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WE HAVE A VISION

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DISCONNECT - OV 100 Mile Challenge 2026 - YouTube

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We deliver award-winning gear straight to you without investor or retail markups.

We tenaciously pursue the design of performance ultralight gear and sell it directly to you without the extra fees of investors, middlemen or retail markups so you can spend more time outdoors pushing, learning and growing.

By changing from the traditional way of doing business & selling directly to you we cut 40-50% out of the price tag of products sold through retail stores.

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★★★★★ 754 reviews

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The OV Way...

Performance First

No matter what the cost, we focus on exactly what we need to build ultralight gear that performs exceptionally in its intended use-case. Outdoor Vitals gear does exactly what it's supposed to do, & it does it better!

Inspiring Confidence Through Experience

We want our followers to have absolute confidence in their gear & in themselves. Not only do we test our own gear, but we make it a point to learn all we can about ultralight backpacking so we can share it with you!

Direct Customer Connection

Our team is composed of outdoor enthusiasts just like you! We get it, and we want to help. Since our gear is only available directly through us, there are no retail markups, & we have a direct communication line where it really matters.

★★★★★

"Absolutely happy with it after over using it for over 500 miles on the PCT!"

Celete - StormLoft Topquilt

★★★★★

"The zipper up the middle of the outside pocket makes access to interior during breaks easy. Best of all, no low back pain with this pack."

Nola - Shadowlight Backpack

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"Temperature range started in the low 60s and fell to 34 during the night and early morning. The Zulu worked great with just a light mid layer! It definitely has earned the spot as my go to jacket!"

Charlie - Zulu Jacket

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Performance First Gear

Weight Is Important, But Not Everything...

When we set out to design a product, we have a specific use-case in mind. The result is gear that takes into account a variety of performance indicators - not just weight. By balancing things like function, breathability, comfort, etc while still maintaining an ultralight weight, OV gear is ideal for rugged backcountry mountain conditions.

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OV Blog

Will PFAS Bans Make Your Rain Jacket's DWR Coating Worse?

Possibly, and it depends on which replacement chemistry a brand switches to. PFAS-based DWR has been the most reliable, longest-lasting water-repellent treatment available for decades, and a growing list of states, including California, New York,...

Before You Buy a Rain Jacket, Read This

This guide covers what to verify before you buy: which claims are marketing, which numbers actually matter, what features to...

What Actually Keeps a Rain Jacket Dry After the DWR Wears Off?

Durable Water Repellent (DWR) is a surface coating, and surface coatings wear off with use. Once it does, the waterproof...

Can the Tushar Rain Jacket Keep You Dry Through All-Day Mountain Storms?

The Tushar Rain Jacket is a 7.4 oz ultralight shell built for backpackers who face real weather. It uses Toray...

Customers are saying

4.59 ★ (9,029)

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I picked this up after watching an older OV video on YouTube and thought why not give it a shot. The stove blooms almost immediately and I was able to boil 2 cups in the 600ml toaks pot with only a half ounce of fuel. In the field I would assume probably double that amount for the 2 cups but on my stove it was a nice way to make some tea.

Dave Weston

TOAKS Titanium Siphon Alcohol Stove

This hip belt makes all the difference. Walked across Spain with this belt love the products. About to walk the West Highland Way in Scotland huge fan!!!!

Paul Ferraro

Shadowlight Hip Belts (Original)

I do recommend sizing up for this one I normally wear an XL but found a 2XL fits better in this case. I wore this on a snowy hike in South Dakota in below 30 degree weather with just a long sleeve wicking shirt under it. Stayed toasty warm and felt well vented. I have my full review linked below in my YouTube. Excellent product! Highly recommend. You cant beat the weight to warmth ratio!

Craig Johnson

Ventus Active Hoodie - Men's

These pants are great! Comfortable but durable with quality stitching and cuts that make them feel good on trail but you can wear them in the office too. The adjustable waist strap and cuff cordage make them fit even better. The big star is the vents that are hidden when not in use but open up for a nice breeze when you get too warm - this prevents swampy grossness as well as chafing. utdoor Vitals has knocked it out of the park again!

Full review here: https://youtu.be/PkUYDYdMHpU

Doug Beaumont

Men's Satu Adventure Pants

My family got me this backpack for Father's Day and I couldn't be more happy!

I've taken it on two trips now and each trip was over 40 miles. This pack preformed great! I was able to get all my gear in the pack with extra room. The back, mesh, stretch pocket is a secret hero on this pack. I used it to put in my daily food so I didn't have to open my bear vault regularly.

The hip belt pockets are super easy to use!

