Gear
Best Synthetic Jackets for Backpacking of 2025
While down insulation still owns the field for thru-hiking jackets, synthetic-filled layers are making a dent in the category. As synthetic technologies become more eco-friendly and improve their
Best Down Jackets for Backpacking of 2025
Your insulating midlayer is a key component of your backpacking setup, and rarely should you hit the trail without an insulation layer wedged in your pack. Here are our top...
The Best Backpacking Gear Deals of the Week (2.14.25)
Another week, another round of killer deals for backpackers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're gearing up for a thru-hike, training for your next trail race, or just looking to...
The Best Deals for Hikers From Hyperlite Mountain Gear’s Biggest Sale of the Year
The following is a sponsored post brought to you by Hyperlite Mountain Gear. Save 20% sitewide February 11 - 21 during Hyperlite Mountain Gear's biggest sale of the year. Black...
Zpacks Pivot Solo Lite Review: The Most Livable Ultralight Shelter Yet?
For the past few years, innovation in the ultralight tent market has felt a little stagnant. Material improvements slowed, and the designs themselves started to feel typical. Recently, though, the
The Best Hiking Shoes for Thru-Hiking in 2025
Think of your hiking shoes as an investment in your future happiness. Choosing the right pair can mean the difference between success and failure on a thru-hike. And, more generally,...
The Best Trail Runners for Thru-Hiking in 2025
Are you planning a long-distance backpacking trip? If so, it’s essential that you choose the best trail runners for thru-hiking (if trail runners are your jam*). Think of this as...
Best Sleeping Pads for Thru-Hiking in 2025
It may not be as sexy as a tent, backpack, or sleeping bag, but the humble backpacking sleeping pad is just as critical (and often just as expensive) as the...
The Best Backpacking Gear Deals of the Week (1.31.25)
I’ve scoped out the best deals at REI this week for backpackers, campers, runners, and weekend warriors. If there's one thing I love more than spending time outside, it's finding...
The Best Backpacking Quilts of 2025
Quilts are all the rage these days, and it's easy to see why. They're more streamlined than sleeping bags, and when used correctly, they can still be incredibly warm and...