A kneeling woman smiles at the camera while hugging her panting dog in a field with golden late summer light
Meg Carney
Gear Analyst

Meg is an outdoor and environmental writer with a passion for environmental advocacy. She’s been a freelance writer for outdoor industry publications and brands for over seven years and has a distinct focus on sustainable product design and environmental advocacy. She combined her passion for outdoor recreation with environmentalism in her debut book, Outdoor Minimalist: Waste Less Hiking, Camping, and Backpacking, published in September 2022.

Since then, she has spent her time writing and covering topics within the outdoor industry, ranging from the best new products and greenwashing to the scientific coverups of hazardous chemicals. Her work can be found in digital publications such as Field and Stream, Popular Mechanics, and GearJunkie, and her environmental journalism extends into podcast production with her original shows, Outdoor Minimalist and Forever Chemicals.

Articles by Meg Carney

Women’s Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot Review
Hiker crossing over rocks in front of a waterfall wearing the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped

Women’s Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot Review

Author
Affordable, waterproof, and comfortable right from the start, these boots offer reliable trail performance and value for casual hikers and weekend explorers.
Women’s Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX Hiking Boot Review
Hiker walking through a shallow stream wearing the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Women's Hiking Boots

Women’s Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX Hiking Boot Review

Author
Lightweight yet stable, this hiking boot provides durable protection and a snug, supportive fit, making it ideal for tackling wet, rocky, or mixed terrain on single-day adventures.
Women’s Teva Grandview GTX Mid Hiking Boot Review
Hiker standing above a valley wearing the Teva Grandview GTX Mid women’s hiking boots

Women’s Teva Grandview GTX Mid Hiking Boot Review

Author
A stylish and waterproof hiking boot that delivers plush comfort and reliable performance for everything from day hikes to moderate backpacking adventures.
Women’s Lowa Renegade EVO GTX Mid Hiking Boot Review
Hiker wearing Lowa Renegade EVO GTX WS, walking her dog

Women’s Lowa Renegade EVO GTX Mid Hiking Boot Review

Author
These boots have upgraded cushioning, enhanced durability, and dependable waterproofing for challenging terrain. With fewer seams, a refined fit, and excellent ankle support, they provide all-day comfort and stability for everything from muddy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips.
Civivi Yonder G10 Pocket Knife Review
Holding the Civivi Yonder G10 Pocket Knife up while open with a tree as the background

Civivi Yonder G10 Pocket Knife Review

Author
Lightweight, sharp, and built for daily use, this compact blade offers impressive cutting power and lasting value at an affordable price point.
Buck Knives 55 Pocket Knife Review
The Buck Knives 055 Pocket Knife open on a rock

Buck Knives 55 Pocket Knife Review

Author
A timeless, compact pocket knife with reliable strength, a sharp blade, and classic materials perfect for daily carry and outdoor use.
CRKT Drifter Pocket Knife Review
The CRKT Drifter Pocket Knife closed on a rock

CRKT Drifter Pocket Knife Review

Author
A compact, budget-friendly EDC knife with durable materials and smooth, reliable performance for daily carry and outdoor adventures.
AlphaPak Adventurer Dog Backpack Review
Showing the side of the AlphaPak Adventurer backpack

AlphaPak Adventurer Dog Backpack Review

Author
This durable, versatile dog backpack is our top choice with water-resistant fabric, detachable saddlebags, and a secure, adjustable fit for all your hiking adventures.
Ruffwear Approach Dog Backpack Review
Husky wearing the Ruffwear Approach overlooking a mountain valley

Ruffwear Approach Dog Backpack Review

Author
A wild rumpus ready dog backpack designed for hiking and overnights, offering secure saddlebags and a comfortable fit for adventurous pups.
Mountainsmith K9 Dog Backpack Review
A Samoyed wearing the Mountainsmith K9 Dog Backpack

Mountainsmith K9 Dog Backpack Review

Author
This spacious dog backpack has six extra adjustable points and breathable materials for active outdoor adventures.
Ruffwear Front Range Day Pack Review
Samoyed wearing the Ruffwear Front Range Day Pack

Ruffwear Front Range Day Pack Review

Author
Ruffwear isn’t just good at marketing. They’ve made a stable, well-padded dog backpack with smart storage, ideal for carrying extra gear on day hikes and short overnight trips.
Kurgo Baxter Dog Backpack Review

Kurgo Baxter Dog Backpack Review

Author
This lightweight, adjustable dog pack boasts a low-profile design, making it ideal for day hikes and trail runs.
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