Read This Before You Go Backpacking in Barefoot Shoes!
Wondering is backpacking in barefoot shoes is a solid choice? Read on for expert guidance about how to do it right.
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The 4 Best Sustainable Ultralight Rain Jackets for Backpacking So You Can Stay Dry Without the Weight
Looking for an ultralight rain jacket that won’t weight you down on your next backpacking trip or day hike? These are some of the best of the best if you’re looking to cut weight from your pack but still stay dry and happy during soggy expeditions. Bonus: All of these are PFAS-free.
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The 5 Best Ultralight Daypacks for Hiking so You Can Go Farther Faster
These 5 ultralight daypacks offer an excellent option for just about everyone (depending on your preferences, of course).
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The 3 Best Toe Socks For Hiking and Backpacking So You Can Live Blister-Free
Toe socks are comfy, come in all different materials, let your toes splay naturally, pair perfectly with barefoot hiking shoes (or conventional shoes) and yes, can even prevent blisters. We’ve worn plenty over the years and these are the best toe socks for hiking, trail running, backpacking and more. Bonus: They’re all more sustainable options (and vegan, which means they don’t contain wool).
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The 5 Best Ultralight Hip Packs for Hiking and Backpacking (That are also Sustainable)
We’ve tested plenty of hip packs, waist packs and fanny packs over the years (including more conventional hip packs) and these are the best ultralight hip packs that are not only easy on your base weight, but more sustainable in some way, too.
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The 5 Best Trail Running Vests (That are Also More Sustainable)
Here are the best sustainable trail running vests for short and long runs one uneven terrain (and how to choose the best one for you).
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The 3 Best Barefoot Trail Running Shoes (That are Also More Sustainable)
These are our very favorite truly barefoot trail runners with zero drop, wide toe boxes, no cushioning and plenty of flexibility, freedom of movement and groundfeel.
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The REI 4th of July Sale is Here! These are the Best Deals Available
It may not be REI’s biggest sale of the year, but the Co-op 4th of July Sale is still a great time to snag excellent deals on usually high-priced items from camp chairs to sleeping pads to sun shirts. Clearance and outlet items are on extra special sale and REI Co-op members can score even more discounts. Shop the event in store and online starting June 26.
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The 5 Best Barefoot, Wide Toe Box Hiking Shoes for Women So You Can Stop Abusing Your Toes [2026]
If you’re ready to stop torturing your toes and let your feet function like they’re supposed to, these are the best wide toe box hiking shoes for women (in our experience). The best part: they’re all barefoot, vegan, and more sustainable, too.
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The 4 Best Hikes In Aspen, Colorado According to Locals
Aspen, Colorado may be known more as a winter destination than a summer one, but trust us when we say there’s plenty to love––and even more to explore––in warmer months. If you’re heading to the mountain town (or considering a trip), add these stellar trails to your itinerary because they’re the best hikes in Aspen (according to us and local residents).
