Reviews
votes
2 comments
3M Ultrathon 33 Insect Repellent Sponge Applicator
Most effective, longest lasting insect repellent I've ever used. Period. It says; "Lasts 8 to 12 hours." And it actually does! I've spent thousands…
reviewed by TJCeeJay
July 26, 2013
votes
2 comments
Fenix PD32 Ultimate Edition
The PD32 UE is not to be confused with the PD32. The two are the same except the UE model operates at higher lumens throughout the all the settings…
reviewed by PappyHiker
July 22, 2013
votes
1 comment
MEC Silicone Guides Tarp
Great all-purpose emergency shelter for a small group. This is Mountain Equipment Co-op's larger housebrand siltarp. Personally, I'm not fond…
reviewed by Peter1955
July 18, 2013
votes
7 comments
The North Face Arcus 23
While it may look like the Tadpole, this isn't the same [2-person] tent. The illegitimate child of TNF's "Tadpole" and "Kings Canyon" tent lines,… 
votes
5 comments
Osprey Viva 50
The Viva series is advertised as being without all the bells and whistles but I would argue that it is chocked full of features which, for the…
reviewed by Twig
July 3, 2013
votes
REI Travel Sack +55
A lightweight, relatively inexpensive "55°F" sleeping bag/liner that provides me with a number of options in summer and winter conditions.
reviewed by G00SE
June 14, 2013
votes
2 comments
Skratch Labs Exercise Hydration Mix
Finally an exercise drink with real ingredients and no bellyache Oh great, another sports drink! A powdered mix of something you can’t pronounce…
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
June 10, 2013
votes
3 comments
Scarpa Spark GTX
Great scrambling/approach shoes. Perfect for mud runs. The trail is rocky, and now that the Sun is rising I can finally see it. The red sky…
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
June 10, 2013
votes
2 comments
Eagles Nest Outfitters Ignitor
The ENO Ignitor Topquilt will allow you to extend your hammock camping well into three seasons and even into some milder four-season camping.
reviewed by TheRambler
May 11, 2013
votes
1 comment
Solo Stove Lite
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. … 
votes
4 comments
Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Jacket
The Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Jacket is a versatile, light-to-midweight softshell that's best for fast-paced activity in cold weather. The Dawn…
reviewed by Seth Levy
April 30, 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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McMurdo Fast Find 210
Being difficult to rate something I've never actually had to use, an excellent product for one that needs a long term insurance product that…
reviewed by Sean Van Cleve
April 21, 2013
votes
2 comments
Patagonia Ultralight Down Jacket
The Patagonia Ultralight Down Jacket is a great three-season jacket made of 800 fill down and 10 denier ripstop nylon. It is impressively warm…
reviewed by Ashleigh
April 14, 2013
votes
1 comment
GSI Outdoors Infinity Insulated Mug
The GSI Infinity Insulated Mug is my go-to backpacking cup. It is lightweight, sturdy, insulated, and has a lid. I use it for hot chocolate,…
reviewed by Ashleigh
April 14, 2013
votes
3 comments
Rab Strata Hoodie
My new favorite belay jacket. Warm, breathable, water resistant, VERY light! I received this jacket as a sample to review for Trailspace Review…
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
April 8, 2013
votes
3 comments
Therm-a-Rest Antares 20
The Antares is a roomy, versatile 3-season down sleeping bag with a hybrid design which both keeps overall weight low while keeping you on your…
reviewed by pillowthread
March 26, 2013
votes
1 comment
Trangia 27-8 UL/HA
The Trangia system is widely used in Europe, even in extreme cold temperatures and high altitudes. It is simple, reliable (no moving parts)…
reviewed by Blacksmith
March 21, 2013
votes
4 comments
Gerber Bear Grylls Parang
This machete is heavy duty and stands up to repeated hard use. It is heavy, but it performs heavy duty chores that a lighter blade may not be…
reviewed by malotrekker
March 6, 2013
votes
2 comments
Six Moon Designs Skyscape Scout
A great lightweight shelter that doesn't break the bank! For the past year, I've been looking for a lighter tent to replace my MH Lightpath…
reviewed by mangus7175
February 27, 2013
votes
3 comments
Lowe Alpine AirZone Pro 45:55
The Lowe AirZone Pro is a lightweight internal frame pack that can serve a lot of different purposes. Because it has the "Airzone' back that…
reviewed by andrew f.
