A good night's rest is vital to the success of backpacking and climbing trips. Our Gear Editor Chelsey Cook has spent nearly two decades backpacking and climbing around the world, and she's convinced that she can suffer through just about any conditions during the day if she has a comfortable, warm place to sleep at night with a quality sleeping pad. A backpacking sleeping pad is an integral part of any sleep system. It gives the comfort you need to sleep well while also insulating you from the ground.

Gone are the days of thin foam pads or overly bulky air mattresses. The vast sleeping pad market offers everything from lightweight air pads for thru-hikers to high R-value options for winter backpackers and mountaineering to plush, self-inflating mattresses for base camping. We break down some of our favorite backpacking sleeping pads below, chosen for their comfort, durability, and packability after years of testing them in environments as far ranging as Alaska and Peru.

Editor's Note: We updated this guide on May 25, 2024, to announce the Best Overall Backpacking Sleeping Pad as the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT after three years of testing. We also added superlatives for the Best Backpacking Sleeping Pad for Cold Weather, the Best Backpacking Pad for Side Sleepers, and the Best Basecamp Sleeping Pad.

The Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads of 2024

• Best Overall Backpacking Sleeping Pad: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad
• Best Budget Backpacking Sleeping Pad: Big Agnes Divide Insulated Sleeping Pad
• Best Backpacking Sleeping Pad for Cold Weather: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT
• Best Sleeping Pad for Side Sleepers: Big Agnes Boundary Deluxe Insulated Sleeping Pad
• Best Basecamp Sleeping Pad: Exped&subId2=explorersweb MegaMat 10 Sleeping Pad

Best Overall Backpacking Sleeping Pad:

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad

Features:

• Incredibly lightweight for a full-size pad
• WingLock valve for fast one-way inflation and easy micro-adjustments
• Improved internal construction for a silent sleeping pad
• Includes pump sack and field repair kit
• Packs down to the size of a Nalgene

Why we like it: Lightweight, comfortable, and incredibly durable

What we don't like: Narrow, mummy-shape might not be for everyone

Weight: 13 oz | Thickness: 3 in | R-value: 4.5 | Type: Air | Sizes: Short, regular, large, wide

The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad ($209 for regular size), combines comfort with an incredibly light weight and is our overall pick for the best backpacking sleeping pad. Chelsey has been using the XLite NXT for over three years, averaging 40 to 50 days a year sleeping on it. The baffled construction keeps her back happy, and she loves how small it packs down, easily squeezing into any of her backpacks. While older versions tended to make a lot of noise when you were shifting around, Therm-a-Rest has updated its internal construction to achieve a near-silent sleeping pad.

The sleeping pad is surprisingly durable. Chelsey has yet to experience any leaks or tears in hers, despite dragging it across the Alaskan tundra and Utah's slickrock desert for years.

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Best Budget Backpacking Sleeping Pad:

Big Agnes Divide Insulated Sleeping Pad

Features:

• I-Beam construction provides stability while reducing the weight
• Aviation-grade weld strength
• Thermolite® insulation with a heat-reflective film to trap body heat
• Great warranty program

Why we like it: Comfortable, packs down small, reasonably priced

What we don't like: Not the most durable sleeping pad, heavy

Weight: 23 oz | Thickness: 3.5 in | R-value: 4 | Type: Air | Sizes: Petite, regular, long, wide, double

Ilana has been using the Big Agnes Divide Insulated Sleeping Pad ($120 for regular) on her backpacking and car camping adventures for years. It has a similar R-value and packed size as the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite, however, it weighs 10 ounces more. One of the reasons for the heavier weight is the rectangular shape, which may be more comfortable than the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite's mummy shape for some people.

The Divide is made of durable, recyclable, double-ripstop nylon fabric and has aviation-grade welds. However, Ilana's pad has sprung a few leaks over the years. Luckily, Big Agnes has an impeccable warranty program and has fixed and replaced the pads for her.

At $120, it's significantly less than many other sleeping pads in this guide, making it a great budget buy for new backpackers. There's also an uninsulated version of the Big Agnes Divide (R-value 1.5) for only $90.

Check Price of the Divide Insulated at REI

Check Price of the Divide Uninsulated at Amazon

Best Backpacking Sleeping Pad for Cold Weather:

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT

Features: 

• One of the highest R-values on the market
• Current model is 2.3 ounces lighter than the previous
• Durable, with 70D nylon on the bottom and 30D ripstop nylon on the top
• WingLock valve for fast, one-way inflation and easy micro-adjustments for comfort
• Comes with a pump sack and field repair kit

Why we like it: Incredibly warm without sacrificing weight

What we don't like: Expensive, shape may be narrow for some bodies, particularly when coupled with a high-loft sleeping bag

Weight: 20 oz | Thickness: 3 in | R-value: 7.3 | Type: Air | Sizes: Regular, large, wide

Chelsey has been using the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT Sleeping Pad ($239) as her sleeping pad for six seasons of Denali and Alaska Range guiding. With an R-value of 7.3, it's one of the warmest sleeping pads on the market. Coupled with a foam pad underneath, it makes the perfect sleep system for camping in the snow. Chelsey loves how lightweight and packable the sleeping pad is. It packs down to about the size of a Nalgene, making it easy to squeeze into already heavy mountaineering packs. The one-way valve and pump sack also make it easy to inflate and help saves her lungs at high altitudes.

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Best Sleeping Pad for Side Sleepers:

Big Agnes Boundary Deluxe Insulated Sleeping Pad

Features:

• Great for larger backpackers, comes in extra wide long
• Rectangular shape with bumpers means you won't roll off
• Comfortable for side sleepers
• Soft, quilted top and durable, ripstop nylon bottom

Why we like it: Durable and comfortable, cradles you while you sleep

What we don't like: Large rectangular footprint may not fit well in smaller tents, heavy

Weight: 25 oz | Thickness: 3.5 in | R-value: 4.3 | Type: Air | Sizes: Regular, long, wide, extra-wide

The Big Agnes Boundary Deluxe Insulated Sleeping Pad ($179 for regular) has a smooth, stable sleeping surface that is great for side sleepers. Our tester, Tanner, spent a month sleeping on the Deluxe in Southern California and liked how the inflatable bumpers kept him from rolling off the mat. He was also impressed with its durability; after a month of sleeping on loose gravel, his mat still held air. Big Agnes also offers wide and extra-wide sizes for larger-bodied backpackers. Tanner appreciated the extra room of the wide mat for his broad shoulders.

Check Price at REI

Best Basecamp Sleeping Pad:

Exped Megamat 10 Insulated Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad

Features:

• Incredibly comfortable, with 4 inches of cushion
• Self-inflating for easy set-up, mini-pump included
• 3D construction for the largest possible sleeping surface
• Horizontal air chambers to reduce weight and packing size
• High R-value, suitable for four-season use
• Soft-stretch polyester surface for comfort

Why we like it: Self-inflating and incredibly comfortable

What we don't like: Expensive, heavy, can take a long time to inflate

Weight:  73 oz | Thickness: 4 in | R-value: 8.1 | Type: Open-cell foam | Sizes: Regular, long, wide, extra-wide

If you’re looking for the best basecamp sleeping pad, look no further than the Exped&subId2=explorersweb Megamat 10 Insulated Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad ($240). This self-inflating mattress combines memory foam padding with air to create one of the most comfortable sleeping pads on the market. While the Megamat is too heavy and bulky to carry backpacking, Chelsey uses it for basecamp climbing and skiing trips, as well as car camping. The 4 inches of cushion are plush, and the stretch top fabric is soft and comfortable, with no crinkly sounds if you move around while you sleep. The high R-value makes it a great option for camping in the snow or on-glacier. Exped claims it's suitable for winter camping down to -54°F, but take that with a grain of salt. Testers have found that below about -25˚F, the plastic inflation valve becomes extremely rigid and almost impossible to remove/re-engage. It's not just Exped; all large-valve mats have that issue at extreme temperatures.

It also has a double version, the Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad. Chelsey has used this version on longer trips and loves how it covers almost the entire floor of smaller tents.

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About our testing process

The ExplorersWeb gear team is full of hardcore backpackers and climbers. We've spent untold hours horizontal in tents, and have inflated and deflated more styles of sleeping pads than they can count. We've tested sleeping pads at 17,000 feet on Denali, as well as while backpacking in the Cascades of Washington, the canyons of Utah, the mountains of Peru, and everywhere in between.

Ilana Newman started this guide in October 2022. She's a finicky sleeper who works as a guide and outdoor educator, so she spends upwards of half the year camping out. She values comfortable sleeping pads to ensure she's well-rested. She's tried everything from ultralight sleeping pads to air mattresses and memory foam pads, and likes sleeping pads that provide a stable, soft surface that she can move around on.

Gear Editor Chelsey Cook took over this guide in May 2024. She has over fifteen years of experience backpacking and mountaineering. As a professional mountain guide in Alaska, Washington, and Peru, she spends more time than is probably healthy sleeping in tents. She prioritizes sleeping pads with a high R-value that are lightweight and durable enough to get her through multiple seasons.

She's tried the majority of the sleeping pads in this guide, using them while guiding on Denali and in the Alaska Range, bringing them on canyoneering trips in Utah, and sleeping on them in the Alaskan Arctic. She led the charge on testing backpacking pads for cold weather and side-sleepers, and our pick for the best overall backpacking sleeping pad is the very same pad she's basically been living on for the past three years.

We chose a range of backpacking sleeping pads for our guide, prioritizing weight, packability, durability, and comfort. We tested sleeping pads for winter use, side sleepers, and base camping.

Types of backpacking sleeping pads

Closed-cell foam pads

Anyone who’s ever camped on a budget probably recognizes closed-cell foam pads. They're made from highly dense foam with tiny air cells for extra cushion. Modern closed-cell foam mattresses may also have ridges and patterns to provide more comfort and some versions will come with a layer of reflective insulation for colder climates.

They're cheap and warm, but not that comfortable. Chelsey uses them under her Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT Sleeping Pad to boost warmth while winter camping.

Air pads

Air pads are the lightest and most compact choice for backpacking sleeping pads. When deflated, they simply roll up and get stashed in a stuff sack. They're lightweight and comfortable but can be expensive and are also the most vulnerable to punctures and leaky valves. Most brands include a field repair kit with their air pads.

Self-inflating pads

Self-inflating pads are often combined with open-cell foam to increase durability and decrease the chance of punctures. While the self-inflation is a nice touch, these pads are generally heavier and less packable than true air pads.

Features to look for in backpacking sleeping pads

Size and shape

Most sleeping pad brands offer a variety of different sizes, from short to long, wide to extra wide. While most people can use the standard, regular-sized sleeping pads, being able to choose from a variety of sizes can help you save weight by downsizing to a short pad if you are a smaller person, or choosing a wider pad so you can sleep more comfortably if you are larger-bodied.

Backpacking sleeping pads typically come in two shapes: mummy or rectangular. Mummy sleeping pads are tapered, reducing the space the pad takes up in the tent. They are typically the lightest and most packable option, though the smaller sleeping surface may not work for everyone. Rectangular sleeping pads have a greater sleeping surface for additional comfort, but also take up more room both in your tent and in your backpack.

Inflation and deflation

Foam pads don't require inflation, but all other pads have an integrated air valve for inflation and relation. Most backpacking sleeping pads also come with one-way valves, making them easier to inflate and deflate. Some also come with inflation bags that you screw into the valve to inflate the mattress, rather than blowing the mattress up with your own lungs. These can be a great option, especially at high altitudes where you might be struggling to breathe already.

Some backpacking sleeping pads. are self-inflating, and are designed to fill up on their own. However, they usually need some extra, manual inflation to get them firm, and are generally heavier than other sleeping pads.

Weight and packability

Since you'll be carrying your backpacking sleeping pad, a general rule of thumb is the lighter the better. However, keep in mind that ultralight pads tend to not be as durable as mid-weight pads. Backpacking sleeping pads that balance lightweight and durability generally weigh between 12 and 25 ounces.

You should also consider what size your sleeping pad packs down to. Air pads, like the  Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad pack down as small as a Nalgene bottle. Foam and self-inflating pads, on the other hand, can be bulky, and may not fit well in every backpack.

Comfort

Without a decent night’s sleep, you’ll struggle to wake up in the morning, feel drained, and may even suffer from soreness, aches, or pains. If comfort is a priority for you, look for a backpacking sleeping pad that is at least 3 inches thick and has a soft sleeping surface. Some sleeping pads can also be really noisy when you move around, so if you're a light sleeper, go for a quieter model like the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad.

R-value

The R-value of a sleeping pad is the amount of insulation the pad offers between you and the ground, which directly affects the warmth of the sleeping pad. The higher the R-value, the warmer the sleeping pad. An R-value below 3 is suitable only for summer camping, while an R-value between 3 and 5 is good for three-season camping. For winter camping, you'll want a pad with an R-value of at least 5. We prefer something with an R-value closer to 7 or 8 for winter camping, like Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT Sleeping Pad.

Frequently asked questions about backpacking sleeping pads

What is the most comfortable backpacking sleeping pad?

Everyone has different comfort preferences when it comes to backpacking sleeping pads, depending on their bodies and what positions they sleep in. The most comfortable pad for you is the one that lets you get the best night's rest. If you can, test out different pads before making your purchase.

How heavy should your backpacking sleeping pad be?

Since you'll be carrying your backpacking sleeping pad, you want to choose one that is as light as possible without sacrificing too much comfort. Three-season pads are lighter than insulated four-season pads, but any sleeping pad between 10 and 25 ounces is suitable for backpacking.

How thick should your sleeping pad be?

The standard-sized backpacking sleeping pad is around three inches thick, whereas some car camping air mattresses can be eight or nine inches thick. If you're looking for something lightweight and packable, you may need to sacrifice thickness. But if you're only looking for comfort and don't mind the added weight, go as thick as you want, as long as it still fits in your backpack.

What is the best sleeping pad for side sleepers?

The best backpacking sleeping pad for side sleepers that we've tested is the Big Agnes Boundary Deluxe Insulated Sleeping Pad It has a smooth, stable sleeping surface and inflatable bumpers to keep you from rolling off.

If you spend a lot of time outside, regardless of whether you live in a sunny climate or not, you know the importance of a quality pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV light and prevent eye strain. Polarized sunglasses take this a step further by reducing glare from flat surfaces like water and snow, making them a critical piece of gear skiing, mountaineering, packrafting, canoeing, and other adventures. They're also a great everyday option for driving.

With so many different sunglasses on the market, it can be difficult to know which pair to choose. To help you pick, we tested dozens of sunglasses all over the country, from skiing in the Cascades to rock climbing in the Southwest. We've run at 14,000ft, where the sun's rays are more intense, and we've swam, fished, and paddle-boarded on lakes and rivers where polarized lenses help cut the glare from the water's reflective surface. The sunglasses we chose for this guide are made for a variety of different purposes, from everyday wear to running, biking, and skiing. We also chose polarized sunglasses in a range of different shapes and materials.

Editor's Note: We updated this guide on May 15, 2024, to announce the Roka Rory 2.0 Sunglasses as our Best Overall Polarized Sunglasses, and the Goodr OGs Polarized Sunglasses as our Best Budget Polarized Sunglasses. We also added superlatives for Most Protective Polarized Sunglasses and Best Polarized Sunglasses for Biking and Skiing.

Our Picks for the Best Polarized Sunglasses of 2024

• Best Overall Polarized Sunglasses: Roka Rory 2.0 Sunglasses
• Best Polarized Sunglasses Runner-Up: Bajio Cometa Polarized Sunglasses
• Best Everyday Polarized Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer Polarized Sunglasses
• Best Polarized Aviator Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Aviator Classic Polarized Sunglasses
• Most Protective Polarized Sunglasses: Wiley X Founder Polarized Sunglasses
• Best Sunglasses for Biking and Skiing: Smith&subId2=explorersweb Wildcat Sunglasses 
• Best Budget Polarized Sunglasses: Goodr OGs Polarized Sunglasses

Best Overall Polarized Sunglasses:

Roka Rory 2.0 Sunglasses

Features:

• Durable, lightweight, and flexible with high-impact strength
• Chemical and sweat-resistant
• GEKO Pads on the temples and nose for extra traction
• 1,000-day warranty
• Scratch resistant
• Hydrophilic properties - tackier when wet or sweaty

Why we like them: Incredibly lightweight, stay in place while running and jumping, sweat resistant

What we don't like: Expensive, don't offer the most coverage

Frame material: Nylon | Lens material: Polycarbonate  | VLT: 9 to 17%

Chelsey has been using the Roka Rory 2.0 Sunglasses ($220) as her daily-wear polarized sunglasses for years. When she finally stepped on and snapped the arm of her original pair, she tried a few other sunglasses before going right back to the Rokas. She loves how lightweight they are, and that they don't bounce on her face while running. The frames are also low enough profile to fit easily under the brim of a baseball cap or a helmet.

The Roka Rory's have several lenses to choose from, with a range of VLT percentages. The lenses themselves are startlingly clear, and offer a crisp view with a wide field of vision. They're fog-resistant, making them a great choice for sweaty adventures.

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Best Polarized Sunglasses Runner-Up:

Bajio Cometa Sunglasses

Features:

• Blocks 95% of bad blue light
• LAPIS lens technology
• Ergo, non-slip rubber nose pads
• Comfortable barrel hinges
• Glare-blocking frames
• Carbon neutral company

Why we like them: Excellent color-enhancing protection, scratch-resistant lenses

What we don't like: Expensive, thick frames

Frame material: Nylon | Lens material: Polycarbonate or glass  | VLT: N/A

The Bajio Cometa Sunglasses ($209), which are specifically designed for long days on the water, are a stylish and functional addition to anyone’s sunglass arsenal. They feature high-quality frames in a few different colors, and you can choose between polycarbonate and glass lenses, as well as a variety of tints. Ilana has the pink gloss frame and blue mirror lens combination, and they're great for everyday use, as well as fishing, paddleboarding, and river trips. Ilana also wore them to protect her sensitive eyes after she suffered a major concussion, and liked how much of the sun's glare they blocked. A built-in sun ledge on the interior offers even more protection.

The frame is made of bio-based nylon and is sturdy, lightweight, and sits comfortably on your face. We also love the rubber nose pads, five-barrel hinges, and hidden rubber temple tips.

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Best Everyday Polarized Glasses:

Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer Polarized Sunglasses

Features:

• Polarized and coated with 100% UV protection
• Unisex acetate frame
• Different frame sizes available
• Crystal Lens
• Case and lens cloth included

Why we like them: High quality and comfortable, classic design

What we don't like: Frames feel heavy and can bounce when running

Frame material: Acetate | Lens material: Glass | VLT: 15%

Ray-Ban Wayfarers ($180) are classically shaped sunglasses that look good on just about anyone. Multiple-sized frames allow you to pick the one that best fits you, and there are also plenty of lens options. The legendary Ray-Ban polarized lenses provide complete UV protection while reducing glare and eye strain, and improving contrast and clarity. The crystal lenses are scratch-resistant and extremely durable.

The Ray-Ban Wayfarers, with their classic look and high-quality lenses, are a great option for everyday sunglasses.

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Best Polarized Aviator Sunglasses:

Ray-Ban Aviator Classic Polarized Sunglasses

Features:

• Adjustable nose pads
• One of the most iconic sunglass models in the world
• Available in prescription lenses
• Available in multiple sizes

Why we like them: Incredibly lightweight, sweat-resistant

What we don't like: Expensive, may not be suitable for running and high-impact sports

Frame material: Metal | Lens material: Glass | VLT: N/A

Propelled back to popularity in the 1980s thanks to the movie Top Gun, Ray-Ban Aviators ($180) are arguably the world’s most iconic sunglasses. Originally designed for pilots back in 1938, they’ve stood the test of time and have retained their popularity thanks to their classic look and crystal-clear lenses. The thin metal frame with the instantly recognizable inverted teardrop lens has spawned a host of imitators — none of which live up to the quality and style of the original.

With plenty of different sizes, lenses, and frame colors to choose from, this is a design that suits just about any face shape. The polarized glass lenses improve clarity and contrast while reducing glare and providing UV protection.

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Most Protective Sunglasses:

Wiley X Founder Polarized Sunglasses

Features:

• 100% protection from UVA and UVB with distortion-free clarity
• ANSI Z87.1 safety standards rated
• Lightweight frame
• Removable side shields

Why we like them: Safety glasses rated, full coverage

What we don't like: Expensive, may feel large on smaller faces

Frame material: Nylon | Len material: Polycarbonate | VLT: N/A

Wiley X is a family-owned and veteran-founded company dedicated to creating protective, tactical eyewear that also looks good.  The Wiley X Founder Sunglasses ($206) are Chelsey's favorite full-coverage sunglasses. The frames are lightweight with a sleek look and dual-injected rubber temples for a no-slip fit.

Wiley X's entire range of eyewear meets or exceeds industry standards for safety and optics and the Founders have ANSI Z87.1-rated frames, so they can double as safety glasses. Their full-coverage lenses and the removable side shields for the frames also make these sunglasses an ideal choice for high-speed activities such as cycling, skiing, and snowboarding. The polarized lenses can be swapped for custom prescription lenses as well.

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Best Sunglasses for Biking and Skiing:

Smith Wildcat Sunglasses 

Features:

• Performance sunglasses made for cycling, running, and biking
• Hydroleophobic coating resists water, oil, and smudges
• Temple and nose pads are designed for a secure fit when sweating
• Bonus, interchangeable clear lens for cloudy days

Why we like them: Full coverage frame inspired by ski goggles, secure fit that doesn't bounce

What we don't like: Expensive, frames can be tricky to swap in and out

Frame material: Bio-based plastic | Len material: Polycarbonate | VLT: N/A

The Smith Wildcat Sunglasses ($225) are Chelsey's favorite glasses for mountain biking, trail running, and backcountry skiing. The full-coverage lens has a slight wrap-around fit, which protects her eyes and keeps them from watering at higher speeds. The ChromoPop lens also enhances natural colors for sunny days and there's a bonus clear lens for cloudy days when you want eye protection without a tint. With grippy nose pads and temples, these polarized frames won't slip when bounced around or when you're sweaty.

Smith also offers the Bobcat Sunglasses, which are made for smaller faces.

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No matter what activities you enjoy outside, sunscreen should be a critical piece of your day-to-day self-care and your outdoor gear kit. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with one in five Americans developing skin cancer in their lifetime. One of the main risk factors is excessive UV exposure and sunburn. While everyone is at risk of excessive UV exposure, people who spend a lot of time outdoors hiking, biking, skiing, and swimming are at a higher risk simply due to the duration of exposure.

Thankfully, one of the easiest ways to mitigate this is by consistent use of sunscreen. Sunscreen protects you from harmful rays, and consistent sunscreen use has been shown to prevent sunburns and premature aging.

While there are plenty of sunscreens on the market to choose from, some are better than others. To help you pick the right sunscreen for you, we tested a dozen sunscreens over the course of two years, wearing them as our daily protection, trying them at the beach and while hiking, and using them to protect our tattoos. Gear Editor Chelsey Cook also tested several products on the high-altitude glaciers of the Alaska Range, where the sun is relentless and sometimes shines for over 20 hours a day.

From our extensive testing, we chose a range of mineral- and chemical-based sunscreens, in lotion, face stick, and spray applications for the best sunscreens of 2024. We prioritized sunscreens that were easy to apply, offered good protection, didn't irritate our skin, and were healthy for the environment. All of the sunscreens on this list are water-resistant and offer broad-spectrum protection.

Editor's Note: We updated this guide on May 10, 2024, to ensure our product selection and buying advice were up to date with 2024’s sunscreen market. We also added superlatives such as Best Face Stick Sunscreen, Best Spray Sunscreen, and Best Sunscreen Chapstick. We updated the Best-Reef Safe from Badger SPF 35 Sport Mineral Sunscreen to Badger SPF 40 Sport Mineral Sunscreen after additional testing. 

Our picks for the best sunscreen of 2024

• Best Overall Sunscreen: Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen
• Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Badger SPF 40 Sport Mineral Sunscreen
• Best Face Stick Sunscreen: Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Face Stick
• Best Mineral Sunscreen: Coppertone Sport Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
• Best Tinted Sunscreen: Amavara Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
• Best Scented Sunscreen: Alba Botanica SPF 45 Sunscreen Lotion
• Best Spray Sunscreen: Supergoop! PLAY SPF 50 Body Mist
• Best Sunscreen Chapstick: Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm

Best Overall:

Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen

Features:

• Dermatologist recommended
• Moisturizing with added vitamin E
• Sweat- and water-resistant
• Reef friendly
• Broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays
• Vegan and cruelty-free

Why We Like It: Easy to apply and rub in, nongreasy feeling, smells great

What We Don't Like: Comes in a large container that isn't easy to pack away

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene | Water-Resistant: Yes, 80 minutes | Reef Friendly: Possibly | Size: 8 ounces

Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen ($18) is our pick for the best overall sunscreen. It's Chelsey's go-to sunscreen for summer adventures, and she loves how easily it spreads and blends in, making application on her legs and arms quick and easy. Our tester Kirby uses it as her daily sunscreen to protect her tattoos.

Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen is water-resistant, nongreasy, fragrant, and has added vitamin E to leave your skin feeling soft. It's paraben-free, cruelty-free, vegan, and hypoallergenic, and our skin didn't break out after repeated uses. While it is considered reef-safe under Hawaii’s sunscreen law, it contains octocrylene, which the Coral Reef Alliance does not recommend for use in the ocean.

It does come in a large bottle that isn't the greatest for stashing in a backpack. Chelsey transfers some to small travel tubes, like the GoToob+ Squeeze Bottles before heading out on any day hikes or backpacking trips. Read Kirby's in-depth review on Sun Bum Original SPF 50.

