Ben Dawson, Author at CleverHiker

Ben Dawson

Gear Analyst

Ben is a full-time traveler, father, and adventure journalist/photographer based in the western United States. He has a passion for conservation and utilizes his writing to help make the outdoors a more accessible space for all types of people.

He began his career in the outdoor industry by running the day-to-day operations of a popular hunting and fishing network but slowly transitioned out of the office and into the field. Ben has over ten years of experience working in the outdoor industry. He has written for numerous outdoor publications, helped film and produce a video gear review series, and has rigorously tested all kinds of outdoor gear.

He has authored three guidebooks for Falcon Guides covering a range of topics from how to build your own van and live nomadically to hiking with kids in Glacier National Park.

Articles by Ben Dawson

Black Diamond Spot 400-R Headlamp Review

The image shot a blue Black Diamond Spot 400 - R headlamp sitting on a rock surrounded by water.

Black Diamond Spot 400-R Headlamp Review

Author

A rechargeable, dependable, thoughtfully designed headlamp that stays put on your head and has an impressive burn time.

Petzl Actik CORE Headlamp Review

The image shows the Petzl Actik Core headlamp laying on a log in the forest.

Petzl Actik CORE Headlamp Review

Author

Because of its brightness, reliability, and user-friendly interface, this headlamps consistently ranks at the top of gear guides.

Nitecore NU25 UL Headlamp Review

The image shows a black Nitecore NU25 UL sitting on the beach.

Nitecore NU25 UL Headlamp Review

Author

A functional and ultralightweight headlamp that is quickly changing the game in lightweight, powerful headlamps.

Petzl Tikkina Headlamp Review

The image shows the Petzl Tikkina headlamp sitting the sand.

Petzl Tikkina Headlamp Review

Author

A basic but solidly built AAA battery powered headlamp for everyday moments where you’d like to see in the dark.

Petzl Tikkid Kids Headlamp Review

The image shows a headlamp in the hand of a camper. The headlamp is facing the camper and there are mountains in the background.

Petzl Tikkid Kids Headlamp Review

Author

More than just a toy, this headlamp for kids is both functional and durable.

Petzl Bindi Headlamp Review

The image shows a side view of the Petzl Bindi headlamp sitting on the forest floor.

Petzl Bindi Headlamp Review

Author

A high quality, utterly minimalist ultralight headlamp. Great for front-country outings, and as a back-up in expeditions.

Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3 Tent Review

The image shows a side shot of the Mineral King 3 in a grassy environment set against a burnt orange sky.

Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3 Tent Review

Author

This tent is a fantastic crossover that hits all the right notes. It’s perfectly sized and has a familiar yet refreshing design.

The North Face Wawona 6 Tent Review

The image shows a wide shot of The North Face Wawona 6 tent. Both front vestibule doors are open and rolled up to allow a full view through the open vestibule. There are tree covered hills in the background. The sky is blue with mixed in clouds.

The North Face Wawona 6 Tent Review

Author

If you’re looking for a true basecamp tent with an almost impossibly large vestibule, top-quality fabric and poles, cavernous interior space akin to a New York City apartment, tons of pockets in convenient locations, and a design that will hold up to the elements despite its impressive ceiling height, look no further.

Kelty Wireless 6 Tent Review

The image shows a side view of the Wireless 6 with the front vestibule open and rolled back. There is a stakes out guy line showing the tightness of the fly when guyed out. The tent it in a grassy environment with trees in the background.

Kelty Wireless 6 Tent Review

Author

This tent is a feature-packed, six-person tent with a spacious interior and strong build, all at a surprisingly low price.

NEMO Aurora Highrise 4 Tent Review

NEMO Aurora Highrise 4 Tent Review

Author

This tent is spacious and easy to set up. We love the big door on the front and the windows on all four sides.

REI Wonderland 4 Tent Review

A medium wide photograph of the REI Wonderland 4 camping tent. The ten is set on a mountainside and the sun is setting in the background. Wildfire smoke shrouds the sky and the sun is setting with a twinge of orange in the clouds.

REI Wonderland 4 Tent Review

Author

This tent is one of our favorite shelters for frontcountry camping because it feels spacious, luxurious, and it’s super user-friendly.

Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp Review

a backpacker is reading a map while bundled up seated at the door of his tent

Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp Review

Author

One of our favorite headlamps for backpacking because it’s bright, afforable and has a long burn time.

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