Topics
With over 20 years publishing the latest in outdoor and adventure news, reviews of the best gear on the planet, and coverage of emerging gear, GearJunkie.com is your authoritative outdoor source. We travel the globe and test equipment against the elements.
News
GearJunkie experts cover breaking news in the world of the outdoors, adventure, and gear for the industry insider and backyard adventurer alike.
This Climber Thinks Climbing Is ‘Absolutely Pointless’
Here’s a quick treatise on whether climbing matters — er, exactly why it both does and does not.
How an Art Student Set the Course for 50 Years of Patagonia Product Photography
“He hung out with us for four years, and out of that came 4,500 photographs, pretty much every one of which was perfect.”
Dale ‘Greybeard’ Sanders: The Man, the Myth, the Mississippi
Dale ‘Greybeard’ Sanders’ motto is, “Someday I’ll get old.” His latest expedition proves that nothing can hold this octogenarian paddler back.
‘Gate Change Gnar’: Trending Strava Segment Sends Runners Flocking to Denver Airport
Flight delay? Thanks to a new Strava segment, that’s the perfect time to train.
Biking
Check out news and gear reviews for mountain biking, bikepacking, road racing, winter fat biking, urban commuting, e-bikes, and more.
Kona Rove HD E-Bike Review: Good Bike, Great Price
The Kona Rove HD offers terrific value and an exhilarating ride experience for daily commuters and adventure riders.
Volcon Brat: An E-Bike With a Cafe-Racer Attitude
The Volcon Brat e-bike is designed to be just as capable on your commute as it is for off-road ripping.
Competitive Cyclist Cuts Prices on Helmets, Jerseys, and More for MTB Apparel Sale
The sale runs from April 14 through 24 and includes items like helmets, jerseys, shoes, and much more at considerable markdowns.
Deuter Goes Bikepacking: Waterproof Cabezon Series Review
The new Deuter Cabezon bags are lightweight, thoroughly waterproof, and well-suited for fast gravel adventures or alt-touring setups.
Camping
From rugged multiday backpacking to a weekend car-camping trip, we cover the gear you need — from tents and hammocks to stoves and sleeping bags.
Tech-Savvy, Tricked-Out: Ramble Campgrounds Go Beyond the Fire Ring
A Colorado tech company is reinventing the car-camping experience with QR codes, Starlink internet, and other cushy, convenient features.
Save Up to 30% During the Coleman Camping Kickoff Sale
The Coleman Camping Kickoff Sale runs through April 21 with gear discounted as much as 30%.
REI Unveils ‘Trailmade’ Gear With More Inclusive Sizing & Design
REI Co-op met with experienced hikers and community leaders to create a full kit that mixes comfort and performance in a wide range of sizes and builds.
Cut Trail Weight, Not Comfort: EXPED Ultra Sleeping Mat Review
EXPED Ultra’s sleeping mats are made for hikers and backpackers who consider pack size and weight their top priority when hitting the trail.
Climbing
From local crag climbing to trad epics, bouldering gym to mixed ice, we cover the gear, people, and places that define the ultimate adventure sport.
This Climber Thinks Climbing Is ‘Absolutely Pointless’
Here’s a quick treatise on whether climbing matters — er, exactly why it both does and does not.
Stay Dry in Any Alpine Storm: Mountain Hardwear Dawnlight Outerwear Review
Over 2.5 days on the Grand Teton, the Dawnlight jacket and pants combo from Mountain Hardwear effectively shielded me from every kind of precipitation in the book.
The Top 7 Bouldering Gyms in the United States
Bouldering gyms are special. Call it a vibe or a feeling or a sense of community built on this shared passion that you might not get in the mega-gyms.
Heinous Highball Bouldering in Bishop With Timmy Kang
Among climbers, Bishop, Calif., is famous for its gigantic, egg-shaped boulders. How about sending five of the hardest climbs there in a single day?
Fitness
We cover fitness, nutrition, training, wellness, and health with a focus on gear, tips, and techniques to maximize performance in your outdoor pursuits.
The Top 7 Bouldering Gyms in the United States
Bouldering gyms are special. Call it a vibe or a feeling or a sense of community built on this shared passion that you might not get in the mega-gyms.
The Best Running Hats of 2023
Whether pounding the pavement or hitting the trail, we’ve found the best running hats for every use and budget.
The Best Bone Conduction Headphones of 2023
Rock out to your playlist while staying aware of your surroundings. These are the best bone conduction headphones of 2023.
The Best Trail Running Shoes for Women in 2023
From muddy local trails to epic mountain runs, we’ve found the best trail running shoes for women.