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Best Environmentally Friendly Sunscreen:

Badger SPF 40 Sport Mineral Sunscreen

Features:

• Made with 98 percent organic ingredients
• Clear zinc for easier application
• Certified reef safe
• Only includes four ingredients
• Packaged sustainably in a 50 percent PCR tube
• Broad spectrum protection
• Vitamin E and sunflower oil added to moisturize

Why We Like It: Organic, reef-safe ingredients that offer great sun protection

What We Don't Like: Thick, difficult to apply

Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide | Water-Resistant: Yes, 80 minutes | Reef Friendly: Yes | Size: 2.9 ounces

Badger SPF 40 Sport Mineral Sunscreen ($18) is replacing our previous Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen, Badger SPF 35 Zinc Oxide Sport Sunscreen after more testing because of the additional SPF protection. This sunscreen is one of Chelsey's favorite sunscreens on personal expeditions involving glacier or snow travel because it is thick and very protective, containing 22.5 percent zinc oxide. It's also a very environmentally friendly option, with only four, mostly organic, ingredients. It's reef-friendly, cruelty-free, and made with solar power. Badger, a family-owned brand, added sunflower oil, beeswax, and vitamin E to soothe and moisturize your skin.

Because of the high zinc oxide content, this sunscreen is thick and a little hard to apply. It often leaves a white residue, but it’s worth it if maximum protection is your main objective.

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Best Face Stick Sunscreen:

Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Face Stick

Features:

• Easy to apply face stick
• Broad spectrum sun protection
• Free from paraben, mineral oil, silicone, and dyes
• Hypoallergenic
• Vegan and cruelty-free
• Tiny container for easy travel

Why We Like It: Easy to apply on the go, small enough to stash in your pants pocket

What We Don't Like: Difficult to spread when cold, leaves a white film on skin if not rubbed in

Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide | Water-Resistant: Yes, 80 minutes | Reef Friendly: Yes | Size: 0.5 ounces

Sunscreen face sticks look like little deodorant sticks and contain sunscreen in a solid form. They're incredibly easy to apply; take off the cap, roll up some sunscreen, and rub the stick on your face. Chelsey swears by this quick, no-mess sunscreen option and her favorite is the Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Face Stick. ($13.50) Containing 19 percent zinc oxide, it's a surprisingly powerful sunscreen in a tiny container. Chelsey keeps it in the pocket of her soft-shell pants while traveling on the glaciers of Alaska, and likes that she can quickly apply it one-handed while moving on a rope team. It's also a great option for on-the-go applications while hiking or paddling.

The solid sunscreen can be difficult to apply if it gets cold, so Chelsey keeps the stick in a pocket close to her body to keep it warm.

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Best Mineral Sunscreen:

Coppertone SPF 50 Sport Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Features:

• Budget-friendly mineral-based option
• 100 percent naturally sourced zinc oxide
• Broad spectrum coverage
• Paraben-free and dye-free
• Hypoallergenic and friendly for sensitive skin

Why We Like It: Spreads easily, particularly for a zinc oxide-based sunscreen

What We Don't Like: Like many mineral-based sunscreens, it doesn't smell the best

Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide | Water-Resistant: Yes, 80 minutes | Reef Friendly: Yes | Size: 5 ounces

While we like that mineral sunscreens are all-natural, zinc oxide is infamous for spreading like cream cheese and leaving a white film on your face. We like Coppertone's SPF 50 Sport Mineral Sunscreen ($19 for a two-bottle bundle) because it's easy to apply and barely leaves a white sheen on your skin, which fades quickly once fully rubbed in.

Coppertone uses 100 percent naturally sourced zinc, and the sunscreen is dye-free, paraben-free, and hypoallergenic. It's also less expensive than many other sunscreens we tested, making it a great budget-friendly option for people wanting to try mineral-based sunscreen.

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Best Tinted Sunscreen:

Amavara Tinted SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen

Features:

• Tinted mineral sunscreen
• Broad spectrum protection=
• 100 percent non-nano zinc oxide
• Vegan and cruelty-free product
• No artificial colors
• Great for sensitive skin

Why We Like It: Easy to apply, tint provides coverage and smoothes complexion

What We Don't Like: Expensive for a small amount of sunscreen, only one tint

Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide | Water-Resistant: Yes, 80 minutes | Reef Friendly: Yes | Size: 1.65 ounces

Our tester Kirby wears Amvara Tinted SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen ($25) on her face every day. She rarely wears makeup and prefers this lotion to add some color and coverage to her face while protecting her skin from the sun. She's found that she can even apply this sunscreen when sweaty or wet, making it easy to throw on after washing her face in the morning or after the gym.

Protecting your skin and protecting the earth go hand in hand, and Amvara does both equally well. Their commitment to the environment includes post-consumer recycled packaging, a vegan and cruelty-free product, and reef-safe ingredients. Read Kirby's in-depth review on Amvara Tinted SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen.

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Best Scented Sunscreen:

Alba Botanica SPF 45 Sunscreen Lotion

Features:

• Refreshing green tea scent
• Easy to apply
• Contains aloe to soothe skin
• 100 percent vegetarian formula
• Never tested on animals
• Biodegradable formula

Why We Like It: Smells great, non-greasy, cruelty-free

What We Don't Like: Leaves a white cast initially

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octocrylene, octisalate | Water-Resistant: Yes, 80 minutes | Reef Friendly: Possibly | Size: 3 ounces

Due to its pleasing scent and ease of application, Alba Botanica SPF 45 Sunscreen Lotion ($11) is one of Kirby's favorite sunscreens. She likes that it applies easily and smells great. It also contains refreshing aloe vera, to soothe your skin, and is paraben-, phthalate-, and petroleum-free.

Alba Botanica never tests its products on animals and this sunscreen does not contain any animal byproducts. It does not contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, or gluten, making it technically reef-safe under Hawaii's laws, however, it does contain octocrylene.

See Alba Botanica Sunscreen Lotion SPF 45 on Amazon

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Best Spray Sunscreen:

Supergoop! PLAY SPF 50 Body Mist

Features:

• Spray sunscreen with non-aerosol application
• Acai and green tea extract to nourish skin
• Cruelty-free and reef-friendly
• Sweat- and water-resistant
• No white cast
• Bag-on-valve technology allows you to spray at any angle

Why We Like It: Non-aerosol spray for air travel, easy application

What We Don't Like: Barely enough for more than one full-body application

Active Ingredient: Avobenzone, Homosalate Octisalate, Octocrylene | Water-Resistant: Yes, 80 minutes | Reef Friendly: Possibly | Size: 3 ounces, 6 ounces available

Supergoop! Play SPF 50 Body Mist ($18) gained popularity through bright and clean social media marketing, and we decided to try the sunscreen for ourselves. The non-aerosol container spritzes a refreshing body mist sunscreen that is SPF 50. It also contains green tea extract, acai extract, and vitamin C to refresh and protect your skin. The brand uses environmentally friendly packaging and never includes oxybenzone or octinoxate, making it reef-friendly by some standards. It does contain octocrylene.

The sunscreen is very easy to apply, even in hard-to-reach areas of your body. Supergoop's bag-on-valve technology also allows you to spray the body mist at any angle. We tested the three-ounce version, and while we liked it, the container is a little small for full-body application. We recommend the six-ounce bottle if you're a heavy sunscreen user.

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Best Sunscreen Chapstick:

Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm 

Features:

• Added aloe and Vitamin E for moisturizing
• Vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free
• Broad spectrum protection
• Multiple tasty flavors are available

What We Like: Tastes incredible, multiple flavors

What We Don't Like: Thin texture feels like it needs frequent reapplication

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene | Water-Resistant: Yes | Reef Friendly: Possibly | Size: 0.15 ounces

Your lips are just as susceptible to sunscreen as the rest of your skin, and it's a good idea to wear chapstick with SPF anytime you'll be spending the day outside. Chelsey carries Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm ($4) on all of her expeditions and uses it as her daily chapstick, too. This sunscreen chapstick is almost tasty enough to eat and comes in a variety of flavors like banana, coconut, and watermelon. It goes on easily and doesn't feel greasy on your lips. Sun Bum added aloe and vitamin E to keep your lips soft, even after a long day in the sun and wind.

Sun Bum also has a Mineral SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm which we like, but it leaves a white cast and doesn't taste as good.

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About our testing process

The ExplorersWeb team tested the sunscreens on this list over the course of two years,  wearing them while working, adventuring, and going about our daily lives. We skied, hiked, climbed, gardened, and read in the sun. We sweated and swam and even got sunburned, all to find the best sunscreen on the market for your own outdoor adventures.

Ilana Newman started this guide in October 2022. When she's not on the computer writing, you can find her outside running, rock climbing, skiing, and hiking. She's also guided on a glacier in Alaska and worked for ski resorts, so she knows all too well the damage the sun can do when reflected off the snow. Sunscreen is a must for her, and she's tested almost all of the sunscreens on this list and put hours into researching what makes sunscreens protective, good for your skin, and safe for the environment.

Gear Editor Chelsey Cook took over this guide in May 2024. She lives in Alaska where the sun literally doesn't set in the summers, and has spent six years guiding high-altitude mountaineering in the Alaska Range and remote backpacking trips. When she's not in Alaska, she's usually traveling in other high-altitude areas of the world, including the Andes of Peru, where a thinner atmosphere makes UV rays much more intense.

After seeing several of her guiding friends get diagnosed with skin cancer and getting a scary, second-degree sunburn on her nose after summiting Denali one year, Chelsey takes her sunscreen seriously. Most days, you'll find her wearing a ballcap and sun shirt with the hood pulled up, even in the front country. She's tried most sunscreens on the market, and prioritizes sunscreens that spread easily, are long-lasting, protective, and gentle on her sensitive skin. She particularly likes face sticks, because they are easy to apply on the move and small enough to fit in her pants pocket. She tried five different ones in her quest to find the best one, testing them on glaciers and rivers.

Kirby Kahl also tested many of the sunscreens on this list. She spends much of her time outside and is heavily tattooed. UV rays break down tattoo ink, so she looks for sunscreens that offer the most protection.

After several years of testing sunscreens, we crafted this list of our top choices. We chose the sunscreens in this guide based on their SPF levels, their water- and sweat-resistance, and how safe they are for your skin and the environment. We also looked for sunscreen that was easy to apply and long-lasting.

All the sunscreens on this list offer broad-spectrum protection and are water resistant. They are also reef-friendly by Hawaii's laws. We looked for mineral- and chemical-based sunscreens, as well as different-sized containers and different applications, from creams to face sticks to sprays. After extensive testing, we incorporated the best sunscreens we found for adults of all skin tones, genders, and ages.

Things to consider when buying sunscreen

Choosing the best snowboard depends on many factors. Someone who primarily rides in the terrain park will not enjoy the same board as someone who mostly rides in the backcountry.

Your preferred riding style, where you ride, your height, weight, and ability level all influence which is the best snowboard for you. From beginners to intermediate to advanced riders, this list of the best snowboards covers it all. Whether you're looking for a versatile board that can do it all or something specific, we've got options.

The best snowboards

Best beginner snowboard: Arbor Foundation Snowboard

• Reverse Camber profile
• Directional twin shape
• Recycled and waste products used

Pros

• Great for learning
• Easy to initiate turns
• Good for a variety of conditions

Cons

• Reports of some durability issues

If you're getting started with snowboarding, this is a great option. It's lightweight and the rocker platform provides a forgiving and easy-to-control riding experience. The reverse camber profile makes it harder to catch an edge, which is great for beginners. It also helps with floating in deep snow and is better for riding switch (which can also help if you don't know which direction you ride yet!).

It is made from a 1:2 poplar-to-paulownia wood blend which provides good energy return while maintaining a lightweight and durable design. The recycled steel edges are detuned at the tip and tail contact points for a catch-free ride.

Plus, instead of petroleum, Arbor uses co-products or waste products to create their Bio-Resin, which reduces their carbon footprint by up to 40%. If supporting environmentally friendly companies is a priority, Arbor is a great company to support. They also offer a three-year warranty.

See Arbor Foundation Snowboard on REI

See Arbor Foundation Snowboard on Moosejaw

See Arbor Foundation Snowboard on Backcountry

See Arbor Foundation Snowboard on EVO

Best women's specific beginner snowboard: Burton Hideaway Snowboard

• Directional Twin shape
• Flat profile
• Women's specific snowboard
• Dual wood core
• Fiberglass flex

Pros

• Good for learning off-piste terrain
• Stable
• Good edge hold

Cons

• Chatter at high speeds

This women's specific snowboard is a playful entry-level option. This model features a tapered shape that helps initiate turns, provides stability at high speeds, and floats in soft snow. All things that are helpful for beginner and intermediate riders.

The directional twin shape has a slightly longer nose than tail, which provides float in powder and allows for more control in variable terrain, yet still works if you want to ride switch. The sintered base keeps the board fast without needing to be waxed too regularly. These features make this a great board for someone wanting to get better on off-piste terrain and powder.

The flat profile makes stability and balance easier, while also providing edge control. The Burton Super Fly 800G core is a dual-species wood core that uses both hard and soft woods to keep weight down without sacrificing performance. And the Dualzone EGD (Engineered Grain Direction) puts wood along the toe and heel edges, perpendicular to the core, to help with edge hold. The Biax fiberglass provides a soft flex with a forgiving feel. Burton also offers a three-year warranty.

See Burton Hideaway Snowboard on REI

See Burton Hideaway Snowboard on EVO

Best all-mountain snowboard: Jones Mountain Twin Snowboard

• Rocker/camber profile
• Made with recycled materials
• Directional twin shape
• Sintered 8000 base

Pros

• Great all-around board
• Stable
• Good option for a one-board quiver

Cons

• Less user-friendly pop
• Average performance in deeper snow

The Jones Mountain Twin is a great all-mountain snowboard for intermediate and advanced riders. It's great for anyone who loves to jump, spin, and turn. The camber profile adds snap and edge hold while carving, and the rocker in the tips helps initiate turns, with skidded turns, and with controlling speed. The medium stiff flex adds security at speed.

The Jones Mountain Twin is a very versatile snowboard, which makes it fun for a variety of skill levels. It's got lots of pop for jumps and playful riding, although it is challenging to pop unexpectedly, similar to other camber boards.

See Jones Mountain Twin Snowboard on REI

See Jones Mountain Twin Snowboard on EVO

See Jones Mountain Twin Snowboard on Backcountry

See Jones Mountain Twin Snowboard on Moosejaw

Best snowboard for kids: SportsStuff Snow Ryder Hardwood Snowboard

• Hardwood design
• Laminated base
• Hook and loop bindings

Pros

• Try out snowboarding without committing to a real board
• Durable
• Use with any boots

Cons

• Can't be used at a resort
• No edges

Want to get your kids into the sport from a young age? Get them this SportsStuff Snow Ryder. Take them out in the backyard, strap in, and learn to balance while going downhill. This wooden snowboard comes in various sizes to fit children from 35-150lbs. However, this is not a snowboard that can be ridden at the resort because it does not have edges.

The raised nose and tail allow your mini-shredder to learn which foot they prefer forward. The hardwood construction means that this board can go through multiple siblings without falling apart. And the hook and loop bindings can be attached to regular footwear, not snowboard boots. The smooth, laminated bottom provides slip so they can get comfortable going downhill before investing in a real snowboard.

See SportsStuff Snow Ryder Hardwood Snowboard on Amazon

Best all-mountain freeride snowboard: K2 Passport Snowboard

• Rocker/camber/rocker
• Stiff flex
• Designed for all-mountain and freeride
• Wood core

Pros

• Great in all conditions
• Poppy and good for jumps
• Can go fast

Cons

• Doesn't excel at one thing

If you're looking for an intermediate to expert-level snowboard that can do pretty much everything well, the K2 Passport is a great option. It rides just about every condition well, from hardpack carving to the deep stuff. The A1 core is made up of multiple wood types, making this all-mountain snowboard light, poppy, and durable. The Rocker/camber/rocker profile combines the float and stability of rocker with the pop and precision of camber.

This board has a bit more flex than your standard all-mountain snowboard, with a bit more play in the nose and tail due to the rocker. The Passport has great edge-to-edge quickness, so it excels at carving. The camber helps with jumps and adds plenty of pop. Plus the sintered 4000 base helps absorb wax to give plenty of slip and durability.

See K2 Passport Snowboard on EVO

Best freestyle snowboard: Lib Tech Skate Banana Mens Snowboard

• Medium flex
• Freestyle snowboard
• True twin shape
• Magne Traction Edges

Pros

• Turns the mountain into a terrain park
• Good intermediate option

Cons

• Not super fast

The Lib Tech Skate Banana is a super playful freestyle board, great for beginners to advanced riders who love to make the whole mountain into a terrain park. With a soft to medium flex, this isn't the board to charge down the groomers with, but it's perfect for freestyle riders across the resort. It's perfect for jibbing and buttering, but the continuous rocker profile makes it less stable for landing jumps. Plus, it doesn't have much camber, except a bit at the nose and tail, so that leaves it lacking in pop. Magne Traction provides tons of edge grip making this a great option for icy days too.

The true twin shape makes the Skate Banana great to ride switch stance, so if you like to be able to land tricks in either direction, it's a great freestyle board. The rocker profile makes it float well in fresh snow, but it's not the best at carving or going fast down groomers. There are better all-mountain snowboard options out there, but if you're looking for a park or an all-mountain freestyle board that does well all around, The Skate Banana is a great option.

See Lib Tech Skate Banana Mens Snowboard on Amazon

See Lib Tech Skate Banana Mens Snowboard on EVO

See Lib Tech Skate Banana Mens Snowboard on REI

Best splitboard: Jones Snowboards Men’s Solution Splitboard

• Lightweight
• Camber/rocker profile
• Tapered shape
• Stiffer flex

Pros

• Versatile
• Designed for big mountain lines
• Great freeride snowboard
• Fun in all terrains

Cons

• Expensive

If you're ready to get out of the resort and explore the backcountry, you'll want a splitboard, unless you want to strap your snowboard to your backpack and boot up the slopes (trust me, it sucks). The Jones Solution is a stable, lightweight splitboard. It does just as well in deep powder in the trees as it does in a tight couloir.

This splitboard has a general directional shape with a rocker profile. It's not specifically a powder board, but it has more float than expected for the directional shape. It excels in firm snow and the Traction Tech edges provide great edge hold. The smooth, blunt tips reduce drag and catch potential, especially on breakable crust. In the backcountry, you never know what sort of conditions you'll run into, which makes this board a great option.

See Jones Snowboards Men’s Solution Splitboard on REI

Best women's all-mountain snowboard: Arbor Veda Camber Snowboard

• Advanced/expert board
• Traditional camber profile
• Medium flex
• Wood core

Pros

• Great in all conditions
• Stable at speed

Cons

• Not great in the park

If you're looking for a great all-around snowboard for someone who prefers a women's specific snowboard, the Arbor Veda is a good choice. This model features a camber profile with powder fenders on the front and back, which helps the board float in deep snow and adds some playfulness. It's pretty stable at speed and turns from one edge to the other quickly. This all-mountain snowboard has a decent edge grip for hard conditions but isn't the best option for pure ice.

Since the Veda is a directional tapered board, it's not great for riding switch, it really feels like you're riding backward. It's definitely not a park board, but it can hold its own when hitting natural features and would be pretty stable on jumps. This board thrives off-piste and in many different conditions, so it's a great option for a playful everyday freeride board.

See Arbor Veda Camber Snowboard on Backcountry

Why trust us

At ExWeb, we've got mountains on the brain. This writer started snowboarding at 13 and has been obsessed with sliding down snow ever since. She's an expert in what makes a good snowboard and why different features matter for different types of riding.

Who this is for

This is for anyone looking for a new board this season, whether you're brand new to the snowboard world or you've been shredding for years. We've got a variety of options for every skill level and riding style.

How we picked

We picked the best snowboards by researching, reading, and watching reviews. We've considered the many factors that go into choosing the best snowboard. If you're looking for a great all-mountain snowboard, you'll find it. If you're looking for the perfect snowboard for the rider who is taking their first snowboarding lessons, you'll find it. If you're trying to get into the backcountry, we've got a great splitboard option.

Features to look for in snowboards

Size

Sizing your board correctly is important. Having too much board can make it hard to learn, or hard to ride the way you want to. If you're an experienced snowboarder, you definitely don't want a too-small board, as that can be less stable, and wobbly at high speed. Snowboard sizing is based on height, weight, and experience. If you're just getting started, go for something on the lower end of the spectrum.

Shape

The shape of your board depends on what you love most. All-mountain snowboards are the most versatile and often have a directional or directional twin shape. True twin-shaped boards are great for tricks and park riding, while tapered directional boards are best for powder. There are a lot of nuances to shape, and there's a lot of variety out there depending on what you're looking for.

Binding

Once you pick a board, you'll need to pick bindings. We could do an entire guide to the best snowboard bindings since they are often bought separately from the boards. However, you can also get your setup as a package, in which case you'll want to consider bindings before purchasing.

Camber

Camber describes snowboards that arch off of the ground in the middle of the board when not weighted. Camber gives boards a poppiness that is helpful for jumps and tricks. It also adds edge control while carving, and on firm surfaces. It also helps with stability at high speeds.

Rocker

Rocker describes a board that is flat in the middle and curves upwards at the tip and tail. Rocker helps with flotation in deep powder and makes turns easier to initiate. Many snowboards include both camber and rocker in different parts of the board.

Width

Another feature that’s relative to your size and weight. Ideally, the width of your board will have about 0.5 inches of overhang from your boot on either side. If this doesn’t feel right or impairs your ability to continue riding, don’t worry, they make ultrawide boards for that.

Flex

Flex is super important because it impacts stability and ease of turning. There are a few factors when considering how stiff you want your board to be. The first is ability. If you're a beginner, you'll want a pretty soft flex. Softer boards are easier to turn and control when you're learning.

If you're anything other than a beginner, your style of riding will dictate your flex rating. For park and freestyle snowboarding, a softer flex is better. But if you're a freerider who loves to fly down steep terrain and explore the backcountry, a stiff board is better. For an all-mountain boarder, a medium flex is going to be the most versatile.

Material

Snowboards have come a long way in their basic designs and the material used has grown more sophisticated. Snowboards can be made from carbon fiber to wood. Wood cores are the most common, but the core can also be made out of foam or aluminum. The edges are made out of metal, and the bases are made out of P-Tex, a type of plastic. Consider weight and durability when choosing the materials.

Types of snowboards

All-terrain boards

All-mountain snowboards are just that: for the entire mountain. These snowboards perform well in a variety of conditions from groomed runs to choppy off-piste, to the park or pipe. They're not going to excel at any one thing, so there's always going to be a better tool for each type of riding, but an all-mountain snowboard is perfect if you want a one-board quiver or like a little bit of everything.

Powder boards

Powder boards are designed for riding deep snow. They usually have a wide nose and a narrower tail. Extra flex in the tail helps the board sink below the snow, which helps the nose float above. They often use rocker for extra float. Powder boards are great if you live somewhere where it gets deep often, but they aren't amazing at much besides floating in the deep stuff, so they're not ideal if you just want to own one snowboard.

Split boards

Splitboards are used for backcountry boarding. The board and bindings are designed to be split down the middle, providing the ability to skin uphill before strapping it all back together for the downhill. Splitboards come in many of the other types of board styles, although they are often stiffer than a board that you'd use for freestyle snowboarding.

Freestyle boards

Freestyle snowboards typically have a very soft flex and twin tips. If you love to ride in the park or find yourself doing tricks off of every natural feature you see, a freestyle snowboard might be a good option. However, they're not good for going fast or riding firm snow.

Freeride boards

Freeride snowboards are designed to be off-piste, whether you're riding the side-country or ungroomed trails. They go fast and carve hard, and are great for big mountain terrain. These boards are typically directional in shape and have a stiffer flex for speed.

Snowboards FAQ

Q: What kind of snowboard is best for beginners?

If you're just getting started snowboarding, choose a snowboard with a soft flex. This makes it easier to turn and control. Also, choose a snowboard on the shorter side for your height and weight, because that will also make it easier to turn. However, a shorter snowboard is less stable, so once you begin to progress, you may want a slightly longer board.

Q: What brand of snowboard is the best?

There is not really any one snowboard brand that is better than the others. Some brands specialize in different things, while others make a wide variety of different boards. A few well-known, popular snowboard brands include Burton, LibTech, K2, Salomon, Rossignol, Arbor, Capita, Jones, and GNU.

Q: What is the most versatile type of snowboard?

All-mountain boards are typically the most versatile as they are made to function well from powder to groomers to bumps to jumps.

If you're just getting started in mountaineering, there's a lot to learn and buy. The best mountaineering boots, crampons, and other alpine climbing tools can last a lifetime.

From ice climbing to glacier travel to hiking in the snow, mountaineering boots are necessary for many outdoor adventures. A step up from your average hiking boot, mountaineering boots are sturdier, waterproof, and often very stiff. But unlike other boots, they're designed to protect your feet from snow and ice and provide a stable surface to attach crampons.

Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a young gun, this list of the best mountaineering boots will help you.

The best mountaineering boots

Best summer mountaineering boots: Scarpa Charmoz HD Mountaineering Boots

• HDry technology
• Synthetic leather
• Semi-automatic crampon compatible
• Full rubber rand

Pros:

• Comfortable
• Water-resistant
• Quick break-in
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Not super warm — don't wear them in extreme cold

I've worn an older version of these boots for years, in all conditions. The Charmoz is a great lightweight, comfortable option for summer mountaineering boots. The 3/4 shank makes hiking comfortable, while the HDry technology keeps your feet dry while allowing them to breathe. The synthetic leather and fabric upper breathes well and dries quickly.

For alpine-climbing performance, the full rubber rand provides security on rock. These boots also have a heel welt which makes them compatible with semi-automatic crampons for climbing snowy, icy, and technical terrain. The multi-density PU + EVA midsole balances weight and performance. While not the ideal boot for steep ice climbing, I have worn them for top rope ice climbing before and they do the trick as long as you're not planning to lead anything.

Overall, this is a great mountaineering boot for three-season mountaineering and hiking.

See Scarpa Charmoz HD Mountaineering Boots on Amazon

Best mountaineering boot for ice climbs: La Sportiva Men's Nepal Cube GTX Boot

• Carbon tech honeycomb insole
• Insulated Comfort GORE-TEX lining
• Adjustable, removable tongue
• 3D flex ankle

Pros:

• Great climbing performance
• Warm
• Tall enough to keep snow out

Cons:

• Stiff full shank isn't as comfortable to hike in

One of the most popular mountaineering boots for ice and mixed climbing, the La Sportiva Nepal Cube GTX mountain boots are a great option for four-season technical climbing and mountaineering. The Carbon Tech honeycomb insole is highly insulating to keep cold feet at bay. Plus, it's stiff, lightweight, and low profile, so you feel secure in each foot placement without heavy boots dragging you down. The insulated Comfort GORE-TEX lining adds extra warmth while wicking any interior moisture. Toe and heel welts make these compatible with any crampon type.

