# Sea to Summit's Ultralight Cookset Challenges Weight-Conscious Backpackers
The Sea to Summit XLite Collapsible 2L Pot Cookset offers a radical reduction in pack weight for backcountry travelers. The set compresses to a footprint smaller than most water bottles, addressing a persistent problem for ultralight hikers: cooking gear typically consumes both ounces and cubic inches that could go toward food or sleeping equipment.
Traditional camp cooksets force compromises. Heavy stainless steel pots add significant weight, while flimsy aluminum alternatives sacrifice durability. The XLite series uses a collapsible silicone design that flexes flat when empty, eliminating wasted space. Sea to Summit claims the complete cookset weighs less than comparable rigid alternatives without sacrificing functionality.
Field testing revealed both strengths and limitations. The pot heated water efficiently and distributed heat evenly across the bottom. Its collapsible design proved genuinely convenient for packing, particularly in cramped backpacks where every inch matters. The silicone construction resisted punctures during typical camp handling.
Heat distribution around the sides lagged noticeably compared to rigid cooksets. Users reported that boiling water required slightly longer than traditional aluminum pots. The silicone material requires careful handling around sharp rocks or rough camp surfaces, though it resisted damage during standard field conditions.
For minimalist backpackers targeting sub-15-pound base weights, the XLite cookset merits consideration. It performs competently for boiling water and heating simple meals, the primary demands of backcountry cooking. Weight savings compound across a kit. The cookset itself saves ounces that add up when combined with lightweight stoves and minimalist food strategies.
The trade-off involves accepting marginally slower heat-up times and slightly reduced durability compared to traditional options