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

Toaks Titanium 750 mL Backpacking Cookware Review
Closeup of a hand holding the TOAKS Titanium 750ml backpacking pot in front of granite mountains in Yosemite National Park

Toaks Titanium 750 mL Backpacking Cookware Review

Author
This simple titanium pot is perfect for the ultralight thru-hiker. It takes up minimal pack space, boils water efficiently, and only weighs 4.1 oz!
Stanley Adventure Nesting Two Cup Cookset Review

Stanley Adventure Nesting Two Cup Cookset Review

Author
This rugged cookset has two insulated mugs and a stainless steel pot and it’s not priced like it’s fine china. Stay cozy in winter conditions with its thoughtful features and superior heat retention.
Vargo Bot One Liter Backpacking Cookware Review
A hiker screws off the led to a titanium backpacking pot with rocks in the background.

Vargo Bot One Liter Backpacking Cookware Review

Author
With this pot’s durable titanium construction and screw-on lid, you’ll never have to choose between cold-soaking or a hot meal ever again. This cookpot is stove-compatible and completely watertight.
MSR Trail Mini Solo Backpacking Cookset Review
A hiker crouches and cooks with the trail mini solo on a backpacking stove with a mountainous background.

MSR Trail Mini Solo Backpacking Cookset Review

Author
This fully-featured cook pot is durable, practical, and easy to use. Backpackers of all levels and styles will appreciate its myriad of handy add-ons.
NEMO Tensor Elite Backpacking Sleeping Pad Review
a hiker stands in the woods and holds up a gray sleeping pad.

NEMO Tensor Elite Backpacking Sleeping Pad Review

Author
With other manufacturers discontinuing their most ultralight options, this sleeping pad emerges as our new top pick as an ultralight option for summer trips.
Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft Backpacking Sleeping Pad Review
a hiker holds an inflated red sleeping pad in the middle of the woods

Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft Backpacking Sleeping Pad Review

Author
This thick, plush sleeping pad is being touted as the most comfortable backpacking sleeping pad ever made. Check out our full review to see if it lives up to the hype.
NEMO Quasar 3D Insulated Backpacking Sleeping Pad Review
a hiker stands in the woods and holds up a blue sleeping pad.

NEMO Quasar 3D Insulated Backpacking Sleeping Pad Review

Author
This versatile sleeping pad is ideal for casual campers who are getting into backpacking. It offers reliable comfort and durability at a budget-friendly price.
Big Agnes Divide Insulated Backpacking Sleeping Pad Review
a hiker holds a yellow sleeping pad in a forest

Big Agnes Divide Insulated Backpacking Sleeping Pad Review

Author
This ultra-affordable sleeping pad offers the comfort and warmth of a premium three-season pad at a fraction of the price.
Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 Ultralight Backpack Review
A hiker looks over a frozen lake while wearing a fully loaded backpacking backpack.

Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 Ultralight Backpack Review

Author
A favorite amongst thru-hikers and section-hikers alike, this pack’s superior comfort, stability, and design features have made it worthy of the most demanding long-distance hikes.
Atom Packs The Pulse EP50 Ultralight Backpack Review
A hiker wearing a black backpack with an orange sleeping pad strapped to the top walks along a dirt trail, with red rock formations and scrubby desert vegetation visible in the background.

Atom Packs The Pulse EP50 Ultralight Backpack Review

Author
This thoughtfully designed pack is built for thru-hikers by thru-hikers. The convenient pockets are easy to reach, and the durable, lightweight fabric will keep you going for leagues.
Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60 Ultralight Backpack Review
AhikerwearingtheZPacksArcBlastBackpackinZionNationalPark-2

Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60 Ultralight Backpack Review

Author
Built by extreme ounce-counters for extreme ounce-counters, this pack prioritizes function and longevity over luxury. It’s one of the lightest packs on the market without compromising on durability or weather resistance.
REI Flash Air 50 Ultralight Backpack Review
A hiker faces away from the camera while wearing a grey backpack with an orange sleeping pad on top and red rocks in the background.

REI Flash Air 50 Ultralight Backpack Review

Author
Built to ease you into the style of ultralight backpacking, this pack features a sturdy hipbelt, ample airflow, luxurious padding, and a suspension system reminiscent of traditional backpacking backpacks.
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