite messy, but I guess that more a hair issue than the visor. It seems like I need a hair cut and I don't have anything bad to say.

Weight: 1.7 oz

Toque
One of the only pieces of gear that followed me through my different gear changes over the years.

That I like

  • Simple and light.
  • Doubled with fleece in the ear area.

What can be improved

  • Discontinued (I know it is not really something that can be improved, but when you love that toque the way I do, it is).

Weight: 2.6 oz

Golite Merino Toque

Gloves

North Face Apex
I am still using these gloves, even if I find them to be below average. If you shop for gloves, try something else, because you will most likely be disappointed by them.

What I like

  • Durability (another piece of gear that doesn't want to retire, soon I will cheat and put the scissors into them).

What can be improved

  • Had to cut the liner off, it was annoyingly always getting stuck.
  • They don't protect from water, cold, and barely from the wind. (Why I am still carrying them again? Oh right, to wear them out.)

Weight: 2.9 oz

Neckwear
I always have with me a Buff on every adventure. The weight of this piece of gear is very minimal for its outstanding versatility.

What I like

  • Enough designs and colours to fit every personality.
  • Great protection against the sun, the wind, and the cold.
  • Very versatile (can be used as headwear, neckwear, etc.)

What can be improved

  • Nothing.

Weight: 2 oz

Merino Wool Buff

Underwear

Saxx Quest 2.0
ExOfficio used to be my go-to underwear, but that was until I tried the Saxx undies. Since then, I have a hard time wearing out my last ExOfficio pair since I always have Saxx underwear on.

What I Like

  • Their ballpark pouch does a great job at keeping everything in place.
  • Waist elastic don't loosen up too much with time.
  • Snug fit.
  • They look good (who's gonna see them anyway, right?)

What can be improved

  • It is a slight step down in durability compared to ExOfficio.

Weight: 2.4 oz

Sleeping shirt
Having a sleeping shirt prevents sweat and body oil to lower the efficiency of your sleeping bag. It provides you with an extra layer in case of an emergency or a spare shirt if your main one gets destroyed. My sleeping shirt is the same as my hiking shirt, so I will try not to repeat myself.

What I like

  • 1/4 zip is great for adjusting the body temperature when sleeping.

What can be improved

  • The shirt could run longer and be a little stretchier.

Weight: 7.5 oz

Patagonia Capilene Zip-Neck

Sleeping Bottom

Hello Hansen Lifa Base Layer
This is the first pair of base layers I have own, and it is still going strong. When it gives up on life, I will most likely head towards Patagonia Capilene bottom (I know you are tired of hearing about Patagonia Capilene, but I fell for them... True Love!)

What I like

  • The snug fit.
  • Durability. (They only have 2-3 holes after a decade of use (ok, maybe 5-6 holes).

What can be improved

  • With the snug fit comes the difficulty to put them on if you are even the slightest wet or sweaty.

Weight: 4.6 oz

Sleeping Socks
This has been my go-to sleeping socks, their fluffiness makes them a treat when you get in camp.

What I like

  • Warm.
  • Lighter than wool.
  • Loose fit (Allows better blood circulation which helps your feet to recover quicker).
  • Cheap.

What can be improved

  • Mediocre durability if used for walking (if only used for sleeping, they last forever).

Weight: 4 oz 

T-Max Heat

Water Filter

Sawyer Squeeze
This is a great filter, it can be used directly on a water bottle (when you feel lazy), and connects directly to your bladder (if you like using them). 

What I like

  • Good flow (compared to his little brother, the Sawyer mini).
  • Does its job well. (I have yet to get sick using this filter.)
  • Its lifespan, sawyer claims it can filter 1 million gallons. (That's 2L a day for 1370 years!)
  • No need to change the filter​.

What can be improved

  • Sometimes the filter has to be backwashed to remove clogs (to be expected with tiny filters).
  • The collapsible bottle that comes with, have to be handled with care (don't be frustrated while using them).