February 22, 2013
votes
Brunton Restore
The Restore is a compact, extremely rugged solar charger and back-up battery designed for small USB electronics like iPhones, androids, iPods,…
reviewed by MoeIsMe
February 7, 2013
votes
Harmony House Backpacking Kit
The Harmony House Backpacking kit is a tremendous value, offering 3.5lbs of dehydrated food in small, resealable ziplock bags. This kit has…
reviewed by G00SE
January 18, 2013
votes
3 comments
Grand Trunk Funky Forest Tarp
The Grand Trunk Funky Forest Tarp is a HUGE hammock tarp with a 14.8' ridgeline. Being so large, the coverage is phenomenal, keeping this hammock…
reviewed by G00SE
January 17, 2013
votes
Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro
Great entry level hammock at a decent price. The Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro has been my entry experience into hammock camping. I originally…
reviewed by G00SE
January 5, 2013
votes
4 comments
Merrell Moab Ventilator
I have lowered my rating of these shoes by a full star following the disappointing performance of my second pair. While the first pair I owned…
reviewed by G00SE
December 29, 2012
votes
Merrell Moab Ventilator Mid
I would highly recommend these! Used only two pairs on my thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2012. I could not recommend these shoes enough. 
votes
Exped ComfortFoam Pillow
The Exped ComfortFoam Pillow is a great backcountry pillow. One of the most important elements of backpacking for me is to be comfortable when…
reviewed by Ashleigh
December 11, 2012
votes
8 comments
Black Diamond Icon Polar
The Black Diamond Icon Polar is a high tech headlamp featuring a wide range of brightness levels (4 to 200 lumens) and easy, continuous adjustment…
reviewed by Bill S
November 26, 2012
votes
4 comments
Outdoor Research Stormtracker Gloves
An excellent softshell glove that provides great dexterity, comfort, and protection from the elements. I would most certainly purchase these…
reviewed by Rick-Pittsburgh
November 4, 2012
votes
3 comments
MSR Surelock UL-3
Excellent, sturdy, lightweight trekking pole that collapses small, stores easily, does its job well, and looks darn nice, too! The MSR Surelock…
reviewed by JimDoss
October 7, 2012
votes
5 comments
Sport Kilt Hiking Kilt
For comfort, ease of movement and adaptability, hiking in a kilt for the first time can be a revelation. Sport Kilt manufactures a quality lightweight,…
reviewed by Terry.Tyson
September 24, 2012
votes
2 comments
Backcountry Solutions Keyhole
The Backcountry Solutions Keyhole Hands-Free Camera Harness is a unique way to keep your camera handy, secure, and motion-free around your neck…
reviewed by JimDoss
September 6, 2012
votes
3 comments
Outdoor Research Foray Jacket
Gore-Tex works! Great design in the best OR tradition, and an excellent fabric. Outdoor Research Foray Jacket, Berg Lake Trail, Mt. Robson,…
reviewed by Peter1955
September 4, 2012
votes
Hennessy Hammock Ultralight Backpacker Asym
The Hennessey Hammock Ultralight Backpacker Asym is a high quality shelter that will help you cut significant weight from your gear load. I…
reviewed by soleful2001
August 27, 2012
votes
2 comments
Sazzi Decimal
A unique revision of the flip-flop that has some nice foot stability and ground feel. Their light weight, relatively sticky sole, and improved…
reviewed by andrew f.
