August 28th, 2026
Home > Gear Reviews > Water Sports

Our verdict

The NRS Neutron is the brand’s most whitewater capable packraft. The open-decked self-bailer comes with both a cargo fly and thigh straps, making it multi-day whitewater-adventure ready from the start. 

At 38” wide, it’s the widest whitewater packraft we’ve tested and the width added some stability without sacrificing too much turning and handling, making it ideal for newer to intermediate packrafters to take on some bigger Class III rapids. The Neutron uses a proprietary valve with a locking nozzle that makes it incompatible with other companies’ inflation bags or pumps without a special attachment.

Our testers used this on a multi-day, variable Class II trip in Chiapas, Mexico, where they encountered lower-flow, creeky, winding waters up to big full Class II drops. Our testers there noted: “I kinda got attached to this packraft, even though it's the fattest I’ve used. Once you get into a rhythm, it’s easy to maneuver. It handles a rough ride in creeky waters and rocks like a champ!”

We also tested it at the Clear Creek Whitewater Park in Golden, CO, and at Gross Reservoir in Boulder County, CO. It bounced through the rapids in the whitewater park with relative ease in early summer conditions (2025) and tracked well for a wider whitewater boat—better than the Kokopeli Nirvana (37” wide), but not as well as the Alpacka Mage (34” wide). On the flatwater at Gross Reservoir the boat handled well and cut through light afternoon winds with relative ease. Given its width, we don’t think it’s ideal for tight, narrow Class III-IV rapids but on wider creek and river rapids it handles well.

We think this packraft is a solid option for novice to intermediate packrafters who aren’t afraid to take on some whitewater, and for those who don’t mind using the proprietary nozzle or buying extra attachments. It’s not as whitewater capable as the Alpacka Raft Mage or Gnarwhal, but it did track better than the Kokopelli Nirvana in testing. It’s also not as versatile as the Alpacka Raft Classic or the Caribou, which pack small and light enough to use for bikepacking and backpacking. However, it’s great that it comes with the thigh straps and cargo fly as standard, and it’s a little less expensive than the Gnarwhal.

This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission without costing you an extra cent. This allows us to create reader-supported objective gear reviews. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

NRS Neutron Packraft Specifications

• Price: $1,445–1,495

• Type: Whitewater and adventure

• Best uses: Whitewater, multiday river adventures

• Base weight: 8.9 lbs (Standard), 9.5 lbs (XL)

• Weight with accessories: 11.86 lbs (standard),12.67 lbs (XL). Fully rigged with thigh straps, inflatable seat, backbend and throw rope.

• Packed size: 22” X 11”

• Weight capacity: 375 lbs (Standard), 400 lbs (XL)

• Hull material: 210D Nylon, dual TPU coated (PVC free)

• Floor material and denier: 840D Nylon, dual TPU coated (PVC free)

• Floor type: Self bailing

• Deck configuration: Open with included cargo fly

• Spray deck / self-bailing: Self-bailing

• Thigh or knee straps: Included

• Seat: Inflatable

• Seat back: Vertex Pro Backband with Throw Rope

• Cargo fly / TiZip: Included

• Bow grab loops: None (can set up a rope through the attachment points)

• Stern grab loops: None (can set up a rope through the attachment points)

• D-rings or gear attachment points: 6 (4 bow, 2 stern)

• Whitewater rating: Class III (not from manufacturer)

• Inflation method: Airbag or inflation blow tube

• Valve type: Leafield - D7M

• Sizes available: Standard and XL

• Made in: Imported (not specified from where)

• Repair kit included: Yes

Best for

• Intermediate to novice packrafters 

• Packrafters looking for a packraft that can handle up to Class III whitewater and multiday adventures

Comparison table

What we liked

• Tracks well 

• Easy to steer for a wide packraft

• Though wide, moves super well in fast Class II

• Thigh straps easy to adjust

What could be better

• Proprietary inflation nozzle—if you lose the inflation bag or don’t have an adapter in the field, it becomes difficult to inflate. This is especially higher-stakes if you are traveling on a longer river trip with no bailout points with someone else in a raft with a different valve. Bring all your valve attachments and repair kit!

• Width makes narrow, difficult rapids harder

How we tested

Our testers, both intermediate packrafters, took the NRS Neutron on multiple outings. We used it on a multiday (7-day) trip in Chiapas, Mexico on Class II and low Class III rapids. The water levels on the river were much lower than usual, making many of the narrower Class II sections fast and creeky (and sometimes dicey). That trip included portages around boulderfields where we carried the packraft. We also tested it at the Clear Creek Whitewater Park in Golden, CO and on flatwater at Gross Reservoir in Boulder County, CO. 

Under normal early summer conditions at the Clear Creek Whitewater Park, it was easy to line up, pick through, and turn into and out of rapids. On the flatwater and light, windy chop at Gross Reservoir the boat handled well as we circumnavigated the coast and crossed through the middle of one the fingers of the reservoir. 

We didn’t test it in a bikerafting or backpacking scenario, as its packed weight (11.86 pounds) and size (22 x 11”) would take up most of the space in a pack and be unwieldy on a bike’s handlebars or frame.

We tested the NRS Neutron alongside other packrafts in our Best Packrafts guide. If you’re looking to get into packrafting, check out our How to Get Started Packrafting video.

Performance in the field

On-water handling and maneuverability

Despite its width, the NRS Neutron tracked and turned well while cruising across the reservoir. It didn’t feel like it wandered between paddlestrokes and responded easily to input from the paddle. The only drawback was the width meant we had to extend our paddle strokes a little farther to reach water without hitting the side of the boat.

Stability

With a wide, stable bottom, the boat handled moving water and rapids well. It doesn’t respond quite as fast as a narrower boat, however. We found when paddling this in narrow Class III rapids, you definitely need to pick and commit to your lines with confidence

Whitewater performance

Though we didn’t test this in big Class III rapids it handled all the rapids we did test it in well. We wouldn’t recommend it for Class IV and above rapids. The self-bailing worked well in rapids we rode.

Inflation and setup

With the included inflation bag, the Neutron inflated well. We also bought an adapter to use with an electric pump, which worked well. Inflation took a few minutes with the bag and a little less with the electric pump.

Packability and carrying

Packed up into a 22” x 11” roll weighing about 12 pounds, it’s a little unwieldy to carry on a bike’s handlebars or in a backpacking pack. However, it’s light enough that it’s easy to portage with it fully loaded and inflated (up to a mile or so). For instance, we had no problem portaging with this slightly bigger raft (and a dry bag and paddle) over large, slippery and wet rocky terrain. When rolled up you could carry it on the bottom of a backpack, but if stored in the backpack, you’re not going to have too much room for much else. 

Cargo and gear storage

With bow and stern loops, it’s easy to rig up storage on the bow or attach a PFD when floating on flatwater, but we didn’t carry significant weight on the bow. The centered TiZip SuperSeal Comfort zipper on the stern made shoving dry bags into the hull easy. We didn’t notice the gear sliding around inside very much.

Comfort

In our testing we felt pretty comfortable with the back band and inflatable floor. The thigh straps are among the most comfortable and easiest to adjust that we’ve tested and added control to the boat. However, they didn’t provide as secure an interface with the boat as the 3 and 4-point thigh straps from Alpacka Raft. 

Durability

After multiple days on rivers and creeks we didn’t notice any damage to the hull or floor. The material looks and feels much like the materials NRS uses on their larger rafts, which last for decades, with proper care. 

Features

The NRS Neutron only has four options, blue or orange and standard size or XL (we tested the standard size). The standard is 7’10” long and the XL is 8’ 3”long. The cargo fly, thigh straps, back band and inflatable seat come with the boat. 

Inflatable floor

The full-length, inflatable floor adds some stiffness to the packraft, helping it handle rapids. It also allows paddlers to adjust how they want to sit in the boat for their comfort and to maximize their reach with the paddle. Shorter paddlers may want to sit higher and farther forward than taller paddlers, for instance. The packraft doesn’t have a separate inflatable seat that sits atop the floor. 

Back pad

On the NRS Neutron the backpad is adjustable to accommodate different sizes of paddlers and can move forward and backwards. Though not very adjustable vertically, it did a good job of supporting paddlers of different heights. 

Thigh straps

We tested an early version of the boat with two-point thigh straps. They worked well when needed, but now the boat comes with three-point, padded thigh straps for adjustments up and down as well as towards the calves and upper thighs. 

Cargo fly

Located in the middle, behind the paddler, the cargo fly offers access to both sides of the hull, making it easy to stow gear in drybags inside the hull and increasing stability when floating.

Stern and bow handles

The boat doesn’t come with either, but with attachment points at the bow and stern, it was easy to tie rope in to make ersatz handles. 

Included blow bag

The blow bag is easy to attach to the proprietary nozzles, and the pack raft does come with a blow tube in case you lose the blow bag. 

Repair kit

A small repair kit is included. It has patches for the hull and lube for the TiZip cargo fly. However, our repair kit came in a standard ziplock and we’d recommend putting it in a more burly, waterproof bag to keep it safe.

TiZip Zippers 

The NRS Neutron’s TiZip cargo fly comes with a one-year warranty, while the packraft carries a three-year retail warranty. 

Sustainability

NRS doesn’t discuss specific sustainable practices on their site. You can find their 2023 Impact Report and mission statements on their site, but we didn’t find anything more recent.

Should you buy the NRS Neutron packraft?

Buy if:

• You’re looking for a multiday packraft that can handle moderate whitewater (Class III)

• You’re a novice or intermediate packrafter that wants to run whitewater but aren’t ready for an advanced boat

• You need a boat in a hurry and can get one locally at a shop

Skip if:

• You need a small sized packraft

• You want a versatile packraft for backpacking and bikepacking

• Lightness and packability is the most important aspect for you

Where to buy the NRS Neutron packraft

The NRS Neutron Packraft is a popular gear item, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.

REI

Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.

NRS

You can sometimes find more options when purchasing directly from the manufacturer. Sometimes, purchasing directly from the retailer can make it easier if you need to make a warranty return due to a defect.

Advice on where to buy

In general for gear, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns, like REI. 

Similar packrafts

NRS Neutron vs Alpacka Raft Caribou 

Price: Starts at $995
Type: Lightwater
Best uses: Multiday flatwater trips up to Class II
Base weight (boat only): 4.5 to 4.9 lbs
Weight with accessories: 6 to 6.9 lbs
Packed size: 6 X 17”
Weight capacity: 390 lbs

The Alpacka Raft Classic was our overall favorite packraft for its versatility, and its successor, the Caribou, seems to follow suit. Both rafts are lighter than the NRS Neutron, pack smaller for backpacking and bikepacking, and are capable in lightwater (Class II, tops). The NRS Neutron is more capable and forgiving in rapids thanks to its wide base and design. 

If you’re primarily looking for a whitewater boat, the Neutron is a better choice for a pack raft, but if you’re looking for a boat of all trades, it’s still the Alpacka Classic, or its successor, the Caribou. The Caribou starts at $455 less than the Neutron and is offered with or without a cargo fly and as a sealed floor or a self-bailing floor.

NRS Neutron vs Alpacka Raft Gnarwhal

Price: Starts at $1550
Type: Lightwater
Best uses: Multiday trips and up to Class III-IV whitewater
Base weight (boat only): 5.5 to 6.5 lbs
Weight with accessories: 8.25 to 10.4 lbs
Packed size: 9 x 22”
Weight capacity: 370 pounds

Compared to the Alpacka Raft Gnarwhal, the Neutron is bigger, burlier and wider. That means it’s a little more forgiving going into bigger rapids and it’s also a little less easy to steer in rapids and flatwater. Still, it floats and responds well for its size. The Gnarwhal also packs down a little smaller at 9” X 22” compared to the 11” X 22” size of the Neutron. Fully kitted at 10.4 lbs in the Gnarwhal’s XL configuration  it’s still lighter than the fully kitted Standard option of the NRS, which weighs 12 lbs. The Gnarwhal also is offered in four sizes from Small to XL and multiple fabric weights for those who want a more durable or lightweight packraft. The Gnarwhal starts at about $100 more than the Neutron.

Neutron vs Kokopeli Nirvana

Price: Starts at $1,299
Type: Whitewater 
Best uses: Multi-day floats, up to Class IV
Base weight (boat only): 7.3 lbs
Weight with accessories: 9.2 lbs
Packed size: 14 x 10” 
Weight capacity: 300 lbs

The NRS Neutron handles better than the Kokopeli Nirvana that we tested. It tracks better and responds to paddle strokes better. That makes it more capable in rapids and on flatwater. The Nirvana starts at a lower price, $1,299, for a boat with a spray deck without a cargo fly (add $150) or thigh straps (add $80). Similarly equipped, the Nirvana starts at about $100 more than the NRS Neutron. The Nirvana is offered in self-bailing format as well, starting at $1,349. We’d recommend the Nirvana if you’re primarily looking for a packraft with a sprayskirt.

Why you should trust us / About the author

I first learned of packrafting around 2016. Since then I’ve used them to explore Colorado and have used them on multiple creeks, rivers, reservoirs and lakes. I’ve gone on daytrips and multiday trips—including classics like Ruby-Horsethief Canyon, and used them on self-guided and guided tours. I’ve also gone bikerafting, including with one of the pre-eminent pack rafters, Steve “Doom” Fassbinder. 

As one of the first reviewers for Treeline Review, starting in 2019, I’ve covered a lot of outdoor adventure gear across multiple activities, among them hiking, camping, climbing and mountain biking. I wrote Treeline Review’s initial packraft buying guide in 2022. 

Beyond my work with Treeline Review, I have authored multiple outdoor guidebooks. My most recent Falcon Guide, "Colorado’s Best Front Range Adventures: The Greatest Hiking, Climbing, Paddling and More From Denver to Colorado Springs and Fort Collins," arrived in Spring 2021. In it, I cover the region's best hiking, biking, climbing, and rafting. I’m also the author of Falcon Guide’s “Climbing Colorado's Fourteeners: From the Easiest Hikes to the Most Challenging Climbs” and edited Justin Lichter’s excellent guide to thru-hiking titled “Trail Tested: A Thru-Hiker's Guide To Ultralight Hiking And Backpacking.” This experience has helped me become a first-rate gearhead and product tester.

I have 20-plus years of exploring, hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, climbing, guiding, and playing in the wild. I worked with National Geographic and their mapping division in developing their Colorado 14ers Map Pack Bundle. I’ve written about hiking and climbing for Elevation Outdoors, including stories about Colorado 14ers and outdoor apps to boost adventures. 

In addition, I’ve written columns about ultralight hiking and gear for Backpacker, gear reviews for Treeline Review, Popular Mechanics, Bicycling, Popular Science, and other publications, including Elevation Outdoors, 5280, and more.

At Treeline Review, we strive to offer unbiased reviews to help you find the best product for the price. Treeline Review doesn’t accept sponsored content, native advertising, or paid reviews. I am not sponsored by any companies, nor are any of my family members sponsored by, employees of, or ambassadors of any of the companies in this review. 

Find more of Chris Meehan’s reviews on his Treeline Review author page.

August 28th, 2026
Home → Gear Reviews → Running

Our verdict

The Terignota Sendero shorts are an affordable pair of running shorts with a 360-degree pocket built into the three-inch waistband. These shorts are awesome because I can use them to carry everything I would normally put in a running belt. 

I tested the Sendero shorts on countless runs across Arizona, Utah, and Colorado in the winter, spring, and summer. I initially got these shorts because I heard they had great pockets, and they’re a great price. When I got my hands on a pair, they quickly became my go-to shorts for most runs, especially on 10-15 mile runs where you want to carry some fuel but don’t necessarily need to carry multiple water bottles in a running vest. I’ve worn these on desert trail runs in Arizona, canyon runs in Utah, and mountain runs in Colorado over distances ranging from 3 to 30 miles. 

These shorts excel in carrying capacity and comfort in warm weather. If you normally use a running belt, you’ll love these shorts. The integrated waistband pocket wraps around your entire waist and can hold any-sized smartphones, headphones, SPF lip balm, energy gels, water, a jacket, gloves, a bandana, and more. And they’re a crazy good deal.   

The biggest downside of these shorts is that they’re not always in stock. Sometimes Terignota doesn’t have all sizes available, and I’ve even seen them sold out completely. This isn’t surprising because the Senderos are high-quality running shorts being sold for a remarkably low price. 

Terignota Sendero Running Shorts

If you’re looking for a great deal on a pair of running shorts with integrated storage in the entire waistband, you should check out these shorts. They’re our favorite shorts with pockets in our Best Men’s Running Shorts guide, and you’ll likely leave your running belt at home more often once you get a pair.

This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission without costing you an extra cent. This allows us to create reader-supported objective gear reviews. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more why you can trust Treeline Review.

Terignota Sendero Running Shorts Specifications

• Price:$75

• Sizes: XS-XL (men’s and women’s)

• Inseam options: 5” (men’s), 3.5” (women’s)

• Fit: Standard split shorts

• Fabric: Outer shorts, 90% polyester / 10% elastane, Inner lining: 92% polyester / 8% elastane

• Weight: 4.6 oz (men’s medium)

• Liner: Yes 

• Pockets: 360-degree waistband pocket with openings at four points, zippered rear pocket

• Phone pocket: Yes

• Waistband: 3”

• Split: Yes

• Gusseted crotch: No

• Quick-dry: Yes

• Reflective elements: No

Comparison table

Best for

• Runners who typically run with a running belt

• Long runs on roads or trails

• Daily training runs 

• Pocket-heavy runners

• Hot weather running

What we liked

• Waistband pockets replace a running belt or vest

• Material is extremely breathable

• Easy to grab items from pockets

• Quick-drying, ultralight fabric

• Very affordable

What could be better

• Thin material may not be as durable

• Not always in stock

How we tested

I tested the Terignota Sendero shorts while running roads and trails in Arizona, Utah, and Colorado during the winter, spring, and summer. My running shorts supply was severely depleted, with my best pairs fading quickly after thousands of miles. Then I saw these $29 running shorts, so I decided to give them a shot. They quickly became my go-to shorts. I wore them all winter long, from short 5-mile road runs to longer 30+ mile trail runs. I ran dirt roads in the mountains and bushwacked through desert canyons. 

On every run, I carried a 6” Google Pixel 10, and often carried more in these shorts as well. I wore them with a La Sportiva Ultra Trail Vest on ultra-distance runs for extra storage, and used them to carry a 500mL soft flask of water, a smartphone, energy gels, SPF lip balm, and headphones on runs up to 15 miles. I wore them in temperatures ranging from 40 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.   

I wore them with the built-in liner, which never caused any discomfort or chafing, even on the hottest days. Eventually, I cut out that liner so I could wear them with mesh underwear. I’ve washed them countless times, and they haven’t lost any elasticity or started pilling.

I also tested these shorts alongside others in our Best Men’s Road Running Shorts and Best Men’s Trail Running Shorts guides.

Performance in the field

Fit and movement

The Terignota Sendero shorts are very comfortable and allow you to move in any way you need. The legs are wide enough to fit over any thighs, and the material is stretchy so it doesn’t catch on your leg or ride up as you’re climbing. The wider 2” waistband sits just on your waist and is comfortable against your skin. 

They’re made of soft, 90% polyester/10% elastane material. The brief liner is made of slightly less stretchy 92% polyester/8% elastane material. I tested these in men’s size medium, and I have relatively big thighs, and they never felt too tight. The fit is billowy with a split leg opening so they leave plenty of space for you to move. 

Liner performance

I typically cut the liner out of my running shorts so I can wear mesh boxer briefs. Before I did that with the Sendero shorts, I wore them with the liner for several runs. In that time, I found the liner to be comfortable. It never shifts over the course of a long run, and feels just as comfortable at mile 3 as at mile 20. The liner is made of breathable polyester mesh that feels soft and cotton-like. It doesn’t cause heat buildup, breathes well, and dries quickly when it gets wet. If it gets wet from your sweat, it doesn’t chafe, either. 

Waistband behavior

The waistband is very comfortable during runs if you’re used to wearing a running belt. If you’re not used to the feel of a running belt, these shorts might take some time to get used to. However, once you see how much you can fit into the waistband, you’ll be on board with the way it feels. 

The waistband is slightly taller than a typical running-short waistband. It’s not overly tight, nor is it too loose, so it is still comfortable despite being larger than average. There is also a drawstring, which I only ever use if I have water in the waistband. Otherwise, the elastic waistband is tight enough without tying the drawcord. 

Pocket usability

The Terignota Sendero shorts have very usable pockets integrated throughout the entire 3” waistband, which functions like a running belt. 

There is a zippered pocket in the back of the waistband to securely store your phone, and four separate segments with an opening along the top to store everything else you want to carry on a run. I’ve carried a 500mL soft flask with a filter, a windbreaker jacket, gloves, a buff, enough fuel for over three hours of running, lip balm, headphones, and my phone with these shorts. I have a Google Pixel 10 with a thin silicone case, and the phone easily fits in the zippered pocket, but it also fits anywhere else in the waistband you want to stash it. 

These pockets are the most usable of any running shorts I tested. Since they’re integrated into the waistband, the items in the pockets don’t bounce as they do with some pockets on other running shorts. And every pocket has a large opening at the top, which makes it easy to access anything in the pocket, even with gloves on.  

Breathability and heat management

The stretch mesh polyester fabric on the Sendero shorts is incredibly breathable. I’ve worn these shorts in 100-degree heat, and they’ve kept me comfortable. In hot temperatures, they don’t magically keep you cool, but they aren’t ever the thing that makes me feel like I’m going to overheat, either. These shorts don’t hold heat at all.  

They’re very breathable. Whenever there is a breeze, I can feel the wind blowing through the material. The integrated 360-degree waistband pocket lets you carry more stuff without wearing a running vest. And not wearing a running vest keeps you cooler in hot weather. 

Chafe prevention

After hundreds of hot, sweaty miles, the Sendero shorts haven’t caused any chafing. They have flatlock interior seams, a gusseted crotch, and a bonded hem rather than a sewn one. All of these details help prevent chafing. Even though the crotch gusset creates two seams along the inside of each thigh, those seams have never caused me any chafing. 

The integrated liner edges are soft and don’t cause uncomfortable rubbing. Before I cut the liner out of these shorts, I ran about 100 miles with no issues using the built-in liner. I only cut the liner out because I prefer to bring my own breathable, boxer-brief-style liner to my running shorts. 

Durability

The 90% polyester/10% elastane shell material used on the outside of the Sendero shorts is very durable. After heavy use over six months, these shorts are still going strong. 

I’ve worn these shorts for scrambling off-trail in the desert, and am quite shocked they aren’t ripped by now, honestly. They’ve been dragged over granite ledges, though cacti hiding in tall grass (ouch!), and slid along sandstone walls in canyons. The material looks thin, almost see-through, but it’s surprisingly durable. There are some snags in the fabric, but I’m not surprised; these shorts have been through a lot. 

Over half a year of use, I’ve washed them in a washing machine countless times, in sketchy laundromats with old machines and newer home washing machines. I typically wash them on a delicate cycle and dry them on low heat. They also hang dry very quickly. After washing and drying them, they don’t degrade. They’re still as stretchy as ever, and I haven’t noticed any pilling. 

Features

Built-in liner

The Terignota Sendero shorts have a built-in 92% polyester-8% elastane liner. This material is very soft and stretchy. It also has soft edges that don’t abrade or chafe your skin.

Elastic waistband with drawcord

The Sendero shorts have an elastic waistband and drawcord. The waistband is about 3” wide, which is much larger than the typical 1” waistband on most running shorts. This larger waistband has pockets integrated into it, which allows you to carry a lot while you run. The drawcord sits between the elastic waistband face fabric and the outer stretch material, so the knot doesn’t rub on your belly if you have it tied. 

Zippered phone pocket

The Sendero shorts have a zippered rear phone pocket. This pocket is large enough to easily fit a 6” Google Pixel 10 with a thick silicone case. You can also fit a phone anywhere in the 3”-thick waistband with 360-degree pockets. 

Stretch pockets

The Sendero shorts have stretch pockets that wrap around the entire waistband. These pockets are open on top, making it easy to grab a snack, your phone, water, or an extra layer while you run. 

Lightweight fabric

The Sendero shorts are made of lightweight fabric made with 90% polyester and 10% elastane. This fabric is very stretchy, durable, and breathable. 

Quick-dry material

The exterior fabric dries very quickly. After jumping a river to cool off, they’re dry within an hour in hot and dry climates. 

Gusseted crotch

They have a gusseted crotch, which adds durability and extra material. This crotch gusset, combined with the stretchy material, allows you to move in any way without feeling restricted. 

