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The best gaiters are lightweight, waterproof, and durable to protect your legs and footwear.

The best leg gaiters for exploring the snowy outdoors this winter

The best leg gaiters for exploring the snowy outdoors this winter

The best gaiters keep your legs, feet, and footwear dry and protected while bushwhacking, post-holing, and extreme off-trail exploring.
Hiker in the snow.

Don’t let the season stop you: Our top picks for the best winter hiking gear

Don’t let the season stop you: Our top picks for the best winter hiking gear

Winter hiking provides some of the best views and quietest trails of the year, but along with this comes the need for a whole different set of gear.
Woman jogging in winter holding a chemical hand warmer.

Keep your fingers toasty warm this winter with the 7 best hand warmers

Keep your fingers toasty warm this winter with the 7 best hand warmers

Serious cold demands serious heat. These battery- and chemical-powered hand warmers are the best way to keep your hands warm this winter.
The best heated clothing delivers portable all-day warmth.

The best heated clothing for your cold-weather adventures in 2023

The best heated clothing for your cold-weather adventures in 2023

Today's best heated clothing provides reliable, ultra-portable heating — usually battery-powered — for constant, all-day warmth in the winter.

Take a break at one of these U.S. National Parks this winter

Take a break at one of these U.S. National Parks this winter

Winter provides the most beautiful, peaceful, and picturesque landscapes at some of the most popular U.S. National Parks.
lesser known us national parks humpback whale breaches the water  park of american samoa 2015 gallery

5 Little-Known National Parks That Are Cooler Than Their Overcrowded Brethren

5 Little-Known National Parks That Are Cooler Than Their Overcrowded Brethren

More obscure national parks are just as majestic, but receive a fraction of the crowds. Try these little-known U.S. national parks in the Great Outdoors.
A close-up shot of a man running away from the camera. He is wearing blue jacket and carrying a blue backpack

In Review: Why My Go-To Ultralight Pack is the Montane Trailblazer LT

In Review: Why My Go-To Ultralight Pack is the Montane Trailblazer LT

The Montane Trailblazer LT is an ultralight pack for runners and hikers who want minimal fuss and maximum load bearing.
A person standing on a hill alone at sunset

Embrace the Summer With These 10 Microadventures

Embrace the Summer With These 10 Microadventures

Microadventures take place close to home and fit in the 5-9. Here are 10 ideas to help you make the most of summer.
Person in hiking boots crossing stream in the woods

Here Are the Best U.S. Hikes Accessible in the Summertime

Here Are the Best U.S. Hikes Accessible in the Summertime

Summertime is here and it's time to hit the trail for a hike. Travel along with The Manual to find the best places to chew dirt during the sunny season.
Person with a trekking pole and backpack standing atop of a mountain, looking at a view of the forest

The Ultimate Guide for Fastpacking Success

The Ultimate Guide for Fastpacking Success

Here's our guide on how to fastpack. Learn what you need to consider before heading out on the trail.
Keen Men's Uneek leather sandals

Here Are the Best Shoes for Leaping Into Summer

Here Are the Best Shoes for Leaping Into Summer

The sun is out and warmth is in the air. Time to get outside with the best new men’s shoe releases to lace up and get going on the season’s best activities.
Two pairs of trekking poles resting on a large pile of rocks; there is a landscape of hills and mountains in the background.

Are Trekking Poles Worth It and Do You Need Them?

Are Trekking Poles Worth It and Do You Need Them?

Do trekking poles really help you while out on the trail? Here is our take on whether they're really worth the hype.
Columbia Fairbanks snow boots on a white background.

REI Is Having a SURPRISE SALE on Hiking Boots Today

REI Is Having a SURPRISE SALE on Hiking Boots Today

Today REI is hosting a surprise sale on some of the best brand names in men's hiking boots.
Best National Parks Header Image - Hidden Lake, Glacier National Park

The 20 Best U.S. National Parks to Explore Now

The 20 Best U.S. National Parks to Explore Now

Soaring mountains, dune-covered deserts, glacial lakes, primeval forests, and red-rock canyons set the stage for special adventures in splendid national parks.
hiking poles backpack mountain

Hiking the Trail? Here’s 9 Tips for Safe Self-Navigation

Hiking the Trail? Here’s 9 Tips for Safe Self-Navigation

Getting lost on the trail can be a terrifying experience, particularly for solo hikers. But it’s also preventable with proper preparation.
Best Hiking and Backpacking Tents

The 11 Best Backpacking Tents for Hiking and Camping

The 11 Best Backpacking Tents for Hiking and Camping

The best backpacking shelters balance weight, bulk, affordability, and wet-weather protection.
What to wear camping

What to Wear Hiking: Menswear That Works On and Off the Trail

What to Wear Hiking: Menswear That Works On and Off the Trail

Want to gear up in style for your next hike? We did the leg work and found what to wear hiking. These picks work outdoors and in the city.
The "secret beach" at Ko Olina in Kapolei, Hawaii.

