Reviews
votes
6 comments
Nite Ize MoonLit LED Micro Lantern
With very little modification, this has become my "go to" light source. Over the years I've found that I'm needing less and less light when…
reviewed by kitcarson61
May 3, 2017
votes
2 comments
Granite Gear Air Compressor
The Granite Gear medium Air Compressor is a nice lightweight alternative to the slightly heavier duty "Rock Solid" compression sack. It holds…
reviewed by Go Time! (Jesse Maloney)
April 24, 2017
votes
4 comments
UCO A-120
UCO has created a nice, decent headlamp. The Cree LED lighting is quite bright. The "Infinity Dial" is an excellent innovation. The drawbacks…
reviewed by G00SE
April 16, 2017
votes
10 comments
Sawyer Permethrin Premium Insect Repellent
I have used DEET and other products since the early 1980s, but Permethrin treated clothes are much more effective in tick prevention based on…
reviewed by FlipNC
April 9, 2017
votes
2 comments
Patagonia R1 Hoody
The most versatile mid-layer I own. I wear this as one of my layers in the coldest temperatures all the way through stuffing in my day pack…
reviewed by andrew f.
April 8, 2017
votes
5 comments
Sierra Designs Divine Light 2 FL
The Divine Light 2 FL is a new addition to Sierra Designs' line of lightweight backpacking tents, combining characteristics of the Flashlight…
reviewed by Lah
April 5, 2017
votes
6 comments
AT Beard Mower
Created by experienced Appalachian Trail thru-hikers, the Beard Mower is a "must have" for anyone hiking a long trail. Compact and lightweight,…
reviewed by G00SE
April 1, 2017
votes
1 comment
Montane Featherlite Down Pro Pull-On
The Montane Featherlite Down Pro Pull-On provides oven-like temperatures even when the thermometer shows readings below zero. The minimalist…
reviewed by Jim51111
April 1, 2017
votes
5 comments
Marmot Pulsar 2P
Some great things about this tent and some pretty lousy things about this tent make it a split decision. Setup: The tent is easy enough to pitch.
reviewed by Go Time! (Jesse Maloney)
March 25, 2017
votes
3 comments
Ibex Meru Hat
After six months of wearing the Ibex's Meru Hat, I can confidently state this is the most comfortable beanie I have ever worn. This quality…
reviewed by G00SE
March 20, 2017
votes
8 comments
Light My Fire Swedish FireKnife
This is a nice basic knife with an integral FireSteel that would make a great all around camp knife. First off, I would like to state that I…
reviewed by Mike Mineart
March 16, 2017
votes
5 comments
Meindl Softline TOP GTX
These are the most comfortable pair of boots (or any other shoes) I have ever worn. The Vibram sole is superb, and although they are full leather…
reviewed by Yuvalk
March 11, 2017
votes
4 comments
LifeStraw Mission Gravity Water Purifier
The Lifestraw Mission gravity purifier is overall an OK performing filter, and I would probably trust it to adequately filter any water source…
reviewed by TheRambler
February 28, 2017
votes
3 comments
Leki Sub1
A lightweight chair that is somewhere in between an all-purpose and a lightweight camp chair. Incredibly easy to set up and a durable base make…
reviewed by KiwiKlimber
February 23, 2017
votes
3 comments
Garmin Tempe
Excellent weather instrument for all users of wireless-capable Garmin units. I've been using this sensor since its appearance in 2012 with my…
reviewed by Vladimir Gorbunov
February 1, 2017
votes
4 comments
Gear Aid ARC LED Light & Power Station
Sturdy, reliable, and rechargeable. The ARC is both a light and a power source that has come in handy in a wide variety of scenarios. Conditions…
reviewed by KiwiKlimber
January 25, 2017
votes
2 comments
Forty Below Bottle Boots 1L
Does a very good job keeping your liquids warm in the winter and cool in the summer—decently thick neoprene. Simple fold-over top and wide…
reviewed by andrew f.
