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Ray-Way Products
We Make Kits for Sewing Your Own
Lightweight Outdoor Gear
Contrary to common belief, you do not need to equip yourself with store-bought gear. You can make your own. And when you do, you gain a tremendous sense of freedom from today's consumer mentality - where the products are heavily advertised, expensive, and yet cheaply mass-produced. Making it yourself is about saving money, making it right - without using any cheap materials or manufacturing short-cuts - and using outdoor gear that you can be truly proud of.
Our kits contain only the finest and lightest synthetic materials.
We design our kits for ease of sewing
and provide detailed, step-by-step instructions with many illustrations
This is nonsense.
Please read Why Sew?
Literally thousands of people have completed our kits without problems, most with no sewing experience. All that is required is a bit of patience, and the determination to follow our instructions carefully.
Why Sew? * Sewing Tips * The Integrity Paradigm
See our Order Form for additional info.
My home-made Ray-Way gear is A+ professional in function, looks, design, and strength! Not to mention lasting over 9 years of all year around heavy use!" - James G., CA
Wednesday, 25th of December, 2024 We are well stocked on materials and kits for everything listed on our Order Form. We have loads of materials, and the insulation is factory-fresh, as always.
Trail Life
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Ray Jardine's Lightweight Backpacking
Ray's book covers the essentials of Lightweight hiking, including packweight and equipment, clothing and footwear, nourishment and physical conditioning, and the myriad topics that contribute to these basics. There are chapters on the safety of lightweight hiking and on pack-weight evolution. There are several gear chapters, including the Backpack, Tarp, and Quilt.
There are chapters on wilderness skills such as Stealth Camping, Campfire and Cook-fire, Knots for the Hiker. Jenny has written a chapter for women hikers, from a woman's perspective. There are chapters on foot care, creek fording, snow travel, snakes and bears, to name just a few.
"Once every two or three decades a book comes along that fundamentally reshapes how we think. Jardine's is such a work. Page after page, Jardine brilliantly flips the sacred cows of backpacking on their heads. Every suggestion comes from experience: Jardine has hiked the PCT three times, the Appalachian Trail and the Continental Divide Trail. Get a copy. It could change your trail life." -Backpacker magazine
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"Trail Life could be the most important book about backpacking that you will ever read.
"There are a few names that have revolutionized the sport of backpacking, Ed Garvey, Colin Fletcher, Harvey Manning and of course the Master of lightweight backpacking Ray Jardine. Ray's book 'Beyond Backpacking' revolutionized long distance backpacking by showing hikers how to cut the weight out and exploding myths about heavy equipment. Much of the lightweight backpacking equipment and styles today were inspired by Ray and his groundbreaking book. Now Ray and his hiking partner and wife Jenny have revised and updated that classic book with Trail Life. Trail Life is chock full of lightweight hiking ideas that will further revolutionize the sport.
"This is the most comprehensive long distance hiking guide ever written.
"The author and his wife have hiked well over 25,000 miles and all the well known trails as well as a myriad of other trails. Their experiences will prove to be an invaluable guide for those who love to hike and those who seek the solitude of the woods."
-Roger Williamson
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Quilt-Kit
Ray-Way "Sew It Yourself" Kit |
Used at camp or home for sleeping at night. It works like a sleeping bag, but is open underneath you. You lie on your foam pad and drape the quilt over you like a blanket. But unlike a blanket, the quilt is contoured, so that it molds to the shape of your body.
Our quilt design is much more efficient in terms of its reduced weight and bulk, because it eliminates the useless part of the sleeping bag flattened beneath you. It is just as warm as the most expensive sleeping bag of comparable thickness, yet can be made at reasonable cost - even by those with little sewing experience.
Our Quilt Kit comes in one-person and two-person models, and contains the finest and lightest synthetic materials, and complete, step by step illustrated sewing instructions. The sewing is not difficult. See Why Sew? and Sewing Tips
"When people are worried about the feasibility of going ultralight, the Ray-Way Quilts are exhibit number one in convincing them that ultralight is not about skimping on safety and comfort. Not only are the quilts lighter than conventional equipment, but they are better: every bit as warm, easier to adjust to comfort, less constricting, and more adaptable to multiple uses (e.g., as a blanket around camp). The kits were straightforward to put together with clear instructions taking you through the process step-by-step. I am an ultra-satisfied customer." -Scott G.
"I have been using a quilt with the alpine upgrade for around two years now. It is my only quilt and performs far better than any sleeping bag I have ever used. The kit was easy to assemble and has greatly improved the way I sleep in the wilds. I find I can regulate my temperature in my sleep and I don't have to wake up to zip and unzip like I do with a sleeping bag. I highly recommend a quilt to anyone serious about backpacking." -Josh E.
Our Quilt Kits also make wonderful "blankets" for beds. You can make them full width and length, and with no leg taper or foot pocket. For use at home, or as gifts to loved ones. Due to its light weight, you might be amazed how comfortable a quilt "blanket" is to sleep under. Fabulous!
Quilt-Stowbag-Kit
For carrying the quilt in a Ray-Way backpack while hiking. This stowbag is ultralight, waterproof, economical, and easy to sew. All our kits include detailed and illustrated sewing instructions.
Storage Bag Kit
Ray-Way "Sew It Yourself" Kit |
For storing the quilt at home. This simple bag is made with a synthetic and lightweight, and highly breathable fabric - just the thing for storing your quilt between adventures. The storage bag will keep your quilt clean and bug-free, and will help retard mildew and odors. And best of all, the storage bag is large enough that it will not crush the insulation. Makes excellent gifts, or a "starter" project for someone learning to sew.
Sleeping-Pad Kit
(kit) This Kit will allow you to modify a foam pad so that it fits folded snugly inside your Ray-Way Backpack. The kit comes with detailed instructions. Not included in the kit, you will need to buy a foam pad from your local sporting goods or department store for modification with this kit.
Tarp-Kit
Ray-Way "Sew It Yourself" Kit |
For anyone who would like to sleep warmer and more comfortably in the wilds. The Ray-Way Tarp is simple in appearance, yet will outperform even the most sophisticated tents in a wide variety of weather and terrain, when used according to the instructions in the Ray-Way Tarp Book Essential. This tarp is about a fourth the weight of even the lighter tents, and it offers at least twice the living space. And even though this tarp is open all around, it is probably warmer than the tent you are using. Why? Because of the tarp's superior ventilation. A tent traps moisture - even one with extra-large vents) - and on a cold night that moisture saps your body heat (conducts your body warmth away from you).
The Ray-Way Tarp comes in "Sew-it-Yourself" Kit form. The Kit includes all the materials, and detailed and illustrated sewing instructions. Sewing this kit is not difficult. Please see Why Sew?.
"I just finished my Ray-Way Tarp Kit. It was my first sewing project, the first time I've used a sewing machine, and the first time I stepped out of my, "Oh, I can't do that..." comfort level. The tarp rocks! I cannot believe how easy it really is. For any readers wondering if it'll be too much work please, please go for it! Take it one stitch at a time. The instructions are simply amazing. And the best part: Holding something in your hands that, 1) you made, 2) that you now know you can customize and change, 3) and that you can repair if or when needed. Take it from someone who'd never threaded a sewing machine before... you can do it!" -Zane D.
"This weekend my wife and I took our newly constructed Ray-Way tarp to the desert for its inaugural voyage. We particularly enjoyed sleeping under the tarp which allowed us to enjoy the night without sweltering inside our old claustrophobic tent. Not to mention leaving four unnecessary pounds at home and the deeper connection to the landscape of stars and sounds of the night." -Ben T.
"After a tremendous rainstorm one night, we were totally dry using our Ray-Way tarp. Some friends who had camped in their 3-season tent were soaked. Thanks for a new frame of reference." -Jim H.
"Using the Ray-Way tarp in the high Wasatch Mountains, we experienced the first winter storm. 1.57 inches of moisture in the form of rain, sleet, hail and eight inches of snow. I pitched the tarp using the two pole Ray-Way method. My tarp was one of three structures out of eight that did not sustain any damage and collapse from the wet snow. In the morning I had 18 inches of snow piled on each side of the tarp, but not a drop of water inside! If I had any questions about the design of the tarp, they were answered last Friday night." -John M. Venture Crew 9112 Advisor, US.Army.Mil
Net-Tent
Ray-Way "Sew It Yourself" Kit |
The Ray-Way Net-Tent is a lightweight enclosure made of netting that clips very simply under a Ray-Way Tarp Kit for keeping the insects at bay.
Our Ray-Way Net-Tent comes in several designs and sizes: please see our Order Form:
Quadratic Sewing Video
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(Video) Jenny demonstrates the complete construction of the Quadratic Net-Tent kit.
Run time 45 minutes.
