I never did get a reference to that article. I'd have to read it myself before I'd believe Backpacker made that claim.

I can relate to this.

I'll never forget as a Boy Scout with a 5 dollar external frame POS backpack up in the Rockies coming across a party with the latest gear caught in a rainstorm. One of the guys had a thin plastic poncho and was in the first stages of hypothermia. We were able to warm him up and get some warm fluids down him.

And yet, I'm certainly supportive of getting the best gear you can with the lowest weight. Your knees will thank you years down the road. Case in point was my purchase of some nice Leki poles. They helped me out tremendously, but I bore the ribbing of my comrades with a simple "It works for me!" Lo and behold, several years later, imagine my surprise when the oldest of my friends bought himself a pair. He HAD to mention that his were vastly different from mine, so I couldn't say "I told you so."

Sorry to bring this one back to life guys but I have to...

Backbacker December issue. Page 80. Here's my favorite excerps:

Step 2 Weigh everything (This is where they claim a razor blade is as good as a knife)
Step 4: Change your bedding (get a lighter sleeping bag and sleep in your clothes)
Step 7: Ditch the map
Step 9: Take less medicine (They recommend antibiotic ointment, duct tape, gauge pads, bandages, and blister treatment only)
Step 10: Empty your bottles (don't carry water...1L max if needed and guzzle when you find water long the way)