Best Hiking Boots of 2024

Last Updated: October 23, 2024

Hiking boots are critical to your comfort and performance on the trail, but this no longer means a stiff and burly model that will weigh you down. The trend is toward lighter materials that still offer decent support, and waterproof boots...

Best Daypacks for Hiking of 2024

Last Updated: October 23, 2024

From short day hikes and summit scrambles to all-day adventures into the backcountry, you’ll want the right pack for the job. Most people carry water and food, a layering piece and rain shell, and a few other accessories like a first-aid kit or...

Best Rain Jackets of 2024

Last Updated: October 23, 2024

With a long history in the Pacific Northwest, the Switchback team knows a thing or two about rain. From months of daily drizzle to heavy downpours in the mountains, we're acutely aware of the benefits of a quality waterproof and breathable shell—not...

Best Winter Boots 2024-2025

Last Updated: October 23, 2024

Winter boots are a timeless and charming piece of gear. From classic Sorels to light and modern designs, they aim to keep your feet protected and warm from wet snow and frigid temperatures. Whether you live in a cold and snowy climate...

Best Powder Skis of 2024-2025

Last Updated: October 22, 2024

Whether you’re an intermediate skier making the transition from resort to backcountry or a seasoned rider who lives for secret stashes and untracked terrain, a dedicated powder ski can make a world of difference in deep snow. Compared to traditional...

Best Ski Boots for Beginners of 2024-2025

Last Updated: October 21, 2024

If there's one piece of gear that will keep first-timers from sticking with the sport, it’s an uncomfortable ski boot. An ill-fitting, cheap boot can pinch and freeze toes, turning potential fun into complete misery. Thankfully, there are quality...

Best Snowboard Jackets of 2024-2025

Last Updated: October 21, 2024

As your main line of defense against snow and wind, a quality snowboard jacket is a key piece of your kit. Designs fall into three basic categories: versatile and light shells, insulated models for a boost in...

Ski Jackets: Shell vs. Insulated vs. 3-in-1

Last Updated: October 21, 2024

Today’s ski jackets are well made and built to handle many seasons of use in foul weather. They can also be big investments, with even entry-level jackets often setting you back a couple hundred dollars or more. With so many styles to choose from, it...

REI Co-op Stormhenge 850 Down Hybrid Jacket Review

Last Updated: October 18, 2024

REI Co-op continues to impress us with their in-house line of products, and the Stormhenge 850 Down Hybrid Jacket is one of their best. Highlights include a combination of premium goose down and synthetic insulation, a 2-layer waterproof shell with...

Best Ski Helmets of 2024-2025

Last Updated: October 18, 2024

No matter your ability level, picking up a helmet for skiing is a no-brainer. If you’ve been putting off replacing a helmet that’s years old or are new to the sport, recent advancements have made them lighter and even safer, so now is a great time to...

Best Downhill Ski Boots of 2024-2025

Last Updated: October 17, 2024

No matter your ability level, a comfortable boot is an absolute necessity. Nothing ruins a good groomer or powder day faster than cold or painful feet, and poor-fitting boots also run the risk of not properly transferring energy to your skis and...

Patagonia Triolet Jacket Review

Last Updated: October 17, 2024

Patagonia is a consistent leader in the alpine apparel market, and their Triolet shell slots in as a burly and highly protective option at a reasonable price. The thick, 75-denier face fabric is excellent for use around sharp equipment, the 3-layer...