Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

Best Hiking Shoes for Kids of 2026

Best Hiking Shoes for Kids of 2026

Last Updated: August 18, 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.

Best Winter Boots for Men of 2026

A closeup of the leather of winter hiking boots.

Best Winter Boots for Men of 2026

Last Updated: August 17, 2026

We’ve covered hundreds of miles on and off trail to bring you the best winter boots available — from heavy-duty options to some closer to insulated running shoes.

Best First Aid Kits for Hiking of 2026

The HART Extended First Aid Kit on a rock with moss and ferns

Best First Aid Kits for Hiking of 2026

Last Updated: August 14, 2026

We never venture into the wilderness without at least a basic first aid kit. A small selection of supplies and some know-how will keep you safe in the backcountry.

Best Stuff Sacks of 2026

Best Stuff Sacks of 2026

Last Updated: August 12, 2026

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 to effectively store them.

Best Tent Stakes of 2026

A backpacker's hand holding a set of Vargo Titanium Shepherds Hook tent stakes in his hand with a NEMO tent in the background

Best Tent Stakes of 2026

Last Updated: August 7, 2026

Though they may seem trivial, tent stakes are vital to keeping your shelter secure – a sudden midnight storm will quickly remind you how important they really are.

Best Winter Ice Cleats & Traction Devices 2026

A hiker wearing the Hillsound Flexsteps with trail running shoes

Best Winter Ice Cleats & Traction Devices 2026

Last Updated: August 6, 2026

Whether you’re trekking in the depths of winter or traversing north-facing slopes in spring, a pair of traction devices offers surefootedness and peace of mind in slick conditions.

Best Winter Boots for Women of 2026

All the boots we tested are lined up on top of the snow with mountains in the background.

Best Winter Boots for Women of 2026

Last Updated: August 4, 2026

We’ve braved the winter chill to find top-notch boots that blend function with fashion. These winter wonders will keep you stomping away with confidence.

Best 4-Season Tents of 2026

The Samaya 2.0 tent pitched on snow with evergreen trees and panoramic views of rugged mountain peaks in the background.

Best 4-Season Tents of 2026

Last Updated: July 31, 2026

The fun doesn’t stop when snow starts to fall. All of our top-rated winter tent picks are trail-tested in the mountains so you can find a trustworthy shelter for 4-season adventuring.

Best Hiking Sandals for Men of 2026

Close up image from knees down of a person ascending a steep sandy rock in hiking sandals

Best Hiking Sandals for Men of 2026

Last Updated: July 30, 2026

From buttery trails to talus fields, we put the best hiking sandals out there to the test. Whether you want comfort, traction, or versatility, you’ll find the pair you’re looking for here before getting outside.

Best Winter Jackets for Women of 2026

Best Winter Jackets for Women of 2026

Last Updated: July 29, 2026

We tested this year’s finest winter jackets and parkas in Colorado, Montana, and British Columbia to find the most stylish, toasty, and windproof layers for taking on driving snow, wintery mixes, and sub-zero temperatures.

Best Winter Gloves of 2026

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.