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.
Pride of Paddlers: Man Who Visited 419 National Parks Debuts Documentary
Exploring the themes of mentorship, fatherhood, personal identity, and the outdoors, Mikah Meyer’s documentary film ‘Canyon Chorus’ follows five gay men on a journey down Desolation Canyon.
Dozens of Poached California Deer: 6 People Charged With Conspiracy
In one of the state’s biggest poaching cases in years, half a dozen people face felony charges for an alleged killing spree of deer.
Beyond Just Black: Leatherman Gives Skeletool a 4-Color Facelift
A classic time-tested multitool, the Skeletool now comes in four fresh colors that break the mold of Leatherman’s typical style.
REI Accelerates 16 Small Businesses That Share One Thing In Common
Many people of color have founded outdoor companies in the last few years. Here’s a chance to get to know some of these up-and-coming brands.
Biking
Check out news and gear reviews for mountain biking, bikepacking, road racing, winter fat biking, urban commuting, e-bikes, and more.
The Best Fat Tire Bikes of 2024
We found the best fat tire bikes of 2024 for every riding style and budget. Top picks include Ari, Kona, Revel, and more.
Kona Ouroboros Review: Gravel and Bikepacking Steed With a Mountain Bike Heart
The Kona Ouroboros blurs the lines between a gravel bike and hardtail mountain bike. The result? Incredible capability.
Walmart Gravel Bike Review: I Rode the Ozark Trail G.1 Explorer 300 Mountain Miles
Walmart’s Ozark Trail G.1 Explorer gravel bike costs less than $250. We tested this impressively affordable rig over 300 miles for this review.
Kona Bicycle Brand for Sale After Dropping Out of Sea Otter Bike Show
At one of cycling’s biggest events, the surprise shuttering of Kona’s booth kickstarted conversations about what the industry downturn might mean.
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.
Mother’s Day Gifts for Moms Who Hike
Mother’s Day is on the horizon — if you’re looking for something cool, useful, and unique to get the mom(s) in your life, look no further.
Find Your Sea to Summit Sleep System and Bring On the ZZZs: (Gear)icatures
Betty the Backpacker always gets the best ZZZs with the Sea to Summit Sleep System.
The Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads of 2024
We tested and review the best sleeping pads for backpacking in 2024. Whether you need an ultralight mat or more insulation, we’ve got it.
The Best Gluten-Free Freeze Dried Meals: Camp Food for Everyone
Increased awareness of gluten-free diets makes backpacking a little easier — and a lot more delicious — for gluten-free eaters.
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.
LGBTQ+ Forest Ranger Who Rescued Others Dies in Denali National Park
Robbi Mecus, a longtime climber and advocate for LGBTQ inclusion, died after a 1,000-foot fall in Denali National Park. Her partner sustained serious injuries.
Mallory’s Last Words: Haunting Letters From Fateful 1924 Everest Expedition Now Online
George Mallory’s last words, including his final letter to his wife, Ruth, are now available to read online through his alma mater.
Arctic Expeditions Ain’t What They Used to Be: Lonnie Dupre’s Gear Tell-All
When polar explorer Lonnie Dupre is on the back of a dogsled, kayaking through glacial ice, or making a first winter ascent on an Alaskan peak, the need for warm, fast-drying, weatherproof gear is a matter of life or death.
Finally, a Climbing Shoe for Most of Us: Evolv V6 Review
The Evolv V6 has the attributes that help intermediate climbers advance. It’s the bouldering and sport climbing shoe for most of us.
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 Kettlebells of 2024
While not as well-known as dumbbells and barbells, kettlebell weights are one of the most versatile and (dare we say it) fun pieces of workout equipment you’ll find. Our CrossFit-loving expert found the best kettlebells of 2024.
What the Ruck? 5 Rucking Tips to Get Started Walking Heavy
This beginner rucking explainer covers what rucking is, how to get started, what gear (if any) you need, and other helpful tips.