I've worn a version of the La Sportiva Nepal for ice climbing and find their technical climbing performance to exceed other boots I've tried. They have a rigid sole that, coupled with a pair of step-in crampons, feels secure with every kick into the ice climb. While not as warm as double boots, these keep my feet warm in most conditions.

See La Sportiva Men's Nepal Cube GTX Boot on La Sportiva

Best leather full-shank mountaineering boot: La Sportiva Men's Makalu Mountaineering Boot

• Idro-Perwanger Roughout leather
• Full-shank boots
• EZ Rollerball and D-ring lacing
• Protective Vibram rand
• Aggressively lugged outsole

Pros:

• Super durable
• Traditional leather style boot
• Can use for trade work as well as mountaineering

Cons:

• Take time to break in
• Narrow fit like many of La Sportiva's boots

La Sportiva's Makalu mountaineering boot is a classic leather boot with all the upgraded technology that modern boots need.

The MPEvo rubber aggressively lugged outsole grips loose or rocky terrain. The upper is made out of 3mm Idro-Perwanger Roughout leather, a premium silicone-impregnated leather made from the corium, the strongest part of the leather. The leather is tanned to be incredibly water-repellent while remaining breathable. A Vibram rubber rand adds protection for the toe box and the EZ rollerball lacing system makes it easy to lace these up. These full-shank boots have automatic crampon compatibility but can also be used with a hybrid or strap-on crampon.

See La Sportiva Men's Makalu Mountaineering Boot on Amazon

See La Sportiva Men's Makalu Mountaineering Boot on Backcountry

See La Sportiva Men's Makalu Mountaineering Boot on Moosejaw

Best leather 3/4 shank mountaineering boot: La Sportiva Karakorum Mountaineering Shoe

• Idro-Perwanger Roughout Leather
• New-matic crampon compatibility
• SBR Aircushion provides comfort and insulation in any weather
• Aggressive Vibram rubber sole

Pros:

• Great boot for any conditions
• Waterproof and breathable

Cons:

• Take a while to break in
• Insoles not very comfortable
• Narrow fit

If you're looking for a heavy-duty hiking boot that can stand up to some mountaineering, the La Sportiva Karakorum is a great option. These boots are similar to the Makalu but have a 3/4 shank instead of a full shank, making them more comfortable for hiking. However, they are not compatible with fully automatic crampons.

They feature 2.8mm durable Idro-Perwagner silicone-impregnated leather uppers that are weather resistant. The multi-directional 3D flex hinge adds flexibility and promotes a faster break-in period while still providing stability.

The SBR Aircushion sole helps to cushion your feet and keep them warm in chilly climates and cool in hot conditions. Plus, the aggressively lugged Vibram rubber sole includes heel welts, giving them semi-automatic crampon compatibility. These boots are a solid, durable option for backpacking and mountaineering. They have a classic style without the weight of old-school leather boots.

See La Sportiva Karakorum Mountaineering Shoe on Amazon

Best lightweight mountaineering boots: Salewa Men's Crow GTX Mountaineering Boots

• Abrasion-resistant fabric upper
• Breathable Gore-Tex liner
• Vibram Mulaz Sole
• Semi Automatic crampon compatible
• Full rubber rand

Pros:

• Waterproof
• Comfortable
• Great heavy-duty hiking and summer mountaineering boots

Cons:

• Not great for winter mountaineering or technical ice climbing
• Narrow fit in the toe

These boots feature an abrasion-resistant fabric upper and a GORE-TEX lining for breathable waterproofing. The Vibram New Mulaz Sole provides plenty of grip on technical rock as well as mixed mountain terrain and snow. Plus, they're compatible with semi-automatic crampons for glacier travel or light ice climbing.

SALEWA offers a 100% blister-free guarantee and they use a 3F System for heel and ankle support to get there, while the Flex Collar allows for comfort during descents. The climbing lacing systems keep your foot in place on steep terrain and provide ankle support. Plus, the Gore-Tex performance comfort lining wicks moisture while providing a waterproof barrier when the weather turns.

See Salewa Men's Crow GTX Mountaineering Boots on Amazon

See Salewa Men's Crow GTX Mountaineering Boots on Moosejaw

Best waterproof mountaineering boot: Salewa Men's Rapace GTX Mountaineering Boot

• Breathable Gore-Tex liner
• Lightweight Vibram sole
• Dual-density Bi-light Technology midsole
• Durable 360° full rubber rand
• Stiff crampon-compatible midsole

Pros:

• Quick break-in
• Waterproof
• Great grip

Cons:

• Included insoles are not great

If you're a big summer mountaineer, these Salewa Men’s Rapace GTX Mountaineering Boots are a solid option. These feature a lightweight Vibram rubber sole and dual-density Bi-light technology midsole. The GORE-TEX performance comfort lining wicks moisture.

The 360 rubber rand protects from rocks and scree while hiking, while the stiff insole is compatible with semi-automatic crampons for when you hit summer snow or glacier ice. The climbing lacing system dials in the fit and the flex collar improves ankle mobility. The fabric and nubuck leather upper is wear-resistant and designed to last for years.

See Salewa Men's Rapace GTX Mountaineering Boot on Amazon

Best mountaineering boot for wide feet: Lowa Alpine Expert GTX Mountaineering Boots

• Gore-Tex Lining
• 400g PrimaLoft insulation
• FitWing and FlexFit technology
• Compatible with all crampon styles

Pros:

• Great lacing system
• Warmer than other similar style boots
• Waterproof

Cons:

• Not the lightest weight mountaineering boots
• DWR treatment wears off

Many mountaineering boot brands have a narrow fit. The Lowa Alpine Expert GTX is a solid choice for people with wider feet. These are good all-around boots for climbing ice, glacier travel, and more. The leather and microfiber upper adds durability, while a Gore-Tex lining and PrimaLoft insulation adds warmth and keeps your feet dry. These boots include toe and heel welts for automatic crampons.

The climbing zone at the front of the boot for scrambling and hiking keeps your footing secure. The Fit Wing technology combined with FlexFit allows for a better fit and more ankle mobility. The two-zone lacing system allows you to dial in your custom fit. The lower eyelets also include ball bearings, making it easy to pull the laces tight. And a lace lock at the top takes the tension off while you tie your boots.

All in all, these are classic mountaineering boots. While not the lightest boot, they're a great option if they fit you well.

See Lowa Alpine Expert GTX Mountaineering Boots on Backcountry

Best mountaineering boot for mixed climbing: Scarpa Men's Phantom Tech Hd Mountain Boots

• Carbon fiber insole
• Vibram Precision Tech Roll sole
• Spiral zipper
• Integrated gaiter

Pros:

• Warm
• Super lightweight
• Great for climbing

Cons:

• Laces are not the most durable
• No lace lock

The Scarpa Phantom Tech is a modern, sleek boot for technical performance and climbing. It is Scarpa's lightest and most sensitive boot. These are perfect for steep ice, mixed climbing, and rock climbing without crampons. The rigid sole provides support when wearing crampons and a bit of rocker makes these mountaineering boots comfortable to hike in. The flexible ankle of the low-cut inner boot allows for technical movement during alpine climbs.

These are designed with a soft, Primaloft insulated inner boot with a carbon fiber insole. The lightweight Vibram Precision Tech Roll sole provides durable traction and is compatible with automatic and semi-automatic crampons with a toe welt. Over the boot, an integrated gaiter adds waterproof protection and keeps snow out. The spiraling waterproof zipper is positioned to reduce stress points when the boot flexes.

See Scarpa Men's Phantom Tech Hd Mountain Boots on Amazon

Best mountaineering boot for hiking: La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX Mountaineering Boot

• Gore-Tex Performance Comfort
• Vibram La Sportiva Cube rubber outsoles
• Gusset Free tounge
• To the toe lacing

Pros:

• Comfortable to hike in
• Good for climbing

Cons:

• Not super durable

The La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX is a great mountaineering boot for heavy backpacking, summer mountaineering, and more. They're worn and loved by guides, SAR teams, and hikers. They're comfortable enough to go the distance but also include climbing-specific features like low-profile outsoles and midsoles to allow for edging capabilities. The lacing goes all the way to the toe for a precise fit and adjustability.

These mountaineering boots have a gusset-free tongue and 3D flex system for comfort and support on technical terrain. And the Vibram La Sportiva Cube rubber outsoles have an Impact Brake System for security on both wet and dry terrain. The Gore-Tex Performance Comfort lining provides breathable waterproofing. These hybrid hiking/mountaineering boots are compatible with semi-automatic and strap-on crampons.

See La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX Mountaineering Boot on Amazon

Why trust us

This writer has hiked countless miles in crampons and mountaineering boots while guiding in Alaska, in the Cascades, and the San Juan mountains. She's climbed numerous pitches of water ice and glacier ice and also plenty of rock while wearing mountaineering boots. She can speak personally to the durability, waterproofing, comfort, and features of several of the boots on this list and has researched the rest extensively.

Who this is for

Whether you're new to mountaineering and looking for your first pair of mountaineering boots, or you've finally worn out your last pair and are looking for a replacement, this guide is for all-mountain adventurers. We've included a variety of boots on this list, so whether you're looking for something designed for hiking or for climbing ice, there's something for everyone.

How we picked

We chose the mountaineering boots on this list by testing, researching, and heading out to the mountains. We've read countless reviews, talked to friends, and tested boots.

How we tested

We tested the best mountain climbing boots by trekking hundreds of miles across glaciers in Alaska, front-pointing up ice climbs in the San Juan mountains, and climbing peaks in the Cascades.

Features to look for in mountaineering boots

If you want to find the best mountaineering boots for your needs, there are a few things to consider.

Weather resistance

If you'll be wearing them in the winter, weather resistance is vital. But even for summer mountaineering, it's important to have weather protection like Gore-Tex or other waterproof membranes.

If you are wearing them in the winter or in deep snow, having a gaiter or other feature to keep snow out of the boots can be helpful.

Warmth

How warm you'll want your boots also depends on when you'll be wearing them most. If you want them for hiking and summer mountaineering, you'll want to look for boots that wick sweat well and aren't too warm. But if you'll be wearing them in the winter, look for Thinsulate or other lightweight insulation.

If you need the warmest boots, double boots are going to be the best option. Double boots are usually worn for high-altitude mountaineering, like climbing Everest. The name "Double Boot" comes from having both an interior and exterior boot for warmth. But if you'll mountaineering anywhere in the U.S. (other than Alaska) a double boot is probably not necessary.

Lacing

Having features that keep tension on your laces while you tie them, or a lacing design that allows for easy adjustment can be really useful. Your boots must stay tied when you're mid-climb. So these lacing features, while seemingly less important than other boot features, can make a difference in boot comfort and security.

Material

The material your boots are made of matters for comfort, durability, and use. If you'll be using your boots for climbing and scrambling, having a sticky sole is important. The material will also impact how durable the boots are and how long they'll last for.

Weight

Weight matters a lot if you'll be carrying your boots or if you value fast and light mountaineering. Also, they say that a pound on your feet is worth five pounds on your back, which can slow you down.

Stiffness

The stiffness of your boots matters most if you'll be wearing crampons most of the time, like for climbing ice. If that's the case, you'll want very stiff boots. Think of the stiffest boots like ski boots, completely unable to flex in the arch even if you wanted them to. And the least stiff boots are more like running shoes that flex with every step. For comfort while walking, a less stiff boot is better. But for stability with crampons, more stiffness is better. When choosing your boot, you'll want to find the right middle ground for your needs.

Crampon compatibility

All of the boots on this list are compatible with semi-automatic crampons. But if you'll be climbing ice, you'll want boots that are compatible with automatic crampons as they are more secure and usually have vertical front points. However, boots that are compatible with automatic crampons are often less comfortable than other boots, so there's a trade-off.

Mountaineering boots FAQ

Q: Can I ski with mountaineering boots?

No, if you'll be skiing, you'll want ski boots. Mountaineering boots will not attach to ski bindings.

Q: Do you need to break in mountaineering boots?

Yes, most mountaineering boots will have a break-in period before they are comfortable. The length and severity of the break-in period will depend on your feet and the boots. Some boots advertise to have no break-in period, but this depends on your feet, how you use them, and other factors.

Q: Why are some mountaineering boots plastic?

Most boots you buy on the market today are not plastic, but if you rent mountaineering boots, you'll often get plastic boots. This is because plastic boots are more durable, warm, and have a soft and comfortable inner boot. But if you're buying mountaineering boots, there are not many plastic options.

Q: How long should mountaineering boots last?

This depends on how much you use them. The average lifespan for most boots is around 600-1,000 miles. Depending on how much you use them, this could take a couple of years or an entire lifetime. Many mountaineering boots will last for years and years because they're not getting as much use as hiking boots or running shoes. This also makes mountaineering boots a good thing to find used if you're looking for a more affordable way to get into mountain sports.

Q: Do mountaineering boots have shanks?

Yes, mountaineering boots have shanks. Some mountaineering boots only have half or 3/4 shanks, which makes them less stiff and more comfortable to hike in. But for climbing ice or wearing automatic crampons, a full shank is necessary.

From ice climbing to mountaineering, crampons are necessary for most mountain adventurers. Unless you steer clear of snow and ice altogether, chances are you've found yourself wearing, or wishing you were wearing, a pair of crampons.

There are several different types of crampons and crampon attachment styles, all useful for different activities and boots. Which you choose depends on what you need them for and the types of footwear you use most. Fully automatic crampons won't fit on hiking boots, whereas strap-on crampons won't provide the secure fit necessary for ice climbing.

It's also important to consider whether you need vertical front points (better for ice) or horizontal front points (better for snow). Or maybe you need microspikes. Then you have to consider the material your crampons are made out of. We'll get into this and more in this guide to the best crampons.

The best crampons

Best crampons for any boots: Black Diamond Contact Crampons

• Stainless steel construction
• Flexible toe and heel strap fits most footwear
• Durable nylon straps
• Anti-balling plates

Pros

• Compatible with any footwear
• Horizontal front points help in deep snow and steep terrain

Cons

• Not great for technical ice climbing
• Not as secure as automatic crampons

I wore these stainless steel crampons while guiding on a glacier in Alaska for the summer. They can take a beating. If you're looking for an all-around pair of mountaineering crampons for glacier travel and snow and prefer strap-on bindings, these are a great option. They are more affordable than some of the more technical crampons. The full strap attachment system works with regular hiking boots, mountaineering boots, or even trail running shoes.

These are not the best crampons for ice climbing because of horizontal front points (although I have top-roped steep glacier ice and water ice in them), but they are great for low-angle ice and packed snow.

See Black Diamond Contact Crampons on Amazon

See Black Diamond Contact Crampons on REI

See Black Diamond Contact Crampons on Black Diamond

Best aluminum crampons: Camp XLC 490 Universal Crampons

• 7075-series aluminum alloy
• 585g per pair
• Strap on bindings
• Anti-balling plates

Pros

• Lightweight
• Compatible with any boots or trail runners
• Great hiking and mountaineering crampons

Cons

• Not as durable as stainless steel
• Not ideal for ice climbing

For some alpine climbing, snowy trails, and mixed terrain, it's often not clear how much you will need your crampons. You need to bring them because you expect some amount of packed snow or ice. But if you don't expect to wear them the whole time, weight and packability matter. In situations like these, aluminum crampons are a great option. Aluminum crampons don't have the same durability as steel crampons, but they work well if you'll be mostly traveling on snow and don't expect to walk on any rocks. I use these crampons as a "just in case" pair because they're light enough to bring anywhere. They're great for glacier travel and lightweight mountaineering.

These feature a universal binding that fits most boots, with or without toe and heel welts. Dynamic anti-balling plates keep snow from accumulating under your feet. Plus, it's easy to adjust the length for a secure fit.

See Camp XLC 490 Universal Crampons on Amazon

See Camp XLC 490 Universal Crampons on REI

Most versatile crampons: Petzl Lynx Leverlock Modular Crampons

• Modular
• Step in/Hybrid attachment
• Tempered steel crampons

Pros

• Adjustable for different boots
• Front points are adjustable
• Great all-around crampons

Cons

• Expensive

These highly versatile crampons from Petzl excel for ice climbing but they also work well for steep snow, mixed climbing, and more. The modular design allows the user to adapt them to their needs. For example, the interchangeable front binding adapts to boots with or without toe welts. And you can configure the front points in a short, long, or asymmetric position or create mono-points.

The Leverlock heel bail is designed for boots with a heel groove and the bails' height can be moved up or down to fit your footwear. These crampons include low-profile anti-balling plates to decrease snow buildup under your feet without reaching the front points. They have linking bars that fit sizes 35-45 (US 5-11) and a carrying case. We love these crampons because you can use them with various boots (as long as they have heel welts) and you can configure the front points for any climbing style. They're ideal technical climbing crampons for anyone, at any point, in their climbing career.

See Petzl Lynx Leverlock Modular Crampons on REI

Best monopoint crampons: Petzl Dart Crampons

• Mono point adjustable front points
• Stainless steel crampons
• Nylon webbing straps

Pros

• Great for steep ice climbing
• Lightweight

Cons

• Not ideal for deep or wet snow
• Not compatible with hiking boots

If you do a lot of technical ice climbing, mixed climbing, and dry tooling, a mono-point crampon is your best friend. The singular front point allows for more precise foot placement, which can sometimes be the determining factor between sending the route and sending the whole pillar of ice crashing down with you attached. Petzl's Dart crampons are one of the best options for mono-point-specific crampons, although several of the models on our list allow you to configure the front points with mono or dual points, similar to the Dart. These crampons also allow you to add a second front point with long and short options.

Lateral secondary points stabilize cauliflower ice, snow, hoarfrost, and other softer surfaces. Plus, all the front and secondary points are toothed for better penetration and stability in ice. The anti-balling plates limit snow buildup and replacement parts can be bought to extend the lifespan of the crampons. These crampons attach with an automatic binding that only works with boots with both a toe and heel groove. At 820g per pair, these are fairly lightweight for technical crampons.

See Petzl Dart Crampons on REI

See Petzl Dart Crampons on Amazon

Best ice climbing crampons: Grivel G22 Plus Cramp-O-Matic EVO Crampons

• Hot-forged Chromoly steel
• Antibott anti-balling plates
• Step-in crampons

Pros

• Great all-around crampon
• Hot-forged chromoly steel grants plasticity for stability in ice
• Durable

Cons

• Expensive

Grivel is a well-known name in ice-climbing gear. The G22 is the newest and most technical of Grivel's crampon offerings. Made out of hot forged Chromoly steel, these crampons are durable and easy to sharpen once they lose their edge. Plus, these crampons are newly updated for the 2022-23 winter season, with a new heel adjustment system that allows them to fit most boots. The length adjustment has been upgraded to easily change sizes while wearing bulky winter gloves and the adjustment levers terminate in sharp points to provide extra stability on icy trails.

The serrated front points provide plenty of stability while climbing technical ice and are removable and adjustable so that you don't have to get rid of your crampons when the front points wear out. An ankle strap helps keep the crampons attached without too many straps that can get in the way. Plus, for winter mountaineering or wallowing through snow on the approach, these crampons include Grivel's patented proactive antibott technology that uses your weight to push away accumulating snow.

See Grivel G22 Plus Cramp-O-Matic EVO Crampons on REI

See Grivel G22 Plus Cramp-O-Matic EVO Crampons on Amazon

Best ski mountaineering crampons: Petzl Irvis Hybrid Crampons

• Hybrid steel and aluminum crampons
• Can be used with boots with or without toe welts
• Modular construction
• 570g per pair

Pros

• Great ski mountaineering and touring crampons
• Lightweight
• Low bulk storage and transport

Cons

• Aluminum heel piece is less durable
• Not ideal for ice climbing

For ski mountaineering, you need something that you throw on for the uphill but won't weigh you down on the downhill. These ski mountaineering crampons combine the Petzl Leopard and the Petzl Irvis crampons. The front part is made of stainless steel to provide durability and stability on ice or rock, while the aluminum heel piece optimizes weight. Plus, the Cord-tec flexible linking system allows for easy storage and portability and keeps these crampons lightweight.

The anti-balling plates help keep snow from building up under the crampons, while the wide, flat front points provide stability and traction in snow and ice. These crampons can attach with a step-in or hybrid binding, depending on whether or not your boots have a toe welt. Plus, the Alpen Adapt system makes these crampons modular, so you can switch out various parts of the crampons when they wear out or for different purposes.

See Petzl Irvis Hybrid Crampons on Amazon

Best winter traction devices: Yaktrax Pro Traction Crampons

• Traction cleats
• 1.2MM steel coils
• Heavy-duty rubber construction
• Durable rubber foot frame
• Available in sizes small to XL

Pros

• Easy to slip on
• Great traction on flat ground
• Affordable

Cons

• Sizing isn’t always accurate
• Can break if worn on the wrong surface

These are not crampons for ice climbing or mountaineering. Instead, they’re designed for added traction when walking on level ice or snow. The traction comes from the small metal coils made from 1.2MM high-strength steel. The idea behind this traction system is to give as natural a feel as possible. Crampons might feel like overkill when you're out walking the dog on hard-packed snow or hard ice roads, but Yaxtrax are necessary.

Another huge advantage is that they’re easy to slip on. There are no complicated bindings, just a simple strap over the top of the boot.

See Yaktrax Pro Traction Crampons on Amazon

See Yaktrax Pro Traction Crampons on REI

Best microspikes: Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System Crampons

• Hardened stainless-steel spikes
• Welded chain
• Elastomer shoe harness
• Available in sizes small to XL
• Available in red and black

Pros

• Great traction on ice
• Easy to slip on
• Durable

Cons

• Can break if you get the wrong size
• Not comfortable on concrete

Kahtoola MICROspikes are a great, durable option for hiking and walking in most winter conditions. They have a fantastic reputation for adding grip and stability in snow and ice but are also durable on rocks or pavement. The spikes are made from hardened stainless steel, so they won’t snap if you step on a hard surface. And the chain that holds it all together is welded for maximum strength.

They are designed for ice walking and hikers favor them because they perform well on multiple surfaces and are easy to slip on and off. All you have to do is step into the MICROspikes, and the rubber harness adjusts to your foot. That is, if you buy the right size. If you buy the wrong size, they can break pretty easily.

See Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System Crampons on Amazon

See Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System Crampons on REI

Best traction device for winter running: Yaktrax Run Traction Cleats

• 1.4MM steel coil
• 3MM carbide steel spikes
• High-strength natural rubber
• Available in sizes small to XL

Pros

• Best for running on snow or ice
• Lightweight and low-profile
• Easy to slip on

Cons

• Not as grippy as other options on this list

The Yaktrax Run Traction Cleats are designed for runners that want to train in the winter. They are similar to the Yaktrax Pro Traction Cleats but have a few key differences. First of all, the design is low-profile, and the cleats are lighter to make them easier to run in. And, if you look at the bottom of the cleat, you’ll notice that the 1.4MM steel coil is only on half of the cleat.

The front section of the cleat has a rubber area with 3MM carbide steel spikes that provide more control at high speeds. The other major difference is the two straps at the front of the cleat designed to keep the toe in place. The bottom line is that these are the best crampons for running.

See Yaktrax Run Traction Cleats on Amazon

See Yaktrax Run Traction Cleats on REI

Why trust us

This writer has spent countless hours in crampons, from guiding on a glacier in Alaska to climbing frozen waterfalls in the San Juan mountains. She has tested out many different types of crampons for hiking, ice climbing, winter running, glacier travel, and ski touring. She values durability, precision, and security in crampons and traction devices. She also currently makes a living writing about outdoor gear, so she is aware of gear trends, new arrivals, and the ins and outs of various proprietary technology.

Who this is for

From skiing to ice climbing to hiking to walking the dog, it's important to have the right gear. And if you live somewhere with snow and ice, you know how slippery even walking down the street can get. A winter traction device like Yaxtrax partners well with waterproof winter boots to provide the security you need for walking or running. But if you're a climber, skier, or mountaineer, then crampons are necessary — sometimes year-round.

How we picked

We chose the crampons and traction devices on this list through personal experience and testing, researching the best crampons on the market today, and talking to other ice climbers. We have chosen some of the best options for icy terrain, whether you're going for a walk or climbing Denali.

How we tested

We have tested crampons in Washington, Alaska, and Colorado and have done our best to find the best options for various categories. The best crampons for mountaineering are not the same as those for ice climbing. We have hiked in deep and packed snow, climbed waterfalls, climbed steep crevasses on glacier ice, and trekked on hard ice plus snow-covered glaciers.

Features to look for in crampons

Front points

The front points on your crampons are the two (or one) points sticking forward on most crampons. Front points come in both vertical and horizontal orientations.

Horizontal front points

Horizontal front points are better for snow. The horizontal orientation provides more surface area for flotation, or to support your body in snow or soft ice. Horizontal front points are great for hiking or low-angle climbing but are not ideal for steep ice climbing because it's harder to get purchase in steeper terrain, and they can shatter the ice more easily.

Vertical front points

Vertical front points on crampons look more like ice axes, often including teeth that help to "bite" into the ice surface. They are much better for ice climbing and mixed terrain. On the other hand, they tend to sink into the snow and require more precision, so they are not as good for mountaineering or flat walking.

Mono points

Mono points are a version of vertical front points, but instead of having two, you only have one. This is used for very technical thin ice and mixed climbing when you need to be incredibly precise with every foot placement.

Material

Many of the crampons on this list are made out of stainless steel, however, there are times when stainless steel is too heavy, especially if you know you'll be carrying your crampons more than wearing them. In those situations, aluminum crampons or a hybrid aluminum/steel combo are a good option. Also, consider how long you want your crampons to last or how long you want to go before resharpening your points. Stainless steel will last a lot longer than a lighter material such as aluminum.

Attachments

Crampons attach in a few different ways, and this mostly depends on what footwear you plan to wear with them.

Strap-on crampons

These are the least technical crampons for use on flat or moderate terrain. They attach primarily with nylon straps that wrap around your foot and are secure to keep the crampons on. They are the least secure and are not great for anything technical. But they work with any footwear since they don't depend on toe or heel welts.

