Reviews
vote
Aarn Guiding Light 60L
I am writing this review for one simple reason, it works. It works not just as a backpack but as a true weight load carrying system. By way… 
vote
Lowe Alpine Attack MX 42+10
Purchased this pack on the internet at a good price while looking for a winter/ski/climbing pack. Have done only one trip on the north side…
reviewed by Skimanjohn
June 10, 2011
votes
1 comment
Black Diamond Ultra Distance
Summary Designed with the long distance thru-hiker, fast-packing ultra-lighter, or trail runner in mind, the Black Diamond Ultra Distance trekking…
reviewed by trouthunter
June 8, 2011
vote
Kelty Cache Hauler
I have used this pack frame to carry out several elk and deer. It is extremely simple to use....fold down the shelf, put the load on it, snap… 
vote
Figure Four Delta Pack
This small, efficient pack does it all. It carries loads from light trail hiking essentials to heavy cragging gear with aplomb. But mostly,… 
vote
Grand Trunk Ultralight Skeeter Beeter
I purchased the Skeeter Beater as my first entry into hammock hiking. I did not want to spend a lot until I knew if hammocks would work for…
reviewed by Hafford
June 3, 2011
vote
SteriPEN Classic
My SteriPen Classic has been, overall, a pretty handy little device. Remember that it is only for certain circumstances — it's not good for… 
vote
DeLorme Earthmate PN-60
I bought this unit mainly as a precaution, to use with a paper map in the backcountry around the world. i was very impressed with the unit's… 
vote
ALPS Mountaineering Chaos 3
I've been needing a replacement for my 12+ yr old Sierra Designs Alpha tent. It has served me well but it's starting to deteriorate from 300+… vote
OtterBox 1000
Some facts: Dimensions: 4.5 x 2.75 x 1.5 inches Inside dimensions: 4.0 x 2.5 x 1.0 inches Weight: 4 ounces My likes: - Virtually indestructible…
reviewed by Callahan
May 25, 2011
vote
The North Face Ultra 104 GTX XCR
These shoes are indestructible! Bloody comfortable, can walk all day with a heavy pack too. Great for walking around cities when traveling to. 
vote
Alpine Design Hiker Biker II
I recently purchased the Alpine Design Hiker Biker II one man tent and had a chance to break it in. This is not the Hiker Biker. The main tent… vote
Aarn Marathon Magic 20L
This is an older version of the current, 22l model.I borrowed one off a friend for an intense, 2-day backpack over a series of peaks in the…
reviewed by Jas
May 21, 2011
vote
REI Kimtah Jacket
The REI Kimtah was my final decision after a lot of research this spring. I had a 2005 Sierra Designs Hurricane rain jacket that didn't ventilate…
reviewed by humble_67
May 14, 2011
vote
Alpina Lite Terrain
Alpina ski review I bought the Alpina Lite Terrain Skis in 2010 for an intended trip on the Sierra Haute Route. This is an ambitious route through…
reviewed by Bob Ferrari
May 14, 2011
votes
NEMO Tenshi
I just got back from a successful climb on the West Ridge of Mt Hunter in Alaska. This route was beefy. I used the Tenshi during the 6 days… vote
Icebreaker Hopper Lite
I first saw this t-shirt on the 2011 Backpacker Editor's Choice awards. I found it hard to believe that any t-shirt would be worth $75. You…
reviewed by humble_67
May 13, 2011
vote
Osprey Aether 60
Excellent pack for 2-5 day walks. Close to back fit, very stable, very light but not made of flimsy materials. Had the hipbelt heat-moulded,… 
vote
Raichle Mountain Trail XT GTX
I just bought my second pair a few months ago and love them. I had bought the similar boots to these back in 2004, and they were the greatest… vote
Big Agnes Yampa 40°
I purchased this Yampa to replace a worn Marmot bag. It is extremely lightweight and durable. It has been on many trips with me, it has kept… 
vote
Therm-a-Rest Trekker Lounge
Awesome piece of equipment wouldn't go out without it. The best feature is you don't have to remove your pad from the chair ever just fold and… 
vote
Polar S520
I really didn't know what category this wrist watch fitness device would be considered under. But, here goes. I got this model Polar Fitness/…
reviewed by N2DaWild
May 8, 2011
vote
Gregory Palisade 80
I used this in the Olympic National Forest in 2008 for a 5 day trek. The Gregory suspension and hip belt were more than comfortable. Having…
reviewed by humble_67
May 4, 2011
votes
Soto Muka
Here is a video review of the new high tech Soto Muka OD-1NP stove.