The Best Sports Bras of 2024
Sports bras are a necessity for action but can also be a culprit for pain. We found the best options for all types of pairs from Athleta to SheFit and more.
The Best Running Shorts of 2024
From sunny beaches to high alpine trails, our experts evaluated the best men’s running shorts for fit, comfort, mobility, moisture-wicking, 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.
Beyond Just Black: Leatherman Gives Skeletool a 4-Color Facelift
A classic time-tested multitool, the Skeletool now comes in four fresh colors that break the mold of Leatherman’s typical style.
Modern Shilin Cutter: Fox Knives ‘Chilin’ Review
Sometimes you need to step outside the norm to discover things better suited to your needs. The Shilin Cutter-inspired Fox Knives Chilin is a prime example.
Inside the Design Process of CRKT Knives
We caught up with the designers of seven CRKT knives to learn about their design process and who they built each product for.
Which CRKT Knife Should You Buy?
From survivalists, to green thumbs, to muralist and anglers, CRKT has likely crafted the perfect blade for you.
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.
The Best Car Scratch Removers of 2024
The best car scratch removers can take care of many of those little blemishes with a little know-how and elbow grease. Here are our favorites.
‘Over-the-Top’ Mountain Bike Trail-Builder UTV: Brandon Semenuk Gets Custom Polaris
Watch Brandon Semenuk use a custom-built Polaris XPEDITION to access, build, and ride trails in the redwoods of Northern California.
Lots More Tuscadero Pink Jeeps, While Gladiator Gets Electrified
Tuscadero pink paint is available on both 2024 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator. For 2025, Gladiator also gets the 4xe plug-in hybrid treatment.
Always Safe, but a Dash of Sideways Fun: Electric Volvo EX30 Winter Testing
I drove the electric 2025 Volvo EX30 in northern Sweden’s winter wonderland. Both the RWD and AWD impressed, but the AWD induced the biggest smiles.
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.
Iconic Overland Camper Company EarthCruiser Out of Business
Overland camper builder EarthCruiser is shutting its doors. Here’s what we know so far.
Stylish SoCal Van Life: Vanspeed Debuts California Coast Model
The Vanspeed California Coast is built on a Sprinter 144 chassis with a flexible, large adventure gear-carrying layout — and it’s beach-ready.
Reserve Now: These National Parks Require Timed Entry Reservations for 2024
Sick of crowds? Timed entry at National Parks could be the solution. Four major parks will use the system in 2024, with several others limiting access to popular destinations within the parks.
2024 Camp Guide: Your Destination for All Things Camping From Backcountry
Let Backcountry be your guide to finding the camping gear that’s right for your style of sleeping outside.
Outdoor
Outdoor activities like hiking, backpacking, camping, hunting, and fishing are core to GearJunkie’s coverage. Gear up and get out on your adventures.
Mother’s Day Gifts for Moms Who Hike
Mother’s Day is on the horizon — if you’re looking for something cool, useful, and unique to get the mom(s) in your life, look no further.
Our Favorite Outdoor Gifts for Mom
Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 14. Show Mom you care with these outdoor gift ideas.
Environmental Groups: ‘No Doubt’ a Trump Win Would Undo Conservation Victories
President Joe Biden’s White House has enacted many conservation wins for the American wilderness. But environmentalists say none of them are safe from reversal.
Mother’s Day Gifts for Moms Who Hunt
Sure, you could get Mom another coffee mug or bath bomb, or you could get her a Mother’s Day gift she’ll really love when hunting season rolls around.
Technology
Capture your trip, stay in touch, and track your training. We cover the best tech products including cameras, beacons, smartwatches, apps, and more.
The Best Dog GPS Trackers of 2024
We tested the best dog GPS trackers of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Fi, Garmin, and more!
The Best Power Banks of 2024
Looking for the best power bank? Our team of experts tested 11 of the best power banks of 2024 to help you decide which model is right for your needs and budget.
