Topics
With over 20 years publishing the latest in outdoor and adventure news, reviews of the best gear on the planet, and coverage of emerging gear, GearJunkie.com is your authoritative outdoor source. We travel the globe and test equipment against the elements.
News
GearJunkie experts cover breaking news in the world of the outdoors, adventure, and gear for the industry insider and backyard adventurer alike.
Kick Off Camping: Free Entry at All National Parks on April 19
National Park Week kicks off with a free entry day, and extends to April 27 with events, themed days, and volunteer opportunities.
New-Look Natural Selection Tour Aims to Disrupt Ski, Bike, and Surf Competitions
The newest evolution of the Natural Selection Tour will include skiing, surfing, and biking events. As with the original snowboarding competition, each event will be designed by athletes for athletes.
UPDATE: Convicted Poacher of ‘Hollywood Buck’ Sentenced to Jail Time
Virginia officials said they hoped the stiff penalties would deter other poachers.
New State Record on the Line: Montana Fisherman Catches Giant Chinook Salmon
Jim Fauth snagged the giant fish in Fort Peck Reservoir — the only Montana waterbody that contains Chinook salmon.
Biking
Check out news and gear reviews for mountain biking, bikepacking, road racing, winter fat biking, urban commuting, e-bikes, and more.
The Best Mountain Bike Helmets of 2025
We tested the top models from Giro, Specialized, POC, Smith, and more to help you find the best mountain bike helmet for your next ride.
The Best Bike Lights of 2025
We tested models from Knog, Fenix, Garmin, Lezyne, and more to find the best bike lights for every need and budget.
E-Bikes Catching Fire: Santa Cruz Recalls Battery on Heckler 9
The California bike manufacturer said some of its Heckler 9 e-bike batteries can pose a fire hazard and that customers should stop riding and check immediately whether their battery is included.
Our Editors Love This ‘Go Anywhere’ Utility Bike: Eaglebear Black Everyday Review
The Eaglebear Black Everyday Bike is a chameleon. It can slyly switch between commuting, road riding, gravel, and trail.
Camping
From rugged multiday backpacking to a weekend car-camping trip, we cover the gear you need — from tents and hammocks to stoves and sleeping bags.
Two Bear Canisters in One: REI Traverse Modular Bear Canister Review
The REI Traverse Modular Bear Canister can change sizes with a unique design that allows you to remove its middle section, so you can accommodate shorter or longer trips and different group sizes.
Ultralight, Freestanding Tent Braves Extreme Weather: Hyperlite Mountain Gear CrossPeak 2 Review
The CrossPeak 2 is Hyperlite’s first foray into freestanding tents, and in typical style it is ultra-tough, ultra-spendy, and ultralight.
Free Gear Fridays: Win a Sea to Summit Hamelin Sleeping Bag
This week, two lucky winners will receive the new Hamelin Synthetic Sleeping Bag: 15-Degree (a $189 value) from Sea to Summit.
This Titanium Oven Tray Looks Absurd, Until You Realize It’s Probably Awesome
At first glance, a titanium oven tray seems ridiculous. But its outdoor utility is more justified than a lot of other gear we’ve seen.
Climbing
From local crag climbing to trad epics, bouldering gym to mixed ice, we cover the gear, people, and places that define the ultimate adventure sport.
Watch Babsi Zangerl Become the First Person to Flash Yosemite’s El Capitan
In November of last year, Babsi Zangerl, 36, became the first person to flash a route on Yosemite’s most famous formation, El Capitan. ‘Flashed’ tells the story of this historic moment.
Bouldering’s Toughest Problem? Adam Ondra Eyes First-Ever V18
Watch Adam Ondra flash several benchmark boulders in Fontainebleau and end the tour of the French forest on a V18 project.
Kick Off Camping: Free Entry at All National Parks on April 19
National Park Week kicks off with a free entry day, and extends to April 27 with events, themed days, and volunteer opportunities.
A Softer, More Sensitive SCARPA Instinct Climbing Shoe: We Review the VSR
The SCARPA Instinct VSR brings a softer, more supple model to the brand’s wildly successful Instinct line of high-performance climbing shoes.
