Gear Reviews

This is a follow up review to my original review of the Kovea EZ Eco, which I published last year on SectionHiker.com (click for previous review).  In that review, I found many things that I liked about the stove but ultimately could not recommend it because it appeared to be having …

The Therm-a-Rest Slacker Super Snuggler Underquilt (MSRP $129) is a simple-to-use hammock insulation layer that’s more comfortable to use than trying to wrestle with a sleeping pad in a gathered-end hammock. While designed for use with Therm-a-Rest’s Slacker hammock, it can be used with other gathered end hammocks that use carabiners …

The Sierra Designs High Side Tent (available Feb 1, 2018) is a single person, double walled tent that’s a big step up in comfort from a bivy sack. While it features excellent ventilation and a side vestibule, one of the stand-out features of this tent are its tent poles, which …

Using a Leave No Trace trowel is one of the most responsible things you can do to preserve the backcountry for others to enjoy. While there’s nothing quite as satisfying as having a good bowel movement outdoors in the crisp morning air, surrounded by white-capped mountains and wild flowers, it’s …

The Katadyn BeFree Water Filter is now available with three different soft bottles capacities: 0.6L (20 oz.), 1.0L (33.8 oz.), and the latest, a 3.0L (101 oz.) bottle. I think the 3.0L size is perfect for backpacking because it can be used to haul additional water for camping or to …

If you’re tired of drinking sickeningly sweet electrolyte replacement powders or mucking up your hydration pack with flavored electrolyte mixes, you need to try Elete Electrolyte Drops. Made from natural salt water from Utah’s Great Salt Lake, they’re tasteless and odor free. They don’t contain any sugars or flavoring, and have …

The MSR TrailShot Water Filter is a highly compact and portable water filter that lets you drink directly from natural water sources like streams, rivers, lakes and ponds. It has an unusual design that’s a lot like a water fountain (with a built-in water filter) so you can hydrate on …

The Mystery Ranch Scree is a 3.1 pound daypack with an adjustable length torso that’s designed for carrying heavy loads in rugged train. It’s made with burly fabrics to withstand serious abuse, with a unique frame system that won’t buckle if you have to haul heavy gear. External daisy chains, …

Outdoor Retailer is a trade show held every summer where gear manufacturers come together and show off the gear they plan to bring to market in the upcoming year. It’s a very social event where you get to catch up with old friends, drink a lot of beer together, and …

Ultralight backpacking tents and shelters come in all shapes and sizes, but each type has advantages and disadvantages for different camping conditions. It’s best to understand these before you waste money on a tent or shelter that doesn’t suit your needs or comfort preferences. There are six basic types of …