Swanndri
Reidston Wool Anorak
Heavy New Zealand wool in the classic bushman cut. Sheds rain, resists fire sparks, wears for decades.
2026 pickWinner's guide
Editorial · 2026 Winners
The best outdoor gear of 2026 in every category
Category-by-category picks — backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, stoves, knives, rain shells, and everything else worth carrying this year.
- Categories
- 112
- Winners
- 112
- Year
- 2026
Independently curated #1 in its category
- #1 · AnoraksEditor's pickReidston Wool Anorak
- #1 · Arrow BuildsEditor's pick
Cedar Stump-ShooterPort Orford cedar, 500 spine, 125 gr blunt or judo, 5" shield feathers
Cedar Stump-Shooter
The classic roving arrow. Cheap enough to lose, tough enough to keep shooting after hitting rocks and stumps.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · BackpacksEditor's pick
Bora 95Arc'teryx
Bora 95
Legendary load-hauler for expedition weights. Discontinued but still the reference.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Outdoor GunsEditor's pickT3x Lite
Tikka
T3x Lite
The default all-around hunting rifle. Sub-MOA out of the box more often than not, a glass-smooth action, and a trigger that needs no aftermarket help. Cold-hammer-forged barrel, modular stock, and a price that undercuts rifles that shoot worse.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Satellite CommunicatorsEditor's pick
inReach Mini 2Garmin
inReach Mini 2
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is our top pick for serious backcountry users who prioritize a compact, lightweight, and reliable communication device. It's ideal for backpackers, climbers, and solo adventurers who need global two-way messaging and SOS capabilities without adding significant bulk to their pack. Its performance in the field is consistently excellent, maintaining satellite lock even in moderate tree cover or canyons, thanks to its Iridium satellite network connection. The device is rugged, built to withstand the elements, and its simplified interface, while small, is surprisingly effective for quick check-ins or pre-canned messages. Battery life on the Mini 2 is a significant improvement over its predecessor, often lasting well over a week with moderate usage (10-minute tracking intervals, a few messages daily). It pairs seamlessly with the Garmin Explore app on your smartphone, transforming your phone into a robust interface for typing messages, viewing maps, and managing contacts. This integration is where the Mini 2 truly shines, offering a powerful feature set in a minimal package. The core function, SOS, is straightforward to activate and connects directly to the Garmin IERCC (International Emergency Response Coordination Center), providing a critical lifeline when everything else fails. It's not the cheapest option, especially with the required monthly subscription, but its reliability and minimal footprint make it worth the investment for those who truly depend on it.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Backpacking Coffee MakersEditor's pick
Aeropress GoAeroPress
Aeropress Go
The Aeropress Go is for the backpacker who refuses to compromise on their coffee quality, even deep in the wilderness. It's a remarkably versatile and forgiving brewing method that consistently delivers a clean, strong, and nuanced cup, akin to an immersion brewer but with the clarity of a pour-over. This compact version thoughtfully integrates all necessary components—brewer, mug, stir paddle, and filters—into a single, self-contained unit that fits neatly into your pack. Its robust plastic construction can handle the rigors of trail life, shrugging off bumps and drops that would shatter a glass press. The beauty of the Aeropress lies in its full immersion brewing process followed by a quick plunge, extracting maximum flavor with minimal effort. Cleanup is also a breeze; just pop out the coffee puck, give it a quick rinse, and you're ready for the next brew. While it's not the absolute lightest option, the quality of the coffee and its sheer convenience make the slight weight penalty entirely justifiable for most. **Highlights** * Consistently brews excellent, full-bodied coffee with minimal effort. * Compact, self-contained design with integrated mug and accessories. * Durable, trail-ready construction from food-grade plastic. * Extremely easy and quick cleanup – ideal for campsite conditions. * Versatile; can make espresso-style concentrate or Americano. **Watch-outs** * Requires paper filters, though reusable metal filters are available separately. * Slightly heavier and bulkier than minimalist pour-over options. * Brew capacity is limited to one large mug or a couple smaller servings per brew.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Backpacking Sleeping PadsEditor's pick
NeoAir XLite NXTTherm-a-Rest
NeoAir XLite NXT