Split shorts design

They have a split on the outside of each leg. This further allows for freedom of movement and creates more ventilation. 

Reflective elements

They don’t have reflective elements, but you can easily carry a headlamp in the waistband pockets. 

Sustainability

Terignota does not share sustainability information on their website. However, you can read about their financial report on their website.

Should you buy the Terignota Sendero running shorts?

Buy if:

• You run long distances 

• You prefer a split short with stretch material to a wide, billowy fit

• You need a lot of pocket capacity in your shorts

• You prioritize comfort and performance but don’t want to pay a lot for it

Skip if:

• You prefer a different inseam length than the 5” inseam available  

• You don’t want a liner (unless you’re OK with getting out the scissors)

• You don’t care about pocket capacity

• You need more inclusive sizing

Where to buy the Terignota Sendero running shorts

Terignota

You can sometimes find more options when purchasing directly from the manufacturer. Sometimes, purchasing directly from the retailer can make it easier if you need to make a warranty return due to a defect.

Men's and Women's

Advice on where to buy

In general for apparel, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns. If your funds allow, you can buy two sizes and easily return one. Additionally, check reviews to see whether other users recommend sizing up or down. 

Similar running shorts

Terignota Sendero Shorts vs. Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts

Price: $89-95
Sizes: XS-XL
Inseam options: 
Fit: Regular
Liner: Yes
Pockets: 5
Phone pocket: No
Waistband: 1”
Reflective elements: Reflective logo

The Patagonia Strider Pro shorts are my long-time favorite trail running and backpacking shorts. They’re also the overall winner in our Best Men’sTrail Running shorts guide. The Strider Pro shorts have two stretch pockets on each hip that are large enough for a few energy gels in each one. The Strider Pro’s rear zippered pocket isn’t large enough for a smartphone, though. The Strider Pro also costs about $65 more than the Sendero shorts, though they come with Patagonia’s lifetime warranty and are made with recycled polyester made from plastic ocean waste. 

The Sendero shorts are a better option if you want a built-in running belt and don’t want to spend a lot on running shorts, but the Strider Pro shorts are a more sustainable option with great pockets.

Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts

Men's

Terignota Sendero vs. rabbit FKT Shorts

Price: $75
Sizes: S-XL
Inseam options: 
Fit: Regular
Liner: Yes
Pockets: 9
Phone pocket: Yes
Waistband: 1.5”
Reflective elements: No

The rabbit FKT Shorts are another pair of running shorts with excellent pockets. The FKT shorts are made with a thicker, stretchier material than the Sendero shorts. The FKT shorts take a different approach to carrying gear. They have two stretch pockets on each hip; the front-most of these pockets is large enough for a 500mL soft flask. They also have a rear zippered pocket big enough for any smartphone, and four more pockets on the interior lining. 

If you prefer your pockets scattered throughout the shorts, and not integrated into the waistband as they are on the Sendero shorts, we think the FKT shorts are worth considering. Learn more in our in-depth review of the rabbit FKT running shorts.

rabbit FKT Shorts

Terignota Sendero vs. Tracksmith Twilight Shorts

Price:
Sizes: 
Inseam options: 
Fit: Regular
Liner: Yes
Pockets: 
Phone pocket: 
Waistband: 1”
Reflective elements: No

The Tracksmith Twilight Shorts are made with a stretchy knit polyester that’s incredibly comfortable. The Twilight shorts don’t have as many pockets as the Sendero shorts, though they do have a usable rear phone pocket. Unlike the Sendero shorts, the Twilight shorts’ phone pocket is built into the inner liner. This makes it more difficult to access your phone mid-run, especially if the drawstring is tied tight, which you’ll want to do if you have a heavy phone in the pocket. But the phone feels super secure in the built-in liner pocket, and doesn’t bounce at all. Like most running shorts, the Twilight shorts cost significantly more than the Sendero shorts, too.

Tracksmith Twilight Shorts

Why you should trust us / About the author

Sam Schild is a thru-hiker, runner, cyclist, and mountain athlete based in a converted van across the American Southwest. He’s been a runner since childhood, when he ran five days a week as cross-training for soccer. As he grew older, he stopped playing team sports and focused on running and cycling. Sam wrote our Men’s Road Running Shorts guide and has tested loads of other running gear for Treeline Review.  

Sam regularly runs five days or more per week. He has completed countless ultra-distance, self-supported trail runs across the American Southwest. He has thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Appalachian Trail, Arizona Trail, Pacific Northwest Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, Hayduke Trail, and the Colorado Trail twice, always in running shorts.

You can read more about Sam on his author page, website, or Instagram.

August 27th, 2026
Home → Gear Reviews → Travel Gear

A regular backpack takes up a fixed amount of space in your suitcase or car, while a packable one folds down to a fraction of its expanded size or packs flat so it can fit inside a carry-on or hang off a belt loop until needed. The best packable backpack is one that you only need occasionally or as a backup to your regular pack. They are great for hikes, grocery runs, or a day of sightseeing. 

We tested each pack the way people use them, either stuffed into a suitcase, for a week-long trip, used on a full day of city walking with a water bottle and jacket inside, and with travel knickknacks from a trip. We even used one for a sightseeing trip in a new city. 

We compared packs to how small they pack down, how easily they compress, how comfortable the straps are, how much load they carry, and if they have a dedicated water pocket. We also looked at fabric and zipper durability, and value relative to price. It is important to note that the lighter and more compressible a pack is, the less structure and padding it has, so ultralight packability and comfortable carry don’t always go hand in hand.

The best overall pick is the Eagle Creek Packable backpack. It earned the top spot because it packed and unpacked faster than any other bag tested. The PU-coated nylon shrugged off water while over rapids during a fishing trip. The wide opening of the main pocket was convenient to use, and the structured shape kept it comfortable on a full day outdoors. Here's how it and the rest of the field stacked up.

This guide covers packable backpacks specifically, so if you are looking for daypacks or hardshell travel packs, check out our guides to the best adventure travel backpacks and best daypacks for hiking.

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Comparison table

The winners

Best overall packable backpack: Eagle Creek Packable Backpack

Price: $59
Capacity: 16 L
Empty weight: 5.7 oz 
Packs into own pocket: Yes
Fabric: 100% ocean-recycled 70D PU-coated nylon, made without PFAS
Water resistant: Yes
Waterproof: No
Laptop sleeve: No
Water bottle pockets: Yes
Sternum strap: Yes
Hip belt: No
Back panel: No
Shoulder straps: Breathable mesh
Carry-on compliant: Meets carry-on size standards for most/all major airlines
What we liked: Palm-sized packing, stretch side pockets, and breathable mesh shoulder straps for hot climates
What we didn't like: No structure for carrying rigid things and no back panel 

We tested the Eagle Creek Packable Backpack on a city trip that included a day of fishing, and it packed down small enough to live inside the suitcase until we needed it. It’s our best overall pick because it is compact yet functional for the size and carrying capacity. 

Unpacking and expanding took seconds, and it carried comfortably for a full day. The front pocket holds car keys, a hotel room card, and sunglasses. The inside sleeve fits a wallet and passport securely. The two stretch pockets can support a 16-oz bottle on one side and a 24-oz bottle on the other without spilling. The sternum strap is also adjustable so two people of different sizes can share a bag. Not all bags that we tested had all these features so the Eagle Creek Packable was our top pick. 

However, it's not a structured pack, so a camera and a boxy snack container can press against your back and get uncomfortable quickly. But when loaded with softer items, like a sun hoody or light sweater, it holds its shape. The inside sleeve also fits a tablet, so this can double as a light work bag for a coffee shop or a train ride.

The Packable Backpack is best suited for someone who wants a small daypack for short excursions and can be packed away in its own pocket when not in use. It is not suitable for long travel days or an overnight trip.

Best affordable packable backpack: Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

Price: $50
Capacity: 18 L
Empty weight: 5.3 oz
Packs into own pocket: Yes
Fabric: Bluesign-approved 100% recycled 40D high-tenacity nylon
Water resistant: Yes
Waterproof: No
Laptop sleeve: No
Water bottle pockets: Yes, dual stretch side pockets
Sternum strap: Yes, adjustable
Hip belt: No
Back panel: No
Shoulder straps: Padded mesh
Carry-on compliant: Meets carry-on size standards for most/all major airlines
What we liked: Packability, key clip and dual stretchable side pockets
What we didn’t like: No back panel

The Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack is our pick for best affordable packable backpack because for $50 you get a super lightweight, functional, packable backpack. It only weighs 5.3 oz (an ounce or so lighter than the average bag we tested) and is highly packable.

We took the Ultralight Stuff Pack on a day trip to a city and errands around town. When not in use, we folded it back up, packed it away in its own pocket, and clipped it to a sling bag using the key clip. We loaded the pack with a water bottle, rain jacket, camera, and some snacks, which weighed about 12 lbs. 

While there is no back panel, the padded mesh straps and sternum strap are comfortable to carry at this weight and don’t bunch or dig in. At 5.3 oz, the bag is unnoticeable as an extra bag for just-in-case situations and despite its light weight, we found it to be durable enough to carry a DSLR camera. 

This bag is best suited for compact travel due to its packable nature. It works best on short trips or for errands around town. It will not work well in situations where you need to carry a heavy load for an extended period of time.

Best packable backpack for travel: Osprey Daylite

Price: $70
Capacity: 13 L
Empty weight: 19.8 oz
Packs into own pocket: No
Fabric: Bluesign-approved 300D recycled polyester main body, PFC-free DWR coating, 600D recycled polyester lining
Water resistant: Yes 
Waterproof: No
Laptop sleeve: Yes, fits most 13" laptops or a tablet
Water bottle pockets: Yes, dual side mesh pockets, plus dual side compression straps to cinch a load down
Sternum strap: Yes
Hip belt: Yes, removable
Back panel: Mesh-covered die-cut foam back panel, built for ventilation
Shoulder straps: Spacer mesh harness with an integrated grab handle
Carry-on compliant: Meets carry-on size standards for most/all major airlines.
What we liked: Sternum strap and a removable hip belt, dual water bottle pockets, mesh back panel
What we didn't like: Not packable into its own pocket

We tested the Osprey Daylite on multiple trips for the past few years as a travel backpack. While it is not packable into its own pocket, it lies flat in a suitcase when not needed.

The front zippered pocket is deep for snacks, wallet, keys, and other essentials needed for travel. It even has two hidden pockets inside the front pocket to keep cash, cards, or phones. The internal pocket can store a 13” laptop or tablet for work or even a hydration bladder with a passthrough tab on the top of the bag. The padded mesh shoulder straps are comfortable to carry for full travel days as well as trail use. The grab handle is also designed to double as a luggage pass-through strap for attaching to rolling luggage, which is great for hands-free travel in crowded public transportation.

The downside to this pack is that it is not packable in its own pocket hence not suited for someone who is looking for a compact carrying bag. You will need to have a suitcase or a tote to store this away when not in use.

It is best suited for someone who needs a rigid back panel bag to carry a laptop or books and lots of pockets for organizing smaller items. It is not the best bag for compact, just-in-case, backup carry situations.  

Best lightweight packable backpack: Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Daypack 

Price: $70
Capacity: 22 L
Empty weight: 3.9 oz
Packs into own pocket: Yes, attached Ultra-Sil stuff sack with a small aluminum carabiner
Fabric: 30D Ultra-Sil siliconized high-tenacity Cordura nylon
Water resistant: Yes, but seams aren't sealed
Waterproof: Yes
Laptop sleeve: No
Water bottle pockets: No
Sternum strap: No
Hip belt: No
Back panel: No padding or structure
Shoulder straps: Reinforced, adjustable straps designed to resist bunching
Carry-on compliant: Yes
What we liked: Compact size, convenient carry with carabiner that is provided, surprisingly roomy for size
What we didn’t like: No structure, odd-fitting items like camera and bottle protrude, roll top design is not suitable for easy access, stuff sack is separate so can get lost easily (which we did during testing)

The Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Daypack is the lightest packable backpack we tested and has a roll-top closure like a dry bag. It’s waterproof and the Ultra-Sil 30D CORDURA Nylon fabric has a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it a durable option that can withstand the elements.

We tested the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry packable, ultralight daypack on a week-long trip to Germany that involved city tours, casual hiking, and a short run. 

We loaded it with a light jacket, a water bottle, and a camera. The bag performed flawlessly in terms of durability and comfort carry as an affordable packable backpack for city walks and a longer 5-mile hike. It was easy to open up and pack away when not in use. The bungee cords on the front panel are convenient to store items like a rain jacket or a hat.  

However, the bag doesn’t have a structured back panel, and the straps can dig in when loaded to its full capacity of 22 liters, especially with a heavy DSLR camera. The chords also started to bunch up a bit after a full day of a heavy load.

This option is best suited for situations where you want to travel light or don’t have much space to pack a regular daypack. It is also best for light loads like a jacket and a small bottle. It is not suitable for heavy gear or for extended carry. 

Best packable hiking backpack: Exped Summit Hike 15 Pack

Price: $90
Capacity: 15 L
Empty weight: 12.3 oz 
Packs into own pocket: No (but the similar Summit Lite does)
Fabric: Recycled 600D Oxford Cordura polyester, PU coated, recycled liner, 150D polyester, PU coated
Water resistant: Yes
Waterproof: No, but rain cover provided
Laptop sleeve: No
Water bottle pockets: Yes, two stretchy exterior pockets
Sternum strap: No
Hip belt: Yes, removable strap
Back panel: Lightly padded and an air mesh back for airflow
Shoulder straps: Padded, with stretch pockets built in
Carry-on compliant: Meets carry-on size standards for most/all major airlines
What we liked: Removable hip belt and air-mesh back panel, removable rain cover
What we didn’t like: No hydration pack compatibility or water hose port

While this structured daypack does not qualify as a packable bag, the 19.3 inches tall and 15-liter capacity of the Exped Summit Hike Pack make it ideal for a travel daypack.

We tested it on urban trails during hot summer days where the air mesh back pad and lightly padded back panel helped wick away sweat and keep our back cool. The loop chain in front is great for carrying foldable hiking poles or clipping small items using carabiners. The top load style makes for easy access, and the loop carry in the back can connect to a carry-on bag using a clip for hands-free travel. 

This pack is better suited for adventure travel involving shorter or less technical trails where you don’t need to carry multiple layers, spikes, helmets, and lots of snacks. If you are looking for reliable trail daypacks, check out our hiking daypacks guide.

Best packable backpack for day hikes from a base camp: Arc'teryx Heliad 15

Price: $80
Capacity: 15 L
Empty weight: 7.1 oz
Packs into own pocket: Yes
Fabric: 100-denier mini-ripstop Cordura nylon 6,6 with Dobby face, PFAS-free FC0 DWR water-repellent finish
Water resistant: Yes
Waterproof: No
Laptop sleeve: Internal pocket can fit 10” tablet
Water bottle pockets: No dedicated external bottle pocket, external stash pocket can be used for a water bladder instead
Sternum strap: No
Hip belt: No
Back panel: No
Shoulder straps: No
Carry-on compliant: Meets carry-on size standards for most/all major airlines
What we liked: Fits a hydration bladder in the dedicated stash pocket and a tablet up to 10" in the internal sleeve
What we didn’t like: No hip belt and no sternum strap

The Arc’teryx Heliad 15 is our pick for best packable backpack for day hikes from base camp because it offers a convenient carry for basic essentials like a light layer and a few snacks.

We took this as a backup option for our fishing trip, and it is a comfortable pack for simple day hikes when you really want to travel light and leave all the heavy gear back at base camp. It has less internal storage, no side pockets, no hip belt, and no padded back panel like Exped Summit Hike 15 Pack.  

This is not a technical pack and has only two pockets, so you might have some organizational challenges if you are carrying lots of small items like a headlamp, gloves, scarf, hat, and sunscreen. It offers a comfortable carry even though it lacks back padding but your back can get sweaty if you are in very hot and humid climates. Ideally, it will fit a light layer, a cap or hat, and some snacks for your hike or jaunt around town.

This pack does pack into its own pocket so can be carried in a larger bag, so it is best suited for short excursions around town or quick day hikes from base camp. 

Other packable backpacks we tested

Fjällräven Kanken Mini

Price: $85
Capacity: 7L
Empty weight: 7.8 oz
Packs into own pocket: No
Fabric: Shell: Vinylon F; lining: recycled 70D polyamide
Water resistant: Yes
Waterproof: No
Laptop sleeve: No
Water bottle pockets: Yes, but too small for most bottles
Sternum strap: No
Hip belt: No
Back panel: Yes 
Shoulder straps: Yes
Carry-on compliant: Meets carry-on size standards for most/all major airlines

We tested the Fjallraven Kanken Mini bag for its brand reputation and unique feature of a removable seat pad for back support when needed. During testing, we found that the specified 7-liter capacity was limiting as it didn't fit much, and the side pockets were too small to fit most reusable water bottles. They only worked for small plastic single-use bottles. However, this backpack works for kids or young adults with only a few things, like toys or snacks to pack for a short trip away.

What to look for in packable backpacks

Packed size and how it packs down

The goal of a packable backpack is that it can be put away when you don't need it, so pay attention to the size when packed and how easy that process is in practice. They typically range in 12-to 18-liter capacity. Based on our testing, we found 15 L packs to be the most versatile in terms of usability for day trips. 

Some bags stuff into their own front pocket with a single zip, which is ideal. Others require you to fold them a specific way or use a separate stuff sack that can get lost easily. 

Also check the packed dimensions against where you will store it, like the side pocket of a backpack, inside a jacket pocket, hooked to a sling bag, or inside a carry-on suitcase.

Weight relative to carry comfort

Lighter packable bags are better for quick errands around town or easy day hikes, but make sure the straps are comfortable and don’t bunch or snag when fully loaded. Lightweight bags are great for emergencies or days where you only want to bring along a travel water bottle and maybe an extra layer. Check for maximum weight versus intended load. If you know you'll regularly stuff it full, it's worth bringing a slightly heavier pack.

Back panel and shoulder strap quality

The back panel is typically the first thing that gets annoying on a long day, especially if the pack has thin, unpadded straps. Additionally, a flat back panel may work for a quick trip to a store or a market, but they are uncomfortable if there is any real weight added. Prioritize packs that have at least some mesh or foam padding in the back panel and straps if you want to use it daily rather than as an emergency fold-up.

Water resistance vs. waterproofness

Water-resistant fabric and coatings will handle light rain for a while, but will eventually let moisture through, especially at the seams. True waterproof construction involves taped seams and a water-blocking fabric, like polyurethane. But this adds weight and reduces packability, so if you need real protection from sustained rain, consider a separate rain cover or a dry bag insert to protect your belongings. Some brands like Osprey come with a rain cover while others require you to purchase it. Check out our Guide to Dry Bags for a complete list of options.

Pockets and organization

The number of pockets in a packable bag depends on its intended use. A single main compartment is fine for a spare layer or groceries. But if you're using it for a day of sightseeing or travel, a small pocket to separate your phone, wallet, or other essentials can be convenient for easy access. A water bottle pocket is also helpful, so you don’t have to open the bag every time you need hydration. 

Capacity and what it realistically fits

An 18–20-liter packable bag is a reasonable range for daily errands, a light layer, and some shopping, while anything smaller feels like an emergency-only bag. It's worth checking whether the bag holds its shape when full or sags and loses structure, affecting comfort and how items shift around inside. Also test how the bag feels when filled with odd-shaped items like a DSLR and other odd-shaped items.

Durability of fabric and zippers

Lightweight fabrics like ripstop nylon are the norm in packable bags because they fold small, but abrasion, snags, and small tears are possible over time. Zippers matter just as much as fabric, since cheap zippers can become a common failure point, especially after repeated folding and stuffing. Also, look for reinforced stitching at stress points like strap attachments.

Price and value

Packable backpacks range widely in price, and the cheapest options often compromise in strap comfort, zipper quality, or fabric durability. Mid-range bags from established outdoor brands offer the best balance of comfort and durability without unnecessary features. 

Types of packable backpacks explained

Ultralight stuff-sack packables

Ultralight packable backpacks are the smallest and lightest option, often folding into a pouch not much bigger than a small novel and weighing 5 to 7 oz. They're great as emergency bags, something you toss in a suitcase or purse and forget about until you need extra carrying capacity. 

The trade-off here is that the fabric is usually thin, there is no padding and minimal structure, so they can be uncomfortable for heavy weights. They are best as a backup option rather than a day bag. 

Travel packable daypacks 

Travel packable bags usually have 15 to 20-liter capacity and are great for a day of sightseeing or errands around town. They have more structure, pockets, and better straps than the ultralight ones. They can still pack down to a small size or fit into a suitcase when laid flat. These packs work best for travelers who want one bag that folds away when not in use but works for a full day out and about comfortably.

Packable hiking daypacks

Packable hiking day packs are built specifically for trail use, so they have back panels, hip belts, or sternum straps. They are made with heavier, more abrasion-resistant fabric than travel versions. These make sense if you want a hiking-capable bag on a trip with outdoor adventures, but when it isn't your main travel bag, these features become a hassle.

Packable waterproof backpacks 

Waterproof packable backpacks are generally dry bags with shoulder straps made for paddling or water-based activities. They use roll-top closures and welded seams, which add some weight and reduce how flat they fold. If real waterproofing matters for your use case, like kayaking or monsoon season travel, pair a basic packable bag with a separate dry bag or liner.

Packable running/fastpacking packs 

Packable running packs or fastpacks are designed for stability and security during movement rather than packed size. They have some load-bearing structure, chest straps, and secure bottle holders, so they may not fold nearly as small or weigh as little as ultralight stuff-sack packables. They're a niche pick, worth the investment if you are running or fastpacking regularly rather than just an errand bag. None of the bags we tested were packable running packs. Check out our Running Packs Guide for a full list of choices.

Choosing a packable backpack by use case

Travel secondary pack

If you're looking for a bag to fold into your suitcase and use for day trips or as an extra carry-on when you overshop, a travel packable daypack in the 15 to 20-liter range is a good choice. Hiking-grade padding or waterproofing may be overkill for a few hours of walking around a city. This is the most common use case for packable backpacks with the widest range of options. This works great for bikepackers or hostel-to-hostel backpackers who have main bike bags or a big backpack but want something for getting around town.

Summit or base camp day packs

If you're hiking to a base camp and want a smaller bag for a summit hike the next day, choose a packable hiking daypack rather than an ultralight stuff sack. Structure, back panel padding, and sternum strap matter for comfortable carry. Don't be tempted by the smallest, lightest packable bag, as they are not worth the discomfort of thin padding during a multi-hour summit climb.

Everyday carry that also travels

If you want one bag for your regular commute or daily errands that can also fold down for travel, a travel packable daypack with better zippers and a laptop-friendly pocket is a good choice. But it might have less packability than one specifically meant for compact travel. 

 Wet environments and water sports/swim bag

For genuinely wet conditions, like a beach day, kayaking, or a swim bag that needs to separate dry clothes from wet gear, use a packable bag that’s labeled as waterproof rather than water-resistant. Day bags or ones with roll-top closure and welded or taped seams work best. 

If you can't find a truly waterproof packable option, use a separate water-resistant liner or dry bag within your packable bag for peace of mind. This is also useful for rainy hikes or days around town.

Ultralight day hiking

For short, easy day hikes where you're carrying a water bottle, snacks, and maybe a light layer, an ultralight stuff-sack packable is a good fit. It has low bulk and a manageable packed-down size.  

Running and fastpacking

If you're running or moving fast over technical terrain, choose a dedicated packable running or fastpacking pack over general packable options, since stability during movement matters more here. A bouncing, poorly fitted pack is worse than carrying a slightly heavier, purpose-built one.

Packable backpack capacity guide

10–15L

This range is an "essentials only" bag that fits a phone, wallet, light layer, small water bottle, and maybe light snacks. If you try to stuff a packed lunch, a camera, and a rain jacket into a bag this size, you'll likely find it straining at the zippers or simply won't fit everything. 

15–20L

Most travel and everyday use bags fall in this range and feel like actual daypacks rather than pouches. You can fit a light jacket, a water bottle, a small camera, snacks, and some shopping or souvenirs. It's still not enough space for a full change of clothes or bulky gear.

20–30L 

This is usually the right capacity for a full day out or overnight essentials. It can fit a change of clothes, a rain shell, a decent packed lunch, and a few extra layers with your usual essentials. It works well for hiking day trips, base camps, or travel days where you need to carry more than just the basics. 

Care and maintenance for packable backpacks

Hand-wash or machine wash?