I've had plenty of room in this pack for all I needed on this trip. I even had a BV450 in there.

The back pack is great. I really like how the carbon stays flex with my back when hiking.

Couldn't be happier.

Neal Benson

Carbon Evo 50 Backpack

I recently used the Cirq Trekking Pole Tent and Easton Tent Stakes on a 10-day backpacking trip across the Uinta Highline Trail in Utah, and I couldn’t be happier with their performance.

The Cirq was noticeably faster to set up than the other tents in our group, which included the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL, Big Agnes Copper Spur, Durston, and REI Quarter Dome 3. After a long day on the trail, being able to pitch camp quickly was a huge advantage.

We experienced several days of wind and rain, and the Cirq handled the conditions exceptionally well. Once properly tensioned, it stayed solid and gave me complete confidence throughout the trip.

At 6’2”, interior space is always a concern for me, but the Cirq exceeded my expectations. I used a Big Agnes Rapide SL (25” x 72”) sleeping pad and still had plenty of room at both my head and feet without touching the walls. The extra length made the tent feel much more comfortable than many ultralight options I’ve used.

One feature I really appreciated was the vestibule/wing area. It provided enough covered space for my Nemo Moonlite Elite Reclining Backpacking Chair, which allowed me to keep my backpack elevated off the wet ground while still leaving plenty of room to organize and store the rest of my gear outside the sleeping area. That extra usable space made camp much more functional.

The Easton Tent Stakes were equally impressive. They’re lightweight, longer than many standard ultralight stakes, and held incredibly well in the rain-soaked Uinta soil. Once driven in, they never loosened, even through wind and wet weather, and kept the Cirq securely anchored the entire trip.

After 10 days on the Uinta Highline Trail, I have complete confidence in both the Cirq Tent and the Easton Tent Stakes. They’re lightweight, thoughtfully designed, quick to set up, and performed flawlessly in real mountain conditions. I wouldn’t hesitate to take this setup on any future backpacking adventure.

John Elkins

Cirq Trekking Pole Tent

The north south exterior zipper is a clutch addition. The fabric has handled harsh desert camping like a champ, and the hip belt somehow feels supportive without restricting movement — like a hug.

And having TWO exterior stuff pockets instead of one giant dump pocket keeps gear much more organized and accessible on trail.

OV… you conquered yet another backcountry essential.

Wanda Bamberger

Shadowlight Carbon 60 Backpack

This jacket is the real deal! I took it up to mountains to test it out and the jacket performed great. I really like the cinch on the bottom of the jacket to keep heat in. The hood fits perfect.

The best part of this jacket is the stichless design from OV. They are right that you don't loose heat with this design and it keeps the down in place. The jacket was super warm even in 33 degree weather with a wind chill of 13.

Neal Benson

Zulu Down Jacket - Men's

I have taken this pack out on two excursions already and it has performed great! Check out my YouTube review for more info!

RockRidgeFarm

Shadowlight Carbon 60 Backpack

  1. My wife loves the way these pants look on me, so much he insisted I buy two more pairs for myself, (and for her) once we figured out the sizes. READ AND HEED THE SIZE CHART,

  2. I ride an adaptive recumbent trike and they are the perfect recumbent pants. Low profile back pockets, angled zipper side pocket, the ability to cinch the hems closed and stop drafts from migrating up your legs, and prevent chain stains.

John G., LolliPop Farm, VT

Men's Satu Adventure Pants

I’ve used the Altura Dynamic Pants on several trips now, most recently in the Tushar Mountains, where temps dropped into the 20s. They performed exactly as described. The fit is comfortable with enough flexibility to move easily on the trail but still structured enough to feel durable.

What stands out most is how well they hold up to use. I’ve brushed against rocks, sat on damp ground, and hiked through cold wind without issue. They dry quickly and don’t stretch out or sag after long wear. They’re lightweight but not flimsy, great balance between comfort and toughness.

I’d recommend these to anyone who spends time backpacking, camping, or just wants a reliable pair of pants that handle real conditions.

John Lisonbee

Altura Dynamic Pants

As a seasoned business traveler with well over 2 million miles in the air, I've learned that the right carry-on is the most valuable tool you can own. Based on the video review, here's my assessment of the Outdoor Vitals Kota UL pack and how it compares to my other quiver of business packs.

Detailed Review Summary

The pack's primary strength is its versatility, for my use case...a "business traveler" who might also want to do a day hike while on the road [00:26].

