14 Apr 2026

The Ultimate Budget Ultralight Rain Jacket? 3FULGear First Impressions

by | posted in: OutdoorsDevon |

Finding the perfect balance between weight, price, and performance is the ultimate goal for any backpacker. When it comes to rain gear, that search often leads to a choice between heavy, affordable shells or feather-light jackets that cost a fortune.

Recently, I had the chance to field-test the 3FULGear Ultralight Rain Jacket, a budget-friendly pullover that promises to bridge that gap. After putting it through its paces in some truly demanding conditions, here is why this minimalist piece of gear should be on your radar.

Watch the full field test and review below:

Putting the Specs to the Test

On paper, the 3FULGear jacket hits all the marks for an ultralight enthusiast:

  • Weight: A mere 178g (6.3 oz).
  • Material: Available in 15D or 20D nylon.
  • Breathability: Rated at 14,000 g/m²/24h.
  • Design: A simple, hardware-free pullover that packs down to the size of a soda can.

I took this jacket to New Zealand, where the weather is notoriously unforgiving. During one particular hike, the trail practically transformed into a river. After hours of hiking in a downpour, the results were impressive: the jacket kept me dry. While I noticed some moisture on my back where my pack was pressed against the fabric, the rest of my layers remained remarkably protected.

Standout Features: More Than Just a Shell

While the design is “basic,” there are several thoughtful features that make it highly functional in the backcountry:

1. Massive 14-inch Pit Zips It is incredibly rare to find a budget-friendly, ultralight jacket that includes pit zips. These are essential for venting moisture during high-exertion climbs, allowing you to manage your temperature without having to take the shell off.

2. Innovative Cuff Design One of the most surprising features was the wrist construction. It uses an internal elastic cuff paired with a stiffened, pointed outer cuff. This design allows water to drip off the tip rather than running down your arms or onto your palms, yet it remains flexible enough to slide back easily when you need to check your watch.

3. Oversized “Pullover” Fit The jacket is intentionally oversized. This allows you to easily layer it over a fleece or a puffy jacket. I even found it loose enough to pull over my hip belt, which is a game-changer for preventing your pack’s padding from soaking up water like a sponge. In a pinch, you can even fit a small daypack underneath it.

Final Verdict

The 3FULGear Rain Jacket is a masterclass in “less is more.” By removing zippers and pockets, they’ve created a piece of gear that is light, packable, and highly effective. If you are looking for a high-value rain shell that doesn’t compromise on ventilation, this is a fantastic option for your kit.

Have you tried any gear from 3FULGear, or do you have a favorite budget ultralight setup? Let me know in the YouTube comments If you enjoyed this review, consider subscribing to the OutdoorsDevon YouTube Channel for more gear testing and adventure content.

12 Feb 2026

3FULGear Tutor- A First Look at This 1.4lb Framed Ultralight Pack

by | posted in: OutdoorsDevon |

For many ultralight hikers, the “holy grail” of gear is a backpack that balances weight with structure. Finding a pack that weighs just over a pound but still includes a frame is no easy task.

In my latest video, I take a deep dive into the 2025 redesign of the 3FULGear Tutor. Originally released in 2017 and recently brought back with modern updates, this 35L pack aims to bridge the gap between frameless minimalism and load-bearing comfort.

Watch the full first impressions video here.

Technical Specifications

The Tutor is designed for those who have already dialed in their gear list and are looking for a streamlined, lightweight carry.

  • Weight: ~650g (1.43 lbs) for the medium size.
  • Capacity: Total 35L (25L main compartment, with additional space in the front mesh, side pockets, and hip belt pockets).
  • Materials: * Main Body: 70D Nylon—flexible and lightweight.
    • High-Wear Areas: 210D Grid Nylon with UHMWPE (Dyneema) on the bottom for improved durability against rocks and debris.
  • Support: Internal carbon fiber rods (extremely thin, similar to coat hanger wire) paired with a foam back panel.

Key Features & Field Performance

The Frame System

One of the most surprising elements of this pack is the carbon fiber frame. Despite their thin profile, these rods effectively transfer weight to the hips. While the pack is rated for 25–30 lbs, I’ve found that it performs best when kept under 20 lbs. It handles 25 lbs for short stretches, but for long-distance comfort, staying lightweight is key.

Minimalist Storage

The main compartment is a single “ocean” of space. There is no hydration sleeve, internal key clip, or hose port. This simplicity keeps the weight down but requires a pack liner (like a Nylofume bag) as the material is not waterproof.

