Reviews
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9 comments
Goal Zero Guide 10 Plus Solar Kit
The concept of capturing solar energy for charging electronic devices WHILE HIKING, in theory, is admirable. In practice, however, hiking and…
reviewed by David Drake
February 9, 2014
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2 comments
RailRiders WeatherPants
All nylon construction mean these pants dry a lot (!) faster than cotton. Cordura reinforcement at the knees and backside add to the durability.
reviewed by Matthew Timothy Bradley
February 9, 2014
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2 comments
Jacob Bromwell Classic Stainless Steel Cup 32oz
The Jacob Bromwell Classic Stainless Steel Cup (size Large) is a functional option for the budget minded outdoors person. Weighing in at only…
reviewed by herdingcats
February 6, 2014
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2 comments
Vibram FiveFingers Komodo Sport LS
First pair of Vibrams I've ever owned, and I'll be a customer for life. Hands down my favorite pair of shoes I've ever had. I love wearing them… 
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2 comments
Mammut Rime Pro Jacket
A good all around synthetic down jacket for casual and athletic use. Recommended for anyone needing an entry level synthetic down to keep them…
reviewed by Nick Cai
January 25, 2014
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2 comments
MontBell Alpine Light Down Parka
For a very warm, well-made, very lighweight down parka, you'd search far and wide to do better than this one. Wonderful, effective hood. Easily…
reviewed by Ken Sternberg
January 24, 2014
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Black Diamond Stance Belay Parka
Really excellent belaying parka. Warm, comfortable, packs down small, and doesn't weigh much at all. Great for very cold belaying at the crag,…
reviewed by Tam McTavish
January 23, 2014
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3 comments
Gerber Mini Paraframe Tanto
An amazing EDC knife for any job and cheap too! The Gerber Mini Paraframe Tanto is a great knife used for day-to-day jobs as well as being prepared…
reviewed by MaloFlyer
January 21, 2014
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1 comment
Mountain Hardwear SkyLedge 2.1
If you want an ultralight, 2-person tent that is LIGHT and has 2 doors, 2 huge vestibules—this is it! Each side fits a large pack, boots and… 
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1 comment
Vapur Shades
Between my girls and me, we have six of these soft bottles. The concept is pretty nice and they pack up small. We usually bring them along in…
reviewed by jboothmtnbkr
January 12, 2014
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Silva Lensatic 360
Sturdy, reliable version of the Engineer's liquid-damped lensatic compass. My Silva Lensatic 360 compass has proven to be sturdy, reliable,… 
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1 comment
ALPS Mountaineering Mystique 1.5
Great value in a quality 1-person tent. Alps Mystic 1.5 on bicycle tour at Perrot State Park. Other equipment in the photo includes JetBoil…
reviewed by Troop 600
January 4, 2014
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MontBell U.L. Down Parka
Awesome addition for just about anything outdoors. I bought this parka while in town waiting for a climbing buddy to arrive. I had several friends… 
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2 comments
Yellowstone Fast Boil Backpacker Pot
1-litre ul/ha pot with heat exchanger, lightweight attractive finish. This photo shows the test boil setup. I used a Westwind Trangia with Trangia…
reviewed by john261
December 13, 2013
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Mountainsmith Haze 50
Mountainsmith's cavernous 50L frameless top-loader is one of the most competitive entries into the "starter pack" market, weighing less than…
reviewed by Eric Labanauskas
December 7, 2013
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Sea to Summit Micro MC II
2-3 season bag that's easy to pack and carry, and is very flexible in use, covering a huge range of above-freezing temperatures. I used this… 
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1 comment
Water-to-Go Filter Bottle
The Water to Go Filtered Bottle is designed to safely filter 99.9% of all contaminants from water, whether the source is tap water in a developing… 
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Gregory Contour 60 Pack
Think and Try before you buy it. I just came back from a 3-day trekking with my Contour 60 pack. In these three days, I found there are more Cons… 
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Cactus Climbing Miklat
A very hard wearing pack. If you have ever had other packs wear out or fail before their time, then this is the pack for you. Pack fits well… 
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1 comment
FITS Sock Medium Hiker Crew
A really comfortable merino wool hiking sock. Very smooth, soft socks with a good amount of stretch. Relatively low volume for a medium weight…
reviewed by andrew f.