Weight: 2.6 oz

Waterbottle
Platypus soft bottles and Smartwater are famous among backpackers, you save nearly 5 oz per bottle compared with Nalgene. I usually carry two Smartwater as water bottles, and one Platypus for extra capacity and as my dirty water bag for my filter (the one that comes with the filter is not very durable).

What I Like

  • The opening fits with my filter.
  • The slim shape of Smartwater makes the bottle easier to take in and out of the side pockets while in motion.
  • Truly closes (not like those bottles that if you tighten them too much they loosen back, I hate that, don't you?).
  • BPA free.
  • Much lighter than Nalgene.

What Could Be Improved

  • Both stand on themselves, but not as easily as a wide hardshell water bottle.
  • Platypus leaks a tiny bit when used with my filter.

Weight: 1.4 oz

Platypus 2L soft bottle and Smartwater 1L

Electronics

Anker Powercore II 10000

A very good battery pack, it has fast charging, for your device and the battery itself. It can charge roughly 3 times my smartphone. LED indicates how much juice it still has. In my opinion, Anker does the best external batteries.

Weight: 6.7 oz

Smartphone

I use my smartphone for everything; pictures, books, emails, banking, mapping, writing, researching, listening to music, etc. I personally use Apple's iPhones, but this is simply my preference. (Let's not start the never-ending fight Samsung vs Apple.)

Weight: 6 oz

Lifeproof Case

Lifeproof holds its name well. It is waterproof, dustproof, snow proof, shock resistant, and has a full-screen cover. I have used those cases for a long time now. The only downside I have experienced is in order to be fully waterproof they have to cover the camera lens, which reduces the picture quality.

Weight: 1.4 oz

Garmin InReach Mini

Great little device to keep the family happy, it allows two-way communication, weather forecasts on the fly, location sharing, connects with your phone via Bluetooth (for easier texting), plenty of battery life, waterproof, different subscription categories to fit any adventures, weighs almost nothing for the peace of mind it provides. Any cons? Only the steep price!

Weight: 3.5 oz

Cables

iPhone lightning cable (to connect with my external battery), headlamp cable (in case I run out of juice).

Weight: 1.1 oz

Fenix HM50R Headlamp

This little guy has 500 lumens. It is very powerful for its size, it lasts up to 90h on the very low setting (enough for reading), totally waterproof and dust-proof (IP68). USB rechargeable so it works with the power bank above and actually uses the same cable. (Great, one less cable to carry.) Heavy compared to ultralight options, but if you end up trekking at night, you will be happy to have this one.

Weight: 2.7 oz

Skullcandy Earbuds

These headphones are small, cheap, with pretty decent sound quality. I love the noise cancelling on these things, it is great when you need a break from the outside world. 

Weight: 0.4 oz

Misc

Victorinox Classic

Small but has everything I need. I have never come across a moment that I wished I had a bigger knife.

Weight: 0.7 oz

Light My Fire 2.0 Fire Starter

I usually carry with me a Bic lighter rolled in plastic wrap. But this one works when it's very cold, and even when wet, something that a Bic can't compete with.

Weight: 0.9 oz

Suunto M-3G

With a global needle, you can use this compass in both hemispheres. I found it to be faster at pointing north and works even if it is in an incline. It is pretty expensive, but totally worth it (whether you get lost on purpose or not).

Weight: 1.6 oz

Topo Map

I often carry topo maps, except when hiking in places I already know or when the navigation is too easy. That being said, I always recommend carrying one, even if I don't always follow my own advice (shame on me). A detailed one for navigation (1/50k) and/or a less detailed one for safety (1/250k). 

Weight: 0.2 oz (per page)

Sea to Summit Bug Net

Bug repellents are heavy and have to be refilled. A head net is the best way to keep your sanity in buggy places. The best? It weighs less than an ounce! The bad? You need some sort of hat for it to really work.

