Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

10 Best Winter Gloves of 2026

10 Best Winter Gloves of 2026

Last Updated: July 28, 2026

From snow and slush to icy water, we’ve dunked our hands and hiked mile after mile to find which gloves will keep your hands the warmest no matter what winter throws at you.

SOTO New River Pot Review

SOTO New River Pot Review

Published: July 27, 2026

While other cooksets are weighed down with extra bells and whistles, this one gets the job done with a lightweight, compact, and straightforward design.

Best Bear Canisters for Backpacking of 2026

a yellow bear canister sits next to a fire pit with mountains in the background

Best Bear Canisters for Backpacking of 2026

Last Updated: July 24, 2026

Proper food storage is essential in bear country, so we’ve broken down every option to help you choose the best system for your next adventure.

BearVault BV ONE Bear Canister Review

A clear blue bear canister sitting next to some backpacking cooking gear

BearVault BV ONE Bear Canister Review

Published: July 24, 2026

This ultralight, collapsible canister shrinks as you eat and is easier than ever to open but is still building its reputation for security and approval.

Best Hiking Leggings & Tights of 2026

two people sitting on a log, one in blue leggings and one in pastel pink leggings. close-up on just the bottom half. person wearing pink leggings is touching the fabric

Best Hiking Leggings & Tights of 2026

Last Updated: July 22, 2026

Whether you’re hiking to the summit or strolling neighborhood trails with your dog, these tights are up to the task with ample features and durability for hitting the trail.

Best Backpacking Cookware of 2026

Closeup of a backpacker peaking under the lid of the TOAKS Titanium 750ML backpacking pot

Best Backpacking Cookware of 2026

Last Updated: July 21, 2026

Everyone has their own cooking style in the backcountry. Whether you’re a cold soaker or gourmet chef, we’ve tested various cookware to help guide your choice.

GSI Outdoors Bugaboo Camper Ceramic Cookset Review

GSI Outdoors Bugaboo Camper Ceramic Cookset Review

Published: July 21, 2026

For those who don’t mind carrying a little extra weight, this complete cookset is ideal for shared meals and a community experience in the backcountry.

Best Power Banks for Backpacking of 2026

The Iniu 20000 PD power bank sitting on a granite slab while charging a rechargeable Biolite headlamp with the Wallowa Mountains at sunset in the background

Best Power Banks for Backpacking of 2026

Last Updated: July 17, 2026

Supercharge your backcountry adventures with our guide to the most portable, dependable, and lightweight power banks out there.

Lems Switchback Knit Sandal Review

Showing off the grip on a steep pitch of a flatiron scramble in the Lems Switchback Knit sandals.

Lems Switchback Knit Sandal Review

Published: July 13, 2026

These lightweight hiking sandals offer excellent comfort, traction, and versatility with a contoured footbed and colorful styling options perfect for difficult trails or lounging at the beach.

Hoka Infini Hike TC Sandal Review

Published: July 13, 2026

Looking for Vibram quality traction with quick-drying comfort? These comfy hiking sandals are built for summer adventures that involve tough terrain and long days in and out of the water.

Best Ultralight Backpacks of 2026

Best Ultralight Backpacks of 2026

Last Updated: July 10, 2026

Now that you’ve got your ultralight kit dialed in, it’s time to upgrade your pack to match. Dive into our top picks to find which pack is best for you.

Tread Labs Redway Hiking Sandal Review

Standing on a boulder in the Tread Lab Redway sandals in Salt Lake City.

Tread Labs Redway Hiking Sandal Review

Published: July 10, 2026

These highly comfortable sandals are one of our go-to’s for dependable durability, top-notch traction, and around-town comfort, making them perfect for hiking, backpacking, and casual wear on any terrain.

Mountainsmith Zerk 40 Ultralight Backpack Review

A hiker hikes away from the camera wearing a black backpack with red straps.

Mountainsmith Zerk 40 Ultralight Backpack Review

Published: July 10, 2026

This tactical/ultralight hybrid pack features a utility-forward design without the weight penalty, delivering streamlined functionality and true ultralight performance for covering serious miles.

Evolved Supply Co. The Ranger Ultralight Backpack Review

A green backpack with a trekking pole attached sits on red sandstone.

Evolved Supply Co. The Ranger Ultralight Backpack Review

Published: July 10, 2026

Designed by one of the most seasoned thru-hikers out there, this dialed ultralight pack is purpose-built for the fastest and lightest of adventurers.

Black Diamond Beta Light 45 Ultralight Backpack Review

A hiker stands in the woods wearing a backpack with his back to the camera.

Black Diamond Beta Light 45 Ultralight Backpack Review

Published: July 10, 2026

This high-tech ultralight pack offers vest-like comfort, efficient load support, and trustworthy waterproofing for fast, technical adventures in demanding backcountry conditions.

Women’s Brooks Cascadia 19 Review

Runner tying the laces on the Brooks Cascadia 19

Women’s Brooks Cascadia 19 Review

Last Updated: July 9, 2026

These trail runners will provide you with cushioned ground feel, excellent traction, and plenty of room in the toes.