Episode 150 | Usability

This is Part 2 (of 4) in Principles of Outdoor Gear Design and focuses on the usability of outdoor gear. Ryan Jordan examines usability through the lens of analog design principles and the relationship between gear, the person using it, the task, and the conditions. Trekking-pole adjustments and a watch's rotating bezel illustrate how physical representation, direct manipulation, and tactile feedback shape the experience of using gear. Learn how to evaluate usability through practice and realistic trip conditions, and understand how reducing weight can help or hinder a product's ease of use. This series is made possible by support from Vaer Watches as part of the Built by Vaer initiative, a partnership collaboration between Backpacking Light and Vaer to bring in-depth educational resources about product design to the Backpacking Light community. Learn more about Vaer and their watches, including the C4 Tactical Field Solar watch, featured in this episode.