BatWing
Ray-Way "Sew It Yourself" Kit |
A door that closes-off one end of the Ray-Way tarp, used on those stormy nights when the wind would slant rain a ways into the interior. Our BatWing is lightweight and is quick and easy to set up. It works with or without a Net-Tent or Spitfire, and is adjustable depending on the geometry of the tarp pitch - whether you pitch your tarp higher or lower.
Tarp Book Essential
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This book explains how to camp with a Ray-Way Tarp - safely and enjoyably when backpacking or hiking, sea-kayaking, canoeing, bicycle or motorcycle touring, scouting and so forth.
312 information-packed pages, a few hundred B/W photos, and lavishly illustrated
The book includes the history of the Ray-Way Tarp design, and explains why Ray and Jenny enjoy tarp camping so much. The book describes campsite selection and tarp pitching methods, and includes several photo sequences of knot tying for tarp pitching. There are chapters on bugs and critters and rain and wind - all the questions and perhaps reservations that a person might have in regards to camping with a Ray-Way Tarp.
AT Gear-Video
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(DVD Video) Enjoy an evening with Ray in the Maine woods, as he explains the use of the gear that he carried on his 2010 Thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. Filmed the day after he completed his thru-hike. Topics covered include:
- Site selection
- Preening of a stealth-site
- Pitching the tarp
- Hanging the Spitfire under the tarp
- Crawling in to the Spitfire (putting it on like a garment)
- Making a comfortable bed
- Packing the backpack the following morning
- Taking down the Spitfire and stowing
- Taking down the tarp and stowing.
Run time: 93 minutes
Backpack-Kit
Ray-Way "Sew It Yourself" Kit |
The majority of highly-touted features on most backpacks actually work against the hiker. For one thing, they add weight - and of course expense. They also tend to waste one's time spent fiddling with them. Contrary to the hype, most of those features are designed for marketing rather than hiking. We designed our Ray-Way backpack for thru-hiking, and have used it during all of our many multi-thousand mile backpack trips since 1993. Our backpack is extremely light-weight, and yet very durable when taken well care of.
Our kit Includes all the needed materials as well as detailed, step-by-step sewing instructions with many illustrations.
The last Ray-Way backpack I made has done over 10,000 miles, so I'm ordering a new one. Still the best pack out there! -Scott Williamson
I was so impressed at how detailed and clear the sewing instructions for the Ray Way Backpack were. Having zero sewing experience, I really thought I would have to sew the backpack twice. But since the instructions were so great, the pack is by far my favorite pack I've ever hiked with. Thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge. -Troy A.
I have sewn nine backpack kits. Two for myself, and others as gifts. Still planning on the AT with ALL Ray-Way gear. -Craig H.
Also be sure to check out our Backpack Pocket Kit:
"Your designs underwent a very rigorous six day field trial with sixteen sets of Ray-Way gear (backpacks, tarps, and quilts). To my knowledge there was not one failure and this was by mostly novice seamsters. WOW!" -David d.
Backpack-Sewing-Video
Ray-Way "Sew It Yourself" Kit |
This DVD Video shows the full sewing construction of the Ray-Way Backpack Kit.
Jenny demonstrates the sewing while Ray narrates. And during the one hour run time, we detail the backpack's complete construction, start to finish.
The video shows how easily the backpack kit goes together, and it also provides an understanding of the assembly methods, for those who prefer to learn in a visual and audio context.
For someone who prefers, instead, to read and study printed instructions, those that come with the kit describe the process fully, step by step. The video is not meant to replace those printed instructions.
Insulated-Hat-Kit
Ray-Way "Sew It Yourself" Kit |
A kit that you sew together yourself. The hat is warm and yet very lightweight. The size medium weighs only 1.1 ounces. And the hat is very packable, occupying very little space in a backpack or clothing bag.
The Hat consists of one layer of Alpine synthetic insulation, which is about 0.9" thick. This insulation is sandwiched between two layers of lightweight nylon fabric. So the hat is fully reversible.
Intended for use with a quilt or sleeping bag, as well as outdoor activities such as camping and hiking in cool to cold weather. The hat is highly breathable, allowing normal insensible perspiration to evaporate - so it offers maximum warmth.
"I think the Insulated Hat Kit is your most under-stated item. It seems so mundane on the web page whereas the backpack, tarp, and quilt kits etc. all shout for themselves. But the times I've used the Insulated hat in a challenging cold/wet/windy situation and it's turned the whole thing around in a matter of minutes. Both night and day, it offers amazing utility for a 1 oz weight. I never go camping without one." -Mike G.
Just finished my Insulated Hat. I love it! I have used a windstopper fleece hat that velcroed under the chin for years. It weighed 2.3 oz and was pretty thin. The Ray-Way Insulated Hat weighs only 1oz.(!!!), is several times thicker (much warmer), and is totally windproof!! The insulated hat is so superior, there is absolutely no reason to ever take the fleece hat again! Fantastic!!!! This was my third Ray-Way Kit. It is so great to see the quality in the finished gear go up as I get better on the machine. Thanks again! -Matt L.
Knife-Kit
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Our knife kit is intended as a beginner's project, and can be assembled with minimal tools and no prior woodworking experience. The four-inch blade is stainless steel, has a very sharp and exceptionally durable edge. Its made of world-class steel, and will last a lifetime - and will run circles around any cheap knife.
The wooden handle comes in pre-drilled pieces that you epoxy together and shape to suit. The finished Knife is considerably lighter in weight than almost all expensive knives with good quality steel in them. This means you can take your Ray-Way knife hiking, backpacking, or whatever, with minimal extra weight.
This is a beautiful knife, and because you made it yourself it has much more meaning than a store bought one.
"I loved the kit and the instructions and the way everything went together just as the instructions said. The wood handle is much more beautiful than the pictures can show--it has fiddle and the colors change from a glowing golden yellow to a light brown as it is tipped in the light. I hated to use the sealer on it because now I can not enjoy its smell which was wonderful." -Dick M.
Sheath Kit
(kit) The sheath is the open pouch type, protecting the blade while securing the knife by friction alone. It is meant to be carried in the backpack rather than worn on a belt. This is for reasons of simplicity and safety. Our Sheath Kit contains a full set of illustrated instructions, and a set of patterns for cutting out the leather sheath, the welt, and an optional Lightning Bolt pattern for tooling the leather. After cutting out the leather, you punch holes for the stitching, following our template, then hand-stitch the sheath closed. Very simple!"The leather sheath kits are superb! The instructions and materials are flawless. Thank you for the continued inspiration and integrity you bestow to this wonderful life. This art is highly rewarding. With gratitude," -Will Lady
Atlantic Caper Video
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(DVD Video)
A 23-foot ocean rowboat.
No sails, no motor,
just two pairs of oars.
Solar panels to power the watermaker.
A 90-day supply of food.
A husband and wife team
with a desire for adventure
and an intense determination to succeed.
Ray & Jenny's Atlantic Crossing
3,000 miles in 53 days
Video Run time: 48 min.
"I have to say that Atlantic Caper is one of the best documentaries that we've seen!" -R. S.
"Atlantic Caper is a fantastic show! Thank you so much for investing the time and effort to produce this gem of a movie. The production values are surprisingly good, the editing and narration are first rate, and the on-ocean footage is breathtaking." -Brett T.
"Caper Across the Atlantic is awesome! Last Friday night, we sat in awe of the adventure, the sunsets and sunrises, the Ocean. Congratulations, and the professionalism is impressive." -Ben A.
"I've watched your video three times now and I think it's super!!! I must admit I cried when you left La Gomera and I cheered and cried when you arrived at Barbados. Sure was glad you included the Skydiving also! Great!!" - D. J.
Siku Kayak
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Paddling the Coast of Arctic Alaska
(Book)
Join Ray and Jenny as they paddle their home-built kayak 1,400 miles to the top of Alaska and beyond. You'll discover more about the Arctic coastline than any tourist ever dreamed of. But get ready to test your mettle: you'll find whales and caribou, tundra and grizzlies, permafrost and puffins, and a beauty and vastness that tugs at your heart.
256 Adventure-Packed Pages
272 b&w Photos, 13 Maps
"I just wanted to let you know what a pleasure it was to read about your adventures in your Siku Kayak book. What will and determination it must have taken to continue on at times, and also to make the decision to not continue further. The pictures were well worth a million words, as realizing that the ice may not let you back to shore: AMAZING...I also watched the Atlantic Caper DVD and loved it as well. The skydiving at the end was quite a finish to the whole adventure, nice landing... Thank you so much for sharing with us." -Steven S.
