Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

Hey side facing view of the HOKA Speedgoat 6 trail running shoes with a hiker, wearing them at high altitude with snowy peaks in the background.

Men’s Hoka Speedgoat 6 Review

Last Updated: June 19, 2025

The Speedgoat 6 sees a serious redesign this year, but it hasn’t lost its magic thanks to breathable uppers, plenty of support, and bright colors.

Men’s Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 Review

Close up from the knees down of a person wearing trail runners.

Men’s Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 Review

Last Updated: June 19, 2025

Say goodbye to squished toes — the Ultraventure 4’s ultra-roomy fit and sensitive lacing keeps you cruising comfortably from trail to town.

REI Flash Carbon Trekking Poles Review

A female backpacker hiking up to the top of a red, rocky mountain pass in Glacier National Park using the REI Flash Carbon trekking poles

REI Flash Carbon Trekking Poles Review

Published: June 19, 2025

Surprisingly tough in the field and lighter than average, these hiking poles make a good choice for the everyday hiker. We enjoyed using them in the Sky Islands and think you will too on your next adventure.

AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press Review

Hands screw the filter cap on an Aeropress Go.

AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press Review

Published: June 19, 2025

Looking for the most versatile, functional, portable coffee maker for camping and backpacking? This might be the one.

Bialetti Moka Express Coffee Maker Review

Pouring coffee into a mug from the Bialetti Moka Express.

Bialetti Moka Express Coffee Maker Review

Published: June 19, 2025

The one-pot wonder you didn’t know you needed for your next camping trip. It’s easy to use, brews fast, and makes a strong cup of espresso.

MSR DynaLock Explore Carbon Trekking Poles Review

A person wearing a backpack is walking down a trail using some trekking poles. They are in desert like area with bushes and pine trees.

MSR DynaLock Explore Carbon Trekking Poles Review

Published: June 19, 2025

With a solid performance all around, these trekking poles make a great option for a wide range of adventures. They are reasonably priced and come with helpful features that any hiker can appreciate.

Black Diamond Pursuit Trekking Poles Review

A person wearing a backpack is walking down a trail using trekking poles in a forest.

Black Diamond Pursuit Trekking Poles Review

Published: June 18, 2025

Check out why these are our favorite trekking poles overall. Basically they are comfy, not heavy, durable, simple and effective. Plus they work for snow and summer mountain pursuits!

Trekology Trek-Z 2.0 Trekking Poles Review

A person is walking on a trail with a pair of trekking poles and a forest in the background.

Trekology Trek-Z 2.0 Trekking Poles Review

Published: June 18, 2025

These trekking poles are the best screaming deal pair we tested that aren’t made to fall apart immediately.

Best Trail Running Shoes for Men of 2026

Waist-down view of a runner wearing the Altra Lone Peak trail running shoes with a view of Mt. Hood in the background

Best Trail Running Shoes for Men of 2026

Last Updated: June 17, 2025

Whether you’re chasing summits or logging miles close to home, our updated list of the best men’s trail runners has your next favorite pair.

Best Camping & Backpacking Coffee Makers of 2026

Closeup of the GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip brewing coffee into an ultralight backpacking cup on a volcanic rock

Best Camping & Backpacking Coffee Makers of 2026

Published: June 16, 2025

Spending time in the woods doesn’t mean you have to ditch your daily brew. We’ve tested the top coffee makers so you can embrace your morning coffee ritual wherever you are.

Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ Review

A person wearing a backpack is walking towards the camera on a trail using the Distance Carbon trekking poles. The area is rocky, grassy, and hilly.

Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ Review

Published: June 16, 2025

These ultra-light, compact trekking poles are perfect for ultralight backpackers and trail runners. They pack down small, set up quickly, and offer impressively streamlined features for fast-paced adventures.

Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles Review

A person wearing a backpack and holding some poles is standing on a trail catching their breath with mountain views and a desert behind them.

Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles Review

Published: June 16, 2025

Carbon, cork, and long-lasting? Yes, this trekking pole has it. It isn’t the lightest, but this option is deluxe when it comes to more difficult hikes.

Zpacks Minimalist Trekking Poles Review

A person is using a pair of trekking poles to help them cross a shallow creek in the woods.

Zpacks Minimalist Trekking Poles Review

Published: June 16, 2025

If you sometimes need a pole or two, this might be a great fit. They are uber-ultralight and don’t cost a pretty penny.

Muttluks All Weather Dog Boot Review

A close up of a dog trotting on a dirt path wearing the Muttluks boots. There is tall, yellow grass in the background.

Muttluks All Weather Dog Boot Review

Published: June 14, 2025

Is there a middle ground between hiking boots and mushing boots? This boot is doing its best to find out! Click here to learn more.

Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boot Review

Close up of a small terrier wearing the Ruffwear boots on a trail in the desert with a mountain in the background.

Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boot Review

Published: June 14, 2025

Made specifically for hiking, these boots are durable with fantastic tread. Learn more about why these boots are well loved by many adventurers.

Wagwear WagWellies Mojave Dog Boot Review

A close up of a German Shepherd Dog wearing the WagWellies Mojave while drinking out of a small pool on a slab rock.

Wagwear WagWellies Mojave Dog Boot Review

Published: June 14, 2025

Looks can be deceiving! These boots just might be your dog’s new favorite pair of shoes. Click the link to find out more.