Originally thought that all MH meals would have to taste terrible. Quickly found that I was way wrong.

The Spaghetti is the best tasting - and easiest on my stomach. Consistency of Spaghetti-O's, but with a better taste. Chili Mac comes in as a close second, though. I also really like the new tighter packaging - makes it much more convenient to pack and store.

I'm definitely a fan of long-handled spoons. They're the best choice for my primary lightweight meals - Mountain House and Oatmeal.

This version of the spoon works fine - the price is right off Steep and Cheap. The finish isn't as smooth as I'd like, though. I prefer the REI version.

If on discount, this is worth the price. Otherwise, I recommend REI's long-handled spoon.

I did a fair amount of research on the various gravity-based systems (Platypus, etc.). Landed on MSR as it had similar features, but with the MSR name, which I trust.

Thus far it's exceeded my expectations. the flow is fast and convenient and the unit packs up relatively small/light. I've used it in snow-fed high-altitude creeks and the extremely silty Colorado river near the Colorado/Utah border. It's done well in both situations, as long as regular/thorough backflushing is done.

The only difficult part in backflushing was realizing not to use the supplied attachment. As others have stated, when attached to a bottle, it creates a suction that does not allow the backflush to work. The easiest way is to start the stream filtering as regular. Then, simply place the tube into an open bottle full of water, snap off the attachment from the bag and ensure it's lower than the water bottle. Backflushing then works quickly and like a dream!

I highly recommend the autoflow. Reliable, simple and made by MSR. Tough to go wrong with this one.

First paddle I've ever owned, so I don't have a ton to compare it to. Having said that, I can't imagine a paddle much better than this. It's super light - I didn't notice it after hours of paddling. The paddle size and shape provides a gentle blend of power and efficiency, leaving the joints feeling fresh after a day of paddling. The locking mechanism/ability to change angles is smooth and easy. It locks well and feels solid. Breaking it down allows for easy transport.

And, while the blades may appear a bit fragile, they hold up amazingly well. Whether standing it up on concrete or using it to push off from shore, this paddle hasn't shown any type of wear and tear yet!

Before purchasing my kayak/paddle, I read that it is worth spending more money on the paddle and a little less, if necessary, on the kayak itself. After using this paddle for some time, I'd wholeheartedly agree! A great paddle like the Camano makes kayaking a very enjoyable experience.

I go Kayak Camping and this bag suits things very well. I use several 10 liter bags - they hold a fair amount of gear and slide easily into my Kayak hatches. They keep gear dry and feel super durable/reliable. I have several Sea to Summit bags as well - while those are nice, these Seal Line bags inspire more confidence. Two thumbs way up!

Use the smaller versions - 1 liter - to hold my small items (keys, wallet, etc.) in the back of my kayak cockpit. Cheap, small, simple, light and keeps out water. Works just as expected.

Purchased two sets of the Hullraisers to transport to 13 ft. kayaks on top of our mini van. After a few thousand miles, they've held up very well. We're able to tie down the kayaks without using the bow/stern straps and have gone up to 80 MPH with no real fear of anything flying off.

The only downsides are:
- They're tougher to load then a saddle approach, requiring use of a stepladder (we expected this and made the intentional trade off to more easily carry two on top of the car)
- It's challenging to add/remove them each time. They require a series of bolts and wingnuts. They do the job, but take more time than would be ideal. It would be great to see something that was easier/quicker to use.

Overall, a very solid choice for transporting a kayak!

I was looking for a durable tent for backpacking with the kids. I needed something larger (4 man), but as light and cost-effective as possible. It also needs to take lots of abuse.

I've looked at a LOT of tents and this is one of the best for the money (I got it off Steep and Cheap for a great deal) out there. It's about the same size as the Big Agnes Copper Spur - and while it weights about 2 pounds more, it's only 1/4 the price!

I've had it out in the sun and rain and it performed perfectly in both. The following are specific features I like.
- The pole design provides lots of crossing points and nearly vertical walls.
- The Jake's Foot attachments really do work. It allows the connection of the footprint, pole and fly in an easy/quick to use method. I haven't ever used it before, but really like it.
- The vertical door entry is very convenient.
- The window at the front of the fly makes checking out the weather especially easy.

Overall, this tent is tough to beat at the value. The Copper Spur may be lighter, but I'd buy this one again - especially for my use.

I own the 9ft. version of the slightly older Noah's tarp and love it for backpacking and kayaking for 1-3 people. It's awesome for keeping off the rain around camp for cooking, chatting, etc.