January 13, 2017
votes
4 comments
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Good device in between a Yaktrak and mountaineering crampon. I used a pair of the very inexpensive YakTrax exactly one time and decided to find…
reviewed by JtothaK
January 9, 2017
votes
7 comments
U.S. Armed Forces Gen III, Level 2 ECWCS Top
U.S. made Polartec Power Grid fleece top for $20. Compare to the $100 Patagonia R1 which is now made overseas. I find myself wearing the level…
reviewed by JtothaK
January 3, 2017
votes
8 comments
Wild Ideas Bearikade Weekender
The Bearikade line of bear canisters from Wild Ideas are by far the lightest weight for the volume you get. Bearikades are the only carbon fiber…
reviewed by JRinGeorgia
January 2, 2017
votes
6 comments
Campfire Meals Rice & Chicken Tortilla
I was ordering some quickie meals for winter hiking, and decided to write a review of one of our favorites. The Campfire Meals Rice and Chicken…
reviewed by Sheila Bergin Goss
December 19, 2016
votes
10 comments
Dachstein 4 Ply Boiled Wool Alpine Mittens
The warmest wool mittens available! Excellent mitten liners for extreme cold. Proven on many mountaineering expeditions for decades. These mittens…
reviewed by 300winmag
December 15, 2016
votes
2 comments
Leki Micro Vario Ti Cor-Tec
Looking for a go-to trekking pole that does it all? This pole might just fit that bill. From the ergonomic cork handle to it breaking down to…
reviewed by second gear
November 30, 2016
votes
1 comment
La Sportiva Otaki
The La Sportiva Otakis climbed very well on the sandstone of Castle Rock and on the volcanic conglomerate of Pinnacles. They work well for experienced…
reviewed by Bill S
November 13, 2016
votes
5 comments
Coghlan's Fire Paste
An easy quick starter for your stove or fire when you don’t feel like going through the old-fashioned way. However, it doesn’t perform as…
reviewed by FlipNC
October 30, 2016
votes
2 comments
Black Diamond Orbit
Black Diamond touts the Orbit as a Double Power LED. I would have to agree. With the touch of the selector switch you go from a 105-lumen lantern…
reviewed by denis daly
September 30, 2016
votes
1 comment
Western Mountaineering SummerLite
I put this bag to the test over 22 days in the High Sierra backcountry. It performed! Warm, comfortable, lightweight: I highly recommend it…
reviewed by Sebastian_C
September 9, 2016
votes
13 comments
Vargo 1.3 Liter Titanium Pot
This is an excellent lightweight pot that has been very durable over the last two years. Heats relatively evenly, and has several thoughtful…
reviewed by FlipNC
August 16, 2016
votes
2 comments
Big Agnes Rocky Peak 4 mtnGLO
A pretty lightweight tent that is easy to set up and holds its own. Setup: The tent has a single pole design with quick clips. This is probably…
reviewed by Go Time! (Jesse Maloney)
August 7, 2016
votes
5 comments
Good To-Go Pad Thai
This is the latest addition to a line-up of six Good To-Go "all natural, dehydrated gourmet" meals. I found the product to be a fresh, healthy,…
reviewed by Lah
July 11, 2016
votes
3 comments
Good To-Go Indian Vegetable Korma
This is the latest addition to a line-up of six Good To-Go "all natural, dehydrated gourmet" meals. I found the product to be a fresh, healthy,…
reviewed by Lah
July 11, 2016
votes
6 comments
BRS 3000T
The most lightweight and the most compact yet powerful backpacking butane canister stove is the only stove one needs for 3-season backpacking…
reviewed by AlexT.