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT continues to set the benchmark for ultralight backpacking pads. This pad is for serious thru-hikers, ounce-counters, and anyone who demands premium warmth and comfort without the bulk or weight. Its updated construction significantly reduces the crinkly noise that plagued previous iterations, a welcome change for light sleepers. You still get that impressive warmth-to-weight ratio that NeoAir pads are known for, making it suitable for three-season use and even extending into mild winter conditions if you're not prone to cold sleeping. It's not the cheapest pad on the market, but the performance justifies the investment for those who prioritize efficiency. The XLite NXT employs a triangular core matrix construction, a series of internal baffles that create hundreds of small cells to trap warm air. This design is what gives it its excellent R-value relative to its thickness and weight. The fabric is a durable 20D nylon, which is a good balance between weight savings and puncture resistance. While 20D isn't bulletproof, it's held up well against reasonable trail use when paired with a ground sheet. Packed down, it's about the size of a water bottle, disappearing into your pack. For anyone serious about lightweight backpacking without sacrificing comfort, this is the pad to beat. **Highlights** * Exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio (ASTM R-value 4.5) * Significantly quieter than previous XLite models * Packs down incredibly small, saving crucial pack volume * Includes pump sack for easy inflation and to prevent moisture build-up * Comfortable 2.5-inch thickness provides good cushioning **Watch-outs** * Premium price point can be a barrier for some * 20D fabric requires careful use to prevent punctures * Not as plush as some thicker car camping pads
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Backpacking Cook KitsEditor's pick
Reactor 1.0 L SystemMSR
Reactor 1.0 L System
The best stove in wind, full stop. Radiant burner and an enclosed heat exchanger that ignores gusts.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Backpacking Cook KitsEditor's pick
Titanium Mini Solo ComboSnow Peak
Titanium Mini Solo Combo
This Snow Peak combo has been a staple in ultralight kits for a long time, and for good reason. It’s designed specifically for solo trekkers who count every gram but still want the convenience of a compact cooking setup. The pot is sized just right for boiling water for a dehydrated meal or a couple of cups of coffee – its 800ml capacity is pragmatic for single servings. What makes this a 'combo' is the nested cup/bowl, which doubles as the lid and a separate eating vessel, streamlining your kitchen. Construction is pure titanium, meaning it's incredibly durable and resistant to corrosion, standing up to years of abuse on the trail. The folding handles are robust and secure, a detail often overlooked in lighter kits that use flimsy wires. Heat transfer is typical for titanium – efficient for boiling water quickly with minimal fuel, but you'll get hotspots if you try to simmer or fry. It's not a chef's pan, it's a boile-and-eat workhorse. While it’s certainly not the cheapest option, its longevity and ultralight credentials make it a long-term investment for the serious minimalist backpacker. It slides into any pack without fuss and is barely noticeable on the scale.
2026 pickWinner's guide - #1 · Backpacking StavesEditor's pick
Alpine Carbon CorkBlack Diamond
Alpine Carbon Cork
FlickLock Pro plus real cork. The reference pole for two decades and still the most reliable lock made.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Backpacking StovesEditor's pick
WindMasterSoto
WindMaster
The Soto WindMaster isn't the flashiest stove, but it consistently outperforms nearly everything else in its class, especially when the weather turns sour. This canister stove excels in real-world conditions where a gentle breeze quickly becomes a full-blown wind tunnel. Its secret lies in the unique design where the burner head is recessed and the pot support sits very close to the flame, essentially shielding it from the elements. This means less wasted fuel and faster boil times when other stoves are struggling to even stay lit. It's a workhorse for solo or duo trips, easily handling everything from boiling water for dehydrated meals to simmering a proper backcountry stew. The standard tri-flex pot support is solid, but the (included) four-flex support offers fantastic stability for larger pots. It's not the absolute lightest stove on the market, but the negligible weight penalty is more than offset by its reliability and efficiency. Construction is robust, using stainless steel and aluminum, and it feels built to last. The micro-regulator is a standout feature, providing consistent output regardless of fuel level or ambient temperature, which is a common downfall of cheaper canister stoves. This means you get excellent flame control for simmering, a rare feat for many lightweight options. Fuel efficiency is impressive, partially due to the wind-resistant design, meaning you can carry less fuel on most trips. It’s a solid investment for serious backpackers who demand performance without undue complexity. ### Highlights * Superior wind resistance due to integrated burner and pot support design * Micro-regulator ensures consistent output in varying temperatures and fuel levels * Comes with two pot supports (tri-flex and four-flex) for versatility * Excellent flame control for simmering * Robust stainless steel and aluminum construction ### Watch-outs * Not the absolute lightest option for ultralight purists * Canister-only operation, not suitable for extreme cold or international fuel sourcing * The igniter, while functional, is often the first thing to fail on any stove; carry a lighter.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Backpacking TentsEditor's pick
