Our Founders
Light Hiking Gear is a retail outlet for backpacking, hiking and camping gear.
In late-2016, Rich and Genie Murphy opened our North American operations, located on Whidbey Island, WA, serving customers worldwide. Originally founded as "Aarn-USA", we updated our company's name in late-2022 to "Light Hiking Gear".
Genie & Rich are devoted users of light, comfortable and durable packs that allow you to carry loads in the most scientifically-balanced way possible. We are passionate about exploring the outdoors, and we want to help you on your journey, with hiking backpacks and camping gear for this express purpose.
Our Aarn Balance Pack Designers
Over 40 years ago and fueled by a passion to create the best load carrying systems the world has known, Aarn Tate and his partner, Devi Benson, began designing outdoor products. Aarn Design exists to create equipment that works harmoniously with the human body, allowing for deeper connections between body, spirit and nature.
Our equipment is designed in Aotearoa-New Zealand using the wild and beautiful Southern Alps as our play and testing ground. With its premium collection of science-smart, lightweight, comfortable Balance Packs, the Aarn brand is a favorite among outdoor aficionados.
Our Company
We Are The Best Source for All Your Hiking Gear Needs!
At Light Hiking Gear, located on beautiful Whidbey Island, Washington, we provide customers with the best in lightweight backpacking, hiking and camping gear, designed to enhance comfort and improve mobility. Our gear is ideal for both men and women of all ages!
With Light Hiking Gear, you can be confident that you’ll be getting your money’s worth. All of our packs and accessories offer only the finest in quality and design. Our handy selection guide can help you pick the backpack that is best suited to your needs. Our ultra-light backpacks are ideal for traveling on all sorts of terrain, with each pack available in different sizes.
Light Hiking Gear’s backpacking gear has become a favorite for those who love hiking. Whether you’re looking for large multifunctional backpacks for long trails or small hiking backpacks, we have them all! We pride ourselves on providing some of the most comfortable backpacks in the world at affordable rates. You can even find some for sale!
Check out our comprehensive collection of hiking and camping gear, consisting of award-winning "Aarn Balance Packs", Couloir ski & alpine packs, Conifer hiking packs, circum travel bags, and other hiking & camping accessories. Each of our packs is designed to maximize space and comfort so you can enjoy your outdoor adventues as much as we do!