Fitness
We cover fitness, nutrition, training, wellness, and health with a focus on gear, tips, and techniques to maximize performance in your outdoor pursuits.
The Best Running Hats of 2025
Whether pounding the pavement or hitting the trail, we’ve found the best running hats from REI, Brooks, Patagonia, and more!
The Best Swimming Goggles of 2025
We tested the best swimming goggles from Speedo, TYR, and more.
‘Like Uber for Runners’: App Aims to Keep Women Safe With On-Call Running Mates
Currently popular among women travelers, Running Mate allows users to find paid running partners in major cities across the country.
The Best Fitness Watches of 2025
We tested the best fitness watches of 2025 with options for every budget. Our top picks include Garmin, COROS, and more!
Knives
From fixed-blade masterpieces of exotic steel to everyday folding knives, GearJunkie covers knives, axes, and multitools from the best makers in the world.
Curved for Your Pleasure: Iona V2 Pocket Knife Review
An outstanding workhorse with thoughtful design and ergonomics, the GiantMouse Iona V2 represents an exceptional value.
A Gentleman Knife With Working Man Heart: Bestech Knives Constellation Review
The Constellation redefines the gentleman’s knife by doing away with lightweight and dainty designs, replacing them with a workhorse you can still hide in a suit pocket.
Budget-Friendly Knife From a Mastermind: Spartan Blades Talos
Simple, subtle, and beautifully designed, the Spartan Blades Talos might be the most useful, long-lasting knife you can get for the price.
Kinetic, Addictive Action & Deployment: Pro-Tech Malibu Review
The Pro-Tech Malibu pocket knife is a slick little number with a CPM Manga cut blade, an aluminum handle, and a smooth deployment that feels great.
Motors
Whether getting your family to the local trailhead, rock crawling in Moab, overlanding in a far corner of the globe, or laying down some rubber at the track, GearJunkie Motors is your source for automotive adventure.
Fast, Fun, Fancy Electrified Dual Sport: 2025 Zero DSR/X Motorcycle Review
The Zero Motorcycles DSR/X electric adventure bike is an impressive display of engineering with powerful results.
Bury It, Winch It, Drive It Out: 2024 Can-Am Defender Max Limited Review
Not every side-by-side is built to survive being buried to the doors in Florida’s nastiest mud, but the 2024 Can-Am Defender Max isn’t every side-by-side.
Introducing the Overland Collective: Overland Industry Consolidation Continues
Three of the top four most influential overland industry companies join forces and create the ‘Overland Collective.’
First Hybrid Honda TrailSport Model: CR-V Joins the Off-Road Party
Buyers want to be able to hit the trail, so Honda wants to let them. The 2026 Honda CR-V is the smallest of the four TrailSport offerings.
Camper & RV
Looking for tiny tow-behinds, Class A cruisers, or overland adventure vehicles? We cover campers, RVs, van life, safety, destinations, and off-grid living.
Outdoorsy Escapes Offers Prime RV Stays, Minus the Driving
Outdoorsy Escapes curates an RV rental at a premium destination of your choice so you can simply check in and out of like a hotel.
The Best Soft Coolers of 2025
We tested the best soft coolers with styles for every budget and adventure. Top picks include YETI, RTIC, Hydro Flask, and more.
Tiny Form, Massive Space: Camp365 T-Model Truck Camper Is Ready to Expand Your Horizons
Introducing the Camp365 T-Model, a compact truck bed camper with huge living space.
Modular Versatility, Rugged Simplicity: AT Aterra Slide-In Truck Camper First Look
The AT Overland Aterra Slide-In truck camper is ready for remote off-road adventures straight from the factory, or can be a DIYer’s dream come true.
Outdoor
Outdoor activities like hiking, backpacking, camping, hunting, and fishing are core to GearJunkie’s coverage. Gear up and get out on your adventures.
The Next Big Thing? Debut ‘Switchback’ Show Rallies Big Outdoor Industry Support
The outdoor industry may have its next ‘big thing’ with the debut of the first standalone Switchback trade show. Here’s what to expect.
