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.
Skier Dies Attempting to Jump CO Highway
On April 9, Colorado local Dallas LeBeau died while attempting a high-risk road gap stunt on Berthoud Pass.
Kick Off Camping: Free Entry at All National Parks on April 20
National Parks Week kicks off with a free entry day, and extends to April 28 with events, themed days, and volunteer opportunities.
Outdoor Afro Inc. to Co-Lead Trips With REI Adventures
Outdoor Afro helped design three new trips with REI Adventures, infusing itineraries with Black history, culture, and local businesses.
$173M in Debt: Amphibious Plane Company Files for Bankruptcy, Seeks Buyer
Icon Aircraft plans to continue making hybrid planes that can drive on road and water as it tries to manage large debt levels.
Biking
Check out news and gear reviews for mountain biking, bikepacking, road racing, winter fat biking, urban commuting, e-bikes, and more.
The Bike for Roadies Who Don’t Race: ENVE Fray First Look Review
The ENVE Fray brings an all-new endurance-focused chassis to ENVE’s lineup that skirts the line between road and gravel.
The Best Ski Pants of 2024
Whether at the resort or in the backcountry, we found the best ski pants of 2024 to fit every style, budget, and adventure.
Luxury Cycling Watches Celebrate Iconic Racers: Bravur ‘Team Heritage’ Collection
The Swedish timepieces of the Bravur Team Heritage Collection pay homage to the ‘Golden Era’ racing teams of Eddy Merckx and others.
The Best Bike Repair Stands of 2024
A bike repair stand is a necessity for any cyclist who likes to work on their bikes at home or on the road. Whether you…
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.
Knife Blades: Common Steels Explained
We looked at common steels used by popular knife brands to help you select the right material for your blade.
Kick Off Camping: Free Entry at All National Parks on April 20
National Parks Week kicks off with a free entry day, and extends to April 28 with events, themed days, and volunteer opportunities.
11 Ounces, 1,300 Gallons: LifeSaver Wayfarer Packable Water Purifier Review
Unlike other filters on the market, the LifeSaver Wayfarer blocks viruses from passing through its hollow fiber membrane filters — it’s rated to one of the highest levels of certified water protection.
The Best Camping Sleeping Bags of 2024
From versatile camping bags to wallet-friendly picks, we’ve found the best sleeping bags for every use and budget.
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.
Kick Off Camping: Free Entry at All National Parks on April 20
National Parks Week kicks off with a free entry day, and extends to April 28 with events, themed days, and volunteer opportunities.
Samaya ULTRA35 Review: Minimalist Dyneema Pack Worth Maximalist Price
The Samaya ULTRA35 combines Dyneema fabric with a tubular aluminum frame, making for a capable and ultralight alpine pack.
The Best Ski Pants of 2024
Whether at the resort or in the backcountry, we found the best ski pants of 2024 to fit every style, budget, and adventure.
‘Climbing Became Cool Because of People Like Maria:’ Q and A With ‘Mentor’ Movie Director
Maria Cranor was many things: Yosemite climber, Black Diamond co-founder, and a physicist. But to director Mike Call and many others, she was ‘The Mentor.’
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 Best Running Shorts of 2024
From sunny beaches to high alpine trails, our experts evaluated the best men’s running shorts for fit, comfort, mobility, moisture-wicking, and more.
The Best Trail Running Shoes for Women in 2024
From muddy local trails to epic mountain runs, we’ve found the best trail running shoes for women.
The Best Percussion Massagers of 2024
Ease sore muscles and enjoy a massage anywhere you go. These are the best percussion massagers of 2024 for every use and budget.
The Best CrossFit Shoes of 2024
Despite its intense reputation, CrossFit is a sport that’s accessible for people of all shapes, sizes, and skill levels, and that goes for the footwear, as well.
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.
Knife Blades: Common Steels Explained
We looked at common steels used by popular knife brands to help you select the right material for your blade.
The GiantMouse ACE Jagt Hunting Knife Makes a Damn Fine EDC
Made with hunters in mind, the GiantMouse ACE Jagt might actually be the EDC you didn’t know you needed.
4 Ways to Open, ‘Double-Safe’ Magnet Lock: Vosteed Ankylo Review
‘Steroid’ steel, aluminum, button lock, a magnet, and four ways to deploy — there’s a lot to love about the Vosteed Ankylo folding knife.
The Best Knife Sharpeners of 2024
We put our nose to the grindstone to round up the best knife sharpeners for making every edge you own a keen one.
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.
Mean Machines: Have We Reached Peak Angry Car?
It seems like most modern cars are grumpy, mad, or angry. Let’s look at the angry faces of today’s car market.
