Reviews
Greenbelly Meals Meal2Go
Greenbelly Meal2Go bars are excellent, balanced, calorie-dense meal bars that are perfect for backpacking and hiking. They taste good, are satisfying,…
reviewed by Shane
May 20, 2025
votes
2 comments
Snapdragon Laksa Curry
A spicy delicious cup of warmth on a chilly camp evening. Perfect when you’re at the end of a long trail day, but not quite ready for dinner.
reviewed by David Link
May 19, 2025
votes
Fieil Extra Thick Should Strap Pads
For some ultralight backpacks without should strap pads, these are an excellent and inexpensive way to make them more comfortable. I am a big…
reviewed by David Link
May 19, 2025
votes
Bibler Fitzroy
I've used this tent on multi-day backcountry skiing, the La Sal Mountains, climbing and mountaineering, all kinds of weather and circumstances—never… vote
1 comment
Forclaz Simond 500 Extend 80-120 L Duffel Bag
While not a backpack it is a great duffle bag for flights and vehicle-supported travel. Rainproof and wearable as a backpack it can expand or…
reviewed by Bob Peltzer
May 15, 2025
votes
Hurtta Venture No-Pull Harness
When hiking or snowshoeing with my dog, she tends to really pull on the long lead we use, causing grief to both of us as I have to correct her…
reviewed by Sheila Bergin Goss
May 12, 2025
votes
Arc'teryx Elaho Shirt LS
The best hiking shirt I've ever worn. Lightweight, feels soft on skin, dries quickly. Perfect fit. The Arc'teryx Elaho shirt is the best hiking… votes
Thule Chasm 70L
A great choice for a mid-large sized duffel. Durable, multiple good carry options, and some helpful internal organization. The shoulder straps…
reviewed by andrew f.
May 10, 2025
votes
Hammock Gear Mesh Tarp Sleeve
Hammock Gear's Mesh Tarp Sleeve is a light and durable tarp management solution. It allows for rapid deployment and recovery of most any UL…
reviewed by LoneStranger
May 9, 2025
votes
MSR Rapidfire
Excellent remote canister stove, much beloved, but long discontinued. I can't remember how long I have owned this stove, but I just wanted to…
reviewed by Gemma Seymour
May 8, 2025
votes
1 comment
Hammock Gear Dyneema Fiber Standard Tarp with Doors
The Hammock Gear Dyneema Fiber Standard Tarp with Doors combines UL materials with great design and construction to create an all-season shelter…
reviewed by LoneStranger
May 5, 2025
votes
1 comment
MSR Rapidfire
Great stove. Pretty sure this was the first canister inverter stove to come out on the market. MSR was way ahead of the curve. Now they have…
reviewed by Ramseybella
May 4, 2025
votes
Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Insulated Jacket
Worked great over layers...warm and weatherproof. The gear list for my recent Everest Base Camp trek included a parka. I didn't own one because…
reviewed by Bob Withrow
May 2, 2025
votes
Durston X-Mid 1P
This 2025 X-Mid is a decently priced, super light 1P double-wall trekking pole shelter that is a serious contender for the best shelter in its…
reviewed by Shane
May 1, 2025
votes
2 comments
Climb X Rave
The shoe is incredibly comfortable, and stretched a perfect amount to where I was able to continue tightening the shoe over the months I've… votes
Fjallraven Kajka 35
I needed a smaller, tough Fjallraven backpack than my (then) smallest Fjallraven the Keb 52L. This Kajka 35 M/L is now my go-to day pack. This…
reviewed by Denis Evans
April 28, 2025
votes
Walrus Orbit
Winter camping, maybe mid-spring and early to mid fall. Summer it's gonna get hot. Like all Walrus tents that IMO are over-engineered by two…
reviewed by Ramseybella
April 26, 2025
votes
Tarptent Scarp 1
A very stable four-season shelter for one, weighing under three pounds. Just celebrated my fifth anniversary with this tent. It's been my exclusive…
reviewed by Randy Givens
April 19, 2025
votes
1 comment
Gossamer Gear The One
"The One" is an ultralight 1P shelter meant for backpackers and bikepackers. It packs down small, requires two trekking poles, and is an excellent…
reviewed by Shane
April 5, 2025
votes
K-9 Dynamo
K-9 Dynamo adds joy to life, let alone camping. I'd give her 5 stars if she didn't steal the sleeping bag. I have forgiven her for the missing… votes
1 comment
Garmin fenix 7X
This watch is nearly perfect for any outdoor adventure. From running to hiking to swimming to boating, it gets the job done well. I will not…
reviewed by Shane
March 27, 2025
votes
4 comments
Ursack Minor Critter-Resistant Bag
A most effective way to store and protect your food, particularly from rodents, clever mammals, and birds. No need to hang your groceries from…
reviewed by Randy Givens
March 10, 2025
votes
1 comment
Osprey Aether 55
Let me just say, I'm getting lighter but not quite an ultralight enthusiast and I do love a full-featured pack that carries a load comfortably.
