Editors' Choice Gold 2014: Leatherman Juice S2

Multitools are great for backpackers… in theory. In reality, many are bulky and heavy, and you end up packing a lot of useless features. Enter the Juice S2, which is the lightest and smallest fully featured multitool we’ve ever found. “This tool has been with me on every single trip in the last five years,” says our gear editor, who is a fix-it geek (and author of The Complete Guide to Outdoor Gear Maintenance & Repair*). “I’ve repaired stoves, skis, trekking poles, tents, jackets, pads, packs, bags, cook pots, and more with the S2.” 

Because it’s only 3.25 inches long when folded and just over 4 ounces, you can easily carry it in your pants pocket. “That’s a good thing,” says our gear editor, “because I use it so often I don’t want it buried in my pack. And I’m not into dorky belt holsters.” As for durability? Leatherman guarantees it for 25 years. $60; 4.4 oz.; leatherman.com