Stay updated with the latest outdoor gear news, expert guides, and problem-solving recommendations. From seasonal buying guides to breaking gear industry updates, find the best equipment for hiking, camping, and exploring the Sierra. Get expert insights and discover what’s new in the world of outdoor adventure.
There’s this instant, unmistakable shift in momentum the second you hit the trailheads in the Sierra. Up here, giant granite walls tower over glassy tarns, the air smells sharply of Jeffrey pine, and the singletrack seems to keep winding endlessly over the next ridge. Whether you’re escaping the city noise for a quick weekend reset … Read more
Search & Rescue Volunteers Need Your Help | How One Simple Donation Could Save a Life Episode Introduction Every hike begins with the hope of reaching the summit, discovering a hidden alpine lake, or simply enjoying another day in the mountains. But when an accident happens miles from the trailhead, a dedicated team of Search … Read more
Now Accepting Merino Wool Base Layers from Any Brand Previously limited to Minus33 items, consumers can send in any base layer containing at least 50% merino wool, giving products one last lifesaving use ASHLAND, New Hampshire (May 27, 2026) /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ — Minus33, a merino wool apparel brand created by textile engineers from L.W. Packard & … Read more
After a long day on the trail, there’s a moment every Sierra hiker knows well—the boots come off, your feet finally breathe, and you start thinking about recovery. It’s a space more brands are paying attention to, and now Baffin is stepping into that conversation with something new. The brand recently announced the launch of … Read more
From steep granite basins to high alpine ridgelines, the Sierra Nevada has a way of testing every piece of gear you carry. Long approaches, shifting weather, and heavy loads demand pack systems built for durability, comfort, and adaptability in rugged terrain. With that challenge in mind, Kings Camo has introduced a new line of technical … Read more
OMA Show 2026 – Denver, Colorado – There are a few booths at Outdoor Media Alliance where you can feel brand shift. This year in Denver, Jetboil’s booth was one of them. For years, Jetboil has been synonymous with speed — boil water fast, pour into a freeze-dried pouch, and get back to the trail. … Read more
Napier Outdoors, the leading innovator in vehicle camping tents, is proud to announce the launch of the Napier RoamAir Mattress, a premium air mattress built specifically for truck beds. Designed for outdoor explorers, weekend warriors, and road trip enthusiasts, RoamAir ensures a restful sleep no matter where the road takes you in the Sierra. “Comfort … Read more
Protect your car with pet seat covers! Enjoy adventures with your furry friend while maintaining your vehicle’s condition, comfort, and value.
A Practical Guide for Cold-Weather Trips in the Sierra Nevada Winter camping in the Sierra Nevada demands more preparation than any other season. Cold temperatures, variable snowpack, wind exposure, and limited daylight all raise the stakes. Whether you’re camping near Scott’s Lake off Highway 88, setting up a low-elevation basecamp in the Eastern Sierra, or … Read more
A Sierra Skier’s Guide to Heavy Snow, Big Terrain, and Real-World Tradeoffs Skiing in the Sierra Nevada is about adaptability. A single day can include chalky groomers, wind-buffed ridgelines, tracked powder, and dense afternoon snow that reminds you why “Sierra cement” became part of the vocabulary. This guide isn’t about what’s trendy or what skis … Read more
Building on the success of the highly acclaimed 4-Quattro Pro, the new GT brings enhanced comfort, versatility, warmth to SCARPA’s ski boot line. BOULDER, Colo. (Nov. 20, 2025) /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – Building on the momentum of its groundbreaking Quattro series, SCARPA, manufacturer of high-performance mountain footwear, this fall launches its new 4-Quattro GT, a new freeride ski boot … Read more
When you’re packing for a five-night, 40-mile backpacking trip in Yosemite’s high country, every ounce matters. On my recent trek through the backcountry near Nelson Lake, I had the chance to put the new Danner Octa Hoodie to the test. Lightweight, versatile, and surprisingly warm, this layer quickly became my go-to piece each morning and … Read more
Fast, clean, and confidence-inspiring water filtration for the Sierra adventurer. The Sierra has a way of reminding you just how important water is. On long, sun-baked miles of granite and dust, having a reliable water system isn’t just a convenience—it’s survival. For years, I’ve trusted Katadyn. My very first filter was their classic Hiker model, long … Read more
