Gear overviews
Researched product overviews built from manufacturer specifications and other cited sources. Hands-on reviews are labeled separately and name who tested the gear.
Mountain Hardwear Scrambler 35: specs, versions and alternatives
The Scrambler 35 is a light, weather-resistant top-loader for scrambling, climbing and fast hiking. Here is what retailers list for it, who it fits, and what to buy if you cannot find one.
Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60: specs, sizing and alternatives
The Mariposa 60 is Gossamer Gear's high-volume, roughly 2 lb thru-hiking pack. Here are its specs, load limits, sizing and the packs to compare it with.
inov-8 Race Elite vest: specs, status and current alternatives
The inov-8 Race Elite was a light, zip-free running vest with two 500 ml bottles. Here is what it offered, why it is hard to find now, and which current vests to look at instead.
Osprey Hikelite 32: specs, versions and alternatives
The Hikelite 32 is Osprey's ventilated, mid-size day hiking pack. Here is what the current version offers, how it differs from older stock, and what else to consider.
Primus OmniFuel II: specs, fuels and alternatives
The Primus OmniFuel II is a multi-fuel expedition stove that runs on gas canisters and liquid fuels. Here are its published specs, who needs one and what to compare it with.
Salewa Mountain Trainer Mid GTX: versions, specs and alternatives
The original Mountain Trainer Mid GTX has given way to the Mountain Trainer 2 Mid GTX. Here is what the boot is built for, its specs, and what else to compare.
Salomon Quest 4D GTX: specs, versions and the current Quest 5
The Quest 4D GTX line is now on its fifth edition. Here is how the versions compare, what the current Quest 5 GORE-TEX offers, and which boots to consider instead.
Therm-a-Rest ProLite: specs, sizes and alternatives
The ProLite is Therm-a-Rest's thin, light self-inflating pad for three-season backpacking. Here are its R-value, weights by size and the pads to compare it with.
Vasque Talus AT UltraDry: specs, status and alternatives
The Talus AT UltraDry was a leather-and-mesh waterproof hiker on a Vibram sole. It is no longer in Vasque's current range; here is what it offered and what to buy now.
Xero Shoes TerraFlex II: specs, who it suits and alternatives
The TerraFlex II is Xero Shoes' zero-drop, minimalist trail running and hiking shoe. Here are its published specs, who it fits best, and other options worth comparing.