Hands-on reviews and field tests of hiking gear
The gear you carry is your lifeline on the trail. Choosing the right equipment can mean the difference between a comfortable adventure and a miserable ordeal. Imagine relying on faulty gear in an emergency situation – it’s a risk no hiker should take. That’s why I’m committed to providing honest and thorough gear reviews based on real-world testing. From backpacks and tents to clothing and footwear, I’ll help you find the perfect gear for your hiking adventures. I’ll also share stories of gear failures and successes to help you make informed decisions. If you’re a gear manufacturer or retailer looking for unbiased feedback, I’m always open to testing new products.
Neve Gear Wallaroo 45L Framed Backpack V2 Review
Neve Gear Wallaroo 45L Framed Backpack V2 is an Aussie-made ultralight pack that strikes a good balance between weight, comfort, & features. Check out my review
Neve Gear Waratah Quilt Review
Quilts offer impressive weight and space savings. The Neve Gear Waratah Quilt is a well-designed and thoughtfully crafted piece of Aussie made hiking gear.
Aarn Featherlite Freedom PRO Pack Review
I used to think all backpacks were created equal. But then I discovered the Aarn Featherlite Freedom PRO. Definitely worth checking out. Here’s my review.
Water-to-Go Active Water Filtration System
I’m impressed with the Water-to-Go Active water filtration system – easy to use, effective, and durable. Check out my field test and review.
WAMA Organic Cotton & Hemp Underwear Review
Discover the comfort and sustainability of hemp underwear for your hiking adventures. Explore the benefits of WAMA hemp underwear in my review.
Olight Perun 2: Ultimate torch review
The Olight Perun 2: a powerful EDC Flashlight and Headlamp for easier hiking. Carry multi-use items with this 2-in-1 combo. Check out my review.
Olight Baton 3 Pro Max Torch Review
Discover the power of the Olight Baton 3 Pro Max – a 2500 lumens rechargeable EDC torch. Read my field test and review for all the details.
SCARPA Spin Infinity Trail Running Shoes Review
Discover the Scarpa Spin Infinity – the perfect trail running shoe for avid hikers. Read my gear review and find out why it’s a must-have for your adventures.
Explorer Rescue Swag: Gear review & recommendations
Discover the Explorer Rescue Swag – a versatile & portable gear that attaches to any item. Read my field test & review to see how it performs in any adventure.
SCARPA Ribelle Run Trail Running Shoes Review
Experience the exceptional traction and comfort of SCARPA Ribelle Run Trail runners. Discover why these trail shoes are a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts.
Darl Bars: A healthy treat review
Darl Bars: Handmade with activated chickpeas, organic seeds, and fragrant spices. Baked with a touch of organic brown. Perfect for hiking and snacking.
Ktena Merino Skins® Sports Active Range Review
Discover the ultimate base-layer for outdoor adventures with Ktena Merino Skins®. Read my field test and review to reignite your faith in merino wear.
Tesalate Workout Towel Review
Discover the ultimate workout towel – Read our field test and review of the Tesalate Workout Towel after a 110km hike. Find out why we were thrilled.
Zorali Recycled Venture Pants Review
Explore Zorali Recycled Venture Pants – sustainable Aussie brand offering eco-friendly outdoor gear. Field-tested and reviewed for your adventures.
Elinz 4K 60FPS UHD Sports Action Camera Review
Discover the Elinz 4K/60FPS UHD Sports Action Camera – a feature-packed camera at an affordable price. Read my field test and review now.
Illumina X Ultralight Hiking Tent Review
Field test and review – The Illumina X ultralight hiking tent is quick to set up and pack down, spacious for one person and gear, with a well-thought-out design.
Fjällräven Keb Trousers Review
Field test and review – Fjällräven Keb Trousers: technically advanced trekking pants with optimized fit and carefully planned details for ultimate performance.
Quechua 2 seconds pop-up tent review
Field test and review – Looking for a new tent for your weekend adventures? Check out the Quechua 2 Seconds Pop-Up Fresh & Black Camping Tent.
Quechua Forclaz Trek 100 Jacket Review
Field test and review – The Quechua Forclaz Trek 100 Jacket is a great spring jacket that will keep you warm and comfortable in temperatures above 10 degrees C.
