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.
New-Look Natural Selection Tour Aims to Disrupt Ski, Bike, and Surf Competitions
The newest evolution of the Natural Selection Tour will include skiing, surfing, and biking events. As with the original snowboarding competition, each event will be designed by athletes for athletes.
UPDATE: Convicted Poacher of ‘Hollywood Buck’ Sentenced to Jail Time
Virginia officials said they hoped the stiff penalties would deter other poachers.
New State Record on the Line: Montana Fisherman Catches Giant Chinook Salmon
Jim Fauth snagged the giant fish in Fort Peck Reservoir — the only Montana waterbody that contains Chinook salmon.
Mountain Lion Attacks, Kills Dog While Walking With Owners in Los Angeles Suburb
The unfortunate wildlife encounter resulted in the death of a pit bull named Gigi. Her owners were unharmed.
Biking
Check out news and gear reviews for mountain biking, bikepacking, road racing, winter fat biking, urban commuting, e-bikes, and more.
The Best Hitch Bike Racks of 2025
We tested the best hitch bike racks for 2025 with options for every budget. Top picks include Thule, Kuat, RockyMounts, and more.
Budget Brand Goes Premium: Saris Edge Hitch Bike Rack First Look Review
Today, Saris officially launches its new premium hitch bike rack, the Edge. It boasts a high weight limit and unique elements to set it apart from its competitors and the rest of the Saris lineup.
The Best Fat Tire Bikes of 2025
We found the best fat tire bikes of 2025 for every riding style and budget. Top picks include Ari, State, Aventon, and more.
Long-Travel eMTB for the Rowdiest Trails: Norco Range VLT C1 Review
An extremely capable high pivot downhill-focused mountain bike, but with a motor. You can lap your favorite big-hit run without a lift or shuttle.
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.
Hot Hammock in the Dead of Winter: Warbonnet Tsunami Review
What happens when one of the foremost hammock companies builds a hammock hot tent? A versatile tank of a fortress — if you can weather the weight and the learning curve.
The Best Camping Chairs of 2025
We found and tested the best camping chairs for every use and budget. Top picks include REI, Coleman, NEMO, and more.
The Best Camping Tents of 2025
Make the most of your home away from home by choosing the best camping tent for your adventure. We found the top car camping and family camping tents for every budget and use.
The Best Camping Hatchets of 2025
From survival, craft, and self-sufficiency standpoints, there is no better place to start simplifying than by purchasing a camping hatchet.
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 Best Assisted Braking Device for Lead Belaying: Petzl NEOX Long-Term Review
The Petzl NEOX solves the critical issue with most assisted braking belay devices — unwanted rope locking when feeding slack.
The Best Approach Shoes of 2025
Even though the sport climbers and boulderers don’t like it, sometimes getting to the crag requires a bit of hiking.
‘Icefall Doctors’ Embark on Mount Everest’s Most Dangerous Job
Before climbers arrive at Mount Everest each season, the ‘Icefall Doctors’ prepare the Khumbu Icefall for passage.
The Best Climbing Shoes of 2025
Aside from the ice climbers, mountaineers, and Charles Albert, every climber needs a pair of reliable climbing shoes.
Fitness
We cover fitness, nutrition, training, wellness, and health with a focus on gear, tips, and techniques to maximize performance in your outdoor pursuits.
All Relief, No Attachments: Hyperice Normatec Elite Compression Boots Review
The Hyperice Normatec Elite compression boots do away with external hoses, air compressor, and control panel.
Comfort, Easy Cleaning, Groovy Colors: Lululemon’s The Mat Is a Yoga Standout
If you’re looking for an all-around mat that’s adaptable to a range of yoga styles, The Mat from Lululemon is a solid choice.
My Experience With Stem Cell Therapy: Snake Oil or Silver Bullet?
Stem cell therapy has come a long way since its early days. As an athlete who has undergone it twice, I know that the results can be life-altering.
The Best Fitness Watches of 2025
We tested the best fitness watches of 2025 with options for every budget. Our top picks include Garmin, COROS, 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.
This Fifth-Pocket Folder From CRKT Proves You Can Do a Lot With a Little
Don’t let its inconspicuous size fool you; the CRKT Straight is a handy, versatile, capable friend for easy everyday carry.
Sexy, Speedy Slicer: CRKT Twist Tighe OTF Review
MagnaCut, carbon fiber, made-in-USA — oh my! CRKT’s first out-the-front automatic is a thing of beauty and finely honed (for the right tasks).
The Best Multitools of 2025
We tested the best multitools of 2025 with options for every use case and budget. Top picks include Leatherman, Gerber, and more!
The Best Pocket Knives of 2025
We reviewed the best pocket knives of 2025 with options for every budget. Top picks include Knafs, CIVIVI, and more.
