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.
Trump Reopens Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to Oil and Gas Drilling
President Trump has repeatedly tried to entice oil and gas companies to drill in this critical habitat for polar bears — with few results.
‘A Bittersweet Moment’: Nonprofit Locates Kayaker’s Remains in National Park Lake After Year-Long Search
Wesley Dopkins went missing on Jackson Lake in the summer of 2024. It took a year and a specialized nonprofit search and recovery organization to find him.
Body Recovered After Car Drives Over Grand Canyon Rim
The body of a 27-year-old person was recovered 300 feet below the rim of the Grand Canyon after their car drove off the edge.
True Love on Two Wheels? What Happens When You Motorcycle Around the World With Someone You Just Met on a Dating App
An upcoming book chronicles the physical, mental, and emotional challenges — and victories — of a most unorthodox courtship.
Biking
Check out news and gear reviews for mountain biking, bikepacking, road racing, winter fat biking, urban commuting, e-bikes, and more.
California Opens 100+ of Miles of Trails to E-Bike Users, Utah to Follow Suit
Land managers in Tahoe and Moab are moving to increase e-bike access by allowing them on trails where other motorized vehicles are prohibited.
Find Your Local ‘Gear Library’: Use This to Bikepack on the Cheap
Curious about off-road camping with a bicycle? Gear libraries can help equip you without emptying your wallet, and offer advice for your first trip.
Major Cycling Event Canceled Over ICE Presence in Minneapolis
Frostbike, a longstanding bike trade show, was canceled because of ‘current law enforcement activities,’ organizers said.
The Best Hitch Bike Racks of 2026
We tested the best hitch bike racks with options for every budget. Top picks include Thule, Küat, Rocky Mounts, and more.
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.
FlipFuel Review: Transfer Your Half-Empty Fuel Canisters Into One
The FlipFuel Fuel Transfer Device is a tiny device that is tackling one of backpacking’s most universal problems — the issue of half-full fuel canisters.
Camp Coffee: Best Ways to Brew in the Outdoors
Roughing it is only tolerable with coffee, otherwise it’s just barbaric. Here are 11 ways to brew coffee at camp, from basic to high tech.
This Camping Cot Packs Small, Sleeps Big: Kelty Lowdown Cot Review
At less than 5 pounds, the Kelty Lowdown Cot is about the most minimal camping cot available, but it doesn’t skimp on comfort.
Space Heater Doubles as Camp Stove: Ignik Skullet Heater Stove Review
The Ignik Skullet packs down small but delivers an incredible amount of heat, ideal for warming up next to and cooking gourmet camping meals.
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.
The Next Must-Watch Climbing Event Doesn’t Include Alex Honnold
Find out everything you need to know about the new climbing comp that’s shaking up the system.
Petzl Recalls Ice Axes and Guiding Harnesses
Multiple ice axes and guiding harnesses pose serious safety risks to users.
Why I Stopped Taking Dates to the Climbing Gym
If you think climbing gyms are the new hot spot for dating — think again.
Special Forces Soldier Loses Legs in Afghanistan — Then Scales the Seven Summits
A life-changing injury led Hari Budha Magar to a new goal: becoming the first double above-knee amputee to climb the Seven Summits.
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 Gym Shorts for Men of 2026
From Vuori to Under Armour, our fitness experts found the best gym shorts for men to fit every budget and workout. Get ready to sweat.
Eternal Ice HD Pro Ice Bath + Chiller Review: A Durable Tub for the Great Outdoors
An excellent chiller and durable build make this ice bath and chiller combo a great outdoor plunge.
Why Every Athlete Needs a Foam Roller and How to Choose
We tested the best foam rollers from Roll Recovery, Therabody, AmazonBasics, and more to help you find the best option for your needs and budget.
How to Choose a Yoga Mat
Whether you’re new to yoga or have a lifelong practice, using a comfortable, reliable yoga mat is key.
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.
Put This Beauty to Work: GiantMouse ACE REO Black and Brass Review
Italian design meets modern tech in the ACE REO Black and Brass, a splendid trifecta of size, weight, and aesthetics.
Take Your Knives for a Spin: HORL3 Rolling Sharpener Review
The HORL3 Rolling Sharpener offers reliable sharpening for all varieties of knives, extending performance and longevity.
Sharp Timing: GiantMouse, Zodiac Collab on Premium Dive Tools
A revered knifemaker and Swiss watchmaker team up for a pair of dive tools that beg to be used.
Twinning: The CRKT Counterpart Maneuvers to be a Budget Bugout
Though the resemblance to the Bugout is uncanny, the sub-$100 Counterpart offers comparable performance for noticeably less.
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.
Rivian Gets RAD: Skunkworks Goes Mainstream
Rivian’s in-house skunkworks is being branded, funded, and shown to the world. Introducing the Rivian Adventure Department.
