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

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.
Durston Kakwa 55 Ultralight Backpack Review
Side view of a hiker wearing a gray ultralight backpack in a snowy winter landscape. The hiker is wearing a black base layer and green beanie while using a trekking pole. The backpack appears to have mesh side pockets and compression straps, with bare winter trees and patches of snow visible in the background.

Durston Kakwa 55 Ultralight Backpack Review

Author
This ultralight backpack provides unparalleled value for hikers who prioritize durability, ruggedness, and on-trail efficiency at an affordable price point.
Pa’Lante V2 Ultralight Backpack Review
A hiker walks away from the camera wearing the pa'lante v2 backpack with trees and blue sky in the background.

Pa’Lante V2 Ultralight Backpack Review

Author
This pack is designed specifically for dedicated ultralight adventurers. The frameless design, functional features, and lightweight construction allow you to go light and fast through the backcountry.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55L Ultralight Backpack Review

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55L Ultralight Backpack Review

Author
Through functional, lightweight simplicity, this pack keeps your gear safe and dry, carries weight well, and is comfortable to wear.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 Ultralight Backpack Review

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 Ultralight Backpack Review

Author
Our overall favorite ultralight pack thanks to its versatility and tried and true construction. This pack can handle anything you throw at it and gives back with thoughtful, experience-driven features.
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