HJ
reviewed by hikin_jim
May 3, 2011
vote
Sea to Summit X-Mug
I love this cup. It is light (2.4 ounces) but not completely lightweight compared to ordinary plastic cups. The advantage is the collapsibility.
reviewed by N2DaWild
May 2, 2011
vote
Kelty Noah's Tarp 12
I have had Noah's Tarp 12 for a couple of years now. This is a very light and adaptable tent for the backcountry. Since I live in the Colorado… 
vote
MSR Alpine Bottle
A couple of quick pros/cons for you skimmers and then some meat: Pros: MSR Quality and Customer Service Durable Design - Both lid and bottle…
reviewed by Cleric
April 30, 2011
vote
Van Gorkom Custom Hiking Boots
I believe I've put Charles Van Gorkom's hiking boots through the test. I've owned them for almost 3 years now and have hiked up some 37 Adirondack… 
vote
Patagonia Nano Puff Pullover
Very happy with this lightweight, relatively inexpensive warmth layer. It packs down small and tight, is a very pleasant pillow, and functions… 
vote
Deuter Aircontact 65+10
The first pack I ever bought was an Aircontact 65+10, and to date it's still my favourite out of all the packs I've owned, I had it for four… 
vote
Seattle Sports Pocket Bucket
Strange thing to review, but I find this to be a nifty little piece of gear. The Seattle Sports Pocket Bucket is just that, a bucket that folds…
reviewed by Explorer Robby
April 25, 2011
vote
White Box Stove
I have used my whitebox stove now on my AT thruhike 150 miles and still ticking. It's a great stove to eliminate weight and just use for heating…
reviewed by denis daly
April 25, 2011
vote
Cold Steel SRK
The SRK (Search & Rescue Knife) is a phenomenally tough knife from the Cold Steel company. It has a 6" blade and about 10 " over all. I…
reviewed by mountainman_270
April 24, 2011
vote
Columbia Daska Pass OT
This is a good boot, which once broken in is comfortable and posses good traction in most conditions. I've had mine for about 6 months and they've…
reviewed by mountainman_270
April 24, 2011
votes
Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape
I purchased the Gatewood Cape Poncho-Tarp with the Serenity Net Tent interior screen-tent with bathtub floor. I love this concept, and in practice…
reviewed by Scott Etienne
April 23, 2011
votes
SteriPEN Traveler
by now, the technology is no mystery - UV light kills the DNA in whatever bacteria, protozoans, even viruses may be in your water bottle. …
reviewed by andrew f.
April 21, 2011
vote
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL4
I have a Copper Spur UL3 and now a UL4. I thought the 4 would be a wider 3. It has some differences. There are a couple of differences. The… 
vote
Jetboil Sol Ti
Hello Everybody,I finally got my hands on the Jetboil Sol Ti - which was the first Jetboil I have purchased for myself. I have purchased them…
reviewed by abela
April 20, 2011
vote
Granite Gear Round Rock Solid
lightweight, durable, effective. couldn't ask for anything more in a compression stuff sack. I have used one for several years for sleeping…
reviewed by andrew f.