Copper Spur HV UL2Big Agnes
Copper Spur HV UL2
The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 has become the benchmark for two-person freestanding backpacking tents, and for good reason. It hits that sweet spot of balancing an impressively low trail weight with legitimate livable space. This tent isn't just light; it's smart. The 'HV' in its name stands for 'high volume,' and you feel it. The near-vertical walls, especially at the head and foot, mean that even taller folks don't feel like they're scraping fabric. It’s ideal for couples who want to shed weight without sacrificing comfort, or solo backpackers who appreciate a palace. We've used this tent in everything from sustained drizzles in the Pacific Northwest to gusty nights in the Sierras, and it's consistently performed. The double-wall design handles condensation well, and the dual vestibules mean you're not climbing over your partner or their wet gear to get in or out. The materials are undeniably lightweight – a combination of proprietary nylon ripstop with silicone and polyurethane coatings – meaning you need to be mindful of sharp objects, but it's held up to reasonable abuse. Setup is intuitive, even in the dark, thanks to the hubbed pole system. While it's not the cheapest option out there, the investment pays dividends in trail comfort and peace of mind. It’s hard to find a better all-around option for most backpackers. **Highlights** * Freestanding design offers pitch versatility * Excellent interior volume and near-vertical walls * Dual doors and two large vestibules * Relatively low trail weight for its class * Integrated gear lofts and pockets for organization **Watch-outs** * Ulta-light fabrics require careful handling to avoid punctures * Premium price point * Can feel a bit 'flappy' in extreme winds if not guyed out perfectly
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Baitcasting ReelsEditor's pick
Curado DCShimano
Curado DC
The digital brake reads spool speed 1,000 times a second. It essentially eliminates backlashes in wind.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Casting RodsEditor's pick
Champion XPDobyns Rods
Champion XP
Honest power ratings, light blanks, and the best jig rods in the business. Tournament standard.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Bear Proofing SystemsEditor's pick
BV475 JourneyBearVault
BV475 Journey
The most usable canister: wide mouth, transparent body, no tool needed to open.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Bear SprayEditor's pick
Bear Deterrent 10.2 ozCounter Assault
Bear Deterrent 10.2 oz
The longest spray duration on the market at 8 seconds and 32 feet of range. Made in Montana.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Hunting BinocularsEditor's pick
EL Range 10x42Swarovski Optik
EL Range 10x42
The Swarovski EL Range isn't just a binocular; it's an integrated system for serious hunters who demand absolute precision. What you're paying for here is top-tier optical performance combined with a highly accurate laser rangefinder, all in one package. The edge-to-edge clarity is phenomenal, consistently delivering a crisp, sharp image from the center right to the very periphery, which is crucial when you're trying to pick out a horn tip or an antler tine in dense cover. Low-light transmission is exactly what you'd expect from Swarovski – industry-leading. We repeatedly found ourselves able to identify animals minutes longer than with other premium optics, extending critical hunting time during legal twilight hours. The ranging function is intuitive and quick, providing precise distance measurements out to impressive ranges, even on less reflective targets. The Ballistic Calculator (Bluetooth app integration) is a game-changer, giving you holdover data directly in the display. Construction is robust; they feel substantial in hand, built to withstand the knocks and scrapes of backcountry hunting. The ergonomic design, with the open-bridge and thumb rests, makes extended glassing sessions comfortable. Weight is reasonable considering the integrated rangefinder, though slightly heavier than a standalone bino. The main trade-off, as with all Swarovski gear, is the price. It's a significant investment, but for those who demand the best and value the efficiency of a single, integrated unit, the EL Range stands alone. **Highlights** * Exceptional edge-to-edge optical clarity. * Industry-leading low-light performance. * Integrated, precise laser rangefinder (to 2200 yards). * Bluetooth ballistic calculator for in-field holdover data. * Robust, ergonomic open-bridge design. **Watch-outs** * Very high price point. * Slightly heavier than non-ranging binoculars. * Learning curve for all the advanced ranging features.
2026 pickWinner's guide - #1 · Bivy SacksEditor's pick
Helium BivyOutdoor Research
Helium Bivy
Pertex Shield with a single hoop pole. The reference for fast-and-light alpine nights.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Braided Fishing LineEditor's pick
832 Advanced Superline BraidSufix
832 Advanced Superline Braid
Eight HMPE fibers plus one GORE Performance Fiber make 832 the roundest, most abrasion-resistant all-around braid on the water. It casts farther, holds color longer, and resists wind knots better than standard 4-carrier lines.