Hand-washing is the safer default for most packable backpacks, since the thin fabrics and lightweight zippers don't hold up well to the agitation of a washing machine. Use lukewarm water, a mild soap (not standard laundry detergent, which can strip water-resistant coatings), and a soft brush or cloth to spot clean or gently scrub the fabric. 

No dryer?

Skip the dryer entirely for packable backpacks, since heat is one of the fastest ways to damage both the fabric and any water-resistant coating, and air-dry away from direct sunlight. High heat can cause thin synthetic fabrics to warp, shrink, or lose their shape. Even though it might take longer than a dryer, the bag will last longer with the extra TLC. 

How to reactivate DWR coating

DWR coatings wear down with use and washing, and water stops beading on the fabric and starts soaking in instead. Many DWR coatings reactivate when exposed to gentle, indirect heat, like a tumble dry setting for a few minutes (only if the bag is dryer-safe) or ironing on a low setting with a cloth barrier between the iron and fabric. You can also use a spray-on or wash-in DWR treatment to renew the coating. 

Store loosely rather than compressed? 

Packable bags are designed to be compressed for travel and stored loose. Storing them permanently compressed can accelerate the wear on the fabric and cause creases that weaken over time. 

Zipper care

Zippers are usually the first thing to fail on a packable backpack, so give them a little extra care. Keep them free of dirt and sand by wiping them down after use. You can also apply a small amount of zipper lubricant (wax-based options work well) periodically to keep the pull smooth and reduce strain on the slider. 

Fabric repair

Small tears or snags are common in the thin fabrics of packable bags, but they're usually fixable if caught early rather than left to spread. A patch of repair tape or a small dab of seam sealant can stop a tear from growing and is often enough for minor damage. 

FAQ

• What is a packable backpack?

  A packable backpack is a lightweight bag that folds, stuffs into its own pocket (or a small stuff sack), or flattens down when it's not in use. It can be packed inside your suitcase or daypack until you need extra carrying capacity.

• What's the difference between a packable backpack and a regular daypack?

  The main difference is weight and construction. Packable backpacks use minimal padding and fewer structural components to save bulk, whereas regular daypacks use heavier materials, foam back panels, and reinforced stitching for durability and comfort.

• How small should a packable backpack pack down?

  Most pack down to the size of a novel or roughly 6 to 9 in. The exact size depends on the pack's capacity and fabric.

• Are packable backpacks durable enough for hiking?

  Most bags will hold up for short day hikes, but they are not built for rugged terrain or heavy loads. Check out our Best Daypacks for Hiking guide to learn more about our favorite hiking-specific daypacks. 

• Can I use a packable backpack as a carry-on?

  Yes, many travelers use a packable backpack as a personal item or secondary carry-on. 

• What capacity packable backpack do I need?

  For day trips, errands, or light travel, 15 to 20 liters is usually enough. If you plan to use it for day hikes, sightseeing with camera gear, or for an overnight trip, you may need 20 to 30 liters instead.

• How much weight can a packable backpack carry comfortably?

  Most can comfortably carry about 10 to 15 pounds.

• Can I use a packable backpack for overnight trips?

  It can work in a pinch, but it's generally not built for heavy loads. The lack of support often can make it uncomfortable to carry for extended periods of time.

• How do I store a packable backpack when not in use?

  Fold or stuff it into its built-in pocket, then tuck it into a drawer, suitcase pocket, or the bottom of your everyday bag. If you are storing it at home in-between trips, expand the bag and store it flat.

• Can packable backpacks hold a laptop?

  Only if they include a padded laptop sleeve.

How we researched and tested

We tested these packs for months over a variety of travel situations in Germany, Oregon, and Colorado, on flights, in airports, on trails, and errands around downtown Chicago. We also used these bags in both extreme heat and wet weather.

Bags were carried inside suitcases and clipped onto daypacks when appropriate. They were tested full to the weight capacity to check for bunching or snags. Zipper and fabric durability were also assessed, as well as ease of packing and unpacking. All bags were tested with heavy loads of a DSLR camera and extra lens to see how they held up to weight or if the straps snagged. We also filled side pockets with water bottles of different sizes for fit and ease of use. Some bags were tested while fishing for water resistance. 

• Flights, airports, trails, and city errands
• Packed inside suitcases and daypacks
• Loaded to full carrying capacity
• Carried a DSLR and extra lens
• Used in heat, rain, and near water

• Packed size and ease of compression
• Comfort with heavier loads
• Strap and back-panel performance
• Fabric and zipper durability
• Pocket usability and water resistance

Why you should trust us / About the author

The author, Karthika Gupta, is an adventure travel writer with over 25 years of adventure travel experience. She has hiked on all seven continents and loved every minute of it. She has even completed Highlander UAE and Fjallraven Chile, along with hundreds of miles in the Indian Himalayas.  She covers outdoor gear, small-group adventure travel, and hiking/camping trends for national and international publications, blending real experience with practical advice. Her work is grounded in miles hiked, boots tested, and a belief that everyone belongs in the outdoors regardless of gear and experience—you don’t need to overpack or overcomplicate to have a meaningful adventure. 

Her previous piece focused on an Adventure travel checklist guide.

You can find more of her adventures on her Instagram @karthikagupta or her website.

August 27th, 2026, updated with 6 more boots and a new winner for best waterproof hiking boots
Home → Gear Reviews → Footwear

The best waterproof hiking boots typically combine a durable water-repellent finish with an internal waterproof membrane. The exterior treatment helps water bead and delays the upper from becoming saturated, while the membrane prevents liquid water from reaching your foot and allows some moisture vapor to escape. This protection comes with trade-offs, since waterproof boots are often warmer, slower to dry, and less breathable than non-waterproof footwear.

Over the past decade, our testers have hiked thousands of miles across the Appalachian Mountains, Colorado Rockies, and Wasatch Range. For this guide, we tested nearly 20 pairs of boots in Washington, Tennessee, Colorado, Michigan, Utah, Canada, and Iceland, using them through creek crossings, on snow and ice-capped 13,000-foot peaks, in slot canyons, and during controlled bucket-submersion tests. We evaluated how each pair performed on wet trails and rough terrain, as well as how it held up through repeated use.

We compared interior leakage, exterior wet-out, drying time, breathability, traction, support, comfort, and durability. We also considered the main trade-off of waterproof footwear: the models that provide the strongest protection are often heavier, stiffer, and slower to dry.

Top Pick: The men's Salomon Quest 5 GTX and women's La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX earn our Best Overall award. Both stood out for keeping our testers’ feet dry through repeated submersion, providing dependable traction in mud and wet terrain, and offering strong support on long, rugged hikes. Both delivered the best overall combination of waterproof protection, stability, and durability.

You can also find more of our favorites in our Best Men’s Winter Hiking Boots and  Best Women’s Hiking Boots

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Comparison table

The winners

Best overall waterproof hiking boots for men: Salomon Quest 5 GORE-TEX

Price: $240
Waterproof membrane: GORE-TEX
Weight (men’s , women’s): 2lbs 10oz, 2lbs 4oz
Breathability: 3
Waterproofing: 5
Traction: 5
What we liked: Stability, reliability, support
What we didn't like: Drying time, rigidity, eyelets prone to premature deterioration

The Salomon Quest 5 GTX takes everything we loved about the Salomon Quest 4 and wraps it up in a boot with top-notch ankle support, a stable chassis, quality traction, and consistent weather-proofing. We hiked in creeks up to our ankles, and splashed in puddles to test the exterior waterproofing and we found that not only did our feet stay dry, but the nubuck leather and synthetic textiles didn’t become soggy and heavy in the same way that some boots with a membrane do. 

When paired with the Congtragrip outsole, the Salomon Quest 5 GTX boots also maintained traction on dry gravel, dirt, and mud. The rigid ankle made us feel self-assured even while carrying a heavy pack.

Salomon Quest 5 GORE-TEX

Compared to similar boots, the Quest 5 is a touch more expensive. And while they’re a few ounces lighter than their predecessor, they’re still a pretty hefty option that has a tendency to run warm in the summer. Still, the overall stability, comfort, and weather protection of these boots easily won us over. 

Best overall waterproof hiking boots for women: La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX

Price: $209
Waterproof membrane: GORE-TEX
Weight (men’s, women’s): 2 lbs 1.5 oz, 1 lb 12.8 oz
Breathability: 4
Waterproofing: 4
Traction: 5
What we liked: Technical precision, agility, supportive comfort, recycled components, stability
What we didn't like: Slightly narrow design

We’re obsessed with the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX boots. These boots won in the category of best overall hiking boots in our Best Hiking Boots for Women guide because of their lightweight, technical design. This is the kind of boot we’d want with us while scrambling and tackling questionable terrain. They’re our go-to boots on fourteeners, long days in the woods, and on short overnight trips largely because of their agility and comfort. 

La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX

Hiking in the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX boots

Side view of the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX boots

Hiker squatting and enjoying the scenery while hiking in the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX boots

Walking across a log in the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX boots

Hiking a wooded trail in the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX boots

We also love them in wet situations, although the Salomon Quest 5 GTX boots had a slight edge on waterproof performance particularly when it comes to the external DWR coating. We wore the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX during a handful of creek crossings in Washington and found that the interior stayed dry, but by the third crossing water was no longer beading up on the outside of the boots, which just meant that we ended up carrying a bit of water weight. But unlike heftier boots like the Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots, the TX Hike’s exterior dried by the end of our hike.

Best affordable waterproof hiking boots: Columbia Newton Wander

Men's and Women's

Price: $110
Waterproof membrane: Omni-Tech
Weight (men’s ,women’s): 1 lb 15 oz, 1 lb 9.8 oz
Breathability: 3
Waterproofing: 5
Traction: 4
What we liked: Boot cost, consistent performance, comfort, short break-in period
What we didn't like: Runs large, upper is prone to saturating

The Columbia Newton Wander surprised us throughout the entire testing journey because it’s easily the most affordable pair of boots on this list. Oftentimes a lower price tag means that a piece of gear will suffer in some element of performance. But as far as we can tell, they’re nearly perfect. These boots managed to tackle gravel-ridden slopes on Colorado thirteeners, patches of snow, and muddy and wet creek conditions in the foothills with ease.

Columbia Newton Wander

Top view of the Columbia Newton Wander in the snow

Testing the waterproofness of the Columbia Newton Wander

Stepping into a stream to test the waterproofness of the Columbia Newton Wander

The main reason that these boots didn’t win the overall best waterproof boots is because the upper materials have a tendency to become saturated when submerged. While the interior remained dry,  the saturated shell adds weight to the boot which can contribute to foot fatigue over the course of the day. When completely saturated, the exterior of the Columbia Newton Wander dries in a few hours while the interior can take about a full day. 

While most hikers find that these boots are true to size, our men’s tester reflected that he’d probably size down by about a half size if he were to purchase another pair of these boots. The women’s version felt true to size. This boot is an ideal pick for budget-conscious adventurers, beginners to intermediate hikers, and backpackers.

Best lightweight waterproof hiking boots: La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX

Men's and Women's

Price: $219
Waterproof membrane: GORE-TEX ePE Extended Comfort (PFAS-free, bluesign approved)
Weight (men’s,women’s): 1lb 14.2oz, 1lb 9oz
Breathability: 4
Waterproofing: 4.5
Traction: 5
What we liked: Grip, water resistance, lightweight design
What we didn't like: Moderate ankle support compared to some boots

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 GTX Mid Hiking Boots are one of the most agile, lightweight, grippy boots that we’ve tested, but in true La Sportiva style, they run narrow. Read more about them in our in-depth review. 

After wearing them non-stop for a week of outdoor adventure in Iceland, we realized that they aptly handled mud, ice, snow, and river crossings every time we headed into the mountains. After two months of testing, we realized that they not only support trekking in ideal conditions, they’re also the kind of boots you want to be wearing when hikes don’t go according to plan.

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX handles wet, rugged terrain with confidence, from rocky river crossings to steep mountain trails.

Built for changing mountain conditions, the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX provides grip and weather protection on snowy terrain.

Lightweight enough for long days in the mountains, the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX is designed for variable terrain where agility matters.

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX keeps feet protected during wet crossings, with waterproofing and grippy traction for slippery terrain.

Just a few ounces heavier than our lightest boot, the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 GTX is also one of our favorite picks for long days in the mountains with variable terrain. We wore these boots for about 35 miles while evaluating qualities like grip, durability, breathability, and weather resistance, and directly compared them to more than 10 other pairs of hiking boots. 

The biggest drawback is that they require a short break-in period due to the upper materials. But their agility and reliability make them one of our favorite boot models we’ve tested, and we truly love these boots. 

While the Lowa Renegade EVO GTX Mid was a close alternative to lightweight waterproof boots due to their minimalistic design and solid DWR coating, the Ultra Raptor claimed the title because they’re slightly more affordable, and significantly faster to dry once they become saturated, although the Renegade is a few ounces lighter.

Best waterproof hiking boots for backpacking: SCArPA Rush Trk GTX

Men's AND Women's

Price: $239
Waterproof membrane: GORE-TEX
Weight (men’s, women’s): 2 lbs 7.2 oz, 2 lb 0.8 oz
Breathability: 3
Waterproofing: 5
Traction: 5
What we liked: Durability, traction, ankle support
What we didn't like: Sizing can be tricky

The sturdy build of the SCARPA Rush Trk GTX boots is one of its standout features, and one of the reasons why it excels as a backpacking boot. When paired with outsole stability, deep lugs, and its cushioned technology, they’re one of our favorite options for long, multi-day trips where foot-care is essential.

SCARPA Rush Trk GTX

We wore these boots on rooty, rocky terrain while carrying about ten pounds of gear and never once worried about twisting an ankle. 

During our water testing, we also found that they were consistently watertight across a few different settings. But in typical form, they could be more breathable, as breathability is often a tradeoff with excellent waterproofing. Still, it took multiple submersions for the Rush Trk to become saturated. When they finally got wet, it took about a full day for these boots to dry. Overall, this is one of our favorite options available for hikers who tend to shoulder a pack, while preparing for moderate to technical terrain.

Best breathable waterproof hiking boots: Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX mid 

Men's and Women's

Price: $190
Waterproof membrane: GORE-TEX
Weight (men’s,women’s): 1 lb 15 oz, 1 lb 11.6 oz
Breathability: 5
Waterproofing: 3.5
Traction: 4
What we liked: Quick drying, nimble design, lightweight 
What we didn't like: They run long, reduced stability

The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Mid boots took both of our testers by surprise in that they feature the comfort of a trail runner shoe with many of the benefits of a more traditional boot. The lightweight materials are more forgiving than leather and nubuck alternatives, making for immediate comfort. Yet they provide a layer of support around the ankle to prevent backcountry mishaps. What’s more, is that they’re the most breathable pair of boots on this list by far, allowing internal moisture to evaporate throughout the day.

Learn more in our in-depth review of the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Mid Hiking Boots. You can read about the hiking shoe version in our in-depth review of the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX hiking shoes.

Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Mid

Close-up of the laces on the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Mid boots

Hiking in the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Mid boots

Testing the waterproofness of the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Mid boots

Front view of Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Mid boots on a hiker

Top-down view of Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Mid boots being tested for waterproofness in a stream

When it came to waterproof testing, these boots showed mild signs of moisture on the boot’s interior, but they also required the least amount of dry time because of their breathability. This is an ideal quality in a backpacking or hiking boot since it allows the hiker to keep their feet dry even after periods of submersion (while some boots require multiple days to entirely dry). 

Compared to the Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots, the X Ultra 5 GTX Mid is more agile and comfortable but less protective and prone to experiencing saturation, but it’s an ideal footwear option for someone who wants more foot protection than a pair of humble trail running shoes or hiking shoes. 

Since our original run of testing, we continued to wear the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Mid hiking boots in the Colorado foothills predominantly in spring conditions, where they maintained their breathability and lightweight structure.

Best waterproof hiking boots for wide feet: KEEN Targhee IV Mid WP

Men's AND Women's

Price: $190
Waterproof membrane: KEEN.DRY 
Weight (men’s,women’s): 2 lbs 8.6 oz , 2 lbs 2.6 oz oz
Breathability: 3
Waterproofing: 5
Traction: 5
What we liked: Wide fit available, aggressive outsole, ankle protection
What we didn't like: Lace hooks are known to be delicate, less cushioned than earlier models

The KEEN Targhee boots have been a classic hiking boot option since they originally came out in 2005. Twenty years later, the KEEN Targhee IV Mid WP continues to uphold its reputation by providing hikers with a generous fit, aggressive ankle support, and a reliable and sticky outsole.

See our in-depth review of the KEEN Targhee IV Mid WP hiking boots for more information.

KEEN Targhee IV Mid WP

Hiker hiking in the KEEN Targhee IV Mid WP boots

Showing the sole of the KEEN Targhee IV Mid WP boots

Side view of the KEEN Targhee IV Mid WP boots

One of our testers has the tendency to travel a little too quickly, twisting their ankle about once per year. But the KEEN Targhee IV Mid completely eviscerated the possibility of an ankle sprain due to the aggressive lacing system, rigid upper materials, and high collar. 

Admittedly, these boots run on the heavy side of the spectrum, topped only by the Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots. The KEEN.RUGGED outsole is durable and abrasion-resistant but it’s also substantial in size and weight, and the upper leather material has a similarly aggressive construction that adds to the overall weight. They’ve also been reported to be less cushioned than earlier models of the boot. And we found that there wasn’t very much rebound in these boots. But their long-term durability, wide fit, and quality design makes them a great option for hikers who prefer lasting boots. 

During our submersion tests, we noticed no internal moisture in these boots after 15 minutes, and the exterior only became mildly wet. So, they stand up really nicely to extended water exposure, but their dry time is similar to the Salomon Quest 4 GTX Boots, taking somewhere between one and two days to dry.

A close competitor for the KEEN Targhee was the Oboz Bridger Mid, which comes with a generous width and a similar structure. But the Targhee is ultimately more affordable, and slightly wider than the Bridger, giving it the win.

Best waterproof hiking boots for narrow feet: Lowa Renegade EVO GTX Mid

Men's AND Women's

Price: $280
Waterproof membrane: GORE-TEX
Weight (men’s,women’s): 2 lb 9.6 oz, 2 lbs 2.2 oz
Breathability: 3
Waterproofing: 5
Traction: 4
What we liked: Stability, grip, durable upper and outsole
What we didn't like: Cost, breathability could be improved, long break-in period

The Lowa Renegade EVO GTX Mid and Asolo Acadia Mid LTH GTX were neck and neck throughout our testing process, but we ultimately decided the Renegade slightly edges the Acadia out when it comes to waterproofing simply because water stopped beading up on the exterior of the Acadia boots much faster than it did on the Renegade.

You can read more in our in-depth review of the Lowa Renegade EVO GTX Mid hiking boots.

Lowa Renegade EVO GTX Mid

We ran the bathroom faucet on a low setting over both of these boots and found that the Asolo wetted out in about two minutes. After leaving the faucet running on the Renegade for fifteen minutes, the water continued beading up on the exterior of the boot, never permeating the DWR coating. Even though the Acadia picked up some extra water weight, water didn’t make it past either boots’ GORE-TEX membrane to saturate our feet, making the saturation more of an inconvenience than a safety or comfort concern.

Both boots run narrow with the Acadia providing a bunion-specific fit that we love. But the Renegade offers a more standard fit for narrow feet. We also suspect that the Renegade will take longer to show signs of deterioration than the Acadia due to its sturdy construction and material choices. Honestly, both boots are great options for narrow feet and the Acadia comes with a more competitive price tag. We just think that the Renegade’s waterproof design is slightly superior. 

You can read more in our in-depth review of the Lowa Renegade EVO GTX Mid hiking boots.

Other waterproof hiking boots we tested 

Oboz Bridger Mid

Men's and Women's

Price: $220
Weight (men’s, women’s): 2 lbs 6 oz, 2lbs 0.4oz
Waterproofing: Oboz B-DRY waterproof membrane
Material: Nubuck leather, dual-density EVA foam, Granite Peak rubber outsole
Available sizes(men’s, women’s): 7-14, 5-12

While many hiking boots these days adopt a minimalist design that favors a lighter, and a flexible construction, they often forfeit longevity. The Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof hiking boots, however, offer the stability and confidence of a traditional hiking boot without feeling like a brick, supporting movement through uneven and slippery terrain.

We wore these boots for 30 miles across Colorado’s foothills, urban landscapes, and 13,000-foot mountains to evaluate qualities like comfort, grip, durability, breathability, and weather resistance. Then we directly compared them to more than 10 other pairs of hiking boots. 

One of the biggest drawbacks of these boots is that they’re more prone to contributing to foot fatigue due to their weight—especially when wet—compared with other hiking boots. Yet their rigid upper materials and sturdy outsole, support, and heel cup make them one of our favorite boots for rugged trails where protection is vital for overall comfort. 

But even with their hefty design, and noticeable price tag, we love these boots due to their extreme comfort, heel cup, and durability. Read more about them in our in-depth review. 

Oboz Sawtooth Ascent Mid Waterproof 

Men's and Women's

Price: $175
Weight (men’s, women’s): 2 lbs 4.8 oz, 1lb 14.8oz
Waterproofing: Oboz B-DRY waterproof membrane
Material: Waterproof nubuck leather, textile overlay, EVA foam, TPU chassis, Vibram XS-Trek outsole
Available sizes (men’s, women’s): 7-15, 5-13

Last year, Oboz released the Sawtooth Ascent Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots, which retains many of the original qualities of early Sawtooth boots, while updating the fit and features. The result is a boot with lighter protection, a more aggressive outsole, and a supportive-yet-lightweight chassis. 

Throughout weeks of testing across three different states in conditions that ranged from hot and muggy to stormy and muddy, the Sawtooth Ascent impressed us with its ability to prioritize comfort while maintaining protection. These boots offer a strong option for hikers who are looking for a secure mid-height boot without the weight and stiffness that’s often associated with more traditional hiking boots.

Admittedly, the Sawtooth Ascent comes with a few flaws, like sub-par breathability and slightly less support for hikers who regularly carry heavy loads. But their lightweight structure, agile composition, and performance-oriented design make them a strong boot option for avid hikers. Read more about them in our in-depth review.

Oboz Katabatic RT Mid GTX Waterproof

Men's and Women's

Price: $220
Weight (men’s, women’s): 2 lb. 0.4 oz, 1 lb. 10.6 oz
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX Invisible Fit membrane
Material: Ballistic recycled polyester mesh with TPU overlays and toe cap, EVA midsole with O Fit Insole, Vibram Megagrip outsole
Available sizes: 6-11

The Oboz Katabatic RT Mid GTX Waterproof hiking boots excel at balancing an agile, lightweight structure with rugged durability. While the Katabatic LT focuses on maximizing speed and minimizing weight, the RT comes with a more durable upper and a Vibram Megagrip outsole that noticeably enhances traction on wet rock, snow, and even ice. 

Over six months of testing in Colorado, Montana, and Alaska, we encountered loose scree, snowfields, and steep alpine terrain, but the Katabatic RT consistently surprised us with its ability to support long mountain endeavors with minimal foot fatigue. 

While the Oboz Katabatic RT Mid GTX are a solid boot option for rugged day hikes, peak bagging, and lightweight backpacking, they didn’t claim a winning spot in this guide because the toe box runs small, which can cause chafing on the pinky side. Check out our in-depth review of the Oboz Katabatic RT Mid hiking boots to learn more.

Salewa Pedroc 2 Leather Mid Powertex 

Men's AND Women's

Price: $200 
Weight (men’s, women’s): 1 lb 15.7 oz, 1 lb 9.4 oz
Waterproofing: Powertex
Materials: Suede and nylon upper, Pomoca Speed Hiker 2 outsole, dual-density recycled footbed, PFC-free Powertex membrane
Available Sizes (men’s,women’s): 7-14, 5-11

The Salewa Pedroc 2 Leather Mid Powertex boot is a great option for those who like to travel light and fast. But after these boots showed internal moisture during our submersion tests, we realized that we prefer more aggressive waterproof technology.

