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

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.
MSR Ceramic 2-Pot Set Backpacking Cookware Review
Two hikers show two different cook pots and a lid against a desert background.

MSR Ceramic 2-Pot Set Backpacking Cookware Review

Author
The pinnacle of ultralight cooking, this 2-pot set features a 4-liter capacity and a non-stick ceramic coating, ideal for basecamp and cooking delicious meals for a small group.
SOTO Thermostack Combo Backpacking Cookware Review
A hiker nests the two pieces of the insulated mug together with a snowy background.

SOTO Thermostack Combo Backpacking Cookware Review

Author
This is a 4-season design for solo backpackers who get after it in any weather. The titanium pot, cozy stuff sack, and insulated mug are perfect for a meal accompanied by a hot beverage.
GSI Outdoors Halulite Boiler Pot Review
The gsi halulite boiler sits on a stove with red rock formations in the background.

GSI Outdoors Halulite Boiler Pot Review

Author
This pure and simple pot features a streamlined design that is perfect for beginners and won’t break the bank. From boiling water to cooking hearty meals, this one liter pot gets the job done.
Snow Peak Ti-Mini Solo Combo 2.0 Backpacking Cookware Review
The-BRS-Ultralight-backpacking-stove-with-the-Snow-Peak-Mini-Solo-Titanium-Cookset.jpeg

Snow Peak Ti-Mini Solo Combo 2.0 Backpacking Cookware Review

Author
This 6.9 oz, nesting two-pot cook set is perfect for ultralight backpackers who require hot water with breakfast or simply enjoy sharing a cup of coffee with a trail buddy.
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