April 15, 2011
votes
Starbucks VIA Ready Brew
I am a "one cup a day" guy, a good morning jolt is all I need. These little packets provide plenty of punch, and with its contents darn near…
reviewed by android
April 14, 2011
vote
Terra Nova Explorer
Have owned one (Terra Nova Explorer) for six years now and use it a number of times a year. Been to France, Germany and England including Derbyshire,… vote
Coleman Stainless Steel Flask
It's a flask. What else needs to be said. Perfect for ball games, bars and clubs (if you don't wanna pay their prices), camping/hiking, school,…
reviewed by Captain
April 14, 2011
vote
Kelty Teton 2
I love this tent. I have used it for years up in Montana and down in Oregon. It makes for a pretty intimate time for two folks though. I've…
reviewed by Kenneth yarus
April 13, 2011
vote
Gregory Z40
I love this pack! I was looking for a pack that could get small enough for a day pack but also get big enough to hold my gear for an overnighter. 
vote
Brasslite Turbo II-D
This is a great backpacking stove!!! I use denatured alcohol and the stove performs as advertised. I've boiled 16 oz of ambient temperature…
reviewed by Chris Pisciotta
April 11, 2011
vote
Mountain House Beef Stroganoff
This meal tastes great! Just the right amount of seasoning, and the meat/noodles taste like high-end chow.
reviewed by android
April 11, 2011
votes
Starbucks VIA Ready Brew
Fantastic!! This is instant coffee for coffee lovers. Actual strong coffee on the trail. I've tried many other instant coffees before and they…
reviewed by Jon L.
April 10, 2011
vote
MSR BlackLite Gourmet Cookset
For one person this is definitely beyond need of the minimalist but awesome for the "Gourmet Camp Cooker" for one or more people. So take…
reviewed by Callahan
April 9, 2011
vote
Optimus Svea
Bought one in 1967 and it has never failed me. I had a love affair with MSR stoves when white gas got hard to find (see my review of the MSR… 
vote
Osprey Kestrel 38
This is just about the perfect pack for me. As an archaeologist who does field survey walking and excavation in Asia, this pack has served my… 
votes
Valandré Shocking Blue
Well, here’s a review telling you how I took my size long Valandre Shocking Blue, a 3lb bag EN comfort rated at 16F, to a verified -15F, and…
reviewed by pillowthread
April 6, 2011
vote
Marmot Twilight 2P
This tent is a backcountry luxury. It has two fairly large vestibules (10.5 square feet each) to store large packs and boots, and there is…
reviewed by .ghost.
April 5, 2011
votes
Clif Shot
The full lineup of Clif Shot energy gels. I tested the new (2011) formula of Clif Bar's Clif Shot energy gels while hiking, snow-biking, and…
reviewed by Seth Levy
April 5, 2011
vote
REI Flash 30 Pack
I just bought this pack for the Elk Mountain Grand Traverse (40 mile BC ski race from Crested Butte to Aspen, CO). The pack was wonderful. Very… 
votes
Marmot Helium MemBrain
This thing is like a dream. Waterproof outside, breathable and comfortable inside. The MemBrain lining, although I'm not sure if it's worth… 
vote
Vibram FiveFingers KSO Trek
I purchased my Treks in the middle of January 2011. I bought the brown kangaroo leather Treks. My size is a 42. I started wearing them all the…
reviewed by N2DaWild
March 31, 2011
votes
Gregory Baltoro 65
This is a load-hauler for a backpack of this size. It has proved to be not only comfortable but also very durable. Plethora of features is nice.
reviewed by andrew f.
March 31, 2011
vote
Eureka! Spitfire 1
I used to backpack with a hammock for a shelter, but after it had a major equipment failure, I decided to switch to a solo ultralight style…
reviewed by N2DaWild
March 30, 2011
vote
MSR WindPro
This stove is great! I would like to think of myself as an ultralighter but this stove warrants carrying a few extra oz.'s Being safety conscious…
reviewed by Jon L.
