Reviews

A Mountain Bike for Cross-Country & Bikepacking? Salsa Blackthorn C GX Transmission Review

The Salsa Blackthorn 125 mountain bike strikes a balance of capable trail rider, downhill ripper, and bikepacking adventurer — though it won’t replace a stable…

Written by Bergen Tjossem August 06, 2025

This Knife Has Barely Changed in 135 Years: Opinel No.08 Folding Knife Review

The Opinel No.08 creates an art form out of simplicity, showing you don’t need computer-aided design to create a classic folding knife that’s comfortable to…

Written by Matt Jancer August 06, 2025

One Pair, Double Duty: REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants Review

Discover the versatility of REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Hiking Pants: easy conversion from pants to shorts in seconds.

Written by Constance Mahoney August 05, 2025

From Valet to Dirt, 3-Row Family Hauler Levels Up: 2026 Hyundai Palisade Review

We took the luxury Calligraphy and new, off-road–focused XRT Pro trim 2026 Hyundai Palisade for a spin in wine country. We found impressive three-row value.

Written by Robin Warner August 05, 2025

Big, Beautiful, Bold Dive Watch: Christopher Ward Trident Reef 44mm Review

The Christopher Ward Trident Reef 44mm reviewed here is a bold timepiece for summer.

Written by Sean McCoy August 05, 2025

This Pack Made Packrafting the Arctic Possible: Seek Outside Unaweep 6300 Review

The Seek Outside Unaweep 6300 is a huge-volume pack with a light footprint, made for hauling heavy loads deep into the backcountry. Here’s how it…

Written by Nick Belcaster August 04, 2025

First Look: Hoka Mafate 5 Offers Plush Ride for Distance on Trails

The Hoka Mafate 5 reviewed here is a protective, capable shoe for long-distance trail running. This was my first run in it.

Written by Sean McCoy August 01, 2025

Comfortable Urban Style Built for Mountain Adventures: Seniq Tectonic Women’s Pant Review

The Seniq Tectonic Pants are built for activity, and are a great pair of women’s-specific hiking pants from a new women’s-specific outdoor brand.

Written by Mary Beth Skylis August 01, 2025

A ‘Spa on Wheels’ That Needs a Digital Detox: 2025 Lincoln Navigator Review

After a week spent with the 2025 Lincoln Navigator around Los Angeles, I came away relaxed, but over the digital overlords.

Written by Michael Van Runkle July 31, 2025

Folding Chef Knife for the Backcountry Kitchen: Messermeister Adventure Chef Knife Review

This affordable folding chef’s knife offers kitchen-grade cutlery at the campsite without a pack-space penalty.

Written by Justin Park July 31, 2025

Cadillac Pushes Edge of Performance With 2026 Lyriq-V

I spent some time in the 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V and experienced its Jekyll-and-Hyde personality.

Written by Paul Eisenstein July 30, 2025

Simplicity That Delivers: Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Women’s Base Layers Review

Flattering and odor resistant, the cold-weather Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Crew Top and Bottoms are high-quality women’s base layers.

Written by Heather Balogh Rochfort July 29, 2025

The Best Backpacks for Big-Game Hunting of 2025

We tested and researched the best backpacks for hunting deer, elk, and big game. These top hunting packs shone through.

Written by Sean McCoy July 28, 2025

Review: Crankin’ In Whoppers With the KastKing Megatron 200

The KastKing Megatron 200 baitcasting reel promised big-bass performance on a budget. After months of casting crankbaits and swimbaits, here’s how it held up to…

Written by Wesley Littlefield July 28, 2025

Flylow Super D Ski Gloves Review: Cozy, Waterproof, and Very Comfortable

Time-tested, the Flylow Super D Ski Gloves are malleable, cozy, warm, weather resistant, and sustainable — all at a lower price point.

Written by Morgan Tilton July 28, 2025

Lightweight, Durable, Backcountry-Ready: Flylow Stash Men’s Ski Bib Review

Lightweight and durable, the three-layer Flylow Stash Men’s Ski Bibs are packed with backcountry-specific features and are perfect for powder days.

Written by Eric Phillips July 25, 2025

Quick Build Equals Lower Price: Geotrek Flatiron Campervan Review

GeoTrek is a licensed Mercedes Sprinter dealer that builds campervans fast, passing much of the savings onto its customers. We tested its Flatiron Sprinter build.

Written by Will Brendza July 25, 2025

Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Kifaru’s Mesa Harness Is Forgettable in the Best Way

Kifaru’s Mesa Harness isn’t flashy, but it delivers all-day comfort and structure for your bino harness or chest rig without the bulk or a hefty…

Written by Adam Moore July 25, 2025

Burly, Stylish, Functional: Mountain Hardwear Women’s Boundary Ridge GORE-TEX Ski Jacket Review

The Mountain Hardwear Boundary Ridge GORE-TEX women’s ski jacket delivers serious weather protection and a flattering fit.

Written by Heather Balogh Rochfort July 25, 2025

Camp Grinder for Casual Coffee Connoisseurs: MiiR New Standard Review

For camping adventures where freshly ground coffee matters, the MiiR New Standard Hand Grinder offers six grind sizes and a smooth action in a compact…

Written by Courtney Holden July 25, 2025

Lowered Truck With Lifted Price: 2025 Ford Maverick Lobo Review

With a nearly doubled price tag, the 2025 Ford Maverick Lobo lowered street truck needs to deliver on all fronts, and it falls short.

Written by Michael Van Runkle July 24, 2025

The Best Tactical Backpacks of 2025

Check out our list of the best tactical backpacks of 2025, including options from Mystery Ranch, 5.11, and more!

Written by Nick LeFort July 24, 2025

My Favorite YETI Product, Nearly 10 Years Strong: Rambler One-Gallon Jug Review

First reviewed in 2017, the Rambler One-Gallon Jug still stands atop the YETI mountain as the brand’s most useful, reliable product to date.

Written by Adam Ruggiero July 24, 2025

The Best Archery Release Aids for Bowhunting of 2025

Archery release aids are an indispensable tool for all but the most traditional bowhunters. Here we lay out the best releases of 2025.

Written by Josh Kirchner and Morgan Nowels July 24, 2025

Stay Cozy on a Budget: REI Co-op Trailmade Jacket Review

If you need a solid midweight fleece for camping, hiking, or traveling, the REI Co-op Trailmade Fleece is as warm as it is soft, and…

Written by Will Brendza July 23, 2025

The Viral Fishing Gadget That Took Over ICAST 2025: DHUKR Human Hook Removal Tool

You don’t head out on a fishing trip expecting to perform first aid. But, things happen. The DHUKR hook removal tool ensures you’re prepared.

Written by Morgan Nowels July 23, 2025

2025 Audi S3 Review: Subcompact, But Not Substandard

More power, a nicer interior, and one of the best parts of the RS. Audi has upgraded the 2025 S3, and we’re happy to put…

Written by Evan Williams July 22, 2025

Frankenstein Shoe Combines Runner, Hiker, Climber: Salewa Wildfire NXT Review

The Salewa Wildfire NXT combines the technical capabilities of approach shoes with the cush and comfort of light hikers. I tested them on America’s highest…

Written by Bergen Tjossem July 22, 2025