Gear Reviews
Backpacking Light has built a hard-won reputation for comprehensive and fair product reviews, reflecting our Editorial Values of Objectivity, Trust, Authority, Inclusivity, and Clarity.
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Equinox ARAS Eagle Backpack Review
The Eagle is the Platypus of frameless backpacks: it has some unique design features, loads of comfort and convenience features, and it's a great value, but is it the right pack for you?
ZPacks Dyneema X 26 Backpack Review
ZPacks offers a range of pack sizes, fabrics, and innovative pack options that minimize weight. You end up with a really lightweight custom pack. How does the tested ZPacks Dyneema X 26 compare to other lightweight frameless packs for ultralight backpacking?
New Balance MT814OD Review
Just slightly heavier than the 740s, do the 814s finally hit all Roger's sweet spots despite their weight?
Vasque Mindbender Trail Shoe Review
Created to eat up miles without eating up your feet, but is Brad suitably impressed?
Elemental Horizons Aquilo Backpack Review
The Aquilo is the mouse that roared. I expected it to be a smaller frameless backpack based on its specifications, but it jumped into the high volume pack category, then it came out on top in that group.
Eddie Bauer First Ascent Expedition Weight Baselayers Review
These lightweight synthetic baselayers are remarkably warm for their weight and highly versatile.
New Balance MR740TR Review
Another fine member of the lightweight low-cut New Balance jogger family.
Terra Nova Laser Ultra 1 Tent Review
Terra Nova maintains their reputation with the latest “lightest double-wall shelter in the world,” weighing just over 1 pound. This one has a Cuben Fiber canopy and floor.
LAUFBURSCHE huckePACK Review
German innovation hits the frameless backpacking market: water resistant with a volume that manages to work well for overnighters and week-long expeditions. Is it too good to be true?
GoLite Tumalo Storm Jacket & Pants Review
The Tumalo line is GoLite's most affordable WPB rain gear, yet only gives up a little weight on their top-of-the-line offerings. How does it perform?
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider Backpack Review
A lower volume frameless pack constructed of a Cuben fiber/ripstop nylon laminate that’s cutting edge and raises the bar for frameless backpack elegance.
Ultralight Adventure Equipment (ULA) CDT Backpack Review
The CDT is a really nice frameless backpack that would be even better with a few revisions. And there is one thing you really need to know…
Big Sky International Evolution 2P Tent Review
Creation vs Evolution: one of the thorniest questions ever and one I prefer to stay away from most of the time. But Bob Molen’s latest creation is the ever-evolving Evolution 2P, and one I feel comfortable tackling. It is almost divine...
MSR Carbon Reflex 3 Tent Review
Dropping two full pounds from my current tent weight to use a sub-five-pound three-person double-wall tent all summer sounded too good to be true. How did MSR's lightest 3P shelter work for the Estrella family?
Integral Designs eVent Pullover Review
Does the strong appeal, on paper, of the Integral Designs eVent Pullover materialize in real-world use?
Mountain Laurel Designs Exodus Backpack Review
A higher volume (59 L) durable fabric frameless backpack with superb design, construction, and options.
Kelty Cosmic Down 20 Sleeping Bag Review
It's a $100 DOWN bag. Too good to be true? You may be surprised...
PHD Mountain Software Yukon Down Pullover Review
Featuring 900 fill-power down, baffled construction, high loft, and a nearly waterproof shell, the Yukon Pullover is a well-balanced four-season down parka. Is this the ultimate ultralight down garment for cold weather pursuits?
Katabatic Sawatch 15 Quilt and Crestone Hood Review
Very warm, quality gear from a cottage manufacturer dedicated to innovative lightweight sleeping solutions.
Therm-a-Rest ProLite Air Mat Product Review
Cascade Designs upgraded their ProLite self-inflating mat once again, with another weight reduction. What were the consequences of weight loss on warmth?
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Garage Grown Gear Hidden Gems
Discover under-the-radar ultralight gear from small brands.
