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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
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.
Episode 108 | EI Coyote Quilts and Photo Satellite Messaging
On episode 108 of the Backpacking Light podcast, Nikki Stavile interviews Brian Noakes of El Coyote quilts, and we talk about a new satellite messaging device that can now send photos and voice memos.
Episode 107 | Backpack Ventilation with Vaucluse
Episode Sponsor Today’s episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast is sponsored by Garage Grown Gear, your hub for all things ultralight. Garage Grown Gear is dedicated to supporting the growth...
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.
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.
Ultralight, Ultra-Performance Backcountry Electronics (Revised and Updated)
In this updated gear guide, I'll provide some insight into the backcountry electronics I use, discuss their use cases, and explain why I chose those brands and models.
Gear Reviews
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.
Outdoor Research Flurry Sensor Glove Review (Updated)
The Outdoor Research Flurry Sensor Glove (2.5 oz / 71 g, $40) is the warmest glove I've found that I can use effectively with a smartphone.
Skills
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).
Cyanobacteria and Cyanotoxins in Backcountry Water Sources
In this video presentation, we dive into a critical topic to raise awareness about the increasing problem of cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, in backcountry water sources.
Gear Testing & Research
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.
Shell Game: Wind and Rain Jacket Breathability Tests vs. Trail Performance
I sent several top wind and rain shells to the lab to measure breathability and then took them on the trail for real-world testing.
Culture
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.
On Finding and Claiming Femininity in the Backcountry
"...they never felt more powerful, or more fit, or happier about themselves and their bodies, than when they were thru-hiking." - Nikki Stavile on femininity in the backcountry.