Don’t Let the Marketing Fool You: 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Review
The Grand Cherokee gets a fresh face and a new heart for 2026, but loses some of its capability and performance.
It’s Back, Better, and Hybrid: 2026 Jeep Cherokee Review
After a first drive in the 2026 Cherokee Overland, I have a lot to share in my review. Jeep’s first series hybrid impressed.
The Sequel That’s Better Than the Original: 2026 Toyota C-HR Review
We get behind the wheel of the new 2026 Toyota C-HR to find out what it’s all about.
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.
Globe Trekker Aims to Unlock Ford E-Series’ Off-Road and Overland Potential
The new Globe Trekker subframe and camper box help turn E-350/E-450 chassis into a proper adventure camper.
Supertramp Campers Debuts ‘Paragon’ Overland Truck Camper: Exclusive First Look
Exclusive first look at the new overland truck camper from Supertramp Campers, the Paragon.
$145K 4×4 E-Series RV: Overlander Campers Ridge XT First Look
The 20-foot–long, fully built-out 4×4 Overlander Ridge XT is ready for adventure, straight off the production line in Washington.
Peace Vans Pops the Top on the Electric VW ID Buzz
Peace Vans ID Buzz pop-top completes the campervan program for the electrified VW.
Outdoor
Outdoor activities like hiking, backpacking, camping, hunting, and fishing are core to GearJunkie’s coverage. Gear up and get out on your adventures.
Uncontained Wildfire Tears Through Largest Florida Panther Habitat
The National Fire in Big Cypress National Preserve has quintupled in size in just a few days, and shows no signs of stopping.
Colorado Reports Spike in Human-Bear Interactions
New data shows that trash continues to cause conflict between humans and bears.
A Border Wall Is Coming to This Texas National Park
A recent plan to build a border wall through public lands in Texas is sparking debate.
US National Park Visitation Sees Slump From Canada, UK, and Australia
Fewer international travelers are planning national park trips in 2026. Travel organizations blame the White House’s increased immigration restrictions and ‘heated rhetoric.’
Technology
Capture your trip, stay in touch, and track your training. We cover the best tech products including cameras, beacons, smartwatches, apps, and more.
Finally, an AMOLED Fitness Watch With All-Weekend Stamina: Suunto Vertical 2 Watch Review
Suunto’s latest flagship is a statement piece for the wrist that doesn’t compromise on ruggedness.
The Best Wireless Earbuds and Headphones of 2026
Wireless earbuds are tiny keys, unlocking a world of mobile music. We compared tons of the leading wireless earbuds to determine the best of 2026.
The HM55R RENEGADE Is Fenix’s Best Recreational Headlamp Yet
The Fenix HM55R RENEGADE makes a strong case as a top headlamp for backpacking, camping, hunting, and more.
The Best Headphones for Running and Sports of 2026
We tested the best workout headphones of 2025 with options for every budget and athlete. Top picks include Jaybird, Bose, and more!
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.
An Adventure at Every Turn: Discover the Thrill of Puerto Rico’s West Coast
Epic surf breaks, electric pink sunsets, and hidden waterfalls combine to make Puerto Rico’s western coast a must-visit on your adventure list.
The Best Carry-On Luggage of 2026
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 2026.
Buy It for Life: Is a $760 Carry-On Worth It?
The Saddleback Leather Company Deep Pocket Duffle carries a 100-year warranty and is built like a tank. Should you buy one and be done?
The Best Travel Backpacks of 2026
We found the best travel backpacks of 2024, including top picks from Peak Design, Osprey, Patagonia, and more.
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.
Premium Without the $1,000 Price Tag? Duck Camp Zip Waders Review
After a full duck season in Oklahoma’s freezing mornings and warm afternoons, we tested the Duck Camp Zip Waders to see if $850 can truly compete with $1,000 breathable models.
Scope-Maker Goes Guns: Redfield Delivers High-Value Shotguns
Skeptical at first, I tested the Redfield Vector Semi-Auto and Drive Pump in Texas and Montana and found reliable, comfortable shotguns that outperform their budget price tags in real hunting conditions.
Micro-Adjustable, Bombproof, and Not Cheap: Hamskea R7 Arrow Rest Review
Hamskea hit an absolute home run with the new R7 Arrow Rest. For bowhunting, it doesn’t get much better than this.
A Soft Shell Jacket for Your Legs: Kifaru Torlander Pant Review
The Kifaru Torlander pants are close to perfection. They can breathe when things get hot, but provide protection from extreme elements.
Packs
From hydration daypacks for the ultramarathoner to 100L porteurs for arctic expeditions, GearJunkie covers packs and luggage for every adventure.