Weight: 0.9 oz

Gear Depending on the Trip

Alpacka Packraft with a spray skirt

Packrafts are just awesome, they pack down the size of a 2-person tent. They are very durable, even after rubbing against many rocks and even branches, I still haven't poked mine. They can be checked as luggage on a plane or a bus (good luck with traditional kayaks). They deflated and fit in your trunk (no more worries about losing your kayak from the roof rack, while driving). They are more stable than kayaks and canoes. You can use them on oceans, rivers, lakes, the possibilities are endless.

The biggest downside? The price tag... it is the most expensive piece of gear I have ever owned. As well, when it is very windy, it caught the wind pretty bad. So much that sometimes, you will be paddling hard and barely making any progress.

Weight: 115 oz

Werner Tybee FG Paddle

Cheap and tough, this paddle breaks into 4 pieces that make it a lot easier to store in your backpack (and helps you keep your sanity when you are bushwalking). There are definitely lighter options out there.

Weight: 39.7 oz

PFD Astral V-Eight

I love that the back is just mesh, makes the PFD lighter, more breathable, and allows better freedom of movement. I carry that life jacket only when most of my trip is on a river. When the trip is shared with lots of hiking, I used three 2l soft bottles (empty and filled with air) as buoyancy devices tied to my body. (It works surprisingly well.)

Weight: 19.5 oz

Inner Shelter

I use the inner of my shelter only in bug season. Outside of that, I only carry an old tent floor as a ground sheet.

Weight: 12.6 oz

Ursack Major XL

The weight itself is making this bag worth buying over a bear canister (saving over 2 lbs). It is a more packing friendly (the space it takes is petty much in relation to what is in, compared to the canister that takes lots of space no matter what). A few people have related having critters making their way into the bag by the tiny closure hole, I have yet to experience that. Most national parks allow the use of a Ursack instead of a bear canister, I have only heard of Yosemite (USA) and Tombstone (Yukon) that don't allow it.

Weight: 7.8 oz

Bear Spray

Studies have proven bear spray to be more effective than guns to repel a bear attack. I know it is a debatable subject, but since this option doesn't wound the bear, it is the best for me (I am a Nature lover what can I say). As well nearly all national parks don't allow firearms  (+2 for bear spray).

Weight: 7.9 oz

Recap

Packing (37.8 oz)

  • Backpack - HMG Southwest 3400 (33.6 oz)
  • Backpack liner - Trash bag (2 oz)
  • 4-5 groceries plastic bags - For garbage, organizing, or quick waterproofing (1 oz)
  • 4 ziplock bag - One for electronics, one for toilet paper, one for repair and aid kit, and one for maps (1 oz)
  • A bunch of elastic - For food, ziplock bags, charging cables, etc (0.2 oz)

Sleeping (78.2 oz)

  • Shelter - Sierra Design High Route Fly + stakes and guylines (24.3 oz)
  • Ground Sheet - Old Tent Floor (3 oz)
  • Quilt - EE Revelation -12c/10F (26.8 oz)
  • Sleeping pad - NeoAir Xlite small (8 oz)
  • Sleeping socks - T-Max heat socks (4 oz)
  • Sleeping top - Pantagonia Capilene Mid-weight (7.5 oz)
  • Sleeping bottom - HH Lifa (4.6 oz)

Packed Clothes (56.6oz)

  • Mid Layer - North Face Fleece TKA 100 (10.7 oz)
  • Down jacket - Golite bitterroot (15.2 oz)
  • Extra Sock - Darn Tough Light (2.2 oz)
  • Rain Jacket - Montbell Storm Cruiser (10 oz)
  • Rain pants - REI eVent pants (11 oz)
  • Neckwear - Merino Buff (2 oz)
  • Toque - Golite merino toque (2.6 oz)
  • Gloves - North Face Apex (2.9 oz)

Worn (72.9 oz)

  • Shirt - Pantagonia Capilene Mid-weight (7.5 oz)
  • Pants - Prana Strech Zion (13.8 oz)
  • Headwear - Outdoor Research Visor (1.7 oz)
  • Underwear - Saxx Quest 2.0 (2.4 oz)
  • Socks - Darn Tough light (2.2 oz)
  • Footwear - La Sportiva Bushido (23.3 oz)
  • Gaiter - Outdoor Research Spark Plug (1.3 oz)
  • Hiking Poles - Black Diamond Alpine (20.7 oz)

