The Most Popular Backcountry GPS Units
A simple overview of three of the most popular GPS satellite communicators for backpacking, including Garmin, SPOT, and Somewear.
Maggie’s Winter Recreation Apparel, Plus How to Layer for Each Sport
Maggie’s overview on the clothing she’s been wearing for winter hiking, running, classic cross-country skiing, and skate skiing. Plus, tips on how to layer for each sport.
What You Need to Know About the New Sleeping Pad R-Values
This year, all sleeping pad manufacturers began using the same testing method to assign R-values to pads. As a result, the R-value for some pads increased, while it dropped for others, although no structural changes were made in the pads. Here’s the breakdown.
Hugh’s 40-Year Journey to Lightweight Backpacking
BPR editor Hugh Owen started backpacking in the 1970s with a massive external-frame pack, heavy boots, and an 8-pound tent. Here’s his gear transformation over the past 40 years.
“Socked In:” Gear Part II: What’s in Her Pack
Rebecca “Socked In” hikes year round in New England. Here’s the hiking gear she always keeps in her pack.
Maggie’s November Ouachita Trail Gear List
Maggie’s gear list for a November thru-hike of the Ouachita Trail, including what she used, how it worked, and what she recommends.
Backpacking Gear Jeff Started Using in 2020 and Absolutely Loves
These are the backpacking items I started using in 2020 that have a permanent place in my pack, despite not changing my gear very often.
How To Choose Hiking Shoes + Our Top Picks
Our top recommendations for hiking shoes, plus tips on how to buy them, details on what exactly a zero-drop shoe is, and the benefits of different styles.
These Are the Clothes that Hiking Fiend “Socked In” Wears for Each Season
Rebecca “Socked In” Sperry hikes in New Hampshire more than anyone we know, regardless of season or weather. Here’s the clothing she wears in every season.
Maggie’s Waterproof Oregon Coast Trail Gear
Maggie carried a plethora of waterproof gear items on her November section of the Oregon Coast Trail. Here’s how they worked. Or didn’t.