Discover the latest outdoor gear releases, exclusive product launches, and top-rated equipment from our affiliate partners. We feature new gear innovations, brand collaborations, and special promotions, helping you find the best deals on high-quality adventure gear.
There’s something special about watching the Sierra Nevada change after sunset. The crowds disappear, temperatures cool, and familiar trails take on an entirely different personality. Granite glows under moonlight, nighttime sounds replace daytime chatter, and it’s not uncommon to spot wildlife that remains hidden during daylight hours. Night hiking can be an incredible experience, but … Read more
After six weeks and nearly 50 trail miles per pair, FORM’s Maximum Support and Reinforced Maximum Support insoles proved to be a meaningful upgrade for comfort, alignment, and long-day durability. Why I Tested These The reason I took this gear test on was simple and personal. I deal with recurring foot and hip pain when … Read more
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
Nearly every piece of gear in this guide earned its place in the Sierra Nevada. High-elevation trails. Dry air. Big mileage days. Cold nights that drop fast after sunset. Long approaches, granite underfoot, and camps set just far enough off the beaten path to feel earned. This was Sierra testing in its truest form—gear used … Read more
Getting outside with a newborn can feel intimidating — especially in the mountains — but the right gear can turn those first outings into meaningful, confidence-building adventures. For our family, introducing our baby to the Sierra Nevada wasn’t about pushing limits or chasing miles; it was about sharing a place that already held deep meaning … Read more
When winter blankets the Sierra in snow, the right gear can turn cold, wet days into your best outdoor memories. One piece of gear I found myself wearing nearly every winter adventure last season—whether on the trail or around the cabin—was the Outdoor Master Merino Wool Ski Socks. These socks deliver what matters most in … Read more
For more than a decade, Arcade has gone a different direction during the holiday rush. While most brands race to slash prices, Arcade leans into something more meaningful: strengthening the outdoor community through their annual Paying It Forward initiative. But before I dive into the details, I want to be transparent about something:I’m not just … 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
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
Durable, breathable, and ready for whatever your summer throws at you. When the Sierra sun starts blazing, your gear choices matter. Whether you’re exploring granite ridgelines, chasing alpine lakes, or relaxing at the trailhead brewery, you want clothes that move with you—and work as hard as you do. That’s where KÜHL’s Summer Collection comes in. … Read more
Field Notes by Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec MagazineTested during our Highland Lakes boondocking trip, June 2025 A Complete Sleep System for the Sierra This summer, we’re field-testing a full comfort-oriented sleep system from EXPED—a brand known for its rugged build quality and no-compromise camping gear. On our first outing to Highland Lakes, I put … 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
Words & Photos by Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine Sponsored by Mountain House, EXPED, and Nestout Summer is finally here, and with it comes our favorite way to explore the Sierra: boondocking adventures that get us closer to trailheads, earlier on the trail, and deeper into the wild. This past weekend, we kicked off … Read more
Your New Favorite Base Layer for Sierra Adventures When it comes to Merino wool base layers, I’ve had my fair share of frustrations—especially as someone with a larger frame. Too tight in the shoulders, too short in the torso, or scratchy after a long day on the trail. But the IBEX Goat Tee? It may … Read more
At Sierra Rec Magazine, we’re always on the lookout for brands that match the spirit of the Sierra — rugged, authentic, and built for adventure. That’s why we’re excited to announce our new affiliate partnership with KÜHL Clothing, a brand known for blending performance and style like no other. As temperatures rise and the trails, … 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
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
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
A Reliable Trail Partner for Spring Conditions in the Sierra If you’re looking for a boot that can handle rocky terrain, melting snow, and the unpredictable conditions of a Sierra spring, the Lowa Innovo GTX Lo just might be your new go-to. After logging over 50 miles of varied terrain—from Carson Valley to Convict Lake … Read more
No More disgusting Camping Knots or Gear Tie Down Failures Hey Sierra Rec crew! I just got back from the OMA show in Denver, and let me tell you, I’m still buzzing from the experience. One of the highlights? I had the absolute privilege of meeting the mastermind behind Nite Ize—yep, the owner and designer … Read more
For outdoor enthusiasts who love to venture beyond traditional campgrounds, finding the perfect balance between rugged adventure and a good night’s sleep is often the biggest challenge. This summer, Sierra Rec Magazine is excited to partner with Exped, a leader in innovative sleep systems, to put their newest camping gear to the ultimate test in … Read more
A Special Offer Get $1,300 Off by mentioning this article The Puckipuppy GoldenR dual motor electric bike is redefining cycling adventures with unmatched power, durability, and versatility. As a top choice for cyclists and enthusiasts, this innovative dual motor ebike delivers exceptional performance for both urban commutes and off-road challenges. With a limited-time $1,300 discount, … Read more