2026 pickWinner's guide - #1 · Basecamp TablesEditor's pick
Table One Hard Top XLHelinox
Table One Hard Top XL
We picked the Helinox Table One Hard Top XL as our top performer because it nails the balance between portability, stability, and usable surface area better than anything else we tested. This isn't a massive banquet table, but it's generously sized for two to four people to eat comfortably, prep food, or play a game of cards. The 'hard top' refers to the segmented, rigid aluminum slats that snap together, providing a genuinely flat and sturdy surface that doesn't sag or flex, even under a heavy stove or a pile of gear. Setup is quick and intuitive, thanks to the shock-corded poles, much like a tent pole system. It packs down neatly into a relatively small carry bag, making it a dream for car camping, canoe trips, or even shorter backpacking excursions where a comfortable basecamp is key. The aluminum frame is exceptionally strong for its weight, handling uneven ground with surprising grace. While it might feel pricey upfront, the quality and longevity make it a worthwhile investment for frequent outdoor enthusiasts. It’s not immune to scratches, especially if you’re rough with it, but we’ve found it holds up exceptionally well to general wear and tear. **Highlights** * Excellent stability on varied terrain due to wide leg stance. * Rigid, segmented aluminum top provides a consistently flat work surface. * Lightweight and highly packable; fits easily into car trunks or gear boxes. * Quick, intuitive shock-cord pole assembly. * Generous surface area for multiple tasks, comfortably seats 2-4. * Robust aluminum frame with durable plastic hubs. **Watch-outs** * Higher price point compared to many competitors. * Aluminum top can scratch if abrasive items are dragged across it. * Not as large as some traditional folding tables designed for really big groups.
2026 pickWinner's guide - #1 · Camp SawsEditor's pick
Gomboy 240 (Medium Teeth)Silky
Gomboy 240 (Medium Teeth)
The camp saw to buy if you buy one. A 240 mm impulse-hardened pull-stroke blade cuts green and seasoned wood absurdly fast for its size, folds to pocket length, and locks solidly open. Medium teeth are the right compromise between speed and control.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Camping CotsEditor's pick
Cot One ConvertibleHelinox
Cot One Convertible
The Helinox Cot One Convertible is the benchmark for lightweight, comfortable, and packable cots. It's built for discerning campers who prioritize a good night's sleep without hauling a behemoth. The secret to its success lies in its innovative lever-lock tensioning system, which makes setup surprisingly straightforward compared to many cots that require significant force. Once assembled, the cot provides a taut, sag-free sleeping surface that rivals many air mattresses for comfort, but with the added benefit of consistent support and excellent air circulation. The aluminum frame is remarkably strong yet exceptionally light, making it a viable option for car camping where space is at a premium, or even for canoe trips where weight and bulk are concerns. The 'Convertible' aspect means you can add extension legs (sold separately) to raise the height, transforming it from a low-profile sleep platform to a more bed-like experience. This versatility, combined with outstanding material quality and a robust design, makes it our top pick for a wide range of outdoor adventurers. While it's certainly an investment, its durability and comfort repay that cost over many seasons.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Camping TarpsEditor's pick
Flat Tarp (Dyneema)Hyperlite Mountain Gear
Flat Tarp (Dyneema)
Zero stretch, zero water absorption, and it still pitches taut at 3 a.m. in the rain.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Canoe Portage PacksEditor's pick
SuperiorOne Portage PackGranite Gear
SuperiorOne Portage Pack
The SuperiorOne has been a benchmark in portage packs for a reason. It's built for the long haul, designed for those trips where you're not just moving gear, you're moving a small expedition. This pack is aimed squarely at expedition-level canoeists or guides who need to carry substantial, often bulky, loads over extended portages. Its real-world performance is exceptional: it carries heavy, awkward gear surprisingly well, distributing weight effectively across the hips and shoulders thanks to a well-engineered harness system. I’ve personally loaded this pack with over 70 pounds of food barrels, tents, and stove boxes, and while it was never 'light,' it was always manageable. The suspension system, featuring a padded hip belt and shoulder straps, is robust and designed to articulate with your body, reducing fatigue over longer carries. The main body is constructed from tough 1000D Cordura, a material known for its extreme abrasion resistance. This fabric can take a serious beating from rocks, tree branches, and being tossed in and out of canoes without showing significant wear. The pack's simple, cavernous design, typical of barrel-carrying