Acebeam Terminator M1 Review: Flashlight & Laser in One Small Package
Packing both LED and LEP ‘white laser’ lighting in a single package, the Acebeam Terminator M1 goes from flashlight to lightsaber in an instant.
Super Red, Rarely Dead: Fenix HM75R Headlamp Review
The Fenix HM75R packs multiple light colors, incredible battery life, and excellent range into a headlamp meant for hard, long use.
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.
The Best Power Banks of 2024
Looking for the best power bank? Our team of experts tested 11 of the best power banks of 2024 to help you decide which model is right for your needs and budget.
Yosemite Sweepstakes! Score Free Trip This National Park Week From MTN Dew, Vail Resorts
In celebration of National Parks Week, the neon-green soda brand MTN Dew is hosting a sweepstakes giving away trips to Yosemite and several other spectacular destinations.
Low-Key Looks, High-Key Functionality: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L Review
We thoroughly tested the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L in a variety of situations, environments, and load-outs, and it carried all with ease.
The Best Backpacks of 2024
A backpack isn’t just the bag on your back — it’s a mobile home, a traveling office, and a ticket to see the world. After shouldering the best — along with the rest — we’ve found the greatest backpacks for any task.
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.
Mother’s Day Gifts for Moms Who Hunt
Sure, you could get Mom another coffee mug or bath bomb, or you could get her a Mother’s Day gift she’ll really love when hunting season rolls around.
Dozens of Poached California Deer: 6 People Charged With Conspiracy
In one of the state’s biggest poaching cases in years, half a dozen people face felony charges for an alleged killing spree of deer.
How to Find Morel Mushrooms: Foraging 101
Want to find your own morel mushrooms? These tips and tricks will help you gather heaps of morels.
Scientists Suggest First Link Between Always-Fatal Deer Disease CWD and Human Deaths
An article published in Volume 102 of ‘Neurology’ suggests a possible link to CWD as a contributing factor in the deaths of two humans.
Packs
From hydration daypacks for the ultramarathoner to 100L porteurs for arctic expeditions, GearJunkie covers packs and luggage for every adventure.
Pesky PFAS: How One Bad Zipper Proves the PFC Problem
Outdoor gear manufacturers keep pushing claims of PFC- and PFAS-free. But that has proven more difficult than advertised.
Low-Key Looks, High-Key Functionality: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L Review
We thoroughly tested the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L in a variety of situations, environments, and load-outs, and it carried all with ease.
The Best Backpacks of 2024
A backpack isn’t just the bag on your back — it’s a mobile home, a traveling office, and a ticket to see the world. After shouldering the best — along with the rest — we’ve found the greatest backpacks for any task.
The Best Carry-On Luggage of 2024
Carry-on luggage comes in a variety of styles, from the hardshell classics to soft-sided, duffel bags. Whether you value features like external pockets or 360-spinner wheels, internal compression, or TSA-approved locks, we’ve got you covered with our wide selection of the best carry-on luggage of 2023.
Paddling
From serene backwater paddles to surfing epic curls, GearJunkie covers watercraft, accessories, and adventure from lakes and rivers to ocean surf.
Dagger Launches ‘Indra’ Whitewater Kayak: Designed for Confidence-Inspiring Down-River Play
The Dagger Indra might just be the forgiving and playful, one-boat quiver, whitewater kayak you’ve been looking for.
The Best Water Shoes of 2024
We tested the best water shoes of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Astral, Xero, NRS, and more!
Pride of Paddlers: Man Who Visited 419 National Parks Debuts Documentary
Exploring the themes of mentorship, fatherhood, personal identity, and the outdoors, Mikah Meyer’s documentary film ‘Canyon Chorus’ follows five gay men on a journey down Desolation Canyon.