Trail-Tested in Yosemite | Trusted for 50 Years The Sierra doesn’t ease into fall. It snaps into it.One day you’re basking in granite heat; the next, you’re digging through your pack for a layer that actually works. That’s where Marmot steps in. This year, the legendary brand—celebrating 50 years of outdoor innovation—introduces two standout collections … Read more
By Sierra Rec Magazine Staff Oakland-based hydration innovator HydraPak is putting hard data behind what trail and ultra runners have known for years: carrying your own cup or flask is the future of endurance events. A groundbreaking study commissioned by HydraPak and led by crowd dynamics expert Marcel Altenburg analyzed the 2024 and 2025 La … Read more
Ultralight power meets trail-ready reliability in the Sierra backcountry. A Shift in Stove Strategy I’ve been a longtime fan of integrated pot stove systems like the MSR WindBurner—stable, efficient, and wind-resistant. But heading into our early September backpacking trip from Tuolumne Meadows to Yosemite Valley, I made a conscious decision: cut pack weight wherever I … Read more
The wild calls out in a voice that some people mistake for silence. Any outdoor enthusiast worth their boots knows, beneath the quiet, adventures bristle with possibility and potential mishap. Gear matters, sure, but it’s not just about what you carry. It’s about how you chart the unknown. Ignoring prep is foolish bravado. A paper … Read more
For the past five years, I’ve relied on quilts as my primary sleep system, especially when hammock camping in the Sierra Nevada. They give me the freedom to move naturally, regulate heat, and stay cozy in ways a traditional mummy bag never has. So when I came across the Outdoor Vitals StormLoft™ 15° Quilt (Long) … Read more
September is National Preparedness Month—a reminder that while we can’t predict emergencies, we can prepare for them. From wildfires and winter storms in the Sierra to unexpected power outages at home, being prepared with food, water, and essential supplies can make all the difference. This year, Mountain House—the trusted leader in freeze-dried meals for adventurers … Read more
Looking for open spaces, fewer crowds, and a chance to truly disconnect this Labor Day? The Sierra Nevada holds more than 17,000 miles of free, legal, dispersed camping opportunities — and thanks to new tools from OnX Off-Road, finding your next hidden campsite just got a whole lot easier. Discovering the Sierra’s Wild Side In … Read more
Socks, Soles & Sierra Miles: Why Your Feet Deserve Better on the Trail by Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine Feature Writer From the dusty granite switchbacks of Sonora Pass to the cool, shaded creek beds below Castle Peak, your socks are the last line of defense between comfort and misery in the Sierra. We’ve … Read more
When you’re putting in the miles on a High Sierra trail, scrambling over granite ridges, or just kicking back by the lake at dusk, the last thing you want to think about is your feet. That’s where Merino wool steps in. Known for its unmatched comfort and performance, Merino wool socks have become a trusted … Read more
Socks are a dime a dozen, and every foot has its preferred fit and feel. But every now and then, you slip on a pair that feels near perfect—not just for lounging at home, but for those long days exploring Sierra trails. For me, that’s been the Farm to Feet Greensboro Light Cushion 1/4 Crew. … Read more
If you’ve hiked the Sierra on a warm summer day, you know how quickly your feet can overheat, leading to discomfort and fatigue. One sock we’ve recently put to the test on Sierra trails is the Paka Trail 3/4 Crew Sock, made with alpaca fiber for breathable, lightweight comfort. Founded in Peru, Paka’s mission goes … Read more
Capture the wild, win new gear, and celebrate the artistry of adventure July 27, 2025 – Sierra Rec Magazine – Hiking boots meet camera lenses this summer as Oboz Footwear and Flickr team up to launch a new global photo contest and immersive outdoor event to honor World Photography Day on August 19. For Sierra … Read more
Performance-Driven Sunwear Without the Weak Links By Sierra Rec Magazine Staff If you’ve spent any real time in the alpine, desert crags, or backcountry trails, you already know: traditional sunglasses are kind of a joke. Hinges break, sidearms snap, and if you’re sweating out a skin track or hanging halfway up a granite face, they’re … Read more