Salewa Pedroc 2 Leather Mid Powertex 

Asolo Acadia Mid LTH GTX 

Men's AND Women's

Price: $200
Weight (men’s,women’s): 2 lbs 4.8 oz, 1 lb 15 oz
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX
Materials: Suede upper, GORE-TEX Extended Comfort Wear lining, Asoloflex 00 SR lasting board, Acadia footbed, Sigma Grip outsole
Available Sizes (men’s,women’s): 8-14, 6-10.5, wide and standard fits

The Asolo Acadia Mid LTH GTX boots won in our best boots for narrow feet category in our best women’s hiking boot guide because of the snug forefoot fit and bunion design. And, frankly, it was a close contender for the same category in this guide. The main reason why the Lowa Renegade won over the Asolo Acadia is because the exterior of the Acadia has a tendency to wet out, which adds weight and general foot fatigue to the boot. Admittedly, it also dries faster than the Lowa Renegade and the internal membrane keeps your feet from getting wet. The Renegade is also substantially lighter.

Asolo Acadia Mid LTH GTX 

Danner Mountain 600 EVO

Men's and Women's

Price: $280
Weight (men’s, women’s): 2 lbs 8 oz, 2 lbs
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX
Materials: Full-grain leather upper, nylon shank, OrthoLite footbed, Vibram Fuga outsole
Available Sizes (men’s, women’s):  7-13, 5-11

We love the retro style of the Danner Mountain 600 EVO GTX boot, and we think it’s a classic option for a reason. These boots could’ve easily won in the backpacking and wide foot categories. But they come with a touch less breathability and stability than alternative boots. Like the Asolo Acadia Mid boots, the exterior quickly wetted out but the interior stayed dry during testing. 

While external saturation doesn’t automatically become a significant problem for hikers and backpackers, it can impact the temperature of your boots, making it more difficult for your feet to stay warm. More commonly, it negatively impacts the weight of the boots, which contributes to foot fatigue.  

Read more in our in-depth review of the very similar Danner Mountain 600 Leaf GTX.

Danner Mountain 600 EVO

Different lace styles on the Danner Mountain 600 EVO boot

Side view of the Danner Mountain 600 EVO boot with GORE-TEX waterproofing

The sole and tread of the Danner Mountain 600 EVO boot with GORE-TEX waterproofing

Hiker modeling the Danner Mountain 600 EVO boot with GORE-TEX waterproofing

Oboz Sawtooth X Mid Waterproof

Men's AND Women's

Price: $200
Weight (men’s, women’s): 2 lbs 6.8 oz, 2 lbs 0.6 oz
Waterproofing: Oboz B-Dry
Materials: Gold certified nubuck leather and 30% recycled mesh upper, TPU heel counter, B-Dry membrane, Trail Tread rubber outsole
Available Sizes (men’s, women’s): 7-15, wide and standard widths

We love these boots. They’re comfortable, durable, aggressive, and technical enough to handle most trails. But after our submersion tests, we noticed a touch of dampness around the tongue of these boots. And, honestly, we’d still wear them in wet conditions because they excel in just about every other category (i.e., grip, traction, comfort, support). We just found that there were a few pairs of boots that handled external moisture with a more aggressive approach.

Oboz Sawtooth X Mid Waterproof

What to look for in waterproof hiking boots

Waterproof hiking boots should come with minimal seams to prevent leakage, a reliable waterproof barrier, and some amount of breathability to allow internal evaporation to take place. These components should work together to create a boot that’s designed to enhance comfort and protection, while allowing hikers to adventure in the wilderness. Here’s what else hikers should know about essential waterproof hiking boot features. 

Waterproof membrane types 

GORE-TEX first materialized in 1969 when Bob Gore discovered that it was possible to create a waterproof membrane by using polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) rods. Less than a decade later, the resulting material began appearing in jackets, which created a water-repellent shell that was predominantly used for outdoor adventurers. 

Today, GORE-TEX is still the reigning king of waterproofing, appearing in everything from jackets to bibs, boots, and gloves. One of its most popular applications is in a membrane in hiking boots. This membrane is designed to keep your feet dry even when you submerge your boots in creeks and sludge. In order to maintain such an unbeatable barrier, it does have a tendency to trap sweat inside of hiking boots. But GORE-TEX is not the only waterproof material that’s available today. 

In fact, boots like the KEEN Targhee IV use the proprietary KEEN.DRY waterproofing, which is essentially a barrier that’s used in a bootie construction of the boot and paired with a water-repellent boot finish. KEEN isn’t exactly transparent about which materials it uses to create this waterproof barrier outside of stating that it’s PFC-free. But we know that the brand uses third-party testing to evaluate the waterproofing system. 

One advantage that comes from brands using a proprietary waterproofing barrier is that they have more control over the manufacturing process. This could mean that they’re more likely to implement upgrades based on reported defects, supporting constant improvements and pivoting to stay competitive with pricing. At the same time, proprietary waterproof systems haven’t been around as long as GORE-TEX, which means that they haven’t seen as much field testing. KEEN.DRY, for example, was released in 2009, about 40 years after GORE-TEX was invented. So, it might feel like trusting proprietary waterproofing comes with a greater risk.

KEEN.DRY also isn’t the only proprietary waterproofing material available. Oboz offers its own. Danner, Merrell, and Columbia are also known for their own waterproofing systems.

Breathability vs. waterproofing trade-offs

Typically, the more waterproof a boot, the less breathable it’ll be. That said, this reality is a bit nuanced. I’ve conducted side-by-side testing of both GORE-TEX boots and KEEN.DRY boots and determined that they both stand up to complete submersion, which was frankly surprising for me to witness since I felt biased towards GORE-TEX after adopting the material in a rain shell and in my boots for 800 miles on the Appalachian Trail. I thought that nothing could ever compete with the material. 

What’s more is that KEEN.DRY tends to provide more breathability than GORE-TEX alternatives, lending itself to faster drying times. As a result, you might argue that GORE-TEX boots are a better option for cold-weather conditions where warmth and insulation are key. And KEEN.DRY boots might support warm-weather hikers who spend a lot of time around water. 

Hikers who spend time in warmer environments may be more inclined to grab a pair of boots with a slightly more breathable (and possibly less waterproof) option, knowing that they won’t need to keep their boots saturated for long stretches of time.

Construction methods (sealed seams, gusset tongues)

Waterproof hiking boots may come with a sealed or taped construction, which means that the upper pieces of the boots are stitched together and then sealed together from the inside to prevent water from seeping in through the needle holes. This is one of the most common manufacturing methods. It’s extremely effective, but can face challenges when it comes to longevity. 

Some boots come with gusseted tongues, which means that the tongues are sewn to a higher height than non-waterproof boots. This is a must-have feature if you’re looking for truly waterproof boots, but it requires additional waterproofing to be truly effective. 

The majority of waterproof hiking boots use some type of waterproof membrane, which is placed on the interior of the boot’s upper. As one of the most effective waterproofing methods, this approach can typically withstand complete submersion. But the membrane can be punctured with intense usage. 

Upper material compatibility with membranes

While waterproof membranes are one of the most effective solutions to saturation, they aren’t compatible with every upper material. For example, they’re generally effective with the use of a leather upper since leather is less prone to stretching and stressing out the bond between the upper and the membrane. Membranes may also be compatible with suede materials, but suede is more absorbent than leather, which means that it reduces the breathability of a membrane, resulting in a need for an additional DWR coating on the exterior of the boot. And, oftentimes, suede boots will become completely saturated when the DWR coating fails. While the waterproof membrane prevents your feet from getting wet, the added weight of water can contribute to foot fatigue. 

Generally, leather, synthetic materials like nylon and ripstop, and nubuck leather offer the best compatibility with waterproof membranes, while suede and synthetic leathers present additional waterproofing challenges. 

Outsole design for wet traction

In addition to prioritizing a waterproof boot construction, hiking boots should come with an outsole that prioritizes grip in wet conditions to keep you feeling sure-footed and stable in any condition. Soft outsole rubber tends to stick to wet surfaces while increasing surface contact better than hardened alternatives. Some rubbers we love in these conditions include Vibram Megagrip rubber and Salomon Contagrip MA because of their strong, soft material.

Break-in requirements for waterproof boots

Break-in times vary greatly from boot to boot, no matter if they’re waterproof or not. But typically, leather boots take the longest to break-in, requiring 1 to 3 weeks or 20 to 40 hours of regular usage to soften the materials. Nubuck leather requires less time than full-grain leather, but most hikers should still expect to use them for 1 to 2 weeks or 10 to 20 hours before the materials feel soft and supple. And synthetic boots often require the least amount of break-in time, allowing hikers to feel comfortable and supported in just a few hours.  

Sizing considerations with waterproof liners

Waterproof membranes can slightly reduce the interior volume of a boot. So, if you’re between sizes, it’s generally better to size up than to size down. Boots with membranes are also less likely to experience stretching as they break-in. This means that hikers should ensure they have enough instep space and space in the toe box to comfortably hike on both an ascent and descent.

Price vs. performance value

Like most outdoor gear, waterproof hiking boots exist on a large spectrum that ranges from affordable, entry-level footwear to highly technical options that are compatible with crampons and MICROspikes. In most cases, the capability of a boot increases as the price of it grows. But there are some exceptions to this reality, like the Columbia Newton Wander, which is extra affordable and relatively adept at tackling easy to moderate terrain.

Why you should buy waterproof hiking boots 

Waterproof hiking boots add a layer of protection from rain, creek crossings, and other variable conditions, but not everyone needs this extra assurance or is interested in trading breathability for a moisture protectant. Here are a few considerations before purchasing a pair of waterproof hiking boots.

Wet weather protection

Rain, snow, and mud can quickly permeate hiking boots that don’t come with a waterproof barrier. But some places are more likely to feature these conditions than others. For example, Colorado has a tendency to stay dry between late spring and early fall while the Pacific Northwest often comes with variable weather conditions year-round. As a result, those who live or recreate in places that are known for having wet weather may prefer the use of waterproof boots over mesh hiking boots or trail runners. 

Stream crossing confidence

Stream crossings and wet terrain can feel like a nuisance on a long hike, creating stress around keeping your feet dry. Waterproof boots can help reduce stream-related stress since they’re designed to keep your feet dry even when submerged. But if stream crossing and wet terrain are uncommon in your places of recreation, waterproof boots might not be necessary.

Temperature regulation

Wet feet have a more challenging time maintaining their warmth than dry feet, which is another reason why waterproof boots can come into play. Those who regularly hike in cold conditions can usually benefit from adopting a waterproof hiking boot. 

You may also want to check out our Shoulder Season Backpacking Gear List.

Blister prevention

We love hiking boots, but their rigid constructions and reduced breathability are much more likely to cause blisters than trail runners. Since waterproof hiking boots are typically even less breathable than a standard pair of hiking boots, they’re prone to causing foot irritations like hot spots and blisters, especially on overnight trips where it’s more challenging for your boots to completely dry out before slipping them on again. At the same time, waterproof hiking boots can allow your feet to stay dry for longer than standard hiking boots, which can eliminate the likelihood of forming blisters and trenchfoot, which makes them a great option for day hikes. 

There’s no single type of footwear that performs perfectly in every situation. So, deciding whether or not you want to wear boots that offer more protection but may be more prone to causing blisters versus trail runners or a lightweight hybrid largely comes down to you. Just keep in mind that boots are more likely to contribute to the development of blisters than other footwear types because of their rigid, less-breathable design.

In addition to your footwear choice, a quality pair of hiking socks–including waterproof hiking socks–can help prevent blisters. Learn more in our guide on How to Take Care of Your Feet When Hiking and Backpacking.

Versatility

An advantage that waterproof hiking boots have over other types of footwear is versatility. While trail runners aren't as good in situations where you need an extra sticky outsole or a shelf for crampons, hiking boots can work better  year-round.. 

Trade-off awareness

I love a good pair of hiking boots. But the reason why I switched from a hefty pair of Vasque boots to my first pair of Brooks Cascadia trail runners at mile 800 on the Appalachian Trail was because of my boots’ breathability–or rather, lack thereof. While the supple, full-grain leather of my boots was still in great condition, and my outsole had plenty of life left in it, I kept experiencing excruciating blisters because my boots never dried out. 

It was only after my hiking partner dragged me to an outfitter off-trail that I finally decided that I wanted to find an alternative footwear option. I hiked in trail runners for the remainder of the Appalachian Trail, but I still think that boots have their place in the world–like in snowy conditions, on wet terrain, and on feet that struggle with arthritis (because they limit joint movement), like mine. A 6’3” hiker friend wore boots for the entirety of the trail and continues to wear them today, citing ankle support as the main reason for his choice. 

Ultimately, a quality pair of waterproof hiking boots will keep your feet dry longer than nearly any other type of footwear. But they’re also more rigid, and they take way longer to dry than non-waterproof boots and trail runners, which can cause issues on long-term journeys like a thru-hike.

Waterproof vs. non-waterproof hiking boots 

Deciding between a pair of standard or waterproof hiking boots comes down to a few traits. Waterproof hiking boots often have a slightly more expensive price tag, but they provide additional benefits. Non-waterproof hiking boots often cost less and provide more breathability than waterproof alternatives, but they’re less versatile, too. 

Consider the conditions in which you expect to hike. Those who spend a lot of time in rain, snow, or near creeks may benefit from a pair of waterproof hiking boots, while those who hike in humid conditions may be more supported by non-waterproof hiking boots since they allow more internal moisture to evaporate.

How to maintain waterproof hiking boots 

A quality pair of waterproof hiking boots can last you for hundreds of miles. With the right maintenance, they might even last over 1,000 miles. After each muddy and wet hike, remove the insoles (and ideally, laces, though that is more of a pain) prior to brushing debris away from the boot. Afterwards, use lukewarm water and a mild boot cleaner to remove additional dirt from the uppers and outsoles. Let them dry while keeping them out of direct sunlight since heat can cause boots to break down faster. 

If the DWR coating on your boots loses its effectiveness (causing water to stop beading or permeating the external fabrics), it might be time for a refresh. Brands like Nikwax make DWR solutions that can be applied to your boots after they’ve been properly cleaned. 

If you have a pair of leather boots, you should periodically condition the upper to prevent premature cracking and deterioration. 

Store your boots in a cool, dry, ventilated place.

How to choose the right waterproof boot fit 

Waterproof hiking boots should fit snugly around the foot without causing pinching or rubbing. While looking for the right size, make sure that your toes can move freely, and that you try your boots on with the socks you intend to wear hiking. If you have the opportunity to check your size while in a store, make sure to wear them on an incline and descent to ensure that your toes don’t jam into the front of the boot and that your heel stays locked in place (instead of lifting with each step).

FAQ

• Do waterproof hiking boots breathe? 

  Yes, waterproof hiking boots breathe, but not as well as non-waterproof hiking boots or hiking shoes. Breathability also depends on factors like the boots’ upper materials and construction, with some fabrics and waterproof membranes providing more airflow than others. 

• How long do waterproof hiking boots stay waterproof? 

  Hiking boots typically stay waterproof between 1 and 5 years, depending on the frequency of use, terrain type and conditions, and the design of the boots. The external DWR coating is usually the first part of the waterproof construction that deteriorates, although punctures to the membrane can cause a boot to lose its weatherproof construction. We’ve also noticed saturation around high-use areas like the tongue and creases of our boots over time.

• Can I make my hiking boots more waterproof? 

  Adventurers can improve a boot’s water resistance by applying a DWR coating to the exterior of the boot. On some boots, hikers might also seal the seams with seam grip tape or silicone water guard to improve their water repellency. During one particularly wet stint along the Appalachian Trail, we also applied Shoe Goo to parts of the boot that were showing wear until we could make it into town. However, once a waterproof membrane has been punctured or worn out, it may be time for a new pair of boots. 

• Should I size up for waterproof hiking boots? 

  Maybe. The waterproof membrane in hiking boots reduces the amount of volume that’s available on the inside of the boot, which means that some hikers will prefer sizing up to maintain comfort. However, most brands already take this reality into account, which means that hikers can usually fit their standard size in waterproof hiking boots.

• How do I dry wet waterproof hiking boots? 

  Air dry your hiking boots slowly, at room temperature after you’ve removed the laces and insoles. Avoid direct sunlight since it can cause the premature breakdown of glues and other boot materials. 

• What's the difference between GORE-TEX and other waterproof membranes? 

  GORE-TEX is an ePTFE/ePE membrane that’s known for its reliable waterproof performance, but some brands offer proprietary membranes that rival GORE-TEX in terms of breathability and cost.

• Can waterproof boots be repaired if they leak? 

  Some waterproof boots can be repaired if they leak, depending on the cause of the leakage. For example, some boots can be repaired at the seams. You can also increase a boot’s water repellency by applying a DWR coating, which we’ve found to be helpful but it never quite brings the waterproof system back to 100% function. As brands are becoming more eco-conscious, we’re also seeing more regular use of ePE, which is a PFAS-free system that’s overall more sustainable than other options. But once the membrane of a boot has been punctured, it’s time to retire your boots.

How we researched and tested 

We tested more than a dozen pairs of both men’s and women’s waterproof hiking boots over the course of 6 months while tackling 200+ miles of trails in Colorado, Utah, Washington and Canada. Along the journey, we navigated stream crossings, sharp alpine peaks, slot canyons, and easy to challenging terrain to evaluate boot qualities like comfort, fit, durability, and waterproof capabilities. Between our testers, we have thousands of miles of long-distance backpacking and mountaineering experience. 

On one sunny Colorado day, we took these boots to a local creek to evaluate traction on muddy banks as well as performance during crossings. And, while at home, we also submerged every one of these boots in a tub full of water up to the ankle for 15 minutes to determine how they’d perform to monitor both DWR coatings and the waterproof membrane’s ability to keep saturation out of the boot’s interior.

• Creek crossings and muddy banks
• Alpine peaks and slot canyons
• Snow, ice, and wet trails
• Repeated use across varied terrain
• 15-minute ankle-deep submersion tests

• Interior leakage and exterior wet-out
• Drying time and breathability
• Traction on wet terrain
• Comfort and support
• Durability through repeated use

Exploring a Colorado Creek in fall with the Columbia Newton Wander

Testing the DWR coating of the Keen Targhe IV

A collection of some of our favorite waterproof hiking boots

Why you should trust us / About the author 

A serial long-distance backpacker, Mary Beth Skylis has tackled thousands of miles of trails over the past decade while thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, and the Annapurna Circuit. She wore a hefty pair of Vasque boots for the first 800 miles of the Appalachian Trail, where she learned what a truly durable pair of footwear could look like. 

For the purposes of this article, Skylis also worked with Tommy Campbell, a Colorado-based rock climbing guide and mountaineer. Between our testers, we have about 55 years of hiking and mountaineering experience that’s taken us to places like Denali in Alaska, and across dozens of fourteeners in Colorado. 

You can find more of Mary Beth Skylis’ reviews on her Treeline Review author page.

August 26, 2026
Home > Gear Reviews > Footwear

Our verdict

The norda 000 is a brand-new trail running shoe designed for mountain running, technical trails, scrambling, and long-distance running on dirt and gravel. It launched on August 26 at Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) as part of an ongoing collaboration with Black Diamond for mountain running equipment. 

The 000 features a Vibram Stream Flow midsole, and it's the first shoe on the market to use it. These shoes are extremely durable, super versatile, and further improve on the already great features of previous norda models. They’re light and fast on smooth trails, but are also stable enough for rugged conditions and astoundingly grippy for off-trail scrambling, too. 

I tested the norda 000 while mountain and trail running in Colorado. I got my hands on a pair about a month before launch, and I’ve put close to 100 miles on them so far. I’ve run dirt roads, rocky trails, scrambled granite ridges, and traversed scree fields in these shoes. I’ve summited multiple 14,000-foot mountains and run trails in Colorado state parks, national forests, and along the Colorado Trail. 

If you liked the norda 001A trail running shoes, but want more cushion around the ankle collar than the 001A provides, then these are the shoes for you. The Vibram Stream Flow midsole is springy, yet firm, and stays stable over 250 miles, according to Vibram and norda. I have over 400 miles on a pair of norda 001A, which uses a different midsole material. But I expect the Vibram Stream Flow midsole will remain lively for at least 500 miles.

The biggest drawback of the 000, as with all norda shoes, is the price. I can’t deny that nearly $300 for a pair of shoes is a lot. But I’m also starting to believe this brand’s shoes are worth the price, considering how well they perform and how long they last. Another consideration is that norda shoes run small, and they don’t have consistent sizing. I typically wear a men’s size 9.5, and have been wearing a size 10.5 in the 000. 

If you’re looking for a durable and long-lasting pair of high-performing running shoes, the 000 might be the best norda shoes yet for technical terrain.  

This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission without costing you an extra cent. This allows us to create reader-supported objective gear reviews. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more why you can trust Treeline Review.

Norda 000 trail running shoes specifications

MSRP: $295
Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm): 5 mm
Stack Height: 26-21 mm
Lugs: 5 mm
Upper: Bio-circular Dyneema
Midsole: Vibram Stream Flow
Outsole: Vibram Megagrip rubber
Weight (pair): 1 lb 4.8 oz (US men's 8.5), 1 lb 1.8 oz (US women's W 8)

Comparison table

Best for

• Technical trail running

• Long-distance running

• Thru-hiking

• Summer peakbagging and mountaineering

• Scrambling

What we liked

• Vibram Megagrip outsole has excellent grip on rock, dirt, and varied terrain in wet or dry conditions

• Uses Dyneema fiber made from wood and pulp industry waste

• Maxmimum cushion that somehow still offers a balance of ground feel and long-run comfort

• Vibram Stream Flow midsole feels light, responsive, and springy

• Roomy toe box

• Comfortable out of the box

What could be better

• Norda shoes are undeniably expensive, but they can last twice as long as shoes that cost more than half as much

• Sizing inconsistency among norda models, but they run small 

How we tested

I tested the norda 000 while trail running, backpacking, hiking, and scrambling in Colorado, during July and August. I ran on high-elevation trails in Leadville, Buena Vista, Salida, and outside Aspen, Colorado. I summited several 14,000-foot mountains, and backpacked in to create a base camp for some of them as well. 

Trail conditions I tested them in ranged from smooth dirt paths to rugged rocky ridgelines with no trail at all. I ran uphill to mountain ridgelines on steep, rocky trails, then followed those ridgelines to mountain summits—where many people use approach shoes. Most of my testing happened in hot, clear summer conditions, but I did experience a few short bursts of rain in mountain storms as well. 

I also tested the 000 alongside several other trail running shoes, including the norda 001a, which I am longevity-testing up to 700 miles. 

Performance in the field

Fit and Comfort

The norda 000 trail running shoes are very comfortable to wear all day and comfortable right out of the box. I've put in several 8- to 10- hour days in these shoes, running, scrambling, and hiking when the terrain is too steep to run. They’ve remained comfortable the entire time. 

If you're trying norda shoes for the first time, you might have to play around with sizing. The 000 fits similarly to other norda shoes, but maybe a tad smaller. I normally wear a men’s 9.5, and have a size 10.5 in the 000. However, I have a size 10 in the norda 001A. I think I could have gotten away with wearing a size 10 in the 000, but the 10.5 gives me a roomier toe box and doesn’t feel sloppy, so I think 10.5 is the ideal size for my feet.

Fit in Toe Box

The toe box is roomier than most trail running shoes. They don’t have quite as wide a toe box as the Altra Lone Peak or Olympus, but they feel about as wide as the Altra Timp, for reference. 

Fit in Midfoot

The laces attach to an interior foot binding system to hold your foot in place. I find I don’t have to tighten these shoes as much as I’d expect, and they still hold my foot in place. 

Fit in Heel Cup

They have a padded ankle collar and heel cup that keeps your heel locked in place. This is a notable change from the norda 001A, which is otherwise pretty similar to the 000.  

Midsole and Cushioning

The 000 has 26 mm of stack in the heel and 21 mm in the forefoot. It has a springy yet firm Vibram Stream Flow midsole which feels like a supercritical foam (in the sense that it’s light and responsive) but with the resiliency of a much longer-lasting midsole. 

Level of cushioning compared to other trail shoes/road shoes

Compared to other trail and road running shoes, the 000 has less-than-average cushioning, especially for a Maximum cushion shoe (note that we call it that relative to the 001A, which is called a Moderate cushion shoe). The norda 000 have about as much cushion as low-stack models, such as the Altra Lone Peak (25 mm) and La Sportiva Bushido (25-19 mm) trail running shoes.

They're much less cushioned than shoes with 30+ mm of stack, such as the HOKA Speedgoat (40-35 mm stack) or Altra Olympus (33 mm). 

Impact absorption and energy return

The 000 midsole absorbs impact while providing a very snappy return. These shoes don’t feel mushy or like you’re running on a cloud, either. The midsole feels firm and light as you stride, but it provides a subtle, predictable bounce that keeps your feet moving forward.  