2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter: Quality Capability Upgrades From the Factory
New factory-upfitted 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter model has the hardware for real off-road adventures. Here’s what we know so far.
2025 Toyota 4Runner: What You Need to Know
The sixth-gen 2025 Toyota 4Runner has finally been revealed! Here’s all the info we know so far.
$173M in Debt: Amphibious Plane Company Files for Bankruptcy, Seeks Buyer
Icon Aircraft plans to continue making hybrid planes that can drive on road and water as it tries to manage large debt levels.
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.
2024 Camp Guide: Your Destination for All Things Camping From Backcountry
Let Backcountry be your guide to finding the camping gear that’s right for your style of sleeping outside.
Overland Expo Founder Speaks Out for Greater Land Protections
Respected overlander, hunter, and 4×4 enthusiast Jonathan Hanson makes the case for more protected wilderness, not less.
The Best Camping Lanterns of 2024
Whether heading into the backcountry or lighting up the night car camping, we’ve found the best camping lanterns for every use and budget.
4-Season, Off-Road, Off-Grid Camper Trailer: 2024 Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X195 Review
We took the Imperial Outdoors XploreRV X195 camper trailer winter camping to see if it lived up to its off-grid four-season hype.
Outdoor
Outdoor activities like hiking, backpacking, camping, hunting, and fishing are core to GearJunkie’s coverage. Gear up and get out on your adventures.
Knife Blades: Common Steels Explained
We looked at common steels used by popular knife brands to help you select the right material for your blade.
Kick Off Camping: Free Entry at All National Parks on April 20
National Parks Week kicks off with a free entry day, and extends to April 28 with events, themed days, and volunteer opportunities.
The Best Hiking Boots of 2024
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 happy and comfortable on the trail.
The GiantMouse ACE Jagt Hunting Knife Makes a Damn Fine EDC
Made with hunters in mind, the GiantMouse ACE Jagt might actually be the EDC you didn’t know you needed.
Technology
Capture your trip, stay in touch, and track your training. We cover the best tech products including cameras, beacons, smartwatches, apps, and more.
Three Time Zones, Four Hands: Zodiac Super Sea Wolf ‘GMT’ Review
Zodiac today launched a new in-house movement, the STP7-20, in the Super Sea Wolf GMT reviewed here.
Light, Compact, Right-Sized Battery: Jackery Explorer 300 Review
There are bigger and smaller batteries on the market. But the Jackery Explorer 300 reviewed here hits a nearly perfect size for so many uses.
Backpack Solar Panel Charges While You Hike: Pale Blue Earth Approach Solar Panel Review
Pale Blue Earth really surprised me with its first try at a solar panel product — one that’s designed even better than its competition.
The Best Percussion Massagers of 2024
Ease sore muscles and enjoy a massage anywhere you go. These are the best percussion massagers of 2024 for every use and budget.
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.
Low-Key Looks, High-Key Functionality: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L Review
We thoroughly tested the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L in a variety of situations, environments, and load-outs, and it carried all with ease.
The Best Backpacks of 2024
A backpack isn’t just the bag on your back — it’s a mobile home, a traveling office, and a ticket to see the world. After shouldering the best — along with the rest — we’ve found the greatest backpacks for any task.
The Best Carry-On Luggage of 2024
Carry-on luggage comes in a variety of styles, from the hardshell classics to soft-sided, duffel bags. Whether you value features like external pockets or 360-spinner wheels, internal compression, or TSA-approved locks, we’ve got you covered with our wide selection of the best carry-on luggage of 2023.
The Best Hitch Bike Racks of 2024
We reviewed the best hitch bike racks for 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Thule, RockyMounts, and more.
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 GiantMouse ACE Jagt Hunting Knife Makes a Damn Fine EDC
Made with hunters in mind, the GiantMouse ACE Jagt might actually be the EDC you didn’t know you needed.
Why Botswana’s President Just Threatened to Send 20,000 Elephants to Germany
President Mokgweetsi Masisi said the offer was ‘not a joke,’ in response to Germany’s proposed hunting trophy ban.
Vortex Eyewear: The Optics Brand Takes Aim at Shades
Vortex Optics has taken a confident leap into the sunglasses market. Today, the brand launched Vortex eyewear, and I can tell you, these shades are rad.
Overland Expo Founder Speaks Out for Greater Land Protections
Respected overlander, hunter, and 4×4 enthusiast Jonathan Hanson makes the case for more protected wilderness, not less.
Packs
From hydration daypacks for the ultramarathoner to 100L porteurs for arctic expeditions, GearJunkie covers packs and luggage for every adventure.
Low-Key Looks, High-Key Functionality: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L Review
We thoroughly tested the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L in a variety of situations, environments, and load-outs, and it carried all with ease.
