gear

BACKPACKER's Deputy Editor Casey Lyons explains best practices for packing your backpack.

Backpacker just got back from a week-long gear testing trip in Colombia. Get a glimpse at what we did while we were there.

This jacket never wets out. Period.

Say goodbye to the gap with the best couples' sleeping pad for backpackers.

Say goodbye to the gap with the best couples' sleeping pad for backpackers.

This pack tames the biggest loads.

Class up your camp toasts.

These tough trousers go everywhere.

Foodies will dig this flavorful dish.

Serious about backpacking and photography? You'll love this camera-ready pack.

This could be the last water filter you'll ever buy.

It's the best-fitting helmet ever.

Resort or backcountry gear? With the KINGPIN ski binding, you don't have to choose.

Rain, sleet, snow? If you need a fire in the worst conditions, these are your matches.

Save big on a full-featured ski pack.

Breathable insulation makes these the most versatile winter pants we've tested.

The Zeta LT sets a new bar for shells.

When you hear the call to get out and go, the Granite Gear Crown VC60 is the ultralight performance pack for you.

LEKI Micro Vario Carbon poles feature a push-button release mechanism for quick assembly and disassembly.

This stove system packs tiny and does it all: lightning-fast boils, quiet simmers, and everything in between.

This stove system packs tiny and does it all: lightning-fast boils, quiet simmers, and everything in between.

Better pick a color you like, because you’ll never want to take this jacket off.

Behold the world’s most packable cook pot.

Behold the world’s most packable cook pot.

Don't go boot shopping just because of a worn-out heel. Repair a hiking boot fast with this at-home fix.

Don't go boot shopping just because of a worn-out heel. Repair a hiking boot fast with this at-home fix.

Learn how to keep your pack and gear dry.

This versatile hybrid features to-the-toe lacing, a softshell tongue, and thick suede leather.

"The best pants I've worn in two decades," says our tester. Here's why.

Sorry trail mix, our snack bag is full.

Innovative sewing techniques deliver a whole new level of ultralight comfort.

See why we love this do-anything shell.

"This is the best-fitting pack I’ve ever used," said our tester after hauling it on a bevy of summer trips.

A highly wicking baselayer from Polarmax.

Gear Editor Kristin Hostetter with Patagonia's breathable and packable Troposphere hard shell jacket

Executive Editor Dennis Lewon reviews The North Face's Enzo Shell Pants