November 10, 2013
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TOPS Knives Fieldcraft by Brothers of Bushcraft
This is an excellent knife for general camp tasks—processing wood, shelter building, cutting, and carving that does not require fine detailing.
reviewed by Bentbrook
November 7, 2013
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Patagonia Torrentshell
I used this jacket on the Appalachian Trail last spring and when it rained for days at a time this jacket was always keeping me dry. When I… 
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Sierra Designs Cloud Windshell
The micro-climate, windproof layer of the three-piece Cloud Layering System: This uber-light, three-season wind shirt provides extra comfort…
reviewed by XterroBrando
November 2, 2013
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Sierra Designs Cloud Airshell
The ultra-light, compact, rain-proof outer layer of the three-piece Cloud Layering System: This simple, 3-season, hooded shell provides full…
reviewed by XterroBrando
November 2, 2013
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6 comments
Merrell Moab Ventilator Mid
Used the Merrell Moab (both mid and reg) and the usual result is 1,800 miles out of each pair. Used these while hiking the AT, PCT, CDT, and…
reviewed by Lakeland Nidhatak
November 1, 2013
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Exped Air Pillow UL
If you are looking for good sleep outdoors (and who isn't?), the Exped Air Pillow UL is very light and comfortable. But be very gentle with…
reviewed by Cody Bartz
October 31, 2013
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1 comment
Light My Fire Swedish FireKnife
A competent, high-value fixed blade for general bushcraft and campcraft. Lightweight and comfortable in the hand for detail work or carving;…
reviewed by Bentbrook
October 17, 2013
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3 comments
Sea to Summit Delta Mug
A simple, handle-less, one-piece plastic mug with a cool-to-the-touch top rim and bottom. Nests perfectly inside a solo pot. Built-in measurement…
reviewed by Eric Labanauskas
September 29, 2013
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MontBell U.L. Super Spiral Down Hugger #3
Lightweight bag that's best for fall backpacking, although you can definitely stretch the usage of this versatile bag. As with all Montbell…
reviewed by DRMeschke
September 26, 2013
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Brooks Cascadia 7
Solid toe protection, stable platform, minimal arch, decent grip in dry conditions, but unable to handle too much weight. Personal Usage and…
reviewed by davidtierney
September 23, 2013
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4 comments
Superfeet Berry
When you buy a boot, ya gotta buy an insole. The money goes into the boot and not the insole, so it can mean the difference between an adequate…
reviewed by giftogab
September 19, 2013
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1 comment
Sea to Summit X-Set
Probably the most compact way to increase the capacity of your outdoor kitchen! So I was just messaging a fellow TS member and I remembered…
reviewed by Joseph Renow
September 15, 2013
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Aqua-Bound Shred Carbon
A carbon-fiber and ABX hybrid paddle that offers a lot of good for a very reasonable amount of dough! Simply put...if you have the money to…
reviewed by Joseph Renow
September 11, 2013
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Mountain Hardwear Hunker Down Jacket
Trying for so many years, I finally found an all-around down jacket that has everything I need. I was looking for a down-filled jacket that… 
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Gerber Profile Fixed Drop Point
This review is for the Gerber Profile FIXED BLADE knife. It is very similar to the folding knife in appearance. It's super tough and is an excellent…
reviewed by malotrekker
August 30, 2013
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1 comment
Exped Venus II
High quality four-season tent offers plenty of floor space and peace of mind. Both door zippers failed after around 30 nights use. We have had…
reviewed by Donna
August 29, 2013
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Outdoor Research Ultra Trail Gaiters
Lightweight fairly minimalist low gaiters, work OK to keep debris out of low-cut trail shoes. Fit is not superb on low shoes, but it works well…
reviewed by nuitsblanches
August 26, 2013
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Mountain House Rice & Chicken
A simple combination of rice, chicken, and pimientos. The strong, bouillon-based chicken seasoning makes the rice consistently flavorful throughout,…
reviewed by Eric Labanauskas
August 25, 2013
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1 comment
BioLite CampStove
In the right venue, this little stove is a nice complement to cooking, heating, and ambiance. After using it at home, backpacking, and canoeing,…
reviewed by second gear
August 23, 2013
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Grand Trunk Double Parachute Nylon Hammock