The Best Backpacks of 2024
A backpack isn’t just the bag on your back — it’s a mobile home, a traveling office, and a ticket to see the world. After shouldering the best — along with the rest — we’ve found the greatest backpacks for any task.
The Best Carry-On Luggage of 2024
Carry-on luggage comes in a variety of styles, from the hardshell classics to soft-sided, duffel bags. Whether you value features like external pockets or 360-spinner wheels, internal compression, or TSA-approved locks, we’ve got you covered with our wide selection of the best carry-on luggage of 2023.
The Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2024
Head into the backcountry with the best backpacking backpacks of 2024. From budget-friendly options to ultra-comfortable picks, we’ve got you covered.
Paddling
From serene backwater paddles to surfing epic curls, GearJunkie covers watercraft, accessories, and adventure from lakes and rivers to ocean surf.
Kick Off Camping: Free Entry at All National Parks on April 20
National Parks Week kicks off with a free entry day, and extends to April 28 with events, themed days, and volunteer opportunities.
The Best Kayaks for Beginners in 2024
The sport of recreational kayaking has been rapidly growing over the past several years, and there are hundreds of kayak options on the market. Here are the best kayaks and the gear you need to get started.
‘Hallelujah’: Watch Kayakers Paddle the PNW’s Most Stunning Waterfalls
Seth Ezekiel West brings skate-style cinematography to ‘Hallelujah,’ a short film that showcases kayakers paddling the PNW’s most stunning waterfalls.
The Best Coolers of 2024
We tested the best hard coolers of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include RTIC, YETI, and more!
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.
The Best Running Shorts of 2024
From sunny beaches to high alpine trails, our experts evaluated the best men’s running shorts for fit, comfort, mobility, moisture-wicking, and more.
The Best Ski Pants of 2024
Whether at the resort or in the backcountry, we found the best ski pants of 2024 to fit every style, budget, and adventure.
The Best Women’s Ski Jackets of 2024
We tested the best women’s ski jackets of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Outdoor Research, Patagonia, and more.
The Best Women’s Ski Pants of 2024
We tested the best women’s ski pants for both resort and backcountry. Top picks are from The North Face, Arc’teryx, Helly Hansen, and more.
Footwear
From trail-running shoes to winter boots, waterproof hikers, fishing waders, and minimalist and barefoot shoes, we cover footwear from pavement to peak.
The Best Hiking Boots of 2024
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 happy and comfortable on the trail.
The Best Winter Hiking Boots of 2024
We found the best winter hiking boots for tackling snow, rain, mud, and cold. Get ready to hit the trail all season long.
The Best Trail Running Shoes for Women in 2024
From muddy local trails to epic mountain runs, we’ve found the best trail running shoes for women.
Hiking Boot Meets Marathon Running Shoe: Deckers X Lab Enduro Max Review
Looking for a hiking shoe high on performance and visually attractive to just about everyone? Meet the latest from Deckers X Lab, a crossover hiking, mountaineering, and running shoe.
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 Shorts of 2024
From sunny beaches to high alpine trails, our experts evaluated the best men’s running shorts for fit, comfort, mobility, moisture-wicking, and more.
15 Peaks, 15,000+ Vertical Feet in 12 Hours: Mammut Athlete Crushes Monster Multisport Tour
Gary Ozeray had his gaze set on a wild circumnavigation of Annecy Lake — follow him as he sets out on this wild trail running, rock climbing, mountaineering adventure to set a new record.
The Best Percussion Massagers of 2024
Ease sore muscles and enjoy a massage anywhere you go. These are the best percussion massagers of 2024 for every use and budget.
The Best CrossFit Shoes of 2024
Despite its intense reputation, CrossFit is a sport that’s accessible for people of all shapes, sizes, and skill levels, and that goes for the footwear, as well.
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 Camping Stoves of 2024
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.
The Best Coolers of 2024
We tested the best hard coolers of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include RTIC, YETI, and more!
The Best Backpacking Stoves of 2024
The right stove makes life on the trail better. From ultralight canisters to four-season and multifuel options, we’ve found and tested the best backpacking stoves.
MTN Dew Launches ‘Outdoor Gear’ Rewards — You’re Gonna Have to Drink A LOT
How many points, cans, and dollars will it take to score this MTN Dew gear? Find out!
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.
The Best Fishing Sunglasses of 2024
Sunglasses can make or break your success on the water. Without the right pair of glasses, you may not be able to get the job done.
’80s Style, Modern Tech: Costa Grand Catalina Relaunch Channels Young Tom Cruise Vibes
Classic style meets modern tech with the upgraded relaunch of the Grand Catalina frame from Costa Del Mar.