August 25, 2012
votes
10 comments
Justin Lichter Trail Tested: A Thru-Hiker's Insights Into Hiking and Backpacking
"Trail Tested" is a book aimed at providing a broad spectrum of advice on hiking and backpacking for the novice as well as seasoned hiker wanting…
reviewed by TheRambler
July 13, 2012
votes
4 comments
Klymit Inertia X Frame
The Klymit Inertia X Frame pad is an exceptionally lightweight pad designed for long distance hikers, bike tourists, or other backcountry adventurers…
reviewed by Seth Levy
July 13, 2012
votes
GoLite Jam 50L
This is a great entry level pack for those who are thinking or planning on entering the world of Ultralight/Lightweight Backpacking. The 2012…
reviewed by mangus7175
July 9, 2012
votes
6 comments
SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger
The Spot 2 is a small, rugged, highly portable, GPS locating device which allows the user to transmit pre-typed messages to friends and family…
reviewed by Rob R
May 19, 2012
votes
1 comment
GSI Outdoors H2JO! Coffee Filter
Best backcountry coffee maker, so far. So in my search for the ideal backcountry coffee maker I stumbled upon this one. My search had these…
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
April 19, 2012
votes
Bearded Stocking cap (home-made)
I showed a few pictures of these to my mom and she made a couple for my son and I. So I saw these bearded stocking caps online for twenty to…
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
April 11, 2012
votes
MSR Reactor
On long trips you'll only need one fuel canister! My Reactor boils water fast, even when it's windy. I take my Reactor when I'm on trips of…
reviewed by Mt2Mt
April 1, 2012
votes
1 comment
Mountain Hardwear Elkommando Kilt
The only thing I have missed since I left my pants behind and started hiking in kilts? A kilt made of fast-drying, brush-resistant nylon. The… 
votes
Outdoor Research Prismatic Cap
A bomber noggin topper for a wide range of temperature conditions... with one major quibble. Size: Large Color: Fossil & Black (I own…
reviewed by Rick-Pittsburgh
February 13, 2012
votes
White Box Stove
I received this as a Christmas gift. I was looking for an ultralight alcohol stove, and the White Box looked great. Received right from White… 
votes
Victorinox Swiss Army Soldier's Knife
Model: Victorinox Swiss Soldier Knife Type: Outdoor Origin: Switzerland Year of production: 2010(stamped on main blade) Model number: 53945…
reviewed by Rick-Pittsburgh
October 15, 2011
votes
2 comments
Leki Thermolite Aergon XL Antishock
Pole model: Leki Thermolite Aergon XL Antishock Pole type: Aluminum, collapsible, UL, antishock, trekking Origin(manufactured): Europe…
reviewed by Rick-Pittsburgh
October 12, 2011
votes
Opinel No. 8 Folding Knife
In the 1980s, Opinel folding knives were a camping store fad in North America, and I fell for them hook line and sinker. Since then, I've always…
reviewed by D williams
December 29, 2010
votes
Primus OmniFuel
Bomber. Simmers perfectly. Can't get it to simmer? Use it more and learn how to- it's you that's the problem- not the stove. With any fuel type… 
votes
Outdoor Research BackStop Gloves
The Outdoor Research BackStop fleece liner gloves with WindStopper have become my go-to gloves for year-round use. For a single pair of 100-weight…
reviewed by Alicia
November 11, 2010
votes
Primus ExpressSpider
Primus’s ExpressSpider is a small, lightweight (6.9 oz), affordable remote canister stove with manual ignition. It makes an excellent option…
reviewed by trouthunter
November 4, 2010
votes
LightHeart Gear Solo
This is a great double wall tent. I have used other tents like the MSR Hubba Hubba that weighed way too much. Over the past few years I have… 
votes
Sea to Summit Folding Bucket