After multiple TERRIBLE experiences with the cheapo supercenter special blue or green tarps (they rip easily, are tough to fold up and even more difficult to hang properly), I decided to go with the newest version of the large 16ft. Noah for family car camping.

I've used it twice recently - once in solid rain and once in a crazy high-elevation windstorm. The tarp held up admirably in both. It keeps the rain/sun off well and protects a very large area. It's also a dream to pitch - lots of guyout points and the cut makes it hang very nicely.

The only downside is that it can easily turn into quite the kite (this is expected with its size). Make sure you have it well secured to trees in a strong wind - or be prepared to have to take it down. When the windstorm hit us, we ended up having to take it down (we were using poles as there were no trees around - and that just wasn't strong enough). I can say, though, that all the grommets/guy line attachment points held up very well. I was concerned that they might rip, but didn't have even a little tear while the wind really gave it a try. If we had it attached to trees, it would have stayed up just fine.

If you're looking for an affordable, reliable, easy to pitch tarp because you're tired of the blue monsters, go with the Kelty Noah - you won't be sorry.

We'd previously owned one of the cheaper 6-man family tents. The quality was so-so (it started leaking/falling apart a bit after just a few seasons of light use) and was missing some features (no vestibule/area for muddy shoes, etc.).

I used this recently on a daddy-daughter campout. It exceeded my expectations! The quality is bomb-proof, the features highlighted below are great and there was more than enough room for everyone. I was also able to set it up by myself (I'm 5' 11") with just a bit of help from my 2 young daughters.

Great features:
Vestibule - it is VERY roomy and absolutely perfect
2 Doors - really like the secondary entry at the back
Lots of pockets, etc.
Nice vents to keep airflow moving

I spent the extra money this time to purchase a tent that will last our family for many years and I'm confident it was the right choice!

I typically replace my tent stakes with MSR Groundhogs straight away. I find those are the toughest choices available for the rocky/hard Colorado soil I camp on.

I received a set of these with a recent tent, though, and as they looked better than the average stock stakes, I decided to keep them. I'm glad I did - they're just a bit smaller (just 2 ridges instead of the 3 on the Groundhogs) and lighter than the Groundhogs, but they're nearly as strong.

If you need the best of the best, go with the Groundhogs. Otherwise, these are a very solid choice.

I typically replace my tent stakes with MSR Groundhogs straight away. I find those are the toughest choices available for the rocky/hard Colorado soil I camp on.

I received a set of these with a recent tent, though, and as they looked better than the average stock stakes, I decided to keep them. I'm glad I did - they're just a bit smaller (just 2 ridges instead of the 3 on the Groundhogs) and lighter than the Groundhogs, but they're nearly as strong.

If you need the best of the best, go with the Groundhogs. Otherwise, these are a very solid choice.

As others have mentioned, this bag is a great choice. I'm a side sleeper that tosses from side to side during the night and the only thing I've ever dreaded about backpacking is sleeping. I couldn't ever get comfortable - and the bag would always get wrapped up.

The Big Agnes Encampment (and the Lost Ranger if you want a down version that is a little lighter and more packable) has solved the problem. When matched with a pad, the bag provides a ton of room - especially down by the feet. It also allows me to roll from side to side while everything stays in place - just like my bed at home. I also enjoy the integrated pillow holder - very handy.

The only downsides? The zipper does get caught fairly easily - like a lot of bags do. If you know it can happen and use it carefully it isn't an issue. I also agree that the temp rating is a little optimistic - I'd rate it more at 25-30.

Overall, though, this is the best sleeping system on the market, hands down. When paired with the Big Agnes insulated core sleeping pad (the MOST comfortable pad I've ever used), I can now sleep nearly as well as at home. Thanks Big Agnes!

As others have stated, the new 2010 BD Spotlight is a very solid (if not best in its class). The bright lights, dimmable feature, red lights and battery indicator are all great. And, if it's anything like other BD headlamps I've had, it'll last a long time.

My only gripe is that it's sometimes difficult to remember the right button pushes to activate different features (have to click and hold button for 4 seconds to turn on red light, for example). None are super complex and the instructions are clear, but they can be hard to remember when using it late at night for the first time after a while.

Overall, a great performer and choice. If I had it to purchase again, I'd still get the same one.

