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hiker sitting next to tent

How to choose a backpacking tent

Freestanding or tensioned? Single wall or double walls? There are a dozen decisions to be made when choosing a new backpacking tent.

male hiker wearing hardshell jacket

How to choose a rain jacket

Learn the difference between a hard shell and rain shell as well as why you might choose one over the other.

female hiker wearing jacket

Gear guide: outdoor jackets

The right jacket will keep you warm and dry. But with so many choices in insulation, shell fabric and features, choosing an outer layer is no easy decision

tarp rigged in A-frame configuration

Gear guide: tarps

Tarps come a wide range of shapes, styles, and sizes. Here you’ll learn what to look for when picking out your next ultralight shelter.

waterproof symbol

Waterproof-breathable fabrics explained

If you’ve ever wondered what is meant by ‘DWR’, ‘tricot’ or ‘water-resistant’, you’ll find answers to your questions about waterproof fabrics right here.

survival kit

Survival kit essentials

To be practical, a survival kit has to contain the bare essentials while being light enough and compact enough to carry on almost any backcountry adventure

3 brands of sunscreen

What to look for in a sport sunscreen

Everything you need to know about sunscreen and how to choose one that will save your skin.

synthetic and down jacket

PrimaLoft, down, and the science of insulation

PrimaLoft or down. How do you choose the best fill for a jacket or sleeping bag? Learn all you need to know in this guide on insulation.

packed poncho

Poncho vs rain jacket for hiking

Struggling to choose between a rain jacket and poncho? Read on to learn the pros and cons of each as well as the conditions they work best in.