Toiletries (4 oz)

  • Toothbrush - Simple travel size (0.3 oz)
  • Toothpaste - Travel size (0.3 oz)
  • Lip Balm - Sundance (with some SPF) (0.5 oz)
  • Dental floss - Travel size 50m (0.4 oz)
  • Q-tips - A few rolled in plastic wrap (0.2 oz)
  • Hand Sanitizer - Purell small bottle  (1 oz)
  • Toilet paper - 8 square/day (0.1 oz/day)
  • Baby swipes - For those nights without running water (0.6 oz)

Hydratation (6.5 oz)

  • Water filter - Sawyer Squeeze (2.6 oz)
  • Water bottle - Two Platypus 2L (2.6 oz)
  • Soft bottle for filter - Platypus 2L (1.3 oz) 

Electronics (21.8 oz)

  • Smartphone - iPhone X (6 oz)
  • Phone Case - Lifeproof (1.4 oz)
  • External battery - Anker Powercore II 10000 (6.7 oz)
  • Satellite Device - Garmin InReach Mini (3.5 oz)
  • Charging cables - ​iPhone & Headlamp (1.1 oz)
  • Head lamp - Fenix HM50R Headlamp (2.7 oz)
  • Earphone - Skull candy EarPods (0.4 oz)

Repair & Aid kit (1.1 oz)

  • Needles & Thread - 2 needles and a few meters of threads (0.1 oz)
  • 3 Alcohol swipe - Individually sealed (0.2 oz)
  • 3-4 Band-Aids/Second Skin - Different sizes (0.3 oz)
  • Tape - Tenacious tape (0.4 oz)
  • Patch - Therm-a-rest Patch (0.1) 

Misc (5 oz)

  • Compass - Suunto M-3G (1.6 oz)
  • Topo Map - Per pages (0.2 oz)
  • Knife - Victorinox Classic SD (0.7 oz) 
  • Lighter - Bic Classic rolled in plastic wrap (0.7 oz)
  • Fire Starter - Light My Fire 2.0 (0.9 oz)
  • Bug Net - Sea to summit (0.9 oz) 
  • Love for nature - Doesn't weight anything but makes any hikes a lot more enjoyable
  • Desire for adventure - You will need it!

Depends

  • Bank Cards + Money - If your trek needs resupplying on the trail (0.7 oz)
  • Travel Adapter - If your trek is abroad (4.5 oz)
  • Passport ​- If your trek is abroad (1.3 oz)
  • Bear Bag - Ursack Major Xl (7.8 oz) 
  • Bear Spray - Sabre Wild Max (7.9 oz)
  • Packraft - Alpacka Packraft with a spray skirt (115 oz)
  • PFD - PFD Astral V-Eight (19.5 oz)
  • Paddle - Werner Tybee FG Paddle (39.7 oz)​

