Mountain Equipment Makalu Hardshell Jacket Review

Last Updated: July 3, 2025

For over 50 years, Mountain Equipment has been a go-to brand for climbers and mountaineers tackling the harshest conditions in Europe. Their Makalu Jacket stands out as one of the most versatile hard shells on the market, built with a rugged...

Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes of 2025

Last Updated: July 3, 2025

As hiking footwear continues to move away from bulky boots towards lightweight trail runners, hiking shoes have become increasingly streamlined while still impressively capable. Often made with similar materials as mid-height boots—but with a lower...

Best Hiking Shoes of 2025

Last Updated: July 2, 2025

The momentum in hiking footwear is moving away from bulky boots toward lightweight shoes and even trail runners that are faster and more comfortable. You do lose some ankle support when carrying a heavy pack or traversing rocky trails, but the weight...

Women's Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex Hiking Shoe Review

Last Updated: July 2, 2025

Now in its fifth iteration, Salomon’s longstanding X Ultra line is a popular choice for everything from day hiking to lightweight backpacking. I recently tested the low-top X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex on a trip to Alaska and came away...

Best Massage Guns of 2025

Last Updated: July 1, 2025

We’re all suckers for a massage, whether it’s to relax, work out a few kinks, warm up the body pre-workout, or speed up recovery after a big effort. And there’s no shortage of at-home methods, including...

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Halka 55 Backpack Review

Last Updated: July 1, 2025

Hyperlite Mountain Gear has long been a go-to for ultralight mountaineers, and their Halka 55L proves they’re still definitive leaders in the alpine realm. Built specifically for high-altitude pursuits and developed in collaboration with seasoned...

Camping Checklist

Last Updated: June 27, 2025

Whether it’s your first time car camping or you’ve been at it for years, it never hurts to have a good checklist. To help you get out of the house with all of the essentials in tow, we’ve outlined everything you need including campsite and sleeping...

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...