The Best Hiking Spots Across Hawaii, From the Big Island to Oahu

The Best Hiking Spots Across Hawaii, From the Big Island to Oahu

Heading to paradise, but want to spend time at more than just the beach? Check out some of the best hiking spots that Hawaii has to offer.
A hiker walking up toward a mountain.

The 6 Best Gifts For Hiking Enthusiasts

The 6 Best Gifts For Hiking Enthusiasts

Show a fellow hiker some love with our top 6 best gift ideas that will make their next journey memorable and exciting!
White and brown Timberland hiking boot on a white background.

This Timberland Hiking Boot Deal Cuts 18% Off the Price

This Timberland Hiking Boot Deal Cuts 18% Off the Price

Timberland's Men's Field Trekker Mid Hiking Boots are 18% off right now at REI, but this offer won't last long.
A man and a woman eating snacks as they look ahead.

Fuel Yourself for the Trail Ahead and Avoid Hiker Hunger

Fuel Yourself for the Trail Ahead and Avoid Hiker Hunger

Here are our time-honored tips for keeping yourself fueled on the trail and avoiding hiker hunger and the sugar-crash cycle.
A view of Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu in Peru.

These are 8 of the Most Dangerous Hikes in the World

These are 8 of the Most Dangerous Hikes in the World

From Huayna Picchu in South America to El Caminito del Rey in Spain, these are the world's most dangerous hikes. Take yourself to the edge -- but not over it.
hiking-france

6 Exhilarating Hiking Movies To Inspire Your Next Trek

6 Exhilarating Hiking Movies To Inspire Your Next Trek

When you're stuck inside, get a bit of that wild charm by watching hiking movies (both fiction and nonfiction) that put the natural world front and center.
Best Hydration Packs

The Best Hydration Packs for Hiking, Trail Running, and Day Trips

The Best Hydration Packs for Hiking, Trail Running, and Day Trips

If you spend any time running or hiking outdoors, it’s time to get a real hydration pack. These are the best to buy in 2022.
A trail runner overlooks a rocky pathway up the next incline.

Fast and Light Overnight: A Newbie’s Guide to Fastpacking

Fast and Light Overnight: A Newbie’s Guide to Fastpacking

Going ultralight is the new trend, but what about fastpacking? Learn all you need to know about covering maximum distance, with minimal equipment.
Fingers holding a map and compass in the outdoors.

Ditch the GPS: How to Navigate Using a Map and Compass

Ditch the GPS: How to Navigate Using a Map and Compass

No matter how advanced technology is, the age-old map and compass are indispensable. Learn how to use them with our quick and easy guide.
A majestic view of Zion National Park Angels Landing in Utah.

The 6 Best Day Hikes in U.S. National Parks

The 6 Best Day Hikes in U.S. National Parks

Hiking season is here and the trail awaits. Take in amazing natural experiences and stunning landscapes that only require day hikes through U.S. national parks.

This is How to Avoid Getting Sick While Camping

This is How to Avoid Getting Sick While Camping

Getting sick is never fun, but it is particularly unfortunate when you're out camping. Utilize these basic tips to stay safe and well in the outdoors.
beginners guide to mountain running close up of hand holding trail mix

Hit the Trails With These Homemade Trail Mix Recipes

Hit the Trails With These Homemade Trail Mix Recipes

Hit the trails this spring with your own homemade trail mix, customized to your tastes. Here are some easy-to-follow recipes to get you started.

The 15 Best Travel Pants for Literally Everything

The 15 Best Travel Pants for Literally Everything

To travel in comfort is to wear the best travel pants for every activity and environment, from finding comfort on the plane to embarking on adventure outdoors.
A man with backpack holding two trekking polls approaching a hut in the mountains.

The 7 Best Trekking Poles for Your Upcoming Hike

The 7 Best Trekking Poles for Your Upcoming Hike

In this guide, we'll give you a rundown of the best trekking poles as well as teach you how to choose the right pair of poles for your next hike.

10 Best Hiking Socks for Men To Buy in 2022

10 Best Hiking Socks for Men To Buy in 2022

The best hiking socks for men are all you need to ensure a comfortable fit both on and off the trail.
A breathtaking view of Yellowstone National Park at sunset.

Here’s What You Need To Know About Night Hiking

Here’s What You Need To Know About Night Hiking

While hiking in broad daylight is a lot of fun, doing it after sunset brings a uniquely engaging experience with the skies, the cosmos, and the wilderness.
A man in beanie and backpack standing atop of a mountain with his arms stretched out.

