Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides
Men’s Altra Lone Peak 8 Review
![A hiker poses at an overlook with large red rocks in the background.](https://www.cleverhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_1050_2-1024x683.jpg)
Men’s Altra Lone Peak 8 Review
See why these are some of our favorite zero-drop hiking shoes from day hikes to thru-hikes.
MSR FreeLite 2 Tent Review
![](https://www.cleverhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Eagle-Cap-_23-171-1024x683.jpg)
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.
The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Arizona Trail
![](https://www.cleverhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/AZT-50-1024x682.jpg)
The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Arizona Trail
A hike on the Arizona Trail (AZT) is a truly unique experience. The AZT will take you on an unforgettable 800-mile trek like no other through an ever-changing landscape.
A Complete Guide to Hiking the Grand Sawtooth Loop
![](https://www.cleverhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Sawtooths-30-1024x683.jpeg)
A Complete Guide to Hiking the Grand Sawtooth Loop
The Grand Sawtooth Loop in Idaho is a little off the beaten path for those who want to step away from crowded national parks. It’s an exhilarating and burly trail with majestic passes and towering peaks galore.
Best Hiking Shoes for Kids of 2024
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Best Hiking Shoes for Kids of 2024
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.
Big Agnes Tiger Wall vs. NEMO Hornet OSMO vs. MSR FreeLite
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Big Agnes Tiger Wall vs. NEMO Hornet OSMO vs. MSR FreeLite
We compare and score three of the top backpacking tents on the market to determine which one is the best overall.
Hiking Boot & Shoe Soles for Grip, Traction & Different Terrains
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Hiking Boot & Shoe Soles for Grip, Traction & Different Terrains
The soles of your shoes are literally where the rubber meets the trail. Learn more about what to look for in the bottoms of your hiking footwear in this in-depth article on grip, traction, and terrain.
How to Lace Hiking Boots & Shoes
![A hiker in a red rain jacket sitting on a rock to tie his Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots](https://www.cleverhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/How-to-lace-hiking-boots-and-shoes-16x9-1-1024x576.jpg)
How to Lace Hiking Boots & Shoes
How many ways can you tie your shoes? If you like to hike, you’ll need more than one.
How to Clean Hiking Shoes & Boots
![Closeup of a hiker's feet crossing a creek in a muddy pair of Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 hiking boots](https://www.cleverhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Clean-Shoes-Boots-02-e1705686205553-1024x577.jpg)
How to Clean Hiking Shoes & Boots
In this guide, we walk you through how to take care of your footwear – so your footwear can take care of you.
Men’s La Sportiva Spire GTX Review
![Closeup of a hiker tying the laces of the La Sportiva Spire GTX hiking shoes](https://www.cleverhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Shoe-Tying-2-1024x683.jpeg)
Men’s La Sportiva Spire GTX Review
The La Sportiva Spire GTX have received high praise in both the fastpacking and hiking worlds – but do they live up to the buzz?
Zpacks Duplex Zip Tent Review
![A hiker adjusting the Zpacks Duplex Zip in a plateau with mountains in the background.](https://www.cleverhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/AZT_SOBO-3-1024x576.jpeg)
Zpacks Duplex Zip Tent Review
We put 500 miles on the Zpacks Duplex Zip to see how it stacks up against the best ultralight tents on the market.
Durston X-Mid Pro 2 Tent Review
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Durston X-Mid Pro 2 Tent Review
If you’ve been in the ultralight scene for more than a minute, chances are you’ve heard about the Durston X-Mid Pro 2.
100 Best Gifts For Hikers, Backpackers & Campers 2024
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100 Best Gifts For Hikers, Backpackers & Campers 2024
Give the gift that gets them outside with our guide to the best gifts for hikers and backpackers.
Best Trekking Poles of 2024
![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](https://www.cleverhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Trekking-Poles-16x9-shallow-depth-of-field-1024x576.jpg)
Best Trekking Poles of 2024
We’ve rigorously tested these trekking poles over thousands of miles to find the sturdiest and most lightweight options. Get more stability on tough terrain…
Best Rain Jackets of 2024
![A backpacker wearing an orange Outdoor Research Helium rain jacket in Yosemite National Park](https://www.cleverhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Rain-Jackets-16x9-1-1024x576.jpg)
Best Rain Jackets of 2024
From drizzles to downpours, we’ve got your back. Our team of seasoned hikers weathered the storm to find the best rain jackets for performance and protection.
ZPacks Arc Blast Backpack Review
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ZPacks Arc Blast Backpack Review
At a mere 16.4 ounces, the ZPacks Arc Blast is an ultralight backpackers dream come true. The ZPacks Arc Blast is one of…