Yosemite National Park Finally Announces Reservation System
The new system is significantly different from previous years. Park advocates worry it could negatively impact Yosemite and its visitors.
Scorching Survival: ‘Alone’ Season 12 Heads to the Desert
Hit survival show ‘Alone’ moves season 12 to a desert billed as one of the most inhospitable places on earth. See where it will be filmed.
‘Unprecedented Threat’: Outdoor Brands to Raise Prices If Trump Tariffs Continue
From retail giants to smaller, nascent brands, the outdoor industry says that President Trump’s tariffs will soon lead to price increases for customers.
Technology
Capture your trip, stay in touch, and track your training. We cover the best tech products including cameras, beacons, smartwatches, apps, and more.
Gorgeous Sound & Damn Near Everything-Proof: Turtlebox Ranger Review
Texas-based Turtlebox calls its latest speaker ‘the most rugged, portable Bluetooth speaker available.’ After over a month of testing, I’m inclined to agree.
The Best Binoculars of 2025
We tested the best binoculars from Swarovski, NOCS Provisions, Celestron, Nikon, and more to help you find the best option for your needs and budget.
Rugged Watch With Detroit Soul: Shinola Duck Watch Review
With a 100m water rating and accurate quartz movement, the Shinola Duck is a handsome watch built in Detroit.
Dead-On Accurate, Drop-Dead Gorgeous: Nodus Duality II Dive Watch Review
The Nodus Duality II packs a unique internal rotating bezel into a handsome, adventure-capable package under a grand.
Travel
Our staff has gone around the world and back to find great adventure destinations, travel pro tips, and the best gear for the trip of a lifetime.
Circumnavigate the Largest Lake in North America on the Lake Superior Circle Tour
Three states, one Canadian province, 1,300 miles, and endless adventure along the shores of Lake Superior.
‘Floating’ Foam Pegs Protect Gear for Travel: Pelican Launches Re-Set System
Pelican Re-Set is a grid of foam pegs creates a protective interior organization system for hard cases that can adjust and reset on the go.
10K Miles of Europe: McGregor, Boorman Ride Vintage Motorcycles Across Continent
After filming three previous motorcycle adventures together, the pair’s latest road trip sees them traveling across Europe on vintage motorcycles.
Explore New Dirt in Coachella Valley With Musician Goth Babe
From winding desert roads to towering rock formations, inspiration lives in the raw landscapes that fuel this musician’s creativity.
Hunting
GearJunkie is your expert source for hunting news. Discover the best knives, apparel, and more. Learn from hunting pros and guides about bows, ammunition, and gear.
KUIU HD Mud Boots Handle Tough Terrain With Surprising Support
The KUIU HD Mud Boots are far more capable than I initially thought they’d be. They’re watertight, warm, comfortable, and supportive.
Dirt Cheap Mud Boots: Redhead Camo Utility Waterproof Boot Review
We tested the Redhead Camo Utility Waterproof boots to see if they could withstand the demands of hunters on a strict budget.
Barnes Harvest Collection: Affordable Ammo That Hits Where It Counts
A few manufacturers are still making reasonably priced rounds for everyday hunters chasing everyday game. The Harvest Collection is one of them.
Garmin Xero C1 Pro: A Chronograph That Fits in Your Pocket and Works for Every Weapon
The Garmin Xero C1 Pro puts precise fps data in your pocket with zero hassle and a whole lot of accuracy.
Packs
From hydration daypacks for the ultramarathoner to 100L porteurs for arctic expeditions, GearJunkie covers packs and luggage for every adventure.
Cotopaxi Expands Popular Allpa Collection With Two Bags
Cotopaxi adds to its adventure travel line of backpacks with its largest travel pack and a smaller daypack.
The Best Laptop Backpacks of 2025
Whether you’re headed to the office, class, or even the trailhead, here’s our top picks for the best laptop backpacks of 2025.
No-BS Bag With a Bike Messenger Soul: Mission Workshop Monty Review
Many messenger bags today tick most of the boxes, but lack the bike-centered soul. The Mission Workshop Monty isn’t one of them.
