Casey Handley
Senior Gear Analyst

Casey is an experienced hiker and gear expert who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the CleverHiker team. She has a passion for ultralight backpacking, years of experience working at REI, and a deep understanding of what people need and want from their gear. Casey has spent years researching, testing, and writing about outdoor gear to become CleverHiker’s Senior Gear Analyst.

Casey has also hiked thousands of miles on some of the most beautiful and challenging trails in the country, including thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, John Muir Trail, Arizona Trail, Colorado Trail, and Long Trail.

She has a background in English and writing, and her meticulous attention to detail is evident in the content she produces for CleverHiker. She also has a keen eye for style and design, making her a valuable contributor to our site’s visual and written content.

Casey lives in her van somewhere in Central Oregon with her partner, dog, and cat. She spends her free time studying maps to plan her next thru-hike, shooting film in beautiful backcountry spots, and looking for ways to shave an ounce off her pack weight.

Articles by Casey Handley

Zpacks 7×9 Flat Tarp Review

Zpacks 7×9 Flat Tarp Review

Author
f you’re looking for the lightest possible shelter that doesn’t compromise on space, the ZPacks 7×9 Flat Tarp is just about as light as they come. This minimal rectangular tarp packs down small, provides a ton of room for a single hiker, and is a bit more affordable than other tarps in its weight class.
Aquamira Water Purification Drops Review
Closeup of Part A and Part B Aquamira dropper bottles

Aquamira Water Purification Drops Review

Author
These purification drops are a popular water treatment option among backpackers because they’re affordable, lightweight and easy to use.
Zpacks Vertice Rain Jacket Review
a hiker with their hood up in a forest in the rain.

Zpacks Vertice Rain Jacket Review

Author
This featherweight shell provides excellent coverage, is incredibly breathable, and is surprisingly durable for how light it is.
A Complete Guide to Hiking the Colorado Trail

A Complete Guide to Hiking the Colorado Trail

Author
Stretching from Denver to Durango, the Colorado Trail is a full of challenges and rewarding experiences. Here are our first-hand tips for hiking the CT
Fizan Compact 3 Trekking Poles Review

Fizan Compact 3 Trekking Poles Review

Author
Drop + Fizan Compact 3 Trekking Poles are strong, comfortable to hold, and – best of all – they’re super affordable.
Katadyn Micropur Water Purification Tablets Review
a packet of micropur chlorine tablets

Katadyn Micropur Water Purification Tablets Review

Author
These chlorine treatment tabs take up almost no pack space, they weigh next to nothing, and they provide safe drinking water if your filter fails or the water is contaminated.
Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork Trekking Poles Review

Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork Trekking Poles Review

Author
Black Diamond’s Trail Ergo Cork trekking poles are some of our favorites for hiking on rugged trails where…
The Ultimate Guide to Vermont’s Long Trail

The Ultimate Guide to Vermont’s Long Trail

Author
Our guide to Vermont’s Long Trail will help hikers reap the rewards of this rugged hike to the Canadian border.
Katadyn BeFree Water Filter Review

Katadyn BeFree Water Filter Review

Author
This microfilter has an incredible flow rate, and it can be cleaned in the field. Because you can drink straight from the top like a sports bottle, you will spend less time squeezing or pumping and more time enjoying the trail.
Best Tips for Hiking & Backpacking with a Dog
two backpackers and a dog taking a break on the ground

Best Tips for Hiking & Backpacking with a Dog

Author
Following the tips in this guide will prepare you and your pooch for the trail and build confidence to take them…
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Review

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Review

Author
If you’re looking for one sleeping pad that can keep you warm and comfortable for most of the year, the Therm-a-Rest XLite is it. The XLite boasts an unmatched warmth-to-weight ratio, packs down incredibly small, and is durable enough to last through many seasons of regular use.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm Review

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm Review

Author
Tired of tossing and turning in your tent because you’re too cold to sleep? Give the Therm-a-Rest XTherm a try. With an R-Value (insulation value) of 6.9 and weighing in at under a pound, this pad is perfect for 4-season adventures and for those who tend to sleep cold.
1 2 3