Hybrid crampons

Hybrid crampons include elements of both strap-on bindings and step-in bindings. They have a heel lever that clicks into a heel welt on your boot, which keeps the crampon secure on your foot. But in the front, instead of a metal bar, like step-in crampons have, they typically use a rubber harness and nylon straps to adjust the fit, like a strap-on crampon. Hybrid crampons work with semi-stiff sole boots that have a heel welt but no toe welt. They are typically designed for mountaineering and moderate ice but are not ideal for steep ice climbs.

Step-in crampons

Step-in crampons are the most secure and the best crampons for technical ice climbing. They feature a heel lever that fits into a heel groove and a metal bar that fits into a toe groove. As long as the crampons are fitted to the boot, they lock in tightly and provide a secure surface for finding purchase in ice. These crampons only work with boots that have both a toe and heel welt.

Weight and packed size

If you'll be carrying your crampons for long distances in your pack, weight and packed size matter. However, smaller and lighter crampons often compromise durability and security.

Crampons FAQ

Q: What are crampons?

A crampon is a device that fits onto a boot or shoe to improve traction on snow and ice. They have metal spikes that penetrate the surface and stop the wearer from slipping. You can find many different styles of crampons for a variety of activities, from winter trail running to technical ice climbing.

Q: How do crampons work?

The metal spikes (or rings) penetrate the snow or ice and stop the wearer from slipping on the surface. When used to climb ice or steep terrain, the front points dig into the surface, allowing the wearer to stand primarily on their toes and feel stable while moving upwards on steep slopes.

Q: Can you put crampons on any hiking boots?

No, you have to find the correct type of crampon for your boot. Step-in crampons for ice-climbing and mountaineering will not fit on hiking boots. They need a stiff-shank mountaineering boot to work properly. The only crampons that will fit most hiking boots are strap-on crampons or microspikes.

Q: What are microspikes vs. crampons?

Microspikes are similar to crampons but have smaller spikes and are used on fairly level ground. Crampons have larger spikes and are used for everything, from level snow and ice to vertical climbs.

Q: How do you attach crampons to boots?

There are three different methods of attaching a crampon: strap-on bindings, hybrid, and step-in. Strap-on crampons attach with nylon straps that wrap around your foot to keep them secure. Hybrid crampons use a combination of straps and a heel lever. Step-in crampons use a heel lever and metal bar that fits into a toe groove to attach to the boot.

Sources:

1. How To Use Crampons - REI Co-Op
2. Crampons vs Microspikes: What To Use When - Limitless Hiker

Did you know that snow reflects 80% of UV radiation? Even if it’s cloudy, the UV reflection off the snow can sunburn your cornea. On a bluebird day, sunglasses provide the perfect amount of protection. Sometimes ski goggles can be too warm, especially while backcountry touring or on spring days at the resort.

Sunglasses are a must-have piece of skiing gear. So, without further ado, here are some of the best sunglasses for skiers.

The best sunglasses for skiing

Best overall sunglasses: Sunski Dipsea - Polarized Recycled Sunglasses For Skiing

• Recycled plastic
• Polarized lenses
• Lifetime warranty
• Replaceable lenses
• 100% UV-protected lens

Pros

• Comfortable, snug fit but still breathable
• Lifetime warranty
• Budget-friendly price

Cons

• Scratches somewhat easily

These sunglasses are so great that I’ve bought them multiple times. I wear them for just about everything outside because of the polarized lens and snug fit. Fit is one of the most important aspects of skiing sunglasses because the last thing you want is your eyewear falling off when you’re on a steep line. If you’re looking for ski touring sunglasses, look no further than Sunski. They provide plenty of protection but feature a lot more airflow than goggles.

These sunglasses fit perfectly on my face and they’re stylish too, which was always my biggest complaint about "performance sunglasses". Colored lenses are also a high priority, so I appreciate the color choices Sunski offers. Also, the lightweight frame is made out of recycled plastic saved from landfills.

My favorite part about all Sunski sunglasses is their lifetime breakage warranty. Basically, whether you step on these, drop them off a cliff, run over them with a bike, or whatever life throws at you, Sunski will replace them. Trust me, I’ve used their warranty. The only thing that isn’t covered under warranty is scratched lenses, but Sunski sells new lenses that snap into the recycled plastic frame for less than $20. Compared to the price of a cheap pair of sunglasses that you’ll immediately scratch up and then have to buy a new pair, buying a pair of Sunski’s is cheaper and better for the environment. Read the in-depth review here.

See Sunski Dipsea Polarized Recycled Sunglasses on Amazon

See Wiley X Gravity Polarized Sunglasses on Sunski

See Wiley X Gravity Polarized Sunglasses on REI

Most comfortable: Oakley Holbrook Polarized Rectangular Sunglasses For Skiing

• Polarized or iridium lenses
• High-definition optics
• Impact protection
• 100% UV-protection coating

Pros

• Stylish, great even for everyday wear
• Replacement lens options
• Polarized or non-polarized iridium lenses

Cons

• Iridium lenses scratch easily if not stored in a soft material

Oakley’s Holbrook sunglasses take a classic style inspired by 1940s, 50s, and 60s film stars and bring it to the modern era. These sunglasses use polarized or iridium lenses and high-definition optics to provide the clearest vision while you ski. If you’re looking for sunglasses of the highest quality, these are the skiing sunglasses for you. Oakley offers several replacement lens options whether the original ones get damaged, or you just want a sweet new look. Plus, the Holbrooks are available with Oakley’s prescription lenses.

Their six-base lens curvature allows for great peripheral vision, and Prizm lenses enhance color and contrast. They are impact-resistant, durable, and will provide you with maximum comfort all day long. If you’ve never owned a pair of Oakley’s before, then there is no better place to start than with this classic pair.

See Oakley Holbrook Polarized Rectangular Sunglasses on Amazon

Coolest design: Julbo Vermont Classic Glacier Sunglasses For Skiing

• Retro mountaineering style
• Leather nose and side shields
• Spectrum three or four polycarbonate lens
• Adjustable earloops
• Lifetime warranty

Pros

• One of the coolest-looking sunglasses on the market
• Pilot design offers ample coverage

Cos

• Somewhat bulky design
• Awkward fit on some faces

If you’re trying to be the coolest person on your ski tour, look no further than these iconic sunglasses. With the style of old-school mountaineering sunglasses, Julbo took it up a notch in performance with Spectron three polycarbonate lenses. Round lenses have a timeless feel, and the leather side shields and nose pieces add extra protection from reflecting UV radiation. On snow or glaciers, especially on a sunny day, having this extra coverage could be the difference between eye damage and a great day outside skiing.

The lightweight frame includes flexible and adjustable arms to dial in the perfect fit. Plus, choose the style that’s right for you with various color schemes from blue lenses with white leather to green lenses with tan leather.

See Julbo Vermont Classic Glacier Sunglasses on Amazon

Best budget sunglasses: RIVBOS Polarized Sports Sunglasses For Skiing

• Shock resistant
• Polarized lenses
• Hard portable carry case
• Head strap included

Pros

• Very affordable, great entry-level sunglasses
• Accessories included

Cons

• Mirror coating can wear away over time

Our budget choice for polarized sunglasses with mirrored lenses, these RIVBOS glasses won’t break the bank. The simple style wraps around your face more than some sunglasses, which provides extra protection from reflected light. The lightweight construction of the plastic frame includes soft rubber on the nose pads and arms to keep the glasses in place comfortably. The shock-resistant lenses help with durability. Choose from a variety of lens options for various light conditions, from low light to bright sun with lots of glare.

The RIVBOS glasses also come with a variety of accessories, including a hard case to protect the glasses while in transport or in storage, a cleaning cloth and pouch, a polarized test card, a headwrap, and an instruction booklet.

See RIVBOS Polarized Sports Sunglasses on Amazon

Greatest coverage: Oakley Jawbreaker Non-Polarized Iridium Sunglasses For Skiing

• Wrap-around, lightweight design
• 100% UV protection
• Switchlock technology for easy replacement lenses
• Soft carry case included
• Non-polarized lenses

Pros

• Lightweight, comfortable and great-looking
• Lots of coverage
• Good for skiing and cycling

Cons

• Blind spot on sides from frame
• Side arms are shorter

These sick glasses will be the envy of everyone you ski past. The wrap-around, taller, and wider design protects all parts of your eyes from UV rays without compromising your field of vision. The adjustable temples adapt to different types of ski helmets, making these the perfect cycling or skiing glasses.

The lenses are where Oakley sunglasses shine. Swap out lenses easily with Switchlock technology, so you can choose which lens tints you want depending on light conditions. The Oakley Plutonite lenses are impact-resistant, extremely lightweight, and protect from 100% of UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. Plus, Prizm technology enhances color and contrast, which is a huge plus while you bomb downhill, needing to keep an eye out for any obstacles.

See Oakley Jawbreaker Non-Polarized Iridium Sunglasses on Amazon

Best with metal frame: Smith Optics Prospect Elite Sunglasses

• Metal frame
• Safety rated
• UVA/UVB protection
• Non-polarized

Pros

• Metal frame adds durability
• Safety rated for extra use

Cons

• Non-polarized lens options can create lots of reflections
• Narrow frames could be a con for some applications

The Smith Optics Prospect Elite is an all-day, everyday type of shade. If you’re looking for a simple design, this is a great option. The Hydrophilic Megol nose and temple pads provide a secure fit and the metal frame is virtually indestructible. The lenses resist impact and include protection from UVA and UVB rays.

More than just for skiing, these glasses are safety-rated for anyone who needs protective glasses for work. But they also stand up to snow glare or any sort of bright lights, making these the all-in-one pair of shades for an active lifestyle. They come in both polarized and non-polarized options.

See Smith Optics Prospect Elite Sunglasses on Amazon

See Smith Optics Prospect Elite Sunglasses on Moosejaw

Best all-weather protection: Wiley X Gravity Polarized Sunglasses

• Shatterproof lenses
• Facial cavity seal gasket to prevent light, wind, and debris
• Case included
• Polarized lenses
• 100% UV protection

Pros

• Great contrast
• Climate Control system protects eyes from wind and dust

Cons

• Lenses are somewhat easy to scratch

Wiley X’s Gravity sunglasses' coolest feature is the climate control system, a facial cavity seal that seals out wind, dust, or debris from slipping through the cracks between the glasses and your face. You can also take the facial cavity seal gasket out when you don’t need the extra protection. The composite lenses meet ANSI Z87.1 safety standards for optical clarity and impact protection, meaning they work just as well as safety glasses as well as polarized sunglasses for skiing.

The plastic frame features flexible half-rubber temples with stylish cylinder accents to sit securely on your face. The glasses come with a zippered clamshell case, a cleaning cloth, a leash with rubber grips, and a t-peg elastic strap.

See Wiley X Gravity Polarized Sunglasses on Amazon

Excellent value: TOREGE Polarized Sports Sunglasses

• Three lenses included
• Rimless jacket frame
• Soft rubber nose pad for increased comfort
• Impact and scratch-resistant
• 100% UVA & UVB protection coating

Pros

• Comes with different lenses for various conditions
• Versatile yet affordable

Cons

• Not all lenses are polarized

An affordable choice for sporty sunglasses, the TOREGE Polarized Sports Sunglasses come with three interchangeable lenses to cover all light conditions. Each pair comes with a choice of a colored lens (for bright conditions), a yellow lens (for night conditions), and darker lenses (polarized for driving).

The sweet rimless jacket frame gives these glasses a lightweight feel and combined with the one-piece lens provides plenty of peripheral vision — especially when looking down at upcoming terrain. And, the polycarbonate lenses are scratch-resistant for optical clarity. A soft rubber nose pad adds comfort and stability while moving at high speeds.

This is a great pair of sunglasses for someone who doesn’t want to spend the cash for the top brands but still wants functional sun protection at a great price.

See TOREGE Polarized Sports Sunglasses on Amazon

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Why trust us

Living in Colorado, winter means lots of sun and (ideally) lots of snow. When I'm not at my desk writing, I am out in the mountains, backcountry skiing and ice climbing. I use sunglasses almost every day and have tested out many different types in different conditions. Snow glare can be intense and having proper sunglasses is vital. I've extensively researched and tested the sunglasses chosen for this guide, and understand what makes a high-quality pair.

Who this is for

If you like to hit the slopes in the winter, whether you're a regular at your local mountain or only travel once or twice a year, you need eye protection. Plus, if you mostly ski during warmer temperatures, ski goggles can be too hot and uncomfortable. Sunglasses are the perfect compromise. If you're in the market for new sunglasses, this guide is for you.

How we picked

We researched different ski sunglasses brands and chose a variety of price points with features that are important to skiers. Through testing, gathering reviews, and extensive research, we chose this list of sunglasses so that you can find a good pair for your next ski trip.

How we tested

We tested sunglasses while skinning up peaks in the San Juan mountains and skiing powder all over the Western United States. We also tested while driving to and from the mountains, since it's also important that your sunglasses work well for you everyday life. Our sunglasses go everywhere with us, whether we're rock climbing, skiing, ice climbing, hiking, or walking the dog.

Features to look for in sunglasses for skiing

Lens type

There are two typical lens types available for sunglasses: polarized and non-polarized. Polarized lenses offer less glare and fewer reflections, making them better for driving when you're looking through glass or other reflective surfaces like water. However, because they create fewer reflections, it can make it harder to see patches of ice or changes in texture, which is important when skiing. Non-polarized lenses allow you to see those changes more easily.

Lens color

Different lens colors can make you look cool, but they also offer better vision in different light conditions. For example, pink lenses help with low light but are not great for the midday sun. Clear lenses also help with darker days but will blind you on a sunny day. Yellow lenses work great for overcast days with flat light and help increase contrast, which can help you see any bumps or changes in the snow, whereas a dark lens is better for the brightest days.

Side coverage

If you're looking for side coverage, you probably want ski goggles instead of sunglasses, but some of the glasses on this list do offer removable plastic or leather side shields that provide side coverage. This helps with extra protection from sun, cold air, and wind which can help reduce eye strain while on the slopes.

Fit

Nobody wants to be uncomfortable, so make sure to check the dimensions and whether or not they have temple and nose pads for added comfort. Otherwise, you’ll be disappointed with your glasses falling off before you even make it down that first bunny hill.

Design

If style is your thing, then finding cool-looking sunglasses is going to be important. However, the design can affect the performance as well. Consider what you will be using your sunglasses for, and choose a design that fits those uses — while still looking cool.

Quality

Depending on your goals, you may want the highest quality, or you may just be looking for something cheaper and more disposable. Of course, we're all usually looking for the best quality at the best price, but there are other times when quality reigns supreme, and the price is just an afterthought.

Sunglasses for skiing FAQ

Q: What are sunglasses for skiing?

Everyone needs a high-quality pair of sunglasses for snow activities, since snow and water are two of the most reflective surfaces. Snow can blind you, so wearing eye protection is a must while on the mountain.

Like everyday sunglasses, ski sunglasses will help protect your eyes from the sun, and keep your vision sharp when going down the slopes. This helps prevent crashes and gets you back to the bottom of the lift in one piece. If you get the right pair, you’ll also pretty look cool, too.

Q: What is the difference between ski sunglasses and ski goggles?

Goggles are larger and have padding around the lens which creates a seal to protect your eyes from wind and cold air. Ski goggles are better for storm days, where you want to avoid getting snow and wind in your eyes. Ski sunglasses are better on sunny, warm days, where you really just need that UV protection but don't want your face to get too hot.

Q: What is the best lens color for ski sunglasses when skiing?

As we mentioned above, different lens colors offer different benefits. There’s no such thing as a catch-all best color as they all serve their purposes. Some sunglasses come with multiple lenses so that you can choose the best option for the day.

Another option is photochromic lenses. Commonly known as transition lenses, photochromatic lenses change colors (become darker) when exposed to UV light. They adapt to the light conditions around you, getting clearer when you go inside or the light gets darker.

Q: Are polarized sunglasses better for skiing?

Yes and no. Polarized sunglasses might be better for reducing glare, but especially at a ski resort, it can be vital to see any icy patches while you hurtle down the hill. Polarized lenses reduce the glare on the ice, which makes it more challenging to see it, especially at faster speeds. Polarized glasses are better for anyone who spends time on the water — especially if you fish because they allow you to see under the surface better. They're also better for driving, as they reduce glare on windshields and other windows.

Sources:

1. Snow Blindness: How to Prevent Sunburnt Eyes - All About Vision
2. How to Choose A Ski Goggle Lens Color - Trip Savvy
3. Heading to the Ski Slopes? Don’t Forget Your Polarized Lenses! - Optometrists Network

As a climber for the past seven years, I’ve purchased my fair share of climbing gear. The first harness I bought because it was affordable, and while it wasn’t bad, it wasn’t ideal for hanging in for long multi-pitch routes. Nor was it ideal for racking up with lots of gear once I started trad climbing.

So when I was in the market for a new harness, I went to the gear shop and started trying them on and hanging in them to see which was the most comfortable. The Petzl Luna was the most comfortable harness I tried, and it’s been my go-to ever since.

Best Uses

While I use my Petzl Luna as an all-around harness, it excels at some things more than others. It’s not the most lightweight harness, so if you’re looking for something that you’ll never notice in your pack or your body, it’s probably not the right option. Additionally, if you’re looking for a super lightweight glacier harness, you’ll definitely want to skip this one.

Since I mostly climb trad climbs and multi-pitches with some sport climbing mixed in, the Petzl Luna fits all of my needs. It’s cushy enough to hang in for long periods of time. At least for my body: Everyone’s bodies are different. But it’s not as heavy as other comfort-oriented harnesses like the Misty Mountain Cadillac. I find it to be the perfect middle ground between comfort and weight.

The Petzl Luna is perfect for single and multi-pitch trad, alpine rock climbing, and occasional sport climbing.

Features

The Luna has lots of gear space, making it ideal for the outings where you want to bring every last cordalette and runner for that blocky, run-out, alpine rock climb you have been dreaming about.

The five gear loops help you stash a full double rack, plus all the extras you think you might need. I know I’m someone who likes to have everything — just in case — so if you’re similar, having extra gear loops is key.

The two gear loops in the front are large and rigid for clipping quickly and storing lots of gear, while the back loops are flexible and angled for access even while wearing a backpack. The fifth back loop is large and flexible for storing anchor equipment or extras you don’t need all the time. There is also a rear accessory loop for a chalk bag or other needs.

The leg loops adjust, a feature that comes in handy if you climb all year round or ice climb in the winter. It’s a feature you never know you need until you’re trying to squeeze into your non-adjustable leg loops with two extra pairs of long johns on, and you can’t quite get your legs all the way in. Or, if you suffer from the fun athletic body problem of having significantly disproportionate quads to your waist, you probably already know you need a harness with adjustable leg loops.

The padded waistband supports your back while you hang around all day. The longer rise and waistband-to-leg-loop ratio of the harness are designed to fit a woman’s body comfortably.

Final Thoughts

If you’re primarily a trad climber or multi-pitch climber and want a harness that can stand up to hanging belays and carry lots of gear, the Petzl Luna is a great option. It’s a women-specific model with all the features you need for long days.

It’s been my favorite harness for a few years, to the point that I’ve had multiple of them. I find it comfortable while hanging, belaying, and climbing, and love how much room it has for gear. Plus, the purple color isn’t bad, either.

See Petzl LUNA Harness on Amazon

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If you spend a lot of time outside, a solar-powered watch is a perfect timekeeper. Mechanical watches can be inaccurate and need to be wound regularly, while quartz watches can easily run out of battery. Smartwatches often use rechargeable batteries, but then you need to remember to bring a charger. Solar-powered watches, on the other hand, use the sun or other light sources to stay charged.

Best of all, most solar timepieces can provide many months of power from a single charge. Many are built to withstand most outdoor conditions, so you can count on them in any situation.

To help you pick the right solar watch, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best on the market. Some of these are affordable but reliable models, while others are luxury timepieces that will last for decades.

The best solar powered watch

Best overall: Seiko Prospex Analog Stainless Steel Solar Powered Watch

• Stainless steel case
• Fold-over strap clasp
• Three chronograph subdials
• Water resistance to 200m (660ft)

Pros

• Stylish watch with black/blue tone accent
• Lume perfectly viewable in the dark
• Durable

Cons

• Outer dial too easily rotated
• Easily attracts fingerprint marks
• Date can be a challenge to read

Our choice for the best of the best solar watches is this Seiko. It is designed with a blue/black dial that looks smart and stylish, with three easy-to-read chronograph sub-dials within the face that convey 24 hours, 60 minutes, and sub-seconds. The stainless steel bracelet has a fold-over clasp and double push-button. The solar panel built into the face uses light energy to recharge and stay charged for long periods of time.

This watch has water resistance up to 200m. Reviewers have said that it's practically indestructible, even after years of heavy use.

See Seiko Prospex Analog Stainless Steel Solar Powered Watch on Amazon

Best dive watch: Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Solar Powered Watch

• Eco-Drive battery
• Water-resistant: 200m
• Unidirectional rotating bezel
• Stainless steel

Pros

• Charges via all kinds of light
• Water resistance to 200m
• Accurate time

Cons

• Mineral crystal scratches easily
• Small date window
• Each month has 31 days so requires adjustment

The Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster is a great solar dive watch designed to work for everyday life too. The Eco-Drive technology is 100% powered by light and never needs a battery. It stores energy in a power reserve and can stay powered for up to six months in total darkness. Plus you can charge it with any type of light — fluorescent light, desk light, etc.

Made of stainless steel and scratch-resistant mineral crystal with a comfortable, polyurethane accordion strap, it has a water resistance up to 200m. The unidirectional rotating bezel is strong enough to not rotate on its own, which is key for a solar dive watch. Three watch hands allow you to keep track of hours, minutes, and seconds. The Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster is a beautiful, all-around great solar-powered timepiece.

See Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Solar Powered Watch on Amazon

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See Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Solar Powered Watch on Citizen

Rugged & ready for anything: Casio Master of G Stainless Steel Solar Powered Watch

• Stainless steel, shock resistant
• Includes digital compass, altimeter, barometer, stopwatch, and more
• Atomic timekeeping
• Water resistance to 200m

Pros

• Charges with all light
• Water resistance to 200m
• Accurate time

Cons

• Temperature can be affected by body temperature
• Compass can be disrupted by wifi and phone signals

Rugged and ready for anything, with lots of great features including a countdown timer, five alarms, an altimeter, barometer, thermometer, and more. The crowning glory is the atomic timekeeping feature which means that you’ll never need to set the time again. It’s also water-resistant up to 200m and the buttons are durable and easy to press.

See Casio Master of G Stainless Steel Solar Powered Watch on Amazon

Best luxury solar watch: Tissot T-Touch Expert Analog-Digital Display Watch

• Uses both analog and digital display
• Scratch-resistant sapphire
• Solar quartz movement
• Water resistance to 100m (330ft)

Pros

• Stylish timepiece
• Backlit for night
• Multiple time zones

Cons

• Dial too large
• Band scratches easily

Combining both analog and digital readings, Tissot T-Touch Expert is a watch that brings the best of both worlds all into one beautiful watch. Its functions include multiple time zones, stopwatch, date, barometer, countdown timer, and more. The solar quartz movement allows it to function without running out of battery life.

The face is large enough to easily read during the day, but not too big to look out of place. When the sun goes down, you can rely on the luminescent hands and numbers to help you find the time. Overall, it is easy to program, easy to look at, and easy to keep charged with solar power. If you’re looking at stylish solar-powered watches, this is a fantastic high-quality option.

See Tissot T-Touch Expert Analog-Digital Display Watch on Amazon

Best stylish watch for hikers: Casio Pro Trek Silicone Watch

• Digital and analog display
• Nighttime illumination
• Full auto-calendar, five daily alarms, triple sensor
• Water Resistance to 100m

Pros

• 12/24 hour time format
• Power saving capabilities
• Lightweight yet durable

Cons

• Not-recessed face making it susceptible to scratches over time
• Pressure changes in colder climates

One of the best solar watches for hikers, trekkers, and all manner of outdoors people. The Casio Pro Trek comes with a slight learning curve, but it is worth it once you get the hang of everything it can do. It comes with double LED illumination to help you through the night and a bunch of cool features including a battery-level indicator, five alarms, and a full auto-calendar.

In addition to all its features, it looks great. All-black features give it a sleek look and the silicone band has a luminescent interior to show up in the dark. It is not too bulky and the face (with both analog and digital display) is easy to read.

See Casio Pro Trek Silicone Watch on Amazon

Best minimalist solar powered watch: BERING Time Classic Collection Watch

• Charges with any kind of light
• Sapphire crystal
• Date window at six o’clock
• Water resistance to 50m (164ft)

Pros

• Minimalist Danish design
• Easily adjustable wristband
• 6-12 months of charge

Cons

• Non-recessed face
• No backlight, non-luminous
• Date window small

Unlike most of the watches on this list, the BERING Time Classic Collection Watch focuses on a slim, sleek, and sophisticated design instead of functions. If you prefer timepieces that don’t distract you too much, then this product is perfect. Simple and stylish, this watch has a sapphire crystal covering a black sunray dial. It charges with any kind of light and stays charged for 6-12 months.

The strap can be easily adjusted and the whole watch is well-made with an attractive dark navy blue body. It isn’t a watch for deep-sea diving (though it is water-resistant to 50m), nor is it one that can withstand a lot of wear and tear, but this is a great option if you’re looking for a stylish solar-powered watch that tells the time and doesn’t break the bank.

See BERING Time Classic Collection Watch on Amazon

Best solar powered dress watch: Seiko Two-Tone Chronograph Dress Watch

• Two-tone finish with a 60-minute chronograph
•  Six-month power reserve
• 12-hour alarm
• Water resistance to 100m

Pros

• Easy to set up
• Lots of features
• Stylish

Cons

• Dials hard to read due to busy watch face
• Adjust date for 29/30/31 months

An attractive-looking watch with three sub-dial chronographs and a stainless steel band, the Seiko Two-Tone Chronograph is a great watch if you’re looking for high-powered dress watches. It has a Japanese quartz movement and a six-month power reserve. Plus it includes a 60-minute chronograph, a date window, and LumiBrite hands/markers. Did we mention it looks really good too?