Quechua MH100 Hiking Fleece Review
Field test and review – Discover the Quechua MH100 Hiking Fleece, a warm and lightweight eco-friendly gear that impressed me. Perfect for your outdoor adventures.
Nemo Tensor Ultralight Sleeping Pad Review
Discover the Nemo Tensor Ultralight Sleeping Pad – a lightweight and comfortable choice for your outdoor adventures. Read my field test and review here.
Patagonia Men’s Rainshadow Jacket Clothing Review
Field test and review – Looking for a light, supple, stretchy, and eco-friendly outer shell? Check out my Patagonia Men’s Stretch Rainshadow review.
Montem Ultra-Light 3K Carbon Fiber Hiking Poles Review
Discover the Montem Ultra Light 3K Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles – a sturdy and reasonably priced option for overnight hikes. Read my field test and review now!
ECCO Exostrike GTX Review
Discover the stylish and durable Ecco Exostrike GTX boots. Read my field test and review of these versatile boots for hiking and off-trail adventures.
Salomon Sense Ride 2 Trail Running Shoes Review
Discover the Salomon Sense Ride 2. Field-tested and reviewed, these shoes are great for day-hikes with their superior comfort, grip and durability.
Quechua MH500 Men’s Mid Waterproof Mountain Hiking Boots Review
Field test and review – The Quechua MH500 Men’s Mid Waterproof Mountain Hiking Boots are excellent mid-height boots that I really enjoy.
COXA M18 Day Pack Review
Discover the COXA M18 Day Pack – Read my field test and review of this versatile pack, distributed by Summit Global in Australia. Find out more!
Panda Child Carrier Review
Field test and review – Panda Child Carrier. Designed for harsh sun conditions, suitable for kids from seven months. The ultimate gear for outdoor adventures!
Ascent Explore Merlot Shoes Review
Impressive field test and review of the Ascent Explore Merlot Shoe. No wearing-in required, offering comfort, protection, and durability. Discover more!
SNOWGUM Cooper Waterproof Boots Mk3 Review
Field test and review – The SNOWGUM Cooper Mk3 boots have impressed me again with their ability to keep us upright and our feet dry, comfortable and protected.
SOARTD Minimalist High Performance Outdoor Clothing Review
Discover the ultimate outdoor clothing with SOARTD. My field-tested and high-performance gear offers durability and effortless style for your adventures.
Hammock Bliss Sky Bed Bug Free Review
Field test and review – Overall, the sturdy and easy-to-hang Hammock Bliss Sky Bed Bug Free offers comfortable sleep, ample space, and adequate support.
Trekkers Wool Review
Field test and review – I’m pleased I had Trekkers Wool for this hike, it made the experience more enjoyable. Find out more about this essential gear.
Montem Ultra Strong Cork Hiking Poles Review
Field test and review – Montem Ultra Strong Cork Trekking Poles are economically priced and suitable for various terrains. Upgrade your hiking gear now!
Montem Diadema 18L Hiking Day Pack Review
Field test and review – The Montem Diadema Day Pack. A cost effective way to add a day pack to your overnight gear without consuming heaps or space or weight.
CamelBak Fourteener 20 Pack Review
Field-tested and reviewed, the CamelBak Fourteener 20 is a versatile, lightweight pack (1.1kg) that offers comfort and durability for your hiking adventures.
Grivel G10 New-Classic Crampon Review
Field-tested and reviewed, the Grivel G10 New-Classic crampons are ideal for hikers and mountaineers seeking user-friendly equipment. Discover their ease and reliability today.
Grivel G1 Plus Ice Axe Review
The Grivel G1 Plus Ice Axe: A reliable and strong hiking/mountaineering tool with a traditional design, offering uncompromised strength and performance.
Osprey Aether AG™ 70 Overnight Pack Review
Impressive field test and review of Osprey Aether AG™ 70 backpack. Discover its remarkable features and benefits. Check it out in-store!
Back Country Cuisine Freeze Dri Food Review
Discover the delicious taste and wide variety of Back Country Cuisine Freeze Dri food for your next overnight hike. Read my field test and review now!