reviewed by Bob Withrow
March 3, 2025
votes
Initial Ascent Gen I IA4K Pack System
USA-made workhorse that will haul as much as you need. This new-to-me Initial Ascent Gen I IA4K pack system is one that I’ve been wanting…
reviewed by BrianD
March 2, 2025
votes
Xero Shoes Scrambler Low
Extremely comfortable, but not so capable. Great for walking and light flat terrain hiking, not so much for running. XERO ScramblerStats: Weight:…
reviewed by Levi_Athle
February 27, 2025
votes
Brautigam Expedition Works Titanium Pack Shovel
The coolest piece of gear you didn't know you needed! A lightweight titanium pack shovel with many uses. The coolest piece of gear you didn't…
reviewed by Nathaniel Miller
February 26, 2025
votes
1 comment
Moss Tents Big Dipper
Best base camp tent ever for hot, cold, rain, snow, high winds or anything else. Purchased in 1997 for $785 after a Walrus Mountain 360 left… votes
LuxuryLite StackPack
This pack is a carbon fiber and aluminum, external frame backpack, that uses multiple, removable, lightweight cylinders. My cylinders are in…
reviewed by Red Leader
February 16, 2025
votes
2 comments
Tarptent Sublite
The day that Tarptent released the Sublite Tyvek tent, I ordered one. Since then it has been my go-to tent for three-season use. It's lightweight,…
reviewed by Red Leader
February 16, 2025
votes
Rab Cinder Phantom Waterproof Jacket
Great well thought-through lightweight piece, made for cycling. This is a fantastic piece by Rab. It's well thought out. It doesn't have anything… votes
L.L.Bean Gore-Tex Cresta Hikers, Leather
All round best hiking boot for me. Hardy, long lasting, reliably waterproof in all conditions including deep mud (which kills non-leather Gore… votes
FITS Sock Light Hiker Quarter
Comfortable merino wool socks for running shoes or low hikers. The heel pocket is different from most other socks in a good way. This is relatively…
reviewed by andrew f.
February 9, 2025
votes
Outdoor Research Backstop Sensor Windpro Gloves
These mid-weight gloves are good for moderately cold weather. They are wind-resistant and go far enough past my wrist for good coverage. They…
reviewed by Shane
February 7, 2025
votes
Outdoor Research Fairbanks Fingerless Gloves
Outdoor Research's Fairbanks Fingerless Gloves are the best kind of simple: they do their job—keeping hands warm while providing finger dexterity—without…
reviewed by Alicia MacLeay
January 29, 2025
votes
2 comments
Scarpa Asolo Attak Trionics
Had my Scarpa Asolo Attak for over 30 years and they are still going strong. Having done all the Wainwrights, a lot of Scotland and Wales they… vote
Patagonia Re-Tool Hybrid Fleece Pullover
The Patagonia Re-Tool Hybrid Fleece Pullover is warm, cozy, and technical enough for a range of outdoor activities and travel. Patagonia considers…
reviewed by Alicia MacLeay
January 21, 2025
votes
LokSak aLokSak Element Proof Bag
These bags are airtight, waterproof, and certified to keep any belongings protected and submersible up to 200 feet! You can also use your touchscreen… votes
The North Face VE 24
Mine is a kind of VE 24 1/2, if you will. It has the two snow tunnels, no second door, but has the VE 25-style vestibule. I wish I had more… votes
1 comment
Marmot Trestles 0
Best for those willing to haul extra weight. Two will zip together to make a double bag for more warmth (even a wide and a long will zip together). votes
First Lite Men's 308 Pants
These First Light 308 pants are some of the best I've ever worn. They are super comfortable and look fine wearing around town. At the same time,…
reviewed by Shane
January 9, 2025
votes
Garmin Forerunner 245 Music
The Garmin 245 was one of the top three devices used to track running activities on Strava in 2024 (I don't think they differentiate between…
reviewed by Sammy312
January 8, 2025
votes
1 comment
Hammock Gear Pillow
The Hammock Gear Pillow is a packably small bag of down to rest your head on. Designed with hammock in mind it has an attached cord with clip…
reviewed by LoneStranger
January 8, 2025
votes
Leki Makalu Lite
Leki's Makula Lite three-piece collapsible, rigid aluminum trekking poles are updated from previous models with rubberized Aergon Air Thermo…
reviewed by LoneStranger
January 8, 2025
votes
Alpkit Chilkoot Softshell Hillwalking Trousers
Comfortable and robust walking trousers. Designed for walking but ideal for a range of activities, including being around camp on autumn evenings. votes
Smartbottle
