Ryan Jordan

Feb 11, 2025 | backpackinglight.com | Ryan Jordan |Gear Guides

IntroductionMy first experience with traction devices was back in the 1980s while backpacking in Olympic National Park. Back then, traction spikes as we know them today didn’t exist. We relied on mountaineering crampons, which were necessary for the steep off-trail terrain we often traversed to reach technical mountaineering routes. Walking in crampons on non-technical trails was cumbersome, but they were the only option.

Jan 30, 2025 | backpackinglight.com | Ryan Jordan

IntroductionI suffer with Starbucks Via single-use packets for most of my backpacking trips. I don’t not like Via – its compact, single-use form factor and flavor that’s sort of good enough make it an appealing option for somebody who enjoys the ritual of brewing a cup of coffee. And it’s generally absent of the organic chemical-like defects that plague other (cheaper) freeze-dried brands. However, I’m always on the lookout for something with richer flavor, smoother body, and a fresher mouth-feel.

Jan 6, 2025 | backpackinglight.com | Ryan Jordan

About this story: This is a narrative photo essay about a fall trek in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado. It includes a few dozen photographs, a narrative account of the trip, and field and gear notes about our route and equipment choices. I leaned back in my backpacking chair and for the first time in 96 hours, felt relief instead of anxiety. We were at the tail end of our route, with the only remaining puzzle piece an unknown bushwhack.

Dec 5, 2024 | backpackinglight.com | Backpacking Light |Steven Hatcher |Ryan Jordan |Gear Guides

by STEVEN HATCHER and RYAN JORDANIntroductionIn this guide, we’ll explore the primary categories of footwear for backpacking and hiking, including minimalist footwear, examining their unique benefits, limitations, and use cases. From minimalist hiking sandals to rugged mountain boots, we’ll dive into the design features and performance benefits that define each type, as well as the nuances of construction.

Nov 24, 2024 | backpackinglight.com | Ryan Jordan

IntroductionComparing the performance of handheld flashlights and headlamps objectively is challenging because there are so many design attributes that contribute to lighting performance. Not only are we concerned about brightness, efficiency, weight, and battery life (easily measurable attributes), but we also care about ergonomics, aesthetic design, beam quality, and ease of use.