Gear Reviews

The Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL 2 is an ultralight double-wall tent that only weighs 2 lbs 4 oz. It has two doors, making it ultra-convenient for couples, or as a palace for one, with dual vestibules for gear storage. But the …

Merrell’s Moab 3 Thermo Tall WP winter boots are insulated with 400g Primaloft Gold Eco Series synthetic insulation making them suitable for cold-weather hiking. While Merrell does not cite a temperature rating, these boots are comparable to other 400g insulated boots on …

The new MSR Hubba Hubba 2 is a lightweight freestanding two-person backpacking tent weighing 2 lbs 14 oz that provides lightweight livability, superb ventilation, and ease of use. This new 2022 version of the Hubba Hubba 2 provides a significant 10 oz …

The Zpacks Plex Solo is an ultralight one-person, single-wall tent made with Dyneema DCF that weighs just 13.9 oz. Retailing for $599, it has a hybrid pyramid shape and comes with a built-in bathtub floor, insect netting, and a front vestibule. A …

The Exped Ultra 5R Air Mattress is a lightweight inflatable sleeping pad that’s three inches thick and has an R-value of 4.8. It contains synthetic insulation, instead of reflective films, which makes it very quiet to sleep on, and is covered with …

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

The Fjallraven Bergtagen 38 is a waterproof mountaineering backpack that’s designed for winter hiking and climbing with modular components that added or removed depending on your needs. It has wooden frame stays, a lid, and hip belt that can all be removed …

The Sierra Designs Meteor Lite 3 is a freestanding double-wall three-person tent that’s a palace for two. It’s very easy to set up and comes with two doors and two vestibules that provide good gear coverage and access. Internal pockets provide good …

The NEMO Disco 15 is a spoon-shaped three-season down sleeping bag for camping and backpacking that has more elbow and knee room than a traditional mummy bag.  Its thermal retention and draft management features add to its versatility, and several well-designed small features …

The Mystery Ranch 2-Day Assault Backpack is a 27-liter daypack that’s great for day hikes, travel, school, and more urban endeavors. While it has a potentially off-putting militaristic name, it’s quickly become my go-to pack for overnight trips and plane travel, but …

Merrell’s Moab Speed Thermo Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are 200g insulated waterproof winter boots with aggressively lugged Vibram soles that are perfect for cold weather and winter hiking. They have wide toe boxes so your toes can splay out naturally and rock …

The Warbonnet Diamondback Quilt is a well-designed, high-quality backpacking quilt for use either in hammocks or on the ground. It has a 15D shell and liner, comes in a number of sizes, and has several color configurations. With 19.5 oz of 900-fill …

Backpacking rain pants are designed to keep you warm when you’re hiking in rain, snow, or a cold breeze. They do this by trapping your body heat and preventing cold precipitation, rain, or wind from stripping it away. While it’d be great …

The Outdoor Research Dryline Rain Jacket is a 2.5 layer waterproof/breathable rain jacket with pit zips, an adjustable hood, wrist cuffs, and a hem adjustment. The seams are seam taped to prevent leaking and the jacket has a waterproof main Aquaguard zipper. …