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Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

Milk & Whiskey Chaser Sun Shirt Review
woman hiking with backpacking pack on in pine forest

Milk & Whiskey Chaser Sun Shirt Review

Sun protection, soft hand-feel, and incredible fit made this sun shirt earn a top spot on our guide to the best sun shirts.
Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Long Sleeve Hoody Sun Shirt Review
Hiker looking at friend during conversation

Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Long Sleeve Hoody Sun Shirt Review

A great pick for staying comfortable in the sun, this lightweight, heavenly soft sun shirt provides excellent sun protection, good breathability and wicking.
Best Sun Shirts of 2025
Woman in floral sun shirt looking out at view of foothills in high desert detting

Best Sun Shirts of 2025

We rooted through outdoor brands for the best sun protective shirts and then put the top ten through tough adventures and many miles to give you the most complete guide to the best sun shirts for hiking.
Outdoor Research Echo Sun Shirt Review
woman hiking with pack on in high desert landscape

Outdoor Research Echo Sun Shirt Review

The ultimate lightweight sun shirt that features excellent breathability and wicking powers. Long loved by CleverHiker thru-hiking staff, this is the top you want when you only have one shirt in your pack.
Free Fly Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie Sun Shirt Review
woman hiking with day pack in rocky high desert landscape

Free Fly Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie Sun Shirt Review

Perfect for taking into town, this shirt is flattering and has an irresistible silky fabric with a UPF 20+ rating so you can stay out all day.
Free Fly Bamboo Shade Hoodie Sun Shirt Review
woman hiking in high desert

Free Fly Bamboo Shade Hoodie Sun Shirt Review

This ultra-comfortable sun shirt is a solid choice for casual hikers seeking reliable sun protection on cool, sunny days. While it doesn’t have the high-tech features of some top-rated options, it offers great value for the price.
Minus 33 Micro Weight Woolverino 1/4 Zip Sun Hoodie Review
woman hiking with backpacking pack on through high desert

Minus 33 Micro Weight Woolverino 1/4 Zip Sun Hoodie Review

This breathable, lightweight sun shirt features a wool-based fabric that handles changing temperatures (even when sweaty) like a pro.
Arc’teryx Women’s Taema / Men’s Cormac Hoody Sun Shirt Review
woman hiking and running through high desert

Arc’teryx Women’s Taema / Men’s Cormac Hoody Sun Shirt Review

A CleverHiker favorite, this ultralight, breathable, quick-drying, and anti-odor treated sun shirt is the champion of summer and winter outings.
Best Power Banks for Backpacking of 2025
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 2025

Supercharge your backcountry adventures with our guide to the most portable, dependable, and lightweight power banks out there.
Best Hiking Socks of 2025
Closeup of a hiker's feet in the Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew socks and Salomon X Ultra shoes on the rim of the Grand Canyon

Best Hiking Socks of 2025

Keep blisters at bay with the perfect pair of well-cushioned hiking socks. Check out our top picks to pamper your feet on your next backpacking adventure.
Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants Review

Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants Review

These are the ultimate ultralight and waterproof rain pants ideal for thru-hikes and wet trail travels.
Montbell Versalite Rain Pants Review

Montbell Versalite Rain Pants Review

If you want to be ultralight in all conditions, then you need to know Montbell. These rain pants are perfect for active adventurers seeking lightweight, durable gear.
Outdoor Research Men’s Foray / Women’s Aspire Rain Pants Review
Closeup of someone wearing the Outdoor Research Foray pants on a snowy trail.

Outdoor Research Men’s Foray / Women’s Aspire Rain Pants Review

A perfect companion to a rainy hike, bike, or campout, these rain pants are designed with thoughtful features to keep you happy and dry while the weather tries to do the opposite.
7 Best Running Hydration Vests & Packs of 2025
Runner wearing a Black Diamond Women's Distance 4 Hydration Vest

7 Best Running Hydration Vests & Packs of 2025

Whether you’re a speedster or a slow poke, this review of the best running vests has you covered. Our team of experts has run through the mountain of options to recommend their top picks.
REI Rainier Rain Pants Review
Closeup of someone wearing the REI Rainier rain pants.

REI Rainier Rain Pants Review

These rain pants provide dependable waterproofing and breathability at an affordable price. Lightweight yet durable, they feature adjustable cuffs, an elastic waistband, and a simple design perfect for hiking and casual outdoor adventures. A budget-friendly option for staying dry in wet conditions.
Outdoor Research Helium Rain Pants Review
A hiker sitting on a mossy old growth log in the Outdoor Research Helium Rain Pants

Outdoor Research Helium Rain Pants Review

Lightweight, waterproof, and breathable rain pants designed for ultimate packability and reliable protection in any weather—ideal for outdoor adventures.
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