The Backpacker Editors

Go light on your feet with the Adidas Cloudcap XCR and Garmont Nasty.

A reliable and moderately priced unit with high-end capabilities

Get a mobile phone, data organizer, walkie-talkie, and GPS, all in one device.

If cost is no object, this unit is like having an interactive topo map at your fingertips.

Get killer ankle and underfoot support in an ultralight hiking boot.

Testing confirms it: You can get a real rain jacket for less than 8 ounces.

Just throw this unit in the car and go

You'll never lose your partner if you're each carrying a Rino.

A favorite unit for beginners

This rugged unit will let you call home from the trail

For just over 3 ounces, you get a smart, powerhouse light with all the functions you'll ever need.

A cookset that will be your new ultralight favorite

5 ways to get rid of unneeded pounds without buying a new pack

A water bottle that doubles as an emergency lantern.

Pick up the pace with these lightweight trekking poles.

This low-cut's shallow tread grips well through it all

Our tester praises the 'rip-proof, poke-proof, and amazingly waterproof' fabric of the Traverse

Holds a week's worth of three-season supplies--or just enough for a light summit day

Proven extra-tough after 30 straight days of hiking

Capture every backcountry moment with this wafer-slim digital camera

Don't fight over where the trailhead starts. Get this handy gadget and you'll find it every time.

Keep from tripping over your partner with this tent made for two

How to get the most out of your trekking poles

Socks so darn perfect they can make a thief out of your dearest friend

Comfortable, water-resistant fabric earns points lost from this jacket's boxy fit

An ultralight backpack that does it all

Want to impress friends and family? Strap this baby to your pack.

A light pack cover that kept contents dry in rain from New Zealand to the Pacific Northwest

Our field testers praise PreCip for its strength and breathability

Don't let your kid board the bus underdressed this winter

A bargain pack with enough room for winter gear, a week's worth of food, camera supplies, and more--as long as it's all under 45 pounds

Three tents that'll save you money, weight, your friendship, and your head

What to do when your soles come undone.

Budget shopper or big spender? We have the perfect three-season layering system for you.

Catch the hot spot before it's too late

An affordable two-person tent that holds up in any weather, spring through fall

A bargain base layer designed to maximize wicking and enhance layering

A daypack and waterproof stuff sack in one

A hiking boot that provides outstanding protection against rocks, cactus, snow, and rain

Enough support and comfort to carry a big load for 56 miles in four days--that is, if you're up to it

A little extra money buys a lot of extra wear with Arc'Teryx's latest T

Sunglasses built so strong they'd knock out ZZ Top--despite the price.

Prevent blisters, hike grit-free, and find arch support in a lightweight boot

Repair a busted backpack with this simple sewing technique

If solitude is your thing, dish out the extra green for this spacious, sturdy solo tent.

Multi-use cookware fit for gear geeks, geniuses, or anyone willing to sacrifice soup for space.

A special pocket makes hydration easier for backpackers carrying this midsize.

Don't throw big-ticket boots in the bin when a quick makeover will do the trick.

This sack earns high marks as an affordable, versatile summer bag.

This upgrade suits the fastpacker's need for a roomy, bugproof tent during hot and humid nights.

Keep your wallet and load a little lighter with Outdoor Research, Marmot, and Integral Designs

Prevent embarassing, water-wasting splashes by replacing your water bottle's lid with the Gription.

The Harry Potter hat for AT hikers: a bandanna that doubles as the key to the trail.

Learn your camera's capabilities by doing, not reading.

At first glance, digital cameras can be intimidating. Use this guide to take the guesswork out of the features on your camera.