Best Hiking Boots of 2021
Nobody knows hiking boots like Backpacker. We sent testers around the world with the latest boots and shoes to see how they perform in varied conditions. These 10 rose to the top.
Spring Gear Guide 2021
Spring Gear Guide 2021
The weather is getting warmer, the snow is melting, and the mud is drying: It’s high time to hit the trail. From ultralight tents to rainproof shells to fleet-footed trail runners, these new products rose to the top after months of testing. Grab your favorites and get out there.
The weather is getting warmer, the snow is melting, and the mud is drying: It’s high time to hit the trail. From ultralight tents to rainproof shells to fleet-footed trail runners, these new products rose to the top after months of testing. Grab your favorites and get out there.
The Best Women’s Hiking Apparel of 2021
Stay comfier and feel better with these trail-ready pieces.
The Best Men’s Hiking Clothes of 2021
Pick the right layers for the trail and you won't just look better: You'll feel better and hike better too.
The 4 Best Sunglasses of 2021
Enjoy the sunshine with these shades.
The 5 Best Socks of 2021
Winter weather is no match for these warm and cozy pairs.
The Best Backpacking Electronics of 2021
This year's top gadgets are designed to keep you safe and comfortable on the trail while staying out of your way.
The 4 Best Headlamps and Lights of 2021
Light up your hike with these smart picks, from an ultralight headlamp to an upgraded set of string lights.
The Best Family Camping Gear of 2021
Make your next trip fun for the whole family with these five smart picks.
The Best Backpacking Food of 2021
Chow down and drink up with our favorite trail-ready meals and snacks of the year.
The 11 Best Hiking Shells of 2021
Rain, sleet, snow, wind: These are our favorite shells of the season for any weather.
The 3 Best Sleeping Pads of 2021
You deserve to relax. Snooze better than ever before with our favorite sleeping pads of the year
The 8 Best Sleeping Bags of 2021
From super-light, super-packable sacks to comfort-first frontcountry beds, these are our favorite sleeping bags of the season.
The 13 Best Hiking Backpacks of 2021
Our testers found load haulers for every trip and hiker. Pick your favorite and start making your packing list.
The 9 Best Tents of 2021 for Backpacking
Find the perfect shelter to match the perfect spot.
Editors’ Choice: This is Our Favorite Backpacking Gear of 2021
A comfy camp chair, a tricked-out tent, one of the best free apps we've ever used, and more: this is the best gear of the season.
The Best Water Filters, Purifiers, and Bottles of 2021 for Hikers
Stay hydrated—and stay healthy—with these three innovative products, from a lightweight insulated bottle to a cap with a UV light built into it.