This bucket performs reasonably well with some care. While it can be challenging to fill, and difficult to get it to stand up, it adds a real…
reviewed by bheiser1
August 11, 2010
votes
Katadyn Base Camp
I have used this filter on outings with our Boy Scout troop where the younger boys don't quite have the patience for pumping and where we have… 
votes
Hennessy Hammock Explorer Deluxe Asym
I love this hammock. Many of the negative comments I read above I have to disagree with. Like anything new, there is a learning curve involved… 
votes
ULA Equipment Catalyst
This pack is absolutely cavernous. It swallowed all my gear without using the extension collar space. The bellowed side pockets allowed larger…
reviewed by Chris C
July 13, 2010
votes
Tarptent Moment
An excellent design with great livability, light weight (28 oz) and VERY fast setup time. Vestibule useful for pack storage and foul weather…
reviewed by 300winmag
December 16, 2009
votes
JanSport Carson 80
I used a Trailwise ext. frame backpack from 1972 through 2006. It finally just wore out. I had seen a lot of internal frame packs during that…
reviewed by Brerarnold
August 28, 2009
votes
Hilleberg Staika
To put it in simple terms, this is the best tent I've ever seen for our needs. I have looked throughout the world at tent offerings, following…
reviewed by Miles2go
March 9, 2009
votes
1 comment
Limmer Light-Weight
This all-leather hiking boot is comfortable, stable, durable, yet not super-heavy. I love it as an all-around hiking boot. It is well-suited…
reviewed by andrew f.
September 28, 2007
votes
Hilleberg Staika
What makes an initial good impression is this tent's free-standing quality and it's ability to be lifted and placed exactly where it needs to…
reviewed by Tipi Walter
September 19, 2007
votes
Mystery Ranch G6000
HERE'S MY REVIEW and a follow-up to an earlier Trailspace.com review. Okay, I've used this pack every month for the last 3 years on trips between…
reviewed by Tipi Walter
April 30, 2007
votes
7 comments
SealLine BlockerLite Compression Dry Sack
Dry bags (also called dry sacks if lightweight parts of packing system) are valued pieces of gear in our outdoor equipment arsenal. We use them…
reviewed by Sheila Bergin Goss
March 25, 2018
votes
6 comments
Montane Quattro Fusion Jacket
The Montane Quattro Fusion Jacket has an innovative hybrid design that incorporates both 800 fill down and Polartec Alpha Direct fleece insulation.
reviewed by Jim51111
March 24, 2018
votes
2 comments
Fjallraven Bergtagen Longjohns
The Fjallraven Bergtagen Long Johns is a base layer pant that utilizes wool in three different weaves to maximize heat retention in key areas…
reviewed by Jake W
March 12, 2018
votes
1 comment
Tecnica Forge GTX
The Tecnica Forge hiking boot is a heat moldable boot, integrating technology similar to that which is used in moldable ski boot liners. The…
reviewed by OutdoorKelly
March 6, 2018
votes
3 comments
Outdoor Research Ascendant Hoody
OR questioned everything, took a couple risks, and ended up making my new favorite mid-weight jacket. "It’s cute, but it looks like you skinned…
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
February 23, 2018
votes
3 comments
Outdoor Research Shiftup Zip Top
The women's Shiftup Zip Top by Outdoor Research is a versatile mid-layer that keeps me warm and comfortable across a wide range of outdoor activities.
reviewed by OutdoorKelly
February 22, 2018
votes
2 comments
MontBell Frost Smoke Parka
Super warm, very light, and durable. Great as a top layer on a super cold day, around a campfire, and as part of a sleeping system. I'd highly…
reviewed by _Christine
January 26, 2018
votes
4 comments
UGQ SilPoly Rectangular Cat Cut Tarp (10x12)
Light silicone coated polyester panels held together with sewn tape edges and ridge line make this tarp an easy to carry, yet sturdy shelter.