June 5, 2016
votes
2 comments
Platypus Sprinter XT 35
This is a great pack. Well-constructed, waterproof, comfortable (probably more comfortable for men), but it may not fit everyone’s hiking…
reviewed by Siltloam
May 12, 2016
votes
2 comments
Naked Granola Granola Cookies - Seattle
Not necessarily an “energy bar” but rather a wholesome granola bar, or cookie as they call it, that provides a great taste and generous…
reviewed by KiwiKlimber
May 3, 2016
votes
2 comments
Haglofs L.I.M. Power Dry Hooded Top
Lightweight but pricey airy warmth. The L.I.M. Power Dry Hooded Top is a very lightweight fleece grid jacket that is suitable for all but the…
reviewed by Andy Gotto
April 29, 2016
votes
6 comments
UCO Stormproof Match Kit
Okay, hopefully my final review of matches! These matches are amazing, and are now kept in our emergency kits, should we ever need to start…
reviewed by Sheila Bergin Goss
April 22, 2016
votes
1 comment
UCO Waterproof Matches
Last fall, I reviewed a very disappointing brand of "waterproof" matches. Since then, I have obtained two types of UCO matches, and both are…
reviewed by Sheila Bergin Goss
April 22, 2016
votes
1 comment
GSI Outdoors Infinity Insulated Mug
Just about perfect. This is a great coffee mug. Picked this up about three months ago and it's held up well on several overnight and multi-day…
reviewed by Andy Gotto
April 22, 2016
votes
9 comments
Craghoppers NosiLife Convertible Trousers
Practical lightweight trousers with nine pockets and zip-off legs, and impregnated with insect repellent. Excellent for warm weather hiking…
reviewed by Charles Polidano
April 17, 2016
votes
2 comments
Sony DSC-HX90V
The world's smallest ultrazoom camera. Compact but versatile with a x30 zoom and GPS—excellent for hikers and backpackers. Normally I take…
reviewed by Charles Polidano
March 27, 2016
votes
2 comments
Oboz Bridger Mid BDry Insulated
Insulated, waterproof, and comfortable, the Oboz Bridger Mid Insulated is made for those who stay active all winter long. Great with snowshoes,…
reviewed by LoneStranger
March 15, 2016
votes
1 comment
GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip
Another, even lighter weight way, to make decent coffee in the backcountry. I'm still getting the scoops-of-coffee-to-mug-size ratio perfected,…
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
March 14, 2016
votes
4 comments
Patagonia Alpine Houdini Pants
The Alpine Houdini is a compact, lightweight all-season pant that is waterproof, windproof, breathable, and lives up to the Patagonia name.
reviewed by Sean Van Cleve
March 10, 2016
votes
7 comments
Vargo Converter Stove
The Vargo Converter Stove is an optional multi-fuel accessory intended to be used with the Hexagon wood stove, although the Converter Stove…
reviewed by TheRambler
March 10, 2016
votes
2 comments
Ternua Loughor Jacket
Manufactured in the Basque region of Spain with eco-friendly, recycled materials, the Ternua Loughor Jacket is great for hiking, snowshoeing,…
reviewed by LoneStranger
March 7, 2016
votes
7 comments
Kelty Salida 1
One-person, free standing, three-season, double walled bathtub style backpacking tent. To start, I have over 600 miles of backpacking in with…
reviewed by Uriah Hon
March 7, 2016
votes
7 comments
Paddy Pallin Spondonicles
“Spondonicles” (also known as billy lifters, pot lifters, or pan grips) were made by Paddy Pallin in Australia up until about 1980. Unfortunately…
reviewed by Andrew Stanner
March 2, 2016
votes
1 comment
enLIGHTened Equipment Enigma
The Enigma top quilt from Enlightened Equipment is an ultralight sleep quilt that keeps you warm at a decent value. The “shiftless” baffles…
reviewed by JRinGeorgia
February 28, 2016
votes
1 comment
Oboz Sawtooth Low
Oboz's Sawtooth Low hiking shoe is a comfortable, not-too-heavy shoe that's great for trails. The midsole provides plenty of cushioning and…
reviewed by andrew f.