"I was quite impressed with Siku Kayak. I love the way you kept printing costs down, yet managed to include tons of inspiring photos though your website. Outstanding adventure!" -Ben T.
| To everyone who has placed orders for our kits, our sincere appreciation. We hope you are envisioning good thoughts for the successful completion of your projects, and for the enjoyable time you will have using your home-made gear in the wilds. Make sure you tell your friends about our kits so they can discover for themselves the joys of making and using their own home-made Ray-Way gear. |
Hey guys. I've long thought about writing and finally merely decided to say "thanks". Simply - thanks. Thanks for always being there, for your forward thinking, for your inspiration, for proving it can be done, for being bulletproof to the non-believers, for never quitting, for doing it right, for doing it first, for doing it best. With great appreciation, respect, and sincerity - simply - thanks. - J.G.G., VA
"Jenny and Ray, Just to let you know that 'Trail Life' was our number-one book for the year. Congratulations and thank you." - [One of the world's foremost retailers of outdoor gear]
"This morning there came a knock on the door. It was our mailman with a package. I immediately ripped it open to reveal Trail Life. OMG it blew me away. The pictures, the style, the information... You totally understated the book... Wow!!!" -Curtis W.
"Trail Life is of EXCELLENT quality. It appears to a novice hiker that it covers MANY, MANY aspects of thru-hiking. It discusses areas that someone without the years and miles of experience that Ray has would never even imagine come into play for their future adventures in the wild. The quality of the book and the photographs almost make it a fancy "coffee table" book, yet it contains very useful information." -Del S.
"It's been said that the mark of real genius is the ability to reduce something to its purest and simplest form. For example, Einstein with e = mc2 or Michelangelo, who, when asked to demonstrate his skill as an artist drew an absolutely perfect circle freehand in one stroke. Well, there's no question in my mind that Ray has done the same thing with backpacking. -Mike W.
I suspect what keeps most--if not all--of us coming back to the "Ray-Way" is a simple thing called TRUST! We know that what Ray & Jenny offer actually works, and does so most efficiently. Without reference to age, they are truly "elder statesmen" -- they've been there, done that and the rest of us benefit from those years of amassed wisdom. In a world of hyper consumerism, it isn't always easy to know who to trust." -Chris A.
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www.RayJardine.com Copyright © 1998-2024, All Rights Reserved |
| News | Click this link to find out what's happening. |
Ray's Cannonball Run
Coast to Coast in 42.5 hrs
"Hi Jenny and Ray, I just ordered your Blood Cleaner. I love your products (3 quilts, 3 books, 2 videos, a backpack and 2 stowbags), your instruction manuals and your website. I love your thorough and responsible planning and preparing for your trips and projects, your curiosity and love for nature (and each other) and that you share them with us. Thank you!" - Carsten, Germany
"I am 68 years old and have been camping since the year before I was born, and found your "Trail Life" book extremely informative and very enjoyable! I am reading it again for the second time!" Bob T., TX
"Thanks for the great products. I've really come to trust your equipment." Thomas C.
"I've been a devotee of Ray-Way hiking since I read Beyond Backpacking in about 1999. A few years ago I ordered and sewed a two-person tarp, and I've used it on Outward Bound trips in Colorado these last two summers. It has worked really well! The tarp has even sheltered three people on two courses; I know it's not designed for that, but we were all fairly short, and didn't mind scooting close together when it rained. Thank you for the high quality kit, and for the inspiration over the years!" Priscilla H., CO
"Yesterday I made a purchase for one of your backpack kits (the 2600 size). I will be using the pack to trek from France to northwestern Spain (Santiago de Compostella)." -Richard S., France
"I just returned from a trip along the JMT and my Ray-Way tarp worked fantastic! There was quite a bit of rain, thunder, lightning and hail but the tarp took it all in stride. My Ray-Way quilt also worked great!" -Darren O.
"I am a big fan of your wisdom, and hope to put it into practice soon, with this order! Thank you so much." -Michael S.
"I'm extremely grateful for your Blood Cleaner efforts and that you're sharing this technology." -Conall M.
"I'm 33 years old and grew up in California and am a huge fan of your books. It was your Beyond Backpacking that gave me the knowledge, inspiration and confidence to do two thru-hikes, including the PCT and Arizona Trail. Thank you so much." -Daniel D.
"My wife likes my quilt so much that she doesn't want it finished (i. e. close the foot end). So, I'll let her have that one and I'll make another one (this one with alpine insulation). We'll get to try both." Michael B., MD
"I am 14 years old and have recently finished a tarp kit from you. The tarp works great and I plan to use it during my scout troop's 50 miler on the Appalachian Trail. I am going to make a backpack kit next. Thank you for your great products." Ben B.
"I've made many of your products and was very happy with them during my month on the AT." -Ruth M.
"Thank you very much for these sewing kits--they're awesome!!!" Trent H.
"I have made your tarp (x2), net-tent (x2), quilt (x2), insulated hat (x4) and will order a couple of backpack kits very soon. I have gotten addicted to making my own gear." Matthew L., NZ
"Since making my 2200 in3 backpack last year, I have used it and LOVE it. The weight of the pack alone is so much better than my old packs that every time I take it out it makes me SMILE! I just ordered my quilt kit and will have that ready to go. Thanks for making wonderful projects and sharing such wonderful ideas with all of us." Isabel T., CO
"Set to work on the Ray-Way pack as soon as it arrived and managed to finish it in just over 24 hours! The instructions were incredibly detailed and the video helped when I needed a little extra clarification. Had the opportunity to take it for a 4 day trip on the Foothills trail in SC/NC and it performed amazingly well, my shoulders never tired even with a initial pack weight of 21lbs and my hips really appreciated the extra range of movement. Just ordered the tarp kit, excited to have a shelter that won't wear out so fast! Thanks so much" -Michael C.
"Beyond Backpacking and your's & Ray's philosophy have taught me so much. Can't wait to finally sew a quilt!" -David S.
"I have finished construction of the Ray-Way Backpack, and love it! And I read your book about your AT thru-hike. Fascinating and very insightful. Thanks again for all your insight and seriously great products." -Jason D.
"I just completed my shell pants and shorts kits. They both fit very well, and I enjoyed making them. Both fit comfortably loose, but not too loose, with adequate material for movement and sitting/squatting/kneeling in various positions on the ground. I REALLY like the fit and feel. I really enjoyed not having to cut the fabric to a pattern. Thanks for putting these kits out there. I really enjoyed them! I'll probably be making a set for my wife, too, and I'm actually pretty excited about the Sleeping Hat Kits. I like the idea of keeping my face cozy by breathing through the fabric. Thanks for all your work. My backpacking experience would be far less fulfilling without your books and kits. They've been very formative for me, on a lot of levels." - Kerry R., MI
"I've just returned from a six day hike of the Wonderland Trail around Mt. Rainier. I think that was the toughest ninety+ miler I've done but the weather was super and I had a really fun trip. I was glad to have a light setup using the Ray-Way backpack, tarp, spitfire, and quilt I've made from your kits." -Russell C., AZ
"I just am putting the finishing touches on the backpack kit. When I first read the instructions I was a bit overwhelmed and thought "What have I gotten into." However, by following the instructions one step at a time they made perfect sense. I don't think I have ever worked with another set of instructions that were as detailed and well thought out as yours. The pack gradually took shape before my eyes and the daunting process ended up being a series of small steps. Thanks for all the effort you put into the instructions and the kit. After completing the process I now see the genius in the order and progression. Again superb. I will be ordering some more Ray-Way kits in the future." Ron S., VA
"I really appreciate Ray and Jenny sharing what they know and producing the kits that allow me to experience the joy of making my own equipment and using it to experience the joy of being in the wild places. Thank you so much!" -Steve
"I took up backpacking but didn't get very far because I was not strong enough to carry all the recommended gear. But adopting your gear with the training I'm doing now, I'm looking forward to a lot of fun backpacking this summer. I'm loving my just completed quilt and am working on my tarp and spitfire. Thank you for your kindness in sharing your experiences and your encouraging attitude." Kristin B., VT
"I ordered your Tarp Book Essential, Trail Life, and a Tarp recently and have read the books cover to cover. They have been very thought provoking and have helped me look at things in a new way. One afternoon I slept in the tarp during a hard rain. I was nervous because I was in a bit of depression between two trees. I stayed completely dry without a drop of water inside the tarp. The water run-off just soaked into the ground. The next morning I made my breakfast inside the tarp on my alcohol stove. There was so much room and ventilation. I am having a paradigm shift and want to sew more gear." Ron S., VA
"Thanks a lot for your effort! You really offer the finest materials, we both LOVE the Quilts, the lightweight nylon fabrics in their beautiful colours, they have real mood improving qualities! And it's relaxing to follow your instructions, they're so well thought out! Thanks for your good work by which you also improve our lives." Kirsten G., Germany
"Having completed the wind pants kits (S, M, L, and XL) I can tell you they all fit their wearers without modifications. Thank you very much for having the kits available at such a reasonable cost. Having spent the cold months sewing, I am quite anticipating the pleasure of being out-and-about in the new gear." -Steve P.
