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GEAR ROOM

Every piece of gear we review is tested in the field — not in a warehouse, not on a treadmill. Real miles, real conditions, honest verdicts.

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What Backpacking Weight is Really About

BEYOND ULTRALIGHT

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OSPREY * PACKS

Osprey Atmos AG 65

The gold standard of multi-day backpacking packs. The Anti-Gravity suspension system is genuinely transformative on long days with heavy loads.

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ALSO THIS WEEK

All Gear

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OSPREY I PACKS

OSPREY ATMOS AG 65

The gold standard of multi-day backpacking packs. The Anti-Gravity suspension system is genuinely transformative on long days with heavy loads.

4.8

REVIEW

OSPREY I PACKS

OSPREY ATMOS AG 65

Snow camping sounds miserable until you try it. Then it still sounds miserable and completley addictive. 

4.8

REVIEW

GREGORY I PACKS

GREGORY BALTORO 65

When you're carrying 50+ pounds for a week in the backcountry, the Baltoro's Response A3 suspension earns every dollar of its price tag.

4.6

REVIEW

HYPERLITE MOUNTAIN GEAR I  PACKS

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 3400

The HMG 3400 Southwest is a rugged, ultralight 55L backpack made from 100% Dyneema, weighing under 2 pounds while delivering exceptional durability for long thru-hikes and technical terrain.

4.7

REVIEW
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MSR I  SHELTER

MSR Hubba Hubba NX2

A near-perfect balance of weight, livability, and weather protection. The Hubba Hubba NX2 has earned its legendary status.

4.7

REVIEW

OSPREY I PACKS

OSPREY ATMOS AG 65

The gold standard of multi-day backpacking packs. The Anti-Gravity suspension system is genuinely transformative on long days with heavy loads.

4.8

REVIEW

BIG AGNES I SHELTER

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

The light freestanding 2-person tent that does not make you feel like you are sleeping in a coffin. The Copper Spur HV UL2 is the benchmark for ultralight backpacking shelter.

4.8

REVIEW

OSPREY I PACKS

Black Diamond HiLight 3P

Built for the mountains when they are at their worst. The HiLight 3P handles wind, snow, and sustained storms that would flatten lesser shelters.

4.6

REVIEW
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If you’ve ever searched for the perfect hiking backpack or wondered why one tent handles wind better than another, there’s a good chance you’ve stumbled upon My Life Outdoors Steven Smith. Known for his clear explanations, engaging style and knack for...

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TENTS

From ultralight tarps and bivy sacks to camping under the sky, backpackers are rethinking what shelter really means and how much comfort..

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TRAIL EATS

From Mountain House classics to chef-driven freeze-dried meals, backpackers are reshaping how they eat on trail, where calories, convenience and weight matter more ...

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FOOTWEAR

From cushioning to grip to weight, hikers break down how footwear choices shape comfort...

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EXPLORE

More gear

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CAMPING

Experienced camper Courtney Rohrig offers tips on gear, campsite selection, safety and Leave No Trace principles to help beginners build confidence outdoors.

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TIPS

Seasoned hikers cut weight and boost reliability by focusing on repair skills, smart redundancy and field-tested essentials instead of overpacking.

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HIKING

From ultralight carbon fiber models to no-pole purists, hikers debate whether trekking poles improve efficiency and stability or just add unnecessary weight and complication on the trail.

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