Stability

These shoes are very stable. We’ve run and scrambled several class 3 and 4 mountain ridges in these shoes. They feel firm and planted on the ground beneath you, even when that ground is steep, loose, and exposed. 

As an aside, in the running shoe world, a “stability shoe” is designed to support the foot and reduce excessive inward rolling, known as overpronation. The 000 is not a stability shoe in this sense. 

Support

The 000 is a neutral support shoe. It isn’t designed to prevent overpronation, but it provides more support than a minimalist shoe. 

Arch Support

It has an eTPU insole that provides subtle arch support, and the midsole is slightly contoured to support your arch. Overall, the midsole and insole provide subtle support while allowing some natural foot flexion.

Lateral Support

The 000 has excellent lateral support. The Dyneema upper with norda’s fit lock system keeps your foot firmly in position as you push off to either side. The fit lock system essentially extends the laces all the way down to the midsole, so you don’t have to lace these shoes as tight, and they’ll still hold your foot in place. 

Some shoes feel ready to tip over during sharp lateral movements, but the 000 is lower to the ground, with an upper that secures your foot in place.  

Ride

The 000 shoes have a light, snappy, and fast ride while feeling more stable and predictable than many high-cushion shoes. 

They’re not super cushiony or bouncy like some shoes, such as the HOKA Speedgoat. They also feel firmer underfoot compared to a shoe like the Altra Lone Peak, but they don’t feel too firm, either. The 000s feel barely noticeable in the best way as you run. They compress subtly with every footfall, and rebound predictably as you push off. 

After about 50 miles, the midsole seems to break in, too. During my third run of more than 20 miles, I felt like it conformed to my foot. This midsole felt good off the bat, but felt better after I put some miles on it. 

Outsole, Grip, and Traction

The 000 has a Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole. Norda calls this outsole a sole plate because it covers the entire sole, with no exposed midsole foam. It has 5mm lugs and grips loose terrain, mud, and bare rock in wet or dry conditions. 

Performance on various terrains

The 000 has 5mm lugs, which are deep enough to bite into loose terrain. The Vibram Megagrip outsole also grips well on slick rock, granite, and other bare rock surfaces. The lower stack height also makes them better for unpredictable terrain and technical scrambling. With your foot low to the ground, they provide great ground feel and confidence when smearing or boulder hopping. 

They also have small rubber spikes that extend further out from the outsole. These are mold dots: residual placeholders from the manufacturing process used to house metal studs on winter variants of the same Megagrip outsole. These mold dots probably provide even more traction on loose terrain, but they also wear off in 50-100 miles.   

Norda is well-known for broadly having quality outsoles, even to the point of including Vibram in the norda 008 recovery shoes, which is rare for that type of footwear.

Wet and dry conditions

The 000 performs well in wet and dry conditions. The Megagrip outsole, paired with 5mm lugs, bites into dry, hard-packed dirt and works almost as well in muddy conditions. I’ve mostly used them in dry, summertime conditions in Colorado, but I’ve never slipped during countless stream crossings. 

Versatility

The 000 is a relatively versatile trail shoe. They're best for steep, mountainous terrain, but they also work well for backpacking, hiking, thru-hiking and running on smoother dirt trails and even gravel surfaces. 

I have run on flowy singletrack trails, dirt and gravel roads, and steep, mountainous terrain. I’ve run, hiked, and scrambled off trails completely, going cross-country up the side of a mountain. And I’ve run back from trailheads to where I’m camped on long, rolling forest roads. 

Responsiveness

The Vibram Stream Flow midsole feels responsive without feeling mushy or too springy. It provides enough cushion while giving excellent energy return as you push off.

Warmth

The 000 features a breathable Dyneema mesh upper. If you’re looking to use these in cold weather, you should consider thicker socks or a winterized waterproof shoe. 

Break-In Time

We pulled these shoes out of the box, put them on to check the fit, and then immediately went on a 5-mile trail run. They’re very comfortable right out of the box, and we had no issues on that first run or on any subsequent runs, hikes, or scrambles.

Upper and Breathability

These shoes are also very breathable. We’ve run in temperatures up to 90 degrees in these shoes, and they’ve never caused our feet to overheat. 

Durability and Longevity

So far, I've run nearly 100 miles on technical, rocky terrain in my pair of 000s. The upper is made with bio-circular Dyneema fiber that is extremely abrasion-resistant. We’ve crossed miles of talus fields, full of large, sharp-edged pieces of granite, and the upper shows no signs of tearing or abrasion.    

Midsole Durability

The Vibram Stream Flow midsole still feels as good as it did when the shoes were new. We have another pair of norda shoes, the 001A, and the midsole still feels good after 400 miles, and we’re hoping it’ll last for 700 miles. We expect the 000’s midsole to last at least that long, but the Vibram Stream Flow midsole is slightly more performance-oriented, so it might not last all the way to 700 miles. I’ll keep you posted.

The midsole feels just as cushioned and springy as it did when new. Vibram claims their Stream Flow midsole is their most resilient compound. Based on how long other norda midsoles last, I expect the 000 midsole will also last at least 500 miles. For reference, most non-norda trail running shoes last about 300 miles, depending on the terrain and other factors.

Also, as noted above, the shoes have no exposed midsole foam on the tread, which prevents rocks or other sharp objects underfoot from tearing the midsole and shortening the shoes' longevity.

Wear and tear in upper materials

The Dyneema upper is extremely abrasion resistant. After running on trails and off-trail terrain littered with sharp rocks, the upper shows no signs of wear. Overall, these shoes feel overbuilt in the upper compared to typical trail running shoes, but they don’t weigh more than an average trail running shoe. This is a huge plus.  

They have rubber-reinforced toe and heel caps. The rubber from the soleplate wraps onto the heel and toe, adding durability by covering the midsole foam and connecting the outsole to the upper at the front and back of the shoe, where you rock over as you stride. A rubberized overlay also wraps around the entire shoe, above the midsole on the sides of the Dyneema upper. 

Outsole longevity

The Vibram Megagrip outsole is a relatively soft rubber, so it will wear out faster than some outsole materials. However, this is a common trade-off with trail shoes: the longer the outsole lasts, the less grippy it will be. That said, the Megagrip outsole on my norda 001A, which uses the same rubber compound as the 000, still has plenty of tread left after 400 miles on rough terrain. 

Price and Value

At $295 per pair, the 000 is expensive. But for long-lasting shoes that perform this well, you might wear through two pairs of shoes that don’t feel as good in the time you’d wear out one pair of these shoes. 

Features

Volume

The 000 runs small, so it has lower-than-average volume. I wear a full size larger in these shoes than I typically wear. Once I’ve sized up a full size, they feel roomy through the toe box and midfoot without feeling sloppy. 

Weight

The 000 weighs 8.92 oz in women’s size 8 and 10.37 oz in men's size 8.5. 

Stack Height

The 000 has a 26mm stack height in the heel and 21mm in the forefoot.

eTPU Insole

The insoles are made with eTPU (Expanded Thermoplastic Polyurethane). It is a high-performance particle foam made by expanding closed-cell TPU beads using heat and pressure (a process similar to popping popcorn). This process creates a lightweight, highly elastic material that blends the toughness of plastic with the flexibility of rubber.

Vibram Stream Flow Midsole Technology

The 000 features a Vibram Stream Flow Midsole, the first of its kind used in any shoe. This responsive, light, and resilient midsole performs like a supercritical foam but doesn’t compress as quickly.

Vibram Megagrip Soleplate with Litebase

The outsole features a full-coverage Vibram Megagrip outsole with Litebase technology. Litebase technology makes the outsole rubber lighter without sacrificing durability. 

Padded Heel Collar

The 000 has a structured and padded heel collar to lock your heel in place. 

Norda Fit Lock System

The laces attach to loops at the top of an inner foot sleeve, which wraps around your midfoot and holds it in place. 

Dyneema Laces

The laces are made with 100% recycled Dyneema, which is incredibly strong and has a higher abrasion resistance than standard shoelace materials.  

Bio-circular Dyneema Upper

The Dyneema used in the 000 upper is made with waste by-products from the timber and pulp industries. These wood by-products are mixed with conventional feedstock to create ethylene, the primary ingredient in ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber. The result is the world’s first Dyneema made without fossil fuels. 

Reflective Material

There are two reflective strips on the toe and a reflective logo on the outside near the heel. If you’ll be running in the dark, check out additional safety gear in our Best Reflective Gear for Running in the Dark guide.

Sustainability/ethical company

The 000 uses an upper made of wood-based Dyneema fabric. No fossil fuels went into the upper. Norda prides itself on making the most durable shoes possible, and a shoe that lasts longer is more sustainable.  

Collaboration with Black Diamond

The norda 000 is made as part of an ongoing mountain running collaboration with Black Diamond. This norda x Black Diamond collection also includes:

• a new version of the Distance 15 Pack made with ultralight, waterproof Challenge Sailcloth UltraWeave 100D

• the Distance Carbon Z FKT poles

• a Mini Mission Duffle 30L made with Challenge Sailcloth UltraWeave 400D fabric

• a MiniWire Carabiner

• a t-shirt

• a running cap.

Should you buy the norda 000?

Buy if you're looking for a very durable trail shoe for trail running, thru-hiking, and mountain scrambling that performs like a long-distance racing shoe but lasts much longer.

Skip if you want a more cushioned, higher-stack shoe, or don't want to pay nearly $300 for a pair of shoes (even if it will last longer than average trail runners). 

Where to buy the norda 000

Currently, the norda 000 trail running shoes are available on norda’s and Black Diamond’s websites.

Black Diamond

Men’s and Women’s

Similar trail running shoes

norda 000 vs. norda 001A

Men's and Women's

Cushion: Moderate
Stability: Neutral
Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm): 5 mm
Stack Height: 26 - 21 mm
Lugs: 5 mm
Weight (pair): 19 oz (men’s), 16.4 oz (women’s)

The norda 000 and 001A have the same stack height and outsole. The 000 uses a Vibram Stream Flow midsole, while the 001A uses an Arnitel TPEE midsole. The 000 also has a lot more padding around the heel and ankle collar than the 001A. It’s hard to compare the two midsoles because my pair of 001A has over 400 miles and my pair of 000 has only 100 miles, but I think the 000 feels a little quicker than the 001A. The 000 also fits slightly smaller than the 001A.

norda 001A

norda 000 vs. La Sportiva Prodigio Pro

Men's and Women's

Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm): 6 mm
Stack Height: 34 - 28 mm
Lugs: 5 mm
Weight (pair): 17.8 oz (men’s), 15.8 oz (women’s)

The 000 feels similar to the Prodigio Pro in fit and feel at first. However, the 000 feels firmer through the midsole, while the Prodigio Pro feels slightly bouncier. The Prodigio Pro won’t last as long as the 000, either. Though both shoes have very durable uppers, the Prodigio Pro's midsole will compress faster than the 000's. The Prodigio Pro costs $70 less than the norda 000.

The Prodigio Pro won our Editor’s Choice Gear of the Year Award in 2025.

La Sportiva Prodigio Pro

norda 000 vs. Brooks Cascadia Elite

Cushion: Maximum
Stability: Neutral
Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm): 6 mm
Stack Height: 40 - 34 mm
Lugs: 5 mm
Weight (pair): 18.8 oz (unisex)

The Brooks Cascadia Elite is the souped-up version of the well-loved Brooks Cascadia trail running shoes. They have an upgraded midsole made with 100% PEBA (polyether block amide) DNA GOLD midsole foam, a nitrogen-infused superfoam that is extremely light, cushioned, and springy. The Cascadia Elite also has a Vibram Megagrip Elite outsole for grip, and a Matryx engineered woven upper with Kevlar fibers for added durability. 

The Cascadia Elite feels more like what you’d expect a supershoe to feel like—that is, light, springy, and quick. But that midsole will lose its luster after about 150 miles. It will still last 200-300 more miles, but it will have lost its initial pop. The Cascadia Elite costs $20 less than the norda 000.

Brooks Cascadia Elite

norda 000 vs. Merrell MTL SpeedARC Peak

Cushion: Moderate
Stability: Neutral
Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm): 6 mm
Stack Height: 32 - 26 mm
Lugs: 4 mm
Weight (pair): 10.5 oz (men’s), 10.5 oz (women’s)

The Merrell MTL SpeedARC Peak is a carbon-plated trail supershoe for race days. If you’re a sub-elite athlete looking to take the next step to get sponsored by seriously performing well at a race like the Leadville 100 or Western States 100, these are a shoe worth considering. However, the carbon plate isn’t ideal for daily training. 

The SpeedARC Peak has a PEBA Foam midsole, which combined with the carbon flexplate, propels you forward while providing excellent cushion on uneven terrain. It has a Vibram Megagrip outsole, like the 000, but the SpeedARC has exposed midsole foam on the tread, unlike the 000. It has a two-part midsole with dual-density FloatPro/PEBA. The SpeedARC also has a Matryx Upper for durability and abrasion resistance. The 000 feels more like a fast shoe, while the SpeedARC feels like a super light and fast shoe. The SpeedARC Peak cannot handle terrain as technical as the norda 000 can.

Merrell MTL SpeedARC Peak

Why You Should Trust Us / About The Author

Sam Schild is a thru-hiker, trail runner, cyclist, and mountain athlete based in Colorado. He's been a runner since childhood, when he ran five days a week as cardiovascular training for soccer. As he grew older, he stopped playing team sports and focused on running and cycling. Sam tests men’s running shoes for Treeline Review and wrote the men’s Trail Running Shoes, Road Running Shoes, and Gravel Running Shoes guides. 

After moving to Colorado a decade ago, he started trail running on the local trails. Since then, he has completed countless ultra-distance self-supported trail runs across Colorado and the American Southwest. He has thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Appalachian Trail, Pacific Northwest Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, Arizona Trail, the Hayduke Trail, and the Colorado Trail twice, always in trail running shoes.

You can read more about Sam on his author page, website, or Instagram.

August 25th, 2026
Home → Gear Reviews → Running

Our verdict

The Janji AFO Middle Shorts are ultralight and ultra-breathable shorts designed for everyday runs. These no-frills shorts have everything you need for daily runs without extra features that’ll weigh you down when it’s time for speed work. 

I tested the AFO Middle shorts alongside 13 other pairs of running shorts for our Best Men’s Running Shorts guide, and these shorts stood out as the most breathable. I tested them while running roads and trails in Colorado, in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 100°F, on hot June, July, and August runs. I wore them for short 3-mile runs on roads as well as longer 15-20-mile runs on a combination of paved roads, dirt roads, and rocky trails. I usually carried a few energy gels in the pockets, along with a car key. Even when running in near 100-degree temperatures, these shorts felt light and airy, and they never felt like the clothing item that was going to make us overheat. 

The AFO Middle shorts excel in breathability and comfort above all else. They’re made of a thin polyester material that feels softer and less slippery than traditional running shorts. They have an elastic waistband with ventilation holes, and an extremely breathable brief liner that doesn’t chafe on longer runs. Every touchpoint on these shorts is softer than on other running shorts. They make you stop and wonder why other shorts aren’t made of these same materials.

The biggest drawback of these shorts is that the rear zippered pocket doesn’t fit larger smartphones. I have a Google Pixel 10. While the pocket is just large enough for that 6” phone, it’s extremely difficult to fit it into the pocket while wearing the shorts. However, these shorts feel so light and airy that weighing them down with a heavy smartphone seems silly. If you typically carry your phone while you run, a handheld or running belt is a great solution. 

For a wildly breathable and all-around comfortable pair of running shorts for everyday training, check out the Janji AFO Middle Shorts. 

We create reader-supported, objective, independently-selected gear reviews. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Janji AFO Middle Short Specifications

• Price: $72

• Sizes: XS-XXL

• Inseam options: 5”, 7”

• Fit: Relaxed

• Fabric: outer: 88% recycled polyester, 12% elastane; liner: 94% polyester, 6% spandex

• Weight: 3.7oz

• Liner: Yes, brief 

• Pockets: 2

• Phone pocket: Yes

• Waistband: Perforated elastic

• Split: No

• Gusseted crotch: Yes

• Quick-dry: Yes

• Reflective elements: No

Comparison table

Best for

• Daily training

• Road and track runs

• Minimalist runners who don’t need a lot of pockets

• Hot weather running

What we liked

• Very breathable material

• Perforated soft elastic waistband

• Fabric dries quickly

• Lightweight design feels fast

• Liner doesn’t cause discomfort during runs

• Key loop in inner pocket securely holds a key

What could be better

• Rear phone pocket could be larger

• Inner pocket doesn’t hold much

How we tested

I tested the AFO Middle Short running shorts in Colorado during the summertime, running roads and trails in hot conditions. I wore them in temperatures ranging from 60° to 100°F, on runs ranging from 3 miles to 20 miles. I ran on Colorado dirt roads, to mountain summits, and on paved surfaces in between the farther-off destinations. 

For every run, I carried a few energy gels in the pockets as well as a car key. After running in these shorts, I continued wearing them all day to further assess their comfort and breathability. I used them as a swimsuit, I slept in them, and I cooked dinner in them to really get a sense of how they performed. 

On one particularly hot day in Boulder, Colorado, I biked to a trailhead, ran a 10-mile loop to a local mountain summit, then biked back home. Though it was 100 degrees as I was biking back, and I was absolutely drenched in sweat, these shorts never felt like they were causing me to overheat, nor did they get very wet. They didn’t get heavy, even as sweat continued dripping down my back onto them. After the run, I jumped in the shower with the shorts on, wrung them out, put them back on, and continued wearing them the rest of the day. They’re the ideal hot-weather shorts. 

I’ve washed the Janji AFO Middle shorts countless times over the three-month testing period. After washing, they still perform as well. The material is still comfortable and stretchy, and there is no pilling on the fabric face. 

We also tested these shorts alongside others in our Best Men’s Road Running Shorts and Best Men’s Trail Running Shorts guides.

Performance in the field

Fit and movement

The Janji AFO Middle Shorts fit well, and the stretch material ensures they won’t be too tight for people with larger thighs, either. I’m 5’9,” 165 pounds, and have bigger than average thighs. These shorts feel light and airy, and never feel restrictive. 

They’re made with stretchy polyester material that’s 88% recycled polyester and 12% elastane. This material doesn’t restrict your movement in any way. On uphills, the shorts don’t ride up your thighs. When you’re working hard and sweating a lot, they don’t stick to your legs. And they don’t bunch up near your hip joints when stretching after the run, either.

Liner performance

The AFO Middle shorts have an incredibly soft and comfortable mesh liner made of 94% polyester and 6% spandex. Over countless runs during a three-month testing period, I’ve never experienced any chafing or discomfort from this liner. I’ve worn these on marathon-distance runs without any issue. 

This liner stretches with you as you move, and the small mesh vent holes cause it to breathe really well. It doesn’t absorb moisture, and no matter how much I sweat it doesn’t seem to get very wet. If it does get wet, it dries very quickly. 

Waistband behavior

The 1.5-inch waistband is made with soft, perforated elastic. This waistband is very comfortable, and is the most unique aspect of these shorts. I’ve never seen an elastic waistband with vent holes in the elastic, let alone a perforated elastic waistband that’s this soft. 

The waistband doesn’t feel like the stiff, sharp-edged elastic you may be familiar with. It has soft edges, and the perforating helps keep you cool underneath. Some shorts cause me to sweat right under the waistband, where they don’t breathe as well, but these don’t create a hot strip at the waist. 

The shorts have drawstring loops around the waistband, below the perforated elastic. The drawstring is actually two strings that secure above the rear pocket and wrap around each side of the waist, so you can’t pull the drawstring out. If the drawstring is tied tightly, you can’t access the pocket inside the liner, though you can still access the rear zippered pocket. 

Pocket usability

The Janji AFO Middle shorts have two pockets: one sewn into the inner lining and one zippered pocket just below the waistband on the outside back. If you’re looking for a pair of shorts with tons of pocket space, these aren’t it. However, we think these shorts are great for road running and other runners who don’t use the pockets in their running shorts to hold much. 

Janji claims that the outside rear zippered pocket is a phone pocket, and that pocket can fit my Google Pixel 10 with a thin silicone case, but if the pocket were slightly larger it would be easier to use. 

The pocket built into the liner sits just below the waistband and drawstring tie, in the front of the shorts. I find this placement odd, but I guess it makes sense to balance out the zippered pocket on the center of the shorts in the back. Either way, this pocket has a shock cord loop with a small locking plastic carabiner. This small detail makes it easier to securely carry a key while still being able access to the zippered pocket without having to worry about dropping your key. 

Breathability and heat management

The AFO Middle shorts breathe extremely well in hot conditions. I’ve worn them in 100-degree heat in the high desert of Colorado, and on road runs in the vast expanse of pavement that is the Colorado Front Range. 

In hot weather, I never feel like I’m overheating because of these shorts. They don’t retain heat, and the fabric allows air to flow through it. On a windy ridge, you can feel the air moving through the material, including the liner and waistband, which helps keep you cool in hot conditions. 

Chafe prevention

The AFO Middle shorts haven’t caused any chafing on my legs after hundreds of miles. The outer shorts fabric is sewn with flat-locked seams, and bottom hem is bonded rather than sewn to reduce abrasive stitching. The inner liner has soft thread wrapped around the elastic edges to hold the liner in place while you run. 

They have a gusseted crotch, which means they have two seams on the inside of each thigh. But this gusset is four inches wide, which is larger than the gusset on many running shorts. This means the inner thigh seams aren’t directly in the center, and therefore don’t rub directly against your thighs as you run. And since they’re sewn with flat-lock seams and soft thread, there are no sharp edges to cause chafing. 

Durability

During a three-month testing period, I’ve worn the AFO Middle shorts for hundreds of hours over countless runs. After three months, they still look like new. And they’re backed by a 5-year guarantee against defects in workmanship or material. 

The fabric doesn’t break down easily, and the 88% polyester, 12% elastane material doesn’t lose its stretch in the wash or dryer. The outer fabric is durable enough to wear in rough conditions that you’d find while trail running, or while sitting on the pavement to stretch before and after your run. The inner lining doesn’t break down quickly, either. 

I’ve washed these shorts more times than I can count, and they look like they did when new every time they come out of the wash. I typically wash them on a delicate cycle and dry on low heat, but I’ve washed them in laundromat washer and dryers that didn’t seem to provide much temperature control. Nonetheless, the elastic waistband, outer fabric, and lining is still stretchy. There is no pilling on the outer material, either. 

Features

Built-in liner 

They have a built-in brief-style liner made with 94% polyester, 6% spandex mesh. 

Elastic waistband with drawcord

They have a 1.5-inch elastic waistband with perforated vent holes. They also have a drawcord that ties below the band on the outside of the shorts. 

Zip and stretch pockets

They have an exterior zipper pocket that’s large enough for most smartphones. There is also a stretch pocket sewn into the inner lining, in the middle front. The liner pocket is large enough for a key, credit card, and an energy gel. It also has a keep loop with a small plastic carabiner to secure your key. 

Phone pocket

The rear zip pocket on the outside of the shorts is large enough for up to a 6” Google Pixel 10 with a silicone case. The zippered opening is smaller than the pocket itself, so it takes some finagling to get the phone into the pocket. But, the pocket material itself is stretchy, so once you’ve worked the pocket through the zippered opening, it will hold your phone. For a larger phone like the Google Pixel 10, it’s just not quite as convenient.

Lightweight fabric

The AFO Middle shorts are made with Janji’s own AFO fabric, which is 88% recycled polyester and 12% elastane. This fabric breathes well and stretches with you as you move. 

Quick-dry material

They’re made with quick-dry material. Even when I used them as a swimsuit, they don’t absorb much moisture, so they barely feel wet after getting dunked in water. Since they don’t absorb much moisture, they also dry incredibly quickly. 

Gusseted crotch

They have a gusseted crotch that gives you more leg room and moves the inner thigh seams away from the center of the shorts, where your inner thigh may rub against each other. This helps reduce risk of chafing. 

Reflective elements

The logo on the right thigh reflects light, but there are no other reflective elements on these shorts. If wearing these in low-light scenarios such as early morning or evening runs, we recommend pairing them with accessories from our best reflective running gear guide for added safety and visibility.

Sustainability

Janji uses fabric that is primarily recycled polyester. Their AFO material is 88% recycled polyester and 12% elastane. The liner material doesn’t contain recycled materials. 

Janji also has a 5-year Run Everywhere Guarantee, which backs any of their products against defects in construction or materials for five years. They also strive to use as little virgin plastic as possible in their garments. Working to make long-lasting products out of recycled materials is a win-win for sustainability. Also, since 2020, all of their primary fabrics have been certified by Bluesign, OEKO-TEX, and RWS (Responsible Wool Standard). 