Innovo GTX LO is Lightweight, Rugged, and Ready for Spring Trails When it comes to finding the right hiking shoe for spring adventures, waterproofing, durability, and comfort are always top priorities. At OMA 2025, I had the chance to check out LOWA’s latest lineup, including the new Innovo GTX LO, and it immediately caught my … Read more
New style brings unparalleled visual clarity and performance from sea to summit Bellevue, WA – February 4, 2025 – Ombraz, the award-winning pioneer behind armless sunglasses, announces the launch of their Limited Edition Leggero with Polarized Blue Mirror Optics. Driven by customer feedback and the growing popularity of armless sunglasses for water and alpine adventures, … Read more
Elevate Your Outdoor Adventures: AllTrails’ New Off-Trail Alerts and Apple Watch Updates – A Perfect Gift for Tech-Savvy Trailblazers The holiday season is here, and if you’re looking for the ultimate gift for the adventurer in your life, AllTrails has just the thing. Their recent updates to the AllTrails Apple Watch app make outdoor exploration … Read more
Explore the Sierra Like Never Before: AllTrails’ Offline National Park Guides – The Perfect Holiday Gift The Sierra Nevada is home to some of the most breathtaking national parks in the world—Yosemite, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Lassen Volcanic, and even the rugged beauty of Death Valley. Each offers unique experiences and miles of trails to explore. … Read more
Elevate Your Ride: Cardiff’s 2024 Lineup As someone who spends a lot of time talking with snowboarders and splitboarders who love carving up the Sierra backcountry and hitting the mountain resorts, I’m always on the lookout for brands that resonate with the needs of serious riders. When I got the chance to meet with the … Read more
For anyone who loves outdoor adventure, Ombraz sunglasses are already known for their armless, screw-free design that eliminates the frustrations of slipping frames and broken sidearms. This holiday season, Ombraz is stepping up their game with the Limited-Edition Leggero featuring Blue Mirrored Zeiss Optics, making them the perfect gift for adventurers, especially those who spend … Read more
Bourbon, Bonfires & Browned Butter Bourbon Cookies Let me tell you something about fall camping in the Sierra: it’s not just a seasonal tradition—it’s a downright ritual for those in the know. The air’s a little crisper, the nights are longer, and the crowds? Well, they’ve mostly packed up and gone home. What’s left is … Read more
Timing is everything in life. In the world of e-bikes the news this week that Tahoe National Forest and the Tahoe basin is opening up over 100 miles of trails for Class 1 e-bikes, giving riders even more ways to experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake Tahoe region. With new trail networks like the … Read more
Intelligent, patented 3-in-1 design ensures maximum comfort wherever your adventures take you. SEATTLE (August 8, 2024)/OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – HEST, the brand known for its premium, portable outdoor and travel sleep solutions, is excited to announce its latest product launch: the innovative Pro Travel Pillow. Officially patented and designed to meet the diverse needs of travelers, this intelligently-designed … Read more
A Product Review From Sierra Rec Magazine Staff on the GoSun Chillito Cooler Let’s face it, packing for a camping trip can be a delicate balancing act. You want to bring enough food and drinks to last, but you also don’t want to be weighed down by a bulky cooler filled with ice. This past … Read more
Hey Sierra Rec readers! It’s that time again – time to celebrate a decade of exploring the incredible Sierra Nevada! To kick off our 10th-anniversary we are going to do a summer gear update series. Starting with this issue I’m focusing on a crucial but often overlooked piece of kit: the first-aid kit. Let’s be … Read more
The Sierra Nevada, with its towering granite peaks and crystal-clear lakes, is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers, backpackers, mountain bikers, and anglers alike flock to the Sierra to experience its breathtaking beauty. But the beauty of the Sierra comes with a hidden danger: the sun’s harsh ultraviolet (UV) rays. Reflected off the bright granite … Read more
Spring is just around the corner, and that means one thing for all you dedicated trail runners out there: it’s time to dust off your shoes and hit the dirt! But before you lace up your trusty old pair, let’s take a look at what Scarpa has in store for you this season. They’ve been … Read more
Built for modern adventure travelers who are up for everything Gear Reviews – The halls of the OMA Media Event in Denver were buzzing this February with the latest innovations in outdoor gear. It was exciting to be able to meet many great brands and see hundreds of new gear options for Sierra Travel and … Read more
Aventon Releases Its First-Ever Electric Mountain Bike With An Aventon-Designed Mid-Drive Motor Brea, Calif. – 2024 – Aventon, a California-based electric bike company, is thrilled to announce its first-ever electric mountain bike. Ramblas comes equipped with a mid-drive motor that was designed exclusively by Aventon, allowing riders to adjust their riding settings, providing a more natural and personalized feel. … Read more
Exhibits Latest Snow Gear at OMA Denver Media Show, Teasing Upcoming Cycling and Stand-up Paddle Innovations Denver, CO, February 21, 2023 – Outdoor Master, a prominent outdoor gear brand, announces its participation in the Denver Media Show today with its latest innovations in snow gear, including the highly anticipated Falcon Snow Goggles Lens by ZEISS and the Diamond II MIPS Ski … Read more