February 23, 2016
votes
10 comments
Source Widepac Hydration System
Same as Platypus, but much cheaper. I bought the 3L version on July '15 and it (almost) never left my backpack. Before Source I was relying…
reviewed by Nick Mesarhakis
February 15, 2016
votes
2 comments
L.L.Bean Trail Model Hunting Pack
I love this pack! I use it for day hiking and snowshoeing, and I carry lots of stuff in my day pack (first aid, emergency gear, dog supplies,…
reviewed by Sheila Bergin Goss
February 9, 2016
votes
5 comments
Macpac Olympus
Legendary mountain tent for Australia / New Zealand. I have been camping, hiking, XC skiing, and mountaineering for 40 (+) years and have owned…
reviewed by Andrew Stanner
February 4, 2016
votes
2 comments
Lost Creek Monster TAG
Lost Creek's Monster TAG pack is a 22L, virtually indestructible cave pack that has stood the test of time. This is an exceptionally large cave…
reviewed by G00SE
February 1, 2016
votes
6 comments
MSR Revo Explore
Great snowshoe with unique binding system for easy in/out use. Metal frame provides great traction. The Revo Explore snowshoe offers a unique…
reviewed by arcana1973
January 26, 2016
votes
8 comments
HotsnapZ Hand Warmers
Looking for a way to prevent frostbite? This might keep those fingers and toes safe for a while longer! I was looking for a method to keep my…
reviewed by Andrew Beattie
January 18, 2016
votes
9 comments
Emmrod Packrod
My goal was to find a fishing rod that was packable, lightweight, functional, and durable. Emmrod delivered! This company started out with an…
reviewed by Andrew Beattie
January 14, 2016
votes
1 comment
High Sierra Molo Hybrid Jacket
The Molo Hybrid Jacket from High Sierra is a lightweight, wind resistant, water resistant jacket that withstands the rigors of the active lifestyle.
reviewed by JimDoss
January 11, 2016
votes
7 comments
Osprey Exos 58
It's light, it has a lot of room, all the important features, great quality, and no real cons. I can't add much to what has already been written…
reviewed by Andy Gotto
December 24, 2015
votes
5 comments
Western Mountaineering Antelope MF
One of the highest quality sleeping bags available. Three-season bag that can be used well into early fall or from early spring. Very versatile…
reviewed by Bill S
December 20, 2015
votes
7 comments
Kifaru Doobie
The warmest blanket for the weight I have ever seen. Compresses deceptively small and then fluffs out like a comforter. This is a review for… 
votes
6 comments
Sling-Light Chair
Best camp chair ever on the market! The Sling-Light Chair is one of my favorite pieces of gear.And...IT IS NO LONGER IN PRODUCTION! So why would…
reviewed by Cadenza
December 5, 2015
votes
2 comments
Snow Peak GigaPower Auto
Small, compact, reliable, no-fuss. Love this stove! Hi. My name is Cadenza and I'm a coffee addict. Oops. Sorry. Wrong meeting. When I want…
reviewed by Cadenza
December 4, 2015
votes
8 comments
Therm-a-Rest Slacker Hammock Warmer
Therm-a-Rest’s Slacker Hammock Warmer is a lightweight, quick attachment to cut the chill on mild summer evenings. It is not an under quilt,…
reviewed by G00SE
November 17, 2015
votes
3 comments
The New Primal Original 100% Grass-Fed Beef Jerky
Great flavor and texture from a responsible company. I really like outdoor foods which are responsibly sourced, artificial ingredient free,…
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
November 16, 2015
votes
3 comments
Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork
Saved my knees... saved my life. Won't leave home without them. I have been a fan of hiking poles for a long time. Because I have horrible arch…
