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

Enlightened Equipment Visp Rain jacket Review

Enlightened Equipment Visp Rain jacket Review

Author
The Enlightened Equipment Visp (men’s / women’s) is among the best value ultralight jackets on the market for its price, protection, and adjustability. We’ve worn this jacket for hundreds of miles, including stints in Colorado’s monsoon season and the first snow of the year in the Pacific Northwest. We hope our experience helps you decide if the Visp is the right jacket for you.
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.
10 Best Hydration Mixes & Electrolyte Powders of 2025
A backpacker drinking from a water bottle filled with pink hydration mix

10 Best Hydration Mixes & Electrolyte Powders of 2025

Author
Sip, sip, hooray! We’ve trail-tested the most flavorful, nutritious, and delicious hydration mixes out there so you can stay fueled up on your adventures.
Best Stuff Sacks of 2025
A hiker holding an orange REI Lightweight Drawstring Stuff Sack with a backpacking tent and a mountain peak in the background

Best Stuff Sacks of 2025

Author
Toiletries, electronics, extra clothes, food – all the little bits and bobs in your backpack can become a mess if you don’t have a way…
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.
Best Sun Shirts of 2025

Best Sun Shirts of 2025

Author
Ready for some fun in the sun? Stay protected with our trail-tested expert recommendations for the best sun shirts available.
Best Vegan & Vegetarian Backpacking Meals of 2025
GOOD TO-GO - Mexican Quinoa Bowl

Best Vegan & Vegetarian Backpacking Meals of 2025

Author
Zucchini and mushrooms and black beans, oh my! We’ve once again donned our fancy food critic pants and ate all the food…
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
From the flower-filled alpine meadows of the Sawatch Mountains to the dramatic craggy peaks of the San Juans, a hike on the Colorado Trail is sure to be a journey full of challenges and rewarding experiences.
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.
10 Best Hiking Fanny Packs of 2025
Closeup of a female hiker wearing the Patagonia Black Hole Mini fanny pack with a backpack

10 Best Hiking Fanny Packs of 2025

Author
Fanny packs may have been considered a fashion faux-pas at one point, but nowadays it seems like we don’t make it a mile…
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