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Hiking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

MontBell Plasma 1000 Down Parka Full Review
A person wearing the MontBell Plasma 1000 Alpine Down Parka, standing outdoors on a snowy trail while adjusting the front zipper.

MontBell Plasma 1000 Down Parka Full Review

Published: February 5, 2025
Ultralight and incredibly warm, this down jacket is perfect for thru-hikers and backcountry travelers seeking exceptional warmth-to-weight performance for minimalist, three-season adventures.
REI Magma 850 Down Hoodie Review
Person standing in a snowy forest wearing the REI Magma 850 Down Hoody, facing sideways with the hood up.

REI Magma 850 Down Hoodie Review

Published: February 5, 2025
A lightweight, versatile down jacket with great warmth, packability, and thoughtful features. It’s sustainably made and balances performance with comfort, ideal for backpacking or around town.
8000+ Miles Logged: Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Hoody Review
A person sits in a red tent pitched on snow, wearing a lightweight down jacket with snow-covered boots.

8000+ Miles Logged: Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Hoody Review

Published: February 5, 2025
This ultralight and packable down jacket is built for adventure. With an exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio and compact design, it’s the ultimate choice for backpackers, climbers, and anyone pushing the limits outdoors.
Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoodie Review
A person wearing the Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoody with the hood up, surrounded by a snowy forest landscape.

Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoodie Review

Published: February 5, 2025
This rugged down jacket combines high-quality insulation and waterproof fabric for durability and moisture resistance, making it perfect for shoulder-season adventures in light rain, snow, and freezing temperatures. Reliable and versatile.
REI Flash 22 Daypack Review

REI Flash 22 Daypack Review

Published: February 5, 2025
Ultralight and frameless, the REI Flash 22 is one of our top picks – and for an excellent price, too.
Osprey Talon/Tempest 22 Daypack Review
A person wears a backpack facing away from the camera in a snowy setting.

Osprey Talon/Tempest 22 Daypack Review

Published: February 5, 2025
The Osprey Talon 22 and Tempest 20 are ideal for men (Talon) and women (Tempest) who want a versatile, comfortable, fully featured pack.
Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack Review
Close up of a backpack on a person's back in the desert.

Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack Review

Published: February 5, 2025
After 250 miles of testing, the Osprey Daylite Plus earned a spot on our list of the best daypacks for hiking. Here’s why we like it:
Gregory Citro 24 H2O/Juno 24 H2O Review
A closeup of a person wearing a backpack in a wilderness area.

Gregory Citro 24 H2O/Juno 24 H2O Review

Published: February 5, 2025
For a durable pack with a stellar hydration system, look no further than the men’s Gregory Citro 24 H20 and women’s Juno 24 H20.
Six Moon Designs Wy’East Daypack Review
Close up image from behind of a person wearing a backpack.

Six Moon Designs Wy’East Daypack Review

Published: February 5, 2025
Based on 250 miles of testing, we recommend the The Six Moon Designs Wy’East Daypack for minimalists who need space for gear-intensive day hikes.
REI Stormhenge 850 Hybrid Winter Jacket Review
A man snowshoes through a blizzard

REI Stormhenge 850 Hybrid Winter Jacket Review

Published: February 4, 2025
Perfect for hiking or everyday wear, this jacket features responsibly sourced down, breathable fabric, and smart features for all your adventures.
New Favorite: Black Diamond Approach Down Hoody Review
A person adjusting the zipper on the Black Diamond Approach Down Hoody, with the hood up, standing outdoors in a snowy forest setting.

New Favorite: Black Diamond Approach Down Hoody Review

Published: February 3, 2025
We went looking for a jacket that balances warmth and weight without compromising performance, and this one is one of the best.
Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket Review
A person standing in snowy terrain wearing the Rab Microlight Alpine jacket fully zipped with the hood up for maximum protection.

Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket Review

Published: February 3, 2025
Built for cold-weather adventures, this jacket combines 700-fill hydrophobic down with a Pertex Quantum shell for reliable warmth and durability. Ideal for climbing and mountaineering, it’s a top choice for those prioritizing insulation over weight.
Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody Review
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.

Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody Review

Published: February 3, 2025
This versatile down jacket offers warmth, comfort, and weather resistance for cool-weather adventures. Though not the lightest, it excels in moderate conditions and is a reliable choice for everyday use.
Best Budget Down Jacket: REI 650 Review
A man in a blue REI 650 Down Jacket stands with his hands in his pockets, gazing off into the snowy forest during an early winter evening.

Best Budget Down Jacket: REI 650 Review

Published: February 3, 2025
This lightweight, budget-friendly down jacket excels in warmth, packability, and versatility. It is ideal for everyday wear and casual outdoor activities in cooler conditions.
Men’s prAna Brion II Shorts Review
Man walking in woods.

Men’s prAna Brion II Shorts Review

Published: January 31, 2025
We love this pair for its town-to-trail style. When it comes to shorts that transition easily from day hikes to a brewery with friends, this is the one you want.
Vuori Kore Shorts Review
Man walks down a trail in blue shorts.

Vuori Kore Shorts Review

Published: January 31, 2025
These versatile hiking shorts balance comfort, durability, and performance, making them a great choice for trails, travel, and everyday wear.
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