It's really lightweight, packs down really small and is super comfortable. It is cheaper than comparable hammocks from other companies even… 
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1 comment
Primus Litech Trek Kettle
Nonstick, scratch resistant coating makes this pot easy to clean. It'll hold a liter of water, but there are no measuring marks on the pot,… 
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1 comment
Helle Symfoni
A razor-sharp blade that is easy to maintain! Helle is a world-class knife manufacturer from Norway that makes their knives by hand in many…
reviewed by Sean Van Cleve
August 19, 2013
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1 comment
Clark NX-250
Best all weather hammock you can buy. Honest. I own one. Best ever. Bought the NX-250. 439 bucks for a hammock? Are you kidding me? Worth every… 
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1 comment
Chainmate 36-Inch Survival Pocket Saw
Small but efficient hand powered chain saw. Very useful for trail work, firewood gathering and even at home. This saw was purchased primarily…
reviewed by LoneStranger
August 14, 2013
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Asolo Velocity 4
This tent sets up and takes down quickly, has tons of room, and doesn't leak a drop, even in blustery thunderstorms. We just returned from a…
reviewed by bigger al
August 10, 2013
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Osprey Aether 70
Wonderful craftsmanship with a great carry. All in all the Osprey Aether 70 is my all-time favorite "big boy" pack. If you follow gear you know…
reviewed by T.J.
August 8, 2013
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4 comments
Brunton Explorer
Not ready for prime time. This is coming from a guy who makes silicon for a living. If anyone would be an advocate of this panel it would be…
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
August 7, 2013
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Hilleberg Akto
Excellent, lightweight and spacious solo tent. Thoroughly contemplated design, sturdy construction, adaptable features, and high quality materials.
reviewed by Alex Redington
July 25, 2013
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2 comments
Dynafit Mercury TF
A great "quiver of one" boot that is equally capable of driving your skis on piste, doing laps in the side country, as well as downhill focussed… 
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Trangia Mini Trangia
This stove is compact, lightweight, and very packable. It is solidly built and very durable, made for back country use and years of dependable…
reviewed by PappyHiker
July 21, 2013
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2 comments
Optimus Titanium Folding Spork
Light multipurpose eating utensil, but watch the lock. I've had one of these for a couple of years. Take a stove, the Optimus Spork and a dehydrated…
reviewed by Peter1955
July 19, 2013
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1 comment
Osprey Xenith 75
I've tested and used this pack over many miles on several backpacking trips and it did not disappoint. The 75 is part of the newly redesigned…
reviewed by TNHiker70
July 17, 2013
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Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Trekker
A lightweight sleeping pad weighing in at 19 oz and packs up quite small. Somewhat loud and quite narrow. Very expensive when bought at full…
reviewed by Danny Wang
July 14, 2013
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2 comments
Dutchware Ridgeline Biners
Dutchware is a cottage manufacturer providing incredibly well-made equipment primarily used for hammock camping, but with other applications…
reviewed by G00SE
July 10, 2013
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4 comments
Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow
It pains me to do it — especially because I LOVE my NeoAir Trekker pad — but this is probably the first piece of gear I've purchased and…
reviewed by Eric Labanauskas
July 9, 2013
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The North Face Paramount Cargo Short
Quick dry nylon shorts are good for a wide variety of outdoor activities. I like the lightweight material, the pockets, and the belt and belt…
reviewed by andrew f.
July 3, 2013
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1 comment
White Box Stove
A lightweight, dirt simple alcohol stove that does what it's supposed to do (boil water) but not a bit more. Best for making hot drinks and…
reviewed by BigRed
June 29, 2013
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VauDe Rock Ultralight 25
If you're looking for a near-gossamer day/one night pack that's built like a tank, stop. I found it for you. The VauDe Rock Ultralight 25 is…
reviewed by bigsilk
June 27, 2013
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3 comments
Mountain Hardwear Way2Cool Tank
The Way2Cool Tank is a running top made with a fabric using Cool Q ZERO (“a cooling agent”) it is also finished with an antimicrobial agent.
