Nothing compares to that feeling of being truly out there, surrounded by wild places and close friends. The pace of life slows, even as your pace on trail picks up. You begin to appreciate the simple things, like jumping in snow-fed alpine lakes and gooey marshmallows. The physical challenge, the quieting of the mind and the stunning beauty make each moment full and alive.

This ultralight backpacking giveaway is all about that experience, and the amazing gear that helps to make it possible. We hand selected the five participating companies. We personally use gear from each of these brands and we personally know the founders who started them – and therefore, confidently recommend them.

The giveaway entry form is at the bottom of this post. On your way down to that form, take a moment to read about companies behind the giveaway. They are run by passion-driven individuals who want to make the best gear possible for themselves, their friends and you.

Giveaway Prizes

Sweepstakes Winner



– $300 Enlightened Equipment gift certificate

– Hummingbird Hammocks single hammock + tree strap

– 5 pairs of Cloudline Apparel socks

– Roscoe Outdoor Washakie pant + tee shirt

– Outpost Titanium 20 oz. double wall mug + eco spork with bottle opener

Runner Up Winner #1

– Hummingbird Hammocks single hammock + tree strap

– 5 pairs of Cloudline Apparel socks

– Roscoe Outdoor Washakie pant

– Outpost Titanium 3 piece cutlery set + durable carabiner

Runner Up Winner #2

– Hummingbird Hammocks single hammock + tree strap

– 5 pairs of Cloudline Apparel socks

– Roscoe Outdoor Washakie pant

– Outpost Titanium Colossus water bottle

About participating brands

Enlightened Equipment

Enlightened Equipment’s down quilts help you stay warm at night while cutting weight. While the company has graduated out of founder Tim Marshall’s basement, all quilts are still handmade in Winona, Minnesota. And best of all, they are both reasonably priced and custom built – you get to pick the length, width, color and down type.

Hummingbird Hammocks

Hummingbird Hammocks are lighter and pack smaller than any other hammock on the market. They weigh a mere 5.2 ounces and fit in the palm of your hand. Founder Chris Loidolt is a FAA certified parachute rigger. When Chris decided he needed a hammock, he looked around his rigging loft and used the skydiving materials he had on hand. Following a successful Kickstarter campaign, Hummingbird Hammocks is now a thriving small business, with all hammocks made in Colorado.



Buy Single Hammock by Hummingbird Hammocks



Cloudline Apparel

CloudLine Apparel was created to give you the best possible socks for every adventure. They believe that the feeling of topping out on a mountain, above the clouds, is one of the best feelings around. Cloudline socks are made in the USA from merino wool, a fiber that breathes while wicking moisture. And, its anti-microbial means the socks don’t smell, even after many uses. Cloudline socks are offered in a variety of colors, cushion levels and ankle lengths.



Buy The Switchback Hiking Sock - Light Cushion by Cloudline Apparel



Roscoe Outdoor

In 2008, Hans Howell and Hailey DeMarois founded Roscoe Outdoor, a clothing company based in Red Lodge, Montana. Hailey and Hans built their business from the ground up, starting with the Washakie pant. The Washakie pant is made of comfortable, quick dry material. It's fitted but not restrictive. And, it includes a litany of great features, such as: zipped pockets, reinforced knees, enclosed belt loops and reflective quick-pull calf cinches on the cuffs.



Buy Men's Washakie Pant by Roscoe Outdoor

Outpost Titanium

Outpost Titanium mugs, pans, sporks, water bottles and carabiners are as feather light as they are strong. And best of all, they offer dual utility. Heat up water in your double wall mug. Crack open a cold brew with your spork. Oh, and don't forget your titanium chopsticks. Now you can take the kitchen sink without actually taking the kitchen sink.



Buy 20 oz. Double Wall Titanium Mug by Outpost Titanium



Giveaway Entry Form

Use the entry form below to enter the giveaway. Entering your e-mail address will unlock LOTS of opportunities for bonus entries. Like and share to up your odds!