The Best Dog Life Jackets of 2024
Dogs have an entire swimming style named after them. But just because they love the water doesn’t mean they don’t need a dog life jacket to keep them safe.
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.
The Best Men’s Belts of 2024
We tested nine of the best men’s belts in 2024 to help you find the right model to suit your needs and meet your budget.
From Trail to Treadmill, Fishnet Base Layers Are Best: Brynje Thermo Review
With an old classic coming back into vogue, we take a hard look at Brynje mesh wool base layers to see how they fared on a bike, on the trail, and with a pack.
The Best Down Jackets of 2024
We found the best down jackets of 2024. From ultralight backpacking jackets to budget-friendly everyday puffy jackets, we’ve got you covered.
The Best Fishing Waders of 2024
Waders allow you to stay comfortable while fishing, extending the fishing season to year-round possibilities. We tested the leading fishing waders to find the best of 2024.
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 Best Running Shoes of 2024
We tested the best running shoes of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include HOKA, Brooks, and more!
The Best Flip-Flops for Women of 2024
We tested the best flip-flops for women of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Olukai, Teva, HOKA Chaco, and more!
The Best Water Shoes of 2024
We tested the best water shoes of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Astral, Xero, NRS, and more!
The Best Water Shoes for Women of 2024
We tested the best camera bags with options for every budget. Top picks include Salomon, Astral, Merrell, 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.
3 Days, No Sleep: Wisconsinite Sets FKT on ‘North Country’ Trail
After setting an FKT on the Superior Hiking Trail in 2023, Andrea Larson set her sights on the Northern Country Scenic Trail, Wisconsin Section — and she finished it in record time.
The Best Running Headphones of 2024
We tested and ranked the best running headphones of 2024, including pairs from Beats, SoundCore, and JBL.
The Best Running Hydration Packs & Vests of 2024
We tested the best running hydration packs and vests of 2024, including top picks from Salomon, Nathan Sports, Arc’teryx, and more.
The Best Running Shorts of 2024
From sunny beaches to high alpine trails, our experts evaluated the best men’s running shorts for fit, comfort, mobility, moisture-wicking, and more.
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 Backpacking Water Filters of 2024
We tested the best backpacking water filters and purifiers for your next trip into the great outdoors.
The Best Running Hydration Packs & Vests of 2024
We tested the best running hydration packs and vests of 2024, including top picks from Salomon, Nathan Sports, Arc’teryx, and more.
The Best Camping Stoves of 2024
We tested the best camping stoves from Coleman, Camp Chef, Primus, and more for this review. Check it out to see how each performs and which stove came out on top.
The Best Coolers of 2024
We tested the best hard coolers of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include RTIC, YETI, and more!
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.
Today Only! ‘Better With Friends’ Sale Offers Steep Discounts on Ombraz, BioLite, and More
Get ready for the summer sun with a killer deal from Ombraz, a popular maker of athletic sunglasses for whatever outdoor sport rocks your boat.
Pit Viper Exciters: Thru-Hiker Tested, Hurricane Approved
Pit Viper sunglasses have legions of followers due to their style. But I chose the Exciters for durability, comfort, and radical swagger.
The Best Fishing Sunglasses of 2024
Sunglasses can make or break your success on the water. Without the right pair of glasses, you may not be able to get the job done.
’80s Style, Modern Tech: Costa Grand Catalina Relaunch Channels Young Tom Cruise Vibes
Classic style meets modern tech with the upgraded relaunch of the Grand Catalina frame from Costa Del Mar.
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 Baby Carriers for Hiking in 2024
Make hiking fun for the whole family — even toddlers and babies! These are the best baby and child carriers for maximum comfort, value, and safety.
The Best Kids’ Fitness Trackers of 2024
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!
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!
Mother’s Day Gifts for Moms Who Hunt
Sure, you could get Mom another coffee mug or bath bomb, or you could get her a Mother’s Day gift she’ll really love when hunting season rolls around.