Very lightweight and soft; I was surprised by the texture and material at first. I fell in love with how lightweight and space-saving it was. votes
Trangia 27-8 UL/HA
The Trangia 27 is practically wind-proof, very stable, easy to clean, able to use either mentholated spirits, solid fuel tablets, gel fuel or… vote
Vapro Orienteering Gaiters
Don't let your shins get bloody or bruised! Lightweight orienteering gaiters to protect your shins from thorns and nettles! These are shin guards…
reviewed by Sammy312
December 19, 2024
votes
GSI Outdoors Microlite 500 Flip
We loved the first one so much that wife made me buy her one. This purchase started as a travel mug for me for coffee. I soon found myself using…
reviewed by D Mizelle
December 18, 2024
votes
Merrell Wrapt Mid Waterproof
If you're looking for a somewhat minimalistic zero-drop trail shoe, you may want to check out the Merrell Wrapt. The Wrapts are almost like…
reviewed by Shane
December 18, 2024
votes
Str8 Evo Compass
A mid-range thumb compass from a newer company that has made several innovations and also sells more premium compasses. After using my Silva…
reviewed by Sammy312
December 18, 2024
votes
2 comments
Granite Gear Add-on Pocket
A handy pocket for keeping small items or gear secure and handy. The Granite Gear Add-on Pocket can be installed vertically or horizontally…
reviewed by Phil Smith
December 10, 2024
votes
Petzl Bindi
A tiny, lightweight headlamp with three white light levels, continuous low-level red light for night vision and a red strobe setting for emergencies,…
reviewed by BigRed
December 9, 2024
votes
Gregory Focal 48
The Focal replaced Gregory’s Optic line with a few improvements for 2022. I got the 48L capacity to replace my old, worn out Quechua MH500…
reviewed by StoicFabian
December 7, 2024
votes
Optimus Svea 123
My SVEA is 45 years old. Has never let me down. Is still going strong. Still available new and all parts are still available. To prime I use… votes
Big Agnes Farrington
Emergency use or as a booster is OK for skinny people, but it has a few design issues and could be better. Sometimes having a bivvy sack in…
reviewed by Moondog55
December 3, 2024
votes
1 comment
Black Diamond FineLine Stretch Rain Shell
A lightweight shell with all the right details. Good waterproof/breathability balance. Not especially rugged. In Arctic Sweden Weight, waterproofness,…
reviewed by BigRed
December 3, 2024
votes
1 comment
REI Miir 360 Traveler
A leakproof, sip-top, insulated stainless steel thermos that will keep drinks hot until lunchtime and beyond. Lid does not fully disassemble…
reviewed by BigRed
November 27, 2024
votes
1 comment
Zamberlan 320 Trail Lite EVO GTX
Out of the box comfort and Italian-made quality! In my saga of needing to replace my entire quiver of footwear, a sturdy hiking/light backpacking…
reviewed by Bob Withrow
November 24, 2024
votes
Optimus 8R
I bought this from REI in 1969, befor my first tour in Vietnam. It went back for my second tour. All the time overseas it ran on Army MOGAS. votes
2 comments
Big Agnes Gold Camp 5 Tarp
Low cost, mild weather, large shelter First impressions are often the best judgment and mine are that the supplied pegs are totally inadequate…
reviewed by Moondog55
November 6, 2024
votes
Xero Shoes Mesa Trail II
A minimalist trail runner with great traction. It claims to be very durable, and has held up well so far. This is how they look after over…
reviewed by Sammy312
November 4, 2024
votes
Insect Shield Easy Packs
Permanently treat your clothing against ticks! Instead of retreating your clothing with permethrin every six weeks, get a permanent treatment…
reviewed by Sammy312
November 4, 2024
votes
1 comment
Outdoor Research Cirque III Pants
More features than I thought I needed...until I used them. This is my first pair of winter trekking pants and I'm impressed! OR has been a trusted…
reviewed by Bob Withrow
November 4, 2024
votes
Sea to Summit Delta Light Insulated Mug
The Delta Light Insul mug has some interesting features that may appeal to backpackers. It’s made from plastic and can hold 350ml of hot or…
reviewed by StoicFabian
October 30, 2024
votes
Altberg Kisdon GFit
The thing you notice most about this excellent boot is how rigid the sole is. The second thing is how waterproof it is. The two-zone lacing… vote
Paka Everyday Baselayer
The Paka Everyday Baselayer is a soft and elastic long sleeve top that is a blend of Tencel (made from recycled tree pulp) and alpaca wool.
