Best of Backpacking Gear 2021

Gearing up for a long walk in the woods or an extended stay in the backcountry? Check out some of our favorite new packs, tents, sleeping bags, footwear, clothes, and other gear for getting out and staying out! Here are our top backpacking gear picks for Spring/Summer 2021:

Black Diamond Onsight 375

The high-powered Onsight was purpose-built for climbers venturing out onto big walls even after the sun has set, but its performance features strike us as being ideal for hiking and trail running too. With a hybrid “Dual-Fuel”…

LEKI Cross Trail 3 TA

Sometimes it feels like every outdoor activity calls for a specific tool and without a full toolbox, you’re behind the curve. Take trekking poles as example and you will see specific models for hiking, for running,…

Big Agnes TwisterCane Bio Foam

Depending on conditions or the season, traditional closed-cell foam pads are still as reliable a sleeping pad option as there is. There is nothing to inflate or deflate and the weight is usually insignificant in comparison…

Outdoor Research Motive AscentShell Jacket

Back in 2016, Outdoor Research unveiled its proprietary AscentShell technology which uses an electrospun process to deliver excellent breathability with enhanced stretch while still ensuring total weatherproof protection. The jackets that have employed this technology have…

Outdoor Research Seattle Sombrero

Legendary. It is not a term to be bestowed lightly, but the Seattle Sombrero has certainly earned it. There simply isn’t a more recognizable rain hat in the outdoors and with no reason to fix what…