One of the great things about backpacking these days is how light gear has become. Overall, I imagine the load before fuel/water/food for a trip of four or five days is about half what it was 20 years ...

All products featured on WIRED are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Will the average tent owner ...

1. POLES The carbon-fiber shafts of Komperdell's C3 Carbon Duolock keep the weight of each pole to a mere seven ounces, yet on the trail they feel as sturdy as anything else. $160; komperdell.com 2.

Long days in the hills can be brutal on your knees and ankles – especially when the terrain’s rocky, muddy or just plain unpredictable. Every steep descent sends more strain through your lower joints, ...

The Marmot Turret 3P is everything you'd want in a three-man tent. It's lightweight, compact, and wind resistant. It keeps you dry even in the whipping rain, and it's remarkably easy to set up.