Knives
From fixed-blade masterpieces of exotic steel to everyday folding knives, GearJunkie covers knives, axes, and multitools from the best makers in the world.
The Benchmade Narrows Resets the Engineering Bar
Unbelievably thin yet strong, the Benchmade Narrows is a feat of engineering and one of the best new knives on the market.
Forget Finesse — This Knife Is for Brute Force: Civivi Concept 22 Fixed-Blade Review
Unorthodox styling mixes with an irresistible desire for work in the tomahawk-esque Civivi Concept 22 fixed-blade knife.
One of the Best Fixed-Blade Knives of 2023: CRKT Bugsy Review
The second mass-market effort from designer Kaila Cumings is even better than her first. In fact, it’s almost perfect.
Half Knife, Half Axe: CRKT ‘Razel-Nax’ Review
This hybrid tool may look unorthodox at first, but its utility is virtually unparalleled.
Motors
Whether getting your family to the local trailhead, rock crawling in Moab, overlanding in a far corner of the globe, or laying down some rubber at the track, GearJunkie Motors is your source for automotive adventure.
Renting With Outdoorsy: How Peer-to-Peer Campervan Rentals Work
There are lots of ways to experience van life, including renting one just for the night. The Outdoorsy platform is one way to do it.
2023 Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X145 Review: 4-Season Overland Trailer
Four-season, fully equipped, high-end off-road camper trailer put to the test. The Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X145 is ready for your next overland adventure.
2024 Polaris RZR XP 1000 Review: Ready for Longer, Faster, More Comfortable Trail Days
Polaris has reexamined what made the RZR XP a success, and then worked to bring riders more of what they loved.
No Money, No Problem: Watch onX Ambassadors Build and Run Budget Off-Road Rigs
You don’t need gadzooks of cash to build a capable off-road vehicle. Three onX ambassador teams show us how it’s done.
Camper & RV
Looking for tiny tow-behinds, Class A cruisers, or overland adventure vehicles? We cover campers, RVs, van life, safety, destinations, and off-grid living.
Renting With Outdoorsy: How Peer-to-Peer Campervan Rentals Work
There are lots of ways to experience van life, including renting one just for the night. The Outdoorsy platform is one way to do it.
Tech-Savvy, Tricked-Out: Ramble Campgrounds Go Beyond the Fire Ring
A Colorado tech company is reinventing the car-camping experience with QR codes, Starlink internet, and other cushy, convenient features.
2023 Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X145 Review: 4-Season Overland Trailer
Four-season, fully equipped, high-end off-road camper trailer put to the test. The Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X145 is ready for your next overland adventure.
New Choice for AWD Sprinters: Outside Van Expands Offerings
After a decade and a half of custom van conversions, Outside Van will soon offer two production AWD camper vans, the Approach and the Syncline.
Outdoor
Outdoor activities like hiking, backpacking, camping, hunting, and fishing are core to GearJunkie’s coverage. Gear up and get out on your adventures.
Tech-Savvy, Tricked-Out: Ramble Campgrounds Go Beyond the Fire Ring
A Colorado tech company is reinventing the car-camping experience with QR codes, Starlink internet, and other cushy, convenient features.
Stay Dry in Any Alpine Storm: Mountain Hardwear Dawnlight Outerwear Review
Over 2.5 days on the Grand Teton, the Dawnlight jacket and pants combo from Mountain Hardwear effectively shielded me from every kind of precipitation in the book.
The Best Hunting Blinds of 2023
Using a hunting blind is a tried and true method hunters have long used to find success. We’ve compiled a list of the top blinds to keep you hidden in 2023.
The Best Satellite Messengers of 2023
Satellite messengers started with the need for reliable emergency contact, but have expanded beyond emergency needs into full-blown two-way communication devices. While every satellite messenger…
Technology
Capture your trip, stay in touch, and track your training. We cover the best tech products including cameras, beacons, smartwatches, apps, and more.
The Best Satellite Messengers of 2023
Satellite messengers started with the need for reliable emergency contact, but have expanded beyond emergency needs into full-blown two-way communication devices. While every satellite messenger…
The Best Bone Conduction Headphones of 2023
Rock out to your playlist while staying aware of your surroundings. These are the best bone conduction headphones of 2023.
Infinite Battery Life — And a Built-In Flashlight? Garmin Introduces the Instinct 2X Solar
What good is a GPS smartwatch in the wilderness if you have to charge it every night? The Garmin Instinct 2X Solar keeps you running.
The Best Headlamps of 2023
We tested the best headlamps of 2023 with options for every budget. Top picks include BioLite, Black Diamond, and more!