The Best Sunglasses for the Outdoors in 2024
Go beyond style with sunglasses that combine classic good looks with next-level technology and design.
Costa Sunglasses Are Wildly on Sale for Black Friday
A great pair of sunglasses often requires quite the investment. Check out these Costa Black Friday deals that will save you some serious coin.
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.
The Best Baby Carriers for Hiking in 2024
Make hiking fun for the whole family — even toddlers and babies! These are the best baby and child carriers for maximum comfort, value, and safety.
The Best Kids’ Fitness Trackers of 2024
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!
All-in-One Hiking Daypack, Baby Carrier, Diaper Bag: Hatcher Pack Adventure Bag Review
The Hatcher Pack Adventure Diaper Bag is the diaper bag and baby carrier duo adventurous parents of small children have been looking for.
You Won’t Find a Warmer Kids’ Snowsuit: Reima Stavanger Snowsuit Review
The Reima Stavanger snowsuit is the one my 6-year-old daughter needs for rugged durability and insane warmth on wintry adventures.
Holiday
GearJunkie experts craft gift guides and gather holiday deals to help you shop for the special outdoorsperson in your life — or spoil yourself!
Cut the Garbage Gifts: Go Bespoke With Gerber Custom
To learn more about Gerber’s Custom offerings, we asked some of our staffers to make their own knives and tools.
Best Gifts for Cyclists: 16 Great Presents for Your Favorite Biker
Cycling is so #!@% gear-oriented. But don’t worry — we’ve curated the best gifts for cyclists from 4 decades of experience.
Give Memories, Not Things: These Gifts Are Experiences of a Lifetime
Experiences make great gifts for the adventurer who doesn’t need any more gear. And with the gift of experience, you can tag along!
How to Give a Wrist Watch (And a Few to Choose)
Watches make great gifts. Our experts break down the subtleties of giving a watch as a gift, and offer some advice on watches to choose, price range, watch style, and more.
Olympics
Archery Leader and Innovator Jim Easton Dies at 88
The son of archery innovator Doug Easton, Jim expanded the family legacy by diversifying aluminum sports equipment and leading the World Archery Federation.
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.
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.
‘We Need to Fight’: Union Organizing Booms in US Outdoor Industry
While the outdoor industry brings in over $1 trillion to the US economy, more workers are joining labor unions to boost their compensation and representation.
REI Announces Layoffs, Cuts 357 Workers
REI issued the layoffs just weeks after announcing 11 new co-ops opening across the country over the next 2
years.
Outdoor Retailer 2023 Winter Show: GearJunkie’s Top 10 Standout Products From the Floor
Outdoor Retailer’s 2023 winter show took place in Salt Lake City last week — many brands were absent, but those present brought their A-game. Here are our favorite products from the showroom floor.
REI SoHo Workers Claim ‘Retaliatory’ Pay Cuts, Walk Out in Protest
Unionized REI workers claim the company cut their pay in retaliation for unionizing. REI says this is exactly what the union agreed to a year ago.
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.
Camp for Cheap: Sales on Freeze-Dried Meals, Trekking Poles, and Hunting Apparel
Don’t wait until the day before your first spring camping trip to start preparing! Stock up on meals and gear while the prices are still low and the deals are strong.
Prep for Sunny Days With Discounts on Sporty Shades, Cycling Apparel, and Commuter E-Bikes
Happy Easter, cycling lovers! It’s a perfect weekend to take advantage of hefty deals on apparel, sunglasses, helmets, and even e-bikes.
Spring Sales Flourish With Saucony Shoes, Coleman Stoves, and Shooting Accessories
From deals on trail running shoes to steep discounts on high-priced items like Goal Zero power stations, we’ve got the deals you need.
Deals in Bloom: Canyon Bikes, Filter Bottles, and Turkey Hunting Gear on Sale
Save big this weekend with deals on Canyon Bicycles, LifeStraw water filtration bottles, and top-notch winter sports gear.
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.”
The Best Sun Hats of 2024
We tested the sun hats of 2024 with options for every activity and budget. Top picks include Patagonia, Tilley, Columbia, and more!
The Best Men’s Flannels of 2024
We tested and reviewed the best men’s flannel shirts of 2024. From wool to organic cotton, we found the perfect pick for any budget.
All-in-One Hiking Daypack, Baby Carrier, Diaper Bag: Hatcher Pack Adventure Bag Review
The Hatcher Pack Adventure Diaper Bag is the diaper bag and baby carrier duo adventurous parents of small children have been looking for.
Winter Base: Let Smartwool Performance Apparel Keep You Warm & Dry
Smartwool taps the power of wool for head-to-toe apparel that can keep you warm and dry through winter activities.