You can read more about Janji’s social and environmental goals online. 

Should you buy the Janji AFO Middle running shorts?

Buy if:

• You run shorter distances on road or track

• You run on varied terrain with a running vest

• You prefer a 5” or 7” inseam

• You don’t care about tons of pockets on your shorts

• You want shorts with a comfortable and breathable liner

• You need a very breathable pair of shorts

Skip if:

• You want a shorter than 5” inseam

• You don’t want a liner and are opposed to cutting the lining out of your shorts

• You need more pocket capacity

Where to buy

The Janji AFO Middle Running Short running shorts are popular, so you have some options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.

REI

Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.

View at REI button

Janji

You can sometimes find more options when purchasing directly from the manufacturer. Sometimes, purchasing directly from the retailer can make it easier if you need to make a warranty return due to a defect.

View at retailer button

Advice on where to buy

In general for apparel, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns, like REI. If your funds allow, many people find it is faster to order two sizes and return whichever one didn't fit as well. Additionally, check reviews to see whether other users recommend sizing up or down.

Similar running shorts

Janji AFO Middle Shorts vs. rabbit FKT Shorts

Price: $75
Sizes: S-XL
Inseam options: 
Fit: Regular
Liner: Yes
Pockets: 9
Phone pocket: Yes
Waistband: 2”
Reflective elements: No

The rabbit FKT shorts are a super comfortable pair of running shorts with a very different pocket layout compared to the Janji AFO Middle. The outer shorts material on the FKT shorts feels unlike most running shorts, including the AFO Middle shorts, and that’s a really good thing. The FKT shorts material feels like a knit fabric, while the AFO Middle shorts feel smooth and soft. 

The FKT shorts have two stretch pockets on the outside of each hip and a rear zippered pocket that’s large enough for a 6” smartphone. I can easily carry a phone in the FKT rear zippered pocket, whereas the AFO Middle’s rear zippered pocket is more difficult to use with my phone (though it does fit). If you prefer lots of pockets on the outside of your shorts, you might like the FKT shorts more, but the AFO Middle shorts are lighter and more breathable. The FKT shorts cost about the same as the AFO Middle shorts, too. 

Learn more in our in-depth review of the rabbit FKT running shorts.

Janji AFO Middle vs. Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts

Price: $89-95
Sizes: XS-XL
Inseam options: 
Fit: Regular
Liner: Yes
Pockets: 5
Phone pocket: —
Waistband: 1”
Gusseted crotch: 
Reflective elements: Reflective logo

The Patagonia Strider Pro shorts are my long-time favorite trail running and backpacking shorts. They’re also the overall winner in our Best Men’s Trail Running Shorts guide. 

The Strider Pro shorts have two stretch pockets on each hip, each large enough to hold several energy gels. The Strider Pro’s rear zippered pocket isn’t large enough for a smartphone, though, unlike the AFO Middle. The Strider Pro shorts also cost almost $20 more than the AFO Middle shorts, though they come with Patagonia’s lifetime warranty. 

If you want stretchy shorts that prioritize lightweight design and breathability but still have a large enough zippered pocket to carry your phone, you should go with the Janji AFO Middle. If you want shorts with exterior pockets and don’t care about having a large smartphone pocket, the Strider Pro shorts are worth considering. 

Learn more in our in-depth review of the Patagonia Strider Pro running shorts.

Janji AFO Middle Shorts vs. Tracksmith Twilight Shorts 

Price:
Sizes: 
Inseam options: 
Fit: Regular
Liner: Yes
Pockets: 
Phone pocket: 
Waistband: 1”
Gusseted crotch: 
Reflective elements: No

The Tracksmith Twilight shorts are another pair of incredibly comfortable shorts made with very light and breathable material. The thin, lightweight, knit material never feels hot, wet, or slippery, no matter how far you run in these shorts. The Twilight Shorts are made with a similarly stretchy material as the rabbit FKT shorts, and feel unlike the slippery material on most running shorts, such as the AFO Middle. I think the material used on the Twilight shorts feels super unique, and very comfortable, but the AFO material feels lighter, more breathable, and dries quicker. 

The Twilight shorts have three pockets sewn into the backside of the inner liner and an exterior zipper pocket in the back as well. The Twilight shorts cost about the same amount as the AFO Middle shorts, too. 

Learn more in our in-depth review of the Tracksmith Twilight running shorts.

Why you should trust us / About the author

Sam Schild is a thru-hiker, runner, cyclist, and mountain athlete based in a converted van across the American Southwest. He’s been a runner since he was a child, when he ran five days a week as cross-training for soccer. As he grew older, he stopped playing team sports and focused on running and cycling. Sam wrote our Men’s Road Running Shorts guide and has tested loads of other running gear for Treeline Review.  

Sam regularly runs five days or more per week. He has completed countless ultra-distance, self-supported trail runs across the American Southwest. He has thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Appalachian Trail, Arizona Trail, Pacific Northwest Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, Hayduke Trail, and the Colorado Trail twice, always in running shorts.

You can read more about Sam on his author page, website, or Instagram.

August 25th, 2026
Home > Gear Reviews > Electronics

Our verdict

The Suunto Race 2 is a solid GPS watch option for those who spend more time on dirt than on city sidewalks. Rather than trying to outsmart competitive watches, the Race 2 doubles down on features that made it competitive in the first place, including accurate GPS tracking, a long battery life, and intuitive navigation. The result is a watch that feels intentional and easy to use in remote places. 

The stainless-steel version of the Race 2 has a $499 price point, which makes it significantly more affordable than watches like the Garmin fēnix 8. Yet it offers many of the same outdoor navigational tools, sapphire crystal protection, a dual-band GNSS, and offline maps. Its lengthy battery time in GPS mode also makes it a standout watch. 

We’ll be the first to admit that the Race 2 isn’t the best smartwatch available. It isn’t even the most feature-rich sports watch that you can find. We found that this watch took time to get to know its owner, and that you have to regularly calibrate it for the distance to become accurate. But it still provides one of the best values for serious outdoor athletes due to its bright display, battery life, offline mapping and navigation tools, accurate GPS tracking, and comfort.

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Suunto Race 2 GPS Watch specifications

Display: 1.5-inch AMOLED
Weight: 76 grams
MSRP: $499 
Touchscreen: Yes
Solar charging: No
Glass: Sapphire crystal
Battery life using GPS: Up to 55 hours in performance GPS mode
Battery life for daily use only: Up to 18 days
GPS: Yes
Altimeter: Yes
Compass: Yes
Barometer: Yes
Navigation: Yes
Mapping: Yes (offline)
Offline map storage: 32 GB
Heart rate sensor: Yes
Blood Oxygen: Yes
Water resistance: 100 meters
Watch band: Silicone
Charging cable: Suunto proprietary magnetic cable
Smartphone compatibility: iOS and Android
Warranty: Two years from purchase

Comparison table

Best for

• Long-distance hiking or backpacking trips

• Remote traverses that require reliable navigation

• People who will utilize multiple sport modes (e.g., hiking, running, mountain biking, etc.)

What we liked

• Outstanding battery life in conjunction with bright AMOLED display

• Screen is easy to read even in direct sunlight

• Offline topographic maps require no subscription

• Sapphire crystal glass

• Competitive price

• Over 100 sports modes

What could be better

• Clasp is prone to coming undone

• Easily one of the biggest and heaviest watches we’ve tested

• Sleep tracking can struggle to identify wake periods

• The watch takes a while to get to know the user

• Magnetic charging system is prone to slipping

• Some gym readings are prone to inconsistent tracking

What's new with the Suunto Race 2 GPS watch

Compared to the original Race, the Race 2 addresses nearly every common criticism, including the optical heart rate sensor, the processor, and the display. Instead of focusing on flashy features, Suunto enhanced many of the Suunto Race’s existing components. The optical heart rate sensor was redesigned in the newest model, most runners found that the processor is noticeably faster, and the display is bigger and brighter for a smoother interface experience. The result is a more polished watch than its predecessor. 

Offline maps 

Like the original Suunto Race, the Race 2 comes with access to free offline topographic maps that can be downloaded through the Suunto app. The Race 2 also comes with a slightly bigger display screen, which is most noticeably advantageous while navigating maps on the run. The additional screen real estate makes it easier to see features like contour lines, junctions, and trail labels without constant zooming and panning. Route planning remains identical across both models. 

Lighter and smaller profile

Despite the Suunto Race 2’s bigger display, the overall case design creates decent weight distribution in order to maintain all-day comfort. Weighing 76 grams, it’s not the lightest GPS watch on the market. And we found that its top-heavy structure still made it prone to slipping during intense workouts, which was one of the most noticeable drawbacks of the watch. 

Larger display

The AMOLED display measures 1.5 inches, making it one of the biggest screens available on an outdoor GPS watch. 

Updated UI/software improvements

The Suunto Race 2 comes with a new processor that’s generally more responsive. While earlier models occasionally felt sluggish while loading maps, the Race 2 feels more in alignment with premium Garmin watches in terms of speed. Like most GPS watches, Suunto also continues to offer firmware updates over time. 

Battery life enhancements

One of the Suunto Race 2’s biggest strengths is its battery life, which impressed us throughout testing. While using this watch like a standard everyday smartwatch, the battery lasted more than two weeks on a single charge with frequent use. In Performance GPS mode, it boasts up to 55-hours per charge, 90 hours in Endurance mode, and 200 hours in Tour mode. While using this watch for our daily one-hour workouts, it consistently lasted about a week and a half on a single charge. 

Suunto Race vs Race 2

Owners of the original Suunto Race watch complained about sluggish menus and an inconsistent optical heart rate tracker. But the Race 2 comes with meaningful improvements in these areas. 

Display

The original Suunto Race came with a 1.43-inch display, while the Suunto Race 2 has a 1.5-inch display. The resolution is the same 466 x 466 pixels across both watches, although the pixel density is slightly lower in the Suunto Race 2 (311 ppi compared to 326 ppi). The official brightness of the original Race isn’t officially published, but the Race 2 features 2,000-nit peak brightness, and most athletes found a noticeable improvement compared with the original watch. 

Visibility

The Suunto Race’s visibility left something to be desired in sunny trail conditions, while the Suunto Race 2 maintained visibility throughout a range of conditions including midday sun in Colorado, dusk and dawn, and indoors. 

Always-on display options

Both models feature always-on display options with no significant change coming to the Suunto Race 2 watch. 

Battery life

One of the Suunto Race 2’s strongest features is its generous battery life. On paper, this watch claims to last up to 18 days in smartwatch mode, 55 hours in performance mode (all-systems GNSS plus multiband), 200 hours in tour mode (power-saving GNSS mode), and 30 days in standby time mode. In reality, these estimates proved to be pretty accurate, which gives it more longevity than the popular Garmin fenix 8 AMOLED watch, which comes with 16 days of smartwatch use, 47 hours in GPS only mode, 81 hours in max battery GPS mode, and 23 days in battery saver mode.

While the Suunto Race 2 strikes a competitive balance, Garmin watches like the fēnix 8 AMOLED have more battery management options, which makes it easier to customize battery drain. 

Notably, COROS still maintains an advantage when it comes to GPS-mapped and standard battery longevity—especially across the APEX series. The standard APEX 4 setting gives you 24 days of use, 65 hours in endurance mode, and 41 hours in dual-frequency mode. But Suunto stands out with a brighter display and a more polished mapping experience overall. 

Real-world testing results

Unlike some AMOLED watches that lose battery as soon as you switch on navigational tools, the Race 2 offers a remarkably efficient sports watch option while backpacking, trail running, and endurance training in the mountains. We predominantly tested the Suunto Race 2 on long day-hikes and trail runs and found that even after multiple hours of GPS-enabled usage, the battery percentage barely budged. 

Charging speed

A full charge takes just over an hour on the Suunto Race 2, compared to just under 2 hours for the COROS APEX 4, and 60 to 135 minutes for the Garmin fēnix 8.

GPS accuracy, tracking performance, and navigation

Suunto built a reputation surrounding quality GPS performance a long time ago, and the Race 2 continues to validate this reality. This watch consistently produced clean GPS tracks with minimal wandering, making it a solid option for remote adventures. 

Multi-GNSS capabilities

The Race 2 supports all major satellite constellations including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, and QZSS. Instead of solely relying on GPS, the Race 2 can communicate with a series of satellite networks to improve accuracy, which is especially valuable in mountain and canyon environments that block the sky. While testing in Colorado’s Front Range, we found that it often took a moment for the Race 2 to find a signal, but once the watch had a signal, it seemed to easily maintain it. 

Dual-frequency GPS 

The Race 2 also supports dual-frequency GNSS, which allows it to receive both L1 and L5 satellite signals. These frequencies help the watch reduce errors caused by reflected satellite signals, which is a common issue in dense forests, urban areas, and narrow canyons. 

GPS accuracy

After about four months of testing, we found the GPS accuracy of the Suunto Race 2 to be one of its strongest attributes. Whether hiking above 13,000 feet in Colorado, cycling on paved roads in Tennessee, or paddling the river, the recorded tracks closely followed our route. Elevation profiles also seemed to mimic existing trail data. 

In more challenging terrain like steep drainages and tree-covered routes, the watch maintained relatively smooth tracks with little zig-zagging. But urban jogging produced a few small deviations around tall buildings. 

Offline maps

One of the biggest perks of wearing a watch like the Suunto Race 2 is its offline maps. Unlike the breadcrumb-only navigation that many GPS watches utilize, the Race 2 allows you to download detailed topographic maps through the app that show trail networks, roads, contours, rivers and lakes, and points of interest. These maps always loaded quickly and maintained their responsiveness even while zooming and panning. And, while most of the time, we prefer a watch with a smaller face, the large AMOLED display comes in handy while reading maps. 

Route planning and importing

Athletes can create routes in the Suunto app or on third-party platforms like Strava and Komoot. Once you sync your watch with the app of your choice, routes automatically appear on the watch, making it one of the most straightforward downloading options available. 

Breadcrumb navigation

The Race 2 supports traditional breadcrumb navigation, which can be useful in familiar territory where you don’t necessarily need a full topographic map. 

Turn-by-turn directions

This watch also offers turn-by-turn notifications before you reach intersections. This can help to reduce the need to regularly check the map to ensure that you don’t make a wrong turn.

Real-world navigation testing

Navigation was one of the Race 2’s strongest features. We regularly relied on offline maps while hiking in Montana and Colorado. The routes were easy to follow, consistent, and helpful during reroutes. 

Sport modes and training features

The Race 2 includes 100+ sport profiles, with most conventional options readily available pre-installed. Adventurers can easily navigate everything from trail running and cycling to rock climbing, skiing, and strength training. 

Activity profiles

We laughed out loud while we were scrolling through the Race 2’s massive collection of sport modes. Deep in the menu, we found one setting of particular interest: Mermaiding. Now, we can’t say for sure what kind of data the mermaiding setting tracks, but its sheer existence had us in stitches. 

In addition to this iconic setting, the Suunto Race 2 also contained an array of conventional sport modes. And adventurers can create custom sport modes through the Suunto app, which can be helpful if you want to incorporate a secondary setting like intervals in your standard run setting. 

Training load and recovery metrics

Like most Garmin and COROS watches, the Suunto Race 2 tracks both training and recovery. This watch monitors training loads, but it also evaluates recovery, training stress, heart rate variability, recovery variability, and weekly volume to better help athletes monitor overall health and burnout potential. While Garmin tends to provide more in-depth physiological data, Suunto’s metrics are straightforward and easy to understand. 

Workout suggestions

The Race 2 gives athletes daily workout recommendations utilizing recent activity, recovery status, and overall training load to make suggestions. Suggestions aren’t quite as extensive as Garmin Coach, but they offer general guidelines to help athletes progress without teetering around burnout. 

Race-day features

This watch also includes a number of features that are specifically designed for races, including structured workouts, pacing tools, real-time elevation, estimated finish times, nutrition and hydration reminders, and split tracking. 

Heart rate zones and training insights

Like most smartwatches, the Race 2 automatically tracks your heart rate while you wear it—even if you’re not actively engaged in a workout. This is a particularly helpful tool for athletes who are attempting to use intuitive training. 

Health and wellness tracking

The Suunto Race 2 incorporates a number of features to allow athletes to monitor general health and wellness. 

Heart rate monitor

The original Suunto Race used an optical heart rate sensor that used a standard arrangement of green LEDs and photodiodes to detect changes in blood volume. But the Race 2 incorporates a redesigned sensor module with more LEDs and updated algorithms to offer better accuracy during intervals, strength workouts, and activities that involve a lot of wrist movement. 

Sleep tracking

The Race 2 records sleep duration, stages, consistency, and overnight heart rate. The presentation of this information is easy to understand, and it can be helpful to utilize while training. But compared to devices like the WHOOP and the COROS APEX 4, we found the data to be inconsistent and not always accurate. It seemed to struggle to detect restless nights and wake times. 

Stress and recovery monitoring

Stress and recovery monitoring rely heavily on heart rate variability and resting heart rate trends. The Race 2’s stress and recovery monitoring is displayed in a straightforward and easy-to-understand format, but we were a little skeptical about the overall metrics, which suggested we were consistently fatigued while our WHOOP and COROS APEX 4 showed different metrics. 

Blood oxygen monitoring

The Race 2 incorporates an integrated pulse oximeter to evaluate blood oxygen saturation, which can be a helpful tool while you’re recreating at high elevations. 

Smart features

The Suunto Race 2 is predominantly a performance GPS watch. But it also includes a number of convenient, everyday features that make it feel like a standard smartwatch. 

Notification handling

Athletes can pair the Race 2 with a compatible iPhone or Android phone to display calls, texts, calendar reminders, and email notifications. Admittedly, we bypassed this option since we prefer to keep notifications on our phones only. But the option to pair them is available, and athletes who like to see notifications on their watch can expect to easily see them on the bright display. 

Music control (no onboard storage)

This watch also incorporates media controls, but it doesn’t offer on-watch music storage (which means that it has to be connected to your phone to use). 

Suunto app integration

The Race 2 easily pairs with the Suunto app, which allows athletes to customize the watch experience by switching watch faces, adjusting sport profiles, downloading maps, reviewing workout history, creating routes, and updating firmware. The Bluetooth syncing is straightforward and easy, and workouts appear in the app almost immediately after finishing the activity. 

The app interface is clean, uncluttered, and easy to understand. The home screen provides snapshots of essential data like recent workouts, training volume, recovery, sleep data, daily activity, and your routes. Throughout our four months of testing, we found data syncing to be almost immediate, with our activities uploading automatically within a minute or two of finishing a workout. 

Offline maps and routes also quickly transferred to the watch, although larger downloads required more time. Finally, while Suunto’s app doesn’t have the same social ecosystem as apps like Strava, it does contain community-oriented tools like shareable workouts, and recommended adventures. 

Compared to the Garmin and COROS apps, Suunto’s app is slightly less comprehensive than the Garmin app, and slightly more comprehensive than the COROS app. 

Third-party app compatibility

While many athletes use the Suunto app as their main platform, the Suunto Race 2 is also compatible with Strava, TrainingPeaks, Komoot, Adidas Running, Relive, Final Surge and Ride with GPS, which allows you to sync with the platform of your choice and maintain existing training logs. Komoot and GPX are particularly helpful for planning hikes and trail runs. 

Weather

When connected to your smartphone, the Race 2 can upload the latest weather conditions, daily weather forecasts, storm alerts, barometric pressure trends, sunrise and sunset times, and altitude-adjusted weather information. 

How we tested

We wore the Suunto Race 2 for about four months while hiking, cycling, running, and weightlifting. The bulk of our testing took place in Colorado’s foothills with an occasional trip above 13,000 feet in alpine/mountain terrain. But we also tested the Race 2 while hiking in Montana, and cycling, spelunking, and hiking in Tennessee. Throughout the course of our testing, we directly compared the Suunto Race 2’s data with the WHOOP and the Coros APEX 4. We covered 150+ miles in conditions that ranged from the low 40s and dry to more than 90 degrees Fahrenheit and humid and wet. 

We also tested the Suunto Race 2 alongside other GPS watches in our Best GPS Watches for Hiking guide.

Should you buy the Suunto Race 2 GPS watch?

Buy if you regularly spend hours in the mountains without a cell signal, you prioritize battery life over features, or you’re looking for a solid multisport tracking device.

Skip if you prefer a lightweight watch with enhanced smartwatch functions, or you spend the majority of your time in the gym.

Where to buy the Suunto Race 2 GPS watch

The Suunto Race 2 GPS watch is a popular item, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.

REI

Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 90 days on electronics; 10% dividend for members.

Amazon

Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership (can be same-day delivery in major metropolitan cities)

Backcountry

Pros: Frequent sales for Expedition Perks members (free to join), fast shipping, Gearhead chat customer service is excellent

Advice on where to buy

In general for gear, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns, like REI. 

Other GPS watches to consider

The Suunto Race 2 is a solid GPS watch option for runners, hikers, and other mountain athletes. But it may not be for everyone. Here are some other options.

Suunto Race 2 vs. COROS APEX 4

MSRP: Starts at $429
Weight: 44-64 grams (depending on size and band)
Display: 1.3-inch monochrome memory-in-pixel (MIP) touchscreen
Battery Life: Up to 24 days smartwatch mode; up to 65 hours in GPS mode
Water Resistance: 5 ATM

If battery life and training analytics are your main priorities, the COROS APEX 4 is a serious competitor. Like the Race 2, this watch has a dual-frequency GPS, offline maps, and solid recovery metrics. But the COROS edges the Suunto’s battery life out. It’s also lighter and more compact. For more, read our review of the COROS APEX 4.

Suunto Race 2 vs. Garmin Instinct 3

MSRP: Starts at $350 (AMOLED) and $400 (solar)
Weight: ~53 grams (52 grams for solar version)
Display: Monochrome memory-in-pixel (MIP) or AMOLED
Battery Life: Up to 24 days (AMOLED) and up to 40 hours with GPS. The solar model can be unlimited.
Water Resistance: 10 ATM

The Garmin Instinct 3 is an extremely durable watch, easily outperforming most competitors. It also offers a solid battery life and a more affordable price point than most Garmin watches. Compared with the Race 2, the Instinct 3 slightly sacrifices display quality and mapping. But its rugged construction and lasting battery life make it a contender. For more, read our long-term review of the Garmin Instinct 3.

Suunto Race 2 vs. Garmin fenix 8

MSRP: Starts at $1,100
Weight: ~73-95 grams (depending on the model)
Display: AMOLED, solar monochrome memory-in-pixel (MIP), or MicroLED (Pro model)
Battery Life: Up to 10-29 days (AMOLED) 
Water Resistance: 10 ATM

The Garmin fēnix series is a benchmark for premium outdoor GPS watches due to its wide range of features, and quality metrics. Compared with the fēnix 8, the Race 2 offers similar GPS accuracy and navigation at a much lower price. But the Garmin offers a bigger training ecosystem and a feature-rich watch. For more, read our in-depth review of the Garmin fenix 8.

Why you should trust us / About the author

Mary Beth Skylis began her love affair with the outdoors with a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2015. Two years later she found herself backpacking the Annapurna Circuit and the Colorado Trail, dabbling in rock climbing, and chasing more challenging peaks. Her latest adventures have taken her across the globe to some of the most remote corners of the world where she regularly tests gear in the spirit of science.

She currently works as a columnist for Backpacker Magazine. She also has bylines in Climbing, Triathlete, SELF, REI, Alaska Magazine, Women’s Health, Outside Magazine, Trail Runner, 5280, Travel+Leisure, and Business Insider. 

Find more of her work on her Treeline Review author page.

August 25th, 2026, updated with a year's worth of testing notes to add new products and pricing, update commentary and insights, and remove discontinued products
Home > Gear Reviews > Apparel

Today, there are scores of brands making quality outdoor clothing and gear more appropriate for backpacking, hiking, or other activities outside in all seasons.

For those, who like myself, wear Big and Tall or extended sizes, it can still be hard to find the right gear which fits comfortably and will perform well in a variety of activities.

In this guide, I share what has worked for me and what to keep an eye out for when choosing Big and Tall outdoor apparel.

An issue I find with many big and tall outdoor clothes, and especially with technical gear, is that often companies seem to not really understand how to fit fat bodies. Often, they just blow all the dimensions up which can lead to clothes fitting in some areas but being far too baggy in other areas. This is due to how each individual wears their weight. Many, like me, wear their weight in their bellies, but their arms and legs are much smaller. Or, others wear it in the extremities, and still others wear it fairly evenly across their own bodies. 

