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

NEMO Dagger OSMO 2 Tent Review

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.
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…
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
Tent stakes are some of the smallest, but most important items in your outdoor kit. Your tent stakes will secure your shelter…
Gossamer Gear The Two & The DCF Two Tent Review

Gossamer Gear The Two & The DCF Two Tent Review

Author
Gossamer Gear’s The Two and The DCF Two offer an excellent balance of low weight and spacious interior at a great value price. When compared to other ultralight tents, few come close to the generous headroom of The Two thanks to its unique slanted pole structure.
10 Best GPS Watches for Hiking & Backpacking of 2025
Closeup of the Coros Apex 2 GPS Watch on a backpacker's wrist with steep mountains in the background

10 Best GPS Watches for Hiking & Backpacking of 2025

Author
Lost? Not on our watch. Plot a course to adventure with our guide to the best GPS watches.
Best Backpacking Quilts of 2025
A backpacker wrapped up in the Enlightened Equipment Revelation sleeping quilt while sitting on a rocky slab overlooking bare granite mountains across the valley

Best Backpacking Quilts of 2025

Author
Get the ultimate ultralight warmth with one of our trail-tested picks for the most versatile and comfy backpacking quilts available.
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
If you’re in the market for new backpacking cookware, you’ve come to the right place. Our team of outdoor experts has been cooking up a storm…
Best Hiking Sandals for Women of 2025
A hiker posing on a rock in the women's Chaco Z/1 Classic Sandals

Best Hiking Sandals for Women of 2025

Author
Whether you’re heading out for a paddle or setting off on a grand hiking adventure, your perfect pair of sandals is on our list of tested…
Best Dog Backpacks of 2025
A dog wearing the Ruffwear Approach backpack in front of a snowy lake and marbled mountain peaks

Best Dog Backpacks of 2025

Author
We sniffed out the best dog backpacks for our pup pals to take on trail. These bags are rigorously tested for canine comfort.
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

Author
We’ve got your layering system covered starting with our trail-tested and reviewed guide to the best base layers around.
10 Best Travel Backpacks of 2025
Back view of a guy wearing the Cotopaxi Allpa travel backpack in a green park with a bridge overhead

10 Best Travel Backpacks of 2025

Author
Whether your traveling a few hours or 2,000 miles, jet-set in style with our guide to the most organized, affordable, and durable travel backpacks of the year.
Best Dog Boots of 2025

Best Dog Boots of 2025

Author
Our dogs trail-test their gear too! We have the pick of the litter for the most protective, comfortable, and durable dog boots.
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