EP 694: The Intersection of Trail Running, Backpacking and Fastpacking

Trail Runner Nation

What happens when a love for the outdoors leads to launching an outdoor gear company and then running your first ultra-marathon?

In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we’re joined by Tayson Whittaker, founder and CEO of Outdoor Vitals, to dive into the world of fastpacking, trail running, and backpacking. Tayson shares his inspiring journey of launching Outdoor Vitals, a company committed to providing high-quality outdoor gear. He reflects on his love for exploring remote areas, disconnecting from the digital world, and how his passion for backpacking evolved into a desire to push his limits through trail running.

We also explore Tayson's transition into ultra running, including the challenges he faced in his first 75K race, his experience pacing at the Moab 240, and how these trials sparked his goal of completing a 100-mile race. Throughout the conversation, Tayson emphasizes the importance of building confidence through experience, using the right gear, and embracing the mental and emotional benefits of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a runner, backpacker, or fastpacker, this episode is packed with insights on stepping out of your comfort zone and growing through new challenges in the wilderness.

• Watch Tayson talk about his 10 year journey with Outdoor Vitals
• Tayson's documentary of his first 100-mile completion
• Follow Outdoor Vitals on Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTube
• Check out their podcast, LiveUltraLight

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• True Nutrition
• Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app
• Amazfit - get 15% off their new T-Rex 3 ⤵️