Apparel
Get year-round versatility for travel, trail, or town.
A versatile fleece midlayer that performs like outerwear.
An ultralight turtleneck that is 65 percent merino and 35 percent Cocona polyester.
A versatile jacket that's comfy in temps from 20 to 60.
A mideweight merino layer perfect for on or off the mountain.
A low-bulk merino sweater that can handle cardio workouts.
A jacket revered by a search-and-rescue team.
A slim, 100-percent polyester skull cap.
Stay protected from the elements with these nine hardshell picks.
A super breathable hardshell that also offers great protection.
A jacket burlier enough for a BASE jumper.
A shell that offers winter-worthy protection at a year-round weight.
A great fitting, great performing jacket for the ladies.
A lightweight hardshell for under $200.
Stay comfortable and carry less with these versatile, all purpose pieces.
Get performance summer apparel for less.
Stay comfortable in summer and beyond with these lightweight,
high-performance pieces.
Skip the new wrench sets and the flowery ties. Give the man on your list something that he’ll really be stoked about. We’ve got a slew of great dad-tested gift ideas starting at $20
These three key pieces will keep you comfortable on the trail.
A do-it-all hardshell for wilderness warriors who want four-season versatility in a light, packable, and impeccably cut package.
A featherweight, 800-fill puffy
From a smart-and-light pack to a groundbreaking backcountry communicator, here are the 12 products that passed the ultimate gear challenge.
These socks use a fabric that promotes airflow without sacrificing comfort.
Manage moisture with these lightweight, low-cuff socks.
These no-bulk baselayers provide warmth when you need it and breathability where you don't.
These baselayers deliver great moisture management and a skin-tight fit.
Water-repelling fabric allows for these cotton briefs to wick moisture and keep you dry.
With custom sizing and smart features these quick-dry pants are a must-have.
Prevent blisters with these liner socks.
These shorts are made to handle heat with a barely-there feel.
Keep comfortable in warm or cold with these no zip pants.
This full-zip jacket combines protection and warmth to create a great go-to jacket for staying warm.
From a pack that accommodates curves to two sports bras that go the distance, we've rounded up our favorite women's gear of the year.
Whether you're looking for all-day comfort or maximum support, we found two backpacking-friendly sports bras
HotTotties is Terramar's women's-only line, and it emphasizes femme-specific fit details–this top and bottom set is no exception.
Short pants that offer a blend of performance and style.
Zip-off pants? Yes, thanks to convertibles that finally bring form to the function.
All the great gear specs you're used to seeing in the Gear Guide - now in an easy-to-print digital format.
We tested more than 100 samples to find the best tops that breathe, wick, resist wear and tear, and keep you looking smart wherever the trail takes you.
A super soft tee that feels like cotton but is really a quick-dry performance synthetic
A wool/poly blend that dries fast and doesn't feel itchy
This long-sleeve top with UPF 30 keeps you cool and burn free.
This stylish button-down shirt is loaded with performance features
This t-shirt was voted our "best synthetic"
Sea to Summit makes a fingers-friendly, waterproof iPhone case, and Arc'teryx unveils a new hoody to covet.
This reader's wardrobe was letting her down on the trail. We outfitted her in some comfy boots with a versatile clothing layering system.
Warning: Wearing this jacket will encourage complete strangers to pet you.
The editors of Backpacker and Climbing weigh in on their favorite pieces of gear and gadgets.
A cozy hat and a cozy jacket for our always-cold staffer.
This hard-charging editor needs gear that can stand up to long, hard days.
Gear Editor Kristin Hostetter with her favorite gear picks for 2011.
A shirt that does dayhike and "meet the parents" equally well.
Keep your digits warm through any cold-weather outing.
Thanks to specially treated leather on the palms and fingertips, these gloves are gadget friendly...but still warm.
A versatile helmet that can cover deep freeze to shoulder season.
Two-layer insulated mitts lined with both synthetic fill and fleece.
A great lightweight lid for any cool weather outing or high-rpm activity in deep cold.
Great winter climbing gloves thanks to a Gore-Tex lining and EVA padding across the knuckles.
An 80-percent recycled cashmere hat delivers a bit of backcountry luxury.
