In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Matt Mason,

aka Pretzel.

Today's episode is all over the map, both figuratively and literally.

Pretzel is a triple crowner, trailrunner, sober hiker, former mountain crossings employee,

wildland firefighter, gear snob, and an all-around character. His Beard game is strong and his opinions are stronger.

If you liked the Pony episode, we think you'll really enjoy this one as well.

Before getting to the ads, one quick heads up, we strongly

encourage you to check out Backpacker Radio's Instagram post from October 16th as we announced

a rad giveaway we're doing with gossamer gear.

If you fast forward through this part of the show, I'm sorry, no free

the one tent for you. Okay, ads.

If you listen to backpack or radio, you'll know that Zach and I are big fans of Gossamer gear

Manufacturers of lightweight backpacking gear and accessories their packs carry comfortably their

roomy shelters protect in harsh weather conditions and their trekking poles are some of the lightest on the planet.

Gossamer gear is changing the perception of ultralight delicate gear.

Zach and I are both users of Gossamer Gears packs and shelters.

Zach uses the Grilla, their 40 liter pack on the PCT, and their new model

on his recent hike of the Wind River High Route and in Colorado. He also uses a handful of

their accessories like the Light Flex Hiking Umbrella, which works for both the sun and the rain

protecting his fragile ginger skin and the hipster their lightweight Fanny Pack. I

carried the one is my shelter on the AT&PCT which is is both roomy and light, weighing in at less than one and a half pounds.

As you already know, it's the one you need.

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