The Gear Guide
- Backpacking Gear (6)
- Gift Guides (3)
- Hiking Boots (7)
- Hiking Clothing (7)
- Hiking Gear and Accessories (16)
- Mobile Apps (5)
Everything You Need to Hit the Trail
Our comprehensive guide to the best hiking gear, including how to shop for it.
The Ten Essentials for Hikers
"The Ten Essentials" is a concise list of must-have equipment for backcountry travel. Here's how it applies to hikers.
Tips for Daypack Shoppers
This REI guide take you through a variety of daypack designs and materials to help you identify the ideal model to meet your hiking needs.
Essential Hiking Gear You Can't Do Without
Everyone has a slightly different version of what you should carry on a hike, but these four essentials will always be on the list.
How Gear (and Clothing) Tests Work
Are you wondering how I test hiking gear, and where I get it from? I've got your answers right here!
The Best Books for Hikers
From instructional materials to gripping true tales, these are my favorite hiking-related reads.
How to Choose the Right Hiking Gear
This quick buying guide introduces you to the essentials of purchasing hiking gear. If you want more information about shopping for any type of gear, just click the "Read more" link.
Where to Buy Inexpensive Hiking Gear
You can< find good-quality, inexpensive hiking gear -- if you know where and when to shop. Here's a list of the best places to look for deals on both new and used gear for hiking and backpacking.
What's in My Hiking Emergency Kit
The right emergency kit is a balance between preparedness and convenience. Here's a look at what one experienced hiker carries, and why.
What to Take on Your First Day Hike
Wondering what to pack for your first day hike? Here's the answer!
Q & A With Buystand CEO Joe Davy
Get the inside line on how Buystand works, and where it's going from here, in an interview with Buystand CEO Joe Davy.
Hiking Book Review: Snow Sense by Jill Fredston and Doug Fesler
Hikers can get caught in avalanches too. Fortunately they're not random, and this book -- Snow Sense by Jill Fredston and Doug Fesler -- is one of the best tools for learning how to avoid avalanches in the backcountry.
How to Attach Snowshoes To Your Backpack
Snowshoes are a great tool for winter and spring hiking -- but carrying them by hand gets old fast. Here's how to attach them to your pack instead.
Are you combining travel with hiking? Here's what hiking gear you can and can't take on a plane with you.