Made with Helly Hansen's Lifa material, this balaclava wicks and dries super quickly.
Leather/softshell gloves that weigh less than a Clif bar.
This 100-percent merino cap will be your go-to three-season and winter-workout hat.
These all-purpose gloves cost less than $90.
A 93-percent nylon, double-woven cap that is extremely lightweight and low profile.
A super wide ear band with a brim that blocks sun while encouraging air flow.
A weather-resistant softshell that has strong moisture and odor control.
A softshell jacket made for skiing
A softshell with full-length side zips for great ventilation
A softshell jackets that's not too heavy, warm, bulky, or expensive
A softshell with a hood that's ready for any weather condition
Breathable and supple with the waterproofness of a hardshell.
A softshell that's weather resistant and super breathable.
The ideal jacket for high-effort pursuits in wet snow and drizzle
Bibs built for the worst of conditions.
Made for cold-weather hikes and cruiser snowshoe tours where ski pants seem like overkill.
Five-ounce down pants that provide instant warmth after bone-chilling hikes.
Absolute rain protection in a well-priced package
This shell is a good lightweight option for when you hit showery weather and need solid waterproofness and breathability.
A super durable jacket for the multisporter
A super breathable jacket for those foggy, humid hikes
A streamlined shell that achieves a low weight-to-performance ratio without scrimping on features.
Winner of our 2011 Editors' Choice Snow Award
A jacket that combines packablity, breathability, and durability, all at a great price.
This hardcore shell has everything you need to weather a monster blow without weighing you down
A convertible jacket that doesn't compromise
A jacket made for a mountaineer
Don’t muck up the performance of your pants by wearing cotton undies underneath.
This baselayer fits like a cycling skin suit without looking like underwear
You’ll get your money’s worth out of this spendy but multifunctional merino hoody
Tough, weather-resistant, and stretchy, these pants are also supremely breathable.
This midweight merino top sports a hidden 7-inch diagonal zip
Beyond creates custom-made trail clothes at a remarkable price.
With Columbia’s Omni-Heat technology you get the warmth of a much thicker baselayer from a thin fabric
Toe socks that give you the benefits of barefoot running with the comfort of socks.
A sock made for those in-between days.
These lightweight ski socks are warm, snug, and boot bang friendly.
A seamless sock that's blister proof.
It looks like a button up, but is amazingly functional in the backcountry
These super cushy socks provide all-day comfort.
This fine-gauge merino feels like my coziest pajamas.
Three skirts for conquering the backcountry with a dash of feminine style.
This polyester jersey is loose and meshy while still being a great sun barrier.
An extremely lightweight and tough jacket that's only $70.
This hoodless Patagonia jacket is extremely breathable.
A windproof jacket with a warm, brushed tricot lining.
This waterproof, windproof jacket loves crappy weather.
A great jacket for trail runners at only five ounces.
A fully-featured topper, the Tilley TWP1 waterproof hat has enough style to satisfy even the snobbiest hiker.
Throw the 800-fill Sierra Designs Gnar Hoody for a cozy extra layer.
A retro-looking (albeit heavy) coat that stands up to wintry weather and hard work.
Socks to hats to sports bras–the essential gear for any female hiker.
Whether you're shopping for your wife, mom, girlfriend, or BFF we've done the heavy lifting for you with 40 picks that are sure to make her Mother's Day.
Fool-proof sun protection for her noggin
Finally–a flattering sports bra
Say goodbye to hat head
Maximum warmth for minimum weight
Plushly padded socks for all-day comfort
An eco-friendly jacket that performs and won't break the bank
This mid-weight fleece is ultra-comfy, stretchy, and warm.
A featherweight softshell with the biggest pit zips you've ever seen
A cute, comfy, and functional hiking skirt
A comfortable, cute, easy-to-wear top
A densely knit merino wool that fits and breathes well.
A wool boxer brief for him (even if he hates wool).
A sports bra with a very supportive wraparound design.
A little bit of spandex helps these boy boxers (for her) stay in place.
A long-sleeved shirt built for hot and sunny weather.
Socks that stay plush through heavy miles.
Socks with friction protection in all the right places.
Socks that promise no blisters–and deliver.
Shorts that move but aren't baggy.
