Best Stand Up Paddle Boards of 2025

Last Updated: June 27, 2025

Stand up paddle boards (SUPs, for short) are a great way to get out on the water, whether you're trying to explore coves, catch fish, or relax in the sun. These compact vessels are surprisingly durable, stable and efficient on the water, and versatile...

Dax Board Co. DownDog 11'6" Stand-Up Paddleboard Review

Last Updated: June 27, 2025

Dax Board Company is a South Lake Tahoe-based husband/wife operation that began as a rental shop in 2012 and evolved into their own paddle board company in 2020. They now offer five board models...

Shop the 2025 REI Co-op 4th of July Deals

Last Updated: June 27, 2025

Summer is upon us, and for many outdoor enthusiasts, that means spending more time outside doing the activities we love most. Quality gear certainly doesn’t come cheap, but REI’s 4th of July Sale—which kicks off on Friday, June 27 and...

Best Hydration Packs

Last Updated: June 27, 2025

No matter the length or location of your hike, hydration is one of the keys to staying happy and healthy on the trail. There are a number of ways to ensure that you drink enough water throughout the day, but by far the most convenient is a hydration...

Salomon Speedcross 6 Trail Running Shoe Review

Last Updated: June 26, 2025

The latest version of Salomon’s Speedcross raises the bar for trail running on muddy, snowy, and soft terrain. The real magic lies in the outsole...

Salomon S/Lab Pulsar 4 Trail Running Shoe Review

Last Updated: June 26, 2025

Every so often, a pair of trail running shoes comes along that just makes running fun. This year, it's the Salomon's S/Lab Pulsar 4 for me. These performance-oriented shoes have the most stable, locked-in feel of anything I've tested this season...

Backpacking Checklist

Last Updated: June 24, 2025

Whether you’re a first-time backpacker or a seasoned veteran, everyone could use a good packing list to make sure they’re prepared before hitting the trail. Our detailed checklist below covers everything from critical backpacking equipment (tent, pack...

Salomon ADV Skin 5 Hydration Vest Review

Last Updated: June 23, 2025

Salomon holds a strong corner of the hydration vest market, landing at the top of our running vest reviews year after year. The ADV Skin 5 checks all the boxes, with accessible, easy-to-organize pockets, a comfortable fit, and a 5-liter capacity...

Does Your Backpacking Tent Need a Footprint?

Last Updated: June 20, 2025

This age-old question challenges newbie backpackers and veterans alike. You've already spent a substantial amount on a tent, but should you tack on the extra purchase of a footprint? Is it really necessary? Below we break down the key components of the...

Good Backpacking Gear on a Budget

Last Updated: June 20, 2025

It’s no secret that the biggest barrier to entry for a lot of outdoor activities is cost. And every year, gear manufacturers come out with the latest and greatest technologies, which feature thinner and more...

Best Mountain Bike Brands of 2025

Last Updated: June 19, 2025

For many mountain bikers, understanding the background, history, and ethos of a company has a major impact on the purchase of a new rig. However, with so many brands to choose from, it can be difficult to navigate the landscape and find a good match...

Scarpa F1 XT Ski Boot Review

Last Updated: June 17, 2025

The original Scarpa F1 amassed a loyal following of light-and-fast ski mountaineers almost overnight, as it was the race boot. The Alien RS was a lighter-weight version of the original F1, which then morphed into the F1 LT, and now weighing an...