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Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

Are Hiking Sandals Really a Thing?

Are Hiking Sandals Really a Thing?

Boots and shoes are still mainstays of the trail, but hiking sandals have a lot of merits that might just make you a convert.
How to Poop in the Woods: A Backpacker’s Guide
the tools for pooping in the woods (trowel, hand sanitizer and a baggie of toilet paper

How to Poop in the Woods: A Backpacker’s Guide

When nature calls, we’ve got steps to turn a backcountry bathroom break into a five-star experience. Plus, properly disposing of your #2 keeps our wild places and waterways clean and pristine.”
Women’s New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 Review
Close up of the New Balance Fresh Foam Hiero 9 with ferns

Women’s New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V9 Review

With extra thick cushion from the Fresh Foam X in the midsole, and an extra sticky Vibram outsole these shoes will have you bounding down the trails.
Women’s Topo Athletic MTN Racer 4 Trail Runner Review
close up of a runner holding the Topo Athletic MTN Racer 4

Women’s Topo Athletic MTN Racer 4 Trail Runner Review

This shoe offers incredible traction and comfort by combining a high-cushion midsole with a Vibram outsole, deep lugs, and a secure yet roomy fit.
Women’s Topo Athletic Traverse Trail Runner Review
close up of the Topo Athletic Traverse

Women’s Topo Athletic Traverse Trail Runner Review

Truly skilled on all trail types, this durable, low-drop, moderately cushioned shoe provides plenty of space for your toes.
Women’s Altra Experience Wild 2 Trail Runner Review
close up of Hiker in the Altra Experience Wild 2 climbing Mount Monadnock, NH

Women’s Altra Experience Wild 2 Trail Runner Review

Trail ready with plenty of room for your toes and thick cushioning this shoe will take you from trail to summit and back again.
Women’s Altra Lone Peak 9+ Trail Runner Review
Runner on a bridge wearing the Altra Lone Peak 9+

Women’s Altra Lone Peak 9+ Trail Runner Review

The original Foot Shaped toe box trail shoe is in its ninth edition, sporting a refined upper without compromising its renowned roominess. Luggy tread and moderate cushion make this a contender for hikers, runners, and backpackers alike.
Best Trail Running Shoes for Women of 2026
Nike Women's Pegasus 5 close up

Best Trail Running Shoes for Women of 2026

We hit the ground running to find the best trail runners for every type of terrain. From mountain ridges to forest paths, we’ll help you find the right shoe for you.
A Guide to Hiking in Torres del Paine: W, O, and Q Treks

A Guide to Hiking in Torres del Paine: W, O, and Q Treks

If it’s your first time visiting Patagonia, Torres del Paine should be on your itinerary. Here’s how to enjoy some of the best trekking in the world:
Titcomb Basin Backpacking Guide – Wind River Range, WY

Titcomb Basin Backpacking Guide – Wind River Range, WY

The Wind River Range, or the Winds, as they’re commonly known, are jammed with bucket-list day hikes and backpacking trips that reward you with epic views and unbelievable beauty.
A Guide to Backpacking & Hiking in Patagonia

A Guide to Backpacking & Hiking in Patagonia

We’ve been fortunate enough to hike and backpack extensively in Patagonia. Here’s what we’ve learned about this magical region after many years of travels to South America.
Santa Cruz Trek, Peru – A Guide to Hiking the Cordillera Blanca

Santa Cruz Trek, Peru – A Guide to Hiking the Cordillera Blanca

Nestled in the white-peaked Cordillera Blanca range in the Andes, the classic 4-day Santa Cruz backpacking trip may be one of the most beautiful treks in the world. Here’s how to hike this overlooked hiking mecca north of Lima, Peru.
Does Bear Spray Really Work?

Does Bear Spray Really Work?

You’ve packed a can of bear spray and are heading off to your favorite wildlife-populated backcountry. But somewhere in the back…
Moon Lence Portable Camping Chair Review
a backpacker stares across a canyon while sitting comfortably in the Moon Lence Portable chair

Moon Lence Portable Camping Chair Review

This chair is affordable and comfortable, but there are tradeoffs, too. Learn more in our first-hand review of this budget option.
Gossamer Gear Thinlight Foam Pad Review
The Gossamer Gear Thinlight pad set up as a recliner with its backrest leaning against a log

Gossamer Gear Thinlight Foam Pad Review

Sit pad. Sleep pad. Yoga mat. Lounger. This backcountry foam pad isn’t a classic backpacking chair, but it can pull off a lot.
Therm-a-Rest Z-Seat Pad Review
close up of the thin foam cushion pods of the Therm-a-Rest Z-Seat sit pad

Therm-a-Rest Z-Seat Pad Review

Backpacking demands redefining “chair.” Thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers might be tempted to add this sit pad to their must-have list of backcountry luxuries.
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