Gear

What kind of scrambler would pass up a shoe with soles described as Spider-Man-like? C'mon!

Don't underestimate the power of this model's plus sign -- the new and improved shoe almost offers too much to use the same name.

The Terrastryder-Mid triumphs in the "Best Fit" category for the hard-to-fit group -- just beware of its sogginess factor.

This scrambler provides everything you need to go anywhere you want: support, grip, comfort, and waterproofing.

Mesh-covered vents take these strong midcuts into the future of fastpacking shoes.

If you wake up wanting to walk 1,000 miles, go out and purchase a pair of these first.

Despite its name, Garmont's lighter boot provides excellent support, but a bit too much for fastpackers and trail runners.

Testers give the Jannu two thumbs up, despite wanting more space

Stay sweat-free in all conditions with this lightweight shell

Carry less, enjoy the cold months more with the latest four-season tents, gloves, hats, and gaiters.

Two experts debate whether a (very) sophisticated Swiss Army is worth the weight.

A knife expert's guide to blade selection and safety.

Way warm for the weight

Give that old tent a new waterproof coating without shelling out big bucks.

You'll find this bag to be the most comfortable for mild weather.

Great fit, but lacking loft

Don't tell us money can't buy happiness.

Call this sack a rebel--a synthetic bag that weighs less and stuffs small.

Easy to pack and easy to vent

We went to outdoor educators and gear retailers to uncover the most common questions asked about staying dry in the backcountry. Here are the top 6.

How to keep your gear--and yourself--dry on your next backpacking adventure.

How do you know that your gear is crying out for help? Consult our handy list of signs and solutions.

A complete guide to buying gear that will keep you dry--no matter what

You don't have to be a direct Mayflower descendant to appreciate a little Yankee thrift with this rain shell

Look chic when you head for the alpine life.

Racing a storm to a peak is no time to whip out an inferior rain shell.

This super-compact and affordable shell is perfect for the Southwest

You won't miss a thing with this piece of raingear.

You think thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail is a long walk?

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

One of the lightest shoes in the test scores big with trail runners.

Ready, set, go. You'll literally run down the trail with these featherweight kicks.

No toes will be lost in these mountaineering boots.

Not a speed demon? These traditionalists are great for light hiking.

Ventilation and traction are a nice combo, but stability doesn't match the best.

Even big guys with wide feet will feel agile with these supportive 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 the lowdown on what your socks are made of.

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

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

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

This bargain bag could turn car campers into ultralight zealots.

These shoes can handle any terrain.

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

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!

Boreal gives us a boot that provides stability and waterproofing.

Become geckolike the minute you slide into these shoes.

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.

Want a midweight that can tread in heavyweight terrain?

A top all-purpose midweight boot

A long lasting, hard working boot

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

The cork-bed of your sandals in a boot.

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

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

The comfortably roomy cut pleased all testers.

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.

3 waterproof secrets from veteran mountaineer Pete Takeda

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.

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.