Philip Werner

Philip Werner quit his corporate job in 2010 to become a full-time hiker, guide, and outdoor writer. Since then he's hiked over nice thousand miles, become an adept fly fisherman, XC skier, and written over 3000 backpacking and hiking articles for SectionHiker.com.

Osprey Aether 65 Backpack Review

Osprey Aether 65 Backpack Review

The Osprey Aether 65 is a multi-day expedition-style backpack with an adjustable torso length frame, adjustable length shoulder straps, and an adjustable length hip belt length so you can dial in a custom fit without having to swap out components or heat …

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Hilleberg Niak Tent Review

The Hilleberg Niak is a lightweight, two person with an inner tent that can be hung under the fly so it doesn't get wet in rainy weather

The Hilleberg Niak is a bomber, 2 person, lightweight tent designed for three-season use in remote wilderness conditions. Weighing 3 lbs. 5 oz. it has a dome style architecture with two cross-poles that slot into sleeves, not clips, making it much more wind …

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Osprey Exos 58 Backpack Review

Osprey Exos 58 Backpack Review

The Osprey Exos 58 Backpack is one of the most popular backpacks used by thru-hikers and lightweight backpackers because it has a ventilated, suspended mesh back panel that keeps you cooler and drier in warm weather and it weighs under 3 lbs. …

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Black Diamond FirstLight Tent Review

Black Diamond FirstLight Tent Review

The Black Diamond FirstLight Tent (updated for 2019) is a two-person, freestanding, single-wall tent for winter backpacking, backcountry skiing, and mountaineering. Weighing 3 lbs 1.3 oz (after seam sealing), it has a wind-resistant wedge shape that sheds snow well and packs up …

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Gossamer Gear G4-20 Backpack Review

Gossamer Gear G4-20 Backpack Review

The Gossamer Gear G4-20 Backpack is a 42-liter frameless roll-top backpack that weighs 25 oz. Being frameless it’s best for carrying loads under 20 to 25 pounds and makes a nice ultralight backpack for multi-day trips and extended day hikes. In many …

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ULA CDT 54L Backpack Review

ULA CDT Backpack Review

The ULA CDT is a 54L frameless backpack designed for ultralight backpacking, long day hikes, or travel that has a maximum recommended load of 25 pounds. Weighing 27.1 oz (768 g), the CDT is a streamlined backpack with 36 liters of closed …

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Big Agnes C-Bar 2 Tent Review

Big Agnes C-bar Tent Review

The Big Agnes C-Bar Two Person Tent is a surprisingly affordable backpacking tent with a trail weight of 3 lbs 9 oz. Fully-featured, this double-wall tent is easy to set up and made with heavier and more durable materials than Big Agnes’ …

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