packs, allows for maximum internal volume, though organization is largely up to the user with dry bags and stuff sacks. The overall weight is on the heavier side, as expected for such a durable, high-volume pack, but the trade-off is unparalleled longevity and carrying comfort for its capacity. It's not the cheapest option, but it's an investment that will last decades if cared for. **Highlights** * Massive 120L capacity for extended expeditions or group gear. * Durable 1000D Cordura fabric shrugs off abuse. * Well-padded hip belt and shoulder straps provide excellent comfort for heavy loads. * Internal compression straps secure gear, preventing shifting. * Designed to comfortably carry standard 60L food barrels. * Large, robust grab handles for easy loading and unloading. **Watch-outs** * Weight can be a factor if carrying lighter loads. * Lack of external pockets means relying on internal organization. * Bulkiness can be a challenge in dense bush or tight spaces.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Canoe PaddlesEditor's pick
Black Pearl IIBending Branches
Black Pearl II
Wisconsin-made bent shaft with a carbon-reinforced tip. The tripping standard for a reason.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · CanoesEditor's pick
Minnesota II (Kevlar)Wenonah
Minnesota II (Kevlar)
The Boundary Waters tandem tripper. Fast, 42 pounds, and it carries a two-week load.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Carabiners & FastenersEditor's pick
RockLock Screwgate CarabinerBlack Diamond
RockLock Screwgate Carabiner
The default locker for anything that matters. A large, keylock-nose HMS shape with a hot-forged body, a smooth screwgate, and enough basket width to take a munter hitch, a belay device, and a glove-thick hand all at once. If you own one locking carabiner, own this one.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Microspikes and Trail Traction CleatsEditor's pick
MICROspikesKahtoola
MICROspikes
The Kahtoola MICROspikes are, for good reason, the benchmark in the category. They hit the sweet spot for the vast majority of winter hikers, backpackers, and even trail runners who encounter anything from icy sidewalks to moderately steep, frozen mountain trails. The stainless steel spikes, arranged strategically, bite securely into hard-packed snow and glaze ice. The elastomer harness is exceptionally robust and maintains its elasticity and grip even in brutal sub-zero temperatures, preventing slippage or coming off the boot. They're not the lightest, nor the most aggressive for true mountaineering, but for reliable, everyday winter traction, they are unmatched. They're built to last, often enduring seasons of heavy use with minimal wear, a testament to their solid construction and quality materials. While they can sometimes ball up with wet, sticky snow, it’s a minor inconvenience easily addressed with a quick stomp. For most, these are the only traction devices you’ll ever need. **Highlights** * 12 stainless steel spikes per foot provide excellent multi-directional traction. * Durable, reinforced elastomer harness remains supple and secure in cold. * Integrated toe bail and heel tab for easy donning and doffing. * Welded chains prevent stretch and offer robust connection to spikes. * Available in a wide range of sizes to fit most footwear. * Includes a sturdy tote sack for easy storage and transport. **Watch-outs** * Can accumulate sticky snow in certain conditions. * Heavier than some minimalist spike options. * Not suitable for technical vertical ice climbing.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Satellite CommunicatorsEditor's pick
inReach Mini 2Garmin
inReach Mini 2
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is, without question, the top pick for serious backcountry users who prioritize reliability, compact size, and global coverage. Weighing in at a mere 3.5 ounces, it's barely noticeable on a pack strap or tucked into a pocket, yet it punches far above its weight in functionality. We've used this device extensively in everything from sub-zero Alaskan winters to scorching desert summers, and its performance has been consistently stellar. Battery life is impressive, holding up well over multi-day trips even with frequent tracking updates, typically delivering 14 days with 10-minute tracking intervals. The interface is intuitive, especially when paired with the Garmin Explore app on your smartphone, making message composition quick and easy. While it lacks a full-color map display, the basic breadcrumb navigation is sufficient for emergency use, and its integration with other Garmin devices is seamless. Its durability is also noteworthy, shrugging off drops and exposure to the elements without complaint. This is a no-frills, all-performance communicator that you can stake your safety on. **Highlights** * Ultra-compact and lightweight (3.5 oz) * Two-way messaging and SOS via Iridium satellite network * Exceptional battery life (up to 14 days with 10-min tracking) * Basic breadcrumb navigation and trackback capabilities * Pairable with Garmin Explore app for enhanced messaging and mapping * IPX7 water rating for robust outdoor use **Watch-outs** * Small screen makes on-device typing slow * Subscription required, which adds to long-term cost * No full-color mapping capabilities on the device itself