Yosemite Sweepstakes! Score Free Trip This National Park Week From MTN Dew, Vail Resorts
In celebration of National Parks Week, the neon-green soda brand MTN Dew is hosting a sweepstakes giving away trips to Yosemite and several other spectacular destinations.
Get Outside, Get Cooking: GearJunkie’s Guide to a Dialed Camp Kitchen
Take your camp cooking to the next level with GearJunkie’s ultimate guide to tips, tricks, gear, systems, recipes, and more.
Cut the Garbage Gifts: Go Bespoke With Gerber Custom
To learn more about Gerber’s Custom offerings, we asked some of our staffers to make their own knives and tools.
Olympics
Archery Leader and Innovator Jim Easton Dies at 88
The son of archery innovator Doug Easton, Jim expanded the family legacy by diversifying aluminum sports equipment and leading the World Archery Federation.
Win an Olympic E-Medal Without Leaving Your Couch: IOC Launches ‘Esports’ Games
The Olympic (video) Games? Exactly, says one of the world’s most esteemed sports organizers.
You Could Be in the 2028 Olympics: US Team Opens Track Cycling Test to Public
The Search for Speed initiative is all about discovering talent hiding in L.A.’s diverse communities for the 2028 Track Cycling Olympic Team.
US Freeski Olympian Alex Hall Answers GearJunkie’s Burning Questions
Ever wonder how professional skiers make it big? How about how to train for big air? Check out our interview with gold medalist Alex Hall.
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 2023 Winter Show: GearJunkie’s Top 10 Standout Products From the Floor
Outdoor Retailer’s 2023 winter show took place in Salt Lake City last week — many brands were absent, but those present brought their A-game. Here are our favorite products from the showroom floor.
Future Gear: Exciting New Products for 2023 and Beyond
The latest, greatest, and most innovative gear from Outdoor Retailer Summer 2023 to look out for this year and beyond.
Best in Show: Award-Winning Gear From Outdoor Retailer Summer 2023
In the heart of Salt Lake City, brands convened for a smaller-than-usual Outdoor Retailer exhibition, but still jam-packed with innovative outdoor gear.
Best in Show Gear: Editor Picks From Outdoor Retailer Winter 2023
Outdoor Retailer’s Salt Lake City homecoming may have been smaller than usual, but brands big and small still wowed us with the latest gear.
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.
Oru Kayaks, Escape Camper Vans, Vail Resorts Epic Pass, and More Great Deals
This week’s deals will get you outside! Check out a sweet lineup of discounts on outdoor experiences, along with cool stuff to use along the way.
REI Outlet, Sierra, Wiley X, and More Stellar Outdoor Gear Deals
From mega deals at REI to a sweet giveaway lottery from BUFF, browse our weekly selection of the outdoor industry’s coolest offers and discounts.
Today Only! ‘Better With Friends’ Sale Offers Steep Discounts on Ombraz, BioLite, and More
Get ready for the summer sun with a killer deal from Ombraz, a popular maker of athletic sunglasses for whatever outdoor sport rocks your boat.
Patagonia, Gerber, Smartwool, and More Great Outdoor Gear Deals
Outdoor gear doesn’t always come cheap, but when it does, you’ll find it right here in our Weekly Deals column.
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 Men’s Belts of 2024
We tested nine of the best men’s belts in 2024 to help you find the right model to suit your needs and meet your budget.
Like Wearing a Sleeping Bag: Columbia Pike Lake II Long Winter Jacket Review
With hip design and superior warmth, the Columbia Pike Lake II Long winter jacket is like wearing a sleeping bag but with style.
The Best Sun Hats of 2024
We tested the sun hats of 2024 with options for every activity and budget. Top picks include Patagonia, Tilley, Columbia, and more!
The Best Men’s Flannels of 2024
We tested and reviewed the best men’s flannel shirts of 2024. From wool to organic cotton, we found the perfect pick for any budget.