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.
Subtle Changes, Better Feel, Still Sluggish: 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Review
We review the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander. Mitsubishi has made small changes but is aiming big with features like Yamaha’s first car stereo.
Small Car With Big Style, Big Range, Massive Screen: Introducing the 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA gets looks that will be controversial, but there’s no arguing with its tech or its massive range.
Kia Takes Swing at Elon as Tesla Owners Express Frustration With Musk
Kia took aim at Tesla this week in the wake of numerous Tesla owners expressing anger at CEO Elon Musk’s political turn to the right.
Chasing the Mint 400: 2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV LT Review
We take the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV LT to the desert during the Mint 400 to find out if it works off-road.
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.
‘Electric-First’ Airstream Basecamp 20Xe Camper Trailer Is Off-Grid Adventure-Ready
The Airstream Basecamp 20Xe delivers more battery, more efficient appliances, and more time away from it all.
EarthRoamer Ownership: Truths, Triumphs, and Tribulations
An EarthRoamer owner dives into the realities of life with one of these massive, expensive, and luxurious expedition vehicles.
Turn Your Grenadier SUV Into an Overland Camper With the Alu-Cab Silenus Roof Conversion
The Alu-Cab Silenus Roof Conversion turns your INEOS Grenadier SUV into an impressive overland home on wheels.
Luxury Home on Wheels Tackles Iconic Moab 4×4 Trails: TruckHouse R&D Mission
The TruckHouse BCR defies large expedition camper norms, as experienced on some of Moab’s most iconic 4×4 trails.
Outdoor
Outdoor activities like hiking, backpacking, camping, hunting, and fishing are core to GearJunkie’s coverage. Gear up and get out on your adventures.
The Best Electric Coolers of 2025
We tested the best electric coolers of 2025 with options for every budget and need. Top picks include Dometic, ARB, Engel, and more!
Washington Hikers Amazed After Finding Giant Octopus Near Local Trail
This group of friends wasn’t expecting an encounter with one of the world’s largest octopus species while enjoying a short hike in Bellingham, Wash.
White House Considers Further Cuts to Park Service
A coalition of conservation groups and nonprofits have filed a lawsuit against Elon Musk and DOGE over the ‘unjustified mass firings of federal workers.’
Feud Between Outside Inc., Writers Goes Public
After another round of layoffs at Outside Magazine, a group of well-known writers and photographers have excoriated its parent company for abandoning “bold journalism.”
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 Power Banks of 2025
We tested power banks from Nestout, Anker, BioLite, Goal Zero, and more, to help you find the best model for your budget and needs.
The Best Binoculars of 2025
We tested the best binoculars from NOCS Provisions, Celestron, Nikon, Maven, and more to help you find the best option for your needs and budget.
The New Boss of Budget Flashlights: Acebeam TAC 2AA Review
Small, powerful, versatile, and a virtually unbeatable price, the Acebeam TAC 2AA flashlight has a spot in every home.
Ski Bling: Aspen Snowmass, Hublot Unveil $27K Watch
Meet the Hublot Big Bang MECA-10 Aspen One, a high-class horological homage to Colorado’s most distinguished mountain resort: Aspen Snowmass.
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.
Carry-On, Reinvented: Peak Design Roller Pro First Look
Roller bags tend to suck. The Peak Design Roller Pro aims to redefine the category of rolling carry-on baggage.
Explore Off-Road in the Canyons & Plains of the Texas Panhandle
This region offers a surprising mix of stunning landscapes and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Iceland Car Rental Guide: Choosing the Right Vehicle for the Land of Fire and Ice
Our Iceland car rental guide is ready to help you spend more time seeing the epic scenery and less time at the rental counter.
Guide to Outside: Denver
The Mile-High City has some of the best outdoor access an urban area can offer.
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.
Turkey Hunting Gear 101: The Kit You Need to Tag Your Gobbler
We’ve put together a list of turkey hunting gear that will help you be successful and comfortable while you’re out chasing gobblers.
Real Conservation, No Gimmicks: The Gritty Work of Saving Desert Bighorn Sheep
Conservation often feels like an abstract concept. It’s often something that happens behind the scenes through funding, bureaucracy, and awareness campaigns. With KUIU Conservation Direct, it’s anything but abstract.
No License, No Antlers: Idaho’s Shed Hunting Rule Hits Nonresidents With Big Fees
Shed hunting in Idaho has become more expensive for nonresidents. A rule change last year means any out-of-stater without an Idaho big game hunting license is no longer allowed to gather antlers on public land.