Compared to mycurrent setup, which includes a small roller bag and an REI Trail 25, the Kota UL offers a lighter, more streamlined profile [06:19]. Its sleek design is less likely to snag than the REI pack [01:54]. The Kota also appears to have superior organizational features, including four grab handles [03:40], a three-fold top compartment, and a bottom zipper with a locking function for added security—a feature I'd appreciate in a crowded terminal [04:50]. The protected laptop sleeve [05:49] is a critical feature that shows smart design.

However, the Kota UL doesn't quite match the durability of the Ogio travel pack [02:19] or my winter ski pack. The zippers and shoulder straps on the Kota feel "thin" compared to the "burly" zippers on the Ogio and the more robust support on his other bags [06:26]. While the Ogio is a great pure business bag with a clamshell design for packing cubes, it's not built for any sort of outdoor use [02:36]. In contrast, the Kota UL attempts to bridge this gap, but I must express concern about its long-term durability.

5 Key Takeaways

A True Hybrid Pack: The Kota UL is purpose-built for the business professional who wants a single pack for both work trips and light outdoor activities like day hikes [00:40].

Smart Security and Organization: The pack includes a great anti-theft locking zipper on the bottom [04:56] and a thoughtful laptop sleeve that protects your device from being damaged when you set the bag down [05:49].

Lightweight and Sleek: It's a lighter, more streamlined alternative to traditional business packs, and its sleek design makes it less cumbersome for travel [01:54].

Durability Concerns: The zippers and shoulder straps feel thin, raising questions about whether they can withstand the rigors of heavy, frequent use over time [06:26].

Quality Control Issue: The reviewer's pack was missing the side straps for attaching hiking poles [04:04]. While likely a one-off issue, it's a reminder to check your pack upon arrival.

Next - I am going to load it up from my trip this week (wanted to bring the Kota - but shipping was delayed) - looking forward to reporting back after months of use.

Bartholomew

KotaUL Ultralight Travel & Adventure Backpack

Use case: male business traveler who wants the ability to recreate some while in the Rocky Mountains & Western US. Here is the context of my situation and other packs in my quiver. Final judgement about straps, load, and zippers to come after more use. This video, "Part 2: Kota UL by #OutdoorVitals Adventure Pack. Unboxing & first impressions," provides a user's initial review and impressions of the Kota UL adventure pack, specifically focusing on its configuration for business and blended travel. The reviewer, a nearly 60-year-old male, details his typical packing for business trips, including toiletries, business attire, and tech. He highlights features like the snug fit of a Yeti bottle in a side pocket [01:03] and the dedicated space for a Surface Pro and tech bags [02:42]. He notes the zippers can be challenging when the pack is fully loaded [02:11] and expresses a slight disappointment about missing straps for external gear [01:19]. The pack weighs 18 lbs with his typical load, and he suggests a maximum comfortable weight of 22 lbs [00:44]. The reviewer concludes by expressing excitement for further use and a future review after three months of experience, recommending the pack for its functionality, especially for those who blend business and recreation travel, despite its higher price point compared to alternatives like the REI Trail 40 [03:32].

5 Takeaways:

Versatile for Blended Travel ✈️: The Kota UL is presented as ideal for individuals who combine business and recreational travel, offering good functionality for both uses, particularly in regions like the Rocky Mountains [03:12].

Capacity and Weight ⚖️: The pack comfortably holds an 18 lbs load, with a recommended maximum of 22 lbs for optimal user experience [00:44].

Thoughtful Internal Organization 🎒: It features dedicated spaces for a Surface Pro and tech bags, along with quick-access pockets for essential items like eye wipes, earplugs, and a passport [01:41].

Minor Drawbacks Identified 🤏: The reviewer noted that zippers can be difficult to operate when the pack is fully loaded, and there were missing external straps that would enhance its outdoor configuration [01:19].

Value Proposition 💰: While more expensive than some competitors, the Kota UL offers greater functionality, making it a worthwhile investment for those who leverage its business and recreational features...just not overnight backpacking for my use case. [03:32].

Bartholomew

KotaUL Ultralight Travel & Adventure Backpack

I've used this pack for almost two years and over 3500 miles, and absolutely, positively, love it! Even though it's extremely compact, it carries everything I've needed on many weekend backpacking trips as well as two "shorter" thru-hikes and the first half of the PCT. I only replaced it on the PCT because I've managed to rip several holes in the back pocket crawling under blowdowns and didn't want to keep repairing in while on trail. Nothing else has failed.

