gear

We hiked with seven framed and shoulder child carriers. Here’s the one that keeps a sleeping toddler balanced, and the pack that folds flat for travel.

We tested approach shoes for grip, support, and fit on rocky ground. The La Sportiva TX4 EVO leads, with durable and budget alternatives.

We tested hatchets, chopping axes and splitting mauls to find the best axe for camp, kindling and firewood, plus the one worth the extra money.

We hiked with framed child carriers and picked the ones worth the money: the comfiest for long days, the best value, and the lightest for travel.

Find the best all mountain bike that balances trail performance and durability without breaking the bank.

We wore, washed and compared ankle socks to find the pairs that stay up and don’t rub, with picks for running, everyday wear and tight shoes.

We tested lace-up braces, wraps, and compression sleeves to find ankle support that stabilizes the joint without crowding a hiking boot.

Which adjustable ski poles hold up without bending, and which trade-offs are worth making for resort use.

Our camping air mattress picks, ranked on comfort, overnight air retention, and how you inflate them when there is no outlet at the site.

We tested alcohol stoves for backpacking, from a 145-gram all-in kit to a bare titanium burner, to find which boils fast, packs small and holds up.