2012

A behind-the-scenes look at shooting the 2012 Survival Cover with photographer Bud Force.

Gear Editor Kristin Hostetter explains the new innovations in down insulation technology. See what our team thought of these two water-resistant down jackets.

Staff Photographer Ben Fullerton reviews the lightweight Snow Junkie boots from Vasque

Gear Editor Kristin Hostetter reviews the ski-specific, multi-day Ymir 55 pack from Sierra Designs

Andrew Bydlon reviews Sierra Designs' TOV Jacket which utilizes the innovative DryDown technology

Contributing Editor Tracy Ross shows off the remarkably light Scarpa Alien

Staff Photographer Ben Fullerton shows off La Sportiva's bullet-proof Storm Fighter pants

Gear Editor Kristin Hostetter shows the versatile and collapsible Vario 4 poles from Komperdell

Executive Editor Dennis Lewon with First Ascent's Katabatic Tent

Gear Editor Kristin Hostetter demonstrates First Ascent's thermal down jacket in action

Staff Photographer Ben Fullerton raves about Cabela's Thermal Zone Baselayers.

Our yurt-dwelling test team shares the goodness of Bear Creek Country Soup Mixes

Editor-in-Chief Dennis Lewon reviews Black Diamond's killer Carbon Megawatt Skis

A cozy bag for two

Beat the backcountry blahs with this aromatic curry dish Beat the backcountry blahs with this aromatic curry dish.

An ultralight tent for two that's under two hundred bucks.

A headlamp that doubles as a hanging lantern A headlamp that doubles as a hanging lantern.

An ingenious water filtration system - no pumping required.

A multifuel stove that burns liquid gas and canister fuel with ease.

The ultimate in lightweight traction The ultimate in lightweight traction.

Our zip-off pant hater has become a believer with these stylish convertibles.

Upgrade your car camping menu with this pioneer pot.

Running-shoe comfort with hiking-boot stability.

The BACKPACKER editors head to the ultimate gear testing ground: Chile's 3,600-meter Volcano San Pedro

Two ultralight, ultracomfortable backpacks - one with a top lid and one without.

Send and receive messages from the backcountry