From a bargain ultralight tent to perfect-fit boots, here are 14 products that passed the ultimate field test.
A stretchy, three-season jacket
A ridiculously light shell that also blocks wind and rain.
The perfect three-season jacket.
PrimaLoft, DWR-treated Pertex Quantum, and recycled polyester make this a warm and eco-friendly puffy jacket.
A hooded, 800-fill down puffy.
Lightweight and durable shell pants.
Styled like cotton pants, but built to work out.
Merino/synthetic socks that will make kids' feet happy.
A hooded, seam-taped, DWR-treated rain jacket for kids.
For outdoor kids, a baselayer that will keep them dry and warm.
A polyester performance t-shirt that's worth every penny–and we're giving away four! Read on to win!
A stretchy, superbreathable sun hat.
A storm shell and umbrella for your head
A versatile balaclava made of a blend of fabrics.
A 100-percent wool-lined glove that heats hands instantly.
A great all-purpose glove for high-output activities.
Gore Windstopper covers the back of the hand from cuff to fingertips.
A heavyweight baselayer that's soft and fitted, and stretch and warm.
This 70/30 silk/wool baselayer keeps you warm while also wicking.
A 100% polyester t-shirt that feels just like cotton.
A polypropylene/polyester blended baselayer that wicks away sweat.
5 near-perfect pieces of gear in our 2011 Editors' Choice testing
Get total weather protection for half the gas.
Get a softshell that's so light and versatile, you won't leave it behind on multiday treks.
A light, warm, synthetic layering piece ideal for damp conditions and active pursuits.
An extremely light and extremely packable windshell.
A packable puffy with a sleek, athletic fit.
Our official test team logged more than 2,337 miles and 263 nights in the backcountry to find the best gear for every type of hiker.
Dawn-to-dusk adventure ahead? Prepare for anything with this versatile system.
It's a stretchy winter softshell completely coated in high loft, fuzzy lining. Need we say more?
Has 24 pockets to keep all your gadgets in place
This puffy has high-end weatherproofing and an insulated, versatile hood
These four-way stretch, double-weave polyester pants are comfortable and quick drying.
A stretchy softshell jacket that is perfect for dayhikes
If your winter gear closet includes skis, snowshoes, snowboards, and sleds, you need only one pair of drawers: the men's Sierra Designs Fusion Pant.
Don't break the bank with these gift ideas for the adventurous types.
Made from 50% recycled polyester (and 50% virgin poly) the Sahara has a relaxed fit, a soft cottony feel, and no-fuss styling.
Here is a lightweight glove ideal for 3-season hikers, cross-country skiers, cold-weather cyclists, or runners who want to stay connected to their gadgets.
Active ladies need active undies, and this ensemble fits the bill and still looks cute.
Drop one of these utilitarian, yet cool-looking, belts into any guy's stocking and he will love it.
Just because you can't be in the backcountry everyday doesn't mean you can't dress for it.
Ditch your hiking boots for these fleece-lined slippers and relax.
Gloves that are rugged and cheap.
Gloves made with thermal-reflective Omni-Heat lining.
Tuck chemical handwarmers in these mitts for long-lasting heat.
Tough gloves that still let you use your fingers for delicate tasks.
The best gloves for wet and cold we tested.
These zippered gaiters keep out crusty debris.
These gaiters thrive in wet, wet conditions.
Made for ice climbers–perfect for anyone who needs tough, tall gaiters.
Ski socks that protect shins from boot bang.
Multi-season socks with tons of cush.
Bargain socks that are warm and resilient.
Perfect fit and great performance
The most comfortable helmet in our test.
An ultralight helmet with 16 vents.
A merino wool beanie for temps down to 25°.
A two-in-one hat that keeps out cold and precipitation.
A cap that lives up to its name
A full-face balaclava
A winter ball cap that's filled with down.
A barely there beanie for high-octane workouts.
Softshell pants that are waterproof, breathable, and abrasion resistant.
Lightweight bibs that turn into pants with a zip.
Breathable softshell pants for skiers that log logs of vertical.
Ski or snowboard pants that won't get shredded.
Ultralight shell pants that protect from snow and cold.
A new fabric makes this synthetic zip-t odor free.
A superthin merino layer that is deceptively durable.
