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Field Notes: Boots, Jackets, Tents, And More

The latest word from our testers. This month, we test the Marmot Cauldro jacket, Gregory Z65 pack, Exped Andromeda, tents, Danner Formation boots, and more.

Ultimate Survival Kit

Want to make it out alive? Consider packing these 17 items carried by a veteran Yosemite search-and-rescue ranger.

3 Ways To Save: Adventure Racing

Adventure racing isn't for those without high pain thresholds, but here's three ways to cut down on the inevitable hurt.

Sleeping Bag Water Test Pt. I:
Simulated Rain Smackdown

In this gear test, Shannon Davis jumps in three sleeping bags and we hose them down to see how each one handles high-force rain.

Sleeping Bag Water Test Part II:
Full Submersion

Yeah, we know you probably won't ever get fully submerged in a raging river while in your sleeping bag, but that's not good enough for us.

Sleeping Bag Water Test Part III:
The Beer Fridge

Frigid temperatures are hard to find in the middle of the summer (when we shot this video) so after soaking three sleeping bags, we chilled out at a local liquor store.

What's in Your Pack?

How much gear I should pack? I don't want to bring too little, and I don't want to be overexerting myself with too much. What's in the ideal pack?

Gore-Tex Water-Proofing Tips

What are the best products for re-waterproofing Gore-Tex rain jackets?

Fabric Softener on Down?

Is it safe or advisable to use Febreeze or other "fabric refreshers" on my down sleeping bag?

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Gear Photos + Videos

Sleeping Bag Water Test Pt. I:
Simulated Rain Smackdown

In this gear test, Shannon Davis jumps in three sleeping bags and we hose them down to see how each one handles high-force rain.

Sleeping Bag Water Test Part II:
Full Submersion

Yeah, we know you probably won't ever get fully submerged in a raging river while in your sleeping bag, but that's not good enough for us.
View all videos

Ask the Expert

Ask Kristin
Kristin Hostetter
Q.} I'm an amateur hiker/backpacker and I'm wondering how much gear I should pack. I don't want to bring too little, and I don't want to be overexerting myself with too much. What's in the ideal pack?
Submitted by: Zack, Sacramento, CA
A.} The golden rule is this: Never carry more than 1/3 of your body weight...

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