Base Weight (lbs): 13.2 lbs
Base Weight (kg): 6 kg

Questions & Answers 
Q: Why do you choose inflatable matelas over hard foam?
A: For manny reasons; they tend to be warmer, lighter, more durable (they are more fragile but last longer), they pack smaller, fits better in a Packrafts, you can even have fun with it at the beach or the pool. Yes, you will always worry of poking it, in particular, on a longer expedition (a little repair kit helps). The main reason that did it for me was the comfort, I am a side sleeper and foam pads are simply not thick enough for my hip bone. I would consider foam pads if I can teach myself to be a back sleeper (i'm working on it).
Q: nO deodorant?
A: Are you out in the wild to meet your soulmate? If so, I got to tell you, you might have a better chance in more crowded places. No seriously, I usually wash in a creek during the warmest part of the day (if there is such part). Deodorant has a smell (even the none smelly one), living in a bear country, I don't take chances. Make sure you hike with people that know how you smell when sweaty (or at least people that are too shy to comment).
Q: Only 1 shirt?
A: Yes, if it needs a wash, I usually do it in a creek and wear it back straight after. It dries with my body heat and some sun and hot weather (if I am lucky that day). If it tears, I switch with my sleeping shirt.
Q: Only 1 pair of pants?
A: I personally don't sweat from the legs, do you? My pants usually get dirty on the outside from dust, stain, etc.. In those cases a spot wash is the best, on month-long trips, I might wash my pants a few times. When that happens, I wear my rain pants (in cold weather) while they dry, or I simply put them back on when wet (in hot weather).
Q: How comfy do you sleep with only a small size sleeping pad?
A: Pretty well actually, I use the pad from my shoulders to my knees, my backpack for under my feet, and my extra clothes as a pillow. If you hike for long hours remember to elevate your feet to prevent swelling.
Q: No pillow?
A: That is right! I use my extra clothes and water bladder as a pillow.
Q: No creek crossing footwear?
A: No, trail runners offer better traction and stability while crossing creeks (the worst are crocs and flip-flop). Yes, I get wet but as long as your trail runners are not out of waterproof material they will dry pretty fast. Getting your feet wet is unavoidable, even with expensive 400$ "waterproof" hiking boots, rain, sweat, carelessness all will get water inside your footwear at some point. As well, changing footwear is very time-consuming when you have to cross over a dozen creeks.
Q: Why do you choose synthetic over merino wool for shirts?
A: I used to be a big merino fan, but in my experience; it costs more, it weighs more, takes longer to dry, needs some special care when washing, and doesn't last as long as synthetics (especially the 150). Yes, it has a softer touch and better odour resistance. In my opinion, the cons outweigh the pros and don't justify the price tag. The exception is if you travel in very humid, cold, and rainy places. Then, I do believe wool to be a better choice. That being said, merino wool is still a great choice, it simply comes down to our own preference.
Q: Why are you not using t-shirts?
A: I found long sleeves to be more versatile and to be better protection against the sun and the bugs. I just pull the sleeves up and unzip the neck when I'm warm. 
Q: you don't cook?
A: I do understand that a warm meal provides comfort, especially outside in the wild. I am a raw vegan, so I am used to not cooking anymore, and actually, I enjoy its simplicity. In the past, when I was hiking with a stove, I always found it to be time-consuming.
Q: Isn't it stupid to carry only a small knife in the wood?
A: I understand the feeling of security a big knife provides (and the cool Rambo look). Personally, I think it is overrated. Let me first ask you; why are you carrying a long fixed blade? It makes sense if you are hunting and need to skin what you caught, but outside of that? Survival? Well, good preparation, outdoor skills, fire starter, and compass takes care of that. Protection? Protection against what? A bear? Well, even if I had a samurai sword I am sure I would lose the fight against a bear if it came to it, better making noise and carrying a bear spray. After that, not much is left in the usage of a big knife in the wood, that a small knife cannot take care of. (Except the Rambo look, of course!)
Q: Pain killers?
A: I don't carry them, I think if you need them after your day hike, it is that you simply pushed yourself too far. I like to feel the pain in my leg at the end of the day, not in a masochist way (well...).  
Q: A lighter and a fire starter?
A: Yes, both, I am often too lazy to use a fire starter to light a fire, so I use a regular Bic for that. But Bic lighters can fail, doesn't work well when cold, and doesn't work at all if wet. That is where a fire starter shines (make sure you used some before heading out in the woods, an emergency is not the best situation to start learning how).
Q: Don't you worry about your ankles with shoes?
A: No, I don't. I actually have weak ankles, had many accidents with them (none hiking) and find that wearing trail runners strengthen them, and lower the risk of injury because my feet are lighter so they don't get tired that quickly. As well, on long hikes, no matter how expensive your footwear is, they will get wet. So I found more comfortable trail runners since they dry much quicker and breathe better, which means fewer blisters as well.

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