When it comes to hiking in the Sierra, comfortable, moisture-wicking socks can make or break your day. One brand we’ve used regularly on day hikes and Sierra wanderings is Minus33, a New Hampshire-based company with deep roots in wool craftsmanship and mountain-tested gear. While we use a variety of socks depending on the trail, weather, … Read more
(Family Features) Summer is the season of sun-kissed memories – backyard barbecues, sandy beaches, bike rides and late-night stargazing. However, the warmer months bring unique safety challenges that can catch active families off guard if they’re not prepared. From sunburns to scraped knees and dehydration to bug bites, summer’s surprises don’t have to slow you … Read more
An ultralight, trail-tested solution for simple, safe hydration in the Sierra. As someone who’s tested just about every popular backpacking water filter out there—from pump systems to the Sawyer Squeeze and Platypus QuickDraw—I can honestly say the LifeStraw Peak Series Solo impressed me for what it is: a minimalist’s dream for weight savings and ease … Read more
AllTrails Peak Membership Launches June 11 Sierra Rec Magazine is excited to announce the arrival of AllTrails Peak, a new premium membership tier launching June 11 from the world’s most trusted outdoor trail platform. For Sierra Nevada adventurers, this means a new level of control and insight—both while planning your trip and once you’re on … Read more
At Sierra Rec Magazine, we believe in putting gear to the test—and when it earns our trust, we stick with it. For the past five years, Gregory backpacks have been our go-to on countless Sierra adventures, from multi-day treks in Yosemite to family hikes in Desolation Wilderness. So we’re thrilled to announce a brand-new affiliate … Read more
Stay safe outdoors with durable, versatile military surplus gear. Perfect for Sierra adventures, these survival essentials can handle any condition.
Finally, a gear-hauling suitcase that does it all—and still looks like it belongs on an adventure. By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine I’ve never been a luggage guy. For years, I’ve just crammed everything into a big gym-style duffel, slapped on a baggage tag, and hoped for the best. My wife has tried to … Read more
From cold canyon nights to cozy riverside rest—this sleep system is a game-changer for spring adventures. By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine When you start planning spring adventures in the Sierra, you quickly learn that overnight temps don’t care how warm it feels at lunchtime. For my recent overnight rafting trip on the East … Read more
By Charlie Pankey, Senior Gear Writer – Sierra Rec Magazine Since 1928, La Sportiva has approached gear not just with passion—but with what they call a Mountain Mentality. It’s a mindset shaped by the peaks themselves. It’s not just about making technical gear. It’s about honoring the experience of being in the mountains—devoted to every … Read more
Launching May 1st, 2025, Paka introduces the Ultralight Coolplus® Crew — a high-performance summer layer that blends natural alpaca fiber with cutting-edge Coolplus® yarn technology for the most breathable, moisture-managing knitwear Paka has released to date. Built for life on the move, the Ultralight Coolplus® Crew is designed for those of us who shift from … Read more
Escapod TOPO2 MTB: The Ultimate Off-Road Basecamp for Sierra Adventures Imagine this: You’ve spent the day tearing through technical singletrack in the Crystal Basin, weaving between towering pines and granite slabs, pushing your bike to its limits on rugged, high-altitude trails. As you roll back to camp, the sun dips behind the mountains, your legs … Read more
The great outdoors draws tourists with its promise of adventure, challenge, and connection with nature. Whether you’re hiking through rugged trails, camping under a starlit sky, or tackling a survival scenario, being prepared is key. Two essential tools that elevate your outdoor readiness are handmade custom knives and paracord beads. These items combine functionality, durability, … Read more
Redefine Lightweight Warmth for Spring 2025 By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine If your spring and summer adventures are calling you into high alpine terrain—or simply far from the beaten path—you’re going to want to travel lighter and sleep warmer. And this season, Mountain Equipment, the long-respected British brand born from the passion of … Read more
By Charlie Pankey, Sierra Rec Magazine You know that mid-afternoon desk moment when your energy crashes and your mind starts wandering to the mountains? Yeah, that happened to me today—post-Spring magazine launch, mid-dual-drum brain fog—and I remembered I had a little something new to try sitting right here on my desk. Canyon Crack Trail Butter. … Read more