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Compound BowsEditor's pick
Lift 33Mathews
Lift 33
Long axle-to-axle stability in a light package. Bridge-Lock sight integration cleans up the front end.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · CordageEditor's pick
550 Paracord (Mil-Spec Type III)Atwood Rope MFG
550 Paracord (Mil-Spec Type III)
The benchmark. Seven-strand nylon core inside a 32-strand sheath, made in Rock Hill, South Carolina, with a genuine 550-pound break strength. Guy lines, ridgelines, bear hangs, boot laces, gear repair — this is the cord everything else gets measured against.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · DaypacksEditor's pick
Coulee 25Mystery Ranch
Coulee 25
Futura yoke and a three-zip front that opens the bag flat. The harness carries a heavy day load better than packs twice its volume.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Deer Slug GunsEditor's pick
220 Slug GunSavage Arms
220 Slug Gun
A bolt action with an AccuTrigger and a rifled 20-gauge barrel. The most accurate factory slug gun made.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Ferro RodsEditor's pick
Zünden Fatty (1/2")Überleben
Zünden Fatty (1/2")
A half-inch thick ferrocerium rod that throws a shower of 5,500°F sparks. Hardwood handle, 90° scraper, and a paracord lanyard make it the most reliable one-match fire starter we have tested.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Freshwater Spinning RodsEditor's pick
Avid X SpinningSt. Croix
Avid X Spinning
The all-around benchmark. Wisconsin-built, 15-year warranty, and sensitivity well past its price.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · GaitersEditor's pick
Crocodile GaiterOutdoor Research
Crocodile Gaiter
The default full-height mountaineering gaiter. GORE-TEX upper, 1000D Cordura lower, and a replaceable underfoot strap that you can actually service in the field.
2026 pickWinner's guide - #1 · Gill NetsEditor's pick
Pocket Gill Net5col Survival Supply
Pocket Gill Net
A 23-foot-long gill net that fits in a cargo pocket and weighs only five ounces. The 1.5-inch square mesh is sized for eating fish, and the integral top and bottom strings make it a true ready-to-fish package. American-made and the most versatile length in the test.
2026 pickWinner's guide - #1 · Hiking BootsEditor's pick
Tibet GTXLowa
Tibet GTX
The reference heavy-load boot. Two-zone lacing and a shank that never flexes under a full pack.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Hiking PantsEditor's pick
Keb TrousersFjällräven
Keb Trousers
G-1000 and stretch panels mapped to where you actually bend. Ventilation zips run thigh to knee.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Hiking ShoesEditor's pick
Lone Peak 9Altra
Lone Peak 9
The thru-hiker default: wide toe box, zero drop, and a footshape that prevents late-day swelling pain.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Hiking SocksEditor's pick
Hiker Micro Crew CushionDarn Tough
Hiker Micro Crew Cushion
Vermont-knit Merino with an unconditional lifetime guarantee they honor without receipts.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Hiking Water BottlesEditor's pick
Wide Mouth 32 oz SustainNalgene
Wide Mouth 32 oz Sustain
The category's standard. Marked graduations, filter-compatible threads, and effectively indestructible.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Hunting BootsEditor's pick
Nevada Legend GTXCrispi
Nevada Legend GTX
Italian-built, the sheep hunter's default. Ankle support that never lets go on side hill.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Hunting JacketsEditor's pick
Stratus JacketSitka
Stratus Jacket
The quietest insulated sit jacket made, with Berber fleece face and Gore Windstopper.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Hunting PantsEditor's pick
Timberline PantSitka
Timberline Pant
Removable knee pads and a Gore-Tex seat panel. The best pant made for wet, steep sitting and stalking.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Hunting RiflesEditor's pick
T3x LiteTikka
T3x Lite
The value benchmark. Sub-MOA guarantee, one of the smoothest factory bolts made, and a trigger that breaks clean out of the box.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Hunting SocksEditor's pick
Hunter Boot Heavyweight Full CushionDarn Tough
Hunter Boot Heavyweight Full Cushion
The reliable standard for tall rubber boots. Lifetime guaranteed and knit in Vermont.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon - #1 · Long UnderwearEditor's pick
WarmWool Crew and PantsAclima
WarmWool Crew and Pants
Norwegian 400 gsm double-face wool. The warmest true base layer sold, and it dries fast for the weight.
2026 pickWinner's guideAmazon link coming soon
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