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.

17 Mar 2026

Embracing the Wild- A Journey on the Demon Trail

by | posted in: OutdoorsDevon |

For those who seek the quietest corners of the world, New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park offers a landscape that feels almost prehistoric. In my latest video, I leave the relative comfort of Lake Alabaster Hut behind to venture onto one of the Hollyford Track’s most notorious sections: The Demon Trail.

Beyond the Swinging Bridge

The journey begins with a crossing of the Pike River via a classic New Zealand swinging bridge. In Fiordland, these bridges aren’t just practical; they are the gateway to the deep wilderness. Once you step off the wire and wood onto the far bank, the character of the Hollyford Track shifts dramatically.

The path becomes more rugged, more intimate, and significantly more demanding.

What is the Demon Trail?

The section between Lake Alabaster and McKerrow Island Hut is affectionately (and sometimes frustratingly) known as the Demon Trail. Unlike the lower valley’s gentle forest paths, this stretch is a constant dance with the elements.

  • The Terrain: Expect rocky outcrops, tangled tree roots, and detours around recent storm damage.
  • The Crossings: From sturdy swinging bridges to the adrenaline-inducing traditional three-wire bridge, your balance will be tested.
  • The Atmosphere: This is a temperate rainforest in its purest form. Towering ferns, moss-draped beech trees, and the constant sound of flowing water create a sensory experience that no narration could ever truly capture.

Finding the Rhythm of the Rainforest

In the video, I’ve chosen to let the environment speak for itself. There is no talking—only the crunch of boots on wet earth, the rush of hidden waterfalls, and the subtle, minimalist music that mirrors the serenity of the valley.

As the canopy opens, you’ll catch glimpses of steep, jagged mountain peaks rising above the mist—a reminder of the scale of the glacial valley we are traversing.

Why Hike the Hollyford?

Unlike many of New Zealand’s “Great Walks,” the Hollyford Track follows a low-elevation glacial valley. This means it avoids the alpine extremes of the nearby Milford or Routeburn tracks, allowing for a lush, green experience year-round. However, the “low elevation” doesn’t mean “easy.” The frequent rain and shifting landscape make it a dynamic, ever-changing environment that rewards those who appreciate the raw, unpolished side of hiking.

Watch the Journey

If you’re looking for a moment of peace or a realistic look at New Zealand’s backcountry, you can watch the full immersive experience below:

Hiking the Demon Trail | Hollyford Track Day 2

If you haven’t seen the first day of my Hollyford Track hike before the Damon trail, you may want to check out
Solo Backpacking New Zealand’s Hollyford Track Day 1

Have you braved the Demon Trail or crossed a three-wire bridge in the New Zealand wilderness? Share your stories in the video comments.

12 Mar 2026

Finding Solitude: Solo Backpacking the Hollyford Track Day 1

by | posted in: OutdoorsDevon |

New Zealand is world-renowned for its “Great Walks,” but for those seeking a deeper connection to the wilderness—away from the crowds and the rigid booking systems—the Hollyford Track in Fiordland National Park offers something truly special.

Most hikers begin the Hollyford Track with a gentle transition, stopping at Hidden Falls Hut for their first night. However, when the Fiordland weather offers a rare window of clear skies and sunshine, sometimes the best move is to keep the boots moving.

In my latest video, I skip the traditional first stop at Hidden Falls Hut, and push all the way from the road end to Lake Alabaster Hut in a single, immersive day of solo backpacking.

Leaving the Road Behind

The journey starts in the deep greens of the beech forest, following the path of the Hollyford River. Without the typical Fiordland drizzle, the forest takes on a different character—light filters through the canopy, highlighting the vibrant mosses and ferns that define this glacial valley.

Beyond Hidden Falls

Reaching Hidden Falls is usually a milestone that signals the end of the day’s effort. After stopping to take in the 31-meter drop of the falls, I made the decision to keep going.

The section between Hidden Falls and Lake Alabaster is where the track starts to show its teeth. You leave the flat valley floor for the Little Homer Saddle. This climb provides a significant change in perspective, offering glimpses of the surrounding Darran Mountains that are often hidden by clouds. Little Homer Falls is another beautiful waterfall along this trail, and the bridge had been wiped out by a storm, so I had to cross the creek by hopping across rocks. Luckily the water was low, and I didn’t get my feet wet.

The Arrival: Lake Alabaster (Wawā)

Arriving at Lake Alabaster Hut after a dual-section day is an incredible feeling. The lake itself is a stunning sight—a vast, serene body of water framed by steep, forest-clad mountains.

Pushing through allowed me to experience the transition from river valley to lakeside wilderness in one continuous flow, heightening the sense of isolation and immersion that makes the Hollyford so special.

Experience the Journey

This video captures the entire Day 1 push in a “place over personality” style. No talking, no distractions—just the rhythm of a long day’s hike and the natural soundscape of the New Zealand backcountry.

Solo Backpacking the Hollyford Track | Road End to Lake Alabaster

You may also be interested in my second day along the Hollyford Track Hiking the Demon Trail | Hollyford Track Day 2

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.

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