Best Synthetic Insulated Jackets of 2024

Last Updated: June 7, 2024

Synthetic insulation might not offer quite the warmth-to-weight ratio of down, but it resists moisture, breathes better, and is more cost-efficient. With the choice of both types of jackets in our gear closet, we find ourselves consistently reaching...

Best Sun Protection Shirts of 2024

Last Updated: June 6, 2024

Move over sunburns, heat exhaustion, and sunscreen sweat—sun shirts are the newest solar antidote. With full upper-body coverage (our picks are all hooded), UPF ratings that ensure protection against both UVA and UVB rays, and breathable fabrics, sun...

Best Mountain Bike Brands of 2024

Last Updated: June 6, 2024

For many mountain bikers, understanding the background, history, and ethos of a company has a major impact on the purchase of a new rig. However, with so many brands to choose from, it can be difficult to navigate the landscape and find a good match...

Sleeping Bags vs. Quilts

Last Updated: June 4, 2024

For thru-hikers, bikepackers, or anyone looking to travel light and fast, an ultralight sleeping bag or quilt is a no-brainer purchase that can shave noticeable weight and bulk from an overnight kit. But the choice between the two styles can be tricky...

Best Camping Gear of 2024

Last Updated: June 3, 2024

Shopping for camping gear is no small feat, whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned veteran. But once you set up your tent, lay out your sleeping bag, and settle in by the campfire, the effort is well worth it. After researching and testing...

Sleeping Pad R-Value Explained

Last Updated: June 3, 2024

The sleeping pad you bring on an expedition can be the difference between a comfortable outing in nature and a sleepless night spent tossing and turning. But how do you decide which pad to buy and how much warmth you’ll need? Looking at R-value is a...

Best Windbreaker Jackets of 2024

Last Updated: June 3, 2024

Let’s get right to the point: We love windbreaker jackets. In our opinion, a good windbreaker is the most versatile outdoor jacket money can buy. These small but mighty outer layers pack a punch, offering serious protection from the elements for hikers...

Best Vests of 2024

Last Updated: May 31, 2024

For getting outdoors on cool fall and spring days, it’s hard to beat a vest. This simple layering piece adds warmth to your core and is cozy, compact, and cheaper than a full jacket. But, like all sectors of the clothing industry, vests are varied...

Best Mountain Bike Helmets of 2024

Last Updated: May 29, 2024

If your mountain biking gear budget has been stretched thin and you’re tempted to skimp on the helmet, don’t. Skip that extra bit of carbon instead. It’s true, mountain bike helmet prices are creeping up, but we find little reason to complain. For...

Best Hydration Bladders of 2024

Last Updated: May 29, 2024

Whether we’re hiking, biking, running, or climbing, on-the-go hydration is an essential part of our kit. There’s simply no better way to encourage drinking consistently during activity, which is vital to performance and enjoyment (after bonking one too...

About Switchback Travel

Last Updated: May 28, 2024

Switchback Travel is the premier online resource for those who love the outdoors. On the site, we cover two main content areas: outdoor gear (round-ups covering product categories and in-depth reviews) and adventure travel...

REI Co-op Base Camp 6 Tent Review

Last Updated: May 24, 2024

Featuring high-quality materials and a traditional dome shape, REI Co-op’s Base Camp has been a long-time staple in their tent lineup. Offered in four- and six-person capacities, the car camping-focused model is a top choice among those looking to...