Honest, field-minded reviews of outdoor and safety gear.
If there is one device that has become the standard for calling for help in the backcountry, it is this one. The Garmin inReach Mini 2 packs global two-way satellite messaging and interactive SOS into something the size of a small stopwatch. Light enough that there is no excuse to leave it behind, capable enough…
Once you have learned real map-and-compass navigation, a basic fixed-declination compass starts to hold you back. The Suunto M-3 is the natural next compass: a precise baseplate model with adjustable declination and a globally balanced needle, built for the hiker who actually navigates rather than just checks which way is north. Our field rating ★★★★★4.7…
The Coros Apex 4 is a GPS watch with offline topo maps, dual-frequency GPS, a titanium bezel and sapphire glass. The 46 mm model tracks for about 65 hours on a charge. The screen is plain and it lacks smartwatch extras.
The Garmin Instinct 3 Solar is a rugged GPS watch with multi-band tracking, an altimeter, a compass and a flashlight. The 45 mm model runs up to 28 days as a watch and 40 hours of GPS. It has no maps, only breadcrumb navigation.
The Garmin GPSMAP 65s is a multi-band handheld GPS with a 2.6-inch (6.6 cm) screen, topo maps, a 3-axis compass and a barometric altimeter. It holds an accurate position in canyons and dense forest and runs up to 16 hours on two AA batteries.
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 has accurate GPS, offline maps, a bright screen and satellite SOS from the wrist. Apple rates it at 50 hours of use and up to 45 hours of GPS in a new extended mode. It works only with an iPhone.
Preloaded color topo maps, a barometric altimeter, and a 3-axis compass in a rugged AA-powered unit with no subscription. Our field review of the Garmin eTrex 32x handheld GPS.
Once you hike beyond cell coverage, a whistle and a mirror can only reach as far as someone can see or hear you. A satellite messenger changes the equation entirely: it lets you send an SOS, and two-way messages, to search and rescue from almost anywhere on Earth. The SPOT X is an affordable, standalone…
