Gear Reviews
Every product below has been field-tested by our team. Prices update at the merchant — we may earn a commission when you buy through our links.
Best OverallArc'teryx Beta AR Jacket
The gold-standard all-round hardshell. Gore-Tex Pro shrugs off multi-day storms while the fit layers cleanly over a puffy.
Best ValuePatagonia Torrentshell 3L
A 3-layer shell at a 2.5-layer price. Reliable waterproofing, pit zips, and Patagonia's repair program make it the default recommendation.
Best for Wet ClimatesOutdoor Research Foray II
Full-length side zips turn this Gore-Tex Paclite shell into a poncho when you need maximum venting on humid climbs.
Best OverallSalomon X Ultra 4 GTX
A light, agile low-cut hiker with a locked-in fit and Contagrip outsole that grips wet rock better than anything else we tested.
Best BudgetMerrell Moab 3 Mid WP
The world's best-selling hiking boot for a reason: out-of-box comfort, wide sizing options, and a price that's hard to beat.
Best for ScramblingLa Sportiva TX4
An approach shoe with a sticky Vibram Megagrip sole and climbing-zone toe that eats fourth-class terrain for breakfast.
Best OverallOsprey Atmos AG 65
The AntiGravity suspended mesh back panel makes 40 lbs feel like 25. Our testers' favorite pack for week-long trips, four years running.
Best LightweightGregory Paragon 58
A sub-4-lb pack that still carries 35 lbs comfortably — the sweet spot for weekenders trimming weight without going full ultralight.
Best Overall TentBig Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
The benchmark ultralight 2P tent: 3 lbs, two doors, near-vertical walls, and enough storm-worthiness for three-season backpacking.
Best Value TentREI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+
Roomy, durable, and half the price of ultralight competitors. The tent we recommend to anyone buying their first backpacking shelter.
Best ComfortNEMO Disco 15 Sleeping Bag
A spoon-shaped 15°F bag that lets side sleepers actually sleep. 650-fill down keeps it under 3 lbs.
Best OverallSmartwool Classic Thermal Merino 250
100% merino, 250-weight warmth, zero itch. The base layer our testers reach for from October through April.
Best FleecePatagonia R1 Air Full-Zip
A breathable zig-zag fleece that insulates on the climb without cooking you — the active layer that replaced three others in our kit.