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!

New Gear: GoLite Virga Jacket

Added to my gear list: the 8.5 oz. waterproof/breathable GoLite Virga jacket. Continue reading

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REI Arete ASL 2 Tent Review

Review of the REI Arete ASL 2 “all season” 2-person tent + footprint. Continue reading

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BPL STIX Mod: Aftermarket Tips

Modification of BPL STIX carbon fiber poles with aftermarket tips to increase durability. Continue reading

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April 20th

“Review” of the 2009 GoLite Jam2 pack, Simblissity Unslack Pack, and 420 other things Continue reading

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New Gear: Silnylon Buttless Chaps & Ultralight Poo Shovel

Review of Mountain Laurel Designs Silnylon Rain Chaps & a multiuse titanium stake/potty trowel. Continue reading

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2009 Schleeping Pad Smack-Off

Early impressions of the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir sleeping pad Continue reading

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