Gear

The ultimate boot for the long approaches and class 3+ scrambles.

An alpine tent that's light, compact, and brawny enough for storms.

Boost comfort and convenience–and your zzzz’s–with these three sleeping accessories.

A sleeping pad that's light enough for summer yet warm enough for winter.

A $90 starter sleeping bag.

A lofty, hoodless, semi-rectangular down bag.

A synthetic sleeping bag with warm, generous cut.

A synthetic bag with a Omni-Heat liner.

A pricey, but super light, sleeping bag

Check out Will Rochfort's author page.

Upgrade your bed: No matter what your budget or performance preferences, our testers found the perfect bag for all your spring-through-fall trips

From GPS data to navigation apps and printed maps, we have you covered and can get you ready for your next adventure.

High summer is no time to go without shades. These models will protect your eyes no matter where your adventures take you.

Frontcountry looks meet backcountry performance with these shades.

With vented wrap-around sidewalls, dark lenses (5 percent VLT), and a face-hugging frame, the Tensing provided high-altitude sun protection rivaling heavier, spendier mountaineering models.

Full-coverage lenses without the huge frames.

These sunglasses will stay in place and won't mist up, even during your most difficult hikes and climbs.

A lightweight trail runner that hits a sweet spot of precision, comfort, and protection.

A trekking pole that's easy to adjust on the fly.

A 10-piece multitool that weighs only 2.3 oz.

A backpack made for ultralighters who travel in wet climates

Upgrade your footwear: We found seven models that can take you from dayhikes to thru-hikes, and from desert to rainforest to peaks.

These after-market insoles control motion, fill excess volume, and more.

Comfortable, sneaker-like feel with a roomy toebox.

Flexible support and instant comfort; great for trips with lighter loads.

This supple leather boot has top-notch shock absorption and nearly an inch of arch support.

Running-shoe-like comfort, fit, and breathability.

For hikers in blazing climates who need well-ventilated, waterproof protection and all-terrain traction.

Testers prized these all-leather boots for their tenacious traction, superior comfort, and midsole support.

Named the best all-around boot by testers because of its unusually strong combination of protection, support, and nimbleness.

Get performance summer apparel for less.

Stay comfortable in summer and beyond with these lightweight, high-performance pieces.

Skip the new wrench sets and the flowery ties. Give the man on your list something that he’ll really be stoked about. We’ve got a slew of great dad-tested gift ideas starting at $20

What’s better than having an iPad? Not having to worry about what’ll happen to it when it gets into little hands.

Protect your valuables on your next paddling trip with this iPhone case.

Find lightweight shelter for every budget and weather scenario.

Find lightweight shelter for every budget and weather scenario.

Find lightweight shelter for every budget and weather scenario.

These four-person tents offer outstanding space-to-weight ratios and high performances in foul-weather.

Sleep comfortably on your next adventure with one of these great sleeping pads.

These bags are ideal for summer backpacking trips, each offering lightweight comfort for warmer temps.

7 new bags perfect for your spring-time adventures.

Ready to endure all the elements, these bags offering warmth and protection for winter camping.

These three key pieces will keep you comfortable on the trail.

A perfect balance between traditional and barefoot running shoes.

A barefoot runner made for trails.

Trail runners that are ultracushioned...and unique to look at.

A trail runner that's light but stable

An in-depth guide to the technology, top products, and latest skills, plus how to get in shape faster to see more trail.

Don't go shopping until you've read these comprehensive guides to buying and fitting the right pack, boots, bag, and tent.

First: Buy the right boots. Second: Keep them in tip top shape with these tips.

Finding a great fitting backpack is the key to happy backpacking. Plus, learn how to keep your pack looking and feeling like new.

Tips on buying the right tent for your backpacking style. Plus, cleaning and repair advice.

Mummy or semi-rectangular? Sleeves vs. clips? Choose the right sleeping bag and keep it in top shape with these tips.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.

The unusually deep heel pocket in these socks contours to feet perfectly, and doesn't bunch.

This tee is naturally breathable, resists odor, and feels as soft as cotton.

Stretchy poly fabric and and a gusseted crotch provide killer freedom of movement in these comfortable shorts.

Stay comfortable in summer and beyond with these lightweight, high-performance pieces.

A perfect lightweight hiker for people with a wide forefoot

Cut weight and boost comfort with the best new ounce-shaving load haulers—tested and rated by tough-on-gear Grand Canyon National Park rangers.

A do-it-all hardshell for wilderness warriors who want four-season versatility in a light, packable, and impeccably cut package.

A single-wall tent is roomy enough for three adults

Thin softshell gloves with Gore Windstopper

A featherweight, 800-fill puffy

A versatile pack that can be pared down or bulked up depending on your load and the terrain.

The lightest ultralight pack we tested.

A roomy and comfortable ultralight bag.

An "ultralight" pack that can handle up to 40 pounds.

A top performing pack that's only $160.

From a smart-and-light pack to a groundbreaking backcountry communicator, here are the 12 products that passed the ultimate gear challenge.