It has dual time capabilities, a 12-hour alarm, and more features. The stainless steel band is made of links so it is adjustable by taking out links.

See Seiko Two-Tone Chronograph Dress Watch on Amazon

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Best rugged all-black solar watch: Casio G SHOCK Stainless Steel and Resin Casual Watch

• Tough, steel casing
• 31 timezones
• Digital and analog display
• Water resistance to 200m

Pros

• Durable construction
• Lots of useful features
• Shock resistant

Cons

• Difficult for at-a-glance time reading
• Weak lume feature

The Casio G Shock solar watch is designed for wear in casual situations. Like other solar watches in the G series, it is shock resistant and tough enough to withstand knocks and bumps. The digital/analog display offers the best of both worlds and is easy to read at a glance.

Even with all its features, it is still simple to set up and charge. It charges with any light source, from the sun to fluorescent lights, to campfires. It has water resistance to 200m, 31 time zones, a countdown timer, and five alarms. Keep track of the power reserve with the battery level indicator and use power saving when you get low.

See Casio G SHOCK Stainless Steel and Resin Casual Watch on Amazon

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Best everyday solar powered watch: Citizen Eco-Drive Stainless Steel Watch

• Textured silver-tone dial
• Genuine leather band with buckle closure
• Roman numeral analog display

Pros

• Excellent value for money
• Sleek and stylish
• Lightweight design

Cons

• Can’t see hands in the dark
• Stiff band

We consider this the best solar-powered watch in terms of value for money. Citizen is world-famous for their Citizen Eco-Drive technology that relies wholly on the power of the sun (or another light) to keep things ticking. Simple and stylish, this is a great everyday watch. The Japanese quartz watch has an analog display with Roman numerals.

It is lightweight and thin so you can wear it comfortably throughout the day. Unlike other quartz watches, it is silent.

See Citizen Eco-Drive Stainless Steel Watch on Amazon

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See Citizen Eco-Drive Stainless Steel Watch on Citizen

Best budget solar powered watch: Casio G-Shock Shock Resistant Multifunction Watch

• Clear digital display
• 1/100 second stopwatch and countdown timer
• 41 world time zones and four daily alarms
• Water resistant: 200m

Pros

• Comfortable and durable to be worn during all kinds of activities
• Multi-band ensures correct time
• Great value for money

Cons

• Blackout feature makes it difficult to read in daytime
• Band smaller than it looks
• Not enough solar panels for best charge

One of the toughest solar watches out there, the Casio G-Shock Shock Resistant Multifunction Watch is packed full of great functions. These include a stopwatch, 42 time zones, and a fully EL backlight for use in the dark. The solar panel technology uses solar movement to keep your watch going without changing the battery.

Encased in durable resin, you needn’t worry about aesthetic damage. Its shock-resistant design means it will continue to work even after heavy abuse.

See Casio G-Shock Shock Resistant Multifunction Watch on Amazon

Best solar atomic watch: Citizen Eco-Drive Titanium Perpetual Chrono Atomic Timekeeping Watch

• Atomic timekeeping
• Perpetual calendar
• Power reserve indicator
• Water-resistant: 200m

Pros

• Simple setup even for beginner watch collectors
• Bright luminous nighttime dial
• Lots of watch features
• Perfect fit with the half-link bracelet

Cons

• Small date and inside dials
• Band links may catch on arm hair
• Stopwatch and alarm require watch to be removed from wrist to access crown

The Citizen Eco-Drive Titanium Perpetual watch can last for up to one and a half years without light after a couple of days of full charge. This demonstrates just how reliable this beautiful watch is. It is high quality, long-lasting, with atomic timekeeping, and a perpetual calendar that means you never have to reset the date window.

See Citizen Eco-Drive Titanium Perpetual Chrono Atomic Timekeeping Watch on Citizen

Why trust us

We have researched what makes great solar watches, from the durability to the power reserve to the watch material. Then we scoured the internet and learned from testers about what makes the best solar watches on the market.

Who this is for

If you're tired of dealing with watch batteries or rewinding your mechanical watches, then you may be ready for a solar watch. Solar watches use a power reserve to last for months or years without needing to charge. If you spend a lot of time outside, or just don't ever want to worry about your watch's battery, check out our list.

How we picked

We picked the solar watches in this guide based on quality, power reserve, and other important features. We chose some dress watches and some outdoorsy rugged watches so that there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking for your everyday watch or something to take to the depths as a dive watch, you will find lots of options and information in this guide.

Features to look for in solar powered watches

When deciding on the best solar watch for you, it is important to consider what features you need. Here are a few considerations.

Technology 

Technology is ever-evolving, so picking a current watch can stop you from feeling left out when the newest solar technology comes out. But, many of these watches are time-tested so do your research and choose the best watch for your lifestyle. The solar watches on this list are designed to last for a long time.

Budget

The best watches are typically the most expensive. However, make sure to buy within your budget, there are plenty of great options at lower price points.

Waterproofing

If you spend time outside you'll need a waterproof watch. Purchasing a watch that is adequately waterproof will prevent any unnecessary damage. For those who love snorkeling, swimming, diving, or other water sports, you will need a watch that is more than just splashproof. Most of the watches on our list are water-resistant up to at least 100m but double-check in case you fall in love with one that isn’t.

Functions

Consider just what you need the watch for. It might feel like the more functions the better, right? But this is not always the case. Unless you frequently go on hikes or need GPS tracking to find your way, you probably don’t need the best solar GPS watch. If you just need a watch to wear to the office every day, then something that can just tell the time and date will suffice. Of course, if you need timers and stopwatches, thermometers, a chronograph function, access to different time zones, and both digital and analog readings, then, by all means, go for a watch that has all these features.

Design

Is the watch you want to buy really you? We know you want a watch that looks cool, but if the face is too large, it might get in the way and catch on things during the day. Are your wrists too thick or too thin for them a design to look and feel good? Taking the design of the watch into consideration and how it will look on you is something to think about.

Quality

High-quality solar watches can be more expensive but may be worth it when they last for 10+ years. However, not everyone needs a super high-quality watch. If you know you'll be beating it up, you may want something that is cheaper and easier to replace.

Battery life

Solar watches use solar technology to charge the battery, meaning excellent battery life. Plus, the solar technology keeps you from ever having to replace the battery. Some watches have a battery life of up to a year or more without recharging, whereas others have a battery life of a few months.

Weight 

There are some hefty watches out there. If you have a smaller wrist, or just don't want your wrist to feel too heavy, you may want to look for a lighter (and smaller) watch. Plastic is going to be lighter than something like stainless steel, however, stainless steel watches will be more durable. If you love the feeling of a heavy, durable watch, definitely look for something with high-quality durable materials.

Your climbing harness is arguably the most important piece of gear you will buy as a climber. And it’s probably one of the first things you’ll buy if you’re just getting into climbing (unless you’re just into bouldering).

But whether this is your first harness or your fifteenth, you’re looking for help for a reason. Maybe you want to know what’s new on the market, find some personal feedback on a new type of harness, or maybe you just don’t know where to start.

Whatever you’re looking for, our guide to the best climbing harnesses includes models that I have personally tested, as well as others I have experience with through friends and climbing partners. From lightweight sport climbing harnesses to comfortable climbing harnesses that you can hang in all day, there’s something for everyone on this list.

The best climbing harness

Best all-around harness: Petzl Luna Harness

• Lots of padding
• Split webbing harnesses
• Five gear loops
• Large rear gear loop
• Adjustable leg loops

Pros

• Comfortable for long periods
• Lots of space for additional gear
• Ideal for multi-pitch climbing

Cons

• Sizing could be more inclusive

The Petzl Luna is my current favorite harness. So far, I’ve owned two of these because it’s an incredibly comfortable harness to hang in for long periods of time. These have accompanied me multi-pitch climbing in Colorado, Washington, California, and Alaska, but work just as well for sport climbing or single-pitch trad climbing. One of my favorite features is the five gear loops for all the gear I like to carry on a gear-protected pitch. Plus, each gear loop is really well-sized.

The waist and leg loops are both adjustable, which I prefer over fixed leg loops because it allows me to wear different layers and adjust for comfort. It also includes a haul loop in the back and reinforced belay loops centered in the front. The split webbing in the waist belt adds comfort and support, especially while hanging.

While this harness is probably overkill for the gym, it’s a great option for trad climbers. Truly one of the best rock climbing harnesses out there. The Adjama harness is the men’s version. Read the in-depth review here.

See the Petzl Luna Harness on Amazon

See Petzl Luna Harness on REI

See Petzl Luna Harness on Backcountry

Best lightweight harness: Black Diamond Technician

• Lightweight
• Adjustable leg loops
• Ice clipper slots
• Five gear loops

Pros

• Waist and legs are quick to adjust
• Lots of space for gear
• Lightweight and versatile

Cons

• Can be uncomfortable for some body shapes

The Black Diamond Technician impressed our editor with its impeccable weight distribution, comfort, and lightweight nature. This versatile climbing harness has been her go-to for sport, trad, and multi-pitches (up to ten pitches) for the last four years. She needs the adjustable leg loops, as her thighs don’t fit the normal ratios seen in non-adjustable leg loop harnesses. The waist belt and leg loops adjust quickly and easily.

While she’s less of an alpine and ice climber, she loves the versatility of this harness, as it sports four ice clipper slots and weighs only 13.3oz. The rear loop is also handy for holding your prusik and ATC.

There’s also a version of the Technician that includes RECCO technology for an added safety feature. The RECCO reflector includes a diode and antenna for a rescue scenario.

See Black Diamond Technician on REI

See Black Diamond Technician on Backcountry

See Black Diamond Technician on Black Diamond Equipment

Best budget harness: Petzl CORAX

• All-purpose harness
• Four large gear loops
• Adjustable leg loops
• Double buckle waist belt
• FRAME technology design

Pros

• Versatile and adjustable harness
• Good entry-level harness
• Rigid front gear loops

Cons

• A bit too heavy and bulky for mountaineering

Petzl’s Corax harness is a great beginner-intermediate option if you’re looking for a quality harness but you’re not sure what you want yet. It’s fully adjustable with two double-backed buckles on either side of the belay loop, which allows you to keep the belay loop centered even if you need to cinch it down tighter in the waist. The leg loops are also adjustable for the perfect fit. The FRAME technology design distributes weight across your hips.

Four gear loops keep everything organized on your harness. The front gear loops are rigid, which makes it easier to clip and unclip climbing gear, while the rear gear loops are flexible and angled to easily access from the front which makes them more comfortable with a backpack on.

This is a good harness for everything from alpine to gym climbing. It’s not the lightest option out there, but if you don’t know what style of climbing you’re going to be doing, this is a pretty safe bet. Plus, it’s affordable, leaving you more budget for climbing shoes.

See the Petzl CORAX on Amazon

See Petzl CORAX on REI

Premium harness: Arc'teryx C-Quence Harness

• Reinforced gear loops
• Ice clipper slots
• Haul loop
• Warp strength technology

Pros

• Extremely comfortable
• Suitable for all-year-round climbing
• Built to last yet lightweight and packable

Cons

• Sizes are off compared to other harnesses

Our premium pick, this harness is about as high-end as you can get. If you know anything about Arc’teryx’s reputation, you’ll know something about this harness. It is made to last with a high-quality build, plus it’s known as the most comfortable harness on the market.

Arc’teryx uses Contoured Warp Strength Technology instead of webbing to create a harness that hugs your body in the right places and doesn’t ride up. For the women’s model, they have given it a longer rise (so it sits above your hips, not on your hip bones), and newly renovated leg loop geometry. It does have a slightly different sizing fit than other Arc’teryx harnesses, so make sure to consult the size guide or try it on in the store as many people have found this harness to fit larger than others.

Designed to be lightweight (12.5oz women’s and 13.1oz men’s), it’s a good all-around option for any rock climber. Lightweight and packable, it’s easy to stuff into a backpack or comfortable enough to wear while hiking. It has reinforced gear loops, ice clipper slots, and a rear haul loop for easy access to everything you need throughout the climb. The fixed leg loops are designed to be comfortable for sports climbing or trad routes.

See the Arc'teryx C-Quence Harness on Arc'teryx

Safety conscious harness: Metolius Safe Tech Deluxe Harness

• Fully rated on every part of the harness
• Four large gear loops
• Wide waist belt
• Double belay loops

Pros

• Safety conscious design
• Comfortable
• Lots of clip-in points

Cons

• One of the heaviest harnesses in this guide

Built for the most safety-conscious climber, this harness puts safety over all else. It’s a lot heavier than some of the options on this list, but every part of the harness is fully rated to withstand 10kn of force. On most harnesses, only the belay loops and tie-in points are fully rated to hold force. This means that, if you needed to, you could clip into an anchor or gear with any part of the harness (leg risers, gear and haul loops, leg loops, belay loops).

The Metolius Safe Tech harness uses foam lined with fleece for a cushy, comfy fit on the waist and leg loops. The waist belt and leg loops are both adjustable with double-passed webbing. You can also adjust the leg risers to give more rise between the legs and waistband which can help if you prefer your harness to sit at your waist instead of your hips.

The harness includes four reinforced gear loops, a haul loop, and two belay loops. Having two belay loops can help you reduce clutter on your harness by providing an additional, fully-rated attachment point for a belay device or anchor.

See the Metolius Safe Tech Deluxe Harness on Backcountry

See Metolius Safe Tech Deluxe Harness on Moosejaw

Best way to get started climbing: Black Diamond Momentum Climbing Package

• Entry-level harness
• Four gear loops
• Dual Core construction
• Trakfit adjustable leg loops
• Speed adjust waist belt buckle

Pros

• Great value, versatile harness
• Perfect for beginners
• Easy to adjust

Cons

• Small gear loops
• Not comfortable for every type of climbing

Get everything you need with this convenient package from Black Diamond. When I started climbing, I bought one of these and it was the easiest (and cheapest) way to get started. This package comes with a chalk bag, belay device, locking carabiner, and chalk. All you need are some climbing shoes and you’re ready to climb.

This harness is basic but ticks all the necessary boxes for gym and sport climbers. It’s probably not the best option for longer trad routes, but it can do the trick if you’re just getting started. Four separated gear loops are stiff and easy to clip but are not the biggest. If you’re looking for a harness that can hold all your climbing equipment, check out some of the trad climbing harnesses on this list.

The Black Diamond Momentum features adjustable leg loops with Trakfit buckles, a pre-threaded quick-adjust waist belt, and a haul loop. Plus, Dual Core Construction in the waist belt uses split webbing for more comfort and support while weighting the harness.

See the Black Diamond Momentum Climbing Package on REI

See Black Diamond Momentum Climbing Package on Black Diamond Equipment

Best sport climbing harness: Black Diamond Solution

• Four pressure-molded gear loops
• Adjustable waist and risers
• Fusion Comfort technology
• Sport series

Pros

• Lightweight construction
• Ideal for sport climbers
• Looks sleek and stylish

Cons

• Not as comfortable as some
• Not as many features as other harnesses

Designed to be a good all-around harness, the Black Diamond Solution is a simple, lightweight design that excels at sport and gym climbing. Weighing only 11.6oz for a men’s medium, it is one of the lightest climbing harness models on this list. It has fixed leg loops that are comfortable for many, but non-adjustable leg loops don’t work for everyone.

The company uses Fusion Comfort Construction for its Black Diamond Solution: three strips of webbing reduce pressure points and distribute the load on the waist and leg loops. The harness is also contoured to give you more comfort and range of motion. The four gear loops are rigid and rectangular, which makes them easy to clip, but they’re not huge, which makes this harness better suited for sport climbing than for trad.

Personally, I think this harness looks really good — it’s sleek and stylish — but it didn’t feel very comfortable for me. That’s not to say that someone who really values the lightweight, sleek style for sport or alpine rock climbing wouldn’t love this harness.

See the Black Diamond Solution on Amazon

See Black Diamond Solution on Black Diamond Equipment

See Black Diamond Solution on REI

Why trust us

I've spent a lot of time hanging around in climbing harnesses. I'm an AMGA certified Single Pitch Instructor and I've been a glacier guide, worked at a climbing gym, and spent the past six years climbing during most of my free time.

Who this is for

Whether this is your first harness or you've been in the industry for years, there's always something new to consider with climbing gear.

How we picked

We chose the harnesses on this list through personal experience, research, and testing. We also wanted to make sure to include something for every type of climber, so there are a broad variety of high-quality harnesses included.

How we tested

We tested climbing harnesses on classic climbs around the world— from the sandstone splitters of Indian Creek to the sticky granite of Squamish, BC. We've clipped bolts and plugged gear, built anchors, and belayed for hours. We have put our harnesses through the wringer, dragging them through offwidths and up peaks. We want our harnesses to always perform when we need them to — and last for years— so that is what we looked for in testing.

Features to look for in climbing harnesses

Comfort

Depending on the type of climbing you typically do, you will be looking for a different level of comfort. If you're looking for the lightest climbing harness, it probably won't be as comfortable. If you're looking for big wall harnesses or something you plan to hang in for long periods of time, you'll probably want the most comfortable harness you can find.

Gear loops

Again, depending on the type of climbing you do, you will want more or fewer gear loops. For an all-around climbing harness, four gear loops are typical. But if you do a lot of trad or big wall climbing, you will probably be happy to have more (the Misty Mountain Cadillac has six). There are also some gym harnesses that only have two gear loops since you don't need to hang more than some quickdraws on your harness if you only climb in a gym.

Versatility

If you’re an experienced climber, you probably know what you want from your harness, and might look for something super specific. If not, you probably want something that is versatile. Look for something suitable for all types of climbing and once you have a better idea of what you are looking for, you can find a more specific harness. Lots of features on your harness keep you from needing multiple, but sometimes those features come at the cost of weight.

Durability

Durability is obviously important because it’s a piece of safety equipment. All rock climbing harnesses are well made and have to meet safety criteria, but you should still inspect them regularly for signs of wear. Most harnesses will last for multiple years of use, but make sure to always inspect all your climbing gear regularly.

Weight & size

Most harness manufacturer websites and gear stores will help you choose the right size harness, which is based on your waist and hip measurements. The weight of your harness may or may not be important depending on what you want it for. If you do a lot of alpine climbing or mountaineering, you might care a lot about how heavy your harness is (because weight matters when you're hiking uphill all day). But if you mostly just crag close to the road or in a gym, you may care less about weight and choose your harness for features and comfort.

Adjustability

If you’re not 100% sure what size you need, make sure the harness is adjustable. That way you can adjust the leg loops and waist to fit perfectly. Harnesses that feature adjustable leg loops and waist belts can also be useful if you plan to wear them with different amounts of layers during different seasons, or if your hips are significantly bigger than your waist.

Types of climbing harnesses

Gym climbing harness

Gym and sport climbing harnesses are typically lightweight and not necessarily designed for hanging in for long periods of time. They are often affordable and pretty basic since you normally won't have a lot of gear hanging off of them. Similar to a gym climbing harness, a sport climbing harness might not have that many gear loops, and not a ton of padding compared to other styles. These harnesses often have fixed leg loops.

Mountaineering harnesses

Designed for mountaineering, a mountaineering harness is super lightweight and basic compared to other types of harnesses. They would not be used for rock climbing since mountaineering harnesses are not designed to hold your weight for long periods of time — pretty much only in an emergency. They pack down super small and typically only have small gear loops.

Alpine or ice climbing harnesses

Another type of mountaineering harness is an alpine climbing harness, which would still be lightweight, but designed to hold your weight for longer and even at hanging belays. Alpine climbing harnesses also include ice clipper slots.

Traditional climbing harnesses

A trad climbing harness or a big wall harness is the cushiest and comfiest type of harness. Typically trad harnesses have lots of gear loops due to the amount of gear you need. They also typically include a rear haul loop, adjustable leg loops, and very comfortable waist belts and leg loops.

Climbing harness FAQ

Q: When should I replace my climbing harness?

The general rule is to replace your harness after seven years of use, even if it doesn’t show any sign of wear. If your climbing harness starts to show any sign of wear on weight-bearing parts (like webbing or the belay loop), replace it as soon as possible.

Q: What's the difference between men’s and women’s climbing harnesses?

The main difference is in the fit of the harness. Women's climbing harnesses are typically designed for a smaller waist and larger hips, which gives them a longer rise between the waist and leg loops. However, some harnesses are unisex and can fit anyone.

Q: How tight should climbing harness leg loops be?

The leg loops are less important for holding your weight compared to the waist belt. So, really keep them as tight as is comfortable to stop them from riding up and hurting any sensitive spots. Some leg loops are not adjustable, so make sure to check whether or not the harness you are looking at has adjustable leg loops if that is important to you.

Q: How strong are climbing harnesses?

Climbing harnesses are very strong. They are designed to stand up to forces that would harm you before they would harm the harness. All climbing harnesses go through thorough testing before they can be released publically. Harnesses designed for an adult's body weight have belay loops rated to 15kn (3,372lbs).

Q: Are climbing harnesses comfortable?

This depends on the harness. Some are designed to be comfortable, while others are designed to be lightweight. If you're looking for something to hang in all day long at hanging belays while doing climbing photography or aid climbing, you will probably want something uber-comfy and plush.

On the other hand, if you're trying to send really hard climbs and need that ultralightweight experience on the crux dyno, your harness might not be as comfortable to hang around in.

For someone just starting out, go for something more comfortable. But you also probably don't need the highest-end comfy harness. Find the line between comfort, cost, and all-around use that works best for your needs and budget.

Sources:

1. Differences Between Men’s And Women’s Climbing Harness - Climb Tall Peaks
2. When To Retire Climbing Gear - REI Co-Op

Named after the iconic Tommy Caldwell, La Sportiva's TC Pro shoes have been the gold standard for trad climbing and crack climbing since their conception. The high-top design is reminiscent of climbing shoes from past eras, but the functionality is 100% modern.

If you're a crack climber, want your ankles to be protected, or are just looking for an all-around comfortable but well-performing climbing shoe, the TC Pro is an excellent option.

As someone with various foot issues (a bunion, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendonitis…), comfort is number one when it comes to climbing shoes. I wish I could wear super down-turned, tight, high-performance shoes, but even for sport climbing and bouldering, I need my shoes to be comfortable and supportive.

So when I first tried TC Pros, I knew I had found a shoe that fit all my needs. They're sensitive enough for smearing yet stiff enough to stand on small edges without hurting my toes. They protect my ankles from the inevitable scratches I used to get while climbing cracks with other shoes. And I can wear them all day long without any pain.

Features

The TC Pros feature a moderate downturn and medium-high asymmetry that adds precision and technical capability without taking away much comfort. You could always downsize for a more precise fit, although most people buy these shoes for all-day comfort instead of technical precision.

While I prioritize comfort, my partner does own multiple pairs of TC Pros, all in different sizes — tighter for hard climbing and looser for long comfortable climbing.

The 4mm Vibram XS Edge rubber strikes a balance of durability with stickiness, and I feel like they do a good job with that balance. The rubber on my shoes tends to last through a year or so of climbing most weekends in the spring, summer, and fall before they need a resole.

The leather upper molds to your feet over time, providing protection and comfort. There is a bit of a break-in period when they feel pretty stiff, in both the sole and the upper, but that quickly goes away after some use. The lace-up closure is easy to adjust and especially helps if you have weirdly shaped feet. The laces are one of the less durable parts of the shoe but are easy to replace if they do break before the rest of the shoe does.

Best Uses

Many people use TC Pros as their all-around or only climbing shoe. While I wouldn't recommend them for gym climbing, they can pretty much hold their own in any outdoor climbing situation.

While they are designed and acclaimed for crack climbing, trad climbing, and slab climbing, they really can excel at sport climbing and could even be used for bouldering in a pinch. Not that I would recommend them for someone pushing the limits of bouldering.

Regarding rock types, they genuinely excel at granite climbing. The big walls of Yosemite are actually what prompted this shoe's creation. I also love them for sandstone cracks in Indian Creek and Basalt columns in the PNW. They are not as great for limestone since the toe doesn't work well for pockets compared to more aggressive, softer shoes (although they stand well on small edges, so they could work for some limestone climbing!).

Final Thoughts

If you're a trad and crack climber looking for a comfortable shoe that still performs well, the TC Pro is your shoe. Yes, they're expensive, but they last through many resoles if you treat them well. And they'll be your go-to shoe as soon as you try them on.

From Yosemite big walls to Washington Cascade alpine rock to sandstone in Red Rocks, TC Pros are a shoe that can do pretty much everything. And you'll be grateful to never have scuffed up ankles from off-widths again.

See La Sportiva TC Pro on Backcountry

See La Sportiva TC Pro on La Sportiva

See La Sportiva TC Pro on REI

La Sportiva’s Miura climbing shoes come in two different styles: lace-up and VS. Although they are technically the same shoe, they’re suitable for different applications. The lace-up version works well for a variety of applications and on different terrains. In contrast, the Miura VS (hook and loop closure) version is more bouldering-specific, since it’s designed as more of a slipper and is less adjustable than the Miura lace.

The Miura lace is one of my all-time favorite shoes, thanks to its versatility in technical climbing. The pointed, asymmetrical toe is excellent for sport climbing, especially on overhanging walls and limestone pockets. It also excels on small edges because of the stiffer sole, yet it smears almost as well as its edges. Plus, it’s my go-to shoe for finger cracks because the thin toe fits well into cracks thinner than a .75, unlike my typical crack climbing shoe, the TC Pro.

Technology

The La Sportiva Miura lace and the Miura VS have slightly different features but start from the same base. The slingshot rand and Powerhinge system help you edge on the tiniest holds. The slingshot rand is a piece of rubber that wraps around the back of your heel and the bottom of your foot. It helps keep your shoe in place when putting pressure on your toes. It also helps with heel hooks.

La Sportiva ties the slingshot rand into their Powerhinge system that wraps the whole foot in rubber and provides extra support when toeing in on a tiny foothold. The Miura VS and the Miura lace use 4mm Vibram XS Edge rubber to maintain shape, grip, and precision while edging.

For closures, the La Sportiva Miura lace uses a speed lacing system that easily and quickly adjusts for your foot (one of the reasons I love these shoes). The leather upper and multi-paneled liner molds to fit your foot over time. The Miura VS is a three-strap hook and loop closure that compliments the one-piece leather upper and synthetic liner. It’s unlined on the sole for better sensitivity.

