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.
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.
Meet the Lunar Cruiser: NASA Taps Toyota for Special Moon Build
In development since 2019 by Toyota and Japan’s space agency, the lunar campervan will now be used in a moon mission with NASA.
Tune Your Engine, Dial Your Suspension, Find Quicker Lines: KTM/Husqvarna ‘CUO’
The KTM and Husqvarna CUO provides data and assistance formerly reserved for professional racers.
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.
Biking
Check out news and gear reviews for mountain biking, bikepacking, road racing, winter fat biking, urban commuting, e-bikes, and more.
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.
Shimano Groupset Hierarchy Explained: Mountain Biking, Road Cycling, and Gravel
Whether evaluating a new bike or planning to upgrade one you already own, you’ll need to understand the various component specs.
The Best Gravel Bike Shoes of 2024
Steering your bike down chunky backroads in your future? Saddle up with one of the best gravel shoes on the market today.
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.
Ditch the Chair, Pack a Camp Stool: Grand Trunk Compass 360 First Look Review
GearJunkie first encountered Grand Trunk’s Compass 360 UC Stool at OR in 2023 — we’ve been eagerly waiting to get our hands on these nifty packable, lightweight camp stools ever since.
The Best Fire Pits of 2024
From camping in rugged terrain to chilling in the backyard, here are our top picks for the best fire pits of 2024.
Camp for Free on Public Land and Beyond: ‘Dispersed Camping’ 101
No campground, just a spot on the side of the road on public land — dispersed camping is free, fun, and easier than you might expect.
‘Kosmos’ All-Inclusive Stargazing Resort Breaks Ground Near Great Sand Dunes National Park
Kosmos luxury glamping resort just broke ground in the San Luis Valley of Colorado, with plans to install a full observatory, spa, and stargazing villas — for $700 to $1,200 per night.
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.
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.
Kick Off Camping: Free Entry at All National Parks on April 20
National Parks Week kicks off with a free entry day, and extends to April 28 with events, themed days, and volunteer opportunities.
Fitness
We cover fitness, nutrition, training, wellness, and health with a focus on gear, tips, and techniques to maximize performance in your outdoor pursuits.
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.
The Best Trail Running Shoes for Women in 2024
From muddy local trails to epic mountain runs, we’ve found the best trail running shoes for women.
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.
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.
Knife Steel Guide: Common Blade Metals Explained
We looked at common steels used by popular knife brands to help you select the right material for your blade.
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.
Act Now if You Want a Defender OCTA: V8 Twin-Turbo Hybrid Power, Crazy Suspension
The most luxurious and capable Defender ever, the OCTA, will be fully revealed this summer, and likely fully presold for 2025.
Ford Transit Trail Recall ‘Fix’ Removes One of the Van’s Main Features
Tires on the Transit Trail van can rub. Ford’s fix is to replace them with smaller, less durable tires.
Ram CEO Says ‘Tear It Up’: Cringeworthy Off-Road Truck Ad Moment
Is Ram Trucks CEO saying “tear it up” to his stunt driver in the reveal video for the RHO pickup the right attitude to promote?
Iconic Overland Camper Company EarthCruiser Out of Business
Overland camper builder EarthCruiser is shutting its doors. Here’s what we know so far.
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.
Make Washington Grizzly Again: NPS Will Reintroduce Bears to Northern Cascades
After decades of extirpation, the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have announced plans to start reintroducing grizzly bears to Washington’s Northern Cascades.
Beavers Can Do Better: Oregon Hand Crew Builds Dams to Attract Beavers for Habitat Health
One crew of volunteers is building natural dam ‘replicas’ to attract beavers who will build on what the people started, and stick around to improve the ecosystem.
Ditch the Chair, Pack a Camp Stool: Grand Trunk Compass 360 First Look Review
GearJunkie first encountered Grand Trunk’s Compass 360 UC Stool at OR in 2023 — we’ve been eagerly waiting to get our hands on these nifty packable, lightweight camp stools ever since.
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.
Technology
Capture your trip, stay in touch, and track your training. We cover the best tech products including cameras, beacons, smartwatches, apps, and more.
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.
The Best Running Headphones of 2024
We tested and ranked the best running headphones of 2024, including pairs from Beats, SoundCore, and JBL.
Best 360 Action Camera Yet: Insta360 X4 Spherical Review
The Insta360 X4 spherical camera allows you to capture video and photos in a full 360 degrees. It has a few new features that blow the previous X3 and competitors away.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
WY Judge Throws the Book at Shed Antler Poacher
Jonathan Lee Cox faces hefty fines and possible jail time after allegedly illegally collecting and transporting more than $18,000 worth of shed antlers.
Streamlined and Refined: Holosun HE508T-GR X2 Review
The rugged, failsafe Holosun HE508T X2 can stand up to the rigors of the turkey woods and eliminate the guesswork when it’s time to pull the trigger.
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.
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.
Making It Look Way Too Easy: Dane Jackson Delivers in 2023 Highlight Reel
Dane Jackson continues to blow minds with his whitewater kayaking mastery and boundary pushing. Check out his 2023 highlight reel.
Kick Off Camping: Free Entry at All National Parks on April 20
National Parks Week kicks off with a free entry day, and extends to April 28 with events, themed days, and volunteer opportunities.
The Best Kayaks for Beginners in 2024
The sport of recreational kayaking has been rapidly growing over the past several years, and there are hundreds of kayak options on the market. Here are the best kayaks and the gear you need to get started.
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 Insulated Jackets of 2024
We tested the best synthetic insulated jackets of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Arc’teryx, Patagonia, and more.
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.
The Best Hiking Pants for Women in 2024
After months on the trail, we found the best hiking pants for women. Pick a pair and get ready for adventure.
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.
Footwear
From trail-running shoes to winter boots, waterproof hikers, fishing waders, and minimalist and barefoot shoes, we cover footwear from pavement to peak.
Legit Running Shoes Made From Castor Beans, Sugar Cane & Cornstarch: Hylo Impact Review
The Hylo Impact boasts biodegradable and sustainable alternatives to traditional materials that’s recyclable to boot. But how does it run?
The Most Anticipated Trail Super Shoe of the Year: Adidas TERREX Agravic Speed Ultra Review
The same world-class speed that made adidas’s road shoes a winner now hits the trail in the Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra.
Best Sandals for Women of 2024
Free your feet and the rest will follow. From trail to town and everything in between, we found the best sandals for women.
The Best Hiking Shoes for Women of 2024
We hit the trail and traveled over everything from ice to sand to find the best hiking shoes for women. Whether you’re looking to go on short treks or weekend-long adventures, we’ve got you covered with women’s hiking shoes for every budget.
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!
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.
Best Gifts for Cyclists: 16 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
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.
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.
Buy Skis, Pay What You Can: Coalition Snow ‘Community Care Sale’
The brand Coalition is making an effort through its Community Care Sale to make sure the cost of skis and snowboards is truly accessible.
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 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.
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.
Winter Base: Let Smartwool Performance Apparel Keep You Warm & Dry
Smartwool taps the power of wool for head-to-toe apparel that can keep you warm and dry through winter activities.