reviewed by David Link
November 12, 2015
votes
4 comments
Patagonia Merino Air Bottoms
The Patagonia Merino Air Bottoms exceeded my expectations. Game changing merino-synthetic fabric with no seams and effortless stretch. Material…
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
November 9, 2015
votes
5 comments
Road ID Wrist ID Sport
There are few products that I feel EVERY on-the-go person should own, and Road ID is one of those “must haves.” Road ID is a simple and…
reviewed by G00SE
October 28, 2015
votes
6 comments
SOL Survival Poncho
A light, effective emergency blanket/poncho. I've been a big fan of SOL/AMK Heatsheet blankets for some time now. Much more durable and useable…
reviewed by bigskyrunner
October 22, 2015
votes
1 comment
MSR PocketRocket
The PocketRocket is a compact, high power stove for those looking to cook small meals on the trail. I purchased my old MSR PocketRocket right…
reviewed by Brent Mills
October 21, 2015
votes
4 comments
Morakniv Classic 1
Inexpensive, functional. Good blade geometry. Adequate steel. I've heard Moras referred to as "the best knives you've never heard of." In North…
reviewed by Bill Hudson
October 12, 2015
votes
4 comments
MSR WhisperLite
So durable I inherited one. Folded up and in hand for scale. My dad passed this stove down to me after many years of service. It looks like… 
votes
9 comments
Deuter DreamLite 500
I can't believe that someone hasn't already reviewed this sleeping bag! These are my GO-TO warm weather bags, and the ones I use more than any…
reviewed by DLK37086
October 1, 2015
votes
3 comments
Bushcraft Essentials Bushbox Titanium Outdoor Pocket Stove
I recently purchased the Bushbox Outdoor Pocket Stove (titanium version) and found it to be a compact and versatile multi-fuel stove/stand that… 
votes
1 comment
Ruffwear Highlands Landing Pad
The Ruffwear Landing Pad is an easy to use, durable, canine-friendly sleeping pad. It has performed well in environments ranging from backyard…
reviewed by OutdoorKelly
September 24, 2015
votes
3 comments
Brooks-Range Lt Breeze Jacket
The Brooks-Range Lt Breeze Jacket is a versatile, innovative, ultra-light wind jacket. The innovation? Paper thin “fleece” diamonds laminated…
reviewed by schifferj
September 23, 2015
votes
10 comments
Darn Tough Merino 1/4 Sock Cushion
These socks are the closest thing to perfect that I have found. I had heard about Darn Tough socks from other hiking friends over the years,…
reviewed by David Link
September 13, 2015
votes
7 comments
Asolo Power Matic 200 GV
Amazing, heavy duty, functional design. Great grip, stability, support, durability, and waterproofing. Suitable for 3+ season use. Best boots…
reviewed by Gary Leatham
September 6, 2015
votes
3 comments
TheTentLab Deuce of Spades
Great trowel, gets the job done at the same weight as titanium trowels, but for about 1/3 the cost. Thanks for the review, TJ. I wouldn't have…
reviewed by JRinGeorgia
September 6, 2015
votes
2 comments
REI Flash 45 Pack
Nicely balanced pack designed with comfortable features for a fast weekend trip or ultralight getaway. While designed for overnighters, could…
reviewed by MountainMike11
September 3, 2015
votes
1 comment
Klymit Inertia O Zone
While I enjoy this product and find it comfortable, there are compromises that must be made to meet the low weight of the product. Best for…
reviewed by MountainMike11
September 3, 2015
votes
5 comments
UnTapped Maple Packets
Untapped All Natural Athletic Fuel (which I will call "UnTapped" for the remainder of this review) might be one of the simplest energy supplements…
reviewed by andrew f.