The softest baselayer we've tested...ever.
Baselayer bottoms that you can wear solo.
A bargain layer that's pretty and tough.
A short-sleeved baselayer for year-round wear.
A built-in neck gaiter for her and a built-in hoody for him give this shirt head and neck protection.
Patagonia updates this perennial favorite making it lighter, faster-drying, and softer then previous Capilene layers.
A full-body baselayer (a.k.a. pilot or "union" suit) that's as warm as they come.
Nordic skiiers and runners will love this moisture moving layer.
A three-in-one jacket system...that works.
This lightweight fleece jacket has been a long-time tester favorite.
-20°? No problem for this bargain heater.
A super warm jacket that compresses down to softball size.
Columbia's "Omni-Heat" increases insulation by 20 percent over standard fill.
A core-warming affordable, functional vest.
A versatile jacket that blends in anywhere.
A waterproof ski jacket that's warm as well.
A hybrid softshell/puffy jacket.
A water resistant, down-filled force field.
A weather-resistant shell that's as warm as a sweater.
This wind resistant yet breathable softshell is great for layering.
An ultralight softshell that wicks.
A midweight softshell that's multiseason.
This softshell provides maximum breathability and weather protection.
This eco-friendly jacket is everything you'd expect from a midweight softshell.
A bargain softshell that's cozy and great for aerobic activities.
One pound of all-purpose protection
A good looking jacket with plenty of storm protection.
A versatile ski shell at a great price
An ultralight hardshell jacket for under $150.
A versatile hardshell that's lightweight and breathable.
Reinforced shoulders and three-layer Gore-Tex Pro Shell fabric make this jacket super tough.
An all-conditions jacket that's under $200.
255 gear reviews and cold-weather tips!
For those times when a little skull cap just want do, but you still want a hat that wicks and breathes.
A stylish hat that packs small and combats camp hair.
Three-season wool and polyester pants.
Warm, light fleece pants.
For those times on the trail when serious hiking pants are overkill.
This all-natural wonder fabric keeps you warm, cool, and stink-free.
Recycled polyester and bamboo makes this a super green baselayer.
A fuzzy top that never smells.
Lightweight and fast drying
Outlast fabric regulates your body temperature for you.
For the cost, you won't find a warmer down jacket.
A synthetic puffy that turns into a neck pillow.
The lightest jacket in our under-$100 test.
A cold-weather rain jacket that's $90.
A $100 jacket which doesn't skimp on features.
Ventilation on this jacket is top-notch.
The most bomber shell in our test.
A t-shirt with air conditioning.
Found: A flattering, supportive, non-chafing sports bra.
Top-shelf summer weight gloves with the added bonus of a touchscreen trapdoor for your index fingers.
Toasty, stretchy tights you don't have to hide.
Need pants you can wear for two weeks straight and still be presentable? Slip into the Rampart from ARC'TERYX.
The fit, the fabric, and the details make these pants shine.
A backcountry performance top that performs as good as it looks.
Our tester took a pair of Patagonia Borderless Messenger Shorts (a.k.a Capris) on the trail, begrudgingly. But he came back a happy man.
This upgrade to The North Face's tried and true convertible pant makes the grade.
Having the right boots, packs, bags, and tents is never enough. Here, a roundup of all the other "essential" pieces of gear you'll want in the great outdoors.
Winter skivvies at their finest.
These chafe-free undergarments also wick away moisture.
Underwear for the outdoorsy man.
This button-down sun shirt has a high collar and UPF 30 fabric.
This hiking shirt blends hippie style with technical attributes.
Proof that clothes that fit better last longer.
Fleece sturdy enough to satisfy an Argonaut.
These socks have padding that won't quit.
This Feathered Friends puffy jacket stays fatter than a StayPuff marshmallow.
This Arc'teryx Alpha SV Jacket is overkill when you need it.
No stink sock liners, rough & tough sandals, and a puncture-proof water bag.
The toughest, most versatile windshirt around.
Thirty indestructible gear picks from two decades of hardcore field-testing.
Long-lasting socks that will keep your feet warm and dry.
These midweight hiking socks can stand up to serious miles.
Stretchy socks that never sag and always feel plush, even after big miles.
These five-toes socks squelch blisters.