reviewed by trouthunter
June 18, 2013
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Platypus SoftBottle
This lightweight bottle is well designed with surprisingly nice features. It is a good replacement in terms of weight and flexibility to traditional…
reviewed by PNW_John
June 15, 2013
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1 comment
Trangia 27-8 UL/HA
An ideal, reasonably lightweight cooking system for those who are willing to carry a bit of extra weight in order to have everything, but the…
reviewed by G00SE
June 9, 2013
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Trangia 27-5 UL
A complete cook system that is quiet and efficient. Always a pleasure to be around. I'm an "Outdoor Professional" having worked as an Outward… 
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1 comment
MSR Hubba Hubba
It breathes well and setup is no sweat either. What I always say when people ask me about the Hubba Hubba: "You could pitch this drunk in the…
reviewed by Kaylee
June 1, 2013
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3 comments
Jacks 'R' Better Katahdin Quilt
The product is beautifully constructed of quality materials, and with great detail to comfort as well as function. The seller made himself completely… 
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1 comment
Stoic Hadron Down Anorak
With an ultralight pertex quantum shell, 850 fill goose down, hood, and hand warmer pouch in front, the Hadron is extremely lightweight for… 
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1 comment
Garmin Foretrex 401
The functionality I want, nothing else. Don't forget that initial calibration out of the box! Garmin Foretrex 401 I tried a low-budget old-school…
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
May 28, 2013
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2 comments
Merrell Mix Master
A great lightweight trail runner that breathes and vents very well. Really good traction profile and comfortable when worn for long periods…
reviewed by mangus7175
May 28, 2013
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5 comments
Black Diamond ATC
This style of belay devices is named after this product. It's the Q-tip of climbing. I think my ATC came with a big belay locking carabiner…
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
May 24, 2013
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Heritage Kayaks Redfish 14
This is a great fishing kayak designed with an angler in mind. It has usable space, as well as storage for all your gear. Handles on both sides,…
reviewed by Swampcat
May 18, 2013
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5 comments
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir
Light, comfortable, packs up small. Basically, there are three different types of backpacking mattresses, the familiar blue or yellow closed-cell…
reviewed by Peter1955
May 15, 2013
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1 comment
The North Face Manta Ray 33
You may not be able to fit three people in this "hammerhead" style, T-shaped tent, but you will comfortably fit two plus gear in the roomy interior…
reviewed by Eric Labanauskas
May 11, 2013
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Primus AluTech Trek Kettle - 1.0L
I finally found my go-to cook pot and it didn't break the bank! I have coveted the MSR Titan Cook Pot for several years, yet could never bring…
reviewed by Linda Navroth
May 6, 2013
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Salomon S Lab Gaiters
Since I have taken to hiking and backpacking with low-cut hiking shoes, I wanted a way to keep debris from accumulating in the shoes and causing…
reviewed by bheiser1
May 5, 2013
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Osprey Aether 70
Ultra comfy, ultra adjustable pack able to handle significant weight. When it comes to packs, it either feels good or it doesn't. I tried on…
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Solo Stove
A no-brainer stove. With abundant wood availability, this is my go-to backpacking stove. This is an excellent stove, with a few important limitations. … 
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2 comments
Sea to Summit Folding Bucket
Add some convenience to your trip by filtering water from camp. This piece of gear will help you do that. Every now and then, you seem to run… 
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3 comments
Platypus Platy Bottle
Lightest, most durable bottle on the market! I first started using a Platypus bottle in my caving pack. Anything that goes caving gets BEAT…
reviewed by G00SE
April 24, 2013
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BioLite CampStove
Handy for campouts or emergency power outages. Fast and efficient. A little extra weight makes up for the fuel you won’t need to carry. Highly…
reviewed by Troop855
April 24, 2013
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Saucony ProGrid Outlaw
A very comfortable shoe, but not my favorite Sauconys. A sufficient trail runner with ankle support, but I question Backpacker Magazine's reviewer…
reviewed by Sean Van Cleve
April 22, 2013
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MSR Hubba
Great solo tent at a decent weight. Nice ventilation and spacious vestibule make it cozy and livable for one. This tent is easy to pitch if…
