Outdoor Reviews

When it comes to adding that extra layer of warmth to your bedding during chilly nights, the Cloud 9 Comforter from Western Mountaineering has recently caught our attention. The comfort and quality are noticeable from the first touch—this comforter lives up to its name, giving you the sensation of sleeping under a cloud. Made with a luxurious 800 fill power Eastern European goose down, it's incredibly soft and lightweight. During our time with the Cloud 9 Comforter, we experienced how it beautifully marries warmth with breathability, making [...]

In our search for robust hiking footwear, we came across the Dolomite Men's Crodarossa Hi GTX Boots. After putting them to the test on varied terrains, we can say they’re a strong contender in the outdoor boots market. These boots offer a respectable blend of durability and comfort, thanks in part to the high-quality rubber soles that provide solid grip on rocky paths. We've noticed that they effectively balance support around the ankle without restricting movement, which is crucial for those unpredictable outdoor excursions. A significant highlight [...]

When you're up against the elements, a reliable windshell can be your best ally. That's what we discovered with the Arc'teryx Squamish Hoody. It's light and compressible enough to be a constant companion on our climbs and trail runs. The Tyono 30 denier shell with its DWR treatment does a sterling job at fending off wind and light rain, making it a practical layer for unpredictable weather. We appreciated the thoughtful design details like gusseted underarms and the articulated fit, enhancing our range of motion. Plus, the [...]

Staying hydrated throughout the day is crucial for health and well-being, and we've recently tried the THERMOS Intak 24 Ounce Hydration Bottle to see how it stands up to daily use. It’s crafted from BPA-free and dishwasher-safe Eastman Tritan copolyester, which feels sturdy and durable in hand. We found the easy-to-use push button sipper lid with locking ring particularly convenient for quick sips without the worry of spills, especially on the move. It’s the rotating meter that steals the show, however; tracking our water intake was a [...]

When it comes to physical and mental health benefits, few outdoor activities are as helpful and accessible as hiking. However, you need to be prepared before hitting the trail. Staying properly hydrated during a hike is important, especially when facing challenging terrain and varying weather conditions. This is where a reliable water bottle becomes essential. The right water bottle is crucial for hikers as it offers a convenient way to stay hydrated on the go without having to carry heavy or bulky containers. Whether it's a [...]

As someone who thrives in the great outdoors, we understand the importance of reliable gear. Recently, we got our hands on the Dakine Baron Gore-TEX Index Mitt, and we must say it's a game-changer for those chilly mountain expeditions. These mitts are designed for warmth and performance, combining high-quality materials with practical design elements. The moment we slipped our hands into these mitts, we were impressed with the build quality. Combining goat leather and polyester ensures durability and comfort while offering considerable dexterity for a winter glove. [...]

Have you ever noticed how there are so many different types of clothing to choose from when it comes to getting ready for outdoor activities? We've got jackets, ski and snowboard jackets, rain jackets, coats, sweaters, and so much more. But sometimes, there's a piece of clothing that gets overlooked—the trusty vest!Vests (or sleeveless jackets) are versatile, functional, and can be a great addition to anyone's outdoor wardrobe. They're insulated jackets without the sleeves, so they're perfect for those in-between days when the weather isn't too hot [...]

If you're hitting the slopes this winter, you know that having the right gear is essential. And when it comes to snowboarding, one of the most important pieces of equipment to invest in is a good pair of the warmest gloves. A warm glove on each hand not only keeps your hands warm but also provides protection and comfort as you ride down the mountain. Looking for the best women’s snowboarding jackets? We can help you there, too. Anyway, back to gloves. When choosing a pair [...]

When considering a new addition to our hiking gear, we often prioritize convenience and durability. That's why the Cnoc Outdoors Vecto Water Container caught our attention. Its dual-opening design isn't just a neat feature; it practically solves the issue of messy refills and troublesome cleaning that plagues lots of outdoor equipment. We particularly appreciated how the container attaches effortlessly to filters with a 42 mm thread—though it won't fit a Sawyer filter, it's perfect for the Katadyn BeFree. If you're looking into other options for hiking water [...]

When the weather is fickle and a hike is calling your name, you won't regret having the Ortovox Windbreaker Jacket as a companion. Our trial with this jacket revealed it as a practical choice for adventurers who won't let a bit of wind or rain hamper their plans. Crafted from TEC-Stretch fabric with a merino wool blend, the jacket offers formidable protection against the elements without compromising breathability—a factor often overlooked in windbreakers. If you're looking for other windbreaker options, check out our best windbreaker jackets article. [...]

Are you gearing up for your next outdoor adventure and looking for a reliable shelter? We recently had the chance to set up the Tungsten 2-Person Tent by Marmot and were quite taken with its quality and features. It's a spacious and sturdy option that swiftly becomes a cozy haven, whether nestled in a forest clearing or perched on a mountain bluff. This competes with other mountaineering tents at the top of the list. Color-coding on the clips and poles is a real time-saver, ensuring that the [...]

