Columbia Steens Mountain (men’s) review: the first fleece midlayer
The first fleece midlayer for men — soft, warm even when damp, fast-drying, and cheap, with a track record few jackets can match.
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Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II (men’s) review: the budget boot that punches up
The value pick for a first hiking boot: waterproof, comfortable out of the box, grippy, and easy on the wallet.
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Carhartt W.P. Waterproof Insulated Glove (men’s) review: a warm, tough first winter glove
A warm, waterproof, hard-wearing glove built for outdoor work, and a dependable first winter glove for cold day hikes, snowshoeing and camp chores.
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Brooks Ghost Trail (men’s) review: an easy first trail runner
The soft, road-shoe ride of the Brooks Ghost on a grippy trail outsole. The easiest trail runner to get used to, for maintained trail and gravel rather than rough mountain ground.
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Danish Endurance merino hiking socks review: merino by the multi-pack
Merino hiking socks sold in multi-packs, so you can rotate a full set. Dry feet and real cushioning at a low cost, with an honest durability trade-off.
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Thermajohn Thermal Set (men’s) review: the budget first base layer
The men’s base layer to buy first — a soft, warm, stretchy thermal set for cold, easy days and camp, and the natural stepping-stone to merino.
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Columbia Watertight II (men’s) review: an inexpensive first rain jacket
A genuinely waterproof, seam-sealed rain shell that packs into its own pocket for the price of a dinner — the best-value first rain jacket. Our field review of the Columbia Watertight II.
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Frelaxy Leg Gaiters Review: the budget pair worth owning
Heavy 900D coated Oxford, full-length hook-and-loop front and a rubber instep strap on a metal buckle. Keeps snow and brush out for a fraction of a name-brand pair. Runs small, so size up.
