The Outdoor Gear We Still Use Years Later (And Would Buy Again)

Ridge Merino Solstice Lightweight Hoodie

We’ve found merino to work especially well in Montana’s conditions for both sun protection and breathability. These are lightweight and don’t retain odor like synthetic materials. They also have thumbholes!

Fjallraven Abisko Zip Off Trousers

These pants have held up well through years of off-trail adventures. We appreciate the sun protection of breathable full-length pants and the flexibility to zip them off as Montana’s temperatures change drastically throughout the day.

Rab Microlight Down Jacket

This has been my go-to insulated jacket since 2016 for hiking, camping, and travel. It provides instant warmth without adding much bulk and has held up exceptionally well through years of regular use.

Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion Socks

After trying Darn Tough, we quickly became fans of merino wool hiking socks. They’re comfortable, breathe well, and help keep our feet from feeling hot and clammy.

Osprey Aura AG 65l

This backpack strikes an excellent balance between comfort and durability. It distributes weight exceptionally well, making long days on the trail far more enjoyable, and has held up beautifully through years of backpacking.

Durston X-Mid 2

This tent strikes an impressive balance between weight, livability, and durability. It has plenty of room for two people and has proven itself through multiple backpacking trips and some rough alpine weather.

Note: Durston Gear doesn’t currently offer an affiliate program, but we’ve included it because it’s genuinely one of our favorite pieces of backpacking gear.

Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt

We chose this sleeping bag for its lightweight design and versatility. It can be fully unzipped and used like a quilt or blanket, making it a comfortable option for everything from cool summer nights to shoulder-season backpacking.

Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Pro

I wanted a sleeping pad that balanced warmth, weight, and comfort, and this one has done exactly that. Its high R-value makes it versatile across multiple seasons, while still remaining relatively lightweight for backpacking.

Helinox Chair Zero

Being able to relax comfortably around camp after a long day on the trail has been one of the biggest quality-of-life improvements we’ve made. They’re lightweight, pack down small, and give us a comfortable place to cook, eat, sketch, or simply enjoy the view.

Katadyn Befree

We use the 3L gravity system for backpacking and an older 1L bottle for day hikes and trail runs, but it’s the BeFree filter that keeps us coming back. It’s fast, easy to clean, and simpler to maintain than other filters we’ve used.