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

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Tent Review
a hiker leans out of a light grey tent

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Tent Review

Author
As one of the lightest double-wall, 2-door tents on the market, this tent is an ideal backcountry abode for either one or two people on an extended trip.
REI Co-op Trailmade 2 Tent Review
a tent is setup with no fly, doors open, and a mountain view

REI Co-op Trailmade 2 Tent Review

Author
If you’re new to backpacking and just need something easy to set up, protective, exceptionally durable, and won’t break the bank, then this tent is for you.
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent Review
a hiker sits in a tent with the awning deployed during sunset

Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent Review

Author
Even after thousands of miles of testing, this tent remains one of our all time favorites. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and versatile enough for all conditions.
Best Winter Ice Cleats & Traction Devices 2025
A hiker wearing the Hillsound Flexsteps with trail running shoes

Best Winter Ice Cleats & Traction Devices 2025

Author
Whether you’re trekking in the depths of winter or traversing north-facing slopes in spring, a pair of traction devices offers surefootedness and peace of mind in slick conditions.
NEMO Dagger OSMO 2 Tent Review
one hiker lays in a tent while another reaches into an upper pocket above him

NEMO Dagger OSMO 2 Tent Review

Author
This incredibly spacious 2-person tent is a high-quality choice for those wanting a shelter that’s comfortable for any type of adventure.
MSR Hubba Hubba LT 2 Tent Review
An MSR tent is pitched on dirt with pine trees in the background.

MSR Hubba Hubba LT 2 Tent Review

Author
This long-time favorite just got even better. With an upgraded overall structure and enhanced ease of setup, it is a strong contender for our favorite backpacking tents.
Best Tent Stakes of 2025
A backpacker's hand holding a set of Vargo Titanium Shepherds Hook tent stakes in his hand with a NEMO tent in the background

Best Tent Stakes of 2025

Author
Though they seem trivial, tent stakes are vital to keeping your shelter secure – a sudden midnight storm will quickly remind you how crucial they really are.
Best Backpacking Cookware of 2025
Closeup of a backpacker peaking under the lid of the TOAKS Titanium 750ML backpacking pot

Best Backpacking Cookware of 2025

Author
Everyone has their own cooking style in the backcountry. Whether you’re a cold soaker or gourmet chef, we’ve tested various cookware to help guide your choice.
7 Best Base Layers of 2025
A hiker stands in the woods wearing the Smartwool Classic All-Season base layer. Trees are in the background.

7 Best Base Layers of 2025

Additional Author
We’ve got your layering system covered starting with our trail-tested and reviewed guide to the best base layers around.
Snow Peak Litemax Stove Review

Snow Peak Litemax Stove Review

Author
This is one of the lightest and most compact backpacking stoves on the market. This tiny powerhouse can boil a liter of water in just under five minutes, and then it folds away nicely to fit into pretty much any cookpot when you’re done.
Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 Backpack Review
A hiker wearing the fully packed Gorilla 50 backpack facing away from the camera with a tree and desert scene in the background.

Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 Backpack Review

Author
The Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 is one of the most comfortable ultralight backpacks on the market, and we like using it for trips where our load demands a little extra padding and support.
Solo Stove Lite Review
A hiker sets a pot on the Solo Stove Lite. A tent and trees are in the background.

Solo Stove Lite Review

Author
This wood-burning stove is easy to use, nearly smoke-free, and doesn’t scar the ground. Most of all, it’s fun!
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