Field tests and gear reviews

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.

Gear Review Search

Neve Gear Waratah Quilt Review

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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.

Darl Bars: A healthy treat review

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Darl Bars: Handmade with activated chickpeas, organic seeds, and fragrant spices. Baked with a touch of organic brown. Perfect for hiking and snacking.

Tesalate Workout Towel Review

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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.

Fjällräven Keb Trousers Review

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Field test and review – Fjällräven Keb Trousers: technically advanced trekking pants with optimized fit and carefully planned details for ultimate performance.

Quechua MH100 Hiking Fleece Review

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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.

ECCO Exostrike GTX Review

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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.

COXA M18 Day Pack Review

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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

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Field test and review – Panda Child Carrier. Designed for harsh sun conditions, suitable for kids from seven months. The ultimate gear for outdoor adventures!

Trekkers Wool Review

36 Comments

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.

CamelBak Fourteener 20 Pack Review

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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

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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

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The Grivel G1 Plus Ice Axe: A reliable and strong hiking/mountaineering tool with a traditional design, offering uncompromised strength and performance.

Jetboil Flash Cooking System Review

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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

12 Comments

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.

Helinox FL135 Hiking Poles Review

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Discover the Helinox FL135 hiking poles – field-tested gear with excellent build quality, comfort, and lightweight design. Perfect for all your hiking adventures.

Sawyer Mini Water Filter Review

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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 Ground Chair Review

31 Comments

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!