Budget-Friendly Ski Pack Offers Fast Tool Access: Pingora Vivid 27 Review
The Pingora Vivid 27 is a feature-rich ski pack made with industry-leading sustainable design — and it comes at a very competitive price.
Paddling
From serene backwater paddles to surfing epic curls, GearJunkie covers watercraft, accessories, and adventure from lakes and rivers to ocean surf.
Watch ‘Where Eagles Dare’: Columbia River Gorge Steep and Deep Kayaking
Come along for an adventure deep in the Columbia River Gorge’s Eagle Creek with some of the world’s best kayakers. Watch the ‘Where Eagles Dare’ short film.
Rugged, Reliable, Perfect for New Whitewater Paddlers: NRS Neutron Packraft Review
The new NRS Neutron Packraft is a thick-skinned vessel aimed at paddlers new to whitewater, and it impressed us with just how tough it is.
The Best Standup Paddleboards of 2025
Inflatable standup paddleboards are a fun, agile way to explore lakes, rivers, harbors, and the ocean. Check out our favorite field-tested SUPs.
Kick Off Camping: Free Entry at All National Parks on April 19
National Park Week kicks off with a free entry day, and extends to April 27 with events, themed days, and volunteer opportunities.
Apparel
The most important outdoor gear is what we wear. From technical apparel to performance fabrics, these products push the needle on innovation and style.
Dependable Down Warmth, Rain or Shine: Patagonia Jackson Glacier Jacket Review
Coupling down insulation with a waterproof exterior, the Patagonia Jackson Glacier Jacket is perfect for cold, wet climates and activities.
Alpaca Gets ‘The Cool Effect’: PAKA Coolplus Ultralight Sweat Wicking Crew
Paka claims blending breathable alpaca fibers with super-wicking Coolplus yarn makes a cool, non-sticky-feeling fabric that’s a perfect spring and summer midlayer.
Go There, Go Free, Go Pee: Gnara GoFly Active Bottoms Review
We tested Gnara’s innovative GoFly zipper design on the brand’s pants, shorts, and overalls to see how the new apparel and updates stand up.
Tough Women Hike in Skirts; You Should, Too
Freeing your legs might help you hike better. A dress might not be the first piece of gear you think to reach for at the trailhead, but maybe it should be.
Footwear
From trail-running shoes to winter boots, waterproof hikers, fishing waders, and minimalist and barefoot shoes, we cover footwear from pavement to peak.
The Old Goats Get Even Tougher: HOKA Speedgoat 6 Review
The HOKA Speedgoat 6 is a dependable option for trail runners looking for a shoe that balances cushioning, durability, and versatility.
Reebok Nano X5 Review: Reebok’s Most Complete CrossFit Shoe
Reebok has gotten the 15th iteration of the Nano closer to CrossFit perfection than anyone else. It offers excellent stability for lifting, durable sidewalls, and enough cushioning to bust out a few miles in comfort.
The Best Hiking Boots of 2025
If you’re looking for the best hiking boots, look no further. We’ve tested dozens of hiking boots over hundreds of miles to help you stay happy and comfortable on the trail.
The Best Running Shoes of 2025
We tested the best running shoes of 2025 with options for every budget. Top picks include Craft, HOKA, Brooks, and more!
Endurance
Endurance events like ultramarathons and adventure racing test the limits of human performance. Get inspired, train, and gear up for these growing sports.
The Best Running Hats of 2025
Whether pounding the pavement or hitting the trail, we’ve found the best running hats from REI, Brooks, Patagonia, and more!
The Best Running Sunglasses of 2025
Keep your eyes protected with our favorite shades, including Oakley, District Vision, Goodr, and more.
The Best Men’s Running Shirts of 2025
We put countless miles into finding the best running shirts. Here are our picks from Icebreaker, Arc’teryx, and more.
The Barkley Marathons Return ‘Harder Than Ever’: Watch Athletes Push Themselves to the Brink
Not many people finish the infamously challenging Barkley Marathon — this year, after multiple people finished in 2023 and 2024, the organizers made the race even tougher than before.