Texas Game Wardens Bust Massive Black Market Deer Smuggling Ring
Texas game wardens busted a deer smuggling ring across 11 counties, filing 1,200 charges for illegal breeding, transport, and CWD violations.
Packs
From hydration daypacks for the ultramarathoner to 100L porteurs for arctic expeditions, GearJunkie covers packs and luggage for every adventure.
The Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2025
Head into the backcountry with the best backpacking backpacks of 2025. From budget-friendly options to ultra-comfortable picks, we’ve got you covered.
The Best Daypacks of 2025
We tested the best daypacks of 2025 with options for every budget. Top picks include Osprey, Cotopaxi, and more.
Where Mystery Ranch Ends and YETI Begins: Ranchero EDC Backpack Review
Don’t adjust your monitor — that’s not the pack you think it is. YETI breaks new ground with a familiar design: Meet the Ranchero 27L Pack.
YETI Launches ‘Ranchero’ EDC Daypack With Iconic Mystery Ranch 3-ZIP
The Ranchero daypack from YETI is launching this spring, and it’s designed to keep day-to-day essentials close at hand — whether you’re riding to work or hiking on the weekend.
Paddling
From serene backwater paddles to surfing epic curls, GearJunkie covers watercraft, accessories, and adventure from lakes and rivers to ocean surf.
Meet Canada’s Canoe Museum: ‘A Family Reunion for Your Boat’
The world’s largest collection of paddle boats now offers canoe workshops, voyageur tours, and a celebration of backcountry exploration.
Natural Selection Tour ‘Surf’ Kicks Off: 12 Athletes Ride ‘Jaw Dropping’ Waves This Week
Travis Rice’s newest evolution of his Natural Selection Tour debuts this week with the highly anticipated surf event — and athletes are ‘frothing’ to compete.
Another Paddlesport Merger: Jackson Kayak Acquires Eddyline Kayaks
Two U.S.-made kayak manufacturer icons are now one. Jackson Kayak continues to build its portfolio, first with Werner Paddles, and now with Eddyline Kayaks.
Trans-European Kayak Expedition: Duo Paddles, Portages From Ireland to Istanbul
Two Irishmen have overcome rough seas, frozen canals, and logistical nightmares to cover 1,200 miles. And they’re barely halfway done.
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 Midlayers of 2025
We tested the best midlayers of 2025 with options for every budget. Top picks include Patagonia, Smartwool, and more!
The Best Hiking Pants for Men of 2025
We tested the hiking pants for me from Outdoor Research, REI Co-op, Fjällräven, Black Diamond, and more to help you find the best option for your needs and budget.
The Best Down Jackets for Women of 2025
We tested the best women’s down jackets, from hefty technical layers to lightweight puffers, including Rab, Patagonia, Mountain Hardwear, Arc’teryx, and more.
The Best Down Jackets of 2025
We tested the best down jackets on the market from Arc’teryx, Patagonia, Rab, Mountain Hardwear, and more to help you find the best jacket for your needs and 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.
Vasque St. Elias Review: Old-School Style Meets Modern Performance
Looking for a modern take on an old-school silhouette? Vasque’s updated St. Elias retains the essence of a classic hiking boot design while injecting it with modern performance tech.
The Best Hiking Shoes for Women of 2025
We hit the trail and tested the best hiking shoes for women from Adidas, Merrell, Altra, La Sportiva, and more.
Short-Distance Racing Weapon: The North Face Summit Sky 2 First Look Review
The North Face levels up its Vectiv line with a short-distance, technical racing weapon. Meet the Summit Sky 2.
Foot Furnace: Meindl Nordkap PRO GTX Winter Boot Review
Sheepskin lining, aggressive outsole, and GORE-TEX shell make the Meindl Nordkap PRO GTX incredibly warm and protective for brutal weather.
Endurance
Endurance events like ultramarathons and adventure racing test the limits of human performance. Get inspired, train, and gear up for these growing sports.
Over-Stacked: Ultramarathon Winner Disqualified for Illegal Shoes
HOKA athlete Rajpaul Pannu said he didn’t realize his shoes were 8 mm over the max cushion allowed in the race: ‘My actions weren’t intentional.’
300 Miles of ‘Mind-Blowing Scenery’: New Zealand Adventure Race Begins This Weekend
The MAGNIficent serves as the first qualifying race for the Adventure Racing World Series. Participating teams must bike, raft, climb, and hike to finish the course.
FKT Controversy: Ultrarunner Stunned by Plea Bargain for Cutting Switchback; Trial Set for Spring
The plea deal offered to Michelino Sunseri by the prosecutor of his case would have banned the professional endurance athlete from Grand Teton National Park for 5 years. He pled not guilty and is headed to court in May.