If cutting your packable size and weight by half are important, then this tent is for you.
Pros:
- Small
- Light
- Very Durable, even though the material feels light/thin
- Strong in heavy winds, rains and even light snow

All that being said, there isn't a ton of room in the tent. Plenty to change, store extra gear and sleep. Not so much for waiting out long storms with lots of buddies. If that's what you're looking for, go with the Copper Spur.

This is THE tent for solo backpacking. If you something reliable that beats nearly everything else in its class, go with the Fly Creek.

I'd read all the great reviews about this but still hesitated to purchase because 1) I already had a newer Thermarest that worked okay, 2) I didn't want a pad I had to fully inflate with nothing but my lungs and 3) I'd had bad experiences with pads with vertical looking baffles before (cheaper models that were very uncomfortable).

I ended up, however, purchasing the pad along with a BA Lost Ranger - mostly because I wanted the pad from the same manufacturer to guarantee fit, etc. I blew it up at home and was still a little skeptical as it took me 30-40 breaths and nearly 10 minutes to inflate. Not impressed yet.

In the end none of that matters, though. I just slept overnight on it on an early season campout and it is BY FAR the most comfortable pad I've ever used. I've slept on Thermarests and a number of other pads that always gave me a little hip soreness (I sleep on my side). This eliminated all of that. It felt nearly as comfortable as sleeping on my mattress at home. It doesn't seem fair that Big Agnes was able to make such a wonderfully perfect sleeping aid and blow everyone else out of the water - but they did. And I'll never look back.

As others have stated, this simply does its job. I like having the flexibility of using it as a standard footprint - or in fast-fly. Rating it a little lower as it is fairly expensive for a footprint. It's the nice, lightweight material that tent is made of - but at only $5 less than my huge footprint for the Big Agnes Flying Diamond 8, seems a little high.

Picked this up recently to go with a new Flying Diamond 8. The footprint is built well, sized right and does what it's meant to - extend the life of the tent. When purchasing such an expensive tent ($600 MSRP), this becomes a very worthwhile purchase.

Read lots of reviews stating this was one of Mountain House's better choices and purchased one to test as a result. I was skeptical, though, as I'm a fairly picky eater and don't like odd food mixtures.

Went out on a 3-mile hike with the family recently and ate this for lunch with the wife.

It turned out surprisingly well! The texture, taste combinations, etc. were great. And, it didn't cause any digestion problems on the remainder of the hike. I'll definitely be purchasing again!

I already own a few stoves (Windpro and Gigapower) that treat me well, but I was looking for something that would be more efficient and reliable for trips when gourmet cooking wasn't required.

Boy, does this thing live up to its reputation. I won't repeat everything others have said (amazing altitude performance, consistent performance throughout the life of the canister, etc.) because they are all true.

One particular thing that was most impressive, though, is the level of efficiency. With the pot off, it feels hot in a large radius (several feet above and several inches off to the side) - just like any other stove. When the pot is placed on it, though, a ridiculously large amount of the heat is directly up through the pot. When on, you can place your hands very near the sides of the burner/pot and not feel the heat, unlike other stoves where the sides still remain very hot when near them.

The Reactor's design is, simply put, amazingly innovative. If you're considering a purchase, go for it. You won't regret it.

I've been searching for (and dreaming about) a bag with just a bit more room - something that could match up with my traditional car-camping bag that is rectangular and nice and wide. This is by far the closest/best match so far. It's weight and packability is similar to other down bags with the same temperature ratings, so it's great for backpacking. And, I get to finally stretch out and sleep on my side (I turn from one side to the other multiple times a night - it works perfect in this system)!

The icing on the cake is the quality build and the ability to support a Colorado-based company!

MSR makes some of the best outdoor products available and the Evo Tours are no exception. I've used these on several trips this winter already in the Colorado mountains and they performed perfectly.

The traction is, as with MSR's other denali shoes, fantastic. No slipping - even on pure ice in parking lots and other similar places. The new binding system makes putting them on VERY fast (I was able to stomp them both on for the very first time in under 30 seconds - without taking off my gloves), while also keeping them attached to the foot as well as any other shoe I've ever worn. Great innovation.

Last of all, they're well constructed. I expect to have these for many years to come.

One thing to note is that if you weigh over 175-200 pounds (total weight - your weight, clothes, pack, etc.) and go out to deeper powder it's worthwhile to purchase the 6 in. flotation tails separately. When in powder, they really work well to keep you higher in the snow.

These are, by far, the best energy bar out there. They're unique (I've never tried anything like them), incredibly tasty and super easy to digest. The soft texture, honey and cinammon taste and quick energy boost make these my go to items for rides, hikes, etc. I can't recommend them highly enough.