Small, Simple, and Shockingly Capable: REI Co-op Flash 18 Daypack Review
Some daypacks are so feature-rich they start to look like mini-backpacking packs, but the Flash 18 keeps thing simple, reliable, and affordable.
Peak Organization for Backcountry Tools, Gear, and Supplies: Mountainsmith Mayhem EVO 30L Review
Influenced by a handful of search-and-rescue teams, the Mountainsmith Mayhem EVO 30L is adventure-ready, with both work and play in mind.
A Dialed Pack for Big Backcountry Adventures: Raide Research LF 30L Review
Raide Research’s innovative ski mountaineering daypack doesn’t skimp on details or technical chops. For serious adventures in the backcountry, this pack has your back.
Burly External FramePack Carries 300+ Pounds: Seek Outside Goshawk 2.0 Backpack Review
Fully customizable with Seek Outside Accessories, the external frame Goshawk 4800 2.0 is about as versatile and durable of a backpack as you’ll find anywhere on the market.
Paddling
From serene backwater paddles to surfing epic curls, GearJunkie covers watercraft, accessories, and adventure from lakes and rivers to ocean surf.
House Votes to Allow Mining Near Pristine Boundary Waters
The bill will overturn a 20-year ban on mining enacted in 2023.
Pedals to Paddles: Alpacka Launches First Sea Kayak Packraft
Alpacka’s lead designers (and co-founder) spent 10 years bringing their packraft concept to sea kayaks. The result? A 12-pound inflatable kayak that tracks on flatwater.
A First Descent Generations in the Making: Watch Indigenous Kayakers Run Entire Klamath
For the first time in over 100 years, the Klamath is a free-flowing river. Watch a group of young kayakers become the first to run it from source to sea.
Werner’s Latest Paddles Recalled: Blades Break Off Shafts
Anyone who owns a Werner Paddles Covert or Stealth model should stop using them immediately.
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.
Looks Good Enough to Wear to a Wedding, So I Did: Unbound Merino Travel Pants Review
These merino wool travel pants look dang good, so after 7 days in the jungles of Costa Rica, I wore them to a ceremony to prove their versatility.
Turn Up the Heat: Venustas Classic Heated Vest Review
The Venustas Classic Heated Vest is cute, comfortable, and extremely warm for chilly days outside, making it easy to stay out longer.
Eddie Bauer Faces Closure of All North American Stores
The corporation managing Eddie Bauer stores may file for bankruptcy as the brand expands focus on wholesale and e-commerce.
The Best Men’s Flannels of 2026
We tested and reviewed the best men’s flannel shirts of 2026. From wool to organic cotton, we found the perfect pick for any budget.
Footwear
From trail-running shoes to winter boots, waterproof hikers, fishing waders, and minimalist and barefoot shoes, we cover footwear from pavement to peak.
Run Comfortably All Winter Long: Arc’teryx Norvan 4 Nivalis GTX Review
The Arc’teryx Norvan 4 Nivalis GTX winter shoes combine a sleek integrated gaiter, impressive traction, and comfortable midsole for long runs in the snowy months.
In the Fast Lane With the HOKA Cielo X1 3.0
Introducing the HOKA Cielo X1 3.0, the brand’s newest, lightest, and fastest super shoe.
Fashionable, Mostly Functional, Cold-Weather Hikers: HOKA X Halfdays Kaha 2 Frost Moc GTX Review
The HOKA x Halfdays Kaha 2 Frost Moc GTX have a high-traction outsole, waterproof membranes, and breathable insulation that keep feet warm and dry on snow and ice.
The Best Winter Hiking Boots of 2026
When snow and ice take over, the best winter hiking boots deliver warmth, traction, and protection that won’t quit. We tested top options from KEEN, Columbia, The North Face, and Hoka to keep you moving through the coldest trails.
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 Socks of 2026
After months spent pounding the pavement, we found the best running socks of 2025. From Balega to Darn Tough and Saucony, these are the top picks.
The Best Massage Guns of 2026
We tested some of the best massage guns on the market, including picks from Therabody, TriggerPoint, and Power Plate.
The Best Running Vests & Packs of 2026
We tested the best running hydration packs and vests of this year, including top picks from Salomon , Decathlon, Nathan Sports, and more.
Burly Belt Could Replace Your Running Vest: Raide Research LF 2L
When moving fast in the mountains or down the trail is a priority, the Raide Research LF 2L carries essentials in a secure and comfortable system that is uniquely burly and well-designed.
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.
Bear Poop Lager: Columbia Unveils ‘Nature Calls’ Beer, Brewed With Scat
Because beer shouldn’t taste like crap, it should be brewed with it.
Camp Coffee: Best Ways to Brew in the Outdoors
Roughing it is only tolerable with coffee, otherwise it’s just barbaric. Here are 11 ways to brew coffee at camp, from basic to high tech.