Travel
Our staff has gone around the world and back to find great adventure destinations, travel pro tips, and the best gear for the trip of a lifetime.
‘Gate Change Gnar’: Trending Strava Segment Sends Runners Flocking to Denver Airport
Flight delay? Thanks to a new Strava segment, that’s the perfect time to train.
The Most Expensive, Versatile Storage Bin Ever: RUX 70L Review
Durable and waterproof, the RUX 70L is a big do-everything option for packing, hauling, and storing your gear — with a price tag to match.
Doggo Bouncy House Looks Cozy, but Will Spot Just Eat It?
This inflatable kennel launched a debate in our editorial department — can anything that holds air stand up to a pooch’s committed gnawing?
Off-Pavement Adventure Planning Has Never Been Easier: onX Offroad Route Builder Has Arrived
The onX Offroad app brings easy-to-use Route Builder to your browser and smartphone with a wealth of crucial information.
Hunting
GearJunkie is your expert source for hunting news. Discover the best knives, apparel, and more. Learn from hunting pros and guides about bows, ammunition, and gear.
The Best Hunting Blinds of 2023
Using a hunting blind is a tried and true method hunters have long used to find success. We’ve compiled a list of the top blinds to keep you hidden in 2023.
Fan-Favorite Harness Redux: FHF Gear’s FOB Bino Is Epic
FHF Gear hit it out of the park with the new FOB Bino Harness. This is the star of chest rigs to protect your optics.
The Best Archery Targets of 2023
A good archery target is one of your tickets to consistent accuracy with a bow and arrow. Here are our picks for the best archery targets of 2023.
Infinite Battery Life — And a Built-In Flashlight? Garmin Introduces the Instinct 2X Solar
What good is a GPS smartwatch in the wilderness if you have to charge it every night? The Garmin Instinct 2X Solar keeps you running.
Packs
From hydration daypacks for the ultramarathoner to 100L porteurs for arctic expeditions, GearJunkie covers packs and luggage for every adventure.
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.
The Best Backpack Coolers of 2023
We tested the best backpack coolers of 2022 with styles for every budget. Top picks include OtterBox, YETI, and more!
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.
The Best Fanny Packs of 2023
We’ve found the best adventure fanny packs of 2023 for every budget. Top picks include Mountainsmith, Cotopaxi, and more!
Water
From serene backwater paddles to surfing epic curls, GearJunkie covers watercraft, accessories, and adventure from lakes and rivers to ocean surf.
Dale ‘Greybeard’ Sanders: The Man, the Myth, the Mississippi
Dale ‘Greybeard’ Sanders’ motto is, “Someday I’ll get old.” His latest expedition proves that nothing can hold this octogenarian paddler back.
Explore Hundreds of Miles of Whitewater in ‘Coast Mountain Chronicles’
Expansive, wild, scenic, steep, deep, inspiring. NRS holds nothing back in its upcoming whitewater film.
Free Gear Fridays: Win a Pair of XTRATUF Après Fish Slides
This week, three lucky winners will win a pair of XTRATUF Après Fish Slides.
Resurrecting Long Plank Canoes: California’s Chumash Tomol Builder Pays Homage
Alan Salazar has been building authentic Chumash canoe tomols since 1997 and recreating a treacherous journey his Native American ancestors used them to make.
Apparel
The most important outdoor gear is what we wear. From technical apparel to performance fabrics, these products push the needle on innovation and style.
How an Art Student Set the Course for 50 Years of Patagonia Product Photography
“He hung out with us for four years, and out of that came 4,500 photographs, pretty much every one of which was perfect.”
Jack Wolfskin Tapeless Jacket, 2.0 — All the Protection, None of the Seams
Jack Wolfskin makes this shell with no seams, and no seam tape. Here’s how the welded-fabric invention performed when subjected to rain and snow.
Stay Dry in Any Alpine Storm: Mountain Hardwear Dawnlight Outerwear Review
Over 2.5 days on the Grand Teton, the Dawnlight jacket and pants combo from Mountain Hardwear effectively shielded me from every kind of precipitation in the book.
The Best Running Hats of 2023
Whether pounding the pavement or hitting the trail, we’ve found the best running hats for every use and budget.
Footwear
From trail-running shoes to winter boots, waterproof hikers, fishing waders, and minimalist and barefoot shoes, we cover footwear from pavement to peak.
Kestrel BOA: Five Ten’s First Clip-In Bike Shoe Has Fat Lugs, Slick Style
The Kestrel BOA is a clipless option for hard-charging XC riders who typically ride flats. Can Five Ten make a convert out of you?
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.
The Best Trail Running Shoes for Women in 2023
From muddy local trails to epic mountain runs, we’ve found the best trail running shoes for women.