Run Clubs Over Night Clubs: Gear and Trends From Strava 2024 Year-End Report
Strava dropped its 2024 ‘Year in Sport: Trend Report’ in December — some of the findings might surprise you as much as they did us.
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.
Courtney Dauwalter Turns 40, Celebrates With Limited-Edition ‘Birthday Cake’ Recovery Mix
To celebrate the big 4-0, ultrarunning’s most iconic runner partnered with Tailwind on an equally iconic flavor.
The Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2025
We tested the best backpacking water filters and purifiers for your next trip into the great outdoors.
Beer? More Like, Brrrr: East Rock Winter Lager Review
It’s dark and it’s cold, and that’s just the beer! Week 4 of winter brew reviews takes us to East Rock Brewing in New Haven, Connecticut!
(Virtually) Hands-Free Pellet Grilling Under $800: Traeger Woodridge Review
The Traeger Woodridge brings modern technology and design to a relatively affordable pellet grill.
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.
Pilot’s Sunglasses Survive Plane Crash: His Ombraz Stayed On When the Engine Gave Out
Not many sunglasses can claim they’ll stay on your face even if you’re in a plane crash — but this pilot’s Ombraz did.
Modular, Aviator Glacier Glasses Made From Plant Material: Zeal Selkirk Review
The first Zeal glacier sunglasses, the Selkirks, are made from plant-based resin and offer the easy option of removing the side panels and wearing the shades without them.
The Best Sunglasses for the Outdoors in 2025
Go beyond style with sunglasses that combine classic good looks with next-level technology and design.
The Best Sunglasses for Women of 2025
We tested nine models from top brands, including Smith, Oakley, Ray-Ban, and more to find the best women’s sunglasses.
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 2025
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!
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.
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!
Outfit Every Winter Adventure With Gifts From The North Face
Shop high-quality outerwear designed to stand up to any winter weather and last for multiple seasons.
Find Active Footwear for Everyone on Your List
KEEN’s high-quality boots and shoes are built for the trail, tough work, and everything in between.
The Best Gifts for Hiking of 2024
Let our gear experts guide you to the right gift for the hiker in your life. These boots, poles, and other gear all earned our thumbs up.
Best Gifts for Cyclists: 17 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
Fugitive Olympic Snowboarder Accused of Moving Mountains of Cocaine, Orchestrating Murders
The former Olympic athlete has been named in a sprawling indictment along with 14 others, accusing them of running a murderous, multibillion-dollar drug-running operation.
Gold Medal Shoes: Winning Kicks of the Olympic Games
What shoes did Olympic gold medalists use to win sprints, triathlons, sport climbing, and other events? Read on to find out.
Janja Garnbret Is the Simone Biles of Climbing: You Need to See It to Believe It
Janja Garnbret earned a near-perfect score of 99.6 during a thrilling performance at Tuesday’s semifinals for Olympic bouldering.
Olympic History: Watch Texas Teen Scorch Speed Climbing World Record
Sam Watson, 18, scaled the 49-foot speed climbing wall in a blistering time of 4.75 seconds.
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 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.
Best in Show: Award-Winning Gear From Outdoor Retailer Summer 2024
The Outdoor Retailer Summer 2024 show was held in Salt Lake this week, and the bleeding edge of the Outdoor Industry’s gear and technology innovations were on full display. Here were our favorites.
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 End-of-Season Deals From Big Agnes, SCOTT Sports, Renoun, and More
You won’t want to wait ’til the end of winter — or even this weekend — for these late-season deals on gear for skiers, cyclists, and anybody who likes getting outdoors.
Save 20% on New Gear During the 2025 REI Member Moment
Whether you want to gear up for hikes, camping trips, or your next workout, this limited-time event can save you 20% on one full-price item.
Snatch Up Killer Deals From Merrell, 5.11, Specialized, and More
Check out the latest outdoor gear deals to help you get outside, whether you’re a runner, van lifer, cyclist, or just looking for reliable apparel.
Late Winter Savings: Score Deals From REI, Backcountry, Filson, and More
Yes, there are still deals to be had as winter’s darkness abates and skiers look forward to corn snow and safe tours!
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 Women’s Flannel Shirts of 2025
We found the best women’s flannel shirts for every budget including top picks from Patagonia, Stio, Outdoor Research and more.
The Best Men’s Flannels of 2025
We tested and reviewed the best men’s flannel shirts of 2025. From wool to organic cotton, we found the perfect pick for any budget.
A Lightweight Winter Companion: KUHL Spyfire Parka Review
This malleable and mid-length 800-fill down jacket for women is made for active winter days.
A Legacy Wool Flannel: Fjällräven Canada Shirt Review
The Fjällräven Canada Shirt is a workhorse women’s flannel made with longevity and sustainability in mind.