Final Thoughts

The Miura lace is one of my all-time favorite shoes for sport climbing, bouldering, and thin crack climbing. It adjusts well to your feet due to the lace-up closure; if you size up a bit, they are comfortable enough to wear all day long.

The Miura VS is better for gym climbing, bouldering, and steep sport climbing. It’s a stiffer shoe designed to fit more tightly due to the slipper style and hook and loop closure.

Both versions of the Miura come in women’s and men’s versions. The women’s is slightly lower volume, although, with the lace-up style, it’s easy to adjust to fit most feet. I’ve worn both the men’s and women’s lace-up Miuras and find them comparable in fit and performance.

Overall, these are high-quality performance climbing shoes that work well for various styles of climbing. You will probably get a lot out of the Miura VS or the Miura Lace (or both!).

The Buy

The La Sportiva Miura Lace and VS are available directly through La Sportiva, many in-person and online outdoor retailers, and even places like Amazon.com. You may even find these shoes at your local climbing gym. The MSRP for these shoes is $179, but you can often find a good deal if you look around.

See La Sportiva Miura Climbing Shoes on Backcountry

See La Sportiva Miura Climbing Shoes on La Sportiva

Climbers often like to blame their climbing ability on their shoes. But does it really matter what you wear on your feet? Of course, your technique is more important than what climbing shoes you are wearing, but having the perfect shoes for the type of climbing does matter.

Many avid climbers have an arsenal of climbing shoes. Wearing your comfy trad climbing shoes isn’t going to work well if you’re on a steep sport or bouldering route.

Read on to learn about the best climbing shoes out there.

The best rock climbing shoe

Best all-around climbing shoe: La Sportiva Miura Climbing Shoes

• Leather upper
• Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber sole
• Dentex lining prevents stretch
• Downturned lace-up shoes
• Stiff shoes

Pros

• Versatile outdoor climbing shoes
• Great at edging
• Heel hook capable

Cons

Most of the time, you won’t need firestarters to get your campfire going. However, they’re good for those days when it’s raining or all the wood is wet, or you need to start a warming fire quickly.

In this guide, we’re going to take a look at today’s best firestarters. As vital pieces of survival gear, firestarters can make the difference between being found and being found alive. A blazing campfire can keep you warm, help you purify water, cook food, and even scare away predators.

The best firestarter

Best survival fire starting kit: Survival SPARK Magnesium Survival Fire Starter

• Wind-proof, waterproof, and cold-resistant properties
• Up to 15,000 strikes
• Integrated compass and whistle
• Lanyard included

Pros

• Multiple tools in one
• Lasts a very long time
• Durable construction

Cons

• Some users had issues removing the outer coating before finding sparks

Start a fire with your Survival Spark Magnesium Survival Fire Starter by shaving a bit of magnesium from the rod onto your kindling or other tinder and then dragging the striker along the rod to send sparks onto the shavings. It’s small enough to fit in any backpack and take along on any adventure.

The Survival Spark has a little more up its sleeve. If you look closely at the handle, you’ll see a fully functioning compass. It also includes an emergency whistle and the rod is good for 15,000 strikes.

See Survival SPARK Magnesium Survival Fire Starter on Amazon

See Survival SPARK Magnesium Survival Fire Starter on Walmart

Easy to use fire starter: Bayite Survival Ferrocerium Drilled Flint Fire Starter

• Quality ferrocerium rods
• Steel striker
• Waterproof and weatherproof
• 5ft paracord included

Pros

• Large size is easy to use
• Quick and easy to ignite
• Works in any weather and altitude

Cons

• Can be hard to use with wet wood

Having a firestarter isn’t all about preparing for an unforeseen situation. You can also use it for your outdoor barbecue or for lighting a campfire. The Bayite Ferrocerium Drilled Firestarter includes a four-inch ferrocerium that’s easy to use once the outer coat has been peeled off to expose the striking surface. Simply position the steel striker/scraper at an angle to the rod, then push the striker forward towards the tinder.

The rod and striker are weather-resistant. Come rain, shine, snow, wind, or high altitude, this firestarter is a sure companion. It is also very affordable.

See Bayite Survival Ferrocerium Drilled Flint Fire Starter on Amazon

See Bayite Survival Ferrocerium Drilled Flint Fire Starter on Walmart

Best wooden handle fire starter: überleben Zünden Fire Starter

• Handcrafted wooden handle
• Six-function multi-tool
• 12,000 to 20,000 strikes
• Money-back guarantee policy

Pros

• Simple and quick to use
• Versatile, can even be used as a bottle opener
• Wooden handle is comfortable to hold

Cons

• Adhesive issues for some users

A notable feature that distinguishes the Überleben Zünden Fire Starter from others on this list is the wooden handgrip, which makes it easy and comfortable to hold. It features a quick and easy fire lighting process. Strike the ferro stick with the steel scraper to produce sparks of up to 5,500°F. That's more than enough to start a fire, even in cold or windy environments. The steel tool can also be used as a surface scraper, ruler, and bottle opener. Note that you have to remove the protective coating before you can make a fire.

With a weight of a mere three ounces, you can easily hang it around your neck with the included lanyard. Depending on the thickness of your starter, you can get between 12,000 and 15,000 strikes out of this fire starter.

See überleben Zünden Fire Starter on Amazon

Best fire-starting knife: SE Fixed Blade Outdoor Tanto Knife

• 440 stainless steel construction
• Ferro fire rod included
• Comes with a sheath

Pros

• Versatile survival kit
• Durable construction
• Great value for money

Cons

• Nylon cord and sheath are not the highest quality
• Knife needs sharpening for best use

The SE Fixed Blade Outdoor Tanto Knife is a survival knife and a magnesium alloy fire starter in one. The 7in knife is complemented by a 1.5in ferrocerium rod for a complete survival kit. Outdoor enthusiasts love the versatility and durability of this little blade for both emergency situations and weekend car camping trips.

Use the blade to shave kindling off of a larger branch to get your fire started. Then slide the knife down the ferrocerium to create sparks. Use the back of the knife to scrape the ferro stick to keep the blade sharp. Keep your sparks burning, add more wood, and you’ll have a blazing fire in no time. If you’re a fan of all-in-one gear, this is the best fire-starting kit for you.

See SE Fixed Blade Outdoor Tanto Knife on Amazon

Longest-lasting fire starter: überleben Kraftig Fire Starter

• Lasts for up to 20,000 strikes
• Six-function multi-tool included
• 1/2 inch thick

Pros

• Completely waterproof
• Long-lasting
• Tough construction but easy to use

Cons

• Bigger and heavier than most

The Uberleben fire starter is a beast. At half an inch thick and with a choice of five or eight inches long, this stick of ferrocerium will be reliable for years. The Uberbelen ferro blend is designed to balance durability and softness, making it incredibly easy to light a fire — even in wet or windy conditions.

The rod throws sparks at temperatures up to 5,500°F, plus the stick comes with a multi-tool that serves as a tinder scraper, map scale, hex wrench, and bottle opener. It also comes with a cord lanyard to keep it close at hand. However, as some reviewers mention, this thing isn’t light, so you might just want to keep it in a backpack.

See überleben Kraftig Fire Starter on Amazon

See überleben Kraftig Fire Starter on BladeHQ

Simplest fire starter: Bayite Ferrocerium Rod Flint

• Simple ferro stick
• 4in rod
• Hole for paracord
• Up to 12,000 strikes

Pros

• Reliable and durable
• Easy to hold onto

Cons

• No scraper included

If you’re just looking for a simple no-nonsense ferrocerium rod to do the trick, this is a great option. However, it doesn’t come with any scraper so make sure you have something with you. Bayite recommends using the back of a box cutter blade, or any other high-quality steel. But bear in mind that a bad-quality blade will not produce sufficient sparks from the fire stick.

This stick produces hot sparks up to 5,500°F and has a lifespan of up to 12,000 strikes.

See Bayite Ferrocerium Rod Flint on Amazon

See Bayite Ferrocerium Rod Flint on Walmart

Best multiuse fire starter: BlizeTec Fire Starter 6-In-1 Fire Starter Device

• Six-in-one fire kit
• Magnesium flint bar
• Scraper included
• Last up to 12,000 strikes

Pros

• Easy to use even when wet
• Versatile little camping kit
• Completely weatherproof

Cons

• Some had issues with the durability of the plastic handle

BlizeTec presents an awesome six-in-one fire kit that provides several essential pieces of survival gear in a package no bigger than a keychain. There’s the Ferro rod that’s good for up to 12,000 strikes, the luminous handle that provides a modicum of light for your night survival efforts (or just helps you locate it in the dark), an emergency whistle that will wake the dead, and a ruler/bottle opener with a cerated edge that can cut a rope.

The fire steel itself is completely weatherproof and will continue to light your fire when your BIC lighter gives out in the rain. The measurements carved out of the side of the multi-tool will help you plot distances.

See BlizeTec Fire Starter 6-In-1 Fire Starter Device on Amazon

Best two-pack fire starter & survival kit: Swiss Safe 5-in-1 Fire Starter with Compass

• Multi-tool design
• 16,000 strikes per firestarter
• Includes compass, whistle, and steel scraper
• Wind, water, and cold resistance

Pros

• Versatile survival kit
• Reliable compass included
• Good size for striking
• Lasts a long time

Cons

• Can be slippery and hard to hold onto

No one ever plans to get lost in the wilderness, but with the Swiss Safe five-in-one fire starter, any wrong turns or lost-map shenanigans will be a little easier to deal with. This handy kit comes with two of the best fire starters, with a unique design with multiple uses. Each rod is good for 16,000 strikes and works no matter the weather. The magnesium ferrocerium rod creates sparks instantly at a temperature of up to 5,500°F.

This fire-starting tool includes a compass, whistle, scraper, and paracord — all great things to have in a survival situation. Furthermore, the compact and lightweight design means it won’t take up much room in your day pack.

See Swiss Safe 5-in-1 Fire Starter with Compass on Amazon

See Swiss Safe 5-in-1 Fire Starter with Compass on Walmart

Best lightweight fire starter: Light My Fire FireSteel Scout Magnesium Firestarter

• Magnesium Ferro rod
• Bioplastic grips
• Integrated whistle
• Weatherproof

Pros

• Easy to use
• Super-lightweight
• Starts a fire even when wet

Cons

• Some find it too small
• Doesn’t last as long as other options

The Light My Fire FireSteel Scout Magnesium Firestarter is the perfect option for someone worried about the weight of their fire-starting kit but needing a reliable fire-starting method – this bad boy is tiny! The Light My Fire FireSteel Scout is made up of two components: the fire steel, which is a rod fitted with a colored plastic grip made out of bioplastics, and the metal striker which also includes its own grip. Both of these can be kept on a paracord lanyard, so they won’t be misplaced.

To use, simply rake the metal striker on the side of the rod. This action will produce showers of sparks to direct onto any fuel source or tinder. For example, when lighting a stove to cook food that does not come with a built-in igniter, turn on the gas and then strike this fire starter and direct the showers of sparks to ignite the stove. It’s that simple! This tool does not require the use of any flint, battery or lighting fluid. So you don’t have to spend extra money on replacements. This is one of the best fire starters for everyday use because of its size and ease of use.

See Light My Fire FireSteel Scout Magnesium Firestarter on Amazon

Why trust us

We have a team that loves being outside. We camp, hike, hunt, climb, and generally love to explore the outdoors. Fire can be vital and this guide to the best fire starters includes options that will reliably get one going every time.

Who this is for

This guide is for anyone who spends time outside and wants a reliable way to start a fire. You can use the options in this guide anywhere, from your backyard BBQ to a backcountry survival situation.

How we picked

Maybe flint and steel seem a little too Bear Grylls. Well, this guide gives you a lot of other options. We have mostly chosen ferrocerium-based fire-starting tools, as they are regarded as the most reliable and easiest to use. We wanted to provide options that will get you a roaring fire every single time.

Features to look for in firestarters

While firestarters aren’t as complex as some high-tech devices, there are a few things to keep in mind before you buy one.

Size

Fire-starting tools can range from just over an inch long to six inches or more. So does it matter what length fire starter you get? Truth be told, you can start a fire with anything, but it’s typically easier if your Ferro rod is five or six inches. You’ll get a more robust cascade of sparks that will increase your chances of getting the fire started quickly. Thickness also matters, thicker fire starters typically last longer.

Scraper

The scraper or striker is the device you use to scrape the ferro rod to create sparks. While just about any sharp object will do in a pinch, you should try to always use a hard steel scraper. Fortunately, most of the above-reviewed fire starters come with good-quality scrapers of their own.

Coating

Some folks take their new fire starters into the woods and are aghast when they won’t produce sparks. Most of the time it’s not the fire starter's fault. It’s because the person has forgotten to remove the coating on the ferro rod. Don’t let that be you. Also, remember to hold the scraper at a 45° angle to the rod for best results.

Safety

As long as you use the fire starter as intended, all fire-starting tools are similar levels of safe — it's once you get the fire going that you need to be careful. Of course, you will want to establish safety rules with the people in your group, and take safety measures as the person starting the fire. Wearing gloves and using tools can be a way to protect yourself from the flames.

Ease of use

Does the starter rod include an easy-to-hold grip? Is it hard to scrape? These are good things to research before purchasing a fire starter. In general, we recommend reading all you can and understanding how to best prepare your fire, firestarter, and tinder.

Portability

If you plan to travel long distances with your fire starter, you probably want something small and light. Some of the fire starter options on this list are great for portability but will sacrifice other things, like durability. Whereas the fire starter that lasts longer might be heavier or bulkier.

Weather resistance

If you're worried about wet weather, you will want to make sure you have a fire starter that will work no matter what. That's why lighters are not always the most reliable option. Pretty much all of the tools on this list will work in any weather condition because they don't depend on lighter fluid or flammable materials. However, you also need dry tinder. If it's wet, local wood might not be the best place to find tinder. Bringing dryer lint and keeping it dry can be a good option.

Fire starter FAQ

Q: How do firestarters work?

Some simply require that you scrape the ferro rod to send a shower of sparks into your tinder. Other fire starters require you to scrape a bit of magnesium off of the mag stick into your tinder and then light the tinder with sparks from a flint. A key skill is learning how to stack and prepare tinder for sparks to get the best result.

Q: What is the safest fire starter?

All fire starters are safe if you use them as directed. If you’re careless about where you direct the waterfall of white-hot sparks, someone may get hurt. Regardless of which fire-starting tool you use, it all comes down to being mindful of what you’re doing. The sparks from a ferro rod can burn hot — up to 5,500°F. So, make sure to take the proper precautions before starting a fire.

Q: Is there an age limit to buy and use a fire starter?

No. But for practical purposes, you probably don’t want your eight-year-old using a device that sends out sparks at 5,500°F unless they've been trained or are doing so under adult supervision.

Q: Do fire starters expire?

Pretty much all of the fire-starting tools on this list will never expire. But they can run out. BIC lighters will last for about 1,000 uses and many of the fire-starting options on this list will last from 3,000-20,000 uses.

Sources:

1. Survival Fire Starters - Alderleaf Wilderness College
2. How To Use A Fire Starter - WikiHow

What’s better than a Sunday morning, a nice cup of coffee, and a beautiful sunrise? Watching the sunrise out of a tent with a great cup of coffee can lay the foundation for a successful outdoor adventure.

But there’s nothing worse than taking that first, much-anticipated sip of coffee, only to feel like spitting it out because it’s too bitter, or even worse, grainy. Do your coffee the right way with one of the best camping coffee makers.

The options below are durable, easy to use and pack, and most importantly, they make great coffee. Whether you’re looking for a pour-over coffee maker, French press, percolator, or a simple drip option, these are the best models for camping and backpacking.

The Best Camping Coffee Maker

Best coffee for backpacking: Starbucks Via

• Single-serve or bulk instant coffee
• Can mix hot, cold, or even into meals
• Saves time and weight

Specifications:

• Brand: Starbucks
• Weight: 9.91 Ounces

Pros

• Weighs almost nothing
• Takes up almost no space in a pack
• Instant
• No mess
• Affordable
• Easy to adjust the strength

Cons

• The coffee is OK, but not great
• Single-serve packages make waste

Ok, we know this is going to make the coffee snobs scoff. But we spend a whole lot of time in the backcountry with big miles to cover and sometimes you just need some hot coffee and caffeine to get going. And when weight matters, modern instant coffee is hard to beat. Shoot, you can even mix it directly into your oatmeal or drink it cold if you really need to hustle along. We dropped this in as the first choice for a reason: Many folks use it as a top choice. It's also readily available at almost any grocery store and you can buy it either in individual packets or big tins. The tins are great and cost about $10 for 30 cups.

See the Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee on Amazon

See the Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee on Walmart

Best coffee grinder: VSSL Java Manual Hand Coffee Grinder

• Made from aircraft-grade aluminum
• 50 adjustable grind settings
• Stainless steel burrs
• Carabiner lid

Specifications:

• Brand: VSSL
• Model: 01-122-00
• Weight: 1.2lbs

Pros

• Great for top-notch coffee on camping trips
• Compact and easy to take anywhere
• Easy to use, quick grinding
• Durable

Cons

• Does not actually brew coffee

While this product doesn’t actively brew coffee, it’s still a popular option. The VSSL Java is a manual coffee grinder that is the perfect size to pair with a camping coffee maker or portable coffee station. Pop in coffee beans, set the desired consistency of your grind, and crank away. Our editor has used this for coffee, dried herbs, and grasses she has foraged. It has done a great job every time. The grind is fast and smooth and there’s never any catching.

This survival coffee maker is outfitted with stainless steel burrs and 50 unique grind settings for truly artisanal coffee. It’s also super-easy to pack thanks to its compact size and carabiner that allows you to clip it to your pack or anywhere else.

See the VSSL Java Manual Hand Coffee Grinder on Amazon

See the VSSL Java Manual Hand Coffee Grinder on VSSL

Best backpacking coffee maker: Sea To Summit X Brew Collapseable Drip Coffee Maker

• Silicone and nylon construction
• Removable stainless steel mesh filter
• Makes up to two cups of coffee
• Folds flat

Specifications:

• Brand: Sea to Summit
• Model‎: 101-32
• Weight: 0.12kg

Pros

• Pretty easy to clean
• Lightweight
• Compact

Cons

• Hard to make multiple cups of coffee

This is one of my absolute favorite camping coffee makers. Especially when space is at a premium, such as when backpacking, this coffee maker really shines. But I also use it as my go-to coffee maker in my van, where space also really matters. It’s made out of durable nylon and food-grade silicone and it collapses to pack flat.

This pour-over kit includes a stainless steel mesh filter that is easily removable (and re-insertable) for washing. To clean while camping, just rinse it out, although it is hard to get 100% clean while camping — I don’t mind a few leftover grounds. Even easier, just bring a paper filter and throw it away once you’re done brewing your morning coffee.

It fits on wide camping mugs and bottles and holds up to two cups of liquid. This is one of the best backpacking coffee makers on our list, but it works just as well for car camping or even just at home when you need a quick cup.

See the Sea To Summit X Brew Collapseable Drip Coffee Maker on Amazon

See the Sea To Summit X Brew Collapseable Drip Coffee Maker on Sea To Summit

See the Sea To Summit X Brew Collapseable Drip Coffee Maker on Dick’s Sporting Goods

Most durable coffee maker: Bialetti Venus 6-Cup Stainless Steel Espresso Maker

• Made of 18/10 polished stainless steel
• Ergonomic handle, lip-up top, and integrated spout
• Works with all stove types including gas, electric, and induction
• Makes 12oz of coffee

Specifications:

• Brand: Bialetti
• Model: 0007255
• Weight: 1.19lbs

Pros

• Brews fantastic coffee
• Durable, sleek design
• Suitable for all stove types

Cons

• Only one cup
• Bulkier than other options

Another one of my favorite coffee makers for camping, the Bialetti stovetop espresso maker is a classic.

My family always had one of these growing up, and when I left the house for college, I was given my own Bialetti as a gift. It wasn’t until years later that I realized how versatile it is for camping. Because it’s made out of three pieces of metal, it’s easy to clean. It isn’t the most packable, but it makes great coffee.

Because of its not-so-great packability, as well as only making one real cup of coffee (six espresso cups), I typically reach for one of my other camping coffee makers. But this great coffee maker still deserves a spot on this list.

The three-piece travel coffee maker includes space in the bottom to put water, a basket for the grounds, and an upper receptacle for the brewed coffee. Just fill it with water and grounds and put it on the stove on low heat until it starts to gurgle. Then enjoy a delicious cup of espresso with whatever add-ins you want.

See the Bialetti Venus 6-Cup Stainless Steel Espresso Maker on Amazon

See the Bialetti Venus 6-Cup Stainless Steel Espresso Maker on Walmart

Best camping percolator: Coleman Stainless Steel Percolator

• Makes up to 12 cups
• Made from stainless steel
• Corrosion-resistant

Specifications:

• Brand: Coleman
• Model: 2000016403
• Weight: 2.2lbs

Pros

• Makes lots of coffee for big groups
• Great tasting coffee
• Easy to clean all parts

Cons

• Challenging to use if you’ve never used a percolator

If you go camping with big groups of friends and family, you need to find a coffee maker that makes delicious coffee for everyone. This percolator from Coleman makes up to 12 cups of coffee — plenty for the whole crew. The stainless steel construction resists corrosion and is easy to clean.

To make coffee, you’ll need a coffee filter designed for a percolator or a normal coffee filter with a hole poked in it. Put water in the bottom of the percolator and then add in the base, tube, and basket with lid (all included). Add coffee to the basket on top of the filter (get your filter wet if it doesn’t want to stay down). Then put your coffee maker on a stove or campfire until it is boiling. Once boiling, lower the heat until it is done percolating. Enjoy perfectly brewed coffee in the great outdoors!

See the Coleman Stainless Steel Percolator on Amazon

See the Coleman Stainless Steel Percolator on Walmart

Best insulated coffee maker for one: Stanley Classic Travel Mug French Press

• Durable stainless steel press
• Vacuum insulated to keep drinks hot for four hours
• Leak-proof and packable design
• 16 oz capacity

Specifications:

• Brand: Stanley
• Model: 10-01855-013
• Weight: 1.2lbs

Pros

• Durable design that should last for years
• Doubles as a mug
• Keeps coffee warm

Cons

• Not the lightest coffee maker due to the double-wall insulation

If you love the taste of French-pressed coffee, then you will love this innovative, stylish coffee press from Stanley. The leak-proof design is ideal for campers, hikers, or daily commuters, and it will easily fit into a backpack. It’s perfect for a single cup of coffee and easy to use.

This mug is made from high-quality, durable, and rust-free stainless steel.  It is also fully dishwasher safe. The double-wall vacuum insulation keeps your coffee warm for hours. Just fill the mug with water and coffee, wait about 10 minutes, and then press with the included french press insert. Put the lid on, and caffeinate away!

See the Stanley Classic Travel Mug French Press on Amazon

See the Stanley Classic Travel Mug French Press on Walmart

See the Stanley Classic Travel Mug French Press on Stanley

Best camping espresso maker: Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker

• Patented and easy-to-use pumping system
• Works with all your favorite coffee grinds
• Heatsink design protects hands and keeps liquids hot
• 80ml capacity

Specifications:

• Brand: Wacaco
• Model: 2724571317685
• Weight: 11.8oz

Pros

• Small and portable
• Makes great coffee
• No batteries needed

Cons

• Lots of parts that could get lost

If you love espresso, then you will love the Nanopresso system from Wacaco –- no batteries necessary. This manual espresso machine works with any type of ground coffee to bring you unparalleled fresh espresso flavor even when you’re not at the coffee shop.

The patented pumping system can create up to 18 bars of extraction pressure with the help of your hands. Use the included scoop to add the perfect amount of coffee to the filter basket and tamp it down using the bottom of the scoop. Screw on the top, add boiling water, unlock the piston to start pumping, and build up pressure to extract your espresso. You can drink as is or add milk or water for your favorite coffee drink! The Nanopresso also includes a detachable cup on the bottom of the machine.

See the Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker on Amazon

Best insulated french press: Stanley Stay-Hot French Press

• 18/8 stainless steel construction
• Double-wall insulated French press
• Stays hot for up to four hours
• 48 oz capacity

Specifications:

• Brand: Stanley
• Model: 10-02888-007
• Weight: 3lbs

Pros

• Ideal for large groups
• Coffee stays hot or cold for a long time
• Easy to clean

Cons

• Heavy and bulky

Need to brew coffee for multiple people but also want it to stay hot for the whole morning? We all know a french press makes great coffee without a lot of effort, but most glass french presses get cold really quickly. And if you’re camping in cooler temps, a hot cup of coffee is key for starting your day right. So brew up a pot of french press coffee in this insulated french press from Stanley and expect hot coffee for up to four hours.

The two layers of 18/8 stainless steel keep your coffee warm or make cold brew coffee and it’ll stay cold for up to nine hours. Just put water and ground coffee into the french press, wait about five minutes, and then press the coffee with the mesh plunger.

See the Stanley Stay-Hot French Press on Amazon

See the Stanley Stay-Hot French Press on REI

See the Stanley Stay-Hot French Press on Stanley

Best single cup coffee maker: Primula Single Serve Camping Coffee Makers

• Portable pour-over coffee
• Compact and lightweight
• Reusable fine mesh filter
• Coffee strength is determined by the rate you pour hot water

Specifications:

• Brand: Primula
• Model: PCBR-0146
• Weight: 1.6oz

Pros

• Lightweight and small
• Easy and quick to use
• Affordable

Cons

• Only one cup of coffee

If it’s just you and you want something simple and lightweight, this Primula Brew Buddy tea-strainer-style coffee maker might be the perfect option. It’s cheap and easy to stash in your backpack.

Just stick the Brew Buddy on top of your coffee mug, add grounds, and then add water to make your coffee in as little as thirty seconds. The extra fine mesh filter keeps grounds out of your cup. When you’re done, just dump out the grounds and rinse. It’s also dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning when you get home from your camping trips.