This review of outdoor gear for big and tall bodies will focus on items that I feel work for bigger bodies and have the technical features adventurers like me need to do what we do outdoors. 

Related: Best Outdoor Gear for Plus Size and Big and Tall

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Clothing list

Bottoms: Pants and Shorts

One of the problems with most extended size clothing is that designers don’t seem to take into account a range of fat bodies. 

Often when I find pants that fit in the waist, they are much too baggy in the legs, which makes them both uncomfortable and cumbersome when hiking, and also ugly and unattractive looking on my body. 

These kind of fit issues are not typical in straight sizing men's hiking pants and men's hiking shorts. 

Here are the hiking pants and hiking shorts that work consistently on my body and fit well across the waist and legs.

Columbia Wanoga Lightweight Pants

Size: Standard 30 - 44 inches (waist), 30 - 34 inch (inseam); Big 42 - 54 inches (waist), 30 -34 inch (inseam)
Fit: True to size
Material: 94% nylon, 6% elastane
What we liked: Excellent feeling and looking fit, extremely breathable
What we didn't like: Only two colors available

Columbia is one company whose sizing seems to fit many different types of bodies, and these pants are no exception. I find these to be some of the most comfortable (and flattering!) hiking  pants I’ve tried. The fit is great. The waist has a drawstring to adjust the fit, as well as belt loops to keep them secure no matter the activity.

There are ample amounts of pockets, including a zippered security pocket and a reinforced knife clip pocket, and the legs roll up and secure with snaps and a tab. Unfortunately, these pants are only available in two colors (Flint Grey and Black) in their big sizes, but both are neutral colors and easy to wear with a variety of tops.

Like the other Columbia items on this list, these lightweight pants excel for hiking in hot weather as the 94% nylon, 6% elastane fabric is extremely breathable. They also have the Omni-Shield and Omni-Shade technologies to protect skin from UVA and UVB rays, as well as being water-wicking and quick-drying. 

I also tested them in cold weather and found them to work great with a pair of long johns or other long, warm underwear underneath. I was warm, but not too hot while being active.

Columbia Tech Trail Shorts

Sizes available: 42-54
Fit: True to size
Material: 96% polyester, 4% elastane
What we liked: Comfy fit, quick drying
What we didn't like: Belt loops can be a little tight for wide belts

I have been a fan of several pieces of gear from Columbia over the years —namely a very trusty pair of hiking boots and one of their fleece tops — and these shorts further cement them as a fantastic maker of outdoor clothing in my mind. Compared to other shorts I’ve tried over the years, these look sleeker as they don’t have cargo pockets like some others, and would look great off the trail as well.

They are comfy; roomy without being baggy and light without feeling fragile. They look structured, like a casual everyday short, but provide a generous stretch for any outdoor activity. The legs are cut fairly long, falling to a generous knee length, which can provide a little more protection when walking through overgrown mountain paths. Nestled inside the right pocket is an additional zippered security pocket for keeping small items safe and secure while being active in nature.

The fabric is 96% polyester and 4% elastane and utilizes Columbia’s Omni-Shield™, which repels water, is quick drying, and prevents liquids from absorbing into the yarns to resist staining. During my first test of them, they got slightly wet while wading into an alpine lake and I was surprised to find them completely dry in a matter of mere minutes. They also provide UPF 50 sun protection thanks to the Omni-Shade™ technology, which uses tightly constructed fabric with modified fibers to block UVA/UVB rays.

The shorts are breathable and kept me cool even when hiking in open sun on a warm day.

Tops and shirts

One problem with finding tops that fit right is that many tops, especially for men's hiking shirts, are cut very athletically, with a very tapered cut in the torso, which often does not feel or look comfortable on a person with a belly.  

Other athletic shirts, like men's running shirts, are sometimes cut too short and, again, on a person with a rounder stomach’s body, leave the skin on the stomach exposed, which is not ideal for staying covered when part of their design is also to provide sun protection.

Here are the men's hiking shirts that have a cut that is comfortable, stays in place, and keeps my body covered while offering sun protection and warmth from the cold.

REI Co-op Active Pursuits Long-Sleeve 

Size: SM - XXXL
Fit: May run slightly small
Material: 92% polyester, 8% spandex
What we liked: Very light and breathable fabric
What we didn't like: Regular version is slightly short in the torso

A good, breathable base layer can make all the difference when hiking or running in the heat. While short sleeves may seem like the best option, oftentimes, protecting the forearms from sun, underbrush, etc. is the best way to go.

I’ve owned the previous version of the Active Pursuits Long-Sleeve for almost two years now and it has served me extremely well in all sorts of environments. The updated version is cut slightly differently and now has 8% spandex in addition to the moisture-wicking polyester to give it just a little more stretch for staying comfortable while being active. It also meets the bluesign criteria for a Climate Neutral Certified brand. 

The seams are now flat, making it feel even softer and more comfortable while avoiding any chance of chafing. The new version also has hidden thumbholes that can provide comfort and warmth in inclement weather. Some user reviews do mention that the new fabric is slightly heavier and more clingy than the previous version.

Like many of the other items on this list, this shirt provides UPF protection (UPF 50+ in this case). The fit is snug in the arms and a little looser in the midsection, which fit me well. I do find it shorter in the torso than I’d personally like, although there is a tall version that would remedy that.

Ariat Rebar Gridwork Baselayer

Size: Standard XS - 4XL; Tall LT - 3XLT
Fit: True to size
Material: 97% Cotton, 3% Spandex
What we liked: Lots of useful features, warm
What we didn't like: Size only goes up to 3XLT

The Ariat Rebar Gridwork Baselayer is an amazingly versatile and feature-rich baselayer that excels in cold and windy conditions.

The 6 oz grid fleece is very soft and comfortable to wear and feels light enough for layering, yet still provides ample warmth and protection from the elements. Ariat's Dura-flex fabric stretches with the body no matter the activity. This makes it equally at home around the campfire or scaling a mountain. We tested the balaclava version, which is currently out of stock. But the non-balaclava version still offers the warmth, comfort, and protection we like.

What sets the Gridwork baselayer apart from other baselayers is its many features. The sleeves can extend over the hands and  have a thumb hole for protecting the hands from cold, and they also have a watch window to see the time without rolling the sleeves back up. All these features make it a really versatile baselayer that I think would be appropriate in most seasons and temperatures.

Columbia Thistletown Hills Short Sleeve Shirt

Size: Standard XS - XXL; Big 1X - 6X; Tall LT - 5XLT
Fit: Small
Material: 50% cotton, 50% recycled polyester
What we liked: Great colors available, extra soft material
What we didn't like: Fits smaller than other tops in identical sizes, no UVA/UVB protection

Good light technical shirts are fairly easy to find, even in big and tall sizes. With quite a few to choose from, Columbia makes one of my favorites. The Thistletown Hills short sleeve shirt is available in a wide variety of sizes and colors. While other companies have two or three colors to choose from, Columbia’s line has seven colors in their tall sizes, eight in their big sizes, and even more in their standard sizes.

The fabric is slightly thicker than some of the other shirts I’ve tried. It's designed for keeping cool while active, but with its 50% cotton/recycled polyester blend, it is softer than most. The Omni-Wick pulls moisture to the surface of the fabric for faster evaporation which gives it a cool, soft feel to the skin. 

One missing feature in comparison to many other similar items on the market is sun protection. The Thistletown Hills shirt does not provide any UVA or UVB protection, which may be a feature those who will be outside in the sun for many hours a day may miss. 

The cut is snug and I find it to cling to the body more than some other similar shirts, but overall found it to be comfortable. I generally wear a 3XL, but found their 3X big to be tighter than I would like. Online reviews are not definitive on this point, but many do mention that it runs small. I would recommend sizing up one size if a tighter, more clingy fit is not to one’s liking. 

REI Sahara Shade Short Sleeve T-shirt

Size: S - 3XL
Tall Sizes: M–XXL
Fit: True to size
Material: 55% polyester, 37% recycled polyester, 8% spandex
What we liked:  Looser cut than some similar shirts, UPF 30 sun protection
What we didn't like: Very plain

REI’s line of Sahara products are designed with sun protection in mind. The UPF 30 protection and very light material make it ideal for staying cool and dry on sunny summer days. Each year, REI releases this shirt in a variety of colors. I own it in several shades and find it to be an essential part of my spring and summer outdoor wardrobe.

My favorite aspect of this shirt is the cut. It’s cut more generously than the Columbia Thistledown or some other similar shirts, fitting loose, but still unobtrusive. It’s also available in several tall sizes for those with long torsos (back length is 29.1 in. for the L, 31.1 in. for L Tall).

The fabric is very soft and thin, while still feeling sturdy. I’ve owned one of these for a few years now and it has held up really well despite constant use, and the softness has never diminished after washing it many times. Like the other REI products on this list, the fabric is bluesign approved, meaning it contains materials that meet their criteria as well as contains recycled materials from a Climate Neutral Certified brand.

Otherwise the design is plain and no-nonsense. There are no pockets or prints, but the Sahara t-shirt performs in all the ways it's meant to, wicking sweat, stretching, and providing sun protection. It also has shoulder seams that are rolled forward to help prevent chafing under pack straps. 

Duluth Trading Co AKHG Mountain Stream Relaxed Fit Short Sleeve Shirt

Size:  Standard: SM - 3XL; Relaxed: SM - 2XL
Fit: True to size
Material: 65% polyester, 35% cotton fabric
What we liked: Easy to move around in, UPF 40 sun protection
What we didn't like: Looser, relaxed fit sizes only go up to 2XL

Duluth Trading Co is one retailer with an extensive range of products in big and tall sizes, many items which range up to 5XL, and many of which are perfect for summer activities. The AKHG (Alaskan Hardgear) line of products from Duluth are designed specifically to be tough, dependable technical clothing for the outdoor enthusiast. The AKHG button-down short sleeve shirt lives up to the line’s goals with tough, thick-feeling fabric that still feels cool in the heat, and is ready for a variety of activities.

The AKHG short sleeve shirt, while made for fishing (evident by the fly lure pattern and two breast pockets, one with a zipper), I find this shirt is great for kayaking or any other water activity. Its fabric, a poly-cotton blend, dries quickly and provides UPF 40 sun protection, which is of extreme importance when spending hours on the water. The back vents provide cooling airflow despite soaring temperatures, and the Reach Gussets® under the arms make bending, casting, or paddling easy and comfortable. The shirt even includes a built in chamois to keep glasses clean and vision clear.

The standard sizes fit well, but there are additional relaxed fit sizes that provide a little more room.

Jackets

The importance of good jackets cannot be understated. Layering is crucial for maintaining a comfortable temperature while hiking or doing other strenuous activities in cold temperatures. The items on this list excel both on their own or layered together.

Carhartt Gilliam Jacket

Size: S-3XL
Fit: True to size
Material: 100% nylon CORDURA®
What we liked: Fabric is tougher than other puffy jackets
What we didn't like: Torso is cut short, no hood

Carhartt is known for making durable and comfortable workwear, but many of their items are also excellent for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The Carhartt Gilliam Jacket is my favorite jacket for staying warm in both fall and winter.

Many jackets are designed to keep the wearer warm even in extreme cold temperatures, which sounds like an asset, but often these same jackets are far too warm when being active outdoors. Carhartt rates their jackets and coats for warmth, and this one is rated Level 1 or “warm.” It is not quite warm enough for the coldest of winter temperatures in the mountains, but it is just right for regulating one’s temperature while hiking in the cold. I find it also excels as a layer working with other jackets in more extreme temperatures. It also provides real resistance to wind chill when placed over a light fleece jacket.

The jacket is extremely light and is much more packable than other similar jackets. And, while extremely light, it will also hold up to even the roughest use cases, such as snagging on thorns, rubbing against rough rocks, etc. I’ve used this jacket for several years and it still looks almost brand new, with no holes, rips, or tears in the shell.

Carhartt’s nylon CORDURA fabric seems to be far more resistant to scuffs and rips than other similarly weighted insulated jackets, whose shells can sometimes feel thin and fragile in comparison. In addition to being tough, I found the Carhartt Gilliam water repellent coating works great to slough off snow and rain. I've worn the Carhartt Gilliam in both snow and rainstorms and was able to stay warm and completely dry. Both rain and snow slide off the jacket, and it appears to dry quickly afterward.

There are multiple pockets, including several that zip for securely carrying small items as well as a pocket on the right breast designed just for storing a map.

I’ve owned this jacket for several years now and it is my go-to jacket for rainy, windy, or otherwise chilly days and I wear layers underneath in the winter when I need to be just a little bit warmer. Besides this oversight, my only complaint about this jacket is that it’s a little short in the torso. Some may find that to be an issue, but for me it seems to just cover enough while not getting in the way when bending down, crouching, or scaling boulders, and for those that do find this to be an issue, Carhartt provides several tall sizes in addition to the standard ones.

Columbia Men’s Steens Mountain 2.0 Full Zip Fleece Jacket

Size: Standard: 1X-6X, Tall: LT - 5XT
Fit: True to size
Material: 100% polyester MTR filament fleece
What we liked: Fits great, size availability very soft and comfortable, warmth while maintaining breathability
What we didn’t like: Not as many color options available in big and tall sizes

This fleece jacket has become one of my favorite and most versatile articles of clothing I own. I find myself wearing it camping, hiking, and around town. Columbia’s fleece is a good weight, neither too light nor too heavy, and extremely soft. I find that it provides more wind protection than some other brands’ fleece jackets, such as those by The North Face or Cotopaxi (both or whose fleece in general feels thinner) while also not being too warm while being active.

The Steens Mountain 2.0 Full Zip is a winner in our Best Fleece Jackets guide.

One of my favorite things about this fleece jacket is the cut. It fits my body just right without being overly roomy in the arms or pinching in the armpits like other less well-fitting jackets have in my experience. It’s thin enough to use as an extra layer of warmth under another coat or jacket, and unzipping it in the front results in a much cooler, yet still warm fit. Reviews online generally state that it fits true to size, which I also find to be the case, and the bottom hem has a drawstring to tighten it for a better fit, or just a bit more warmth.

This jacket is very light, and is not suitable to wear alone on a winter day, unless wearing a warm base layer underneath it, but excels in all other seasons, and as stated, works great in winter as one of several layers.

It’s a simple jacket in both looks and features, but that doesn’t make it any less versatile or usable. This is a great addition to anyone’s activewear collection.

REI Microtrek Insulated Hoodie

Size: S-XXXL
Fit: Runs small
Material: 100% recycled ripstop polyester (bluesign approved)
What we liked: Affordable price, comfortable synthetic insulation, versatile everyday design, easy layering, inclusive sizing, water resistant, and packs into pocket
What we didn’t like: Limited weather resistance (not waterproof), limited adjustability of hood, fewer technical features, and not ideal for high-alpine use

The REI Microtrek insulated hoodie is an attractive and budget-friendly layer well-suited for a variety of activities in moderate to mild outdoor conditions. 

The Microtrek comes in sizes up to 3XL in men’s, which, according to REI’s sizing chart, fits up to a 54-57 inch chest and a 48 –50-inch waist size. I generally wear a true 3XL, so the XXXL was slightly smaller than I would normally wear, but I did find it just roomy enough to fit. It fit well in the chest and the sleeve length was just right, but it was a little more snug than I generally prefer in the midsection. It did not make bending over or sitting difficult, but I always felt aware that it was not as loose as it could have been. 

Learn more in our in-depth review of the REI Co-op Microtrek Insulated Hoodie.

REI Microtrek Insulated Hoodie

Likewise, the length of the hoodie in general felt slightly short. It did reach my waist, but was an inch or so shorter than I would have liked, and I felt like it would be warmer and more functional if it were just slightly longer. I am tall, standing at around 6’ 1”, but not so tall that I need tall sizes, so I think other men of average or slightly above average height might have the same experience with the jacket length.

I tested this jacket in temperatures as low as 18° F and as high as 50° F and found it to be functional so long as I layered my clothes properly underneath. While snowshoeing in 18° weather with a stiff 10-15 mile per hour wind, with the hood up, I remained acceptably warm, but was surprised at how much of the wind I still felt. Performance wise, it’s not the most effective windbreaker, but overall, it was sufficient for most moderate weather conditions. The hood was key to staying warm in this regard, but it lacks any adjustability, which can really improve a hood’s performance in these sorts of conditions.

Despite a couple of shortcomings, REI Microtrek is still a very capable jacket that I’ve used many times for the surprising warmth it provides from its lightweight 60g recycled PrimaLoft synthetic insulation and for its attractive looks. The Microtrek is ready for hiking, bikepacking, or backpacking, or really any activity, especially during the shoulder seasons where layering is a necessity, but a heavier winter coat will likely be too warm for comfort.

Underwear

Underwear designed for hiking is meant to breathe, dry quickly, and not stink after hiking and camping. It's also designed to reduce chafing and bunching. Many of outdoor-oriented brands in our Best Men's Hiking Underwear guide have limited sizing. The industry has a long way to go, but here is some underwear that works well for me.

Duluth Trading Co Men’s Buck Naked Boxer Briefs

Size: S-4XL
Fit: True to size
Material: 93% nylon, 7% spandex knit 
What we liked: Comfortable, excellent fit, roomy legs, gusseted crotch has strong seams, soft fabric
What we didn’t like: Not quite as lightweight, cool, and quick drying as the Armachillo

Duluth might be most recognizable for their humorously named products, like these Buck Naked underwear, but they also make some really comfortable and high-quality gear. 

These particular underwear have exactly what one needs to get outdoors and move comfortably. 

The fit is excellent, with a wide and strong-feeling waistband and close-fitting yet roomy legs, and plenty of give where it counts. The crotch is gusseted to strengthen the seams and avoid blowouts when stretching while working or being active, and the fabric, a 93% nylon/7% spandex knit, feels soft and durable to the touch. 

And as the name implies, these boxer briefs are extremely light (a mere 4.4 ounces according to Duluth’s website) and feel almost like wearing nothing at all.

While Duluth has another set of underwear meant to keep the wearer cool and dry in the heat called the Armachillo underwear, these do a great job of staying dry and remaining breathable. They wick moisture and dry quickly. They are also treated to fight odors, and one of Duluth’s selling points is that they can have water rung out of them, and then just hang them to dry overnight when traveling to keep them clean and fresh.

These are a great everyday boxer brief that performs equally well at a job site or a campsite, and they look great too. They are available in a number of solid colors, as well as a variety of seasonal prints which make them stand out against some of the more utilitarian appearance of many other light, moisture-wicking underwear.

Layering for big and tall bodies

Layering is one of those things that outdoor guides make sound straightforward, but for big and tall bodies it comes with a specific set of challenges that most guides don't address. The standard advice to wear a base layer, a mid layer, and a shell assumes that all three will fit and work together. In practice, when you're shopping across extended size lines from different brands, that's not always what happens.

The most common problem I run into is torso length not being long enough. A base layer that hits at the right point on my torso can end up bunched or ridden up under a fleece jacket that's cut shorter. A rain shell that fits well over a t-shirt can feel restrictive over a mid layer because the extended size was designed with just enough room for a single layer underneath. I recommend testing your layers together before a trip, not just individually.

A few things I've learned that help:

When buying a shell or outer layer, size it with your mid layer on. Don't try it on alone and assume it will work over fleece. The difference between a comfortable fit and a constricted one is often just one layer of fabric, and you won't know until you're both in the store or have both in your hands at home.

Base layers matter more than people think for layering to work. A base layer that's too baggy bunches under a mid layer and creates uncomfortable pressure points. The REI Active Pursuits long sleeve works well as a base layer for me specifically because despite running slightly short in the torso, it's fitted enough that it doesn't bunch when I add a fleece on top.

Mid layers with full zips give you much more temperature control than quarter zips. The Columbia Steens Mountain fleece I recommend in this guide is a full zip for exactly this reason. Being able to unzip partially while hiking uphill and zip back up when you stop is the difference between overheating and staying comfortable.

Pay attention to where layers end at the wrist. When you reach forward or upward, base layers and mid layers that are cut for standard arm lengths will pull back and expose your wrists. Look for long sleeve base layers with thumb holes, which hold the sleeve in place regardless of what you're doing with your arms. The REI Active Pursuits has these, which is one reason it works well as a base layer for me.

For cold weather camping or hiking, I run a three layer system with the Ariat Rebar Gridwork baselayer, the Columbia Steens Mountain fleece, and the Carhartt Gilliam Jacket over the top. All three work together because the base layer is fitted, the fleece is cut generously enough to move over it, and the Carhartt has enough room at the chest and shoulders to go over both without restricting movement. Finding three layers that actually work together took trial and error. If you find a combination that works, note it and stick with it.

Understanding the needs of big and tall (aka, what I wish brands knew about designing big and tall gear)

Body proportions and how they affect clothing fit

One of the biggest obstacles to finding outdoor apparel is fit, even when brands provide extended or big and tall sizing. The mistake brands seem to keep making is failing to understand big and tall bodies come in a variety of proportions and shapes, which sometimes are not reflected in the ways big and tall clothing are cut.

For example, some people are simply extremely broad-shouldered and tall, and may find sleeves and pants legs to be much too loose to be comfortable and which can hinder movement. 

Some may wear their weight in their hips and find some pants not roomy enough for comfortable movement in the waist and buttocks. 

For me, I am fairly tall, over six feet, and have a large barrel-chest, fairly average shoulders, and somewhat athletic legs and arms. With this shape, many clothes, even in big and tall sizes supposedly designed for someone my size don’t quite fit right. Often they fit in the torso, but are far too baggy in the shoulders and underarms area, which makes for an awkward fit that is not conducive to outdoor activities, and doesn’t look flattering. Keeping this problem in mind is vital, as some brands' sizing is very different.

Key considerations when selecting outdoor clothing for big and tall men

When choosing outdoor clothing, the fit is the most important thing to consider. If the clothing doesn’t fit comfortably, or doesn’t fit when bending, jumping, climbing, etc., the wearer might not be able to remain active for long and can even injure themself. Trying clothes on before going out into the great outdoors is paramount.

 I learned this first hand on that fifty-miler that my scout troop took during my teens. The other boys in my troop and our leaders were all dressed more appropriately for the weather and strenuousness of hiking through steep switchbacks and rocky, exposed areas. They also complained of the heat, but I was  even hotter, uncomfortably so, and struggled through sections of the hike, heavy jeans damp with sweat and sticking to my skin and cotton tee soaked through on my back. My clothes made each step harder, and had I been a little less in shape or just unlucky, I could have ended up with chafing and sores at the very least.

With this experience in mind, there are a few things I recommend to look for in outerwear. First, clothes for active pursuits should be light. This is not just important for comfort, but also for packing while camping or backpacking. Lighter clothes are conducive to being active, but often weight is the enemy when packing things in a pack for backpacking. Keeping clothes’ weight down makes room for other important items.

Second is sun protection. This is often overlooked, yet it is one of the most important considerations. Sunscreen and hats are often all that people think about in this regard, but those only protect so well. Sunscreen wears off after a time and no longer protects the wearer. This was another one of the lessons I learned the proverbial hard way on that same trip. Even with sunscreen and a hat, avoiding sunburn was a daily battle. Since then I’ve come to see that clothing providing UVA/UVB protection can literally be a lifesaver at the height of the summer heat.

Many of the items on this list provide 50+ SPF protection, which can be crucial when boating on the water, sitting around camp, hiking a mountain summit, or climbing a rock face. These are all environments that can lead to sunburn, which is not just uncomfortable, but can lead to cancer and other health problems.

In the cold, even being slightly damp can be the difference between being comfortable and being in danger of freezing. In the heat, staying dry can protect from chafing, as well as remaining cool. This is especially important for base layers and underwear, which often have moisture-wicking tech built in to keep sweat off the skin for protection and comfort.

How not having the right fit impacts your comfort and performance outdoors

Besides the risk of injury, not having a good fit or appropriate features makes gear uncomfortable. Especially for fat bodies, which aren’t always welcome (or at least don’t always feel welcome) in outdoor spaces, comfort is crucial. Feeling comfortable in appropriate clothing can help with confidence and feeling a sense of belonging in the outdoors. When those feelings are not present, it’s easy to give up on difficult activities.  Feeling good makes the same activities feel easier, and imparts self-confidence  which is important too. Everyone deserves to feel prepared, capable, and confident about the activities they want to participate in.

Besides this, wearing uncomfortable, wet, or otherwise improper clothing can make every aspect of an activity physically more difficult, causing tiredness and fatigue much earlier than if the same person were wearing more appropriate and well-fitting clothing. Inappropriate gear is a huge hindrance in every aspect of being outside.

