Category Archives: Gear Reviews

Welcome to the review archive! Here you will find reviews for literally every item we own as well as those that are provided by manufacturers specifically for smackpacker review. We use a 1-10 ratings scale to detail the usefulness, quality, weight, and cost/value of the gear reviewed:

1-3: Not worth your time or money in any way
4-6: Flawed, adequate or average gear that may fit your particular needs
7-8: Good stuff we can recommend, with a nitpick or two
9-10: Truly excellent equipment. Don’t leave the trailhead without it

Quilt Trip: An Examination of UL Backpacking Quilts

Posted on April 12, 2010 by

A close look at a few of the lightest backpacking quilts available on the market today. Continue reading →

Posted in Gear Reviews | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

MLD eVent Rain Mitts Quick Review

Posted on April 11, 2010 by

After a bone-chilling hike in a downpour @ 38 degrees a week and a few days ago, forcing me to throw my poles into my pack and bury my hands in my pockets, I immediately decided that I needed some lightweight shells … Continue reading →

Posted in Gear Reviews | 1 Comment

MLD Cuben Solo Pro Tarp Quick Review

Posted on April 11, 2010 by

One of the cuben items purchased for this season is a Mountain Laurel Designs (MLD) Solo Pro Tarp. This, although I didn’t necessarily “need” a new tarp, was intended to be used in conjunction with my Super Mica jacket to … Continue reading →

Posted in Gear Reviews | 4 Comments

Marmot Super Mica Review

Posted on April 9, 2010 by

I’ve made MANY purchases for the 2010 backpacking season, including significant purchases of gear constructed of cuben fiber. I’ve not yet chronicled a single item thus far, due to the simple reason of not wanting to review anything I haven’t adequately tested . . … Continue reading →

Posted in Gear Reviews | 8 Comments