reviewed by Sean Van Cleve
October 23, 2024
votes
2 comments
Celestron TrekGuide
I’ve had it 10 years, beat the crud out of it, lost the manual and I can still use it and it still works. Not perfectly accurate but good…
reviewed by Sanskrit
October 19, 2024
vote
Six Moon Designs Skyscape Trekker
This is an excellent 1P trekking-pole tent that is lightweight, roomy, and not difficult to set up. It has weathered several storms and cold…
reviewed by Shane
October 17, 2024
votes
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm MAX
Best sleeping pad I ever owned. Never cold. Packs small, weighs about a pound. Have mastered the inflation sack and it's much faster than by… votes
SteriPEN Journey LCD
It just works. I have relied on this product for years to safely purify the tap water I drink. It is easy to use and purifies a 1-liter bottle… votes
1 comment
Zoleo Satellite Communicator
Simply carries out what it advertises. Rock solid Bluetooth connection. Excellent satellite connection. Very good companion Apple iOS app. I…
reviewed by Denis Evans
October 14, 2024
votes
Bedrock Sandals Cairn Evo 3D Pro
Five year after I purchased a pair of Cairn 3D sandals, I replaced them with the Evo 3D Pro and sold the Cairn 3Ds used. The Bedrock Cairn 3D…
reviewed by andrew f.
October 13, 2024
votes
Lifesystems Plasma Lighter
Tiny 118gm, 94x34x15mm, electric plasma (spark), fire starter. No messy chemical fuel, just a micro USB charged lithium-ion battery. For years…
reviewed by Denis Evans
October 13, 2024
votes
1 comment
Garmin inReach Mini 2
A two-way satellite communicator and potential life saver for whenever things go sideways anywhere outdoors. Send and receive messages and track…
reviewed by BigRed
October 12, 2024
votes
3 comments
Fire Maple FMC-XK6 Aluminum Pot
Pot heats evenly and very quickly. Lightweight yet big enough for two. Lid is the only weak point. I really like the Fire Maple Petrel, but…
reviewed by Brian Nordberg
October 10, 2024
votes
Flextail Tiny Pump 2X
Took one star off for the loud high-pitched noise, however that’s a feature not a bug and overall it’s a winner. A capable, convenient device…
reviewed by StoicFabian
October 10, 2024
votes
Mystery Ranch 3 Way 18L Expandable Briefcase
This is a briefcase made from backpack-caliber materials and that converts to backpack shoulder carry. It has comfortable handles, a usable…
reviewed by andrew f.
October 9, 2024
votes
Ciele Athletics GOCap
Breathable sun hat for hiking. I like the fit, the sun protective yet breathable fabric, and that the brim is soft and easily washable. Ballcaps…
reviewed by andrew f.
