[quote=Jimshaw]The purpose of this post is to maybe demonstrate to beginners that ultralight gear is not better gear and to consider what you actually need in a piece of gear as being more important than what it weighs.

quote]

I can kind of see what Jim is saying in some respects. Let's say that X piece of gear needs to fulfill XYZ functions but is only tough enough to meet X and Y functions due to compromises made to cut weight. So if it only fulfills X and Y but leaves out Z then it doesn't meet your needs and might need replaced with a heavier more functional item.

I personally am really working on cutting weight but also making sure the item performs. However often what we think we need is actually only a want and therefore can be ditched for a lighter item. Or eliminated altogether.

On the flipside I also think that some light gear is more durable than more complicated heavy gear. There are just less zippers and parts to fail so you tend to up the reliability this way.

I hope I am making sense as I am very tired from work.

Have a good one,

Trevor