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Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly 2.5” Women’s Hiking Shorts Review
A woman hikes down a trail, showcasing her red Rabbit shorts.

Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly 2.5” Women’s Hiking Shorts Review

This is one of the lightest and most breathable shorts in our lineup that also boasts five pockets, making it our go-to for trail runs or hikes in hot climates.
prAna Stretch Zion Cargo Women’s Hiking Shorts Review
Woman hikes along a forested trail with her Prana shorts.

prAna Stretch Zion Cargo Women’s Hiking Shorts Review

These shorts are a new, unique high-rise style that features many pockets, adjustable waist cinches, and UPF-rated material.
REI Trailmade Women’s Hiking Shorts Review
Woman standing on a rock outcropping overlooking the scenery below.

REI Trailmade Women’s Hiking Shorts Review

These shorts are truly made for the trail with their impressive comfort, functionality and quick-drying capabilities.
Stio Vallis Women’s Hiking Shorts Review
Close-up image of a woman standing in front of tall grass wearing thigh-length, beige hiking shorts.

Stio Vallis Women’s Hiking Shorts Review

These Stio shorts are great for mixed hiking and everyday use with a soft and stretchy build that’s easy to move in and good-looking, too.
MSR Guardian Water Filter Review
A hiker pumps with the msr guardian filter. the pre filter is submerged in murky water and a nalgene bottle is attached to the bottom of the filter.

MSR Guardian Water Filter Review

When confidence in water quality is of the utmost importance, there is no better tool than this portable water purifier.
The North Face Summit Series Breithorn Down Jacket Review
a man in a blue jacket standing in a field. He's facing somewhat away from the camera and lookign off into the distance.

The North Face Summit Series Breithorn Down Jacket Review

North Face knows how to make a warm, mid-weight down hoodie designed for winter adventures. It’s comfortable, durable, is solidly weather resistant and not super bulky.
Best Hiking Shoes for Kids of 2026

Best Hiking Shoes for Kids of 2026

Kiddos need reliable footwear out on trail as much as adults. Check out our review of the best hiking shoes for kids so your little one can cruise along with you on your next adventure.
Katadyn Hiker Water Filter Review
A close up of a hiker pumping water next to a creek with a hand pump filter

Katadyn Hiker Water Filter Review

This pump filter comes in a lightweight package while eliminating the hassle of squeezing water bladders or weighting on chemical treatments to work.
Adidas Terrex AX4R Mid Kids Hiking Shoes Review
Child hiking over wet rocks on a forest trail while wearing Adidas Terrex AX4R Mid shoes.

Adidas Terrex AX4R Mid Kids Hiking Shoes Review

With solid traction, ankle support, and a tough build, these shoes are great for young hikers tackling rocky trails, muddy paths, and everything in between.
Five Ten Freerider Kids Mountain Bike Shoe Review
Close-up of worn Five Ten Freerider kids shoes sitting on sandy ground near a lake.

Five Ten Freerider Kids Mountain Bike Shoe Review

These shoes offer excellent grip, protection, and versatility for young riders who split time between biking, hiking, and everyday adventures on and off the trail.
Lifestraw Peak Straw Water Filter Review
A close up of a hand holding a straw water filter

Lifestraw Peak Straw Water Filter Review

This filter was specifically designed for drinking straight from the water source. No need for extra bladders, bottles, or hydration packs!
Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 Backpacking Sleeping Bag Review
a hiker stands and holds a sleeping bag

Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 Backpacking Sleeping Bag Review

This bag is lighter than many other synthetic options, packs down decently small, and offers top-of-the-line features – all at a minimal price tag.
Mountain Hardware Bishop Pass 15 Sleeping Bag Review
a hiker sits up in a tent, wrapped cozily in a sleeping bag

Mountain Hardware Bishop Pass 15 Sleeping Bag Review

This down mummy bag offers a balance of comfort and affordability, making it one of our favorite budget buys for backpacking sleeping bags.
Katabatic Flex 22 Backpacking Quilt Review
Hiker drinking coffee while in the Katabatic Flex 22 Quilt

Katabatic Flex 22 Backpacking Quilt Review

Versatile, lightweight, warm, comfortable, and made in the USA, this quilt is a solid choice for three-season backpacking.
Hammock Gear Burrow 20 Backpacking Quilt Review
Hammock Gear Burrow 20 Quilt wrapped around someone drinking coffee in camp

Hammock Gear Burrow 20 Backpacking Quilt Review

Durable, warm for its weight, and budget friendly this quilt also offers basic customization options making it a solid choice for a wide range of backpackers.
UGQ Bandit 20 Backpacking Quilt Review

UGQ Bandit 20 Backpacking Quilt Review

Highly customizable, extra fluffy and lightweight, this backpacking quilt offers the comfort you’ll be looking forward to at the end of a long day on trail.
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