Free Gear Fridays: Win a Pair of XTRATUF Après Fish Slides
This week, three lucky winners will win a pair of XTRATUF Après Fish Slides.
Endurance
Endurance events like ultramarathons and adventure racing test the limits of human performance. Get inspired, train, and gear up for these growing sports.
The Best Running Hats of 2023
Whether pounding the pavement or hitting the trail, we’ve found the best running hats for every use and budget.
‘The Allies’: Story of True Friendship Between Training Partners and IRONMAN Champs
What could be better than training for IRONMAN races in the Canary Islands? Doing it alongside your favorite companion, that’s what.
Win Eliud Kipchoge’s Gear: Record-Setting Marathoner to Give Away Signed Jersey, COROS Watch, and More
You don’t even need to pay for a chance at winning the gear. Just an email and a location will suffice.
The Best Foam Rollers of 2023
We tested the best foam rollers for 2023 with options for any budget. Top picks include TriggerPoint, Hyperice, and more.
Food / Hydration
Outdoor athletes use endurance and recovery drinks, snacks, gels, and bars to keep going and rebound. CBD, camp food, and coolers are in the mix as well.
The Best Insulated Water Bottles of 2023
We tested the best insulated water bottles for 2023 with options for every budget. Top picks include YETI, Hydro Flask, and more!
The Best Backpack Coolers of 2023
We tested the best backpack coolers of 2022 with styles for every budget. Top picks include OtterBox, YETI, and more!
The Best Soft Coolers of 2023
We tested the best soft coolers of 2022 with styles for every budget and adventure. Top picks include OtterBox, YETI, and more.
The Best Camping Stoves of 2023
We tested the best camping stoves from Coleman, Camp Chef, Primus, and more for this review. Check it out to see how each performs and which stove came out on top.
Slacklining
This unique activity involves walking and tricks on suspended webbing. Close to the ground or at dizzying heights, we cover slacklining gear and glory.
Highline Highlights: Watch World’s Best Highliners Go HAM in Championships
A lot of us already thought highlining was pretty impressive. Check out what the best ‘Speed’ and ‘Freestyle’ athletes in the biz can do.
Delica Like No Other: This 1988 Mitsubishi Might Be the Most Impressive Van Life Build Ever
A rare 1988 Mitsubishi Delica has hundreds of custom features and modifications — maybe more than any other van of its kind in the world.
Extreme Sports: Slacklining Over the Arctic Circle
This 10-minute documentary tells the story of six adventurers who attempt to slackline over the Arctic.
Watch ‘Untethered’: The Terrifying Art of Free Solo Slacklining
Spencer Seabrook set the world record for the longest free solo highline in Squamish, British Columbia, in 2015. Watch him walk a 200-foot line without safety equipment 750 feet above the ground.
Sunglasses
GearJunkie covers sunglasses and goggles for every sport and style. Stay up to date on trends and technology in eye protection with our news and reviews.
This Deal’s a Steal: Glare-Cutting, UV-Blocking Sunglasses for Fishing
Find great deals on outdoor gear. That’s our goal each week. This week, save on fishing sunglasses.
The Perfect All-Condition Alpine Sunglasses: Dynafit Ultra Pro Review
The photochromic powers of the Dynafit Ultra Pro sunglasses are nearly unbeatable. For me, they worked for everything from shady and cloudy ski days to high-exertion climbing in full sun.
Smith Pursuit Review: Alpine Eyewear Blends Goggles and Glasses Into One
I was packing for a snowmobiling trip when the new Smith Pursuit eyewear arrived at my door. After opening it, I pulled my goggles and sunglasses out of my pack and added the Pursuit instead. It’s one piece of eyewear that can function as two.
Shimano Offers 6 Vision Options in Upgrades to Cycling Eyewear
The Japanese bike company launches second-gen upgrades to both its premium and consumer models of cycling eyewear.
Kids Gear
Whether getting your grom on a balance bike or helping your teenager train for a triathlon, GearJunkie covers the gear and goods specific to kids.
Patagonia Recalls Infant Base Layers for Possible Choking Hazard
The snaps in the bodysuit of the recalled base layer sets can detach, posing a choking hazard if mouthed by infants, Patagonia said.
The Best Kids’ Fitness Trackers of 2023
There is a select market of fitness trackers designed specifically to help kids get active in a fun and exciting way. Check out our list of the best ones!
Fend Off Winter Weather With Phunkshun Wear
For more than a decade, Phunkshun Wear has made its ski and snowboard face masks in America. Suit up this winter to block the chill.