"I am thru hiking the AT and now under my Ray-Way tarp and quilt in the middle of a thunderstorm 19 miles north of Harpers Ferry and am dry as toast. Lots of people have recognized the tarp as being a Ray-Way product so I must have done an ok job of sewing." James G.
"This is to let you know that I am forever grateful for what you have done for me, and always feel blessed that because of you my life was saved! I am such a lucky person coming across your path. God Bless both of you." -Sherry B.
"We have placed two orders for a trip to north Sweden, laponia. We have heard and read enough about your kits to be absolutely unconcerned about the high quality. Thank you so much for the opportunity to order such great stuff. We are completely amazed by your business." - Eddie and Helene P., Germany
"Just wanted to tell you what an impact you guys have had on my life. I read your book in 2009, then purchased the backpack kit (which I'm still amazed I was able to sew), and promptly thru-hiked the AT in 2010. Anyhow, the confidence you guys exude in your books, and reading about other adventures via your website over the years has been motivational. I just ordered a couple new copies of Trail Life to create that spark of adventure in my life again! Hiking the AT was the best experience of my life, it's been a real touchstone, and it started with your book." -Craig T.
"I just want to thank you for all the knowledge you've imparted for a great cause. Not only innovative and inspiring but also well written. You have changed my life. I sewed a Ray-way tarp and I'm hoping to use it on the AT this summer." Paul E., MN
"Jenny's AT hike inspires me to keep backpacking!" -Janice J.
"The order placed today will be my seventh backpack!! Two for myself, and others as gifts. Planning on the AT with ALL Ray-Way gear." Craig H., GA
"I absolutely love the two person deluxe quilt. It's amazing how light it is. I love how you can adjust how it's positioned over you, so you don't have a heat stroke like in a mummy bag. Thanks for putting these kits together and making them available." -Jason D.
"I completed my quilt last month. It turned out great! Just ordered 2 more. One for my son, and one for my son in law. I also ordered the tarp book, so that will be my next project! Thank you!" Will N., NZ
"Just a quick note to let you know I received the shell pants kit today and am looking forward to some serious sewing! Thank you for sending the package out so quickly." -Carol R.
"I really admire how you and Ray live your lives. And as a rock climbing engineer, Ray has been one of my heroes for many years. I even used spring loaded camming devices as the subject of a paper in engineering school. Thanks, also, for sharing your knowledge on lightweight backpacking. I’m grateful for all that you two have done to make backpacking more enjoyable." -Jason S.
"It has been extremely rewarding making my Ray-Way tarp and quilt on my own and can't wait to use them this summer!" -Jason T., MD
"I placed an order today for a 2600 ci backback. Thanks, I'm so excited to sew up my new pack." -Matt M., NJ
"I recently completed my first project - a 1P quilt made with Light fabric and the extra layer. It looks great, especially considering its the first time I've used a sewing machine! I had ordered the extra layer knowing that my wife sleeps cold, and figuring that the quilt would catch her eye immediately. I guessed right, so have ordered a 1P quilt kit for myself. So if you've got a list of delighted customers, put us at the top! We'll be ordering the backpack kits next. Thanks for all your efforts." -Don H.
"Trail Life has now been read twice and sports a forest of Post-It Notes for future reference. It's remarkable. Your your writing style is so approachable, which makes the sheer amount of information sink in much better. Kudos" -Guy M.
"The quilt kit just arrived and I've already sewn it together and slept in it in my back yard. I woke up and thought I would check the temperature and I was blown away to find out that it had dropped to 37F overnight. The quilt kept me absolutely toasty the whole night, even below the rated temperature and all I was wearing was a t-shirt and cotton pants. I had a blast making it and it weighs 1lb 9oz. Thank you so much for this great product." Tom C.
"I love Trail Life! I couldn't stop reading it. It is like reading candy." -Pamela A.
"I have been an admirer and customer of yours for nearly 20 years. Ray and Jenny, you have been a huge impact on my life." - Eric C.
"Thanks for offering the kits Ray. You have made my wife a garage widow with all the sewing I'm doing. We just spent 4 days in the Golden Trout Wilderness in the Sierra Nevada using your gear. I think we saved a hour a day just because we didn't have to mess with hipbelts." Rick R.
"Hello Ray, Jenny! I'm currently putting together several of your kits (I've finished the Quilt, Tarp and I'm about halfway through the Backpack), I can't stress enough how awesome the projects are. I've really gotten to enjoy sewing, and am extremely proud of the projects I've finished. Another bonus is that the instructions are so well thought out and detailed that you're practically given no room to mess up :) I've found that any delays in sewing were due to me not having read them carefully enough, thus spending time with the seam ripper :) And, the triple and quadruple stitching on the backpack shoulder straps almost made me feel like I was putting together a parachute harness! :)" Dan D., Prague, Czech Republic
"I finished making my beautiful quilt a few weeks ago and I am 100% pleased with the results. I work with an outfitter here in Tennessee and I can honestly say that nothing on our wall matches the performance of the quilts simple design and modest price." Jeff D.
"I bought an Apocalyptic Blood Cleaner from you. Wow! I have more energy, less reaction to allergies, less inflammation in general, and generally, I feel more alert. This is especially stunning since I had tick-borne diseases for 17 years - Lyme, Bartonella, and Babesia. I was backpacking in Scotland and got several bites. I have been feeling sluggish with some malaise the past year, and your Blood Cleaner is profoundly helping me shift that. Thank you so very much! You are both incredibly inspiring. I've followed you since the early days. My first full climbing rack in the 90s included Friends and I've used suggestions from Trail Life for both work (Outward Bound and wilderness adventures and personal adventures. I am grateful for the work you do and share with the rest of us." -Tracey B.
Hi Ray & Jenny! Hope you both are doing well. I was curious if you have an electronic version of Trail Life? I would love to upload it to my Kindle so I can read while on the trail. It would be a bit tough to carry around a book in the pack :)" -Derek U. (Ray replies: Thanks for your interest in Trail Life. We recommend reading the book at home, then when on the trail, try connecting better with nature: The wildlife, trees, plants, fragrances, the sounds - and so much more. When on the trial, nature is your teacher and entertainment. To find these things, you have to look for them. Thanks again and best wishes!)
"My husband and I have used the Blood Cleaner for over a year now and have testimonies to its effectiveness. I keep referring people to get their own." -Jill H.
"I'm excited to make the quilt, thanks so much. And thanks for all you and Ray do to inspire adventure!" -Tom B.
"I ordered and completed your tarp kit and am excited to try your other products! Now I'm ordering a backpack kit" -Garrett S.
"I recently purchased your quilt and tarp kits. I have finished the quilt, and it was easy to sew and is quite amazingly warm. Thanks so much and keep up the great work with your kits, the directions are clear and they are a good deal!" -Rick T.
"I used your tarp during a month this summer, in Scotland, and it was amazing! It is so much better than a tent. I was more connected with the nature (well, I had no Net, so I slept with spiders, snails and slugs!), it was a great experience. But now I want to order a net-tent, cause I'm going to explore the world during the next 2 years" - Elsa C., France
"I made a Ray-Way backpack kit in 2011 and after perhaps 6,000 miles of backpacking it is being retired, and I'm ordering another one. I absolutely love it and it is nice having a backpack that weighs less than my friends tiny day packs! Many thanks for the kits, they are brilliant." -Robin A., UK
"I just wanted to make a comment about the thread you sell. After playing with the bobbin tension per the instructions, this thread sews perfectly. It's stronger than store bought, and seems to feed better. Also, virtually no lint buildup in the bobbin case. I've sewed 2 tarps and several stuff sacks with it, and I am a lifelong customer." - Robert G., TX
"I completed my 2 person split-zip quilt kit, my third, this time using one layer of Woodland. My wife and I tried it out this weekend on a 2 day mountain bike-packing trip. It was absolutely perfect! We stayed comfortable and dry under our Ray Way tarp and Net-Tent as temps dropped from a humid 85F to a breezy 60F during the over night pop-up thunderstorms. Next on the list is completion of our new 2,200 in3 Ray Way packs that should work extremely well for our mountain bike-pack trips. Thanks for making these kits and your knowledge available!" Kerry R., MI
"While preparing for our FFT (first Ray Way!), few things have been as valuable as "Trail Life". Early in my studying the book, I started making notes. My notes quickly turned into pages, too large for a web post. So rather than trying to convince experienced outdoor enthusiasts to buy your book, I just started buying extra copies and gifting them. If I hadn't buddied around and climbed with Ray in Yosemite, I might find what the two of you have accomplished as somewhat unbelievable. For the less experienced adventurist, in a one-liner summary I would simply suggest the following: "Ray and Jenny provide not only useful products and trustworthy information to believe - but also, and more importantly - two people to believe IN." You can quote me on that. Thanks again for sharing your experiences, tips and inspirations. I love what you have done and are doing." Craig C., AK
"Thanks for all your shared knowledge." -Laurence C., Montreal
"Hi Its Quilt Addic Fred, This Will be my 3rd quilt with you. Thanks a million. The quilts that I have already made are all that I now use to sleep in!" -Fred W.
