Gear Reviews

Even big guys with wide feet will feel agile with these supportive shoes.

Pillows underfoot might be softer, but they won't last like these cushy shoes.

Let others wilt in the heat; your feet are air-cooled by these ventilated runners.

Stop lugging extra water weight. This pack comes with downspouts.

Get more mileage from your stockings, on the trail and in the wash

Get the lowdown on what your socks are made of.

This is one of the lightest three-season sleep systems we've seen

This bargain bag could turn car campers into ultralight zealots.

New tools for water navigation: Strap one to your thwart, and you'll never paddle in circles again.

These shoes can handle any terrain.

Learn this mapping technique for better off-trail travel.

What's GPS, how does it work and will it help you? Find answers to these questions and more!

Don't let your GPS unit stump you. Try one of these suggestions to get your unit trail ready.

A well valued boot, great of every level of hiking.

They're not fancy, but they do the job.

Light and supportive all in the same package

A boot that actually improves your agility

These aren't Elvis' blue suede shoes.

Not the best for long days and heavy loads, but great for fastpacking.

Want a midweight that can tread in heavyweight terrain?

While these shoes aren't for running they are great on the trail or on the town.

If a short trip is your plan, grab these boots and go.

Become geckolike the minute you slide into these shoes.

A long lasting, hard working boot

Snow-covered trails are no match for this shoe

The cork-bed of your sandals in a boot.

Boreal gives us a boot that provides stability and waterproofing.

Boots ideal for summer fast-packing

Given an Editors' Choice Award in 2001, this boot continues to be a great value.

New technologies make this pair of boots a standout.

You won't find a better all-purpose lightweight boot.

Whether you're on rocks or a grassy trail, you're sure to love these boots.

A top all-purpose midweight boot

Hike on the trail then run on the road with these versatile shoes.

The comfortably roomy cut pleased all testers.

This compact bag might leave you dodging cold spots during cold nights.

3 waterproof secrets from veteran mountaineer Pete Takeda

They kill swiftly and silently. They flit like ghosts through enemy forests. And they will brew you a fine cup of cowboy coffee. Meet America's deadliest hikers as we hump ruck with the Special Forces.

No frame, no pain--if you try these simple backpack solutions.

Sometimes gaining balance is as simple as adjusting the load in your pack.

How to acquire your very own Navy SEAL Protective Combat Uniform.

Determine direction without your compass.

Who would have thought a piece of golf equipment could be really useful to backpackers?

Liven up your purified water.

Check out BACKPACKER Editors's author page.

Receding water levels mean more miles of choice desert hiking and kayaking.

Paddle blue inlets too new for any topo.

Make your sleeping bag smell laundry fresh.

The beauty of this hike comes alive with the rain.

Here's the best way to make a lightweight and inexpensive camping mattress.

10 surprising uses for your water bottle.

Spring is for the birds. Here's where to find a flock near you.

Try these easy cleaning tricks to keep using your hiking poles out on the trail longer.

A do-it-yourself guide for sewing space-age hats and other performance outdoor gear.

Waterproof boots can make the difference between a sick hike and a miserable slog.

Keep your flashlights and headlamps alive longer with these trail tips.

Winter warmth is easy with these tips from arctic explorers, cold-weather experts, and army docs.

10 essentials for long day adventures

The best ultralight cookers built by BACKPACKER readers.

Nine features that can turn a small sack into your favorite backpack.

Visitors to Siberia's Lake Baikal encounter endless coastline, brown bears, and exotic hiking to last a lifetime.

Endless varieties of coral and birds await when you kayak the blue waters of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.

Now here's scientific proof that trekking poles are a hiker's best friend.

Tackle your tent pole problems with this quick tip.

Tarp tips for the tactical hiker.

To stay dry in a downpour, carry the right wet-weather gear and know how to use it.

Lengthen your boots' life span by following this simple maintenance plan.

Using your GPS is easier than you think.

Common GPS terms you should know.

Quick tips to set your tent with the right rainfly.

Going sleeveless might save you weight, but will a vest keep you as warm as a jacket?

On your next outing, be sure to heed these 10 tips for sleeping like a log.

Take your hike into the river with these paddling, kayaking and boating tips.

For a different wilderness experience, try floating down the river in a kayak or canoe.

Trouble sleeping in camp? Try our tips for a good night's rest.

How and where you should set up your winter tent for maximum comfort and shelter longevity.

What's the best way to treat bug bites? Don't get bit in the first place.

Paddle Wisconsin's Turtle-Flambeau waterway, watch the aerial show, and lay claim to your own island.

High above the trees you'll find the hike of your dreams: a ridgeline trail where your only companion is an occasional mountain goat.