It's not just waves, eddies, and rodeo rolls for pro kayaker Brad Ludden. The 27-year-old has parlayed his success into helping others with his cancer foundation, First Descents. We caught up with Ludden for the lowdown on the foundation and what's next on his extreme life list.
A quick survey of the missing, the found, and the lucky
On your next trek, forget the compass—there's an app for that
As a filmmaker, the best rock climbers, kayakers, mountaineers and cavers can be your mentors. Pay attention. You'll make better movies.
No, were not talking about those colorful rubber shoes—we’re talking 11-foot reptiles
The team fights off altitude sickness and infection on their last day before arriving at Everest Base Camp
Six-mile stretch of Appalachian Trail closed due to clever and hungry bear
Les Stroud's 'Survive This' takes kids into the wilderness and tasks them with finding their inner 'Survivorman'
Is it safe to wear DEET in summer when bears are around? I've heard the bear will come after you because it smells.
Viruses may be the next source of juice in your AA, AAA and laptop batteries
Under fresh snow at 16,200 feet, Peter Whittaker and the First Ascents team scramble to arrange for their gear arrival
A look at backpacking history through the archived issues of our magazine
Our top ultralight tarp ensures versatility with no weight.
This tarp is best for groups of campers.
Our best all-around 3-person tent combines the best of space, weight, and weatherproofing.
This top ultralight stood up to fierce winds in Alaska, and is a snap to set up.
This light, large, and affordable tent will appeal to almost any three-season camper.
Roomy, rugged, and light-as-a-feather--that's why the Fly Creek is this year's pick for best all-around solo tent.
This is one of the lightest, toughest four-season tent on the market.
Want to get a winter tent without breaking the bank? The Cirque is the tent for you.
This winter tent is long, lean, and livable.
Black Diamond's Stormtrack will keep even giants warm in the mountains.
Adequate space, bomber construction, and light weight make the String Ridge our pick for this year's best mountaineering tent.
The Minibus is just like its namesake: Roomy, big, and heavy.
Space and price align in the Zeta 3.
If you're taller than tall, the Marmot Crib could be for you.
The Ajanta feels bigger than you'd ever expect, and comes at a sweet price
Not even the strongest winds can faze the roomy Black Diamond Oasis.
Rain making your fly droop? Adjust your tent from the inside with this pricey tent.
This extra-large tent dwarfs all other "big-guy" tents.
Tarptent's innovative tent creates an ultralight solution for big campers.
The Hoodoo isn't exactly ultralight, but it provides plush quarters for a great price.
This eco-friendly single-wall tent doesn't skimp on quality features.
Want double walls but low weight? Try the Carbon Reflex 2.
The Taurine tackles both light-and-fast summer jaunts and heavy winter expeditions.
This all-conditions champ can handle any weather in any season.
This tent matches ultralight values with tough design.
Check out Kelly Bastone's author page.
The lightest solo tent tested is also--surprise--the biggest.
The Nemo Gogo works great for tall hikers--provided you don't mind not sitting up.
This huge, livable solo tent is also a killer deal.
Perfect for stargazers, the MontBell Crescent offers 180-degree views of the night sky.
This high-and-wide tent is meant for one, but can fit two, provided they're under six feet tall.
This Gore-Tex hiking boot has only improved since we named it Editors' Choice last year.
Expect heavy-duty performance in this lightweight hiking boot by La Sportiva.
The Outdry treatment and ultralight weight mean this hiking shoe will go wherever you do.
Get a grip—the soles of these boots stick to any surface.
These boots are tough on terrain but nice and comfortable on feet.
Heavy loads and dangerous terrain are no obstacle for these waterproof mountaineering boots.
The North Face packs extreme waterproofing and long distance comfort into this bargain boot.
This boot is the perfect fit from the first lace-up to the top of the tallest, wettest mountain.
For tough hikes with heavy loads and varying terrain, choose this waterproof and super supportive boot.
Brave cold, wet weather with LOWA's sturdy, Gore-Tex winter boot.
Don't let the tough and sturdy exterior fool you—inside this boot is pure, luxurious comfort.
Tackle the soggiest, wettest, and coldest terrain with this solid traction boot.
For all-around performance, check out this ultralight and super comfortable boot.
Submerge these comfortable waterproof boots in snow and your toes will never know the difference.
For extreme waterproofing at a good price, you can't beat these insulated, high cut boots.
Scramble, bushwhack, and ascend with this all-around solid boot.
This updated Editors' Choice winner stays true to its roots—but now it's a lighter and more breathable boot.
You won't find a boot more supportive or breathable with this low of a price tag.
For lightweight versatility, lace up this low-cut and supportive shoe.
Hit the trail with this waterproof and ultralight boot from Teva.
Use and abuse this tough, low-cut, and lightweight boot by Patagonia.
The supportive midsole, tough build, and bargain price of the Teton proves looks can be deceiving.
Run and hike through any terrain thanks to the sticky outsole of this shoe.
This boot combines lightweight, sneaker-like comfort with solid support.
Testers loved everything about this women's specific shoe, especially the arch support and breathability.
These trail runners are the perfect mix of waterproof and breathable.
New ion mask technology is great for breathability in this lightweight midcut boot.
Take a bite out of dirt and snow with the tough soles on this midcut boot.
If you want the perfect pair of trail runners, look no further than the Gel-Trabuco's.
This low-cut, waterproof shoe is a bargain and perfect for dayhikes and light overnights.
Jamaican-size ice sheet breaks off; Clinton calls for greater polar protection
If you want super breathability and an awesome warmth-to-weight ratio this Feathered Friends bag is for you.
Great bag all around that also costs less than most competitors.
Add this sleeve for added comfort.
This lightweight summer bag is great for big guys or active sleepers.
Turn your sleeping pad into a comfy camp chair.
You won't roll off of this foam, self-inflating pad.