The Best Thermoses of 2026
If you want your favorite liquids to stay hot all day, check out our roundup of the best thermoses of 2026. Get ready to warm up with a hot drink.
Say Goodbye to Smartwater Bottles — These Dialed Alternatives Have Refined the Design
Smartwater bottles have been a trail favorite for backpackers. Now, branded alternatives are emerging that refine the single-use design.
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.
Slackline Suspected as Cause of Deadly Helicopter Crash in Arizona Canyon
The helicopter struck a kilometer-long slackline in Arizona’s Telegraph Canyon this weekend, killing four people.
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.
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.
The Best Sunglasses for the Outdoors in 2026
Go beyond style with sunglasses that combine classic good looks with next-level technology and design.
Look Good and Be Prepared for Anything: Wiley X Apex Sunglasses Review
Can sunglasses perform on the water, the shooting range, and the job site while still looking good? The Wiley X Apex has an answer: Yes.
Wraparound Sport Shades Cinch Tight: Ombraz ‘Refugio’ Sunglasses Review
Ombraz’s first wraparound sunglasses, the Refugio, targets cyclists, paddlers, runners, and other active sport enthusiasts.
Budget Buoyancy: Goodr Tidal G Floating Sunglasses Review
Polarized shades are almost a requirement on the water, but there’s nothing worse than losing them in the drink. Enter the Goodr Tidal G.
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 2026
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!
The Best Kids’ Snow Gear of 2026
We put the best kids’ snow gear and cold weather clothing to the test. Our top picks include Patagonia, Columbia, and more.
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.
Holiday
GearJunkie experts craft gift guides and gather holiday deals to help you shop for the special outdoorsperson in your life — or spoil yourself!
How to Cut Your Own Christmas Tree on Public Land
With online permitting and a wealth of national forests, you could save money and have a fun outdoor experience this holiday by finding your own tree.
GearJunkie’s Favorite REI Co-op Winter Picks for 2025
Pieces that perform on the mountain, look good, and are made to last. Find your holiday list at REI Co-op.
Less Is More: Awesome Outdoor Gifts Under $50
Looking for a gift in the zero-to-$50 price range? We’ve got you covered with functional, essential, and totally fun options from the wide world of gear.
Best Outdoor Gifts: Our Favorite Head-to-Toe Gear for Any Adventure
Find great gear for almost any outdoor sport or activity — that’s what this guide is all about!
Olympics
Skimo Explained: Complete Guide to the Winter Olympics’ Newest Sport
Ski Mountaineering made its Olympic debut at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympic Games — but what is it? And who was competing?
Mikaela Shiffrin Wins Gold Medal in Her Final Event at Winter Olympics
Shiffrin delivered a dominating performance in the women’s slalom on Wednesday to put her in rarified air with few other U.S. Olympians.
Banned Ski Wax Is Triggering DQs at the Olympics
Skiers and snowboarders have faced disqualification for using waxes with PFAS.
The High Cost of Success: Jessie Diggins’ Documentary Shows Grueling Pursuit of Perfection
‘Threshold’ provides an unflinching look at the superstar American cross-country skier’s mental health struggles.
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.
New-Look Outdoor Retailer Heads to Minnesota
As it eyes a new home, Outdoor Retailer commits to specialty stores and industry leadership.
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.
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.
Can’t-Miss Deals From Backcountry, Cotopaxi, Janji, and More
Brands like Salewa, The North Face, and Patagonia are slashing prices on jackets, hiking apparel, and boots.
Pre-Spring Deals on Gear From Filson, Patagonia, Snow Peak, and More
It’s a great time to snag some sweet February deals on winter apparel and accessories, or stay cozy with some waterproof boots.
Don’t Miss Holiday Savings From Helly Hansen, YETI, Hyperlite, and More
Presidents Day is bringing major outdoor gear deals, including ski equipment, ultralight packs, puffers, and more.
February Deals You’ll Love From NEMO, Huckberry, Exped, and More
Get yourself the ultimate Valentine’s Day gift with deals on winter boots, puffers, tents, and more.
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 Flannels of 2026
We tested and reviewed the best men’s flannel shirts of 2026. From wool to organic cotton, we found the perfect pick for any budget.
How to Choose a Yoga Mat
Whether you’re new to yoga or have a lifelong practice, using a comfortable, reliable yoga mat is key.
REI’s ‘Return Tags’ Are an Oral History of Hilarious Outdoor Mishaps
The used gear section of the popular outdoor retailer is full of humor, heart, humility, and great deals and discounts on lightly used return items.
The F-150 of Flannels: MuskOx Field Grand Flannel Review
With its soft, lofty cotton and no-bull design, MuskOx nails the quintessential flannel with its Field Grand.
