56 articles 20 comments

Billy Brown

Title: Contributor
Email: bbrown028@gmail.com
Location (City & State): Sacramento, CA
Pronouns: He/Him

Expertise

Topics of Expertise: Trail Running, Fitness, CrossFit, Climbing, Hiking, Mountaineering, Gear, Gear…and More Gear
Years in This Expertise: 15
Number Of Products & Number Of Hours Expert Has Tested: Both are countless. Hundreds, if not thousands.

Experience

Billy Brown is a freelance writer and the Gear Editor at BarBend.com. In addition to writing and editing for GearJunkie, he has been covering gear, fitness, and the outdoors for publications like Wired, Men’s Journal, Outside, Backpacker, and Esquire. Based in Sacramento, California, Brown is a competitive CrossFitter and powerlifter and an avid hiker and trail runner.

I started writing as a way to make my trail running buddies laugh. My personal blog led to a newspaper stint, which led to web and print work, culminating in a short but chaotic television stint. I’m obsessed with all kinds of gear, from snowboards and hiking boots to laptops and LEGOs. So I found a way to get paid for my obsession.

Personal Interests: CrossFit, snowboarding, running, rare books, antique typewriters, and world travel.

The Best Minimalist Wallets of 2023

Forgo the bulk and up your EDC game with the best minimalist wallets available.

Written by Billy Brown September 15, 2023

The Best CrossFit Shoes of 2023

Despite its intense reputation, CrossFit is a sport that’s accessible for people of all shapes, sizes, and skill levels, and that goes for the footwear,…

Written by Billy Brown and Paul Mandell September 13, 2023

The Best Camping Cots of 2023

A camping cot can keep you warm, elevated, and comfortable outdoors. Here are the best camping cots currently on the market.

Written by Billy Brown, Justin La Vigne and Meghan LaHatte August 22, 2023

Don’t Feel Like a Dumbbell: Gym Etiquette & Tips for Beginners

Starting a new fitness habit can be an intimidating prospect. Here are a few ways to overcome your nervousness and hit the gym.

Written by Billy Brown August 21, 2023

The Best Emergency Radios of 2023

From solar-powered to elbow grease, we’ve found the best emergency radios of 2023.

Written by Billy Brown and Tim Newcomb August 21, 2023

The Best SUV Tires of 2023

Whether you’re looking to tighten up your cornering or take your ride off the road, we’ve got the best SUV tire recommendations for you.

Written by Billy Brown June 14, 2023

The Best Hitch Bike Racks of 2023

We reviewed the best hitch bike racks for 2023 with options for every budget. Top picks include Thule, RockyMounts, and more.

Written by Billy Brown & Morgan Tilton May 22, 2023

The Best Gym Shorts for Men in 2023

Our fitness expert found the best gym shorts for men to fit every budget and workout. Get ready to sweat.

Written by Billy Brown and Paul Mandell May 15, 2023

The Best Compasses of 2023

Whether hiking, traveling off-grid, or backpacking, having a reliable compass available can help ensure that you’ll always find true north.

Written by Billy Brown and Austin Beck-Doss April 21, 2023

The Best Men’s Wool Sweaters of 2023

From high-performance technical fleece to cushy après and style pieces, the wool sweater has become a must-have in every guy’s winter wardrobe. Check out our…

Written by Billy Brown February 15, 2023

The Best Mountain Bike Grips of 2023

We tested the best mountain bike grips of 2023 with options for every budget. Top picks include ODI, DMR, Race Face, and more.

Written by Billy Brown and Morgan Tilton February 09, 2023

The Best Dog Backpacks of 2023

Get your furry friend ready to hit the trail with the best dog backpacks. From big gear haulers to sleek saddlebags, there’s something for every…

Written by Billy Brown February 07, 2023

The Best Camping Pillows of 2023

A camping pillow is both a luxury and an easy, lightweight addition to your pack. Here are the best camping pillows currently on the market.

Written by Billy Brown February 07, 2023

The Best Bike Pumps of 2023

Our experts found and tested the best bike pumps of 2021. Whether for road riding, mountain biking, or fat biking, we’ve got you covered.

Written by Billy Brown February 01, 2023

The Best Bike Trainers of 2023

When weather or timing just don’t allow for an outdoor training session, bike trainers give you the inside option. Here are the best bike trainers…

Written by Chelsey Magness & Billy Brown January 31, 2023

The Best Dumbbells of 2022

We tested the best dumbbells of 2022 with options for every budget and workout. Top picks include Rogue Fitness, NordicTrack, and more!

Written by Billy Brown February 28, 2022

Electric All-Terrain Skateboard Review: Evolve Hadean Carbon Is My New Favorite Way to Commute

Evolve’s high-powered skateboards blur the line between toy and commuter vehicle. We tested the Evolve Hadean Electric skateboard to see just how great they are.

Written by Billy Brown January 25, 2022

The Best Camera Backpacks of 2022

We tested the best camera backpacks of 2022 with options for every budget. Top picks include Lowepro, Peak Design, and more!

Written by Billy Brown and Morgan Tilton January 11, 2022

Effortless Slip-On CrossFit Shoe: Nike Metcon 6 FlyEase Review

If you’ve spent any time in a CrossFit box (aka gym), you know Nike Metcons. Named after the common high-intensity metabolic conditioning workouts that make…

Written by Billy Brown January 26, 2021

The Best Kettlebells of 2021

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…

Written by Billy Brown January 19, 2021

The Best Snowboard Bindings of 2021

Bindings are a vital piece of gear that can make or break your time on the mountain. We’ve got the best of the year lined…

Written by Billy Brown December 30, 2020

The Best Running Socks of 2021

After months spent pounding the pavement, we found the best running socks of 2021.

Written by Billy Brown December 28, 2020

The Best CrossFit Jump Ropes of 2021

Finally dial in those double-unders at the gym with the perfect rope. To help you choose wisely, we looked around and found the best CrossFit…

Written by Billy Brown December 18, 2020

The Best Workout Shoes for the Gym in 2020

Our expert advice and buyer’s guide will help you find the best shoes for hitting the gym. Whether you’re looking for a shoe for a…

Written by Billy Brown February 11, 2020

From Runner to Powerlifter: 5 Tips for Going From Gazelle to Gorilla

In January 2019, I made the switch from CrossFit to powerlifting. Nine months later, I broke three records in my first competition. This is how…

Written by Billy Brown January 29, 2020

MSR Guardian Purifier – Last One You’ll Ever Need

The MSR Guardian is one of the finest water filters made with a price to match. This review puts it to the test in British…

Written by Billy Brown August 28, 2015

Great White Sharks Surround SUP’ers on California Coast

File under “holy crap!” SUP boarders keep cool while filming great white sharks up close.

Written by Billy Brown July 27, 2015

A Harrowing Night In: 10 Great Survival Movies Online

Living through a survival situation generally sucks. Watching someone else do it? A great night of entertainment.

Written by Billy Brown July 24, 2015

Lululemon ‘Yoga Beer’ Is Now A Real Thing

Beer and yoga pants? Lululemon says “yes” with a partnership with Stanley Park Brewing.

Written by Billy Brown July 17, 2015

Recon Survival Tool: Combination Hatchet, Saw, Machete & Zombie-Killer

Dig a hole, cut wood, or fight off undead attackers.

Written by Billy Brown July 07, 2015