March 29, 2011
vote
U.S. Armed Forces ALICE Pack
If you're going to be shlepping an ALICE pack fully loaded, I strongly urge you to make sure you have the frame attached regardless if you have… votes
JanSport D2
What a great pack! Purchased one as soon as I found out that JanSport was making them again. I collect old JS packs and this bag is outstanding. 
vote
Optimus Crux
Great lightweight stove. This thing is tiny and lightweight, when in its little neoprene case it can be carried anywhere (even in the hollow…
reviewed by Sutha
March 27, 2011
vote
La Sportiva Pamir
These boots are absolutely bomb proof. The workmanship of La Sportiva products are unparalleled. These boots provide great ankle support and… 
vote
Clark North American
Let's get the bad out of the way. It is narrow (the Clark North American) and claustrophobic. The netting does not allow much in the way of…
reviewed by zoobee
March 25, 2011
vote
Vibram FiveFingers KSO
A year ago I joined a hiking club and i REALLY love wearing fivefingers. I have collected four pairs for my own (KSO, Speed, Bikila, Sprint)… 
vote
Marmot Pinnacle
When my previous bag, a moderately priced store brand synthetic, had its zipper break at the same time that the fill lost most of its loft,… 
vote
REI Camp Dome 2
I use this tent for car and motorcycle camping and, as many do, I use a two man tent as a one man tent. Thus the absence of storage under the… 
votes
GoLite Pinnacle
I year and a half ago, I wanted to get into backpacking, but didn't want to spend a fortune on gear. I also knew that since I was hoping to…
reviewed by ashnicole
March 15, 2011
vote
Primus EtaSolo
The Primus EtaSolo is the latest in a long line of highly fuel-efficient integrated camp stoves from Primus that make boiling water and cooking…
reviewed by kayakoholic
March 14, 2011
votes
MSR SimmerLite
For a small, light, liquid fuel stove I am very happy with this piece of camp equipment. It is Most compact of many brands I was considering.
reviewed by Callahan
March 14, 2011
vote
The North Face Storm Summit Boot
I bought my first pair of these boots in the fall of 2008 I believe. I wanted something warm, durable and most of all waterproof. I settled…
reviewed by Jake W
March 13, 2011
vote
Mountain Hardwear Phantom 32°
Rarely does a sleeping bag live up to its temperature rating. This one surpasses its rating. In my search to reduce weight but maintain comfort,…
reviewed by Explorer Robby
March 12, 2011
vote
Feathered Friends 40 Below Pants
Feathered Friends 40 Below Pants; true to their name. Feathered Friends 40 Below Pants are some of the best, if not the best, down insulated…
reviewed by North1
March 8, 2011
vote
1 comment
Mountain Hardwear Lamina 35°
I love this bag. I also have another colder weather bag but just keep using this one. If really colder and below the bag rating I use a liner.
reviewed by Callahan
March 7, 2011
vote
Wilderness Systems Pungo 120
Until it got stolen this past summer my Pungo 120 was my boat of choice for over 8 years. It was the perfect mix between touring kayak, and…
reviewed by wirerat123
March 7, 2011
vote
Buck PakLite Caper Knife
Fantastic knife for the money! I love Buck knives ability to take and hold an edge, and I wanted a super light fixed blade knife. But I didn't…
reviewed by wirerat123
March 7, 2011
vote
MSR Ventana
I've been a camper most of my life and and backpacker since high school. I use to just have a cheapy puptent but finally I wanted to invest… vote
Black Diamond Orbit
BRILLIANT, yeah it is bright This is one of only a few luxuries I take and it is well worth the small room and tiny amount of weight. Yes, I…
reviewed by Callahan
March 6, 2011
votes
2 comments
Asolo Synchro GTX
My pet peeve is reading someone's negative review of a product only to find out that they didn't buy the correct product to begin with. This… 
votes
Kelty Trekker 3900
Well, I just joined Trailspace and saw that no one has reviewed the K3900. I’ve had this pack for several years now and it’s the only pack…
reviewed by Patman
March 3, 2011
votes
