Charlotte

We tested merino base layers for cold-weather hiking. Here are the seven that stay warm, layer cleanly and don’t itch, from budget sets to premium pieces.

We tested men’s hiking shoes for fit, grip, waterproofing and wear. The Merrell Moab 3 is our default pick; the KEEN Targhee 4 is best for wide feet.

We tested women’s running shoes from Brooks, ASICS, New Balance, Skechers and Under Armour to find the best daily trainer, stability pair and budget buy.

We tested beginner kayaks — inflatables, sit-on-tops and sit-ins — to find the stable, lightweight boats a novice can launch alone and keep using.

We tested insoles for work boots, running shoes, flat feet and high arches. PowerStep Pinnacle wins overall; Superfeet Green is best for high arches.

We tested eight men’s hiking shoes and boots. Here’s the comfortable all-rounder we recommend, plus the waterproof, wide-fit and budget picks worth buying.

Which phones actually work for off-grid GPS and emergency SOS without dying on a hike? We break down the trade-offs.

We tested trail pouches and emergency buckets to find the meals worth carrying and storing — and the serving counts that don’t add up.

We rehydrated and ate our way through the freeze-dried meals, breakfasts and desserts worth packing, and picked the ones that earn their weight.

We rehydrated and ate the freeze-dried meals worth carrying: the best trail dinner, a hot breakfast, a budget pouch, and a vegan option.