OutdoorGearLab
Independent spray-distance and discharge-time testing.
Read at outdoorgearlab.com →Field Notes
Bear Spray
We haven't field-tested bear spray on the BFB beat yet, and I won't fake it. Here's what we're working on, who we trust until our reviews land, and what's worth reading from the rest of the site in the meantime.
By Brooke Wilder · Editor
Where we read for bear spray
Three resources we trust
Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee
The authority on how and when to actually use bear spray.
Read at igbconline.org →Backpacker
Context on bear-country travel and current product picks.
Read at backpacker.com →What we do have
Gear I've reviewed
- Sun Hoodies Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie Review: UPF 15 Sun Protection at 5.29 Ounces
- Backpacks Osprey Aether 65 Review: 4.9 lb of Load Hauler, and Who Should Skip It
- Backpacks Osprey Rook 65 Review: The Budget Pack That Does Most of an Atmos
- Sleeping Pads Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft Review: The Most Comfortable Pad I've Read About, at a Price in Ounces
- ultralight-tents Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo Review: 26 Ounces, 26 Square Feet, One Catch
- Backpacking Stoves Best Lightweight Backpacking Stoves for 2026
Get one honest gear take every Friday.
One email a week: new reviews, one gear pick with my reasoning, and nothing sponsored. Confirm your address and you get my printable 2-page backpacking gear checklist.
You'll get a confirmation link first, and nothing else arrives until you click it. Every email has a one-click unsubscribe. How your email is handled