Backpacking Checklist: 13 Things You Need for Hiking

Backpacking Checklist: 13 Things You Need for Hiking

No matter how far you’re trekking or how long you’re planning to be offline, these are the best backpacking essentials you need to survive.
dirty muddy hiking boots

A Quick Guide on How to Clean Hiking Boots

A Quick Guide on How to Clean Hiking Boots

Hiking boots are meant to get dirty, but that doesn't mean they should stay that way. Here's a quick guide on how to clean your hiking boots.
hiking for beginners sunrise.

Hiking for Beginners: A Guide to Hitting the Trail

Hiking for Beginners: A Guide to Hitting the Trail

Our hiking for beginners comprehensive guide has all the tips and tricks you need to hit the trail with confidence this year. So, start your journey now.
best hiking snacks the preparation for tomorrow is doing your today

The Best Hiking Snacks To Fuel Your Time on the Trail

The Best Hiking Snacks To Fuel Your Time on the Trail

When it comes to fueling your next outdoor adventure, these best hiking snacks deliver.
A view of the mountains and the coastline at Big Sur, California

Here Are Some of the Best Big Sur Natural Wonders

Here Are Some of the Best Big Sur Natural Wonders

Since Big Sur packs so much natural beauty into 71 miles of California coastline, here's our cheat sheet of the best outdoor sights that Big Sur has to offer.
The tide pools at Arroyo Burro County Beach, Santa Barbara, California.

The Best Spring Break Beach Destinations for 2022

The Best Spring Break Beach Destinations for 2022

If you're seeking some surf and sand this spring break season, here are some beaches off the beaten path that deserve a spot on your itinerary.
Man wearing swiftwick flite xt trail socks in a field.

I Spent a Month in the New Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Socks

I Spent a Month in the New Swiftwick Flite XT Trail Socks

After spending a month running, hiking, and biking in the new Swiftwick Flite XT Trail, here are my impressions of Swiftwick's flagship trail runner.
Man on a mountain with the best headlamp of 2022.

The 6 Best Headlamps for All Sorts of Adventures in 2022

The 6 Best Headlamps for All Sorts of Adventures in 2022

Whether you're running down the trail after dark, pedaling to work before dawn, or setting up camp after hours, the best headlamps are here to light the way.
Best Fire Starters for Camping

The 8 Best Fire Starters for Outdoor Camping in 2022

The 8 Best Fire Starters for Outdoor Camping in 2022

Campfires are an integral part of any outdoor camping trip. Get your fire going every time with our best fire starters.
A man holding a phone in his right hand and a Somewear Global Hotspot in his left hand in the mountain.

The Somewear Global Hotspot Acts as a Satellite Messenger

The Somewear Global Hotspot Acts as a Satellite Messenger

The Somewear Global Hotspot is a backcountry GPS with a trick up its sleeve: It turns your smartphone into a two-way satellite messenger. Here's our take.
A man with a backpack standing on a rocky ledge.

The 11 Best Backpacking Gear Items for Hitting the Trail in 2022

The 11 Best Backpacking Gear Items for Hitting the Trail in 2022

Spend less time hauling and more time exploring with the best backpacking gear for 2022. These lightweight options are essential for any adventure.

7 Best Hiking Daypacks For Every Kind of Adventure

7 Best Hiking Daypacks For Every Kind of Adventure

Hiking daypacks are the daily drivers of the outdoors world: From hitting your local trails to going for your next summit, these packs have your back.
Tick on human finger

This is How to Avoid Ticks While Hiking

This is How to Avoid Ticks While Hiking

Going out for a hike and worried about ticks? We give you some tips on how to avoid ticks while hiking to prevent Lyme disease.
A tide pool at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point, California.

The Best Places to Explore Orange County Outdoors

The Best Places to Explore Orange County Outdoors

If you want to explore beyond the Magic Kingdom, here are some great outdoor destinations near Disneyland to visit in Orange County, California.
benefits of hiking

7 Healthy Benefits of Hiking You Need To Know

7 Healthy Benefits of Hiking You Need To Know

Whether or not you are an avid hiker, you should take a look at these 7 benefits of hiking to get you inspired to plan your next trek!
A Joshua tree and a sandstone rock formation at Gold Butte National Monument.

These are the Best Places to Hike in Las Vegas

These are the Best Places to Hike in Las Vegas

As Las Vegas emerges from its icy winter and into the comfortable warmth of spring, here are some great ideas for hikes in the area.
Mountain bikers riding the trails along California's future Lost Sierra Route.

Lost Sierra Route Could Be Your Next Epic Long-distance Hike

Lost Sierra Route Could Be Your Next Epic Long-distance Hike

If you need a trail that splits the difference between an average day hike and an epic hike, then maybe Lost Sierra Route is the one you've been looking for.