"I'm in the process of assembling my backpack kit that arrived last week, and I'm having a blast working on this project." -Isaac B.
I am happy to have found your products. I have a Ray-Way pack, tarp and trousers. They are all good. It is inspiring what is possible, when everything unnecessary is left off. Please stay in business for a while." -Eduard M., Germany
"I received the backpack kit and video, along with the quilt, etc. The video hits just the right spot for demonstration and explanation of the steps involved. I know it's not meant to replace the instructions, but seeing it done is a great help and worth every penny. Thank you again for doing the video, this way many people can take a sewing class with you. I also want to note that your instructions for the tarp kit are clear and easy to follow as well as helpful in teaching sewing techniques, i.e. a balanced stitch and different types of seams. Needless to say, what you provide at any cost is a bargain, so much gratitude to you and Jenny." -Steve B.
"I just placed an order for some of your awesome thread. I'm about to run out and realize now I should have followed your advice and ordered more than one spool! oh well, I ordered 3 this time because I can't imagine using any other thread for any of my projects ever again." Joel C., IN
"I've purchased tarp, backpack and quilt kits a few months ago. I love the gear I've made so far!" -Mike R.
"Dear Ray and Jenny, Thank you very much for your book "Trail life" and videos "Caper" and "2010 AT Gear" - something excellent to read and to see! Now my wife and I would like to order a bundle of Ray-Way products. With best wishes" Michael V., Moscow, Russia
"Your kits are perfect. I have never sewed before but was able to follow the instructions and get a lot of praise from friends and family on the finished projects. My hiking buddy and I have been going every other day on hikes to train for our upcoming trip. We are having a blast together. Thank you again for making my life richer and fuller." Randall B.
"Made a quilt last fall, it is fantastic!! Can't wait to make the Tarp (ordered today). Thank you so much!" Matt L.
"Ray-Way gear is hands-down the best gear a wilderness traveler can carry." - James G.
"I Just wanted to let you know that I appreciate tremendously what you do with your knowledge and products, which totally transformed my and my wife's backpacking methodology. The ideas we learned extend into the rest our lives far further than we'd ever have expected, as we apply much of Ray-Way philosophy to our every day lives. To date I've made 2 Quilts, a 2-person net tent (I added a zipper) for my Ray-Way tarp, 2 bat wings, 1 backpack, several storage/stow bags, not to mention countless repairs and modifications to existing gear, all from the kits, books, knowledge, philosophy garnered from Ray-Way products. I hope you continue to provide your guidance and kits - much needed in our over-consumption driven society." Kerry R., Michigan
"My 2nd alpine quilt is finally coming to its end of life, so I've bought my third quilt kit to sew." -Curtis W.
I'm super excited to make my own pack! I actually just bought a very expensive ultralight pack, and ended up on you website while researching hip belts. Your philosophy resonated with me and the website made me feel empowered to actually make my own gear! I love making my own things; I built my bike (including the wheels!), I build my own light fixtures, but sewing always seemed out of my reach. Now I feel like I can actually do it! I will return the expensive pack and have money left over for more adventure! I also feel like I'll be able to create my own gear and customize it just for me. Anyway, thanks a bunch, all the best, and happy hiking!" -Todd H.
"I ordered an insulated hat kit for my husband. I made my hat over 15 years and I never leave on a backpack trip without it. I definitely agree with the assessment provided by Mike G on your website -- it is a really an "understated item." -Carol R.
"Loved Trail Life and had to buy one for my backpacking buddy so she would stop borrowing mine." Heather R.
"First, a big thank you for all you've done for the outdoor community. Your lives have inspired me for many years. Love your books and hope you write those you've talked about. Maybe Jenny could do more writing too. I enjoyed what she shared about her solo hike of the AT. Her perspective could add more depth to those amazing adventures. Also, more about your lives now. I look forward to the News section and your homestead. Thanks again for everything." -Dale F.
"Now that my son has outgrown the pack I made for him almost 2 years ago, he's sewing a bigger one. I'm sewing a higher capacity one for myself at the same time, so we are going step by step together. This is his second sewing project, having started learning on a quilt stowbag. We're going slowly, and we're very thankful for the excellent instructions you guys have developed. Thanks Ray and Jenny." Mike W., CA
"Thank you for your wonderful kits. They are much more than a weekend project, they are passports to freedom - spiritual, physical, and material." Elleyne B.
"I finished the pct in 2021. The Ray-Way backpack, net tent and tarp held up perfectly even with my poor sewing. Thanks for making the hike possible at a price I could afford." -Barry R.
"Just crossed the Brooks Range 170 miles. Used Ray-Way gear & methods exclusively. We found the Ray-Way gear better suited for navigating the challenges of the Arctic landscape. Our best memories were being all cozy & warm under our tarp & quilt, in a downpour, with all the exploding sights, colors and smells of the late summer tundra all around. Ah the places my homemade gear has taken me! Many thanks!" -James G. AK
"Dear Ray and Jenny, First off, thanks for putting together such great products. I just finished sewing the big stack of kits I ordered a few months ago - tarp, spitfire, quilt, batwing, and stowbags for all. I'm pleased to report that they all came out beautiful and professional. I'm an experienced seamstress, but having never sewed with these types of materials, I really appreciated the sewing tips. As an engineer, I found the instructions for all your kits to be a refreshing departure from the norm. The kits are for a through-hike of the PCT this summer, and I am pleased to report that after finishing all the kits, you have a new convert. I've just placed a second order for another tarp and a 2p net-tent, because my husband decided to come with me. He's going to sew the kits himself. :) Thanks again!" -Gwynneth S., AZ
"I've been a fan of yours for over 10 years, I've section hiked over 300 miles on the AT largely with your gear, countless trips to Colorado and California on the PCT, and my wife and I are just die hard fans of what you do and the unique position you're in to give back to the outdoor community. Thanks for all you do." - Robert G., TX
I like to consider myself a witness of Nature rather a great adventurer, but anyway, I've ordered and sewed one of your 1P tarps and I must say that it is an essential for me now !!! It rocks !! I am french and I couldn't find better shelter." -Alexis B., France
"By sewing my own gear from the kits that you have meticulously designed and refined, I not only now have gear that is of the highest caliber but I also now have the skills to make this gear myself." David d.
"I ordered a Ray-Way Tarp, and I'm thrilled with my new found ability to sew a flat-felled seam. I can't believe it. Though to be fair, I did it only after a bit of cussing. Its not that pretty, but its functional and I'm so proud. Thanks for what you do." -Leah B.
"I just finished a very successful weeklong shakedown hike on the AT, north out of Harpers Ferry. I was extremely happy with my tarp, spitfire, 2800 backpack and two-layer alpine quilt. I wouldn't change a thing. Using products that I made with my own hands brought me so much pleasure on the trail. And the fact that they all functioned so well and made my hiking and camping so much easier, completed the picture." -Ruth M.
"I am very happy with the pack, quilt, new tarp, and spitfire that I made last winter, used them all this past summer. As it turned out the north cascades had a somewhat heavy bug season this past July and I was very happy to have the spitfire. I was really impressed with the functionality of it, as well as the ease of going in and out of the door. Once again a top notch product that just works and works well." -Scott Williamson
"I have read "Trail Life" many times. Now my girlfriend is reading it aloud to us at night before we go to bed. Several months ago, we started training for the PCT. You two inspire us! We hope you are doing well." -Todd G.
"I've used Ray-Way gear in the past on the PCT. Unfortunately, we had a fire and lost all of our camping gear and need to replace most of it. So my partner and I both want to order quilts, both heavy and at least one light one." -Maryn F.
"We used our tarp and the net-tent on our 100+ mile trip of traversing the Uintas in Utah. Both were great and went a long way to lightening our loads. The tarp saved us from several severe soakings on the last few days. We were able to set up the tarp quickly and get out of the rain. Thanks for everything!" John W., UT
"I've made and happily used a number of your kits on my AT thru hike, and all of them have been fabulous. My backpack is 10 years old and has only one repair! So appreciate that you make your kits available!" -Noah R.
"I use Ray-Way camping gear on bike tours. I am really proud of my backpack! Thank you!" -Francois L., Québec
"I always recommend your Ray-Way tarps and backpacks and we used them for the 650km Australian Alps Walking Track in very late autumn in Australia: They worked wonderfully." -Phillip B., Australia
"Thank you so much for all you do. This will be my third tarp kit along with a bomber hat, knife kit, double quilt and double net tent I have made. For someone previously scared of a sewing machine it's quite something and would not have been impossible without your encouragement and kits." -Edward W., UK
"Thank you for the wonderful customer service. It has been great getting to know the "Ray Way" through your website and "Trail Life" book. You have certainly gained a convert!" -Andy N.