Food / Hydration
Outdoor athletes use endurance and recovery drinks, snacks, gels, and bars to keep going and rebound. CBD, camp food, and coolers are in the mix as well.
The Best Water Bottles of 2025
We tested and ranked our favorite water bottles for 2025, with options from YETI, Nalgene, and more.
‘Hottest Pellet Grill’ Reaches 1,250 Degrees: reqtec Launches X-Fire Pro
This wood pellet grill can heat up to 1,250 degrees, and its ability to sear and slow-cook make it a dual threat for backyard grilling.
Traeger Reignites Its Griddle Game for Smaller Spaces: Meet the Flatrock 2 Zone
Following the popularity of Traeger’s three-burner griddle, the Flatrock 2 Zone promises ‘best-in-class quality in a smaller footprint.’
The Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2025
We tested the best backpacking water filters and purifiers for your next trip into the great outdoors.
Slacklining
This unique activity involves walking and tricks on suspended webbing. Close to the ground or at dizzying heights, we cover slacklining gear and glory.
Highline Highlights: Watch World’s Best Highliners Go HAM in Championships
A lot of us already thought highlining was pretty impressive. Check out what the best ‘Speed’ and ‘Freestyle’ athletes in the biz can do.
Delica Like No Other: This 1988 Mitsubishi Might Be the Most Impressive Van Life Build Ever
A rare 1988 Mitsubishi Delica has hundreds of custom features and modifications — maybe more than any other van of its kind in the world.
Extreme Sports: Slacklining Over the Arctic Circle
This 10-minute documentary tells the story of six adventurers who attempt to slackline over the Arctic.
Watch ‘Untethered’: The Terrifying Art of Free Solo Slacklining
Spencer Seabrook set the world record for the longest free solo highline in Squamish, British Columbia, in 2015. Watch him walk a 200-foot line without safety equipment 750 feet above the ground.
Sunglasses
GearJunkie covers sunglasses and goggles for every sport and style. Stay up to date on trends and technology in eye protection with our news and reviews.
Try at Home, Buy Later With Tifosi Optics Prescription Sports Eyewear Program
Tifosi brings an industry-first with at-home try-ons for prescription performance sports eyewear frames. Test them yourself before committing.
Sunglasses for Retro Ski Vibes: Vallon Ski Aviators Review
Skiing in sunglasses is a very springtime vibe. Vallon hopes you’ll leave your goggles at home and use these aviators instead.
Pilot’s Sunglasses Survive Plane Crash: His Ombraz Stayed On When the Engine Gave Out
Not many sunglasses can claim they’ll stay on your face even if you’re in a plane crash — but this pilot’s Ombraz did.
Modular, Aviator Glacier Glasses Made From Plant Material: Zeal Selkirk Review
The first Zeal glacier sunglasses, the Selkirks, are made from plant-based resin and offer the easy option of removing the side panels and wearing the shades without them.
Kids Gear
Whether getting your grom on a balance bike or helping your teenager train for a triathlon, GearJunkie covers the gear and goods specific to kids.
The Best Kids’ Fitness Trackers of 2025
There is a select market of fitness trackers designed specifically to help kids get active in a fun and exciting way. Check out our list of the best ones!
How to Van Life With Kids: Tips and Gear for Family Life on the Road
Van life with kids isn’t easy, but it can be very rewarding. These are our first-hand experiences, tips, tricks, and gear recommendations.
All-in-One Hiking Daypack, Baby Carrier, Diaper Bag: Hatcher Pack Adventure Bag Review
The Hatcher Pack Adventure Diaper Bag is the diaper bag and baby carrier duo adventurous parents of small children have been looking for.
You Won’t Find a Warmer Kids’ Snowsuit: Reima Stavanger Snowsuit Review
The Reima Stavanger snowsuit is the one my 6-year-old daughter needs for rugged durability and insane warmth on wintry adventures.
Holiday
GearJunkie experts craft gift guides and gather holiday deals to help you shop for the special outdoorsperson in your life — or spoil yourself!
Outfit Every Winter Adventure With Gifts From The North Face
Shop high-quality outerwear designed to stand up to any winter weather and last for multiple seasons.
