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Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 Women’s Hiking Pants Review
a day hiker wearing the north face aphrodite 2.0 pants on a trail through an aspen forest

The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 Women’s Hiking Pants Review

Published: October 21, 2024
Flow up and over passes and along valley river trails in hiking pants that feel like your favorite pair of leisurewear.
Sea to Summit Telos TR2 Tent Review
two backpackers below a volcano in oregon sitting inside their sea to summit telos tent without the rain fly

Sea to Summit Telos TR2 Tent Review

Last Updated: October 18, 2024
This backpacking tent offers standout features, including exceptional headroom, light-dispersing Lightbar, and adaptable ventilation, adding luxury to a rugged design.
REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent Review
Two people sit outside a yellow tent with forest, blue sky and mountains behind them.

REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent Review

Last Updated: October 18, 2024
This one of the absolute best value tents money can buy. It’s easy to set up, spacious, and made with high-quality materials, yet it costs significantly less than most tents in its class. We think one of the Half Dome’s best assets is its versatility – it’s large enough for car camping and light enough for backpacking.
7 Best Base Layers of 2024
A hiker stands in the woods wearing the Smartwool Classic All-Season base layer. Trees are in the background.

7 Best Base Layers of 2024

Last Updated: October 17, 2024
We’ve got your layering system covered starting with our trail-tested and reviewed guide to the best base layers around.
REI Midweight Half Zip Base Layer Review
A hiker climbing down some rocks in a desert landscape wearing the REI Midweight Half Zip Base Layer

REI Midweight Half Zip Base Layer Review

Published: October 17, 2024
If you’re only going to buy one base layer, this midweight budget friendly and comfy top is a great option. No base layer can do it all, but this one comes close.
Arc’teryx Rho Heavyweight Zip-Neck Base Layer Review
A hiker zips up the neck on the Arc'teryx Rho Heavyweight Zip Neck base layer. Trees are in the background.

Arc’teryx Rho Heavyweight Zip-Neck Base Layer Review

Published: October 17, 2024
This is a top-of-the-line base layer offering fleece-like warmth for cold campsites, alpine starts, or that long chairlift.
Ortovox 185 Rock’n’wool Base Layer Review
A hiker hiking through the woods with a pack and trekking poles while wearing the Ortovox Rock'n'Wool base layer. Trees and a trail are in the background.

Ortovox 185 Rock’n’wool Base Layer Review

Published: October 17, 2024
This midweight base layer features ultra-soft fine wool fibers and a comfortable, but snug fit making it feel warmer than other base layers of similar weight.
Smartwool Classic All-Season Base Layer Review
A hiker crosses a log wearing a backpack and the Smartwool Classic All-Season base layer. Trees are in the background.

Smartwool Classic All-Season Base Layer Review

Published: October 17, 2024
The value of this base layer is right in the name—“classic” and “all-season.” It utilizes a timeless design without overcomplicating things. The moderate warmth and excellent breathability make it an appropriate choice all year round.
Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie Base Layer Review
A hiker walks down a trail with mountains and trees in the background. He is using trekking poles and wearing a pack and the Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie

Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie Base Layer Review

Published: October 17, 2024
This is an ultimate layer. The one that you will always bring on every trip “just in case” and end up wearing everyday.
Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew Review
A hiker sips from a water bottle while wearing the Patagonia Capilene base layer. Trees are in the background.

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew Review

Published: October 16, 2024
A breathable wool base layer that nails the sweet spot for midweight warmth.
Women’s Houdini Wadi Shorts Review
A gear analyst wearing lightweight blue houdini wadi shorts at sunset on a clear evening

Women’s Houdini Wadi Shorts Review

Published: October 15, 2024
These shorts are a standout choice for those seeking a soft, lightweight, ultra-breathable pair.
Women’s Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts Review
a hiker posing next to a fence in a field of rabbit brush and sage in the sunny high desert

Women’s Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts Review

Published: October 15, 2024
All-around performance shorts with a lightweight, breathable fabric, this option offers a streamlined fit that’s both functional, durable and quick-drying.
Women’s Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts Review

Women’s Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts Review

Published: October 15, 2024
These shorts are incredibly lightweight and packable, ideal for minimalist hikers who need to save space and weight. Despite their featherweight feel, they’re durable with great zip pockets.
Janji 3″ AFO Middle Shorts Review
a women in the desert wearing the janji afo middle shorts in black

Janji 3″ AFO Middle Shorts Review

Published: October 15, 2024
These shorts offer impressive comfort and a lightweight design. They’re a solid value for eco-conscious hikers who prioritize comfort and breathability.
Women’s Patagonia Quandary Shorts
a women hiking in dry desert fields in orange patagonia shorts

Women’s Patagonia Quandary Shorts

Published: October 15, 2024
A great pair of shorts for hikers who want a technical short that looks like casual streetwear.
Best Headlamps of 2024
A backpacker reading a map in his tent at night using the Black Diamond Spot headlamps

Best Headlamps of 2024

Last Updated: October 13, 2024
Sunset doesn’t have to be the end of the adventure when you’re carrying one of our trail-tested headlamps recommendations.
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