Gear Closet: Fishpond Westwater Carry-On Duffle

Duffle bags have been a staple of adventure travel since before it was even deemed a category. For decades climbers, explorers, and hunters have carried duffles on their expeditions, thanks in no small part to their ability to provide a convenient way to carry a lot of gear to places where normal luggage isn’t suitable, … Read more

Backpacker Picks the Best New Gear of Spring 2015

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With spring officially here, it is time to start planning some outdoor adventures, with hiking, backpacking, and camping trips on the agenda. It is also a good time to pick up some new gear for those excursions, and Backpacker magazine is here to help in that department. The outdoor adventure-focused mag has recently published its … Read more

Gear Closet: Camelbak Forge

Camelbak Forge

Do you have a coffee-loving adventurer on your shopping list this holiday season? If so, you might want to consider picking up a Forge travel mug from CamelBak, the same company that makes hydration packs for just about every activity you can think of. I first got the opportunity to check out the Forge back … Read more

Gear Closet: Polaroid XS100 Action Camera

Polaroid Sport Action Video Cameras

Judging from marketshare – not to mention mindshare – you would think that the ubiquitous GoPro Hero 3 would be the only option available in the wearable, action camera market. But despite what GoPro’s incessant marketing campaign would lead you to believe, there are actually alternative options on that rival their device, and even surpass … Read more

Gear Closet: STABILicer Maxx Ice Cleats

STABILicer Maxx Ice Cleats

Winter may be coming to a rapid end, but that doesn’t mean we won’t have to deal with ice and snow before it releases us from its grip. There is nothing worse than an early spring blizzard or ice storm to really put a damper on our enthusiasm for the arrival of warmer weather. With … Read more

Gear Review: Yaktrax Walk

Yaktrax Walk

Yesterday I posted a review of a new pair of running shoes designed specifically for running on snow and ice. Those shoes were waterproof, comfortable and had integrated spikes to help keep your footing on snow and ice. They also come with a price tag of $155. But for those looking for something a bit … Read more

Gear Closet: Eureka Midori Solo Tent

Eureka Midori Solo Tent

Last year, tent-maker Eureka made a splash with a well designed new line of backpacking shelters in the form of the Midori 2 and 3. Those tents were lauded for being lightweight and affordable while still offering plenty of features that campers and backpackers really appreciate. This year they’re bringing that same sensibility to the … Read more

Gear Closet: Keen Verdi Mid WP Hiking Boots

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Comfortable, lightweight, durable and affordable. That seems to be the formula that Keen follows when designing their hiking boots, and over the years they’ve managed to work that formula into a fine art. Their boots have always been the perfect choice for the ultra-light backpacker, weekend warrior or adventure traveler. The company’s new Verdi Mid … Read more