Blog
Hiking Boots vs. Hiking Shoes vs. Trail Running Shoes

Hiking Boots vs. Hiking Shoes vs. Trail Running Shoes
Published:
June 17, 2020
Hiking footwear is a really personal choice, and people often have differing opinions on what type of shoe works best for hiking.
How to Wash a Down Jacket

How to Wash a Down Jacket
Published:
May 18, 2020
A lightweight down jacket should be at the center of any good backpacking list.
30 Great Deals at REI’s Anniversary Sale

30 Great Deals at REI’s Anniversary Sale
Published:
May 15, 2020
It’s the most wonderful time of the year for all of us gear nerds – REI’s Anniversary Sale! May 15th-25th is REI’s biggest sale of the year, and it includes deep discounts on some of our favorite backpacking, camping, and hiking gear. In addition to sale items, REI members also receive 20% off one full-priced item and an extra 20% off one REI Outlet item with coupon code ANNV20.
Hydro Flask Lightweight Trail Series Wide-mouth Vacuum Water Bottle Review

Hydro Flask Lightweight Trail Series Wide-mouth Vacuum Water Bottle Review
Published:
May 11, 2020
Hydro Flask’s Lightweight Trail Series Vacuum Water Bottles are seriously awesome. These bottles are 25% lighter than…
A Guide to Hiking in Torres del Paine: W, O, and Q Treks

A Guide to Hiking in Torres del Paine: W, O, and Q Treks
Published:
April 11, 2020
If it’s your first time visiting Patagonia, a visit to Torres del Paine will most likely be on your itinerary, and for good reason. This spectacular Chilean region offers some of the best trekking in the world – dramatic granite spires, immense glaciers, glistening turquoise lakes – all the ingredients for an unforgettable and rugged adventure.
20 Great Ways to Use Your REI 20% Off Coupon

20 Great Ways to Use Your REI 20% Off Coupon
Published:
March 20, 2020
With the continuing risk of COVID-19, we’re first and foremost hoping for the comfort and safety of our readers, friends, and family. While experts are recommending social distancing for everyone and self-quarantine if you’re exhibiting symptoms, we want to remind you all of the mental and physical health benefits of an outdoor lifestyle.
35 Great Deals at REI’s Member Rewards Sale

35 Great Deals at REI’s Member Rewards Sale
Published:
March 20, 2020
REI has shut its doors for the time being for the safety of retail employees (who are still being paid), members, and guests. That said, REI.com is still open and all REI members should have just received their dividends. REI’s annual Member Rewards sale goes from March 20-April 6th and it’s chock full of good online deals.
5 Reasons To Ditch Your Hiking Boots

5 Reasons To Ditch Your Hiking Boots
Published:
March 4, 2020
For many of us, it’s been drilled into our heads since day one that backpackers wear boots. That’s just what you do…
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa Ultralight Fanny Pack Review

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa Ultralight Fanny Pack Review
Published:
January 29, 2020
Hyperlite Mountain Gear makes some of our favorite ultralight backpacks, tents, and accessories, and they’ve done it again…
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.