REI Co-op First Chair GTX Ski Bibs Review

Last Updated: October 7, 2024

REI Co-op’s in-house gear often strikes a nice balance between price and performance, and the First Chair GTX ski collection is no exception. I put the men’s bibs through their paces on several spring ski days in Washington state last winter and came...

Best Trekking Poles of 2024

Last Updated: October 7, 2024

Serious hikers have known the benefits of trekking poles for decades. Aside from providing stability while hauling a heavy load or moving over technical terrain, hiking poles have distinct advantages even on easy trails. They’re great for setting a...

Best All-Mountain Skis of 2024-2025

Last Updated: October 5, 2024

If you're searching for that elusive one-ski quiver, this is the category to find it. The definition of “all-mountain” varies by manufacturer and retailer but typically includes skis from 80 to 105 millimeters underfoot that can both carve on hardpack...

Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

Last Updated: October 3, 2024

Whether you’re traveling across the globe or headed out on a quick weekend getaway, a thoughtfully designed travel pack can help you stay comfortable and organized while on the move. Key considerations include carry-on compatibility for air travel...

Travel Gear Reviews

Last Updated: October 1, 2024

Having the right gear and accessories for travel can make a huge difference in the quality of your trip, from...

Best Down Jackets of 2024

Last Updated: September 27, 2024

It's tough to beat a great down jacket, whether it’s for casual use or tearing around the backcountry. This cozy insulation type offers the best warmth-to-weight ratio on the market and packs down smaller than synthetic options for easy storage. From...

REI Co-op First Chair GTX Ski Jacket Review

Last Updated: September 27, 2024

REI Co-op is a consistent leader when it comes to value, and their First Chair GTX Jacket is a case in point. Boasting proven 2-layer Gore-Tex protection and a full suite of resort-ready features, the First Chair proved to be a great match for downhill...

Best Winter Jackets of 2024

Last Updated: September 25, 2024

When the coldest winter months arrive, it’s time for a serious jacket. Our picks for the best winter jackets and parkas below are among the warmest on the market—they are packed with down fill (or synthetic on occasion) and built to stand up to...

Asolo Falcon Evo GV Hiking Boot Review

Last Updated: September 24, 2024

In many ways, the Asolo Falcon GV embodies one of the biggest trends in modern hiking footwear: a little less weight and support than a traditional heavyweight boot but with the technical chops to get the job done both on and off the trail. I recently...

Arc’teryx Norvan Shell Jacket Review

Last Updated: September 24, 2024

Arc’teryx’s Norvan collection is purpose-built for trail running, and the Norvan Shell Jacket stands out for its trustworthy protection in a truly ultralight package. Featuring Gore’s proven 3-layer waterproof membrane and a streamlined but practical...

Patagonia Granite Crest Rain Jacket Review

Last Updated: September 23, 2024

Patagonia’s rain jacket lineup covers the full gamut, from the budget-friendly Torrentshell to the running-focused Storm Racer. The mid-range Granite Crest strikes a nice middle ground for many hikers and other outdoor-goers, with quality 3-layer...

Ski Jacket Construction: 2L vs. 3L

Last Updated: September 23, 2024

If you’ve ever shopped around for a ski jacket (or pants), you’re bound to have seen the terms 2L and 3L (short for 2-layer and 3-layer) again and again. These refer to the style of construction used in a waterproof jacket’s shell, including the face...