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Latest
Standards Watch: Standards Are Important (But Not Enough)
Rex Sanders illustrates how difficult it can be to make accurate product comparisons based on manufacturer-provided data.
Interview with Gear Creator Michael Glavin
Rex Sanders interviews Michael Glavin, the founder and general manager of Zenbivy.
Nemo Equipment Kunai 3-4 Season Backpacking Tent Review
The Nemo Kunai 2P Tent ($499, 4 lb 5 oz / 1.96 kg) is a four-season shelter capable of withstanding moderate storms and offers ample headroom and good ventilation.
Episode 27 | Listener Q & A
Ryan and Andrew answer listener questions gathered from Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
REI Flash Air 1 Tent Review
The REI Flash Air 1 Tent (20 oz / 567 g, $249) is a hybrid single/double-wall solo tent with a single entrance and vestibule and can be supported by a single trekking pole.
First Looks: REI Flash Air 1 Tent
The REI Flash Air 1 is a 1-person, hybrid-wall (single/double) tent that can be pitched with a single trekking pole and weighs 20 oz.
Episode 24 | Gear We Love (2020 Edition)
Andrew and Ryan talk about some of the BPL Staff's favorite gear, our gear review philosophy, current news, and more!
Kammock Mantis and Mantis UL Hammock Review
The Kammok Mantis and Mantis UL are all-in-one hammock shelters that include hanging systems, tarps, bug netting, and more.
Hammock Gear Economy Burrow Quilt Review
The Hammock Gear Economy Burrow Ultralight Top Bag is an affordable, semi-customizable down quilt that is offered in a variety of colors, fill weights (i.e., temperature ratings), foot box types, lengths, and widths. The quilt featured in this review is rated for 30 F (-1 C), has a "wide" width (55 in / 140 cm), standard length (5 ft 7 in to 6 ft 2 in / 170 cm to 187 cm), and a sewn footbox. This model retails for $179.95, has a claimed weight of 22 oz (624 g), and a claimed loft (single layer) of 2 in (5 cm).
2019 Staff Picks
The Backpacking Light staff offer their ultralight and other gear recommendations for lightweight backpacking, hiking, and camping.
Lightweight Backpacking Gear for Cold Winter Temperatures (Two-Layer Systems, Vapor Barriers, and Really Puffy Stuff)
Lightweight backpacking gear for winter temperatures: two-layer insulation systems, vapor barrier systems, and really puffy stuff.
Sleeping Pad R-Values: Not That Useful
R-values alone are not enough for many consumers choosing new sleeping pads, and much of the current guidance is inconsistent.
REI Flash 55 Backpack Review
This REI Flash 55 Backpack review features a user-configurable, lightweight, internal-frame, roll-top pack.
2019 REI Sale (11/15 – 11/25) – Recommendations, anti-recommendations, and other ideas
The biggest REI sale of the year is going on right now - November 15 through 25, 2019. It's called the GUGO sale - "Gear Up, Get Out". Here are some resources to help you save money on decent gear.
REI Quarter Dome SL 2 Review (Tent)
This REI Quarter Dome SL 2 Review features a 2-person, double-wall, double-entrance, double-vestibule tent that weighs about 3 lbs.
REI Magma 30 Sleeping Bag Review
In this REI Magma 30 Sleeping Bag review, Mark Wetherington analyzes its cut, yoke, insulation and quality of construction.
Episode 13 | Tent-bound in a Storm
In this episode, Ryan offers some practical guidelines for managing wet gear, condensation, and camp chores if you have to be holed up in a tent during a prolonged period of inclement weather.
Lightweight Chairs for Backpacking (Gear Guide & Reviews)
Reviews of lightweight chairs and other seating options for backcountry use, including backpacking - 18 chairs and seats less than 25 oz.
Episode 12 | Lightweight Chairs & Seats for Backpacking
In this episode longtime BPL author Doug Johnson gives us a run-down of his favorite ultralight backcountry seating options reviewed in our new gear guide.
Lightweight Backpacking Chairs: REI Flexlite Air Chair vs. Helinox Chair Zero
The purpose of this article is to review the Helinox Chair Zero to the REI Flexlite Air Chair and see if there are any meaningful differences.