October 6, 2024
votes
Osprey Duro 6
A well thought out running vest for all-day mountain runs, bounce-free and with sufficient capacity for basic safety gear, an extra layer or…
reviewed by BigRed
October 6, 2024
votes
Jetboil Flash Cooking System
Jetboil Flash is an evolving product. Information about older versions may not apply. It is a great stove if it fits your needs and understanding. vote
Aricxi Flysheet Tent
Ultra-light one-person shelter. caption caption caption Getting older and desiring to carry as little weight as possible,…
reviewed by heathcote
October 2, 2024
votes
Tizip Zipper Lube
Tizip is a zipper lubricant/conditioner from the German zipper maker that can be applied to clothing or gear zippers to keep them working smoothly…
reviewed by StoicFabian
October 1, 2024
votes
Hanwag Alaska GTX
Great boots. Snug fit. But sole doesn’t last. Excellent shoes by all means, but for the sole. I have learnt the hard way, next time will look… vote
INOV8 Trailfly G 270
A rugged trail shoe with a long lifespan. Graphene-enhanced rubber ousole gives good grip and long life. I guess I must really like these shoes,…
reviewed by BigRed
September 25, 2024
votes
3 comments
Sea to Summit Jet Stream Pump Sack
The Jet Stream doubles as a pump sack to inflate Sea to Summit air pads and pillows, and to store these or other items. However, the small size…
reviewed by StoicFabian
September 22, 2024
votes
Zamberlan 1110 Baltoro Lite GTX RR
Super light—Super support I wanted to mention these because I was genuinely impressed when they arrived and I initially tried them on. It…
reviewed by Bob Withrow
September 20, 2024
vote
Zamberlan Vioz Lux GTX RR 1996
Italian quality and all-day comfort in a surprisingly lightweight boot. After thinking I was set for life on boots and other outdoor footwear,…
reviewed by Bob Withrow
September 17, 2024
votes
1 comment
Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo
Could the Lunar Solo be the best single-wall one-person backpacking tent ever? Tough question and that depends a lot on one’s needs and budget.
reviewed by StoicFabian
September 17, 2024
votes
2 comments
Hilleberg Anjan 2 GT
A solid, wind-resistant tunnel tent with a huge vestibule, lightweight for all the living space it offers. Tradeoffs associated with the tunnel…
reviewed by BigRed
September 17, 2024
votes
1 comment
Outdoor Vitals Altitude Sun Hoodie
The Altitude Sun Hoodie is a lightweight, quick-drying hoodie meant for warm/hot weather activities. It is quite fragile, however, and it snags…
reviewed by Shane
September 13, 2024
votes
1 comment
REI Packmod Rainshield Pocket
Previous versions used a magnet closure on the flap, thus the two stars. Now that velcro is being used, it might just be a useful add-on pocket.
reviewed by Randy Givens
September 12, 2024
votes
Dometic CFX3 25 Electric Cooler
The Dometic CFX3 25L Electric Cooler is a versatile cooler that can be taken on road trips or used at home for extra storage—no ice necessary.
reviewed by Mary Beth Skylis
September 9, 2024
votes
1 comment
Peak Refuel Chicken Coconut Curry
Great flavor. One of my favorite backpacking meals. It's basically chicken, rice, and carrots in a coconut curry sauce. I'm sure there's some…
reviewed by Jeff Pettett
September 4, 2024
votes
Benchmade Dacian
Newest fixed blade from Benchmade. Today I get to give you my assessment of my newest acquisition. Always looking for the perfect knife,…
reviewed by Wolfed
September 2, 2024
votes
2 comments
Optimus No. 00
Still an excellent winter stove. Burns hot, reliable, bomb proof. Recommended for week or more winter backpacking trips where two people share… votes
1 comment
Backpacker's Pantry Drunken Noodles with Chicken
Backpacker's Pantry continues its exploration of Asian cuisine in a freeze-dried format, and continues to produce solid meals at a decent price.
reviewed by JWatson
September 1, 2024
votes
1 comment
Fire Maple Petrel Ultralight Pot
Very fast boiling, small backpacking pot After seeing some reviews, I decided to give this a go. I started testing with my old 900ML cheapo…
reviewed by Brian Nordberg
August 30, 2024
votes
2 comments
REI Packmod Rainshield Pocket
A simple but effective add-on pocket to keep a smartphone within easy reach for photos or a map check. The rain flap opens and closes easily…
reviewed by BigRed
August 30, 2024
votes
1 comment
Kuiu Attack Pants
The Attack Pants, made for hunting (during which there is a LOT of hiking) are polyester with a 2% flex fiber coiled threads called "Primeflex". votes
Garmin GPSMAP 66i
It looks like this device is loaded with features and has really nice graphics compared to my previous Explorer +. I wish it wasn't so complex… vote
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