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Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

Men’s Scarpa Ribelle Cross 2 Review
Hiker using trekking poles on a rocky, grassy slope.

Men’s Scarpa Ribelle Cross 2 Review

Published: June 8, 2026
This rugged mountain hiking shoe delivers technical performance and excellent traction for those tackling challenging alpine terrain, rocky scrambles, and muddy backcountry trails.
LifeStraw Peak Squeeze Water Filter Review
A hiker inserts a water filter into a water bladder.

LifeStraw Peak Squeeze Water Filter Review

Published: June 8, 2026
This adaptable squeeze filter effortlessly produces safe and delicious water in the backcountry and is compatible with a range of different water bottles and bladders.
Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter Review
A water filter on a rock.

Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter Review

Published: June 8, 2026
This pump filter comes in a lightweight package while eliminating the hassle of squeezing water bladders or waiting on chemical treatments to work.
Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags of 2026
A man sits up in a sleeping bag with the hood over his head. He is smiling and looking off camera.

Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags of 2026

Last Updated: June 2, 2026
Our list of trail-tested backpacking sleeping bags will help you find a cozy sack for everything from summer summits to winter wanderings.
Western Mountaineering TerraLite 25 Review
a hiker shakes out a blue sleeping bag

Western Mountaineering TerraLite 25 Review

Published: June 2, 2026
This roomy semi-rectangular sleeping bag offers far more freedom of movement than a traditional mummy bag while still maintaining low weight, solid warmth, and excellent packability.
Teton Sports Trailhead 20 Sleeping Bag Review
a hiker holds an orange and grey sleeping bag

Teton Sports Trailhead 20 Sleeping Bag Review

Published: June 2, 2026
For mild, summer conditions, this budget sleeping bag will complete your backpacking sleep system at an absolute minimal cost. Say goodbye to high costs and hello to the great outdoors.
Best Backpacking Stoves of 2026
The MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe backpacking stove in front of a jagged mountain with red bands

Best Backpacking Stoves of 2026

Last Updated: May 29, 2026
We’ve spent years cooking up this list of the best backpacking stoves around so backcountry chefs and Cup Noodle connoisseurs can find their perfect match.
Jetboil Stash Cooking System Review
Close-up image of a hiker cooking with a pot and backpacking stove.

Jetboil Stash Cooking System Review

Published: May 29, 2026
This premium ultralight cook system is powerful, efficient, and ready to go right out of the box – perfect for quick boils and simple backcountry meals.
MSR Switch Backpacking Stove Review
Close-up image of an MSR stove on top of a fuel canister with a view of trees and the sky above.

MSR Switch Backpacking Stove Review

Published: May 29, 2026
Fast boiling, efficient fuel use, and versatile cooking modes make this backpacking stove a strong choice for hikers who want more than just basic water boiling in the backcountry.
TOAKS Titanium Backpacking Stove Review
Close-up image of a hand turning the fuel control on a backpacking stove.

TOAKS Titanium Backpacking Stove Review

Published: May 29, 2026
If you’re an ultralighter, this minimalist backpacking stove might just be your new go-to. It’s light, affordable, durable, and gets the job done without any fuss.
Best Multitools of 2026
Top-down view of a variety of colorful multitools on a black background

Best Multitools of 2026

Last Updated: May 28, 2026
Equip yourself like a pro and elevate your everyday carry with our definitive guide to the best multitools of the year based on price, number of functions, and durability.
Roxon Flex Multitool Review
A hand holds a multi tool with all of its implements spread

Roxon Flex Multitool Review

Published: May 28, 2026
With an innovative modular system and excellent ease of use, this multitool made us rethink what we want from our multitools.
Rocktol Gen R Multitool Review
A multi tool with its implements spread wide sits on a desk surrounded by plants

Rocktol Gen R Multitool Review

Published: May 28, 2026
We thought highly of this feature-packed tool, loving its combination of quality, price, and performance. It’s our go-to recommendation for a general-purpose multitool that anyone can be happy with.
Nextool F12 Multitool Review
A multi tool on a desk with the knife extended

Nextool F12 Multitool Review

Published: May 28, 2026
With big pliers and big scissors packed into a seriously compact frame, we were delighted by this little multitool, and would easily reach for it to adorn our pockets any day of the week.
Best Running Hydration Vests & Packs of 2026
Runner wearing a Black Diamond Women's Distance 4 Hydration Vest

Best Running Hydration Vests & Packs of 2026

Last Updated: May 26, 2026
Whether you’re looking for a hydration companion for race day or a workhorse storage solution to keep you powering along in the mountains, we’ve got the running vest for you.
Best Hiking Sandals for Women of 2026
Our tester wearing the Earth Runner Alpha sandals on a hike.

Best Hiking Sandals for Women of 2026

Last Updated: May 25, 2026
Whether you’re heading out for a paddle or setting off on a grand hiking adventure, your perfect pair of sandals is on our list.
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