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MSR FreeLite 2 Tent Review

MSR FreeLite 2 Tent Review

This is a lightweight and compact semi-freestanding tent. It’s great for backpacking solo or keeping pack weight down if you don’t mind a tight squeeze with your hiking partner.
Zpacks Plex Solo Tent Review
the zpacks plex solo tent pitched near a river on a sunny day

Zpacks Plex Solo Tent Review

Go lightweight without sacrificing every creature comfort. At 14.2 oz., this is the most livable one-person tents we’ve ever backpacked with.
Kuhl FreeFlex Rollup Women’s Pants Review
a backpacker on a ledge looking into a forested meadow in the mountains

Kuhl FreeFlex Rollup Women’s Pants Review

This option can switch from pants to capris in a snap. Designed and constructed to outlast your burliest hikes and trails.
Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle Pants Review
A hiker wearing the Mountain Hardwear Dynama 2 pants walks on a trail in the mountains.

Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle Pants Review

Hike, run, scramble, or be a couch potato in these super comfortable and streamlined joggers.
Sea to Summit Telos TR2 Tent Review
two backpackers below a volcano in oregon sitting inside their sea to summit telos tent without the rain fly

Sea to Summit Telos TR2 Tent Review

This backpacking tent offers standout features, including exceptional headroom, light-dispersing Lightbar, and adaptable ventilation, adding luxury to a rugged design.
Arc’teryx Rho Heavyweight Zip-Neck Base Layer Review
A hiker zips up the neck on the Arc'teryx Rho Heavyweight Zip Neck base layer. Trees are in the background.

Arc’teryx Rho Heavyweight Zip-Neck Base Layer Review

This is a top-of-the-line base layer offering fleece-like warmth for cold campsites, alpine starts, or that long chairlift.
Ortovox 185 Rock’n’wool Base Layer Review
A hiker hiking through the woods with a pack and trekking poles while wearing the Ortovox Rock'n'Wool base layer. Trees and a trail are in the background.

Ortovox 185 Rock’n’wool Base Layer Review

This midweight base layer features ultra-soft fine wool fibers and a comfortable, but snug fit making it feel warmer than other base layers of similar weight.
REI Midweight Half Zip Base Layer Review
A hiker climbing down some rocks in a desert landscape wearing the REI Midweight Half Zip Base Layer

REI Midweight Half Zip Base Layer Review

If you’re only going to buy one base layer, this midweight budget friendly and comfy top is a great option. No base layer can do it all, but this one comes close.
Smartwool Classic All-Season Base Layer Review
A hiker crosses a log wearing a backpack and the Smartwool Classic All-Season base layer. Trees are in the background.

Smartwool Classic All-Season Base Layer Review

The value of this base layer is right in the name—“classic” and “all-season.” It utilizes a timeless design without overcomplicating things. The moderate warmth and excellent breathability make it an appropriate choice all year round.
Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie Base Layer Review
A hiker walks down a trail with mountains and trees in the background. He is using trekking poles and wearing a pack and the Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie

Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie Base Layer Review

This is an ultimate layer. The one that you will always bring on every trip “just in case” and end up wearing everyday.
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

We’ve got your layering system covered starting with our trail-tested and reviewed guide to the best base layers around.
Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew Review
A hiker sips from a water bottle while wearing the Patagonia Capilene base layer. Trees are in the background.

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew Review

A breathable wool base layer that nails the sweet spot for midweight warmth.
Women’s Houdini Wadi Shorts Review
A gear analyst wearing lightweight blue houdini wadi shorts at sunset on a clear evening

Women’s Houdini Wadi Shorts Review

These shorts are a standout choice for those seeking a soft, lightweight, ultra-breathable pair.
Women’s Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts Review
a hiker posing next to a fence in a field of rabbit brush and sage in the sunny high desert

Women’s Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts Review

All-around performance shorts with a lightweight, breathable fabric, this option offers a streamlined fit that’s both functional, durable and quick-drying.
Women’s Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts Review

Women’s Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts Review

These shorts are incredibly lightweight and packable, ideal for minimalist hikers who need to save space and weight. Despite their featherweight feel, they’re durable with great zip pockets.
Janji 3″ AFO Middle Shorts Review
a women in the desert wearing the janji afo middle shorts in black

Janji 3″ AFO Middle Shorts Review

These shorts offer impressive comfort and a lightweight design. They’re a solid value for eco-conscious hikers who prioritize comfort and breathability.
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