"Ray and Jenny, I've been a long time fan of yours and have embraced the Ray-Way style." -Dave B.
"I have to say again Ray and Jenny, how much I love using my 2200 Ray-Way backpack." -David DeL.
"I recently ordered your 2 person quilt kit, and found the instructions and materials to be of superior quality. The project took a little longer than expected, but the results have been well worth the time and effort. The quilt fits perfectly. As for performance, we hurried off the very next weekend to try it out. The weight savings was incredible, weighing less than one of our traditional bags. The trip was a bit blustery and got down into the 30's but we noticed no loss of comfort. Thank you for such an innovative idea."-Jason M.
"I'm super excited to get started sewing this 2-Person XL Quadratic Net-Tent together!" -Jeremy H.
I keep getting all sorts of emails from companies selling new light weight backpacks, and they all just remind me of Ray-Ways. I feel like you two started the whole thing that is now like sooooo everywhere. and I hope you get praise and thanks and acknowledgement of all you offered to all of us… back when we were all carrying around our houses on our backs…. And you enlightened us. I learned sooo much from you both.. and sooo appreciate it because I might be able to just keep on hiking… thank you.. truly.. and appreciatively." -Lynnie W.
"I just received the order placed earlier this week, and I wanted to say thank you. Thank you for the good service, taking care to ensure your products are high quality and that orders exceed expectations. Thank you for the kits, which have enabled me to learn new skills and rethink what I really need in the outdoors. This order included a third backpack kit, for my growing son, 10, who will be taking the lead in sewing it this time. I would not be able to pass on this skill if not for encouraging people to "break out of the mold of imagined inabilities". It is greatly appreciated." Mike W., CA
"Our ($800) order is large because we figured we might as well just jump into the Ray-way with both feet. It is perhaps a bit rash to order everything at once, but we've read through your website thoroughly and from what we've read, to use the Ray-way backpacks we need to pare down our shelter and sleeping bags, so we want to go ahead with the whole deal and try it out as it was meant to be used. I don't anticipate any trouble with the sewing. And your testimonials are numerous and highly positive, so we are pretty confident! We're looking forward to getting started on the sewing and to using our new lightweight gear on the next adventure!" -Catherine & Dan 0., BC
"I'm working on backpack kit, the instructions are easy to follow. This is my forth Ray-Way project and I feel like I can now sew anything." -John K.
"I am interested in long-distance hiking. I am very impressed by your life style and experience. I especially value your hints and advice not to conquer mother Earth but to somehow immerse. Which leads me to my question: Is it possible to immerse in or to deeply connect with mother Earth (like you describe in the documentation "Wilderness Walks") on prominent long distance trails (like AT, PCT and so) or it's not as these trails are too crowded?" -Dr. Stephan R., Germany [Ray replies: Yes, it is entirely possible. These trails cover vast expanses, so the hikers tend to be spread out. So while hiking hour after hour, you may not see too many people. And the connection happens in your mind, and can happen anywhere if your mind is open for it.]
"Thanks for all you have done for ultra-light backpacking. I look forward to building your backpack kit!" -Dave M.
"Hey guys, I sewed all your gear and love it!" -Casey A.
"Thank you so much for your wonderful kits and products! I have completed an alpine quilt, a tarp, a Spitfire, a batwing, four stowbags, and a single layer alpine quilt. I still have a couple of other kits to complete, but I consider my basic needs met...and grandly! I just took them one step at a time, and the projects kept on rolling out." - Ruth M
"I've been sewing up a storm with all the stay at home time. I'm looking forward to using all my new Ray-Way gear later this year." -Mark P.
"I just finished a week hiking in the Sedona AZ area. My Ray-Way gear worked great. I have always loved to backpack, and now I use only my home-made Ray-Way gear and I love it. I first bought all the Long Option Kits. but I just ordered all new kits without the Long Option. So I will have a choice which size gear I will use, whether hiking and camping solo or with someone else." -Peter H., HoneyBee Rescue, San Diego, CA
"I am on my second tarp kit from you guys and my first net-tent, and still happily using a sleeping quilt I made from a Ray-Way kit." -Mikela S.
"Greetings Ray/Jenny, Got out for another AT trip. Hiked Damascus to Bland VA with a friend. We Tarp camped each of the 7 nights on the trail. Backpack, quilt, net-tent all helped make for a terrific trip, as I knew they would." Craig H.
"I have have been using the Ray-Way Blood Cleaner for four years, and it's made an important addition to my health and well being. I have had various issues over the years, and BC seems to do the trick every time. I have really enjoyed experimenting with this device." -Andrew F., CA
"My partner and I recently hiked the appalachian trail and used a Ray Jardine homemade tarp for the journey. We love that tarp so much, it was our home." -Rainbow
I started my PCT thru hike with my Ray-Way backpack, quilt, shell pants, sleep hat and tent stakes and they all worked great. Thanks for all you have done for the backpacking community." -Scott C.
"I have bought several of your kits and found them to be excellent!" -Andrew B.
"Thank you so much for sharing your products with us and encouraging us to create! So many lessons about life learned by sewing." -Jim D.
"You know, I used to be in awe of the lifestyle the two of you have lived, and later, I was impressed with the thought processes and the creativity involved in the products that you created to solve you ultralight problems.., but now I'm just impressed with your excellent customer service. Thank you for your initiative." -Dave B.
"Hi Jenny and Ray, I really enjoyed meeting you at Patriot Hills, Antarctica when you started your expedition to the South Pole, and I was fascinated to see that Ray wrote a book "Extreme Fun" about your expedition." -Steve Jones, Expeditions Manager, Antarctic Logistics.
"This is our first sewing project, and we are having a lot of fun with it." Larissa G.
"Several years ago I ordered a quilt. It has been doing its job, keeping me warm on my AT section hiking in Spring." -Primo F.
"I’ve never met you or Ray, but you are both a blessing to me! I’m also a rock climber, so I read a lot about Ray years ago. I’m sorry to say after using my Ray-Way gear for several years, I tried dyneema tents for a while. I don’t like tents. The Ray-Way tarp is the best shelter I’ve ever had. So I’m back. Thank you so much for all you both do!" -Orvil F.
Given Ray's engineering background, the Blood Cleaner is more credible than units from fly by night operators." - Frank V., ID
"I have enjoyed making you kits over the years and just want to say thank you for such a great products." - Bruce R.
"I recently finished a quilt kit--thank you so much--it works great! Now that I've made one quilt, the next one will be a piece of cake. Thanks!" -Steven B.
"Hi Ray-Way! I am finishing up the backpack and I love it so far! Thank you...I may make another for fun ;-) now that I know how to sew ;-) But next I'm going to move to the quilt." -Steph C.
"Thanks for the great kits. I have completed the tarp, quilt, hat, backpack, and a knife kit and have ordered a net tent kit. I must say that the instructions in your kits are bombproof. They are extremely well written and make the process easy. You simply do one simple thing at a time. My son and I spent a week on the trail in Shenandoah National Park. The backpack and tarp performed exceptionally. We even weathered a couple of blistering thunderstorms and stayed completely dry. We used many principles and ideas from Trail Life to keep our packs light." Ron S., VA
"I am finishing up the Ray-Way backpack and I love it! I may make another for fun, now that I know how to sew. But first I am going to move to the quilt." -Steph C.
"I made a order back in August and have been slowly working through all the kits. The instructions are great and very clear! I am placing another order for more Ray-Way kits. Thank you!" -David T
"We love all our Ray-Way gear!" -Brian K.
"I really enjoyed making my tarp, net tent, and sleeping quilt. I've been rereading Trail Life and the Tarp Book Essential as well. Thank you for making sewing so easy and fun. I'll be working next on my backpack next! I plan to be on the High Sierra Trail this July." - Aika M. CA
"I am a guide all over North America and I use your designs daily and talk about your Kits with most of my guests. I currently use two different Ray-Way backpack sizes, a solo and a two person quilt, a tarp, and have adopted many of your backpacking techniques and aesthetics. THEY MAKE SENSE, WORK BETTER and LAST LONGER! Thank you so much for all of your beautiful work!" -Jeremy C.
Profile of Ray Jardine
Profile
Profile of Ray Jardine, author: Trail Life, The Ray-Way Tarp Book Essential, Beyond Backpacking, Siku Kayak, The PCT Hiker's Handbook. inventor: "Friends" rock climbing gear. Long-distance hiker, designer and builder of aerospace composite kayaks, Baja and Arctic Alaska sea kayaker, Canadian Barrenlands canoeist, cross-country hang glider pilot, round-the-world sailor, free-fly skydiver, and more.
