Gear

Announcing the 2024 Badger Sponsorship

Announcing the 2024 Badger Sponsorship

We are excited to announce that The Trek's 2024 Badger Sponsorship is now live! We've got tents, packs, quilts, apparel, food, and accessories from the biggest and best names in...

Feb 12, 2024 : Kendra Slagter
Best Synthetic Jackets for Backpacking of 2024

Best Synthetic Jackets for Backpacking of 2024

While down insulation still owns the field for thru-hiking jackets, synthetic-filled layers are making a dent in the category. As synthetic technologies become more eco-friendly and improve their

Feb 8, 2024 : The Editors
Top Backpacks on the Appalachian Trail: 2023 Thru-Hiker Survey

Top Backpacks on the Appalachian Trail: 2023 Thru-Hiker Survey

Each year here at The Trek, we ask long-distance hikers on the Appalachian Trail (AT) about the backpack they used during their thru-hikes. In this post, we’ll dive into everything...

Feb 6, 2024 : Kate Richard
Best Down Jackets for Backpacking of 2024

Best Down Jackets for Backpacking of 2024

Your insulating midlayer is a key component of your backpacking setup, and rarely is there a time when you should hit the trail without an insulation layer wedged in your...

Feb 1, 2024 : The Editors
The Best Backpacking Rain Jackets for Thru-Hiking in 2024

The Best Backpacking Rain Jackets for Thru-Hiking in 2024

Your rain jacket may not be the most thrilling piece of your backpacking kit, but it's pretty darn important. Sure, it might stay stuffed in your pack during the dry...

Jan 31, 2024 : The Editors
The Top Sleeping Bags, Quilts, and Pads on the Appalachian Trail: 2023 Thru-Hiker Survey

The Top Sleeping Bags, Quilts, and Pads on the Appalachian Trail: 2023 Thru-Hiker Survey

Each year here at the Trek, we ask hikers on the Appalachian Trail all about what sleeping systems they used on their hike. In this installment, we'll cover the type...

Jan 25, 2024 : Kate Richard
The Ultimate Guide to Thru-Hiking Electronics

The Ultimate Guide to Thru-Hiking Electronics

We all dream of unplugging on trail, spending time in the trees and away from technology. That is, until we want to take a picture, figure out where our next...

Jan 24, 2024 : Alex "GPS" Brown
The Best Backpacking Quilts of 2024

The Best Backpacking Quilts of 2024

Quilts are all the rage these days, and it's easy to see why. They're more streamlined than sleeping bags, and when used correctly, they can still be incredibly warm and...

Jan 23, 2024 : The Editors
The Best Backpacking Gear Deals from Around the Web

The Best Backpacking Gear Deals from Around the Web

If you're looking for some gear for your upcoming adventures, check out these great deals on backpacking gear from around the web. Most of these are clearance items, i.e. supply...

Jan 19, 2024 : Diane Duffard
Essential Gear for a 4,400-Mile Thru-Hike

Essential Gear for a 4,400-Mile Thru-Hike

Embarking on a thru-hike is no small feat. While the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail have secured their place as two of the most popular long-distance trails in the...

Jan 19, 2024 : Kendra Slagter