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Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

Aquamira Water Purification Drops Review
Closeup of Part A and Part B Aquamira dropper bottles

Aquamira Water Purification Drops Review

Last Updated: October 30, 2024
These purification drops are a popular water treatment option among backpackers because they’re affordable, lightweight and easy to use.
Zpacks Triplex Classic Tent Review
a backpacker seated next to their zpacks triplex tents near an alpine lake in california

Zpacks Triplex Classic Tent Review

Last Updated: October 30, 2024
One of our favorite ultralight shelters for two people, especially on difficult trips with a lot of elevation gain and long mileage.
Katadyn Steripen Ultra Water Purifier Review
a backpacker with the katadyn steripen inserted into a waterbottle next to a clear blue green river

Katadyn Steripen Ultra Water Purifier Review

Last Updated: October 30, 2024
Like a magic wand, this UV pen kills all the bad stuff (protozoa, bacteria, and viruses) in just 90 seconds.
Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo Tent Review
a thru-hiker getting out of their six moon designs lunar solo tent

Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo Tent Review

Last Updated: October 29, 2024
One of our favorite ultralight one-person tents. It packs down small, it’s easy to pitch, and it’s got a great amount of space inside for a single hiker and their gear. It also holds up better in bad weather and has less condensation issues than some of our other favorite single-wall tents.
NEMO Hornet OSMO 3 Tent Review

NEMO Hornet OSMO 3 Tent Review

Last Updated: October 29, 2024
This tent is a dream for hikers who prioritize weight savings but don’t want to give up livability. The attention to detail is evident in the high-quality construction and plentiful interior pockets.
Zpacks Plex Solo Tent Review
the zpacks plex solo tent pitched near a river on a sunny day

Zpacks Plex Solo Tent Review

Last Updated: October 21, 2024
Go lightweight without sacrificing every creature comfort. At 14.2 oz., this is the most livable one-person tents we’ve ever backpacked with.
Sea to Summit Telos TR2 Tent Review
two backpackers below a volcano in oregon sitting inside their sea to summit telos tent without the rain fly

Sea to Summit Telos TR2 Tent Review

Last Updated: October 18, 2024
This backpacking tent offers standout features, including exceptional headroom, light-dispersing Lightbar, and adaptable ventilation, adding luxury to a rugged design.
REI Midweight Half Zip Base Layer Review
A hiker climbing down some rocks in a desert landscape wearing the REI Midweight Half Zip Base Layer

REI Midweight Half Zip Base Layer Review

Published: October 17, 2024
If you’re only going to buy one base layer, this midweight budget friendly and comfy top is a great option. No base layer can do it all, but this one comes close.
Arc’teryx Rho Heavyweight Zip-Neck Base Layer Review
A hiker zips up the neck on the Arc'teryx Rho Heavyweight Zip Neck base layer. Trees are in the background.

Arc’teryx Rho Heavyweight Zip-Neck Base Layer Review

Published: October 17, 2024
This is a top-of-the-line base layer offering fleece-like warmth for cold campsites, alpine starts, or that long chairlift.
Ortovox 185 Rock’n’wool Base Layer Review
A hiker hiking through the woods with a pack and trekking poles while wearing the Ortovox Rock'n'Wool base layer. Trees and a trail are in the background.

Ortovox 185 Rock’n’wool Base Layer Review

Published: October 17, 2024
This midweight base layer features ultra-soft fine wool fibers and a comfortable, but snug fit making it feel warmer than other base layers of similar weight.
Smartwool Classic All-Season Base Layer Review
A hiker crosses a log wearing a backpack and the Smartwool Classic All-Season base layer. Trees are in the background.

Smartwool Classic All-Season Base Layer Review

Published: October 17, 2024
The value of this base layer is right in the name—“classic” and “all-season.” It utilizes a timeless design without overcomplicating things. The moderate warmth and excellent breathability make it an appropriate choice all year round.
Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie Base Layer Review
A hiker walks down a trail with mountains and trees in the background. He is using trekking poles and wearing a pack and the Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie

Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie Base Layer Review

Published: October 17, 2024
This is an ultimate layer. The one that you will always bring on every trip “just in case” and end up wearing everyday.
Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew Review
A hiker sips from a water bottle while wearing the Patagonia Capilene base layer. Trees are in the background.

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew Review

Published: October 16, 2024
A breathable wool base layer that nails the sweet spot for midweight warmth.
Women’s Houdini Wadi Shorts Review
A gear analyst wearing lightweight blue houdini wadi shorts at sunset on a clear evening

Women’s Houdini Wadi Shorts Review

Published: October 15, 2024
These shorts are a standout choice for those seeking a soft, lightweight, ultra-breathable pair.
Women’s Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts Review

Women’s Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts Review

Published: October 15, 2024
These shorts are incredibly lightweight and packable, ideal for minimalist hikers who need to save space and weight. Despite their featherweight feel, they’re durable with great zip pockets.
Janji 3″ AFO Middle Shorts Review
a women in the desert wearing the janji afo middle shorts in black

Janji 3″ AFO Middle Shorts Review

Published: October 15, 2024
These shorts offer impressive comfort and a lightweight design. They’re a solid value for eco-conscious hikers who prioritize comfort and breathability.
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