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Article Library4.5+ million words and 2,500+ articles about backpacking gear, hiking and camping skills, gear testing, outdoor technology research, backpacking routes and trips, people, philosophy and ideas, outdoor news and commentary, and more. Premium and Unlimited Members get full access to the entire library.
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Latest
Episode 114 | Synthetic Fabric Structures
In episode 114 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about the different types of synthetic fibers and fabrics used in outdoor apparel.
Strategies for Backpacking in the Heat: Daily Routine and Gear Considerations
In this article, Jeff Podmayer discusses strategies for daily routine and choosing your gear when backpacking in the heat.
LightBench: A Laboratory Testing Procotol for Comparing the Performance of Flashlights and Headlamps
In this technical brief, we quantitatively evaluate the performance of lights considering brightness, battery life, and weight into an objective Lightbench Index.
Minimalist and Backpacking Footwear
In this guide, we’ll explore the primary categories of footwear for backpacking and hiking, including minimalist footwear, examining their unique benefits, limitations, and use cases.
Podcast 113 | Pad Pumps
In episode 113 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we talk about current PAD PUMP trends in the ultralight cottage industry, the challenges faced by small businesses during the holiday season plus a few interesting stocking stuffers.
Inflatable Sleeping Pads: Finding Comfort when Sleeping on the Ground (Updated)
The product category of inflatable sleeping pad is trending towards larger, warmer, and more comfortable pads - with very little weight penalty.
Gear Reviews
Garmin inReach Messenger Plus Review
The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus can send short text, photo and audio messages, weighs 4.1 ounces and has an MSRP of $500.
REI Magma Trail Quilt 30 Review (Updated)
This REI Magma Trail Quilt 30 review features a high quality, well-insulated quilt that uses water-resistant down and includes an insulated draft collar.
Superior Wilderness Designs Rugged Long Haul Review
The Superior Wilderness Designs Rugged Long Haul is a 35 to 50 L internal frame backpack weighing 2 pounds made from Ultra and EPX fabrics.
Skills
Keep Your Feet Happy and Healthy: A Crash Course for Backcountry Podiatry
Knowing how to properly care for your feet can make or break a hike, especially on longer trips. In this article, I examine available data on common foot and ankle injuries and discuss how to prevent them, as well as what to do when they occur in the field.
How do tent stakes interact with soils to create holding power?
Tent stake holding power, especially in adverse wind conditions, relies on principles of engineering and physics, including cross-sectional shape, length, soil interaction, and insertion angle.
Why You Should Spend a Few Ounces of Pack Weight on Rainwear Ventilation Features (Updated)
In this article, we make the case for spending some extra weight on rain jackets and rain pants that offer more ventilation features (and durability) than typical ultralight rainwear styles (updated July 2024).
Gear Testing & Research
How Fishnet Works (Base Layer Fabric Structures)
This article explores how fishnet base layers offer superior moisture management and comfort for cold-weather backpacking by promoting rapid moisture vapor transport and minimizing condensation.
By the Numbers: How does Tent Design and Materials Influence Cold-Weather Camping Comfort?
An overview of the complex heat exchange mechanisms between the tent occupant and the outside environment - and how to test tent construction's impact on comfort.
How do tent stakes interact with soils to create holding power?
Tent stake holding power, especially in adverse wind conditions, relies on principles of engineering and physics, including cross-sectional shape, length, soil interaction, and insertion angle.
Culture
Comfort vs. Weight: Gear Guidance for Aging Backpackers
Ronni Wilde writes about her adventures lightening her pack to allow her to do more backpacking at an older age.
New Gear Guides: REI & Cottage Brands (+2024 Sale Info)
Quick reference to information and links to the new REI and Cottage Brand gear guides & 2024 Spring Sales.
Book Review: Trail of the Lost
Mark Wetherington reviews the Trail of the Lost by Andrea Lankford and reacts to the implications it unveils for backpackers.
