Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xtherm NXT Sleeping Pad Review
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xtherm NXT Sleeping Pad Review
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT has one of the best warmth-to-weight ratios of any sleeping pad on the market, but is it worth the spendy price tag? We put the new Xtherm NXT to the test to see how it holds up to real-world conditions.
Platypus QuickDraw MicroFilter System Review
Platypus QuickDraw MicroFilter System Review
The Platypus QuickDraw MicroFilter System is similar to other popular squeeze filters on the market but stands out…
REI Co-op Flash 2 Tent Review
REI Co-op Flash 2 Tent Review
Spoiler alert: we really dig the REI Co-op Flash 2. This tent is ultralight, has a convenient design, and is very well-priced for the specs and quality. Read our full review to find out why this tent is earning high marks on our list of the Best Backpacking Tents.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Review
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Review
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite has been one of our favorite backpacking sleeping pads for years, and the best just got better with the introduction of the new XLite NXT version. This pad is still made with the high-quality construction that Therm-a-Rest is known for, but it’s warmer and much quieter than its predecessor.
REI Co-op Trailmade 2 Tent Review
REI Co-op Trailmade 2 Tent Review
The REI Co-op Trailmade 2 replaced one of REI’s best-selling tents, the Passage 2, earlier this year. With a similar design, a very affordable price point, and exceptional durability, we decided to put the new Trailmade to the test to see how it stacks up against the competition.
REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent Review
REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent Review
The REI Half Dome SL 2+ is one of the absolute best value tents money can buy. It’s easy to set up, spacious, and made with high-quality materials, yet it costs significantly less than most tents in its class. We think one of the Half Dome’s best assets is its versatility – it’s large enough for car camping and light enough for backpacking.
Big Agnes Zoom UL Sleeping Pad Review
Big Agnes Zoom UL Sleeping Pad Review
You’d be hard-pressed to find a better pad than the Big Agnes Zoom UL in this price range. This rectangular sleeping pad is plenty warm for most three-season adventures, and its compact, ultralight design will help keep your pack weight and bulk to a minimum.
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent Review
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent Review
The Copper Spur HV UL2 is one of Big Agnes’ best-sellers, and it’s among our all-time favorite backpacking tents.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 Backpack Review
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 Backpack Review
Made with thru-hikers in mind, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 backpack is everything you need and nothing you don’t. This pack is essentially waterproof, incredibly durable for the weight, and has convenient pockets galore. We put our Unbound pack to the test over hundreds of miles in the Sonoran Desert, and we think it’s a big win for long-distance hiking and ultralight backpacking.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2 Tent Review
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2 Tent Review
Hyperlite Mountain Gear’s Unbound 2 tent is a fresh take on a tried-and-true ultralight design. We’ve put ours through the wringer over hundreds of miles in the Sonoran Desert, and we found it to be a spacious retreat after hard days of hiking.
Zpacks Mummy Sleeping Bag Review
Zpacks Mummy Sleeping Bag Review
The Zpacks Mummy Sleeping Bag offers the warmth of a hooded sleeping bag and the ventilation of a quilt all in one. It has one of the best warmth-to-weight ratios among all the choices on the market, and will surely become a top choice for heat-seeking hikers looking to dial in their gear.
C.A.M.P. Corsa Ice Axe Review
C.A.M.P. Corsa Ice Axe Review
The C.A.M.P. Corsa Ice Axe is one of the lightest ice axes on the market, making it a top choice among weight-conscious backpackers and mountaineers who need the ability to self-arrest while crossing glaciers and steep snowfields.
Enlightened Equipment Visp Rain jacket Review
Enlightened Equipment Visp Rain jacket Review
The Enlightened Equipment Visp (men’s / women’s) is among the best value ultralight jackets on the market for its price, protection, and adjustability. We’ve worn this jacket for hundreds of miles, including stints in Colorado’s monsoon season and the first snow of the year in the Pacific Northwest. We hope our experience helps you decide if the Visp is the right jacket for you.
Zpacks 7×9 Flat Tarp Review
Zpacks 7×9 Flat Tarp Review
f you’re looking for the lightest possible shelter that doesn’t compromise on space, the ZPacks 7×9 Flat Tarp is just about as light as they come. This minimal rectangular tarp packs down small, provides a ton of room for a single hiker, and is a bit more affordable than other tarps in its weight class.
10 Best Hydration Mixes & Electrolyte Powders of 2024
10 Best Hydration Mixes & Electrolyte Powders of 2024
Sip, sip, hooray! We’ve trail-tested the most flavorful, nutritious, and delicious hydration mixes out there so you can stay fueled up on your adventures.
10 Best Stuff Sacks of 2024
10 Best Stuff Sacks of 2024
Toiletries, electronics, extra clothes, food – all the little bits and bobs in your backpack can become a mess if you don’t have a way…