The fit has been perfect and even when packed with a bear can, ice axe and microspikes plus eight days of food, it carries comfortably. I've literally never had back or shoulder pain while using it. The minimal frame and load lifters do their job wonderfully. The hip belt, back pocket and side pockets have enough room to keep what I need on the outside of the pack, and everything else goes inside. Even the bear canister, once I learned how to do that correctly from an OV video. I plan to keep using it once I repair the holes and use it for many weekend trips to come!

Celeste Schoonover

CS40 Ultra Backpack

I love my new jacket. Such an epic combo of warmth but not the bulk, incredible quality, light weight and I love the pit zips to let off excess heat. So well thought out and executed of all the perfect details. And I love how sleek it is. And amazingly not too expensive!

Cedar Johnson

NovaPro Women's Jacket

As someone who has been backpacking for over 30 years, the Outdoor Vitals Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack is my first venture into the ultralight category, and I have to say, I’m really enjoying it. With pack weights of 25 lbs or less, the Shadowlight wears incredibly comfortably. I did push it to around 30 lbs once, and while it wasn't as supportive at that weight, it’s not a dealbreaker for me—I rarely pack that heavy anymore and have other packs for those occasions.

One feature I haven’t used much is the zipper, mainly because I’m in the habit of emptying my bag once I set up camp, or I pack essentials near the top for easy access. However, I do appreciate the deep pockets on the back and the smaller side pockets, which are perfect for stashing gear. The cinch strings are something I’m still getting used to, but they do a good job of keeping everything secure.

Overall, the Shadowlight has been a great addition to my gear lineup, and I’m looking forward to many more adventures with it!

Ricky Stephenson

Shadowlight Carbon 60 Backpack

I have gone through plenty of different lightweight rainshell jackets over the years. Never been able to get sufficient use out of them, before those jackets let water in through the membrane. With this experience I was a bit skeptical to try out another rain jacket in the UL category, but I am glad I did - the Tushar performs exquisitely. The face fabric is tough, and the inner print seems to keep the membrane in tact. Most importantly, rain stays out, and sweat evaporates through the pit zips well. I did put this jacket through the ringer last winter by skiing through the length of Norway (1650 miles) over 82 days. I did have serious rainstorms to start with, through which the Tushar kept me dry and warm. Approaching higher mountains, the main purpose of the jacket transformed to be an extra windblock layer when needed, through rigorous storms in southern Norway. Up north with spring approaching, I pulled the jacket out to protect against freezing rain. Kept my rain mittens and rain skirt stashed in the chest pocket, ready for use when needed. I have after this trip worn the jacket in everyday life and during rainy hikes, surpassing the number of use days I have ever managed from any other UL rainshell. Definitely a thumbs up from me for this piece of gear!

Teemu Hartikainen

Tushar Rain Jacket

We loved the backpacks that my wife and I got for this trip. We plan on using them for future trips and had a lot of people in the airports asking us about them.

John Lisonbee

KotaUL Ultralight Travel & Adventure Backpack

I recently picked up the Skyline Joggers from OV and I love these hiking pants. I've found the pants to be super durable. I was hiking some single track and the pants stood up to the brush around me. They have vented areas that has kept me cool while on trail and since they are pants my legs are protected. I really like the elastic bottoms that keep debris out while hiking. I'd totally buy them again!

Neal Benson

Skyline Trail Joggers

I absolutely love these joggers! I have been using a competitors jogger for almost 2 years and when these popped up I have to give them a try. I thought I’d use them here and there and wouldn’t compete with my favorite joggers for backpacking and hiking. Absolutely WRONG! I love these better!!!! Well done OV

Mike Blanda

Skyline Trail Joggers

Dave Weston

TOAKS Titanium Siphon Alcohol Stove

This hip belt makes all the difference. Walked across Spain with this belt love the products. About to walk the West Highland Way in Scotland huge fan!!!!

Paul Ferraro

Shadowlight Hip Belts (Original)

Craig Johnson

Ventus Active Hoodie - Men's

Full review here: https://youtu.be/PkUYDYdMHpU

Doug Beaumont

Men's Satu Adventure Pants

My family got me this backpack for Father's Day and I couldn't be more happy!

The hip belt pockets are super easy to use!

I've had plenty of room in this pack for all I needed on this trip. I even had a BV450 in there.

The back pack is great. I really like how the carbon stays flex with my back when hiking.

Couldn't be happier.

Neal Benson

Carbon Evo 50 Backpack

John Elkins

Cirq Trekking Pole Tent

And having TWO exterior stuff pockets instead of one giant dump pocket keeps gear much more organized and accessible on trail.

OV… you conquered yet another backcountry essential.

Wanda Bamberger

Shadowlight Carbon 60 Backpack

Neal Benson

Zulu Down Jacket - Men's

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