Extreme Fun
Adventures in Antarctica
After a year and a half of training and preparations, we went to Antarctica. Starting from near the coast, we skied 57 days to the South Pole. Along the way encountered fierce winds, ultra cold temperatures, and rough ice. We dragged our gear behind us in sleds containing enough food for a month. At the half-way point we resupplied with a food drop. Reaching the South Pole in another month, we flew back to the starting point.
Rowing Across the Atlantic Ocean
Rowing Across the Atlantic Ocean in the 23-foot Rowboat "Atlantic Caper" - No sails, No Motor, just Two Pairs of Oars. "A Husband and Wife Team with a Desire for Adventure and an Intense Determination to Succeed."
Global Voyage
Aboard the Ketch Suka
Three years Sailing Around the World aboard the ketch SUKA (Seeking UnKnown Adventures). From San Diego we spent a year and a half sailing through the South Pacific to Australia. After sailing north behind the Great Barrier Reef, we crossed the Indian Ocean to South Africa. Then navigating across to South America and through the Caribbean, we passed through the Panama Canal and then followed the coast back to home port.
Pearl Four
Our fourth long-distance thru-hiking adventure: the Appalachian Trail in 1993, Springer Mountain to Katahdin. 2,100 miles in 2 months & 28 days. This was where we developed our home-made lightweight backpacks and camping quilt.
Saga of the Sea Tub
Northern Paddling Adventure #1
A 100-Day, 3,300-mile Kayak Voyage from Anacortes, Washington Through the Inside Passage Along Coasts of British Columbia and Southwest Alaska - 1,100 miles to Skagway; then Portage the Chilkoot Trail to the First Ice-Free Lake, 100 miles total; then Paddle the Yukon River 2,000 miles to the Bering Sea, and 7 miles Back to Village of Emmonak.
Sea-kayaking the Coast of Arctic Alaska
Northern Paddling Trip #3
We returned to Shishmaref the summer of 1996. The ensuing kayaking journey proved to be more interesting and rewarding than we possibly could imagined. It was also the most difficult and dangerous, but by then we felt we had developed the appropriate skills, and were better equipped to handle the conditions. The weather had turned genuinely cold, with icy gales and considerable snowfall. Some days, while paddling among the floes, frozen sea spray glistened on the kayak's deck; some days snow. Yet even this part of the trip was enchanting. The expanse of virgin coastline, the beauty of the sparkling sea and its ice floes, the wildlife and the tundra adorned in its fall colors, and the jagged mountains glistening with fresh snow - all were beyond description.
Canoeing Coppermine River & Pikes Portage
Northern Paddling Adventure #8
Story of Ray and Jenny Jardine's Coppermine canoe trip, summer 2005, Yellowknife to Kugluktuk, paddling 960 miles in 39 days. Started in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories Canada, paddled the Great Slave Lake, carried the outfit over Pike's Portage, worked up to Clinton-Colden and Aylmer lakes, then paddled down the Coppermine River and finished at the native village of Kugluktuk on the coast of the Arctic Ocean. 44 portages totaling 15 mi. It was an unforgettable experience across an amazingly vast wilderness area.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail #2
Thru-hike #6
A Solo Thru-Hike of the Appalachian Trail (AT) in 2009, Mid Season.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail #3
Thru-hike #7
A Third Thru-Hike of the Appalachian Trail (AT), Solo and Early Season. This hike was characterized by deep snow in the Smokies, lots of blow-downs along the full length of trail, and a great deal of solitude but also very enjoyable hiking in beautiful surroundings.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail #4 (part 1/3)
AT Section Hiking
Hiking Adventure #8, the Appalachian Trail (#4) early-season.
Canoeing the Back River
Northern Paddling Adventure #6
Ray and Jenny paddled a canoe across the Barrenlands of Sub-arctic Canada, From Sussex Lake, padding down the Back River, up the Meadowbank River, over the Divide and down to the hamlet of Baker Lake. From the book Canoeing Canada's Northwest Territories, "many experienced paddlers consider the Back to be the most challenging river in the NWT.
Hello America Bicycle Tour
Bicycling Adventure #2
Hello America: Ray & Jenny Jardine peddled a tandem bicycle twice across the US, sea to sea, round-trip from Arizona.
Cruising The Cardon Coast
Baja Sea-Kayaking Adventure #9
Jenny and I Paddled and Sailed our "Sea Tub" (a highly-modified collapsible double kayak) from San Felipe to La Paz, in 34 days along the coast of Baja. This trip took place the Year Following our 3,300 mile kayak trip to the Arctic, and immediately following our 10-day hike of the John Muir Trail and 12 days float trip on the Yellowstone River.
Bicycling the TransAmerica Trail
Bicycling Adventure #3
After completing two thru-hikes of the Appalachian Trail, Ray cycled across the country, coast to coast, generally following the "TransAmerica Trail" Cycling Route. Peddling thorough 11 states, the many and often-steep hills were challenging, but the scenery along this route was very beautiful. Near the end of the trip Jenny joined Ray on a borrowed bike, and they finished the journey at saltwater's edge on Chesapeake Bay.
Climbing Huascaran
Climbing Nevado Climbing Huascaran, Peru's highest at 22,205' in 1969. I took a month's leave from my job as an aerospace engineer to join a mountain climbing expedition to the Peruvian Andes. I was super active in the outdoors before, as a proficient climber and mountaineer, but this was the trip that started my lifestyle as a full time adventurer. With Gene and Betsy White, Mark Bostwick, and John Larson.
Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail #1
Thru-hike #1
The Pacific Crest Trail: Campo to Manning Provencial Park through California, Oregon and Washington. After sailing around the world, we wanted to get back in touch with the land, so we hiked the PCT. This was our first thru-hike, of many.
Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail #2
Thru-hike #2
Long-Distance Hiking Adventure #2, - the Pacific Crest Trail, Campo to Manning Provencial Park. 2,700 Miles in 125 Days. Route goes from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon and Washington.
Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail #3
Thru-hike #5
Our fifth long-distance hiking adventure, 1994: the Pacific Crest Trail, PCT: Manning Provencial Park to Campo. 2,700 miles in 96 days. Route goes from Canada to Mexico, through Washington, Oregon and California. This was a south-bound hike, starting with much snow slogging through the North Cascades and finishing in the hot and thirsty deserts. It was our second light-weight hike, and our the first thru-hike to use a tarp rather than a tent.
Sea Kayaking the Western Coast of Alaska
Northern Paddling Adventure #2
A 48 day journey in our home-made sea-kayak "Headwind Magnet" (aka Tempest) Along the West Coast of Alaska. We started at St Marys Near the Terminus of the Yukon River, and paddled 100 miles down the Yukon River to Norton Sound. We then continued across the Bering Sea along the west coast of Arctic Alaska all the way around the sound to Nome, and farther to the Inuit village of Shishmaref.
Himalayan Adventures
Climbing the Khumbu Icefall
A Month of Acclimatizing to the High Altitudes, Trekking to Everest Base Camp, and Climbing to 22,000 ft. on Mount Everest via the famous Khumbu Icefall and up to Camp 2 below the Lhotse face.
Paddling on the Brink
Baja Sea-Kayaking Adventure #3
Ready to begin, we feel suddenly alone. Immensely alone, to say nothing about committed and vulnerable. A wave of misgiving floods over me, and for the first time in months of planning and preparation the prospects of a successful outcome seem absurd. I utter those classic words aloud: "What have we gotten ourselves into this time?" Having heard this many times before, Linda breaks into a grin. And with that we shove our kayak into the sea and begin our paddling adventures.
Canoeing Fulton Chain of Lakes
Canoe Trip #1
On a Break Between Standard and B2B Classes, Ray and Jenny Rode a Bus to Upstate New York and Rented a Canoe. Spent 12 Days Canoeing the Fulton Chain of Lakes in the Adirondacks of upstate New York, Along the Historic Fulton Chain of Lakes. In past times this route was plied by fur traders, at a time when the principle means of wilderness transportation was by canoe. Having recently sea-kayaked 1,440 miles of Arctic Alaskan coastline, we were in fairly good physical condition. However, neither of us knew how to paddle a canoe. However, by trip's end we had figured out how to handle the canoe fairly well.
Canoeing the Kazan River
Northern paddling Adventure #7
The Story of Ray and Jenny Jardines' canoe trip down the Kazan River, summer 2001, paddling 560 miles in 25 days Across the Barrenlands of sub-arctic Canada. A key feature with these trips is the urge to explore and discover, traveling day after day without seeing another person. The beauty of the Barrenlands, its lakes and rivers are incomparable. We love the feeling of openness that goes on and on for hundreds of miles. The feeling that we have practically the whole river - all 560-miles of it - to ourselves. Every stopping place is new, different and fresh. What a privilege to have so much land to explore and enjoy.
