gear

We tested women’s ski mittens for warmth, dry hands and real fit — from budget Thinsulate pairs to a Gore-Tex favorite and a leather investment.

We compared the lanterns worth stocking for an outage: a battery-loaded four-pack, a rechargeable with AA backup, and a bright room-filler.

We tested seven knee braces on climbs and descents to find the ones that stay put, support a sore knee, and stay comfortable for hours on the trail.

Find the best knee pads for mountain biking that actually stay put, fit your legs, and match your riding style – trail, enduro, or downhill.

We compared wide, padded and noseless saddles for women riders, on pressure relief, platform width, mount fit and value.

We tested kids hiking boots on rocky, muddy trails to find real grip, ankle support, and a fit that survives a growth spurt.

We tested seven kids’ hiking shoes and boots on wet rock, mud and root-covered trails. Here’s what grips, what keeps feet dry and what lasts.

We tested kids sleeping bags for campouts and sleepovers, weighing warmth, fit, packed size, zipper reliability, and ease of care.

Pop-up tent, campfire, play food: we compare kids camping sets on sturdiness, storage and value, and name the one most families should start with.

We tested kids hiking backpacks and hydration packs to find the ones that fit small frames, carry water without leaking, and hold up to real trails.