Gear
ArchiveOur gear director explains what makes the Lightweight Merino Buff a critical part of his daily kit
Stop relying on bulky socks to keep your feet warm when you hike
After learning that length is indeed equal to warmth, I now wear a parka for everything but backcountry activities
The Rocket X2 marathon racer delivers soft landings and propulsive blast-offs that rival the best in the business
Our editor has tips for staying warm—but not too toasty
Which is better: a couple of pieces that capably do the job, or an array of options for dialed-in performance?
Here’s what our team used to thrive last month
The Consumer Product Safety Commission says that the products can release harmful magnets when the closure systems degrade or fail
What we can learn about winter safety from drivers behaving badly in California and Nevada
Topo’s super-foam-powered Cyclone 2 perfects the brand’s vision of combining the best qualities of natural-movement footwear and cushioned running shoes
Long a staple of quality fixed-blade knives, the grippiest handle material is now adding traction to folding knives, too
Many rider focus on downhill performance above all else. So why the obsession with lightweight parts?
For when you want to get groceries one day and access a remote fishing hole the next
The latest technology from Iridium keeps execs and entrepreneurs online in the most remote parts of the world
You’ll have a new challenge and it will give you a new way to see your local hill
My other boots are gathering dust since I started wearing Blundstone’s Thermal Chelsea Boots
We explain the differences between the options on the market, so you can find the one makes the most sense for your riding style
Bikes don't run trouble-free forever. Here are some preventative and diagnostic tips and tricks to keep you riding.
It feels silly to be obsessed with a pair of pants, but Proof’s Rovers are really that good
Save cash and have fun with these tips
Some bike shops are intimidating. Here's how to navigate them.
The Rivera 3 delivers the benefits of Altra's footshaped fit and balanced, zero-drop design without feeling weird
There can be advantages to both, so what is right for you?
This crossover features clever packaging, self-leveling rear suspension, and standout design
The all-new Salomon QST Echo 106 is a lighter weight QST 106 designed for uphill slogs and downhill joy rides
It's easier than it's ever been, but there are still some nuances to understand
COROS just launched the APEX 2 Pro Kilian Jornet Edition, and it comes with the chance to join a 12-week virtual training program with the GOAT himself
Choosing a mountain bike is more complicated than ever, but the good news is we're here to help
Are expensive sunglasses worth it? Two Outside gear editors don’t exactly see eye to eye.
Skip the dozen roses and expensive dinner out. With these 11 ideas under $100, give each other the gift of adventure instead.
After years spent searching, I think I’ve found it: the ideal tool kit to keep in your vehicle
Backpacker executive editor Adam Roy has fully embraced the eccentric footwear after previously swearing them off. Here’s why.
After having my butt saved numerous times by a trekking pole, I now make sure to always pack one in my backcountry kit
Nature documentary meets virtual reality with Into the Now, a new series by award-winning photojournalist Michael Muller
If our half-baked effort resulted in the first Grim Donut going six seconds quicker than a production bike, what would happen if we sat down and took it a bit more seriously?
A primer on how to shop for secondhand gear
Ready or not, BOA is coming to a downhill ski boot near you
Just as cozy with remarkable technology? Consider me a convert.
The Norda 001 G+ Spike tames impossible trails while keeping you dry and protected in winter weather
Hint: He never stopped hiking
The Happier Camper HC1 Studio isn't just pretty
Columnist Eben Weiss argues that any shoe is potentially a great bike shoe
16 tester favorites for the 2023 season
The activity tracking company received criticism after raising fees based on a user’s region, billing type, and date of signup
Matt Mendes is inspiring the new spirit of fly fishing
Bryan Rogala Tours a Renovated Camper
Ask yourself these key questions to choose the right ski shell for you
Going minimalist can heighten anxieties about staying safe in the backcountry. Here’s how to let some of them go
Some of our favorite gear is garbage. And that's why we love it so much
We scoured the iconic brand's winter sale and found some of our favorite gear at 40 percent off
Sure, everyone has a light on their phone, but preparedness nerds, we need something more
After testing trail-running kits from dozens of brands in an array of nasty conditions, I’ve found my favorite pieces
After two years of testing, our writer says the Colorado Teardrops Summit Pinnacle gets the job done and more
From electric off-roaders to heavy-duty trucks for towing trailers
Bryan Rogala reviews the AOR Sierra
From beanies to toe warmers, here's the best cycling kit for cold-weather commutes
The popularity of gravel cycling has prompted tire manufacturers to go wider and softer. Has the trend gone too far?
Bryan Rogala reviews a Can-Am Defender
The Rustler and Sheeva have been top-performing skis for years, but Blizzard is updating them anyway. We went to the company’s factory in Austria to find out why.
Snowtrekker’s new release is the perfect portable, wood-burning dry or wet sauna. Fire it up to unwind after a long winter run or cozy up before bed.
The Mountain Hardwear Kor Airshell Warm is our tester’s new favorite layer
From what to buy to what to leave behind, our ultralight columnist offered up essential advice this year
Five cold-weather merino wool pieces that combine superior performance and longevity
Washing your face or bowl with Dr. Bronner’s? Sure. Using it to cure congestion? Maybe. Using it as toothpaste? Hmm.
Bryan Rogala reviews the Leitner Forged Active Cargo System, Decked Drawers, and CargoGlide
Which down alternative does the best job of keeping you warm without weighing you down?
Zoe Gates went winter backpacking with guide Eric Larsen, and learned valuable lessons on cold-weather gear, nutrition, navigation, and survival
Bryan Rogala gets a tour of Brian Smith’s latest van build
I signed up for the On Cyclon subscription running-shoe service and get a perfectly clean new pair every three months
After enduring a wet, cold hunting trip, I’m going to make a versatile, ultra-lightweight shelter an essential piece of my backpacking kit
Which of these popular aprés accessories burns brighter?
Should the Yonder replace your Nalgene?
Others can’t compete with the latest synthetic insulation and rugged construction
Usually, I ignore Instagram’s advertisements—but it’s getting harder and harder to. So I decided to put the app’s algorithm to the test.
Cotton isn’t for the backcountry, but it has a spot everywhere else
Winter backpacking doesn't have to be about suffering. For cheerful cold-weather trips, we can learn something from the Danes
These items make it easy to get out before work for some much-needed, quiet contemplation.
Need the nuclear option for staying warm this winter? Reach for one of these five ultra-cozy winter essentials.
Whether you’re on a road trip, in an off-roading competition, or rescuing marine wildlife, the Defender is the vehicle for the job