How to Van Life With Kids: Tips and Gear for Family Life on the Road
Van life with kids isn’t easy, but it can be very rewarding. These are our first-hand experiences, tips, tricks, and gear recommendations.
Holiday
GearJunkie experts craft gift guides and gather holiday deals to help you shop for the special outdoorsperson in your life — or spoil yourself!
The YakAttack Ultimate Giveaway: Win $5K in Kayaking & Fishing Gear
The countdown is on. Only 19 days remain to enter for your chance to win a fully loaded Christmas kayak giveaway from Yakattack.
The Best Fly Fishing Gifts of 2022
Fly fishing gifts are notoriously difficult to shop for. We can help you find the gear that is sure to please the fisherman in your life.
From a Reclining Camp Chair to Kickass Layers: Best Gifts for Outdoorsy Moms
She’s not a regular mom. She’s a cool mom. You know the type. Let us help you find an awesome gift that any rad mom would be stoked to unwrap.
Black Friday 2022: Can’t-Miss Motorcycle Gear Deals
Black Friday deals on motorcycle gear not to be missed, and hand chosen by GearJunkie’s Powersports Editor, Heather Lea.
Olympics
Win an Olympic E-Medal Without Leaving Your Couch: IOC Launches ‘Esports’ Games
The Olympic (video) Games? Exactly, says one of the world’s most esteemed sports organizers.
You Could Be in the 2028 Olympics: US Team Opens Track Cycling Test to Public
The Search for Speed initiative is all about discovering talent hiding in L.A.’s diverse communities for the 2028 Track Cycling Olympic Team.
US Freeski Olympian Alex Hall Answers GearJunkie’s Burning Questions
Ever wonder how professional skiers make it big? How about how to train for big air? Check out our interview with gold medalist Alex Hall.
A New Era of Freeriding: FIS Acquires Freeride World Tour, Paving Road to Olympics
The FIS acquired the Freeride World Tour, and the future of freeride skiing and boarding is looking brighter than ever.
Outdoor Retailer
Industry heavyweights mingle with up-and-comers to show off their new offerings in apparel and equipment at the Outdoor Retailer trade shows.
Best in Show Gear: Editor Picks From Outdoor Retailer Winter 2023
Outdoor Retailer’s Salt Lake City homecoming may have been smaller than usual, but brands big and small still wowed us with the latest gear.
Outdoor Retailer Parent Company Acquires Overland Expo Series
Emerald, the company responsible for some of the outdoor industry’s biggest events, just expanded into the consumer-facing overlanding world.
After Pandemic Shutdown, Vasque Reopens Online Shopping
When COVID-19 wrecked markets, many brands turned to e-commerce. Vasque went the other direction; now, the boot maker goes back online.
Mt. Rainier, Glacier, Banff & More: Swiftwick Expands National Park Socks
Show off your national park pride with Swiftwick’s colorful new sock designs. Never-before-featured parks include Glacier, Death Valley, and Mt. Rainier.
Deals
GearJunkie’s bargain-hunters find the best deals on the outdoor gear you need. Sales from leading brands save you money so you can get out more.
Save Up to 30% During the Coleman Camping Kickoff Sale
The Coleman Camping Kickoff Sale runs through April 21 with gear discounted as much as 30%.
Weekly Deals: REI Spring Bike Sale, Meier Demo Skis, and More
Find great deals on outdoor gear. That’s our goal each week. This week, save one-bikes, demo skis, and more.
Late-Season Steals on Ski and Snowboard Gear
Find great deals on outdoor gear. That’s our goal each week. This week, save on late season ski supplies.
Top Deals on Eureka Camp Grill, Bluetooth Fire Pit, and More Homey Campground Essentials
Find great deals on outdoor gear. That’s our goal each week. This week, save on camping gear and accessories.
Lifestyle
Carry a knife every day? Wear a parka to the bar? Where wilderness meets fashion, explore the outdoor lifestyle. We coined the term “lumbersexual.”
tentree ‘Ocean Collection’ Revitalizes Kelp, Coral Habitats
The ‘Ocean Collection’ will help fund kelp planting and coral habitat restoration.
The Best Women’s Flannel Shirts of 2023
We found the best women’s flannel shirts of 2023 for every budget, including top picks from Patagonia, Carhartt, and more.
From Cozy to Sporty: 8 Valentine’s Day Gear Gifts From lululemon
Lululemon has Valentine’s Day gift ideas selected from its popular athletic apparel and comfort-minded layers.
Fun and Functional: 10 Women-Owned Brands You’ve Likely Never Heard Of
Wanting something beyond the run-of-the-mill apparel for women? Then check out these 10 women-owned outdoor brands you probably haven’t heard of.
