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Every category we cover, from packs to stoves. Start with the gear you came to research.

Backpacks

Osprey Exos 58 Review

A lightweight framed pack that nails the balance between comfort and stripped-down design. Excellent ventilation, removable features, and load transfer up to 35 pounds. Small hipbelt pockets and light fabric are the tradeoffs.

Brooke Wilder 7 min read

Osprey Atmos AG 65 vs Atmos AG LT 65 vs Gregory Paragon 60 vs Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60: Best Multi-Day Backpack, Compared

Sep 4
Gregory Paragon 60 vs Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 vs Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60: Pick by Pack Style

Aug 18
3F UL Gear Qidian Pro Review: Half-Price Ultralight, Half-Measure Comfort

Jul 9

Tents

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ultralight-tents

Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 vs NEMO Dragonfly OSMO vs Tiger Wall UL2 vs Hornet OSMO 1P: The Best Ultralight Backpacking Tents of 2026

Copper Spur UL2, Dragonfly OSMO, Tiger Wall UL2, Fly Creek UL1 and Hornet OSMO 1P compared on weight, space, setup, storm readiness and price. Different hikers walk away with different winners.

Brooke Wilder 10 min read

Durston X-Mid vs Tarptent Notch vs Zpacks Duplex vs MLD SoloMid XL: The Best Trekking Pole Tents for 2026

Sep 4

Sleeping Bags

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Sleeping Bags

Best Winter Backpacking Sleeping Pads

These four insulated pads solve different winter backpacking problems, from safest all-around warmth to comfort-first cold-weather sleep and better value.

Brooke Wilder 5 min read

Best Ultralight Sleeping Bags for Backpacking

Jul 15
Sleeping Bag vs Quilt for Backpacking: Which Sleep System Fits You?

Jun 24
Western Mountaineering UltraLite Review

Jun 7

Cooking

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Backpacking Stoves

MSR Switch Stove System Review: Worth It for Real Trail Cooking?

The MSR Switch earns its weight with true simmer control and two cookware modes. It is a strong pick for trail cooks, but overkill for boil-only backpackers.

Brooke Wilder 6 min read

SOTO WindMaster Review

Jul 31
MSR PocketRocket 2 Review

Jun 6

Footwear

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Hiking Boots

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX vs Altra Lone Peak 8: Waterproof Boot or Zero-Drop Trail Runner

The Salomon wins for wet protection and support. The Lone Peak wins for adapted zero-drop hikers who want less foot weight and faster drying.

Brooke Wilder 10 min read

Altra Lone Peak 8 Review

Jun 6
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Review

Jun 1

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