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

Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter Review
A water filter on a rock.

Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter Review

Author
This pump filter comes in a lightweight package while eliminating the hassle of squeezing water bladders or waiting on chemical treatments to work.
LifeStraw Peak Squeeze Water Filter Review
A hiker inserts a water filter into a water bladder.

LifeStraw Peak Squeeze Water Filter Review

Author
This adaptable squeeze filter effortlessly produces safe and delicious water in the backcountry and is compatible with a range of different water bottles and bladders.
Western Mountaineering TerraLite 25 Review
a hiker shakes out a blue sleeping bag

Western Mountaineering TerraLite 25 Review

Author
This roomy semi-rectangular sleeping bag offers far more freedom of movement than a traditional mummy bag while still maintaining low weight, solid warmth, and excellent packability.
Teton Sports Trailhead 20 Sleeping Bag Review
a hiker holds an orange and grey sleeping bag

Teton Sports Trailhead 20 Sleeping Bag Review

Author
For mild, summer conditions, this budget sleeping bag will complete your backpacking sleep system at an absolute minimal cost. Say goodbye to high costs and hello to the great outdoors.
Jetboil Stash Cooking System Review
Close-up image of a hiker cooking with a pot and backpacking stove.

Jetboil Stash Cooking System Review

Author
This premium ultralight cook system is powerful, efficient, and ready to go right out of the box – perfect for quick boils and simple backcountry meals.
TOAKS Titanium Backpacking Stove Review
Close-up image of a hand turning the fuel control on a backpacking stove.

TOAKS Titanium Backpacking Stove Review

Author
If you’re an ultralighter, this minimalist backpacking stove might just be your new go-to. It’s light, affordable, durable, and gets the job done without any fuss.
MSR Switch Backpacking Stove Review
Close-up image of an MSR stove on top of a fuel canister with a view of trees and the sky above.

MSR Switch Backpacking Stove Review

Author
Fast boiling, efficient fuel use, and versatile cooking modes make this backpacking stove a strong choice for hikers who want more than just basic water boiling in the backcountry.
Gossamer Gear Thinlight Sleeping Pad Review
a hiker sits on the ground and leans up against a log with a foam pad underneath him

Gossamer Gear Thinlight Sleeping Pad Review

Author
From stretching out for a quick nap during the day to adding a valuable layer of protection under your inflatable pad, this is the perfect addition to your current sleep system.
Exped Ultra 6.5R Sleeping Pad Review
a hiker stands next to a green inflatable sleeping pad

Exped Ultra 6.5R Sleeping Pad Review

Author
Hike through all of the seasons with this new sleeping pad on the market. Its size, comfort, and warmth all but guarantee a good night’s sleep in the backcountry.
GR11 Backpacking Guide – Spanish Pyrenees
a hiker traverses a narrow ledge over a cliff with green mountains in the background

GR11 Backpacking Guide – Spanish Pyrenees

Author
Plan your backpacking trip on the GR11, a stunning 500-mile high-mountain route through the Spanish Pyrenees full of views, refugios, and challenging terrain.
Ultralight Backpacking Gear: Packing List Under 10 lbs
a hiker stands on a log next to a pond with a yellow backpack on her back

Ultralight Backpacking Gear: Packing List Under 10 lbs

Author
This ultralight backpacking gear list will keep you moving fast on trail comfortable in camp. Putting together a base weight under 10 pounds has never been easier.
Yaktrax Walk Winter Traction Device Review
a hiker walks towards the camera showing the bottom of one shoe with a traction device attached

Yaktrax Walk Winter Traction Device Review

Author
Most people are familiar with these winter traction devices due to their affordability and widespread availability. Whether they are the most durable or capable is a different conversation.
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