gear

We tested men’s hiking pants for fit, quick-dry comfort, pocket security, and trail durability. Here are the pairs worth buying, from budget to convertible.

We tested seven pairs for steadier walking: which locks hold under a leaning hand, which grips stay put, and which pack small.

We tested women-friendly trekking poles and chose the lightest, most secure and packable pairs for day hikes, backpacking and travel.

We tested low-cut hiking shoes for fit, grip, and wet-weather comfort, and picked four worth buying, from a do-everything default to a budget trail shoe.

We tested eight low-cut hiking shoes for beginners and found the Merrell Moab 3 the best all-around, with budget and women’s picks for every trail.

We tested hiking shorts for dry time, stretch, pocket security and fit. Here are the pairs that handle sweat, scrambles and long days best.

We hiked in these shorts to find the pairs that stay put on thick thighs: roomy legs, forgiving waists, zip pockets, and quick-dry fabric.

We tested hitch racks for 2-inch and 1¼-inch receivers, fat tires and e-bikes. Here is what holds four bikes steady, or one heavy one.

We tested eight home exercise picks across strength, core, recovery, and floor work so you can build a compact gym that fits your space.

We tested hydration packs from 8.5-ounce running vests to insulated 18-liter daypacks, so you can match reservoir size and cargo to your hikes.