Jetboil Flash Cooking System Review
Discover the ultimate outdoor cooking companion with the Jetboil Flash Java Kit. Read my field test and review to see why it’s a must-have for any adventure. Highly recommended!
Helinox Chair Zero Review
Field test and review – I am a huge fan of the new Helinox Chair Zero. A huge fan! It is my chair of choice for any pack carry or multi-day adventure.
SNOWGUM Micro 600 Down Sleeping Bag Review
Discover the SNOWGUM Micro 600 Sleeping Bag – perfect for mild climates. Read my field test and review to find out why it comes highly recommended.
Klymit Insulated Static V Lite Sleeping Pad Review
Discover the top-rated Klymit Insulated Static V Lite pad with my field test and review. Find out why it’s among the best in the market!
SNOWGUM VaporTEC® Ultra Jacket Review
Discover the ultimate waterproof-breathable jacket for your outdoor adventures. Read my field test and review of the Snowgum Vaportec Ultra Jacket.
Helinox FL135 Hiking Poles Review
Discover the Helinox FL135 hiking poles – field-tested gear with excellent build quality, comfort, and lightweight design. Perfect for all your hiking adventures.
Fitbit® Surge™ GPS Watch Review
Discover the Fitbit Surge – a wrist-worn activity tracker perfect for moderate hikes. Read my field test and review for all the details you need.
TrekSta Kobra GORE-TEX® Hiking Shoes Review
Discover the ultimate hiking shoe – Treksta Kobra Gore-Tex. My field test and review confirms its unbeatable performance and value for mid-price range.
Big Sky Chinook 2P 4 Season Tent Review
Field-tested & reviewed, the Big Sky Chinook 2P 4-season tent is lightweight, durable, & spacious with large vestibules. Perfect for your 4-season adventures.
SNOWGUM Cooper MKII VaporTEC Boots Review
Discover the Snowgum Cooper MKII Vaportec Boot – a budget-friendly option for hikers. Read my field test and review to find out more!
Sawyer Mini Water Filter Review
Field test and review – The Mini is an effective, small, lightweight, and versatile water filter that won’t break the bank. Get clean water on your hikes!
Helinox TL Series Hiking Poles Review
Field test and review – These Helinox TL Series hiking poles are incredibly lightweight and compact, making them a must-have for any hiker.
ArmaSkin Dermal Protection Layer Socks Review
Discover the ultimate dermal protection layer with ArmaSkin. Read my field test and review of this essential gear for your next outdoor adventure.
SV Topographic Maps Review
Field test and review – Our SV Topographic Map gave us the knowledge and confidence to get it right the first time.
Outdoor Research Arete Gloves Review
Discover the ultimate alpine gloves – Outdoor Research Arete Gloves. My field-tested review reveals their versatility, grip, and dexterity. Get yours now.
Mountain Designs Gore WINDSTOPPER Jacket Review
Field test and review – I was so thankful that I had my Mountain Designs Gore® WINDSTOPPER® Jacket on my Field Test to Kala Patthar (5643m/18513ft)
Kathmandu Alopex GORE-TEX Pro Jacket Review
Field test and review of Kathmandu Alopex Gore-Tex Pro jacket. Withstanding extreme conditions on the journey to Everest Base Camp.
Aarn Featherlite Freedom Overnight Pack Review
Field test & review – Your choice of pack comes down to fit, comfort & your needs. The Aarn Featherlite Freedom packs look different because they are different.
Helinox Ground Chair Review
Enhance your outdoor comfort with the Helinox Ground Chair. Read my field test and review for a lightweight and comfortable hiking and camping experience.
Trail Tested Gear Reviews: All gear featured in these reviews has been personally field-tested by Darren Edwards, founder of Trail Hiking Australia.
Unbiased and On-Trail Tested: Unlike some online reviews that rely solely on web searches, my evaluations are based on real-world experience. I take the gear on the trail and put it through its paces, providing you with a firsthand account of its performance.
Interested in a Gear Review? Are you a retailer or manufacturer with innovative outdoor gear? I’m always looking for new products to test. If you’d like your gear to be rigorously evaluated on the trails, contact me today!