Hate Hiking in Hot Weather? Wear Linen.
It might not be a “technical fabric,” but linen is the best choice for scorching, dry climates.
Finding the perfect hiking apparel can be tricky. But with the help of Backpacker Magazine’s dedicated team of expert gear reviewers, you’ll easily find the perfect men’s and women’s outdoor apparel for every hiking and backpacking trip on your bucket list.
Thirteen testers hiked, scrambled, and power-napped to find the very best pants and shorts for hiking and backpacking.
It might not be a “technical fabric,” but linen is the best choice for scorching, dry climates.
The Outdoor Research Shadow Wind Hoodie finds a sweet spot between weather resistance, comfort, and light weight.
The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Hooded Jacket is about a half-pound and packs to the size of a water bottle, but feels warmer than that.
37 testers put 52 hardshells to the test this year. These are their favorites.
45 jackets hit the trail. Only eight made it to the winners’ circle.
This basic piece of gear can make or break your hiking experience.
These tried-and-true picks can survive a thru-hike without breaking the bank.
The UK-based brand takes a novel approach to keeping dry.
From Alpha to Octa, we compare four of the best featherweight fleeces.
Some newfangled hiking pants feature an extended zipper that allows users to squat and pee without undressing. While some hikers love them, others are set in their urination ways.
Gore-Tex is going PFAS-free. Does its waterproof tech still perform?
We tried out the ridiculously lightweight Deploy Down Hoody to see how it holds up in the real world.
A stuff sack full of clothes is often the last obstacle holding back new ultralighters.
The cottage industry is brimming with new products using the latest tech fleece.
Everything you ever wanted to know about sun protection, from UPF ratings to color choices.
Mountain Equipment’s Katam handles a downpour better than any six ounce layer we’ve ever met.
Here’s why we still reach for the Outdoor Research Foray II hike after hike.
When the days are long and the sun is high, these trail-worthy layers protect your skin so you can focus on the adventure ahead
Nine testers donned dozens of tops to find the best shirts, midlayers, and wind shells for hiking.
Eight testers ran, trekked, and squatted in dozens of products to find the best bottoms for hiking.
Nine testers donned 32 shirts, jackets, and hoodies for hiking. These five came out on top.
Cold-weather apparel picks for the active person in your life who loves spending time in nature, no matter the temperature
We tested dozens of baselayers to help you choose the best one for your winter adventures
What you put closest to your skin and make or break your day on the mountain. Don’t mess this one up.
We picked the nine best new fleeces, puffies, and heavyweight layers to block out the cold this season.
Like the lunch meat in your sandwich, your midlayer should suit your personal taste and complement the conditions
Not just any pants will do when you're braving the elements in the backcountry. These live up to the challenge.
Ski touring and high-output activities in the backcountry require a different kind of armor. Suit up with our favorite picks of the season.
Every hiker needs a reliable, trail-ready button-up. From cozy fleeces to high-tech sun shirts, these are five of our reviewer's favorites.
Changing environmental standards have upended the industry.
Twelve testers donned 36 tops to find this summer’s best new shirts, midlayers, and baselayers.
Twelve testers ran, trekked, and squatted in 45 products to find this summer’s best new hiking pants and shorts.
Just as cozy with remarkable technology? Consider me a convert.
Get ready for your best winter ever with tips from these cold-weather experts
Stay warm, stay hydrated, and explore the season’s top national parks
Dial in your setup for cold-weather adventures with advice from polar explorers
Our testers weathered alpine gusts, freak downpours, and rough granite slabs to find the very best softshells. Eight jackets rose to the top.
Heading into the wilderness with your hiker-in-training? This gear will make the trip as fun for you as it is for your little one.
Upgrade to these versatile trip staples
Fend off water and wind with these breathable, packable jackets
This featherlight racerback doesn’t sacrifice support
There’s a lot more to these bottoms than meets the eye
Don’t be afraid to sweat it out in these running pieces
Rigorous testing was no match for these pieces
Rigorous testing was no match for these pieces
We adore these easy breezy on-the-road pieces
A cycling outfit that everyone will love
A cycling outfit that everyone will love
The best comfort and performance for all levels of activity
Focus on your session—not your clothes
Technical layers for any occasion
Blisters are history with this snug, no-slip pair
A cool kit for eager little adventurers
Don’t be afraid to sweat it out in these running pieces
Focus on your session—not your clothes
Technical layers for any occasion
These jackets will keep you dry and focused on your winter adventures.
Because it’s dumb to be cold
The Kuiu Kenai Pant isn’t your typical featherweight puffy.
It’s made of 100 percent recycled material, too.
Check out BACKPACKER Editors and Contributors's author page.
The Keen Newport Shoe is durable and versatile.
Upgrade your trail running wardrobe next spring.
The Stretchdown Light Pullover is warm, flexible, and stowable.
The Patagonia Triolet jacket is a water-shrugging beast.
The positive impact of Polartec’s textile and fabric innovations—from the invention of fleece to technologies for all conditions—cannot be overstated
Finally, skin-tight shorts that are actually breathable, don't chafe, and have legit storage options.
The Headsweats TruckAir offers breezy protection in a comfortable package.
The Ibex Journey offers impressive thermoregulation, even on hot days.
There are always tradeoffs when you're picking a hardshell—but the Fjällräven High Coast Hydratic Jacket masters more conditions than most.
Get ready for cooler hikes with a deal on one of our favorite puffies.
Stoko’s K1 is a revolutionary way to support your knees without the bulk of a traditional knee brace
This pair from Fjällräven won't fall apart even under harsh trail conditions.
Stay comfier and feel better with these trail-ready pieces.
This breathable baselayer is designed for performance in every season.
The best UV-busting hoody of 2021.
The best town-to-trail shirt of 2021.
Check out Amelia Arvesen's author page.
The most versatile pants of 2021.