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Hiking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

Best Base Layers of 2026
a hiker in a hooded black base layer stands with a coffee mug in an alpine environment

Best Base Layers of 2026

Last Updated: April 28, 2026
We’ve got your layering system covered starting with our trail-tested and reviewed guide to the best base layers around.
Evernew Water Carry Hydration Bladder Review
Close up of a hiker holding a lightweight hydration bladder.

Evernew Water Carry Hydration Bladder Review

Published: April 24, 2026
Designed and manufactured in Japan, this lightweight and minimalist water bladder is perfect for moving fast in the mountains.
HydraPak Velocity Hydration Bladder Review
A hiker walks on a sandy trail in the desert while drinking out of a hydration hose.

HydraPak Velocity Hydration Bladder Review

Published: April 24, 2026
HydraPak’s lightest complete hydration system shaves ounces and we liked that and more about it.
Best Backpacking Chairs of 2026
A man relaxes with his legs out and hands behind his head on a small backpacking chair.

Best Backpacking Chairs of 2026

Last Updated: April 22, 2026
Whether you see them as a luxury or a necessity, the best backpacking chairs make campsites more comfortable. These 10 chairs are worth the weight.
Osprey Raven 14/Raptor 14 Hydration Pack Review
A woman walks across a bridge with her day pack.

Osprey Raven 14/Raptor 14 Hydration Pack Review

Last Updated: April 22, 2026
This is a small, well-organized hydration pack, specifically designed for biking, but it still fits the bill for day hiking.
Best Hydration Bladders of 2026
A hiker drinks from a water bladder without a hose. A desert sunset is in the background.

Best Hydration Bladders of 2026

Last Updated: April 21, 2026
We’ve logged miles upon miles on the trails and hours of research to select and test this year’s best hydration bladders.
Osprey Mira 24/Manta 24 Hydration Pack Review
A woman stands on a trail showing the front of her hydration pack.

Osprey Mira 24/Manta 24 Hydration Pack Review

Last Updated: April 17, 2026
This is a mid-sized pack perfect for longer day hikes, bike rides, and outdoor adventures, featuring a breathable back panel, adjustable torso, easy-to-use compartments, and a rain cover.
CamelBak Cloud Walker 18 Hydration Pack Review
A woman hikes, a long trail wearing her hydration pack.

CamelBak Cloud Walker 18 Hydration Pack Review

Published: April 17, 2026
This is a simple, lightweight, minimalist, and affordable unisex hydration pack that is easy to take on the go.
Best Hiking Socks of 2026
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 2026

Last Updated: April 15, 2026
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.
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.
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.
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.
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