reviewed by LoneStranger
January 19, 2018
votes
8 comments
Cooke Custom Sewing 1.9oz Silicone Tundra Tarp
Sturdy materials well put together make the Tundra Tarp perfect for applications where lighter materials might be a liability. Custom made in…
reviewed by LoneStranger
January 12, 2018
votes
7 comments
SteriPEN Adventurer Opti
I’m sure someone out there could prove me wrong, but the SteriPen Adventurer Opti is a foolproof tool for purifying water in the backcountry.
reviewed by KiwiKlimber
January 10, 2018
votes
7 comments
Sierra Designs DriDown Pillow
Seeking a little more luxury and comfort in the backcountry? At around USD $25, the Sierra Designs DriDown pillow is a comfortable, reasonably…
reviewed by Bentbrook
December 30, 2017
votes
13 comments
Zelph's Stoveworks Modified Starlyte
The Modified Starlyte alcohol stove from Zelph’s Stoves is a great stove mainly for water boil that is ultralight, very fuel efficient, and…
reviewed by JRinGeorgia
December 26, 2017
votes
3 comments
Woolx Fearless Socks Crew Length Full Cushion
This is an extremely tough, durable, and comfortable pair of socks! I have used these socks for three-season wear, hiking, and snowshoeing in…
reviewed by Sheila Bergin Goss
December 20, 2017
votes
14 comments
Heroclip
The HeroClip is a very versatile accessory clip that can be used in a number of applications both in the outdoors and around the house. OverviewYears…
reviewed by Mike Mineart
December 11, 2017
votes
4 comments
Vibram FiveFingers Spyridon LS
Vibram’s Spyridon LS is a FiveFingers shoe intended for trail running. Design features that make these better for trails are a collar that…
reviewed by andrew f.
September 21, 2017
votes
2 comments
Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Pillow
A luxurious blow-up pillow with a brushed outer finish that is soft and smooth to the touch. The excellent 2-way valve makes getting just the…
reviewed by Steve Mullen
September 10, 2017
votes
2 comments
Vargo ExoTi 50
The ExoTi 50 is Vargo’s second generation titanium frame pack. This 50-liter pack is certain to appeal to those who love the external frame…
reviewed by G00SE
September 5, 2017
votes
4 comments
Vargo Triad Multi-Fuel Stove
The 2017 Vargo Triad is a very sturdy and functional alcohol/solid fuel stove that I will continue to use due to its bomb proof design and consistent…
reviewed by FlipNC
September 4, 2017
votes
1 comment
Redwick's Preserves Freeze-Dried Food
Redwick's Preserves is a family-owned operation that offers unique small batches of freeze dried foods that are ideal for backpacking. For people…
reviewed by Inga Aksamit
August 3, 2017
votes
3 comments
Big Agnes Kings Canyon UL Quilt
Great lightweight quilt for those hot summer nights. Having always used sleeping bags, I was looking for an inexpensive summer weight quilt…
reviewed by Jason Berry
June 30, 2017
votes
4 comments
Vasque Breeze 2.0 Low GTX
The Vasque Breeze 2.0 GTX is a very comfortable sport shoe best suited for hiking and lightweight backpacking. This is 4-star comfort with 2.5-star…
reviewed by Patman
May 16, 2017
votes
2 comments
Petzl Noctilight
Useful addition to a small Petzl headlamp, which turns it into a versatile lantern. Nice to have for those who need a night lamp or simply a…
reviewed by Vladimir Gorbunov
May 15, 2017
votes
4 comments
Alpine Start Original Blend Instant Coffee
If you’re looking for instant coffee you’ll do well finding Alpine Start. Upmarket of center, Alpine Start offers a boldness, a complexity…
reviewed by pillowthread
May 9, 2017
votes
4 comments
Darn Tough Vertex 1/4 Sock Ultra-Light Cushion
I don't know how Darn Tough does it, but I have put over 500 miles on a single pair of Vertex Running Socks, and they still look and feel great!
reviewed by G00SE
May 7, 2017
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 Insect Repellent Treatment for Clothing, Gear, and Tents
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 Twig
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