reviewed by Sebastian_C
April 21, 2013
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U.S. Armed Forces MOLLE Pack
Extremely efficient weight transfer to the hips. Very high capacity. Good system called PALS for adding pouches to make items more convenient…
reviewed by JohnCurranLadd
April 13, 2013
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1 comment
Olfa Touch Knife
Small, very light, very sharp and all you really need––in my opinion, so far...we'll see. Let’s talk about knives and cutting things,…
reviewed by JMTx13
April 12, 2013
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Adidas Hydro Pro
This is a quality shoe that is well worth the price if you can keep the sand out of the zipper. After months of use they show very little wear…
reviewed by James Milligan
April 11, 2013
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Garcia Backpackers' Cache
Convenience and security in a stout package. After you accept the bulk and weight of it as a given, the bear can is worth it for the piece of…
reviewed by Sebastian_C
April 1, 2013
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Osprey Kestrel 68
Nice balance of attributes. Tried the whole 2012 Osprey line up and found the Kestrel 68 to be the best balance of weight, function, durability,…
reviewed by CO14
March 28, 2013
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HawK VittleS Breakfast Casserole
An awesome, yummy meal! Single or double servings – this review is for the single serving size. Serving size: 16 oz. Calories: 754 Ingredients:…
reviewed by Linda Navroth
March 28, 2013
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Princeton Tec Byte
There's a lot of bang for the buck, but be aware of problems. I picked up my Princeton-Tec Byte a while back, used it some, and gave it a hard… 
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1 comment
Big Agnes Ethel 0°
This was the solution to my wife's freezing cold nights! My wife and I have been camping for 25 years, and motorcycle camping for over 20 of…
reviewed by bigger al
March 19, 2013
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1 comment
MSR WhisperLite Internationale
The Whisperlite International is a versatile piece of gear that will always have a place in my pack. The ability to burn many different fuel…
reviewed by a_cosmonaut
March 7, 2013
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Square Hot Pad 8
When using a white gas stove snow camping it's a problem to keep the stove from melting into the snow. This products seems to solve that problem.
reviewed by Mentalfloss1
March 2, 2013
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Leatherman Wave
This is the sharpest folding blade I own. The scissors can cut anything. The saw is amazingly sharp. I have been carrying this multitool for…
reviewed by malotrekker
February 22, 2013
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1 comment
REI Taj 3
This tent has been the best piece of camping gear that we've ever owned. Period. I bought this tent in October, 2006 as a birthday present to…
reviewed by bigger al
February 21, 2013
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Sierra Designs Cirro Jacket
An effective "Hybrid" jacket design using hydrophobic DriDown in the body and sleeves, with stretch-knit underarms for flexible fit, providing…
reviewed by XterroBrando
February 21, 2013
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1 comment
UCO Clarus Collapsible LED Lantern
A truly worthy replacement for the venerable UCO Candle Lantern. It's lighter, brighter, sturdier, safer, easier and has more uses. Although…
reviewed by deluxestogie
February 9, 2013
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Exped Orion
A true freestanding, 4-season tent with exoskeleton and tons of vestibule storage. and sold me on this tent which I have owned for a…
reviewed by tex99999
February 7, 2013
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Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Knife
OK, I understand a good many people like this knife. Although I see some good qualities in it, the bad ones outweigh the good. First of all,…
reviewed by shenora1116
February 2, 2013
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GoLite Demaree Canyon 800 Fill Down Jacket
This is a great 800 fill down jacket! Not too puffy, not too flat for high quality goose down. The Men's M/M is a perfect fit for 5'10"/160lbs.
reviewed by Sean Van Cleve
January 28, 2013
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Outdoor Research Alti Mitts
If you absolutely need the warmest mitten available, these are the gold standard as far as I am concerned. The combination of a windproof/waterproof…
reviewed by andrew f.
January 28, 2013
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NEMO Astro Air Short
This non-self inflating sleeping pad/ mattress is light, packable and about as comfortable as a sleeping pad can get for its size and weight.
reviewed by Sir Inch-a-lot
January 20, 2013
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Black Diamond I-Tent
This is the best of the best. The I-Tent was i-awesome long before any glamorous media gadget. This is the alpha dog of two-person four-season…
reviewed by Junglecommando
January 19, 2013