August 28, 2015
votes
5 comments
Mountainsmith Six Pack
Although it has a slightly misleading name, the Mountainsmith Six Pack is a lightweight, collapsible cooler that has much more room than for…
reviewed by KiwiKlimber
August 25, 2015
votes
5 comments
Perception Expression 11.5 Kayak
Great multi-purpose boat for those of us who can only afford one boat. Suitable for a variety of situations, though probably not the ideal boat…
reviewed by Siltloam
August 23, 2015
votes
1 comment
Royal Robbins Traveler Stretch Short
So many great features combined into one awesome pair of shorts. The Royal Robbins Traveler Stretch Shorts are now my go-to shorts for numerous…
reviewed by Chris Myers
August 22, 2015
votes
Royal Robbins Diablo Short Sleeve Shirt
Amazingly comfortable and useful in a wide variety of activities. The Diablo Short Sleeve Shirt will perform well and keep you looking sharp!
reviewed by Chris Myers
August 9, 2015
votes
3 comments
Six Moon Designs Haven Tarp & NetTent
Two separate products that can work together or separately, this is a lightweight 2-person shelter system with full coverage and adequate space.
reviewed by JRinGeorgia
July 30, 2015
votes
3 comments
Terramar Helix Crew Tee
A lightweight, inexpensive shirt, the Helix works well for many outdoor activities as it has a comfortable fit and breathes extremely well.
reviewed by Daniel Oates
July 19, 2015
votes
8 comments
Light My Fire Spork
An eating utensil that gets the job done at a low cost. Best for backcountry meals, especially trips with multiple meals where the user may…
reviewed by KiwiKlimber
July 16, 2015
votes
6 comments
Hoka Challenger ATR
I believe the shoe is best for technical trails (sandy, rocky, dry powdery dirt trails, and muddy slippery trails). I have used them in all… 
votes
4 comments
Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Jacket
High warmth-to-weight, uber lightweight, packs small. This is a very nice, lightweight down jacket, perfect for throwing in a daypack or backpack…
reviewed by bigskyrunner
July 2, 2015
votes
3 comments
Big Agnes Insulated Double Z
The Big Agnes Insulated Double Z sleeping pad is a moderately lightweight full length sleeping pad that is very comfortable for limited 3-season…
reviewed by Bill S
June 20, 2015
votes
6 comments
Nomad Life Titanium Stove
This sub 1oz stove puts out some serious heat and packs up small. Only one small problem. Looking for a stove to better fit my GSI Minimalist…
reviewed by ronrude
June 20, 2015
votes
1 comment
MSR Hubba NX
The setup and take-down is very quick. It fits into small awkward tent sites and although seemingly made of light material I found it very sturdy. 
votes
4 comments
Mountain Hardwear Shifter 2
Don't count out the dome tent! The Shifter 2 is a great all-rounder backpacking tent for what most of us do in the mountains, with affordable…
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
June 15, 2015
votes
4 comments
Salewa Wildfire Pro
The Salewa Wildfire Pro is, as its name implies, an approach shoe. As such it bridges the gap between a hiking shoe and a climbing shoe. This…
reviewed by schifferj
June 9, 2015
votes
3 comments
BearPaw Wilderness Designs Minimalist 2
A good little net tent, but roomy enough for 1+gear or for two shoulder to shoulder. Needs external support—hiking poles or trees at the least,… 
votes
5 comments
Big Agnes Seedhouse SL2
A high-quality, lightweight, dependable performer. I've had this tent out about 40 times in a variety of weather and I couldn't be happier with…
reviewed by T.J.
May 25, 2015
votes
5 comments
Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated Mat
Lightweight comfy pad, gives a great night's sleep. I was intrigued by Sea to Summit's new line of sleeping pads, so when the REI dividend and…
reviewed by David Link
May 18, 2015
votes
4 comments
Jetboil Pot Support & Stabilizer
The Jetboil Pot Support is a useful accessory that adapts a Jetboil stove for a full range of cooking options using various pots and pans. When…
reviewed by Lah
May 10, 2015
votes
6 comments
MSR Revo Ascent
MSR has created a good all-around 'shoe which uses spans from a beginner to a serious snowshoer. Its flex, fit, grip, and heel lift bar create…
reviewed by second gear
April 23, 2015