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir
This is a very good choice for my needs for MX (plated) dirt bike camping. Ultra light, with NeoAir stuff sack wt = 14-1/8oz Ultra small packed…
reviewed by Callahan
March 2, 2011
vote
ALPS Mountaineering Mystique 1.5
Probably a 3 Season Tent. I did have a 1.0 but it was a little too tight for room with Boots under the crawl through end entry vestibule (that…
reviewed by Callahan
March 2, 2011
vote
MSR HyperFlow Microfilter
I have been using this filter since it was first released. It has been performing perfectly since first pump, and at the first sign of "bogged… 
vote
Alico Summit
The Alicosport Summit is a great all leather boot for the money! I have had these boots for two years and have put about 400 miles on them,…
reviewed by trouthunter
February 27, 2011
vote
Nalgene 32 oz. Winter Insulated Bottle Carrier
I love them. First of all, I only store cold water inside Nalgene bottles, even if mine are BPA free. In summer season, I fill the bottles half…
reviewed by aoaltunel
February 25, 2011
vote
Coleman PerfectFlow 2-Burner Propane Stove
Used one several summers in Alaska. It worked well but carting around extra and empty fuel cartridges is the price that you have to pay for…
reviewed by shakeNbake
February 22, 2011
vote
Coleman LED Micropacker Lantern
Puts out an amazing amount of light for the size. Enough light to read, cook or do chores. I remove the batteries when packing so it doesn't…
reviewed by shakeNbake
February 22, 2011
vote
Primus PowerGas 110 g
I have the 16 oz, bigger, canister. The gas mixture burns great even in high altitudes. It takes relatively less space than that of the same…
reviewed by aoaltunel
February 22, 2011
vote
GSI Pinnacle Backpacker Cookset
This is our cook set when the whole family goes backpacking. Has everything the three of us needs. It can boil water for our Mountain House…
reviewed by Jerry 58
February 21, 2011
vote
Bushbuddy Ultra
I've used the Bushbuddy Ultra several times, and am very pleased with it. Mine weighs 4.9 oz, and there is no fuel bottle to carry! After cooking… 
vote
First Need Deluxe Water Purifier
I have owned one for about 15 years without any sort of mechanical failure or water-bourne disease. The water always tastes good to me. …
reviewed by shakeNbake
February 21, 2011
votes
Marmot Trestles 15
This is actually a great bag. I have had it now for 2 years and have used it extensively and it barely shows any wear. I have used it in… 
vote
MSR Elbow Room 3P
I bought this tent on sale and was hard pressed to find much in the way of reviews so thought I would throw up my thoughts after the living… 
votes
Vibram FiveFingers TrekSport
As interest in barefoot or minimal footwear builds in the running and trail communities, Trailspace assigned three reviewers to test the utility…
reviewed by andrew f.
February 16, 2011
votes
Brunton Restore
The Brunton Restore harvests sunshine into a compact and lightweight solar-powered portable power supply that can be charged indoors or out.
reviewed by kayakoholic
February 15, 2011
vote
MSR Lightning Ascent
Just to address the concerns expressed by the top reviewer here; I work in an outdoor gear shop, and have been to training with various snowshoe… 
vote
GSI Ultralight Dualist Cook System
Really clever nesting -- great kit for 2 or 3 on the trail. Pot size works perfect for backpacking with 3 hikers. I only use it for boiling…
reviewed by CapitolaDan
February 10, 2011
vote
Osprey Stratos 26
Just like Goldy Locks and the Three Bears story, I have had all sizes of the Stratos (except the 34) and the 26 is Juuusssttt Right! I was a…
reviewed by wildepirate
February 10, 2011
vote
DeLorme Earthmate PN-60
I'm a long-time hiker; more recently a serious backpacker, and I hike (on non-trip weeks) about 15-20 miles/week. This is my first GPSr and…
vote
Princeton Tec Remix
Just purchased the Princeton Tec Remix. The intended use is for hiking/backpacking and today's use was for installing a new sump pump in a crawl…
reviewed by Ben Cerise
February 9, 2011
