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Backpacker Magazine –
Backpacker Gear Testing Policy
Gear Testing MethodsAll product reviews that appear in Backpacker magazine and in the Gear section on Backpacker.com are based on rigorous field testing performed by our experienced staff and test crew. But before we even think about writing a review, we hammer products hard to make sure they’re worthy of recommendation. (Only a fraction of what we test actually makes it into print.) We test gear in a variety of conditions, terrains, and climates, and we test it for an appropriately long time to gauge durability.
Products are provided by manufacturers and returned following testing (exceptions: base layer clothing and footwear cannot be returned for sanitary reasons). All specifications are according to the manufacturer except for weight, which is verified by a BACKPACKER scale. All products as tested are available retail to consumers at the time of publication unless otherwise noted.
Gear Testing Policy
On Backpacker.com you'll sometimes see gear-related information accompanied by a sponsor's logo. These logos, or advertisements, appear long after field testing has concluded and the article has been written. Our policy is firm: No advertiser influences our field testing in any way. This way, our gear evaluations remain unbiased and objective. For more, see our Sponsorship Policy.
International Travel
From Nepal to New Zealand, we have stories and tips to help you plan the perfect 'life list' trek abroad.
Navigation Center
Learn how to orient a map, navigate any terrain, and the ins-and-outs of GPS devices.
BACKPACKER's Free Smartphone GPS App
Record and share you adventures with our new, free navigation app. Plus, discover thousands of GPS-enabled hikes in national parks and major cities.
Green Guide
A backpacker's guide to environmental issues and "green" gear.
READERS COMMENTS
Bet you do not a gear tester that is 6'2" over 300 pounds, how are big people suppose to find the right gear. I am a scoutmaster and have problems finding the right gear for me and my scouts.
mysonisascout@yahoo.com
Posted: Aug 09, 2011 MIke Lewis
I will be in the desert of the Southwest US for trips the next 2 months.
Do you have any equipment I can test for you?
Boots, clothing, hiking shoes, sleeping bags.
I will also be on the Green River and Colorado River so any waterproof sacs or other gear for river and hiking.
I will write an honest report on the product.
J Ginal
joannginal@yahoo.com
Posted: Aug 07, 2011 Joann Ginal
My children (6,7,8 and 9) are through hiking the Finger Lakes trail from the NY/PA border to the end, over 500 miles in hikes of 4-7 days at a time. If you need any children's products tested we'd be happy to abuse anything you send out way.
sgravino@roadrunner.com
Posted: Jul 22, 2011 Sarah Gravino
The NEO, the new age fanny pack is here, finally something new!
The FitPac NEO is fashion, function and innovation combined to create a trend setting advancement in the way you carry your smart phone, wallet, passport or keys conveniently at your side, a comfortable new way to keep you personal essentials secure. Easily adjustable and can be worn by men and women.
A great personal organizer for any savvy traveler. Whether you hike, bike, go to concerts, clubs or amusement parks you’ll also enjoy the style and utility of the FitPac NEO. Available at: www.fitpac.net
I would like to speak to you about doing a news story or product review about this unique, truly original product.
The NEO, the new age fanny pack is here, finally something new!
The FitPac NEO is fashion, function and innovation combined to create a trend setting advancement in the way you carry your smart phone, wallet, passport or keys conveniently at your side, a comfortable new way to keep you personal essentials secure. Easily adjustable and can be worn by men and women.
A great personal organizer for any savvy traveler. Whether you hike, bike, go to concerts, clubs or amusement parks you’ll also enjoy the style and utility of the FitPac NEO. Available at: www.fitpac.net
I would like to speak to you about doing a news story or product review about this unique, truly original product.
The NEO, the new age fanny pack is here, finally something new!
The FitPac NEO is fashion, function and innovation combined to create a trend setting advancement in the way you carry your smart phone, wallet, passport or keys conveniently at your side, a comfortable new way to keep you personal essentials secure. Easily adjustable and can be worn by men and women.
A great personal organizer for any savvy traveler. Whether you hike, bike, go to concerts, clubs or amusement parks you’ll also enjoy the style and utility of the FitPac NEO. Available at: www.fitpac.net
I would like to speak to you about doing a news story or product review about this unique, truly original product.
Don Hitchcock
Posted: Jun 13, 2011 Don Hitchcock
I am seeking product testers to abuse our products. Please visit www.steeliebelts.com. And visit the Guide/Pro program and we will send you a freebie.
Marcus Snyder
Marcus@steeliebelts.com
Posted: May 19, 2011 Marcus Snyder
How does one become a gear tester? I'm always looking for new gear to see how it does on the trail.
Posted: Apr 27, 2011 GeneG.
I would love the chance to test some gear. I have spent months at a time living in the jungle in south america (trying to get the perfect photos), winter camping in the US in primitive shelters and everything in between. I am known for being hard on gear both in usage and expectations. let me test some out
littlewhaleart@yahoo.com
Posted: Apr 27, 2011 Doug
I would sure like to test gear for free as well; I mean, who wouldn't? I'm a collage edumacated individual :-) , can't I test the stuff? It would sure save me a ton on all the stuff I buy for camping now! My wife and I camp as often as we can, normally backwoods with as few people around as possible. On couple commented, as we floated down the Manistee river holding onto a makeshift raft after a grueling hike up the north country trail, "This is normal, right?"
Posted: Mar 25, 2011 Dan Rice
Would like to test Gear. I have hiked in the coast mountians in the Yukon and Alaska, and white water canoed the Hyland river. National Outdoor Leadership School Alumni! You can read more of what I have tested @ toughcampgear.blogspot.com
You can email me at dylanherd92@dishmail.net
Posted: Mar 08, 2011 D Herd
Would like to test your gear . I Ike and trek in Southwest US.
Also deserts around the world treks.
Will honestly test your product. It will get a work out.
J Ginal
joannginal@yahoo.com
Posted: Feb 25, 2011 Joann ginal
Mike Kloser here I’m trying to get in touch with Jon regarding the OutThere! AS-1 packs that he and his team used for the Abu Dhabi Adventure Race. I wanted to see if he might be able to schedule a gear review on my pack? I don’t have his email and would love to get in touch with him so I don’t miss any deadlines for something like this.
Kind regards,
Mike
Posted: Jan 26, 2011 MikeKloser@Gmail.com
hey i was wondering how to go about getting gear to reviewing i have a youtube channel if u could write me back that would be great thanks alot nikk email is low_rider13@hotmail.com
Posted: Dec 30, 2010 nikk
Was woundering if you had any gear I could test in florida????
Thanks form the sunshine state
Posted: Aug 22, 2010 Joe Casteel
We are a company in UK manifucturing and selling water filter purifier for travellers and outdoor activities. We are interested in having a review of our products. How i a can contact you?
Posted: Jun 01, 2010 George
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