staff picks

We polled our writers, editors, and production team to see what their favorite gear items.

Staff Picks
Sam's Favorite Gear from the Pacific Northwest Trail
Sam's Favorite Gear from the Pacific Northwest Trail
Our Favorite Energy Gels and Chews for Outdoor Activities
Our Favorite Energy Gels and Chews for Outdoor Activities
The Gear That Changed My Mind
The Gear That Changed My Mind
Our Favorite Outdoor Gear Made in the USA 2025
Our Favorite Outdoor Gear Made in the USA 2025
Outdoor Gear That Will Last for Life
Outdoor Gear That Will Last for Life
Best Freeze Dried Backpacking Meals
Best Freeze Dried Backpacking Meals
Treeline Review Writers Share Their Favorite Gear for a PCT Thru-hike
Treeline Review Writers Share Their Favorite Gear for a PCT Thru-hike
Sam’s 5 Favorite Gear Items from the Appalachian Trail
Sam’s 5 Favorite Gear Items from the Appalachian Trail
Our Testers Followed Our Own Gear Recommendations. Here’s What Happened…
Our Testers Followed Our Own Gear Recommendations. Here’s What Happened…
Best Sustainable Outdoor Gear Ideas of 2024
Best Sustainable Outdoor Gear Ideas of 2024
Our Favorite Gear by Women-Owned Brands 2024
Our Favorite Gear by Women-Owned Brands 2024
Elliot’s Favorite Gear from the Appalachian Trail
Elliot’s Favorite Gear from the Appalachian Trail
Our Favorite Gear of 2023
Our Favorite Gear of 2023
Liz's Favorite Gear From the Arizona Trail
Liz's Favorite Gear From the Arizona Trail
What I Wouldn't Carry on the PCT Again
What I Wouldn't Carry on the PCT Again

Backpacking lists

Backpacking gear lists