Find Active Footwear for Everyone on Your List
KEEN’s high-quality boots and shoes are built for the trail, tough work, and everything in between.
The Best Gifts for Hiking of 2024
Let our gear experts guide you to the right gift for the hiker in your life. These boots, poles, and other gear all earned our thumbs up.
Best Gifts for Cyclists: 17 Great Presents for Your Favorite Biker
Cycling is so #!@% gear-oriented. But don’t worry — we’ve curated the best gifts for cyclists from 4 decades of experience.
Olympics
Fugitive Olympic Snowboarder Accused of Moving Mountains of Cocaine, Orchestrating Murders
The former Olympic athlete has been named in a sprawling indictment along with 14 others, accusing them of running a murderous, multibillion-dollar drug-running operation.
Gold Medal Shoes: Winning Kicks of the Olympic Games
What shoes did Olympic gold medalists use to win sprints, triathlons, sport climbing, and other events? Read on to find out.
Janja Garnbret Is the Simone Biles of Climbing: You Need to See It to Believe It
Janja Garnbret earned a near-perfect score of 99.6 during a thrilling performance at Tuesday’s semifinals for Olympic bouldering.
Olympic History: Watch Texas Teen Scorch Speed Climbing World Record
Sam Watson, 18, scaled the 49-foot speed climbing wall in a blistering time of 4.75 seconds.
Outdoor Retailer
Industry heavyweights mingle with up-and-comers to show off their new offerings in apparel and equipment at the Outdoor Retailer trade shows.
Outdoor Retailer Merges Winter and Summer Market, Bumps Nov. Show
Pandemic restrictions, Utah politics, and economic realities have heavily impacted this ‘once-mighty’ tradeshow. Organizers aim to change that.
Ain’t Dead Yet: New Brands Breathe New Life Into Once-Mighty ‘OR’ Tradeshow
The hallmark trade show of the outdoor industry finally turns the proverbial page and sees new life with newcomers.
Editors’ Top Gear Picks From Outdoor Retailer 2024
See the GearJunkie editors’ favorite products from 2 full days scouring the Outdoor Retailer trade show floor.
Best in Show: Award-Winning Gear From Outdoor Retailer Summer 2024
The Outdoor Retailer Summer 2024 show was held in Salt Lake this week, and the bleeding edge of the Outdoor Industry’s gear and technology innovations were on full display. Here were our favorites.
Deals
GearJunkie’s bargain-hunters find the best deals on the outdoor gear you need. Sales from leading brands save you money so you can get out more.
Save Big With Gear Deals From Outdoor Research, Osprey, Duck Camp, and More
You can find plenty of steep discounts on outdoor gear these days, including top-notch products from reliable outfitters.
Save Big With Gear Deals From REI Co-op, Cotopaxi, Path Projects, and More
You can find plenty of steep discounts on outdoor gear these days, including top-notch products from reliable outfitters.
Save Some Green With Earth Day Deals From Goal Zero, Jackery, Lectric, and More
What to do for Earth Day? You can choose from discounted power stations, solar panels, and e-bikes — as well as options for doubling your impact on the environment.
Save 20-40% Off During the Columbia Whatever the Weather Sale
Stock up on Columbia shirts and pants with wicking and sun-blocking technology before the summer heat really kicks in.
Lifestyle
Carry a knife every day? Wear a parka to the bar? Where wilderness meets fashion, explore the outdoor lifestyle. We coined the term “lumbersexual.”
The Best Women’s Flannel Shirts of 2025
We found the best women’s flannel shirts for every budget including top picks from Patagonia, Stio, Outdoor Research and more.
The Best Men’s Flannels of 2025
We tested and reviewed the best men’s flannel shirts of 2025. From wool to organic cotton, we found the perfect pick for any budget.
A Lightweight Winter Companion: KUHL Spyfire Parka Review
This malleable and mid-length 800-fill down jacket for women is made for active winter days.
A Legacy Wool Flannel: Fjällräven Canada Shirt Review
The Fjällräven Canada Shirt is a workhorse women’s flannel made with longevity and sustainability in mind.
