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Hiking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

Lowa Skyterra Women’s Trail Runner Review
Close up of the of the Lowa Skyterra

Lowa Skyterra Women’s Trail Runner Review

This durable shoe has a grippy outsole, breathable upper and maximum cushion. It accommodates wide or high-volume feet and is at home on a wide variety of terrain.
Women’s HOKA Challenger 8 Review
Close up of a runner wearing the Hoka Challenger 8

Women’s HOKA Challenger 8 Review

This shoe is the perfect combination of highly breathable, wide foot friendly, and extra grippy as well as lightweight and comfy.
Women’s Saucony Peregrine 16 Review
A woman adjusts the tongue on her shoe.

Women’s Saucony Peregrine 16 Review

This non-fussy, lightweight, high traction shoe provides maximum performance on a variety of trails. Therefore, it will appeal to a wide array of runners and hikers.
Women’s Topo Terraventure 5 Review
Runner wearing the Topo Terraventure 5

Women’s Topo Terraventure 5 Review

This update to a rockstar shoe features a sturdy build, minimal drop, moderate cushion, and incredible traction that will take you anywhere you want to run.
Best Hiking Fanny Packs of 2026
woman unzipping the hyperlite mountain gear versa fany pack next to a rushing white water river

Best Hiking Fanny Packs of 2026

Fanny packs are making a comeback, and we’re on board. We stuffed these packs full and dragged them through rocks, dirt, and water to see which ones held up best.
REI Trail 2 Waist Pack Review
A blue fanny pack sitting on red dirt overlooking hoodoos in Bryce Canyon National Park.

REI Trail 2 Waist Pack Review

This sleek and versatile fanny pack makes it easy to stay organized while traveling, hiking, or backpacking. Its comfort and styling make it versatile for activities from technical to casual.
Black Diamond Pursuit 6 Waist Pack Review
Close-up of a hiker reaching for snacks stashed inside a blue lumbar pack.

Black Diamond Pursuit 6 Waist Pack Review

This 6-liter waist pack provides exceptional comfort and organization with breathable padding, a spacious main compartment, and water bottle sleeves – great for day hikes and backpacking trips 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’ve run thousands of miles in search of the best trail running shoes to take us from tempo runs to ultras and beyond.
Best Dog Backpacks of 2026
A dog wearing the Ruffwear Approach backpack in front of a snowy lake and marbled mountain peaks

Best Dog Backpacks of 2026

Who doesn’t want their dog to join them on the trail? These dog backpacks allow your four-legged friend to pull their weight on hikes ranging from day trips to backcountry adventures.
Best Water Bottles of 2026
Blue and black HydraPak Flux water bottles fitted with Katadyn BeFree Water Filters in front of the clear-blue McKenzie River

Best Water Bottles of 2026

Whether you’re hoofing it on a multi-day trek or running errands around town, staying hydrated is critical. Our recommendations will point you to the best water bottle for keeping your thirst at bay.
Best Pocket Knives of 2026
Six pocket knives are laid out on a wooden background with blades open to show blade length and shape.

Best Pocket Knives of 2026

Whether you need a lightweight everyday carry or a burly blade for the backcountry, our tested and ranked picks cover every budget and blade type.
Igneous NOBO Water Bottle Review
A water bottle sits on a rock with a forest in the background.

Igneous NOBO Water Bottle Review

Designed with thru-hikers in mind, this lightweight water bottle is practical, flexible, and durable – proving that ultralight doesn’t have to be flimsy or single-use.
Cnoc Outdoors ThruBottle 1000 Water Bottle Review
A close up of an open water bottle.

Cnoc Outdoors ThruBottle 1000 Water Bottle Review

Easy on the budget and pack weight, this water bottle is a thru-hiker’s dream- thanks to its ergonomic build and ultralight design.
Best Fleece Jackets of 2026
A woman unzips the chest pocket on her fleece.

Best Fleece Jackets of 2026

From mountain summits to town, these fleece jackets are our top picks for men and women to layer up for any season, trail, or trip.
Rab Evolute Hoody Review
Woman stands in boxier jacket

Rab Evolute Hoody Review

This lightweight, full-zip fleece jacket features an innovative layering of insulation and jersey fabric to create a durable hoody with incredible heat-retention properties.
Men’s Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts Review
A man stands on a summit with mountain vistas.

Men’s Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts Review

These shorts are made for those who value breathability and weight savings for all: perfect for the thru-hiker or dedicated fast-and-light enthusiast.
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