Light, tough shorts ideal for hiking and hanging.
Super-comfy quick drying shorts for hiking, riding, or climbing.
This lightweight shell is mountain ready.
Total rain protection at a happy, happy price.
A do-it-all rainshell with a roomy cut.
This stretchy-baffled down jacket traps mega heat for serious warmth.
Breathable rain-rebuffing pants that pack tiny
Stretchy fabric and a clean, comfy cut make these hiking pants super-versatile.
A cozy cocoon for your neck and face
A streamlined softshell that packs up small and cuts the wind
Hiking pants that are as tough as your kids
An affordable kids' rain jacket that can handle serious weather
A versatile head accessory that morphs from hat to gaiter to balaclava to pony-tail holder
A comfy cap for hot days
A cozy and cute wool hat
Nimble gloves for cold weather hiking
Minimalist gaiters to keep out dirt and debris
A super-versatile, fleecy layering piece
The most rugged, stink-proof dog collar we've found
Boost the performance of your down gear
A midweight base layer for cool to cold weather hiking
A lightweight layering piece make of bamboo
A superlight wool base layer that shines 12 months a year
A tee-shirt designed for super-hot weather
Whether you're skiing, snowshoeing, running, or hiking this winter, grab one of these softshells.
These six hardshell jackets will keep you covered in any weather.
From shorts to tops, we've got your core coverings.
This shell-puffy combo comes with a shorter fit for climbers.
The super warm Rab jacket has an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio.
Mount Hardwear combines a puffy with a shell in their Synchronicity jacket.
This featherweight MontBell jacket is perfect for moderate winter temps.
This 700-fill down jacket was an instant tester favorite.
You could live in this Patagonia merino baselayer for weeks.
When it's extra cold, don this full body baselayer by Outdoor Research.
Worn as underwear, or solo, these "runner shorts" are a versatile bottom base layer.
This Icebreaker top is great for trail running and other high aerobic activities.
This First Ascent top works as a baselayer and a jacket.
This athletic baselayer feels like cotton but works like high-priced synthetic, for only $35.
BACKPACKER contributing editor John Harlin III first summited Mt. Hood at age 11 and has climbed the peak in every season. Here, he gives you his gear checklist for hitting the mountain right.
Our female testers pick their favorite gear for fall hikes.
Our tester spent 18 days climbing, camping, and evaluating gear on America's highest, coldest peak. If his picks made it there, they can make it anywhere.
For all-purpose performance year-round, this layering system works overtime through any weather.
Don't let a crappy forecast keep you home for the weekend. Just pack this deluge-tested system.
From the Grand Canyon to sunshine-pounded Colorado peaks, stay cool and comfortable with this ultralight system.
Our testers faced raging blizzards, pounding hail, frigid temps, and 60-mph winds to select these top clothes.
Wild weather coming? We've devised a perfect system for every condition.
We couldn't fit all of our reviews in one spot. Here, read the outtakes.
Save weight, your feet, and money with these three pieces of ultralight gear
From $500 to under $150, Backpacker has found the best rain shells for blowing snow or driving rain.
Made with down or synthetic fibers and paper-thin shells, these puffy jackets weigh less, loft higher, and pack much smaller than fleece.
These eight trail tops wick sweat, look great, and fit great. Wear them for a run or a week-long trek.
Before shopping for gear it's important to plan a budget, do your research, and prioritize.
Clothing is gear that's just as important as a tent or sleeping bag. We'll help you choose wisely.
Ward off the chill of cooler temps with these
Backpacker-tested base layers and shells
Comfortable, water-resistant fabric earns points lost from this jacket's boxy fit
A little extra money buys a lot of extra wear with Arc'Teryx's latest T
Budget shopper or big spender? We have the perfect three-season layering system for you.
Don't let your kid board the bus underdressed this winter
A bargain base layer designed to maximize wicking and enhance layering
The Harry Potter hat for AT hikers: a bandanna that doubles as the key to the trail.
These Editors' Choice Green Award-winning socks are soft on the planet-and your feet
How do you know that your gear is crying out for help? Consult our handy list of signs and solutions.
Look chic when you head for the alpine life.
Everyone knows good outdoor clothing is expensive. See if you can save your old hiking apparel.