I've come to expect lots from Osprey. I own a number of their backs for backpacking and hiking and love them all.

As a result, I bought the Raptor on reputation alone. I'm glad I did. It's perfect for my needs.

Perfect Size
14 liters is great for a standard day ride. I can fit the reservoir, spare tools/parts, a few small layers and plenty of food/snacks.

Perfect Fit
Others have complained about the back being too rigid and sitting on a single point of the back. Not so for me - fit is very comfortable.

Perfect Features
One of the best things about this pack over its competitors are all the small things. Helmet lock - very handy. Reservoir design (rigid bladder so it doesn't barrel) - genius. Stretchy outer pocket for a windbreaker - incredibly convenient. Hip belt pockets, cutouts for a rear light, well thought out interior organizaiton pockets, lots of compression straps. The list goes on and on.

Simply put, this thing rocks.

As a Scoutmaster - and a father - I usually have to carry a bit extra gear than usual and needed something slightly larger for longer day hikes. This pack works great - much better than the CamelBak day packs I'd used in the past.

Priced competitively with others (CamelBak day packs, etc.), it has the following significant advantages:
- The mesh back panel. It adds cooling comfort - and a place to stow the water reservoir if you don't want it in the main compartment.
- Comfort - the hip belt, perfect rigid/flex of the frame make this the most comfortable pack I've carried in this class.
- Integrated rain cover. Easy and quick to deploy - it works great.
- Hip belt pockets - for easy retrieval of smaller items.
- Trekking pole stow system - it works as it should, allowing poles to be easily stowed/retrieved on the fly.

As others have already stated, this is a great multi-tool, certainly the best available option at this weight. The pliers have unbelievable torque and the other available tools are nice. It'll undoubtadely last me forever.

The only downside is the accompanying weight - I sometimes like to bring a multi-tool backpacking and this is a bit heavy for that.

As a big Osprey fan, I bought this largely off of brand loyalty when I ended up needing a replacement for a 10-year-old backpack for carrying around some books, etc. The reviews and descriptions were promising, so I jumped in.

After receiving it, I was pleasantly suprised to see what I expected - and then some.
- The build quality and comfort is top notch, as usual with Osprey.
- I was especially glad/suprised to see how much it held. This was probably my biggest concern as I was coming from a traditional backpack. Lots of storage space - with 2 interior areas (one for laptop, one for other stuff).
- The description/pictures don't even show them all - there are 7 pockets! One on the front of the flap, two on the front when the flap is opened, a mesh pocket inside, a large document-sized pocket on the back and 2 water bottle pockets on the outside. This thing has crazy amounts of pockets. All the right size in the right place. Perfect.
- Even the buckles are well thought out. I especially like the clasp-style buckle on the shoulder strap. Many other straps require fiddling with the strap through a static buckle. This one has a large clasp you lift up, adjust the strap, and then close the buckle down. It's sturdy, works fast and is fantastic!

The Osprey Astro (or Elroy if you need more space) is a perfect messenger-style bag. If you're shopping around for a great bag, look no further.

I won't use a mummy bag without this liner in it. It has a number of great advantages:
- It's comfortable. I don't like mummy bags much. I find them consricting and don't like the feel of the material. This material feels very comfortable and is loose enough that it doesn't add to the already restricting feel of the bag.
- It's durable. I've pulled and pushed on it, with absolutely no rips or tears. It feels fairly light weight, but acts with great durability.
- It's light and small - at just bigger than a soda can, I can stuff this in a nook or cranny of my pack where nothing else will fit.
- It allows me to wash this without washing my entire bag. I'll give it a good cold water wash once or twice a year. It's held up great. Even better - so has my sleeping bag because I can wash it MUCH less often.
- It adds just a bit of warmth, which can help.

I was on the fence about buying one vs. making my own. I'm very glad I decided to purchase one. The fabric and quality of this are top notch.

I was recently looking for a small, light and reliable top-mounted canister stove for use on fast overnighters, on day trips and as a backup to my MSR WindPro (which is the best overall canister stove, in my opinion).

After lots of research on forums/reviews, I narrowed it down to the MSR Pocket Rocket and the Snow Peak GigaPower. I ended up buying both and brought them on a recent backpacking trip. Both performed well - both measured up to what I wanted. I had to make a call, though, as I was only keeping one.

