Take Less, Do More: Exploring the Gossamer Gear Line at Wind River Outdoor Company

At Wind River Outdoor Company, we’re passionate about equipping adventurers with gear that enhances their outdoor experiences while keeping things light and simple. That’s why we’re thrilled to spotlight Gossamer Gear, a brand synonymous with ultralight backpacking and minimalist design. With their motto, “Take Less. Do More.,” Gossamer Gear crafts high-performance, lightweight gear that empowers hikers, thru-hikers, and weekend warriors to explore farther and enjoy more. In this blog, we dive into some standout products from their line, available now at our store, and why they’re perfect for your next adventure.

Why Gossamer Gear?

Founded by Glen Van Peski in the late 1990s, Gossamer Gear was born from a desire to lighten the load for backpackers without sacrificing durability or functionality. After a trip with his son’s Boy Scout troop left him hauling a 70-pound pack, Glen set out to rethink backpacking gear, starting with a pack that weighed just ounces. Today, Gossamer Gear is a leader in ultralight innovation, offering backpacks, shelters, trekking poles, and accessories designed by hikers for hikers. Their commitment to sustainability, with initiatives like using recycled fabrics in products like the Vagabond Jet, makes them a favorite for eco-conscious adventurers.

Here’s a look at some of the top Gossamer Gear products we’re excited to carry at Wind River Outdoor Company.

Featured Products

1. Mariposa 60 Backpack

The Mariposa 60 is a flagship in Gossamer Gear’s lineup, and for good reason. This 60-liter ultralight backpack, weighing just 1011 grams (medium size), is a favorite among thru-hikers and backpackers tackling long trails like the Appalachian Trail or Continental Divide Trail. Its updated design features a new PVT frame, recycled materials, load lifters, and an ergonomic hipbelt for superior comfort.

What sets the Mariposa apart? Its feature-rich design includes a comfortable harness system and a layout crafted with backpackers’ needs in mind. With multiple pockets and a spacious main compartment, it’s perfect for organizing gear without adding unnecessary weight. Our customers love its versatility for everything from weekend trips to multi-month thru-hikes. Priced at $315, it’s an investment in comfort and durability.

2. Gorilla 50 Ultralight Backpack

Looking for a pack that’s light enough to forget you’re wearing it but tough enough for the trail? The Gorilla 50 is your go-to. This 50-liter ultralight backpack, tipping the scales at just around 905 grams (medium size), is built for adventurers who want to move fast and light. Updated in 2024 with a sleek PVT frame system and made from PFAS-free recycled Robic nylon, it’s as eco-conscious as it is durable.

The Gorilla 50 is all about smart simplicity. Its roomy front mesh pocket swallows up wet gear or extra layers, while the angled side pockets let you grab your water bottle without breaking stride. The adjustable hipbelt and load lifters keep the pack snug, supporting loads up to 30 pounds with ease, with 25 pounds recommended for comfort. Perfect for quick overnights or extended treks where every ounce counts, this pack, priced at $275, is a must-have for hikers who crave efficiency without fuss.

3. The One and The Two Ultralight Backpacking Tents

When it comes to ultralight shelters, Gossamer Gear’s The One and The Two tents are unbeatable choices for solo adventurers and hiking pairs alike. These tents combine minimalist design with robust protection, making them perfect for backpackers who want to stay light without sacrificing comfort.

• The One: Designed for solo hikers, The One weighs a mere 22oz (624 grams) and offers a spacious interior for one person plus gear. Its single-wall design, made from durable, PFAS-free nylon with sewn-in bug netting, keeps you protected from the elements while minimizing pack weight. With a generous vestibule for gear storage and easy setup using trekking poles (120–150 cm recommended), it’s a favorite for thru-hikers and minimalists. Priced at $255, The One is a dream for solo adventurers seeking simplicity and reliability.

• The Two: Built for two, The Two weighs just 27.86oz (790 grams) and provides ample space for couples or hikers with extra gear. Like The One, it features durable nylon construction, sewn-in bug netting, and a single-wall design for quick setup with trekking poles (120–150 cm recommended). Its two large vestibules offer plenty of room for gear storage, and it holds up well in wind, rain, and snow. Priced at $320, The Two strikes a perfect balance of weight, durability, and livability for shared adventures.

Both tents have been praised for their easy setup and weather resistance, making them ideal for everything from quick overnights to long-distance treks. Whether you’re flying solo or hiking with a partner, The One and The Two deliver ultralight shelter you can count on.

4. LT5 Three Piece Carbon Trekking Poles

No ultralight kit is complete without the LT5 Three Piece Carbon Trekking Poles. These poles, sold as a pair for $195, are incredibly lightweight at just 139 grams each. Their carbon construction ensures durability while keeping your pack weight minimal. Perfect for setting up The Two tent or providing stability on rugged trails, these poles are a favorite among ultralight enthusiasts.

5. Thinlight Foam Insulation Pad

For a versatile addition to your sleep system, the Thinlight Foam Insulation Pad (starting at $22) is a lightweight solution at just 1/8 inch thick. Use it to add warmth under your sleeping pad, as a sit pad, or even as a protective layer for your gear. Its compact design makes it a staple for ultralight backpackers looking to shave grams without sacrificing comfort.

Why Shop Gossamer Gear at Wind River Outdoor Company?

At Wind River Outdoor Company, we’re proud to stock Gossamer Gear’s innovative products because they align with our mission to help you explore the outdoors with ease. Whether you’re planning a day hike, an overnighter, or a months-long thru-hike, Gossamer Gear’s ultralight gear removes barriers to enjoying the trail. Plus, their commitment to sustainability means you’re supporting a brand that cares about our wild spaces.

Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the perfect Gossamer Gear products for your needs, whether it’s finding the right backpack size or ensuring your tent setup is trail-ready. Visit us in-store or online to explore the full Gossamer Gear collection.

Join the Ultralight Movement

Gossamer Gear’s philosophy of “Take Less. Do More.” isn’t just about gear, it’s about embracing minimalism to maximize your outdoor experiences. Lighter packs mean more miles, more comfort, and more connection with the wild spaces we love. Whether you’re eyeing the Mariposa 60, The Two tent, or the LT5 trekking poles, Gossamer Gear’s products are designed to help you go farther and feel freer.

Ready to lighten your load? Stop by to shop Gossamer Gear today. Share your adventures with us on social media using #windriveroutdoorcompany and #takelessdomore, we can’t wait to see where your Gossamer Gear takes you!

Disclaimer: Prices and availability are subject to change. Check our website for the latest details.

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