Blog
First Look: Therm-a-Rest’s New Valve System
First Look: Therm-a-Rest’s New Valve System
Published:
January 11, 2020
Therm-a-Rest is introducing their new WingLock air valve for 2020 and we were fortunate enough to get to test a first run sample. The new valve system is a great upgrade for the already awesome NeoAir sleeping pad line.
Backpacking & Camping Tent Size Guide
Backpacking & Camping Tent Size Guide
Published:
November 29, 2019
Size is one of the most important considerations you’ll make when choosing a backpacking or camping tent.
CleverHiker Sustainable Gift Guide
CleverHiker Sustainable Gift Guide
Published:
November 21, 2019
We love giving and receiving gifts during the holiday season as much as anyone. However, this year, instead of adding to the mountain of garbage the holidays create, let’s look for ways to show some real kindness and connection to those closest to us. Be an inspiration to your family and community this year by joining us in promoting sustainable gifting and taking action in caring for the places you love.
20 Great Deals at REI’s “Gear Up Get Out” Sale
20 Great Deals at REI’s “Gear Up Get Out” Sale
Published:
November 15, 2019
Before REI shuts its doors and encourages everyone to #optoutside and #opttoact on Black Friday, they’re having a huge sale. The Gear Up-Get Out sale runs from November 15 – 25 and includes some deep discounts on some of our favorite backpacking and hiking gear.
Do You Really Need a Tent Footprint & How to Choose
Do You Really Need a Tent Footprint & How to Choose
Published:
November 7, 2019
Let’s face it, tents are expensive. You want your tent to last as long as possible, but spending another $40+ on something you…
Zenbivy Light Bed Quilt Review
Zenbivy Light Bed Quilt Review
Published:
November 5, 2019
Love being warm and cozy but hate the feeling of constricting mummy sleeping bags? Zenbivy’s new Light Bed System might be the answer you’re looking for. The Zenbivy Light Bed (you choose your quilt and sheet) offers the temperature regulation and freedom of movement of a quilt, but it stays tucked in and retains heat more like a traditional mummy bag when the temperature drops.
Titcomb Basin Backpacking Guide – Wind River Range, WY
Titcomb Basin Backpacking Guide – Wind River Range, WY
Published:
November 4, 2019
With dense forests, granite slabs, high alpine meadows and lakes cradled beneath craggy granite peaks, The Wind River Range, or The Winds, as they’re called by fans, are jammed with bucket-list day hikes and backpacking trips that reward you with epic views and unbelievable beauty.
Gossamer Gear G4-20 Backpack Review
Gossamer Gear G4-20 Backpack Review
Published:
November 1, 2019
Gossamer Gear’s G4-20 new backpack has been designed for ultralight backpackers by ultralight backpackers.
Arc’teryx Proton LT Hoody Review
Arc’teryx Proton LT Hoody Review
Published:
September 16, 2019
Arc’teryx recently released the Proton LT Hoody (men’s and women’s), which is their most durable, insulated climbing jacket to date. The Proton provides lightweight synthetic insulation for a range of activities from climbing to snow sports to backpacking.
North Coast Route Backpacking Guide – Olympic National Park
North Coast Route Backpacking Guide – Olympic National Park
Published:
August 28, 2019
The North Coast section of Olympic National Park – from Shi Shi Beach to Rialto Beach – is not your ordinary walk on the beach. This route features some of the most rugged and isolated coastal landscapes in the country. From tidepools full of life to sea stacks miles out in the ocean, every headland you round offers another breathtaking view.
25 Great Deals at REI’s Labor Day Sale
25 Great Deals at REI’s Labor Day Sale
Published:
August 23, 2019
One of REI’s biggest sales of the year, the Labor Day Sale is happening August 23 – September 2nd and includes some of our favorite backpacking, hiking, and camping gear. In addition to deep discounts, REI members also receive an extra 20% off one outlet item with coupon code: LABORDAY19.
NEMO Hornet 2P Tent Review
NEMO Hornet 2P Tent Review
Published:
August 13, 2019
The NEMO Hornet 2P is a great option for solo ultralight backpackers who like having a little extra space at camp. We liked the previous version of this tent, and NEMO has made some really great design improvements this year. The 2019 Hornet offers more headroom and corner struts in the foot for easier setup without adding any weight. You can find the Hornet on our list of the 10 Best Backpacking Tents.
REI Kingdom 6 Tent Review
REI Kingdom 6 Tent Review
Published:
July 22, 2019
REI’s Kingdom Series was created for families and groups whose priority is space, comfort, weather protection, and livability while camping. The Kingdom 6 feels huge and sturdy in camp, but packs down small for your car and storage at home. REI Kingdom Tents are our top all-around luxury choice on our list of the 10 Best Camping Tents.
REI Grand Hut 4 Tent Review
REI Grand Hut 4 Tent Review
Published:
July 19, 2019
REI Co-op designed the affordable, yet high-quality Grand Hut 4 and Grand Hut 6 to make camping comfortable while keeping nasty weather out. The Grand Hut has lots of headroom and will allow you to fully stand up inside, but it also comes in a compact, easy-to-pitch package.
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol vs. NEMO Switchback Review
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol vs. NEMO Switchback Review
Published:
July 10, 2019
Closed-cell foam sleeping pads are a popular option among thru-hikers and lightweight backpackers on a budget, and the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol has dominated that market for many years with very little competition. New in 2019, the NEMO Switchback offers some long overdue updates. We were curious to see how the two matched up, so we tested them side by side to determine a winner.
Osprey Exos & Eja Backpack Review
Osprey Exos & Eja Backpack Review
Published:
June 28, 2019
The Osprey Exos 48 & 58 (men’s) and Eja 48 & 58 (women’s) are extremely comfortable, lightweight backpacks…