See the Primula Single Serve Camping Coffee Maker on Amazon

See the Primula Single Serve Camping Coffee Maker on Walmart

Best ultralight coffee maker: GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip

• Ultralight pour-over coffee
• <0.5oz ultra-light design
• Sturdy and durable legs that clip onto a mug's rim
• Nesting design for storage

Specifications:

• Brand: GSI Outdoors
• Model: 79480
• Weight: 6.4oz

Pros

• Light and small, very portable
• Budget-friendly
• Makes good strong black coffee

Cons

• Only makes one cup at a time
• Doesn’t sit super well on a thick-walled mug (like a chunky ceramic mug)

GSI is known for lightweight and compact outdoor gear and they bring that mindset to the GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip coffee maker. The legs fold into the mesh filter, making it easy to pack. If you’re looking for something ultra-light, this might be the best camping coffee maker for you.

The plastic legs ensure stability by clipping onto your mug. The mesh filter allows your coffee to drip without the grounds getting through. Nothing ruins that last sip of coffee like grinds in the bottom!

Weighing less than half an ounce, the GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip is easy to take wherever you go.

See the GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip on Amazon

See the GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip on Amazon on Backcountry

See the GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip on REI

Best for large groups: Coleman Enamelware Percolator

• Crack-resistant coffee pot made of double-coated enamel
• Chip-proof and corrosion-resistant
• Extra-wide coffee percolator base for greater stability
• 14 cups capacity

Specifications:

• Brand: Coleman
• Model: 2000016405
• Weight: 2.4lbs

Pros

• Large capacity, perfect for bigger groups
• Makes excellent coffee
• Easy to clean

Cons

• Heavy and bulky
• Slightly challenging to learn how to use

If you’re looking to make coffee for a large group, this large camp coffee maker will do the trick. You can make up to 14 cups of great-tasting coffee while camping in this easy-to-use percolator. The double-coated enamel matches the old-school Coleman blue speckled cookware, so you can make a complete set.

This coffee maker comes with a wide base, tube, basket, and basket lid — everything you need. Just add ground coffee to the basket, water to the base, and set over a flame to brew quality coffee.

See the Coleman Enamelware Percolator on Amazon

See the Coleman Enamelware Percolator on Walmart

Best for K-Cups: Presto MyJo Single Cup Coffee Maker

• Compatibility with K-Cups
• Portable, lightweight, compact design
• Comes with a refillable MyJo cup
• Compatible with standard-sized coffee and travel mugs
• Heat-resistant, anti-slip, easy-grip silicone handle

Specifications:

• Brand: Presto
• Model: 2835
• Weight: 14.1oz

Pros

• Small, easily portable
• Quick and easy to use
• Refillable MyJo cup included

Cons

• Not great if you don’t already use K-cups

This little coffee maker is a nifty tool to use at home or while car camping. If you’re an avid Keurig user at home, it might be easiest to bring a few pods out camping. And with the Presto MyJo, you can do just that. Or you can use the included refillable MyJo cup to add whatever ground coffee you’re in the mood for.

Add your K-Cup to the base and boiling water to the top and then use the plunger to slowly press hot water through your K-Cup pod. Within a minute, you’ll have a silky smooth brew, practically instant coffee.

See the Presto MyJo Single Cup Coffee Maker on Amazon

See the Presto MyJo Single Cup Coffee Maker on Walmart

See the Presto MyJo Single Cup Coffee Maker on Wayfair

Best camping coffee press: AEROPRESS Original Coffee and Espresso Maker

• Uses rapid, total immersion brewing process
• Makes one to three cups in about a minute
• Can make hot or cold brew
• Filters included

Specifications:

• Brand: AeroPress
• Weight: 10oz

Pros

• Rich, smooth, and less bitter coffee
• Very quick brew time
• Pretty easy to clean

Cons

• Lots of pieces to keep track of

The Aeropress coffee maker is well-known and loved as an everyday coffee maker, but it turns out it’s also one of the best coffee makers for camping as well. It’s affordable, lightweight, and doesn’t need any electricity to brew good coffee. The downside is that it uses a lot of pieces, but if you just put it all into a gallon-sized bag, you’ll never have to worry about losing something. The Aeropress coffee maker makes one to three cups of coffee in one pressing.

The Aeropress Original uses a rapid immersion process that gets rid of the bitter coffee taste that comes with any brew method that leaves grounds in water for extended periods of time. You can also make a cold brew without any extra effort. The Aeropress Original comes with about 350 special filters which makes clean-up a breeze, or you can purchase a reusable metal mesh filter separately.

See the AEROPRESS Original Coffee and Espresso Maker on Amazon

See the AEROPRESS Original Coffee and Espresso Maker on Walmart

Why trust us

Coffee is necessary. It's the elixir of life and it keeps us all going. And exploring the great outdoors is no different — here, caffeine might be even more necessary.

When I'm camping, I'm typically waking up in the morning to go hiking or climbing. The first thing I need to get me out of bed and outside is a cup of joe. Whether I'm making a pot of french press coffee, easy Aeropress coffee, or quick pour-overs, my coffee makers are always one of the first things I pack for a camping trip.

I've tried out many different ways to make coffee while camping, from instant coffee (never what you want it to be) to specialty coffee. And while I may not be a coffee connoisseur at home, I've tried it all in the outdoors. I can tell you what works and what's better left at home.

Who this is for

If you like to spend your weekends in the great outdoors but are tired of dealing with the not-quite-right taste of instant coffee, this guide is for you. You can have the best-tasting coffee and spend your time outside — both are possible at the same time. The coffee makers we selected for this guide are portable, easy to use and make great coffee. You can use them while traveling, camping, or at home.

How we picked

We picked the best coffee makers by researching and from personal experience. I've used a lot of different coffee makers in my years of camping around the United States and abroad. I took that experience, talked to other friends who love camping and researched some of the newer coffee makers on the market. We tested coffee makers while backpacking, car camping, and at home.

How we tested

We tested these coffee makers while car camping around the country in an Astro van, tent camping in the deserts of Utah, backpacking in the Cascade mountains in Washington, and living out of a tent near a glacier in Alaska. We've tried all of the camping coffee options for you and made this list based on tested experience and research.

Features to look for in camping coffee makers

Brew strength

Whether you’re in need of a serious pick-me-up, or if you just want to have something hot to sip on, brew strength can drastically affect how much you enjoy your coffee. With many coffee makers, you can adjust how strong your coffee is by how much water and coffee grounds you put in. But some coffee makers use other technology to make your cup stronger or weaker.

Portability

It's important that your coffee maker is easy to bring along on the road. You're definitely not going to want to bring your 12-cup drip coffee maker on a backpacking trip. Other than how heavy it is, there's nowhere to plug it in!

Size and portability are important when choosing a coffee maker for camping. If you're camping out of your car, you may be able to get away with a heavier, bigger option, but for the best backpacking coffee maker, you definitely want the smallest, most packable option.

Cleanup

Easy cleanup, such as a mesh filter that can be easily cleaned, is an essential part of the ideal camping coffee maker. Paper coffee filters can be an easy option if you have access to trash, but if you're in the backcountry, you're going to want something that can be easily rinsed off without needing to dispose of a paper filter.

Durability

Your coffee maker should last for years, so durability is important. Many of the options on this list I have personally used for years and find to be incredibly durable, but make sure to check out reviews before purchasing to see other people's experiences over time.

Size

Space is often an issue when camping, so having a small and packable coffee maker is important. Some of the options on this list pack down smaller when they're not in use, while others are small to start out with. There are some that are bulkier that are better for using a van or RV for camping.

Material

What your coffee maker is made out of will impact durability, packability, and sometimes taste. Many of the options on this list are made from metal, silicone, plastic, or mesh. Material is definitely something to consider when purchasing a camping coffee maker.

How to brew the perfect coffee outdoors

Here we give you a few tips to brew the perfect cup every time.

French press

Never used a french press before? It’s one of the most simple ways to make coffee. Just fill up the press with hot water and coffee grounds and leave it alone for around five minutes. Then press down the filter to keep all of the grounds trapped in the bottom, and pour yourself a hot coffee!

Pour-over

This is about as straightforward as it gets — just fill your filter with grounds and pour hot water over the grounds. You need to find the optimal speed to pour over the grinds. Quickly enough to keep the grounds wet, but slowly enough that it’s only filling up the filter halfway and not overflowing.

Percolator

A percolator is a little different than some of the other types of coffee makers out there. You'll fill the base with water and then add the grounds to the basket above that. Then put it on low heat (keep the flames inside the bottom of the pot) and wait for the water to start running through the grounds. Wait until the coffee is dark to your taste before drinking.

Camping coffee maker FAQ

Q: How do you power a coffee maker while camping?

Ideally, you don't have to power it at all. Of course, if you have a generator or other source of power, you can always use that to power a standard drip coffee maker. But if you're in the wilderness without any electricity, you need something else. For example, Aeropress uses rapid immersion to brew the perfect cup of coffee, while Wacaco Nanopresso uses a pumping system.

Q: What grind size should I use?

This depends on what type of coffee maker you're using. If you're making espresso, grinding your coffee as small as possible is important. For french press coffee, a coarser grind size helps with extraction and keeps small grounds from getting through the mesh filter. For pour-over, choose a medium grind size.

Q: Is a french press, percolator, or pour-over better for camping?

All of these options are great for camping, and it all depends on your taste and how much space you have for storage. Pour-over makers tend to be the smallest and most packable, while a french press or a percolator tend to take up more space.

Q: Should I pre-rinse paper filters?

Without rinsing, paper filters can give a papery taste to your coffee. If your coffee blend is particularly light, you may notice this more. Coffee pros do rinse paper filters before using them for making pour-over coffee, so you can if you want. However, I've drank coffee with a paper filter for years without rinsing the filter and it tastes great to me.

Sources:

1. 1. Coffee Grind Size Chart: How Grind Size Affects Coffee Flavor - MasterClass
   2. How To Make The Perfect Cup Of Coffee - Jamie Oliver

There’s nothing quite like a steak or vegetable kebab under the stars. And there’s nothing like bringing a portable grill along on your next car camping trip.

But cooking over a campfire can be extremely inconsistent. And you can’t get the same flavor or vibe from a camp stove. Camping grills offer mouthwatering smokey flavor and even cooking, plus they’re portable and easy to use.

Before you go, check out our list of the best camping grills to take your outdoor meals to the next level.

Best charcoal portable grill: Biolite Firepit + Wood & Charcoal Burning Fire Pit

• Fire pit/grill combo with folding legs
• Charcoal or wood powered
• Four fan speeds control the flame
• Bluetooth integration
• Rechargeable via USB (or solar carry cover)

Pros

• Versatile two-in-one product with lots of accessories
• Designed to have no smoke in fire mode (with proper techniques)
• Easy Bluetooth control

Cons

• Expensive
• Hard to figure out at first

The Biolite Firepit+ is an awesome portable charcoal grill that doubles as a fire pit. The whole thing is easy to take with you on your next camping trip. Either carry it with the attached handles or pack everything into the canvas carry bag to carry over your shoulder. The whole unit is about the size of a large microwave, with adjustable legs, and the fire pit itself fits standard-size firewood. The coolest part about this firepit/grill combo is the rechargeable battery-powered fan that controls the heat of your grill/fire. Plus, you can charge your phone off the battery.

To turn the Biolite Firepit+ from fire pit to portable grill, just lift the metal grate up and hook it at the top of the fire pit. Then add charcoal and light, turning the fan to low. Slide the included grill grate across the top, and wait for the charcoal to create coals. Then adjust the heat by using the fan (higher equals more heat).

Add the Firepit griddle to cook anything that won’t fit on the rack. I found this portable camping grill great, but slightly challenging to learn how to use. It took a while to get it going, and it wasn’t the most convenient way to cook food. But if you’re looking for a multipurpose tool and a unique way to go about camp cooking, this is a great option.

See Biolite Firepit + Wood & Charcoal Burning Fire Pit on Amazon

See Biolite Firepit + Wood & Charcoal Burning Fire Pit on BioLite

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Best propane grill: Weber Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill

• Easy to use with disposable cylinders for liquid propane
• 8500 BTU of heat per 189in² cooking area
• Porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates
• Tabletop style
• Push-button ignition

Pros

• Compact enough to go wherever you do
• Easy and quick to get it super-hot
• Single burner gives even heat throughout the process

Cons

• Adapter hose for larger tanks requires an additional purchase
• Slightly harder to clean than other popular portable grills

If you prefer to cook with gas, the Weber Q1000 grill is one of the best portable propane camping grills. It starts with a push-button ignition, and the stainless steel burner produces 8500 BTU-per-hour to heat 189in² of cooking area. The porcelain enameled cast iron grate fits up to six burgers. The size and shape of this grill make it great for both camping and small spaces like apartments or patios.

The cast aluminum lid provides good heat retention. Use standard camping propane canisters, or buy an adapter hose to use with a larger propane tank. For an included thermometer in the hood, you’ll need to upgrade to a slightly more expensive version, the Q1200 (which we also review in this guide).

See Weber Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill on Amazon

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Best budget portable grill: Coleman Fold N’ Go Portable Grill

• 6,000 BTUs of heat across 105in² of grilling area
• Adjustable burner for precise temperature control
• Removable dishwasher-safe cooking surface
• Up to 3.5 hours on high on one 16.4oz propane cylinder

Pros

• Great value for money
• Small and highly portable
• Ideal for one to two people and small spaces

Cons

• Some reviewers have issues with the latch
• Some units seem to have an issue with a very sharp edge

If you’re just cooking for one or two, it could feel like a waste to lug around a larger grill on your camping trips, or even just waste space on a small patio or porch with a full-sized grill. This compact grill is the perfect size for a dinner for two (105in² of cooking space) and is also much cheaper than some of the more complex offerings on this list. It starts quickly with push-button ignition and the flame is adjustable. Reviewers say you rarely need to turn it up past medium to get a nice char on your burger.

Just close the lid and wait for your BBQ. Coleman says it should last up to 3.5 hours on one 16.4oz propane canister (not included).

It’s also easy to take with you and clean when you get home. The locking lid design allows you to carry it by the handle without everything falling out, although some reviewers have had issues with the manufacturer latch. However, an aftermarket latch seems to be much more secure if your unit has that issue. Plus, the removable grease tray and grate are dishwashable, making cleanup a breeze. Hands down, the best portable grill for folks on a budget.

See Coleman Fold N’ Go Portable Grill on Amazon

See Coleman Fold N’ Go Portable Grill on Bass Pro Shop

Best portable griddle: Royal Gourmet PD1202R Propane Gas Grill Griddle

• Eight-inch porcelain-enameled cooking surface
• 12,000 BTUs per 221in² griddle top
• Powered by 1lb propane bottles (not included)
• Grease collection tray
• Detachable griddle top

Pros

• Evenly distributed heat
• Large area for cooking
• Budget-friendly price

Cons

• Needs looking after carefully or it will rust
• The welds are not of the greatest quality

The Royal Gourmet PD1202R is a great way to take your outdoor cooking to the next level. The 221in² griddle allows you to cook more than your average grill. In the morning, have fun cooking pancakes and bacon on the porcelain enamel griddle, and then simply empty the stainless steel drip tray. In the evenings, cook eight patties at once for all your friends and family.

Powered by standard small propane bottles, it puts out an impressive 12,000 BTU of heat once you click the piezo ignition. The heat is distributed quickly and evenly, so you don’t end up with cool spots on the griddle. It also has a clever system for collecting the grease, so the washing up is minimized after you’ve eaten. If you’re serious about cooking delicious meals outdoors, this is one of the best camping grills on the market.

See Royal Gourmet PD1202R on Amazon

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Best stove/grill combo: Coleman Gas Camping Grill/Stove

• Two-in-one design, grill and stove
• 20,000 BTU output per 130in² grilling surface
• Two adjustable burners
• Powered by propane
• Wind-proof side panels

Pros

• Cooks multiple things at once
• Easy to cook in the wind
• Can use large propane canisters

Cons

• Not the most durable model
• Prone to rusting

The Coleman Gas Camping Grill/Stove is one of the most versatile camping grills on this list, as it doubles as a cookstove. It has a 130in² grilling area and a stove that can fit a 10in pan. Half the grill is covered with a grill grate, while the other half includes a standard burner. You can also buy a griddle plate that is interchangeable with the grill grate. However, unlike some grills on our list, you can’t close the lid on this one while you’re cooking like you can on a traditional model.

With 20,000 BTUs of cooking power, this portable grill is one of the most powerful we’ve featured. It’s powered by propane cylinders and you can control the heat using the two adjustable burners. Another feature we like is the wind-proof side panels. We all know that the weather can be unpredictable when you’re out camping, and these panels make it possible to cook when it’s windy.

See Coleman Gas Camping Grill/Stove on Amazon

See Coleman Gas Camping Grill/Stove on Coleman

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Best tabletop gas grill: Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill

• 5,500 BTU per 45in² cooktop space
• Ceramic coated grate
• Integrated lid lock
• Briefcase-style carrying handle
• Folding legs

Pros

• Compact, perfect for camping or small garden patios
• Excellent price with stylish design
• Lightweight (13.5lbs) for easy travel

Cons

• The lowest BTU rating on our list with only 5,500
• Not the most durable construction

This small tabletop grill is another gas-powered option from Cuisinart. It provides 5,500 British thermal units to heat a 145in² cooktop space. The twist to start ignition mimics those on most home gas stoves. That’s enough room for eight burgers, eight steaks, six to ten chicken breasts, or four pounds of fish, according to Cuisinart. So while it’s small, that’s plenty of room to cook for the family or a few friends while camping!

Weighing only 13.5lbs, this small grill is easy to carry or stow away in your storage space. Carry the grill briefcase-style and then let the folding legs snap out for stability on whatever surface you’re grilling on. All around, a great little gas grill and one of the best portable grills in this price range.

See Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill on Amazon

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Best temp-regulating camping grill: Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill

• 8,500 BTU per 189in² cook area
• One stainless steel burner
• Folding side tables
• Built-in lid thermometer
• Grease management system

Pros

• Powerful burner, cooks evenly
• Thermometer lets you cook with precision
• Side tables are perfect for preparing

Cons

There’s nothing like a cup of hot coffee on a cool morning, and hot drinks taste even better after a cozy night’s sleep in a tent. High-quality camping mugs are an often overlooked piece of camping equipment.

When you’re camping, you don’t really need a lot of dishes. One camping mug can serve morning coffee as easily as it holds an evening glass of wine or a backcountry cocktail. Just make sure to clean it out before the morning!

The best camping mugs

Editor’s choice: Klean Kanteen Camp Mug

• Dishwasher safe
• Double-wall vacuum insulation
• No sweat design prevents damp fingers and frostbite

Pros

• No-spill lid
• Keeps drinks warm/cold

Cons

• Doesn’t fit in cup holders

The Klean Kanteen Camp Mug is a favorite of our testing team. We love its eco-friendly construction, cute design, and excellent heat retention. This mug features an 18/8 stainless steel construction made with 90% post-consumer recycled steel. There is also a splash-proof lid to help retain heat and keep you from making a huge mess if you spill.

We also love the color and design options of this mug. Our tester owns the black mountain design but you can add additional flair with teal, silver, or white. One of our tester’s favorite features is that it’s so easy to clean. It’s quick to clean at camp and once your trip is over, it’s also dishwasher safe.

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Best collapsible camping mug: Sea to Summit X-Series Collapseable Silicone Coolgrip Camping Mug

• Collapsible 16oz mug
• Food-grade silicone with heat-protective fins
• Reinforced nylon rim
• Dishwasher and microwave safe

Pros

• Folds flat to save space
• Heat-protective fins protect your hands
• Doubles as a measuring cup

Cons

• Would be perfect if it had a lid

This unique camping mug is perfect for backpackers or anyone who needs to save space. I have loved having the Sea to Summit Collapsible camp mug as a staple in my van for car camping because there never seems to be enough space for all the dishes and cooking gear. It also includes measurements so it can double as a measuring cup, which is perfect when trying to cook rice or pancakes in the van.

The coolest thing about this 16oz camping mug is that Sea to Summit designed it with Cool Grip — heat-protective fins that reduce surface temperature and heat transfer. In plain English, that means you can touch the sides without getting burned, even when there’s boiling water or coffee inside. Plus, the textured outside makes it easier to hold onto.

The whole cup folds completely flat when you’re done using it. It’s even microwave-safe. Couple this camp mug with my favorite camping coffee maker, the Sea to Summit X-Brew Collapsible Drip Coffee Maker, and you’ll be ready for a backcountry adventure.

See Sea to Summit X-Series Collapseable Coolgrip Camping Mug on Amazon

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Best overall camping mug: YETI Rambler Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug

• Dishwasher safe
• Double-wall vacuum insulation
• No sweat design prevents damp fingers and frostbite

Pros

• No-spill Lid
• Keeps drinks warm/cold

Cons

• Doesn’t fit in cup holders

The YETI Rambler Mug is a classic for a reason. YETI is well known for making high-quality products for keeping drinks piping hot and food cold, from their coolers to their insulated mugs. This mug is made out of kitchen-grade stainless steel with double-wall vacuum insulation to keep your cold drinks cold and your hot drinks hot. The steel is puncture and rust-resistant, so it won’t get beat up while living in your camp kitchen. The no-sweat design keeps condensation from gathering on the outside of the mug, keeping your hands comfortable even in cold temperatures.

The wide opening of this mug makes it a useful bowl as well. Eat oatmeal or soup out of it and bring one less dish to deal with. However, the wide opening also makes it more likely to get cold quickly, which is where the MagSlider lid comes in. YETI’s MagSlider lid design is one of the best parts of their camping mugs, it helps your coffee stay hot longer and keeps it from spilling. This spill-resistant lid uses a magnet to provide a smooth sliding closure and is even removable or replaceable with other colored magnets.

See YETI Rambler Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug on Amazon

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Best backpacking mug: GSI Infinity Backpacker Camping Mug

• Weighs 3.5oz
• Insulated
• Collapsible Handle

Pros

• Lightweight
• Multi-use
• Easy to clean

Cons

• Some reviewers experienced durability issues

GSI Outdoors has been making high-quality camp gear for decades and the GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker mug is one of their top products for a reason. Weighing just 3.5oz but holding 17.5oz, this mug provides a unique way to keep your drinks hot without the weight and bulk of double-walled insulation. The cup is made out of non-leaching polypropylene and includes a cloth-wrapped neoprene sleeve for insulation. It can double as a measuring cup as it includes measuring lines on the inner cup.

The spill-resistant lid features a sealable spout to add insulation and keep your liquid contents from spilling or gathering dust and debris on the trail. The sturdy mesh handle is easy to grab and stows when not in use. Plus, the size of this camping mug is perfect for slipping into the mesh side pocket of your backpack.

See GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug on Amazon

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Best camping cook set: Stanley Camp 24oz. Cook Set

• Locking handle
• Rust-resistant and BPA-free
• Dishwasher safe
• Lifetime warranty

Pros

• Excellent value cook set
• The cups are insulated
• Lightweight, compact, and backpack friendly

Cons

• Tall and narrow so it can be wobbly when used on a mini camp stove

Looking for an all-in-one purchase for your camp kitchen? This Stanley mug and pot kit comes with a pot, lid, and two cups that all stack together for storage. It’s the perfect option to slip into a backpack for a multi-day backcountry hike or keep stowed away in your car camping kit to be ready to hit the road at a moment’s notice. The 10 oz plastic camping mugs are BPA free and insulated, ideal for hot beverages.

The mugs hold 10oz each and the pot holds 24oz, perfect for making coffee for the family or boiling water for pasta. The lid design includes a vent for letting steam escape or straining water. The pot also features a locking handle, which stows away when in storage but locks into place for security while in use.

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See Stanley Camp 24oz. Cook Set on Stanley

Most versatile mug: MiiR Camp Cup

• Press on lid
• Medical grade stainless steel
• Double wall insulation

Pros

• Great ergonomic handle
• Lightweight
• Durable stainless steel

Cons

• Some issues with rusting/paint chipping

MiiR’s stainless steel camping mugs are an excellent option for anyone looking for an insulated mug with a great ergonomic grip. The powder coating gives this mug a great texture and since it comes in a variety of colors, there’s a mug for anyone’s style. I’ve used this mug while camping but it’s also versatile enough for the office and around the house. It’s a good size (12oz) for your morning coffee and it is easy to clean.

The sipping lid on the MiiR camp cup is designed to help maintain temperature along with the double-wall vacuum insulation. It’s also safe to wash in the upper rack of a dishwasher. The lid is BPA-free and presses on to help prevent spills. MiiR also offers a limited lifetime warranty for any defects.

See MiiR Camp Cup on Amazon

See MiiR Camp Cup on MiiR

Best classic camp mug: Coleman Enamel Camping Mug

• Enamel mug
• Lightweight
• Classic design

Pros

• Can reheat over camp stove
• Won’t break if dropped
• Affordable

Cons

• Some users had issues with the enamel chipping

If you’re looking for a classic option that will last you for a lifetime and you don’t care about an insulated mug, this Coleman enamel mug is great. I’ve used similar Coleman enamel products while camping and they’re always reliable.

These iconic mugs are lightweight and durable. While it might not keep your coffee warm for hours, you can easily use this mug to reheat your coffee on your camp stove when it gets cold. This camping mug holds 12oz of liquid and is so affordable that you might as well buy one for the whole family.

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Best camping mugs for couples: Better For Your Branded Couples Camping Mugs

• Choose your own color
• Insulated
• Set of two mugs

Pros

• Durable
• Comfortable handle
• Insulated

Cons

• Hard water leaves a dirty sheen on the outside of the mug

Heading out on a camping trip with your partner? You’ll be able to enjoy your morning coffee with this matching set of stainless steel mugs, storing over 13.5oz of liquid each. Differentiate the two mugs by choosing one color each from a variety of color options (Rose/Teal, Purple/Orange, Blue/Pink). But make sure to soak it in vinegar and water to get rid of the metallic taste before using it the first time.

The double wall insulation on this mug keeps your drinks warm, although it doesn’t come with a lid.

You could throw these stainless steel camping mugs against a brick wall, and they won’t break, unlike traditional porcelain mugs.

