#156 - Behind the Design with Exo Mountain Gear

Exo Mountain Gear specializes in load-hauling backpacks designed for hunters.  Steve Speck and Mark Huelsing join me for a behind-the-scenes look at Exo's newest K4 pack design.  After more than 3 years in development and over a decade of pack-building experience, the K4 is a finely tuned design and the best pack Exo has designed to date.This episode is loaded with insight into the principles of pack design, the mechanical function of load carry (this is HUGE), and how Steve decides which features and updates make the cut when revising his designs. If you spend any amount of time with any kind of pack strapped to your back (yes, even a lightweight one), you can learn a lot from Steve and Mark.  Knowing how your gear functions will put you in the driver's seat rather than being a mere passenger hoping it's all going to work out.Exo Mountain Gear is the real deal.  They make a premium product and a team behind them that cares about their customers.Enjoy!Show Notes and LinksCatching up with Mark and SteveRecapping Steve’s recent Alaskan sheep huntsRecapping Mark’s Mountain Goat huntMental strength - how to stay positive and mentally presentTransitioning to the natural cycle of the backcountryWhere pack design beginsExo Pack design principlesPack design changes over the yearsExciting changes to the K4 design Where quality load carry begins The importance of hip-belt structureFinding the sweet spot in pack designThe importance of taking care of customersIvory holster compatibility with K4Plans for the rest of 2023How to follow up with Exo Mountain Gear  https://exomtngear.com/InstagramYouTubeThe Hunt Backcountry PodcastSupport the Show.Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co