Hiking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

Best Headlamps of 2026

A backpacker reading a map in his tent at night using the Black Diamond Spot headlamps

Best Headlamps of 2026

Last Updated: April 14, 2026

We’ve trail-tested over 40 of the most promising headlamps on long night hikes, family camping trips, and pre-dawn climbs – so you don’t have to.

Best Rain Jackets of 2026

A man smiles while wearing a rain jacket in the alpine.

Best Rain Jackets of 2026

Last Updated: April 10, 2026

From drizzles to downpours, we’ve got your back. Our team of seasoned hikers weathered the storm to find the best rain jackets for performance and protection.

LuvdBaby Toddler Carrier Backpack Review

Tester wearing the Luvdbaby Premium child carrier while walking through a snowy pine forest with a child seated in the pack.

LuvdBaby Toddler Carrier Backpack Review

Published: April 10, 2026

A framed carrier that punches above its weight on the accessories list, with a sunshade, rain cover, insulated pocket, and diaper pad all included at a budget price.

Osprey Poco Soft Child Carrier Review

Tester hiking in snowy conditions with a child riding in the Osprey Poco Soft, showing the carrier’s back panel and compact shape.

Osprey Poco Soft Child Carrier Review

Published: April 10, 2026

A soft carrier designed with hikers in mind: ripstop nylon construction, a structured hipbelt that actually moves weight to your hips, three carry positions, and a deployable sunshade.

Norrona Trollveggen GORE-TEX Pro Light Review

A rear view of a hiking reclining on a mountain ridge at 12,000 feet in the Norrona trollveggen waterproof jacket

Norrona Trollveggen GORE-TEX Pro Light Review

Published: April 10, 2026

If you’re a guide or beast-mode hiker needing the most rugged, PFAS-free, GORE-TEX shell for high-altitude adventures, the Norrona trollveggen Pro Light may be the best investment.

Best Trekking Poles of 2026

A female backpacker hiking up to the top of a red, rocky mountain pass in Glacier National Park using the REI Flash Carbon trekking poles

Best Trekking Poles of 2026

Last Updated: April 7, 2026

We’ve rigorously tested these trekking poles over thousands of miles to find the sturdiest and most lightweight options. Get more stability on tough terrain…

LEKI Legacy Lite Trekking Poles Review

A person using the Legacy poles and wearing a pack is walking up a trail towards the camera with pinion and juniper trees and a mesa in the background.

LEKI Legacy Lite Trekking Poles Review

Published: April 7, 2026

Affordable trekking poles with comfortable cork grips and ventilated handles that help keep hands cool. A dependable no-frills option for beginners and hikers seeking simple trail support.

Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber Quick Lock Review

A person wearing a backpack and using the cascade poles is walking up a trail towards the camera. There are trees juniper trees in the background.

Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber Quick Lock Review

Published: April 7, 2026

Durable carbon fiber trekking poles with excellent value, versatile accessories, and comfortable cork grips. A great choice for hikers seeking strong performance without paying premium prices.

Petzl ACTIK CORE Headlamp Review

Side close-up of a person wearing a Petzl headlamp over a beanie while adjusting the light with one hand.

Petzl ACTIK CORE Headlamp Review

Last Updated: April 6, 2026

This headlamp is a longtime favorite with bright and reliable performance, simple controls, and a recent upgrade to USB-C charging.

Coast FL97R Headlamp Review

Close-up of the Coast FL95R Headlamp front lens and reflector, resting in dry pine needles.

Coast FL97R Headlamp Review

Published: April 6, 2026

This is a feature-rich headlamp with serious brightness, intuitive beam control, and a warm area light that works as propped up in a tent as it does on your head.

Petzl SWIFT LT Headlamp Review

Close-up of the Petzl Swift headlamp worn around the neck like a necklace, shining light onto a jacket.

Petzl SWIFT LT Headlamp Review

Published: April 6, 2026

This is an ultralight headlamp that earns its place in fast-and-light kits, with a stable fit that stays put at a dead sprint and enough brightness for most trail use.

BioLite Range 500 Headlamp Review

Published: April 6, 2026

This headlamp is light enough for trail runs, tough enough for downpours, and back to fully charged before you finish packing up camp.

Best Hiking Pants for Women 2026

A person is standing on a rock and holding the Distance Carbon trekking poles. The area is rocky with some trees surrounding the wash. There are some rocky, desert peaks in the distance.

Best Hiking Pants for Women 2026

Last Updated: April 2, 2026

From comfort to durability, we tested a variety of hiking pants to find the best options for every adventure. Discover which pants offer the perfect balance of value, mobility, and performance.

Best Rain Pants of 2026

A hiker sitting on a mossy old growth log in the Outdoor Research Helium Rain Pants

Best Rain Pants of 2026

Last Updated: April 1, 2026

We’ve trekked thousands of miles in drizzles, downpours and snow to find the most protective, versatile, and comfy rain pants out there. Any weather is hiking weather with the right gear!

Best Down Jackets of 2026

Front view of a person smiling while wearing the Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody with the hood fully zipped, standing in a snowy landscape with trees in the background.

Best Down Jackets of 2026

Last Updated: March 31, 2026

Down for an adventure? It’s time to layer up! Stay warm, cozy and comfy from city sidewalks to snowy slopes with our guide to the best puffy jackets for men and women.

HIMALI Accelerator Down Jacket Review

A male hiker shows the HIMALI Down Jacket layered underneath his rain jacket on a test hike

HIMALI Accelerator Down Jacket Review

Published: March 20, 2026

This down jacket’s performance and value rank among the best models we’ve tested and reviewed. Find out why this one became a team favorite almost immediately.