See Better For Your Branded Couples Camping Mugs on Amazon

Best titanium camping mug: FinessCity Titanium Camping Mug

• Titanium
• Foldable handle
• Measuring marks

Pros

• Lightweight
• Durable
• Minimalistic

Cons

• Walls get hot
• Expensive

Titanium mugs are well-loved in the camping world. They are lightweight and durable, and these Titanium camping mugs from FinessCity are no different.

They come in two sizes (400ml and 600ml), and you can choose to include a lid.

The handle includes a hinge that allows you to fold it away when not in use. However, the handle is necessary when you have a hot beverage since the thin titanium walls do get quite hot. This mug also includes measuring marks to ensure you’re adding the right amount of water to your freeze-dried meal. The titanium material means no gross metallic taste from the get-go, and it even comes with a cloth case.

See FinessCity Titanium Camping Mug on Amazon

Most aesthetic camp mug: Gentleman’s Hardwear Sportsmans Camping Mug

• Enamel mug
• Fun graphics

Pros

• Lightweight
• Aesthetic

Cons

• Not insulated

Striving for that perfect Instagramable camp aesthetic? This cute enamel mug will add that little touch to your camp scene. This camp cup is made out of cold-rolled lightweight steel with an enamel coating to keep it comfortable to the touch and durable enough for any adventure. Choose from “The Adventure Begins,” “Hit the Road,” or “The Outdoors is Calling” designs.

This camp mug will hold either hot or cold drinks and is just as good for an evening whiskey as it is for morning coffee. The enamel coating is easy to clean but not suitable for dishwashers. The outside of the camp cup does get hot, but on a cold day, there’s nothing like holding a hot mug in your hands — without bulky insulation getting in the way.

See Gentleman’s Hardwear Sportsmans Camping Mug on Amazon

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Best camping mug that fits in car cupholders: RTIC Coffee Mug

• Double-wall vacuum insulation
• Flip top lid
• Tall narrow design

Pros

• Fits in car cupholders
• Great as a camp cup or travel mug

Cons

• Some issues with the lid screwing on properly

RTIC’s coffee mug works just as well as a camp mug as it does for bringing coffee to work. The tall and thin design with a handle near the top of the mug means it fits well in car cup holders. It also includes a spill-proof lid that clicks closed for security. The vacuum-insulated stainless steel mug includes a no-sweat exterior so you don’t have to worry about your ice water accumulating on the outside and needing a coaster.

RTIC claims that this 16oz stainless steel mug will hold ice for up to 24 hours and provide heat retention for hot drinks as well. This camping mug comes in a variety of color options.

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Best insulated camping mug: Hydro Flask 12 oz Travel Coffee Mug

• TempShield double wall vacuum insulated mug
• 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel
• Press-in closeable lid
• Hydro Flask logo

Pros

• Insulation helps retain heat for hours
• Multiple size options
• Lots of colors

Cons

• Not as insulated as a fully closed Hydro Flask bottle

No matter where your next adventure takes you, make sure you go fully prepared with this awesome Hydro Flask camping coffee mug. Hydro Flask makes this mug with TempShield double-wall vacuum insulation technology designed by Hydro Flask to keep your drinks at the perfect temperature for longer. Cold beverages remain cold and hot liquids remain hot for hours.

The 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel ensures no weird aftertaste or unwanted flavor is added to your drink and can withstand all outdoor activities! The anti-slip BPA-free grip on the outside of the coffee mug and the handle make it easy to hold without two hands. Plus, the press-in lid is carefully designed to prevent spills, with a closeable sipping opening.

If that’s not enough, these camping coffee mugs come in a range of colors and sizes all with the Hydro Flask logo, so you can enjoy your favorite beverages in a functional and stylish coffee mug!

See Hydro Flask 12 oz Travel Coffee Mug on Amazon

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Why trust us

This writer splits her time between living in Southwest Colorado and living out of a van, camping around the Western United States. That means she needs an excellent camp kitchen while not taking up too much space. Sometimes she ditches the van and heads into the backcountry, requiring slightly different equipment. As much as you might love your insulated Hydro Flask camping mug, it's not going to be the choice to carry 20 miles into the backcountry. So you can trust us to know what you will need for different camp scenarios.

Who this is for

If you like to camp, hike, or backpack and need kitchenware to accompany you on your adventures, this guide to the best camping mugs is for you. Camping mugs are also useful as travel mugs for the person who really just wants to feel like they're drinking out of a real mug, not an awkward travel mug.

Whether you're always on the move and need gear to last a lifetime, or you're an avid weekend warrior, there's a great camping mug out there for you. This guide to the best camping mugs has all the options, from lightweight backcountry mugs to hefty camping mugs that will keep your drink hot for up to six hours.

How we picked

We wanted to provide a variety of mugs in this guide. This guide includes everything from foldable silicone models to stainless steel vacuum-insulated mugs for all-day ice.

We're all about high quality, so you can get rid of that old, beat-up plastic camping mug and move onto something that will last you for years to come. We picked the best camping mug options on this list through personal camping experience, reading reviews, and talking to friends.

How we tested

We tested these camping mugs while traveling and camping across the United States, from the red rock deserts of Utah to the North Cascades in Washington. We have tent-camped, van-camped, camped in the backcountry, and taken drinks to work. The best camping mug changes depending on the environment, so we included all of these options in this list. We've sipped coffee or tea just about every morning, no matter where we're located, so having our favorite mug at hand is important.

Features to look for in camping mugs

Lid 

Most of the best camping mug options come with a lid. If you want your coffee to stay hot for longer and are worried about spills, finding a camp cup with a lid will be important. And if you do buy one without a lid, it's possible to buy a lid separately if you do decide you can't live without it.

Insulation 

Some of the best camping mug options are insulated, which will keep your drinks hot or cold for sometimes six hours or more. Insulation can be accomplished with a cozy sleeve or double-wall vacuum-insulated stainless steel. Single-wall mugs will typically be uninsulated but can be lighter, if that is important. If an insulated mug is important to you, we have several of the best-insulated mug options included in this guide.

BPA, BPS, and BPF

Maybe you've heard of BPA, but have you heard of BPS (Bisphenol S) or BPF (Bisphenol F)? These compounds are replacing BPA in plastic manufacturing. And they may all have a negative impact on human hormones. However, all of the best cups for camping are free of these chemical compounds, as most are made of stainless steel or materials other than plastic. But if this is important to you in your camping mug decision, make sure to check with the manufacturer to ensure your product is free of these chemical compounds.

Weight

When camping, easy storage and weight can be a big factor, especially while backpacking or packing for a small space. Some of the best camping cups on our list are lightweight, while others would not be a good choice if you're looking for the lightest weight camp cup on the market. If weight is a factor, make sure to check with the manufacturer to compare the exact weight of the camp cup.

Material 

What is your camping mug made out of? While some might prefer stainless steel, others might be happy with metal or a ceramic coating, others might be looking for titanium. This guide includes a variety of materials, including all of the above.

Design 

Are looks important to you? Aesthetics definitely matter when choosing a camp mug, but so does shape. If you want your mug to fit in most cup holders, you aren't going to choose a short, fat mug. Color options are also important. Some of the mugs on our list come with more design options, including size, shape, color, and graphics. Others are only available in one style or color.

Aviator sunglasses were invented in the 1930s when WWI pilots realized that they needed to protect their eyes while flying. Manufacturer Bausch & Lomb made teardrop-shaped glasses to fully protect the pilot‘s eyes. In the 50s, celebrities started wearing classic aviator sunglasses, and Ray Ban started advertising the iconic style that still exists today.

But after Tom Cruise wore aviator sunglasses in Top Gun, they really started to take off. The classic design has changed little over the years. They look good on just about any shaped face.

Check out this list of the best aviator sunglasses for men and women.

The best aviator sunglasses

Editor’s pick: Tifosi Optics Shwae Aviator Sunglasses

• 100% UV protection
• Non-polarized lenses
• No-slip rubber nose pieces
• Shatterproof lenses

Pros

• Stay put
• Comfortable
• Affordable
• Don’t pull long hair

Cons

• The frame is somewhat flexible

I have a smaller-sized head and have always had difficulty finding sunglasses that looked good on my face. My biggest issue with the most popular aviator sunglasses is the nose pieces. I wear my hair up in a bun or ponytail and loose nose pieces pull on my hair when I put my sunglasses on the top of my head.

The very first thing I noticed about these aviator-style sunglasses was that the nose pieces were connected! They still look like the classic aviator sunglasses nose pieces but they are connected to the frame instead of wiggling loose. Because of this, these are some of the best aviator sunglasses for people with long hair. The nose pads are made out of hydrophilic rubber, which is comfortable and stays put even while sweating. The sunglasses are very secure and don’t move around even during activity.

The frame is made out of lightweight metal and the lenses are polycarbonate with 100% UV protection. Plus, they come in a variety of frame and lens colors. And the best part? They’re affordable.

See the Tifosi Optics Shwae Aviator Sunglasses on Amazon

See the Tifosi Optics Shwae Aviator Sunglasses on Tifosi Optics

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Best overall aviator sunglasses: Ray-Ban Classic Aviator Sunglasses

• Multiple sizes and color options
• 100% UV protection
• Non-polarized or polarized lenses

Pros

• Timeless style
• High-quality aviator sunglasses

Cons

• Expensive

Our best overall pick comes from the undisputed king of sunglasses: Ray-Ban. Known worldwide and often imitated, the Ray-Ban Aviator Classic brings a quality that is challenging to replicate. They are a great addition to your wardrobe — the timeless style assures that they won’t go out of fashion anytime soon. Channel your inner Tom Cruise with these iconic shades.

The Ray Ban Aviator Classic sunglasses are constructed with a metal frame and crystal lenses. They come in multiple-size frames, so you can pick the size that works best for your face. They also have many color options, including classic gold frames and green lenses. You can also get the same aviator sunglasses with polarized lenses. Ray-Ban’s reputation precedes them and the Ray-Ban Aviator Classic sunglasses are unrivaled in quality.

See the Ray-Ban Classic Aviator Sunglasses on Amazon

See the Ray-Ban Classic Aviator Sunglasses on Ray-Ban

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Best designer aviator sunglasses: Versace Men's VE2199

• Medusa charms on the frames
• Plastic frame
• Non polarized lenses

Pros

• Unique
• Stylish

Cons

• Some reviewers had issues with durability

If you want your aviator sunglasses to make a statement, this pair of Versace sunglasses could be the right choice. This unique style departs from most aviators’ classic metal frames, but they keep the aviator’s sunglass shape and brow bar. If you’re looking for designer sunglasses with a badass style, these Versace shades fill the gap.

Made in Italy, they come with a strong plastic frame, 100% UV protection composite lenses, and a protective case.

See the Versace Men's VE2199 Sunglasses on Amazon

See the Versace Men's VE2199 Sunglasses on Sunglass Hut

Best modern aviator sunglasses: AX Armani Exchange Men's Ax2012s Aviator Sunglasses

• Metal frame
• Plastic lenses
• Polarized lens option

Pros

• Affordable
• A modern twist on the aviator style

Cons

• Some complaints about feeling cheap

Sold at a great price, these non-mirrored, non-polarized sunglasses offer a modern interpretation of the classic aviator style. The frames are slightly angular compared to the typical round teardrop shape. The metal frame and plastic lenses come in various colors and include 100% UV protection.

They come with a case and cleaning cloth to ensure they stay well-protected. Designed to wear year-round, this design plays on a timeless style that can be snapped up affordably.

See the AX Armani Exchange Men's Ax2012s Aviator Sunglasses on Amazon

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Best aviator sunglasses for hiking: Ray-Ban Outdoorsman 3030 Aviator Sunglasses

• Crystal lenses
• Wraparound ear pieces
• Enhanced brow bar

Pros

• Secure
• Durable

Cons

• Heavy

An enhanced version of the original Ray Ban aviator classic sunglasses, the Outdoorsman adds even more security and unique features. The wraparound ear pieces add extra security and adjust to your head. The wire temples and enhanced brow bar give you the old-fashioned, timeless style. The nose pads are also adjustable to provide a more secure fit.

The crystal lenses block 100% UV light and provide great visibility. The hinges move smoothly and are durable. These Ray-Ban aviators come with a gold frame and green lenses.

See the Ray-Ban Outdoorsman 3030 on Amazon

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Best carbon fiber aviator sunglasses: BOSS by Hugo Boss Men’s Aviator Sunglasses

• 100% UV protection
• Carbon fiber frame
• Prescription lens compatible
• Case included

Pros

• Stylish
• Durable

Cons

• Some complaints about being heavy on the nose

Lightweight and high quality, these carbon fiber shades give a different twist on classic aviator styling. The frame is made of carbon fiber for strength, while rubber at the temples adds comfort. A brow bar gives these glasses a “Top Gun” look with a slight modern upgrade.

The black non-polarized lenses are made of scratch-resistant plastic. Plus, they offer 100% UV protection to protect your eyes. The BOSS by Hugo Boss aviator sunglasses are also easy to convert to prescription lenses, so you can keep that classic aviator style even if your eyesight isn’t as good as it used to be.

See the BOSS by Hugo Boss Men’s Aviator Sunglasses on Amazon

Best plastic aviator sunglasses: Carrera Safari65 Sunglasses

• Polarized or non-polarized lenses
• Gradient lenses available
• Case included
• UV protection

Pros

• High quality
• Stylish

Cons

• Large frame doesn’t fit smaller faces

These sporty-looking Carrera Safari aviators are great for everyday wear or special occasions. This remastered version of Carrera’s classic aviator style brings a unique look that come at a lower price point compared to other aviators on this list.

Choose from non-polarized, polarized, or gradient lenses. Various frame colors are also available. The oversized frame is made of lightweight Optyl and features Carrera’s iconic logo front and center, surrounded by the brow bar. A case is also included to keep your new shades safe.

See the Carrera Safari65 Sunglasses on Amazon

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Best military aviator sunglasses: J+S Premium Military Style Classic Aviator Sunglasses

• Polarized lenses
• Multiple size options

Pros

• Affordable
• High quality for the price
• Flexible for large faces

Cons

• Some quality variability

If you hate worrying about ruining your expensive pair of aviators and just want something cheap that gets the job done, these J+S aviator sunglasses might be the perfect option. They feature a metal frame and scratch-resistant polarized lenses. They provide the Top Gun look without breaking the bank.

Choose from Medium (58mm) or Large (62mm) to find the right size for your face. Plus, they come with various color and mirrored lens options.

These aviators include UV400 protection and adjustable nose pads for comfort. They also come with a case to prevent them from getting damaged.

See the J+S Premium Military Style Classic Aviator Sunglasses on Amazon

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Best aviator sunglasses for women: Maui Jim Baby Beach Aviator Sunglasses

• Polarized lenses
• Titanium frame
• Smaller frame size

Pros

• Durable
• Good for small faces

Cons

• Not great for large faces

If you’re looking for high-end sunglasses that will last a lifetime, you’ve got to consider Maui Jim. The lightweight titanium frame is one of the best materials you can find for frames and keeps its shape even after years of use. Unlike some cheap metal frames on the market, this pair of sunglasses is durable and comfortable. Designed for smaller faces, the Baby Beach Aviator Sunglasses fit most women’s faces better than some of the larger aviator-style shades on this list.

Maui Jim is known for making the best aviator sunglasses for bright light. The lenses use PolarizedPlus2 lens technology. Multiple lens color options enhance the colors you see, and reduce glare. They also include an anti-reflective coating that protects from reflected light and glare, plus a hydrophobic treatment that repels water and grease. They are even shatter and scratch-resistant.

See the Maui Jim Baby Beach Aviator Sunglasses on Amazon

See the Maui Jim Baby Beach Aviator Sunglasses on Maui Jim

See the Maui Jim Baby Beach Aviator Sunglasses on Sunglass Hut

Best men’s aviator sunglasses: Ray-Ban Rb4125 Cats 5000 Aviator Sunglasses

• Crystal gradient lenses
• Plastic frame
• Attached nose pads

Pros

• Don’t pull long hair
• Stylish

Cons

• Some reviewers did not receive what they expected

The Ray-Ban Cats 5000 Aviator Sunglasses are another great option for folks with long hair who are tired of nose pads pulling their hair every time they put sunglasses on the top of their head.

The tortoise-shell thick-rimmed frame and yellow-tinted lenses give them a timeless look — although they also come in various other colorways. Being Ray-Bans, they’re as high quality as they look. The frame is made from thick plastic and the gradient lenses are made from crystal, are scratch-resistant, and provide 100% UV protection.

See the Ray-Ban Rb4125 Cats 5000 on Amazon

See the Ray-Ban Rb4125 Cats 5000 on Sunglass Hut

See the Ray-Ban Rb4125 Cats 5000 on Ray-Ban

Best affordable aviator sunglasses: LUENX Aviator Sunglasses

• Polarized lenses
• UV400 protection
• Metal frame

Pros

• Affordable
• Lightweight
• Comfortable

Cons

• No anti-reflective coating on the inside

The LUENX Aviator Sunglasses are a more affordable pair of shades. They’re still high-quality and stylish but cost less than $20. When recommending budget sunglasses, we look for UV protection and a high-quality frame. These aviators have both. They offer polarized lenses with UV400 protection, which means your eyes are 100% protected from UV rays. And the metal frame shouldn’t fall apart easily.

These have flexible spring hinges up to 15°, making them a good fit for someone with a larger-than-average head. Plus, the metal-cored nose pads are adjustable for a more comfortable fit. The lightweight design means that you won’t get a headache after wearing them for hours.

See the LUENX Aviator Sunglasses on Amazon

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Best budget aviator sunglasses: MERRY'S Men's Polarized Driving Sunglasses

• 100% UVA/UVB protection
• Includes case
• Metal frame with spring hinges

Pros

• Affordable
• Polarized
• Flex to fit different-sized heads

Cons

• Some reports of UV coating flaking over time

Another budget option, these Merry’s polarized aviators come in a vast variety of lens colors so that you can have a different pair of shades for every outfit. These aviators offer an antioxidant metal frame with a spring hinge, allowing them to flex to fit various head sizes. They also feature polarized lenses that reduce glare and annoying reflections as well as provide UV400 protection, all for less than $20.

We also like that they come with a case, pouch, and cleaning cloth. These classic aviator sunglasses are affordable and worth trying out if you’re looking for a casual pair of shades for day-to-day life.

See the MERRY'S Men's Polarized Driving Sunglasses on Amazon

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Best pilot sunglasses: American Optical Original Pilot

• Metal frames
• Glass or nylon lenses
• Polarized options

Pros

• High quality
• Reliable

Cons

• Expensive

The American Optical Original Pilot sunglasses have been made since the 50s and are a favorite among military pilots. These classic aviator sunglasses are made in the U.S., plus American Optical used to have the American Air force and NASA contracts. The American Optical Original Pilot sunglasses have even been worn to the moon. The quality is what you would expect from glasses that must stand up to all sorts of conditions. The delicate metal frame and classic aviator styling look good on any gender and face shape.

Choose from AOLite Nylon or Skymaster glass lenses, with polarized options for each. The glass lenses offer superior clarity and scratch resistance, while the nylon lenses are extremely lightweight and impact resistant. You can also choose lens colors and frame options, including gold frames. You can wear the same shades worn by astronauts!

See the American Optical Original Pilot on Amazon

See the American Optical Original Pilot on American Optical

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Why trust us

I have to say, first, that I've never been a huge fan of aviator sunglasses. The classic aviator style never looked great on my smaller head, and the loose nose pads always pulled my hair if I put them on my head. I say this to give you background and context for this review. As someone who has never been an aviator fanatic, I am in a great position to give a reasonably objective perspective. On that note, I've shared my opinions, as well as the facts gathered from the manufacturers, to give you a good idea of some of the best aviators on the market.

Who this is for

If you're looking for a pair of aviators but are getting overwhelmed by the number of options, you've come to the right place. You may be asking yourself, is it worth spending money on high-end brands (sometimes), or do you need polarized lenses (again, sometimes)? This guide will help you separate the truth from the noise and let you pick from the most popular aviator sunglasses.

How we picked

We picked the shades on this list by researching the best aviator sunglasses on the market and reading into what makes them great or worthwhile. Whether you're looking for the same shades worn to the moon or the same shades worn by Tom Cruise in Top Gun, you'll find it all on this list.

How we tested

We tested aviators while driving across multiple states, hiking, heading out to dinner, and hanging out around camp. We were surprised by how well some aviators (not specifically known as sporty sunglasses) performed even when we started to get sweaty. We wanted to ensure that the aviators we tested performed in lots of various conditions and didn't let us down when we most needed protection.

The history of the aviator sunglasses

First developed in the 1930s for the Air Force, aviator sunglasses are arguably the first and most popular commercial sunglasses style. The first company to design them was Bausch and Lomb, which created them to replace the cumbersome and inconvenient goggles previously worn by military pilots.

This, unsurprisingly, is where the term ‘aviator’ comes from and why they are sometimes synonymous with pilot sunglasses. It was not until after World War II that they became popular with the general public.

They were designed to cover as much of the face as possible while still being comfortable to wear when soaring high above the earth. Early designs were recognizable by the teardrop shape and dark, frequently mirrored lenses, which were ideal for pilots.

The public was first exposed to aviators through celebrities such as Marlon Brando in The Wild One in 1951. This trend continued into the 80s when Tom Cruise and Top Gun immortalized the design forever and established them as a fashion accessory instead of merely something functional.

Like the success of certain sports teams, music trends, and politics, fashion is cyclical, and while some things might drop out of public consciousness at some point, it only takes one person to bring them back. Aviators are no different. The enduring appeal of aviators has made them recognized as a fashion staple, and it would be surprising if they went out of fashion completely.

They might not be remembered for serving their original purpose anymore (like the floppy disk icon or saying "hang up the phone"), but aviator sunglasses possess such a timeless, badass style that they will be welcomed and accepted with essentially any outfit for any occasion. The aviator is a safe bet if you are ever unsure about which sunglasses to buy for the summer.

Features to look for in aviator sunglasses

Frame material

Most popular aviator sunglasses have metal frames. However, some aviators on this list vary from the classic aviator styling (think thin gold frames). Plastic frames have become more popular with more modern aviators. Look for acetate (an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional plastic) or polycarbonate frames if you want plastic frames.

Polarization

Choosing whether or not you want polarization depends on what you will use the aviators for. If you want to reduce glare and reflections, choose polarized. This is incredibly helpful if you spend a lot of time on the water, snow, or driving, where reflections can be distracting and dangerous. If you're looking for other styles of polarized sunglasses, check out our guide to the best polarized sunglasses.

UV protection

The most important part of any pair of shades is to protect your eyes from harmful rays. Whether you're set on Ray Ban Aviator Classic sunglasses or are looking for a cheap pair of aviators to get the job done, make sure that your sunglasses protect from 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays. Unless, of course, you're just looking for blue-light aviators!

Aviator sunglasses FAQ

Q: What face shape can wear aviators?

Aviators look good on most face shapes, but not all. If you have an oval, heart, or square face, aviators will probably look good on you. Make sure you get the right size aviators for your face, especially if you have a particularly large or small face. The best way to find out whether a specific style of aviator sunglasses will look good on your face is to try them on and see. Some websites provide a way to try on new shades via video so you can get the picture without ordering.

Q: Why do aviators have a bar on top?

The bar on top of aviator sunglasses is to keep sweat or debris from falling into your eyes. This was particularly necessary given the history of aviator sunglasses — they were originally designed for pilots in World War I.

Q: Can you wear aviators to the beach?

You can definitely wear aviator sunglasses to the beach! These classic shades look good just about everywhere. However, wearing them in the water will depend on what your shades are made out of, some materials won't be happy if they are submerged in salt water.

Q: Why are the lenses often green?

The original aviators featured gold frames and green lenses for a reason. Green lenses block out blue light, which is incredibly important for a pilot flying above the clouds. Green lenses also help reduce glare. This color lens is so ubiquitous with aviators that it's been given its own name — G15 because they only let 15% of light in. The Ray Ban Aviator Classic Sunglasses still come in this original colorway. So if you're looking for the most classic aviator style, go for the green lenses and gold frames.

Sources:

1. The Enduring Appeal Of Aviator Sunglasses - BBC Culture

At the end of July, 29-year-old David Leduc of  Belgium soloed two big routes in the Dolomites.

One, the 1,600m Spigolo Nord, is a classic arete that climbs Mount Agnar in Italy's Belluno Province. He climbed the other, the Diedro Casarotto-Radin on Spiz di Lagunaz, two days later.

The Longest Route in the Dolomites

On the Spigolo Nord, Leduc spent about 3.5 hours soloing the arete, which rises strikingly from the San Lucano Valley. It was first climbed in 1932 and is the longest route in the Dolomites. Almost 80 years later, it remains a proud Dolomites classic, with a UIAA grading of VI-/V+, V (YDS 5.9). The grade V rating should take an average party several days. Leduc floated up it in half an afternoon, solo.

Leduc seemingly found that perfect alpine flow on this aesthetic ridge. "It was a delightful lightness to ascend this endless ridge, gallop down the hill, hitchhike to the valley and be at the terrace enjoying a beer in the early afternoon," he told PlanetMountain.

The ridge carves its way up the skyline, leaving the climber to follow a moderate limestone line into the sky with a healthy dose of exposure.

A Dihedral to the Sky

Two days later, Leduc headed out again, this time to climb the strikingly wide corner of the Diedro Casarotto-Radin on Spiz di Lagunaz. The route mounts part of Pale di San Lucano, a group of peaks across the valley from his first objective. His route featured 750m with a difficulty of VI+, A1 or VII+ (YDS 5.10 A1 or 5.11).

Leduc self-belayed the vertical pitches of the route and completed the 20+ pitch route in 11 hours. The whole outing required two days, because of the challenging nature and length of the approach and descent. The bivy also became stressful with unforeseen storms.

"Everything went well, apart from the bivy on Spiz de Lagunaz,"
 said Leduc. "I had no shelter. Contrary to the weather forecast, there were two showers during the night, and...flashes of lightning kept me from sleeping because I was afraid that my dream would turn into a nightmare. Fortunately, the real thunderstorm didn't start until the next day, just after I had finished all the rappels and started walking back down.

The double solo ascent was a notable accomplishment for the Belgian climber, who previously established a 1,500m route in the same area in 2019. The quiet San Lucano valley features stunningly high walls and beautiful climbing off the beaten path in the Dolomites.