Gear

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

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

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

Light and supportive all in the same package

These aren't Elvis' blue suede shoes.

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

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

Snow-covered trails are no match for this shoe

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

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

Boots ideal for summer fast-packing

A boot that actually improves your agility

New technologies make this pair of boots a standout.

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

The comfortably roomy cut pleased all testers.

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.

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

Paddle blue inlets too new for any topo.

Liven up your purified water.

The beauty of this hike comes alive with the rain.

Make your sleeping bag smell laundry fresh.

Determine direction without your compass.

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

Check out Backpacker Editors's author page.

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

10 surprising uses for your water bottle.

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.

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

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.

10 essentials for long day adventures

The best ultralight cookers built by BACKPACKER readers.

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.

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

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

Tackle your tent pole problems with this quick tip.

Quick tips to set your tent with the right rainfly.

Using your GPS is easier than you think.

Tarp tips for the tactical hiker.

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

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

Common GPS terms you should know.

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

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

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.

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.

Consider these points when deciding if an approach shoe is right for you.

Protect your tent from rain by building a rain dam.

You can experience heavenly hiking even if you lose your boot sole.

Hard-won tips for pitching tepee tents on any terrain

Add some ribbons to your sleeper to speed drying.

Tent pole problems? Here's an easy fix.

Rubber boots are essential gear in the tundra.

Half of your "good sleep" equation is a comfy pad (the other half is your bag). Look for these 10 essentials when you buy.

There are different boots for different types of terrain. Follow these 10 essentials to match sole to trail.

Not all shelters are created equal, as anyone with a cheap tent will tell you after a bad storm. Follow these 10 essentials when buying your next tent.

Before you get a new boot, make sure the shoe fits with our sizing chart.

Follow these 10 essentials to pick the right trekking poles.

Pick your backpack before your hike with our sizing guide.

Buying a European backpack? Use our conversion chart before you buy.

It's simple: Unless you like getting sick, treat all of your water. Follow these 10 essentials to find and maintain the right filter.

There's no single piece of equipment more crucial to your backwoods enjoyment. Here's how to make the right choice.

Inventor finds a way to harness all that energy you burn on switchbacks and long trails.

Keep your sleeping bag up to fluff with proper care and handling.

In Florida's Big Cypress National Preserve, you'll walk on water -- almost.

QuickTip: How to stake tents on hard ground.

Quick Tip: Preserving tent poles

17 tips for better compression

How to make sure you stay upright on your poles.