Gear

Got a big road trip planned that you need to gear up for? Or are you looking for advice on how to stay comfortable on the trail? The Bearfoot Theory team has been lucky to test out a ton of gear over the years, and we share the best outdoor gear we’ve discovered for hiking, backpacking, paddling, car camping, skiing, and other activities in these blog posts.

6 Best Women’s Sleeping Bags for Backpacking in 2024

Looking for a warm and lightweight sleeping bag? Here are my favorites that have been tested by myself and the BFT Team.

REI Magma 15-Degree Unisex Sleeping Bag Review

I tested the new unisex REI Magma Sleeping Bag on a 3-night backpacking trip and loved how warm and comfortable it was. Get the full details on this awesome sleeping bag in this review.

7 Best Camp Tables for Every Outdoor Adventure

Looking for the best camp tables? We’ve rounded up our top picks that will serve all your camp cooking, eating, and game playing needs.

Oboz Cottonwood Hiking Shoe Review

Discover what makes the Oboz Cottonwood my new favorite hiking boot in this gear review that outlines the comfort, fit, performance, sustainability & more.

12 Reasons to Become an REI Member

Being an REI Member comes with a ton of perks like member-only coupons and used gear trade-in. Learn why I became an REI Member and about all the benefits you get when you join!

6 Best Women’s Desert Hiking Boots and Shoes

Heading out for a desert hike? Check out our top picks for the best women’s desert hiking shoes perfect for any desert trail.

Women’s Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Hoodie Review

Is Patagonia’s Nano Puff Insulated Hoodie Jacket worth the investment? Here are my honest thoughts after using this jacket for 4 years.

Best Women’s Winter Hiking Pants for Cold, Snowy Weather

Explore the best winter hiking pants for women while considering these warm, comfortable, and durable options for cold temperatures.

25 Coziest Winter Deals During REI’s Holiday Warm Up Sale

Check out the best deals on cozy clothing, outdoor gear, and more during REI’s Holiday Warm Up Sale this winter with discounts up to 50% off!

50 Best Gifts for National Park Lovers

Find the perfect National Park gifts for any occasion from calendars and apparel to unique gifts for the home – there’s something for everyone!

40 Best Outdoor Gear Deals During REI’s Gear Up Get Out Sale

I rounded up the best deals on my favorite outdoor gear and apparel during REI’s Get Up Get Out Sale that runs from November 10-20, 2023.

31 Eco-Friendly Gifts That Give Back (2024)

Find the perfect eco friendly gifts with this list of sustainable gift ideas that reduce waste and give back to the environment.

41 Best Gifts for Outdoorsmen (2024)

Find the perfect gifts for the outdoorsmen in your life from practical yet stylish apparel to rugged hiking, camping, and outdoor gear.

Winter Hiking Clothes & Cold Weather Layering Basics

Learn the essentials of winter hiking clothes and how to layer for outdoor adventures in cold, snowy weather.

50 Best Gifts for Outdoorsy Women (2024)

Find the perfect gift for the outdoorsy women in your life including apparel, camping & outdoor gear, & more – tailored for women, by women.

65 Best Van Life Gifts (2024)

Browse our list of the best van life gifts to find the perfect gift for the van lifers you know and make your holiday shopping easy.

85 Best Gifts for Outdoor Lovers: Ideas for Hikers, Campers, Travelers & More

Find the perfect gift for the outdoor lover in your life with our ultimate gift guide featuring gifts for hikers, van lifers, camp chefs, pets, and more

Best Women’s Synthetic Down Jackets in 2024

Find the best women’s synthetic down jackets including lightweight, packable, vegan-friendly down alternatives for cold temperatures.

35 Best Outdoor Gear Deals During REI’s Labor Day Sale

Save up to 40% on the best outdoor gear and apparel for camping, hiking, backpacking, van life, and more during the REI Labor Day Sale!

How to Pack a Backpacking Pack for a Multi-Day Hiking Trip

Learn how to pack a backpacking pack for maximum comfort and organization with these tips for fitting your gear and balancing the load.

Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Women in 2024

Here are the best carry-on travel backpacks for women so you can travel light, stay organized, and be ready for anything on your adventures.

65 Must-Have Road Trip Essentials: Your Complete Packing Checklist

Get organized with our road trip essentials checklist including gear recommendations and a printable packing list to ensure a smooth journey.

Best Sun Protection Shirts for Women in 2024

Stay sun-safe with the best sun protection shirts for women. From hiking trails to the beach, we’ve got you covered with maximum protection.

7 Best Hiking Shorts for Women of 2024

Discover the best hiking shorts for women and features to consider such as material, breathability, and fit.

Zpacks Duplex Ultralight Tent Review

Read our full review of the Zpacks Duplex, an ultralight backpacking tent that offers comfort, durability, and remarkable space for its weight.

Oboz Katabatic Hiking Shoe Review: Light and Versatile for the Trail

See why the Oboz Katabatic is our new favorite hiking shoe in this in-depth review covering fit, feel, style, traction, versatility, & more.

Teva Universal Trail Sandals Review

Functional. Stylish. Sustainable. The Teva Universal Trail Sandals check all the boxes – read our full review here.

Best Backpacking Stoves of 2024

Check out the best lightweight backpacking stoves and learn the pros and cons of canister, liquid fuel, and alternative fuel options.

11 Best Camping Chairs of 2024

Here are the best camping chairs including the top lightweight, comfortable options for camping & backpacking to keep your back and tush happy.

2023 REI Anniversary Sale: 35 Amazing Outdoor Gear Deals

Explore the best deals during REI’s Anniversary Sale including our favorite hiking, camping, backpacking and van life gear and apparel.

Backpacking on a Budget: Best Cheap Backpacking Gear of 2024

Looking for budget outdoor gear that won’t break the bank? Here is the best cheap backpacking gear plus top tips for buying quality, inexpensive gear.

8 Best Backpacking Tents in 2024

Get recommendations for some of the best tents for backpacking and learn the most important factors to consider when shopping for a new tent.

3-Day Backpacking Checklist (with Printable Packing List)

This complete backpacking checklist includes all the lightweight gear you’ll need when packing for an overnight trip in the backcountry.

9 Best Sleeping Pads for Backpacking in 2024

Check out the best lightweight sleeping pads for backpacking that are warm, comfortable, and durable enough for a multi-day trek.

Best Headlamps for Hiking & Camping in 2024

Find the best headlamp for your next camping and hiking adventure, including key factors to consider when choosing a headlamp.

8 Best Fanny Packs for Hiking, Travel, & Everyday Wear

Check out our list of the best fanny packs for hiking, traveling, road trips, and everyday wear that are stylish and functional.

Day Hiking Essentials: What to Bring on a Hike

Whether you are an experienced hiker or are just starting out, here are the ten day hiking essentials you should bring with you on every hike.

7 Best Trekking Poles for Hiking & Backpacking in 2024

Adjustability, grip type & pole material. Learn the benefits of hiking with trekking poles & how to choose the best trekking poles for your next adventure.