Backpacking Light
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Black Diamond Infinity 60 & Innova 50 Backpack Review
Freedom of movement is the next advancement in internal frame backpack technology, but it appears to have limitations.
Valley Hopping in the Cordillera Huayhuash – Global Test Photo Essay
Hopscotch over lakes, skip the main trail, and discover the jewels of Peru.
SPOT2 Personal Locator Review and Extensive Field Test
Results of 80 days (750 hours) of field testing of the new SPOT2 in Alaska, the Andes, the Pyrenees, and the Lower 48, including the Sierras and a southwest canyon system.
Reader Tips: Best Way to Pitch a Tarp with Fewest Stakes or Guylines
We asked, you answered! Responses to our solicitation for the best tarp pitch using the fewest poles, stakes, or guylines.
The Effect of Cold on Gas Canisters
Ever tried to use your stove in the cold only to find that it just won't work, even although shaking the canister tells you there is plenty of fuel left? Then, when you check it at home to see what's the matter, it works perfectly. What is going on?
Philmont Redux: A Returning Scouter’s Report
Nearly 40 years after his first visit, Tom brought his son's Troop to experience the magic of Philmont - and the magic of lighter packs!
Patagonia Down Sweater Review
This popular jacket has been around and evolved over the years. We love the sizing and fit, but how does it stack up for backpacking?
Aconcagua Photo Essay and Gear List
Tackling big mountains with lightweight gear is becoming our trademark, and it never gets dull!
Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2010: Open Air Demo
While the first day of Outdoor Retailer is dedicated to water sport, we found a few products that could carry over for backpacking as well... plus some that are just plain fun, no bones about it!
GoLite Demaree Canyon Jacket and Anorak Review
Attractive fully-featured multi-purpose insulated down garments, but are they warm enough for our backpacking needs?
The Global Test: One Gear List for Two Years and Five Continents
Part 1: Backpackers are all over the map when it comes to answering the question... What should I pack?
Ultralight Three-Season Down Jackets State of the Market Report 2010 Part 3
Multi-purpose three-season down jackets balance light weight, warmth, and features. These jackets are designed to please as many people as possible, in as many activities as possible, while keeping the overall weight light enough to impress the average consumer. Our evaluation includes comparative specifications, calculated parameters, warmth testing, ratings, and identifying the standouts for different situations, needs, and preferences.
Ultralight Three-Season Down Jackets State of the Market Report 2010 Part 2
Seriously lightweight down jackets – those most suitable for ultralight backpacking and other lightweight pursuits. Our evaluation includes comparative specifications, calculated parameters, warmth testing, ratings, and identifying the standouts for different situations, needs, and preferences.
Ultralight Three-Season Down Jackets State of the Market Report 2010 Part 1
A state-of-the-art overview of ultralight down jackets – we analyze the components and discuss “baffling” issues like shell fabrics, down quality, fill weight, packing density, loft, and warmth.
Rapids, Wolves, and Winter
With amazingly light loads that included skis, packrafts, dry suits, winter camping gear, and a week’s worth of food, we set out to visit the Frank Church Wilderness in winter to prove a point.
Ultralight Three-Season Down Mummy-Style Sleeping Bags: State of the Market Report 2010
Mummy bags win hands down as the most thermally efficient bag design. An ultralight down mummy combined with an ultralight down jacket and pants creates a remarkably warm and versatile sleeping system for colder conditions. Join Will as he rounds up and rates the lightest three-season down mummy bags.
Sierra Prime: Off Trail in California’s High Country
The greatest rewards come when you choose to get off the beaten path and build a personalized hike that mixes challenge and fun at whatever level works for you.
MontBell Ex Light Women’s Down Jacket Review
The lightest down jacket to be found, but the women’s version doesn’t have as much loft and warmth as the men’s version.
2009 Backpacking Light Staff Picks
Backpacking Light staff pick their favorite gear of 2009.
Denali Light: The 2009 Attempt
A light and kind-of fast expedition on one of the world’s great mountains.
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