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 the following ratings scale to detail the usefulness, quality, weight, and cost/value of the gear reviewed:

Don’t Bother: Not worth your time or money.
Not Bad: Flawed, adequate or average gear that may fit your particular needs.
Recommended: Good stuff we like, with a nitpick or two.
Highly Recommended: Truly excellent equipment. Don’t leave the trailhead without it!

Monkey Pillow Handcrafted Backpacking Pillow Case Review

Let’s face it: it can be tough getting a good night’s sleep in the backcountry. Despite the fact that I generally hike long days, averaging upwards of 20 miles with several thousand feet of vertical climb and descent, even the … Continue reading

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LoopAlien Rapid Cord Attachment Kickstarter Project

Having recently helped back BackpackingLight’s Kickstarter Packrafting video series project (more to generally support BPL than from any personal experience or serious interest in packrafting) I’ve found myself perusing Kickstarter for other things of interest. The Bosavi headlamp that Ploss reviewed … Continue reading

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Rab Summit Superlite Bivi Review

This gallery contains 9 photos.

The previous iteration of the Rab Latok Ultra bivi, this eVENT mountaineering shelter purports 4 season comfort as a single wall, ~3 lb. “two person” tent. Er bivi. Bivvy. Bivy? Before UK mountaineering manufacturer Rab introduced the Latok Ultra bivi … Continue reading

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Indoor Plumbing™

How a simple pee bottle eliminated my most bitter winter elimination complaint The following is a simply a Public Service Announcement from me to you, as the lone author of this blog who consistently and happily relieves his bladder in … Continue reading

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Vasque Snow Junkie UltraDry™ Winter Boot Review

Will these lightweight, insulated waterproof snow boots live up to the hype? Disclaimer #1: I am an unapologetic, absurdly dedicated Vasque Fanboy. With high arches and narrow feet, as an ultralight backpacker I hike almost exclusively in trail runners, year-round. … Continue reading

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Bosavi Headlamp Review

I am NOT a patient internet customer. I enjoy quickly receiving things that I order and have even signed up for the free trial of Amazon Prime to sate my desire for internet goods and services! My patience was tried … Continue reading

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