The exterior features:

  • Breathable Front Pocket: A fine-weave fabric that allows wet gear to dry while remaining durable against thorns.
  • Side Pockets: Capable of holding two water bottles each, with adjustable elastic tensioners.
  • Roll-Top Closure: Uses snaps rather than velcro or stiffening bars.

The Hip Belt

A standout feature is the pull-forward adjustment system, which allows for better leverage when tightening the pack. The belt also features four adjustment points to better accommodate the natural curve of the hips.

Pros & Cons

What works well:

  • Weight-to-Value: It is incredibly lightweight and inexpensive for a framed pack.
  • Clean Design: Unobtrusive and functional without unnecessary “bells and whistles.”
  • Comfort: Excellent weight transfer for loads under 20 lbs.

Points for improvement:

  • Back Ventilation: The foam panel can get quite warm during high-exertion hiking.
  • Pocket Hardware: The hip belt zippers use ribbon pulls which can be difficult to grip with gloves; a simple cord-and-knot replacement is a recommended DIY fix.
  • No Shoulder Pockets: You’ll need to add your own if you prefer easy access to snacks or electronics on the go.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 3FULGear Tutor is a solid choice for experienced hikers who prioritize a “light and fast” approach. If you are a summer hiker or a weekend warrior with a sub-10lb base weight, this pack offers the structure you need without the weight penalty of a traditional internal frame.

Have questions about the technical specs or how it handled the trail? Drop a comment on the YouTube video and let’s discuss.

11 Dec 2025

Durston Gear Kakwa 55 – 2026 Version – Initial Thoughts

by | posted in: OutdoorsDevon |

The Kakwa 55 has quickly become a staple in the thru-hiking community, known for balancing a robust aluminum frame with ultralight weight. For 2026, the updates continue to refine this powerhouse. I recently got my hands on the Ultra 200 version, and after packing it down and wearing it for a while, I have some initial thoughts on its construction, fit, and trail-readiness.

Watch the full first impressions video here.

Technical Breakdown & Features

  • Frame: Integrated aluminum frame that provides serious vertical stiffness.
  • Hardware: The buckles and straps (like the compression and adjustment lines) are remarkably narrow. This is clearly a weight-saving measure, though it doesn’t seem to compromise strength.
  • Front Mesh Pocket: Durable, non-stretchy mesh with an elastic top. It tapers toward the bottom, so larger items may sit higher in the pocket than expected.
  • Side Pockets: These are built from the same Ultra 200 material. The elastic is incredibly strong—so much so that reaching back to re-insert a water bottle while walking can be a bit of a challenge.

Packing and Capacity

The 55L capacity feels very generous. During my test pack, I loaded in:

  • A full sleep system (quilt and mat)
  • Four days’ worth of food
  • Two 1L water bottles
  • A ditty bag and other accessories

Even with a full load, there was plenty of room at the top for a bear canister or a foam mat using the top Y-strap. The pack tapers slightly, which helps keep the weight centered but means you need to be strategic about where you place bulkier items.

Sizing and Comfort Observations

I tested the Medium size (rated for up to a 20″ torso). At a 28″ waist and a ~19.5″ torso, here is what I noticed:

  • The Hip Belt: The “pull-forward” tightening system is a great touch, allowing you to use your body’s leverage to get a snug fit. However, for those with smaller waists (28″ and under), I found I was almost at the end of the webbing to get it tight enough to support the weight properly.
  • Shoulder Straps: The padding is reasonable, but the straps feel stiffer and narrower than some competitors (like Gossamer Gear). With a ~25lb load, you can definitely feel the pull on the front of the shoulders.
  • Hip Pockets: They feature waterproof zippers and a good length (perfect for multiple snack bars), but the curve of the belt when worn makes them a bit tight to operate one-handed.

First Impressions: Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Superior Weight Transfer: The aluminum frame does an excellent job of putting the weight on the hips.
  • Durability: The Ultra 200 fabric feels like it can handle years of abuse.
  • Generous Volume: It swallows gear easily, making it a viable option for longer carries or winter trips.

Cons:

  • Elastic Tension: The side pockets might be too tight for easy bottle access on the move.
  • Shoulder Comfort: The straps lack the “softness” of some other ultralight packs, which might be a factor on high-mileage days.
  • Zipper Operation: Stiff material and belt curvature make the hip pockets slightly “fiddly” to close one-handed.

Summary

The 2026 Durston Kakwa 55 is a technical, no-nonsense pack for hikers who want structure without the bulk. If you’re coming from a frameless pack, the stability here will feel like a massive upgrade. If you’re coming from a traditional heavy-duty pack, the weight savings will be a revelation—just be prepared for a slightly stiffer carry.

Are you planning on upgrading to the Ultra 200? Let me know your thoughts or questions in the video comments!