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Chris Carter

Based in beautiful Chattanooga, Tennessee, Chris Carter is a Senior Editor for GearJunkie, while squeezing in side gigs as an adventure filmmaker and content creator in the outdoor industry. Drawing from his childhood in Africa, experience as a rock climbing and backpacking guide, ultra-marathon running, and years of extensive thru-hiking, he’s passionate about journalism that gets people into the wild. He has thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long trails in America: the Pacific Crest Trail (2018), the Continental Divide Trail (2021), and the Appalachian Trail (2021), and has explored, rock-climbed, and backpacked all over the world. He hopes to spread his love of adventure and travel through his writing, art, and videography.

The Best Hiking Shoes of 2023

We tested and ranked the best hiking shoes for men and women for 2022, including top picks from Salomon, Lems, Merrell, SCARPA, and more.

Written by Mallory Paige, Austin Beck-Doss and Chris Carter April 18, 2023

The Best Ultralight Backpacks of 2023

What’s the best ultralight backpack? We interviewed thru-hikers and put several models to the test to find some of the top lightweight hiking backpacks.

Written by Sean McCoy and Chris Carter April 18, 2023

The Best Hiking Pants for Men of 2023

With a focus on comfort, durability, and performance, we’ve found the best hiking pants for men. Get ready to hit the trail.

Written by Steve Graepel, Chris Carter and Justin La Vigne April 07, 2023

The Best Backpacking Tents of 2023

Whether you’re looking to spend 100 nights on the trail or stick to a tight budget, we’ve found the best backpacking tents of 2023.

Written by Sean McCoy and Chris Carter March 28, 2023

The Best Trekking Poles of 2023

We tested the best trekking poles of 2022 with options for every adventure and budget. Top picks include Black Diamond, REI, and more!

Written by Mallory Paige and Chris Carter March 27, 2023

The Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2023

Head into the backcountry with the best backpacking backpacks of 2022. From budget-friendly options to ultra-comfortable picks, we’ve got you covered.

Written by Austin Beck-Doss and Chris Carter March 24, 2023

Patagonia Nano-Air Jacket Review: A Time-Tested, Breathable Masterpiece

Optimized for start-stop aerobic missions where maximum breathability while active and reliable warmth while static is required, the Patagonia Nano-Air Jacket is a premium do-it-all…

Written by Chris Carter March 17, 2023

The Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags of 2023

A sleeping bag is one of your most important pieces of camping gear. We’ve found the best backpacking sleeping bags for every use and budget.

Written by Adam Ruggiero, Ryan Baker, & Chris Carter March 16, 2023

The Best Hiking Boots of 2023

If you’re looking for the best hiking boots, look no further. We’ve tested dozens of hiking boots over hundreds of miles to help you stay…

Written by Mallory Paige and Chris Carter March 15, 2023

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket Review: The Classic Still Stands Out

A time-tested favorite in the outdoor community, the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket may be the most well-known synthetic layer on the market.

Written by Chris Carter March 14, 2023

The Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads of 2023

We tested and review the best sleeping pads for backpacking in 2022. Whether you need an ultralight mat or more insulation, we’ve got it.

Written by Mallory Paige, Austin Beck-Doss, & Chris Carter March 13, 2023

The Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2023

We tested the best backpacking water filters and purifiers for your next trip into the great outdoors.

Written by Mary Murphy and Chris Carter March 01, 2023

The Best Firestarters of 2023

Firestarters are a must-have for your outdoor survival kit. After all, fire can be one of your closest anchors to life in the outdoors, especially…

Written by Ian Standard & Chris Carter December 01, 2022

The Best Synthetic Insulated Jackets of 2023

We tested the best synthetic insulated jackets of 2022 with options for every budget. Top picks include Arc’teryx, Patagonia, and more.

Written by Seiji Ishii & Chris Carter November 21, 2022

The Best Down Jackets of 2023

We found the best down jackets of 2023. From ultralight backpacking jackets to budget-friendly everyday puffy jackets, we’ve got you covered.

Written by Adam Ruggiero, Morgan Tilton, & Chris Carter November 08, 2022

The Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2022

Active travel demands versatility from your clothing. To help you travel with ease and confidence, we scoured the latest styles to determine the best women’s…

Written by Katie Griffith September 12, 2022