When tackling the slopes, the right gear can make all the difference. That's why we took a closer look at the DESCENTE Stock Insulated Ski Pants for men. After taking them for a spin on a cold mountain day, we can report that these pants stand up to the elements effectively. To view other ski pants check out our other article. Crafted from a blend of 90% polyester and 10% synthetic materials, these ski pants offer a good balance of insulation and flexibility. They are imported and [...]

When looking for a trusty companion to keep you hydrated, we recently turned to the Hydro Flask 24 Oz. The Pacific blue hue is as calming as the ocean, which perfectly matches its ability to keep drinks icy cold for a full day or your coffee hot for those long morning commutes. After taking this bottle out on a few adventures, we have some thoughts on its performance. If you're looking for other hiking water bottle options, check out our best water bottles for hiking article! Its [...]

Exploring the snowy terrain just got better with the Flylow Men's Baker Insulated Bib. After spending a week on the slopes, we can attest to the comfort and durability of these snowboard pants. Designed to stand up to the rigors of mountain life, Flylow has prioritized both warmth and breathability in this gear, meeting the needs of serious skiers and snowboarders. What strikes us most about the Bib is its 100% polyester construction, which offers a reliable barrier against the cold and wet without sacrificing mobility. The [...]

As winter sweeps in, we've discovered the Columbia Peak Pursuit Glove to be the go-to accessory for those bracing the cold. Our hands stayed warm even on the chilliest days, thanks to the glove's heat-reflective lining and ample insulation. While tackling the snowy slopes, the OutDry membrane proved its worth by keeping moisture out, ensuring our digits remained comfortably dry throughout. Check out our list of the other best snowboard gloves here. Despite the gloves' considerable warmth, we were impressed by their flexibility and the dexterity they [...]

As the seasons change and we gear up for all sorts of outdoor adventures, it's important to have the right gear for each activity. One must-have item for any outdoor enthusiast is a good windbreaker jacket. So, we’re here to give you the lowdown on the best windbreaker jackets of 2024 – perfect for keeping you comfortable and stylish on all your outdoor excursions. Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is a windbreaker jacket, and how is it different from other outdoor gear like a [...]

If you've ever found yourself shivering at a campsite or dampening the mood of a picnic with soggy seating, you're not alone. We've recently tried the YETI Lowlands Blanket in Fireside Red, and we must admit, this multi-use blanket with its travel bag is set to become a go-to for our outdoor adventures. One of the first things we noticed is the dual-character of the blanket – tough and waterproof on the outside, cushioned and insulated on the inside. Whether we were on dewy grass or rocky [...]

Embarking on an adventure often means stepping into the unknown, and the quality of your gear can make all the difference. Recently, we took the LifeStraw Go insulated stainless steel water filter bottle on a camping trip, and it's hard not to appreciate the peace of mind it brings. As frequent travelers, we value the ability to refill our bottle from various water sources without the worry of contaminants. The LifeStraw Go's advanced 2-stage filter tackles bacteria, parasites, chlorine, and even microplastics, making each sip as refreshing [...]

As the chill of winter sets in, we couldn't help but put the Hot Fingers Rip-N-Go II gloves to the test. These gloves are a standout option for those braving the cold, and we've got some insights to share. The gloves are constructed with a blend of nylon and spandex, which not only contributes to their durability but also offers a comfortable stretch. Throughout our use, they've proven to be warm and, importantly, they've kept our hands dry due to the quality of the materials used. The [...]

Who doesn't like a cold beverage when they're on the go? The problem is, keeping soda or beer cans, wine bottles, water bottles, or spoilable food cool when they're not in a refrigerator is challenging.When it comes to outdoor activities like picnics, camping, beach day trips, and tailgating, transporting food and beverages can be a challenge. Traditional hard coolers are bulky and heavy, making them inconvenient to carry over long distances. However, soft coolers offer a practical and efficient solution to this problem.Soft coolers are a type [...]

When the weather throws its fickleness your way, it pays to be prepared. That's why we turned to the Rab Men's Vital Jacket for our latest outdoor excursions. It's an ultralight windshell designed for hiking, trail running, and climbing, and let me tell you, it never feels like a burden to bring along. The firecracker color is vibrant, and the jacket's ability to pack down into its own pocket means it's effortlessly transportable. What stands out is the nylon material that blocks the wind effectively. We felt [...]

We recently had the opportunity to take the 3F UL GEAR lanshan 2 Tent out for a spin, and it's quite the contender for a spot in any outdoor enthusiast's gear collection. The tent is touted for being ultralight and easy to carry, which is a huge plus for backpackers like us looking to save on pack weight. Its 15D silicon-coated flysheet offers a level of water resistance that had us resting easy, even as we listened to the rain patter against the fabric overnight. Check out [...]