I went with the GigaPower for several reasons:

- It's smaller (it's pack size and case are significantly less than the Pocket Rocket)
- It has 4 pot supports. Unlike what others have reported, the Pocket Rocket seemed very stable. Four seemed better than three in most cases, though
- It has an available windscreen. The Pocket Rocket has one built in, but the overall design of the added windscreen for the Giga Power will give better protection in the long run
- Simmering is just a tiny bit better, allowing for slightly lower temperatures - and the burner face is a little more spread out, providing for more even heat distribution

If you need an incredibly small, cheap, high output, reliable stove, go with the GigaPower. You won't be sorry.

As a note, if you don't mind a bit more weight (go up to 7 ounces), the WindPro is the best overall canister stove available anywhere. It simmers incredibly well (it's my go to for pizzas, pancakes, etc.) and allows for a windscreen.

I was recently looking for a small, light and reliable top-mounted canister stove for use on fast overnighters, on day trips and as a backup to my MSR WindPro (which is the best overall canister stove, in my opinion).

After lots of research on forums/reviews, I narrowed it down to the MSR Pocket Rocket and the Snow Peak GigaPower. I ended up buying both and brought them on a recent backpacking trip. Both performed well - both measured up to what I wanted. I had to make a call, though, as I was only keeping one.

I went with the GigaPower for several reasons:

- It's smaller (it's pack size and case are significantly less than the Pocket Rocket)
- It has 4 pot supports. Unlike what others have reported, the Pocket Rocket seemed very stable. Four seemed better than three in most cases, though
- It has an available windscreen. The Pocket Rocket has one built in, but the overall design of the added windscreen for the Giga Power will give better protection in the long run
- Simmering is just a tiny bit better, allowing for slightly lower temperatures - and the burner face is a little more spread out, providing for more even heat distribution

If you need an incredibly small, cheap, high output, reliable stove, go with the GigaPower. You won't be sorry.

As a note, if you don't mind a bit more weight (go up to 7 ounces), the WindPro is the best overall canister stove available anywhere. It simmers incredibly well (it's my go to for pizzas, pancakes, etc.) and allows for a windscreen.

I've owned a number of Garmin GPS units and each has treated me well. This unit is no exception. I've used it in a number of conditions and it continues to work well.

I chose it primarily due to its size - it is smaller, lighter and lasts longer on a set of batteries than the Oregon series, which I like. I do a fair amount of hiking and backpacking and it fits perfectly into most of my packs' hip belt pockets.

I LOVE its geocaching capabilities - the other reason for the purchase (if you aren't familiar with that, check it out at www.geocaching.com). It supports paperless geocaching, allowing me to download an entire caches set of information, including description, hint and previous logs. I can then record my find and sync it up when I get home. It works perfectly!

This is a great beanie - probably the best I've ever owned, with one exception (below). It's warm, comfortable, fits well and looks great.

Only slight downside is the care instructions. It says it requires dry cleaning. I didn't read it first (I know - it's my fault for not checking). I washed it in cold water, gentle cycle, no dryer - it still shrunk a LOT.

Definitely a worthwhile purchase - just make sure you dry clean only. I purchased a different NorthFace beanie as a replacement - one that can handle cold water washing.

On the positive side - my 4 year old son has a great new beanie!

I tried on a number of different beanies in the store. My head size is large, so it's sometimes tough to find something that fits well. I've always like the fit of the North Face hats, though, and this is no exception. I chose it over a number of other options due to its comfort. It fits well, is very warm and is priced competitively.

I've had these for a few seasons and used them in a number of conditions, including backpacking trips, longer hikes and light snowshoeing. They stood up to each well. They're extremely comfortable and have been waterproof for me.

This pad is great. It provides nearly the same warmth and comfort as my heavier "car camping" pads by Thermarest and REI. Not that those aren't great pads, too, but this one is signicantly lighter and smaller. I can roll it up to easily fit inside my pack (most others I go with have to hang their's on the outside).

If you're looking for a single pad that balances comfort, warmth, weight/size and cost, this is tough to beat.

Sure, this provides excellent rain protection - better than any other I've used. Here in Colorado, where we don't get a ton of rain, I still use it as my primary sun hat on most hikes and campouts.

As long as it's not 95+, I feel that it provides great sun protection - and I know I'll always be good if an afternoon storm rolls through.

I really enjoy the hat is that it's great for wearing around the campsite at night when things cool down, but aren't cold enough to put on my beanie. The fleece inner lining is a great insulator.

The final reason it's my go-to hat is that it's pretty bombproof. I can sit on it, crumple it up, stick it in/on my pack, and it continues to look great.