Brett Kretzer
Gear Analyst

Brett is a writer, hiker, and all-around outdoor enthusiast. Growing up in the mountains of western Maryland, with the Appalachian Trail in his backyard, he’s always felt a kinship with dense forests and rolling hills.

From 2014-2021, he toured the US full-time with a bluegrass band. After being absolutely captivated by the rugged ridge lines and boreal forests of New Hampshire and Maine, he decided to dive headfirst into his love for the outdoors. He thru-hiked the Long Trail and the Colorado Trail in 2021 before making the move to Colorado to pursue adventure and work in the great outdoors. He’s backpacked thousands of miles across the US and Europe including the Wonderland Trail and the GR11 in the Spanish Pyrenees.

He loves nerding out about ultralight gear, dialing in his perfect kit, and always trying new and innovative designs. These days, he still calls himself a musician as well as a writer based in beautiful Golden, CO. You can find him bagging peaks, climbing rocks, shredding powder, or jamming at a bluegrass festival.

Articles by Brett Kretzer

Smartwool Intraknit Thermal Merino Base Layer Review
A hiker tightens the straps on a backpack while wearing it and the Smartwool Intraknit. Sky, mountains, and trees in the background.

Smartwool Intraknit Thermal Merino Base Layer Review

Author
Lightweight, breathable, and mobile, this base layer has everything you need to stay comfortable on your most serious winter adventures.
Ibex Woolies Pro Tech Base Layer Review
a runner runs along a wooded trail in a black base layer.

Ibex Woolies Pro Tech Base Layer Review

Author
This base layer is redefining merino wool success with new spinning methods that boost warmth and durability. It’s also the lightest base layer on our list.
Arc’Teryx Rho LT Crew Base Layer Review
a hiker stands on a wooded trail wearing a light blue base layer and a backpack

Arc’Teryx Rho LT Crew Base Layer Review

Author
Designed for cold weather activities, this base layer delivers some of the best warmth-to-weight ratios and comfort that we’ve seen.
Outdoor Research Alpine Onset Merino 150 Hoodie Base Layer Review
a hiker in a black hooded base layer stands in an alpine environment and raises the hood on his shirt

Outdoor Research Alpine Onset Merino 150 Hoodie Base Layer Review

Author
With its integrated hood and facemask, this base layer makes for a perfect sleep or active shirt in frigid weather.
7 Best Base Layers of 2025
a hiker in a hooded black base layer stands with a coffee mug in an alpine environment

7 Best Base Layers of 2025

Author
We’ve got your layering system covered starting with our trail-tested and reviewed guide to the best base layers around.
MSR Guardian Water Filter Review
A hiker pumps with the msr guardian filter. the pre filter is submerged in murky water and a nalgene bottle is attached to the bottom of the filter.

MSR Guardian Water Filter Review

Author
When confidence in water quality is of the utmost importance, there is no better tool than this portable water purifier.
Katadyn Hiker Water Filter Review
A close up of a hiker pumping water next to a creek with a hand pump filter

Katadyn Hiker Water Filter Review

Author
This pump filter comes in a lightweight package while eliminating the hassle of squeezing water bladders or weighting on chemical treatments to work.
Lifestraw Peak Straw Water Filter Review
A close up of a hand holding a straw water filter

Lifestraw Peak Straw Water Filter Review

Author
This filter was specifically designed for drinking straight from the water source. No need for extra bladders, bottles, or hydration packs!
Mountain Hardware Bishop Pass 15 Sleeping Bag Review
a hiker sits up in a tent, wrapped cozily in a sleeping bag

Mountain Hardware Bishop Pass 15 Sleeping Bag Review

Author
This down mummy bag offers a balance of comfort and affordability, making it one of our favorite budget buys for backpacking sleeping bags.
Best Hiking Underwear For Men of 2025
A guy wearing many pairs of underwear

Best Hiking Underwear For Men of 2025

Author
Whether it’s superior odor resistance, ultra breathability, or cozy comfort, a good pair of underwear goes a long way towards increasing your comfort on trail.
MSR Alpine Stowaway 1.1L Backpacking CookPot Review
A hiker crouches next to a backpacking pot cooking on a stove and begins to lift the lid.

MSR Alpine Stowaway 1.1L Backpacking CookPot Review

Author
This is a classic camping pot because it boasts excellent heat distribution, even cooking, and unparalleled durability. For anyone who abuses their gear or loves to cook over the fire, it’s a no-brainer.
Evernew Titanium Pasta Pot Review
A close up of a hiker holding the evernew pasta pot on a stove with one hand and turning the stove on with the other. The lid of the pot is sticking out of snow.

Evernew Titanium Pasta Pot Review

Author
The ultralight backcountry chef will appreciate the large diameter, minimal weight, and practical features of this titanium pot. It’s fully featured enough to cook a delicious meal, yet light enough not to break a ten-pound base weight.
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