IUA Hiking & Biking Adventure
Bicycling Trip #1
IUA Hike & Bike, Canada to Mexico Through Idaho, Utah and Arizona. After Hiking for a Month Through Idaho, Generally Along the Rugged Idaho/Montana Border, we came down of the mountains to the plains of northern Utah only to meet our nemesis - a lack of drinkable water caused by cattle pollution. After a gruling 24 hours without water, we turned back and managed to reach a town. Rather than abandon the journey, we bought mountain bikes at a x-mart for $149 each and switched to riding. What we did not expect was how much fun riding these bikes was! And even though the bikes were less than optimal, we averaged around 75 miles a day, with a high of 95 miles.
Greenland Adventures
Sledging and SnowKiting
Greenland Adventures: 17 days of Sledging and Kite Skiing, Pulling Sleds on the Ice Cap of Greenland, training for the upcoming trip to the South Pole.
Hiking the Continental Divide Trail
Thru-hike #3
Our third long-distance thru-hike, the Continental Divide Trail, CDT: Waterton Lakes Canada to Las Palmas Mexico. 2,500+ miles in 118 days. Route goes through the central Rockies from Canada to Mexico, through Montana Idaho Wyoming Colorado and New Mexico.
Climbing Vinson Massif
Vinson Massif is the Highest Mountain in Antarctica. In the Wake of our South Pole Trip, I Didn't Want to Leave Antarctica Quite Yet, and Climbing the Highest Mountain Appealed to me Greatly. Never mind that I didn't have climbing boots and gear. I bought or borrowed them, and joined an incoming climbing group. The climb was a success, and in retrospect I might have been the first person to ski to the South Pole and Climb Antarctica's Highest Mountain in a Single Trip. Never mind that, it was a lot of fun!
2014-07 GDRx2 Alberta
Motorcycling Adventure #14
Ray's 28-Day Motorcycle Trip Along the Great Divide Route (GDR) (Continental Divide) from Antelope Wells, New Mexico to Banff, AB Canada, and Return along much the Same Route.
Moto-America
Motorcycling Adventure #1
Motorcycling Twice Across the US, from Arizona to Georgia, then North to Ride the Tail of the Dragon and Blue Ridge Parkway, then West to California and back to Arizona.
Moto-Prudhoe
Motorcycling Adventure #2
Motorcycling to New Mexico to Join the Great Divide Route (GDR) at Silver City. Then Following the GDR in General Terms North to Montana, then once in Canada visiting Banff and Jasper National Parks. Then on to Fairbanks Alaska and the Dalton Highway "Haul Road" to Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay at the Arctic Ocean. The return trip took me south back through Canada and Vancouver Island, then followed the coast down to Southern CA, then back to Arizona.
Jennys First Moto Trip
Motorcycling Adventure #3
Jenny's first motorcycling road trip, 750 miles in 4 days to Colorado and back to Arizona.
Moto-Baja
Motorcling Trip #4
A Ten-Day Motorcycle Trip Down into Mainland Mexico, Ferrying Across the Sea of Cortez to La Paz, then Return North along the Baja Peninsula to California.
Moto-Mexican-Dragon
Motorcycling Adventure #5
A Six-Day Trip, Motorcycling through Mainland Mexico.
Motorcycling Canyonlands
Motorcycling Adventure #6
A 7-Day Motorcycle Trip to Monument Valley, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches National Parks.
Motorcycling the Four Corners
Motorcycling Adventure #7
A 20-Day Solo Motorcycle Trip Around the Country, Touching the States of Florida, Maine, Washington and California.
North through Sierras, South along the Pacific Coast.
11 days, 3,282 miles
Motorcycling CA Mountains & Coast
Motorcycling Adventure #9
An 11-Day Motorcycle Trip along the Length of California, North Through the Sierras then South along the Pacific Coast.
Motorcycling TAT-CO
Motorcycling Adventure #10
A Solo Motorcycle Trip along the Colorado TAT.
Motorcycling the Western TAT
Motorcycling Adventure #11
A 15-Day Solo Motorcycle Trip along the TAT Through Utah, Nevada, and Oregon.
2014-09 GDRx2 Columbus-Roosville
Motorcycling Adventure #15
Ray's 20-Day Motorcycle Trip Along the Great Divide Route (GDR) from Columbus at the Mexican border to Roosville at the Canadian Border, and Return along much the Same Route.
Flight of the Errant Torpedoes
Baja Sea-Kayaking Adventure #4
Having learned much from my previous struggles in Baja, this trip proved to be one of my finest. John and Al were new to kayaking, but in the ensuing days and weeks they became highly proficient. South of Loreto John became inadvertently separated from Al and me, and spent the next five days paddling solo. We found each-other just ten miles from La Paz.
Dont Break Rule #1
Baja Sea-Kayaking Adventure #8
Ed and I Paddled Single Kayaks Nearly the Full Length of Baja. Ed had never kayaked before, but he was a fast learner and had an experienced partner :) We made an excellent team and had a most enjoyable trip.
Down the Mackenzie River & Along the Arctic Coast
36 days, 1,175 miles
Sea Kayaking Mackenzie River & Arctic Coast
Northern Paddling Adventure #4
Ray and Jenny paddled their homemade sea-kayak "Nunaluk" down Canada's Mackenzie River, 975 miles in 24 days from Ft. Providence to Inuvik. Then they float-planed to their turn-around point of the previous summer on the coast, then paddled to Tuk - 200 miles in 12 days. East of Tuk the ice was solid and looked like it would stay that way. So they switched to plan B: paddling one of the inland rivers.
Canoeing Thelon River
Northern paddling Adventure #5
Continuing Northern paddling trip #4: Thwarted by polar pack ice on the coast, Ray and Jenny switched to plan B, which was to paddle one of the inland rivers. We tried to air cargo the kayak to Yellowknife, but after waiting in Yellowknife a week for the yak to arrive (got in a ton of great hiking) we arranged to truck the yak home. Unfortunately most of our gear was in the kayak. We went to the Wal-Mart and bought a cheap canoe, paddles, life jackets and rubber boots. And at a grocery we bought a month's supply of food. The next morning (July 25) we float planed to Lynx lake, the headwaters of the Thelon River. Then we paddled 575 miles down the Thelon in 24 days to the Inuit hamlet of Baker Lake, near Hudson Bay.
Adventures on Mt. Aconcagua
In the wake of my Antarctica trips (skiing to the South Pole and Climbing Vinson Massif) I wasn't quite ready to return home, so I stopped by Aconcagua to give it a try. I had a great time, but discovered that I wasn't acclimatizing to the high altitudes fast enough, no doubt due to the extreme energy drain of skiing to the pole. Nevertheless I climbed to 22,025 feet, (within 300 meters of the summit).
Argentina Adventures
Jenny and I Spent Two Months Climbing in the Andes, out of Mendoza, Argentina. We started in the Cordón del Plata Region, and lived and climbed at high altitudes, up to 21,000 ft.
4,000 Miles of Dirt
Motorcycling Adventure #8
Ray's 18-Day Motorcycle Trip Along the Continental Divide Route (CDR) from Colorado to the Canadian Border, and Return along the Same Route.
Father's Memorial Ride
Motorcycling Adventure #12
2013-07 GDRx2 tagalong
Motorcycling Adventure #13
Ray's 20-Day Motorcycle Trip Along the Great Divide Route (GDR) (Continental Divide) from Arizona to the Canadian Border, and Return along the Same Route.
2015-09 GDRx2-FW
Motorcycling Adventure #16
Ray's 30-Day Motorcycle Trip Along the Great Divide Route (GDR) and Forever W., to the Canadian Border and Return.
2015-11-Baja
Motorcycling Adventure #17
A Nine-Day Motorcycle Trip into Baja.
2018-10-GDR-Gravellies
Motorcycling Adventure #18
Motorcycle Trip Along the Great Divide Route (GDR) and Forever W., and Return.
2019-09 GDR Nisus
Motorcycling Adventure #19
Motorcycle Trip Along the Great Divide Route (GDR) and Forever W., and Return.
Trip to Kingman
Motorcycling Adventure #20
Motorcycle Trip to Kingman on the LT.
Iron Butt SS-1000
Motorcycling Adventure #21
Iron Butt SS-1000 Motorcycle Ride on the LT.
Hiking the John Muir Trail
Ten Days Hiking the John Muir Trail (JMT) Through the Sierra Mountains of California.
Skis, Wind and Kites
Snowkiting Adventures
Wind, Kites and Skis: Ray and Jenny Jardine's Snowkiting Adventures.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail #4 (part 2/3)
AT Section Hiking
Hiking Adventure #9, the Appalachian Trail (#4b) early-season.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail #4 (part 3/3)
AT Section Hiking
Hiking Adventure #9, the Appalachian Trail (#4c).
Building a Shop
Building a Large Shop, Doing Most of the Work Ourselves.
Living in the Wilds
Primitive Skills
Primitive Skills, Living in the Wilds, Making a Debris Hut, Bow Drill Fire.