Tips for finding the right fit

Most companies provide a size chart on their website. It helps to be familiar with your own measurements when ordering clothing. Pay attention to chest size, inseam and sleeve length, as well as waist measurements.

However, while knowing your own measurements is crucial to finding the right clothes, many of the manufacturer’s of the clothes mentioned in this article have user reviews right on their website, and retailers like REI do as well. Read through these and look for comments detailing fit. Some items, several of which I noted in the reviews above, run small and sizing up is a good idea—even if the measurements in the sizing chart wouldn’t lead a buyer to this conclusion.

Luckily, more manufacturers and retailers are carrying big and tall sizes these days. There are still not as many options as in straight sizing, but most of the major brands (The North Face, Columbia, REI, etc.) do offer at least some extended sizing. Checking specialty retailers for big and tall sizes, such as Kingsize Direct or DXL, is also a great idea, as they often carry some of the more common items on this list like light tops, fleece jackets, and coats.

Related: read testimony from plus-size athletes on trends and changes in the industry in our winter article, Snowsports for Bigger Bodies.

About my journey

When I was a 16-year-old Boy Scout, I went on my first real backpacking trip: a week-long, 50 mile trip through the rugged Sawtooth Mountains in Idaho. 

I had camped many times, and gone on plenty of hikes, but I was not an avid outdoorsperson then and did not own many items I would consider essential for taking such a trip. 

I borrowed a hiking backpack from my father—an old metal frame hiking pack from the 1970s—and filled it with enough of the clothes I owned for the week trip and tied a far-too-big, far-too-heavy sleeping bag and a musty old foam pad from my grandfather’s years as a Boy Scout troop leader to its aluminum frame. 

The trip was in the height of summer and the 10-miles we hiked each day were excruciatingly hot, especially in the clothes I packed: jeans and cotton tee shirts. I didn’t have access then to well-fitting clothes designed for outdoor activities in mind, nor did I understand how much of a difference clothing materials can make. I was lucky, I didn’t return home with chafed thighs, blisters on my feet, or any lasting injury, but those could have easily been the outcome. And despite being able to avoid injury, my quads felt like they were baking in full sun under heavy denim and my entire body, from my neck to my feet, was soaked in hot, uncomfortable sweat which stung on my sunburned skin. 

The trip didn’t have to be this way. I could have worn comfortable, breathable shorts and shirts with sun protection that wick moisture from the body. This article is how I'm helping other adventurers get outdoors with confidence.

Embrace outdoor adventures with confidence

Not only will finding the right fit make activities easier, but they can really improve one’s self-image. Wearing ill-fitting clothing can accentuate the parts of the body a person is self-conscious about. For example, some shirts are clingy in the chest, which always makes me uncomfortable because my chest is a body part I sometimes feel negatively about. Wearing shirts that fit better in that particular area don’t just make me feel better about my body, but also about my ability to participate in outdoor activities.

Finding resources for big and tall outdoors enthusiasts can be difficult. Many of what resources are available tend to focus on plus-size women's gear, and there don't seem to be many popular fat male outdoor influencers.

However, searching Facebook groups for specific activities such as hiking or kayaking in conjunction with terms like "fat," "big and tall," or "plus size' will yield a few inclusive groups, and outdoor companies that produce or sell big and tall outdoor clothing have begun sharing more big and tall men influencers. For example, Columbia has partnered on Instagram with Drake Andrews (@drakeandrews) and Kyle Pretzlaff (@kylefrominsta). REI has also worked with a few in recent years as well. These are the best places to start to find more info and support.

For more about representation of all bodies in the outdoors, check out our interview with Jenny Bruso, founder of Unlikely Hikers.

Tips for shopping for big and tall outdoor gear

Shopping for outdoor clothing in extended sizes requires a different strategy than shopping in standard sizes. Here's what I've learned after years of trial and error.

Know your measurements, not just your size. Big and tall sizing varies significantly between brands. A 3XL from Columbia and a 3XL from REI will fit differently on the same body. Before ordering anything online, measure your chest, waist, inseam, sleeve length, and torso length and compare against the brand's specific size chart rather than assuming your usual size will translate. Torso length in particular is something most people don't measure but matters enormously for shirts and base layers.

Read user reviews specifically for fit comments. Manufacturer size charts tell you what a garment is supposed to do. User reviews tell you what it actually does on real bodies. Before ordering, filter reviews for mentions of fit, sizing up, or sizing down. Several of the items in this guide I initially ordered in my measured size and had to exchange because reviewers had flagged that they run small, which turned out to be true.

Order multiple sizes when you can and return what doesn't work. This sounds obvious but many outdoor shoppers in standard sizes don't have to think about it. For extended sizes, where the margin between fits can be one size, ordering two sizes and returning one is often the only reliable way to find what actually works. REI's return policy makes this easier than most. Brands like Columbia also have good exchange processes.

Test gear together, not just individually. Try on layers together in the store if you can, or test them at home before removing tags. A shirt that fits perfectly alone may feel restrictive under a jacket. Pants that move well on their own may bind differently with a hip belt on top.

Check specialty retailers alongside outdoor brands. DXL and Kingsize Direct carry some of the same items from brands like Columbia at a wider range of extended sizes than you'll find at general outdoor retailers. They're worth checking when a brand's outdoor retailer page shows limited extended sizing, since the same items sometimes appear in larger size ranges through these channels.

Follow big and tall outdoor influencers and community groups. Searching Facebook for hiking, kayaking, or backpacking groups combined with terms like fat, big and tall, or plus size will surface communities of people who have already done the work of figuring out what fits and what doesn't. Columbia has partnered with creators like Drake Andrews and Kyle Pretzlaff, and REI has worked with several extended size athletes. These are practical resources for finding what actually works on bodies like ours before spending money on something that might not.

Buy from brands that are genuinely investing in extended sizing. There's a difference between a brand that offers a 2X and calls it big and tall and a brand that has thought carefully about how extended sizes actually fit different body types. Columbia is one of the better examples I've found in outdoor gear. Their extended sizing tends to fit more proportionally than some other brands that simply scale up a standard pattern. When a brand gets it right, stick with them.

FAQ

• Which outdoor clothing brands make good big and tall sizes for hiking?

  Several brands offer extended sizing that performs well for active use. Columbia is consistently strong on fit, with options like the Wanoga Lightweight Pants and Steens Mountain Fleece available in Big sizes up to 6X and Tall sizes up to 5XT. REI offers extended sizing in lines like Sahara and Active Pursuits, typically up to 3XL with tall options. Duluth Trading Company’s AKHG line includes relaxed fits up to 3XL and larger sizing in underwear. Carhartt provides durable insulated outerwear in extended sizes, and Ariat offers base layers in both standard and tall sizing. The best option depends on your specific body shape and how the brand cuts its garments.

• Why is it hard to find outdoor gear that fits big and tall bodies well?

  Many brands simply scale garments up proportionally instead of designing for how larger bodies are actually shaped. This can result in clothing that fits in one area but is too loose or too tight in others. People carry weight differently, so a good fit depends on more than just size labels. Clothing with stretch fabrics, adjustable features, and thoughtful patterning tends to perform better. Reading reviews from people with similar body types can also help identify pieces that fit well in real-world use.

• What features should I look for in outdoor clothing for big and tall men?

  Fit is the most important factor, especially for garments that include stretch materials, adjustable waistbands, or gussets for better mobility. Sun protection is also key, so look for fabrics with built-in UPF ratings. Moisture-wicking and quick-drying materials help reduce chafing and overheating, making synthetic or wool blends preferable to cotton. Weight and packability matter as well, particularly for longer hikes or trips where comfort and efficiency are important.

• What are the best big and tall hiking pants?

  Look for hiking pants that combine stretch, durability, and a balanced fit that does not feel overly baggy or restrictive. Options with elastane or similar stretch fibers tend to move better with the body. Features like water resistance, sun protection, and secure pockets improve usability on the trail. The best choice will depend on your body proportions and how the pants fit through the waist, seat, and legs.

• Is it okay to wear cotton clothing for hiking if I am in big and tall sizes?

  Cotton is not recommended for hiking regardless of body size. It absorbs moisture and dries slowly, which can lead to chafing, discomfort, and rapid heat loss in cooler conditions. This can be especially problematic for people who sweat more during activity. Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics or merino wool are better choices because they help keep skin dry and regulate temperature more effectively.

• How do I find the right size when ordering big and tall outdoor clothing online?

  Start by taking accurate measurements of your chest, waist, inseam, and sleeve length rather than relying on standard sizing. Compare these measurements to brand-specific size charts, as sizing varies widely. Reading user reviews can provide insight into how items fit in real use, including whether they run small or large. If tall sizing is available and you have a longer torso or limbs, it is often the better option for overall comfort and coverage.

Why you should trust us

Clayne Zollinger is an outdoor enthusiast and a big and tall outdoor advocate as well as a poet, educator, musician and lover of the outdoors.

He says, “For some of my adult life, I didn't feel like the outdoors was open to me because of my fatness and a lack of quality gear that fit me properly. I've come to believe that the outdoors is for everyone and everyone should have access to quality, well-fitting gear to help them feel comfortable and achieve their outdoor goals.”

Clayne was born and raised in Idaho and spent his youth camping with his scout troop, hiking in the Sawtooth Mountains, rafting the Salmon River, and fishing in the lakes and reservoirs of Southern Idaho. As a teen, he earned his Eagle Scout award and belonged to BSA's Order of the Arrow.

He received his Master's of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, Poetry from Saint Mary's College of California. His poetry and writing can be found in various places including Dunes Review and Talking River Review. Currently he teaches English at College of Western Idaho and College of Southern Idaho. On the weekends he can be found either singing songs in bars or exploring the outdoors with his partner, Gabi Reyes-Acosta, and their dog, Juniper.

See more on Clayne's author page.

August 24th, 2026, updated with 8 new travel packs
Home → Gear Reviews → Travel Gear

The adventure travel backpack category exists because most trips don't fit neatly into "hiking pack" or "rolling luggage." A weekend that starts with a flight, moves to a hike, and ends at a dinner reservation needs a bag that can do all three without looking wrong in any of them. The difference between a pack that handles that gracefully and one that doesn't shows up in airport security lines, on hostel room floors, and at mile six of a day hike with a too-heavy load.

Our team of testers field tested adventure travel backpacks across a genuinely wide range of trips: a week of adventure travel in Northern Ireland, crewing an ultramarathon in Mexico, a flight from Colorado to Edinburgh for highland hiking, long weekends across 15 states, outdoor festivals, family trips, and urban commutes. Our collective testing drew on thousands of miles of hiking experience and tens of thousands of miles of frequent flying.

What separates a good adventure travel pack from one that frustrates you comes down to how well it transitions between contexts — specifically whether the straps stow cleanly for airport handling, how accessible the organization is mid-trip without unpacking everything, whether the hip belt and shoulder system carry load comfortably for more than an hour, and how the pack holds up across repeated weather exposure and hard use.

Top Pick: The Cotopaxi Allpa 42 earns our Best Overall award. It stood out for its suitcase-style clamshell opening that makes finding gear easy without digging, stowable hip belt and shoulder straps for airport and urban use, weather resistance with an included rain cover, and a range of capacity options from 26L to 42L that cover everything from day trips to week-long expeditions.

Gearing up for a trip? Check out our Adventure Travel Gear Checklist: The Complete Packing List for Any Trip.

We create reader-supported, objective, independently-selected gear reviews. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Comparison tables

Weight, Capacity, straps and hipbelts

Carry-on travel-friendly features, pockets

The winners

Best overall adventure travel backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 42

Volumes available: 26, 28, 35, 42, and 50 L
Capacity: 42 L
Carry-on compliant: Yes
Water-resistant? Yes + rain cover
Shoulder straps stow? Yes
Hipbelt included: Yes
Hipbelt stows/removable? Yes, low-profile padded hipbelt is stowable and removable
Luggage pass-through? Yes
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Volume to weight ratio: 13.4 L/ lb
Exterior pockets: 4
Weight: 3.13 lb.
What we liked: Capacity options, layout, durability, weather resistance, carry-on compatibility, color options, Cotopaxi’s sustainability efforts
What we didn't like: Not our favorite shoulder straps

The Cotopaxi Allpa is a versatile, durable, spacious, stylish, and well-organized travel backpack. After taking it on a long road trip to the Midwest and a flight from Colorado to Edinburgh, Scotland for explorations in the city and the Scottish highlands, we found this pack to excel in a variety of weather conditions and travel use cases. 

Treeline testers have taken it to conferences, family reunions in Japan, on a four-state book tour, and week-long work trips, and we came to depend on its suitcase-like, clamshell zipper opening, allowing you to easily find what you need without digging around.

You can learn more about this travel backpack in our in-depth review of the Cotopaxi Allpa.

Woman carrying the Cotopaxi Allpa up to a cool VW Van.

Cotopaxi Allpa 42 packed and ready for travel

Woman standing in front of a rack of surf boards with the Cotopaxi Allpa 42 travel pack

The front of the Cotopaxi Allpa 42

Traveling with the Cotopaxi Allpa 42

We appreciate a lot about this pack, including its sizes and organization options. The range of capacity options is useful for different scenarios—28L is great for day trips, 35L for long weekends, and 42L for week-long trips, for example. Cotopaxi uses recycled materials for the Allpa 42, which we also appreciate.

Cotopaxi is also impressively sustainable. 100% of their product materials are either repurposed, recycled, or responsibly certified. Learn more about their Sustainable by Design promise.

It's also worth noting the Cotopaxi Allpa comes in many capacity options, including 26L, 28L, 35L, 42L, and numerous checked-bag and personal-item sizes. This is an impressive number of options, which really allows you to tailor the size you need for the types of trips you take and where you are going. No other bag we tested has so many options.

Most comfortable adventure travel backpack: NEMO Vantage Overnight 40L Endless Promise Pack

Volumes available: 20, 26, 30, 40 L
Volume we tested: 40L
Carry-on compliant: Yes, most U.S. airlines
Water-resistant? Yes
Hipbelt included: Hipbelt only available on 40L pack
Hipbelt stows/removable? Yes, on 40L/No
Shoulder straps stow? No
Hipbelt stows? Yes, on 40L pack
Luggage pass-through? Yes
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Weight: 2 lbs 11 oz (20L), 3 lbs 2 oz (26L), 3 lbs 1 oz (30L), 3 lbs 11 oz (40L)
Volume to weight ratio: 10.9 L/ lb
What we liked: Comfortable shoulder pads and back panel, durable and high-quality materials and construction, excellent organization, super sustainable through NEMO’s Endless Promise program
What we didn't like: hipbelt only on 40L, hipbelt is minimal

The NEMO Vantage Endless Promise Overnight Travel Backpack was almost our best overall winner—the organization and overall design are incredible, it’s in its own league as far as comfort, and NEMO’s Endless Promise line is impressively sustainable. Ultimately, we decided the Cotopaxi Allpa offered more versatility and more size and color options for more people. The Vantage is a durable, comfortable, and ergonomically and thoughtfully-designed travel pack.

The padded shoulder straps and airy back panel—made with a material called CCubed, which is mostly air—are the most comfortable of all backpacks we’ve tested.

You can learn more in our in-depth review of the NEMO Vantage Endless Promise Overnight Travel Pack.

The NEMO Vantage 40L has padded shoulder straps and an airy back panel for comfortable carrying.

We tested the NEMO Vantage Endless Promise 40L Travel Backpack on trips ranging from domestic travel to international adventures.

The NEMO Vantage Endless Promise Travel Backpack has a large main compartment with dedicated pockets for organizing travel gear.

The NEMO Vantage 40L works equally well for adventure travel, day trips, and everyday activities.

The NEMO Vantage has dedicated compartments for tech, shoes, dirty laundry, and other travel essentials.

The NEMO Vantage 40L has a sleek design with multiple carrying handles and a stowable hipbelt.

We’ve tested the NEMO Vantage Endless Promise 40L Overnight Travel Backpack and the previous model in 30L over two years of international and domestic travel, from day trips in Colorado to a week-long adventure travel trip in Ireland, Asia, and countless trips around the U.S.

This travel backpack has a large zippered main compartment, plus smaller compartments and pockets. The tech compartment is padded and divided for better organization, and there’s a hidden bottom compartment that’s great for dirty laundry or a pair of shoes. It isn't quite as much as the Matador Global Pack but it is more than the Cotopaxi Allpa, making organization easy.

Perhaps the best feature? As part of NEMO’s Endless Promise line, this pack is made entirely of recycled materials and is fully recyclable at the end of its life. NEMO will even do the recycling for you. And the materials and construction are of such high quality that this durable pack should last you a long time.

In testing, we were impressed with the variety of trips the NEMO Vantage worked well on—from a week of adventure traveling in Northern Ireland, to crewing an ultramarathon in Mexico, day trips into the mountains, commuting from work to workouts, and much more. 

It’s carry-on compliant and has a sleek design. It works for daily trips and workouts because of the easy zip opening that works for daily activities where you want quicker access to things like gym clothes. It works well for international travel because of the organization inside that separates what you don't need access to often like dirty laundry from gear you need often, like passports.

It doesn’t come in as many different capacities as the Cotopaxi Allpa (which includes 28L, 35L, 42L, and numerous checked-bag and personal-item sizes), and it only comes in two color options. 

The updated version of this pack now comes in 20L, 26L, 30L, and 40L sizes. Confusingly, the 20 and 26L versions are called "Everyday Adventure Daypack" while the 30 and 40L are called "Overnight Travel Backpack.” The 40L pack we tested offers all the perks of the previous version with thoughtful upgrades, like larger side water bottle pockets, larger and longer zippers, and more carrying handles. There’s also a new magnetic buckle at the top, replacing one that slid into place.

Best carry-on travel pack: Peak Design Travel Pack 30 L

Volumes available: 20, 30, 45 L
Volume we tested: 30 L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? Yes
Hipbelt included? No, available for separate purchase
Hipbelt stows/removable? Yes, optional hipbelt stows and is removable
Luggage pass-through? Yes
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 3
Weight: 3.17 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 9.5 L/ lb
What we liked: Sturdy and sleek design, quality materials, comfortable straps, carry-on compatibility, travel-friendly features
What we didn't like: Fewer compartments than other packs, filet-style main compartment can be difficult to access on the go

The Peak Design Travel Backpack wins Best Carry-on Adventure Travel Backpack due to its sturdy structure, large main compartment, air travel-friendly features, and sleek design. This is a great adventure travel backpack for jetsetters, nature photographers, digital nomads, and work commuters.

The pack is made with weatherproof, DWR-treated fabric and offers ample storage space for long weekends (perhaps up to a week if you’re packing really light). It features zippers that lock together and zipper locks to keep them in place during travel, a waterproof bottom, stretchy side pockets, a secure tech compartment for laptops or tablets, and grab handles on all sides of the pack. You can expand the capacity for more space and still maintain its carry-on compatibility.

This adventure travel backpack covered us throughout a lot of travel situations, including work commutes and a long weekend in Seattle that included work, walking around the city, and nature walks. Learn more in our in-depth review of the Peak Design Travel Backpack.

Woman showing off the Peak Design Travel Pack 30 L

Woman wearing the Peak Design Travel Pack 30 L with her back to the camera

Woman wearing the Peak Design Travel Pack 30 L on her back

The inside of a packed Peak Design Travel Pack 30 L

While this pack is great for air travel, work and professional events, and for photographers, we wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for those who will primarily be outdoors. The Travel Backpack certainly can accompany you on day hikes—in fact, Peak Design caters their design to nature photographers—the filet-style opening (similar to a clamshell opening but opens forward/longways rather than outward like a book) of the main compartment can be difficult to access on the go, and there isn’t an obvious solution for separating dirty clothing or gear other than adding packing cubes.

However, if you’re looking for a travel pack primarily for air travel and/or work that can transition to outdoor activities, or if you prefer a simple and sleek style, this is our top choice. 

Best affordable travel pack: REI Ruckpack 40

Men's and Women's

Volumes available: 30, 40 L
Volume we tested: 30L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? Yes
Hipbelt included? Yes
Hipbelt stows/removable? Yes/No
Luggage pass-through? No
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 4
Weight: 2.81 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 14.2 L/ lb
What we liked: organization, value for the price, highly durable
What we didn't like: shoulder straps uncomfortable for long-term use

The REI Ruckpack 40 is a budget-friendly, versatile adventure travel backpack. It’s rugged enough for outdoor adventures with a DWR finish and included a rain cover, is carry-on compatible, and has travel-centric features like lockable zippers.

We tested this pack as the solo backpack our tester brought to a month-long educational summer camp. This bag carried this carry-on for everything we needed for a month, from clothes to a laptop, books, and snacks. We chose this pack over the Cotopaxi Allpa, our overall winner, due to its bigger water bottle pockets. Since we were also using this pack as our school backpack and as a hiking backpack for field trips that involved hiking, kayaking, and swimming at a dry, high altitude, those bigger water bottles were a must. 

Check out our in-depth review of the REI Co-op Ruckpack 30 Adventure Travel Backpack.

REI Ruckpack 40 on a woman’s back with travel accessories attached to the outside

Hiker wearing the REI Ruckpack 40 next to a High Sierra Loop Trail sign

Hiker wearing REI Ruckpack 40 on trail looking at a waterfall

Hiker wearing the REI Ruckpack 40

The Ruckpack is designed for both outdoor excursions and long travel days, with a removable hip belt, a sleeve for either a laptop or a hydration system. It has a split-webbing daisy chain for lashing on gear, it lacks the features of other winning packs in this guide: like super comfortable shoulder straps, adjustable interior compartments, highly durable and lightweight materials, etc.--it provides a thoughtful, streamlined design for adventure travels at a low price. You’d be hard pressed to find a better value for $159.

Best adventure travel backpack with organization: Matador Global Travel Pack

Volumes available: 35, 45 L
Volume we tested: 35L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? Yes
Hipbelt included? Yes
Hipbelt stows/removable? Yes, stowable and removable
Luggage pass-through? Yes
AirTag Pocket? Yes
RFID blocker? Yes
Exterior pockets: 5
Weight: 3.69 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 9.5 L/ lb
What we liked: Many pockets, great layout for organization, high-quality materials and durable construction
What we didn’t like: Expensive, clamshell makes main compartment harder to access on the go

The Matador 35L Global Travel Pack is our pick for best organization because of its plethora of pockets and thoughtful setup. With a total of 17 pockets, it has the most of any pack we’ve tested. We also appreciate the clamshell opening to keep clothing separate from toiletries and accessories, an admin external pocket to organize work items, and a cushioned and protective tech compartment with a false bottom on the laptop pocket for security.

In addition to the effective use of space and plentiful pockets, the Matador Global Travel Pack has lots of adventure-travel-specific features, like a shock cord external stash to keep a jacket handy, a high-vis interior and reflective elements on the exterior, and a hidden pocket that blocks RFID. 

Learn more in our in-depth review of the Matador Global Travel Pack.

The Matador Global Travel Pack's comfortable shoulder straps make it easy to carry on long travel days.

The Matador Global Travel Pack has a streamlined design with an external shock cord for stashing a jacket or other gear.

The Matador Global Travel Pack combines a travel-focused design with a comfortable carry for exploring cities.

In addition to the long list of features, this backpack has comfortable, plush shoulder straps with adjustable sternum straps and a padded hip belt, both of which are stowable. In testing, we found this comfortable for long travel days, just falling short of the most comfortable adventure travel pack, the NEMO Vantage Endless Promise Overnight Travel Backpack. The hipbelt is stowable in a way that works well for checking in luggage, but can create a bulge while walking without a hipbelt.

The main downsides of this pack are that it’s more expensive than other packs of the same volume, and the clamshell opening makes accessing the main compartment more difficult on the go. We also didn't like that the 24L and 30L versions have different names than the 40L, but very similar designs, a complaint we also had with the NEMO Vantage. 

If you are looking for a pack that keeps you organized for adventure travel trips up to a week, the Matador Global Travel Pack is a premium full-featured pack that feels like a good value.

Best lightweight adventure travel backpack: ULA Equipment Ultra Dragonfly 30 L

Volumes available: 30L, 36 L
Volume we tested: 30 L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? No/Yes
Hipbelt included? No,  sold separately
Hipbelt stows/removable? Yes, but sold separately
Luggage pass-through? Yes
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 5
Weight: 1.71 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 17.5 L/ lb
What we liked: Ultra fabric is waterproof and durable and lightweight, top-entry and front-loading gives flexibility, made in US, lightest full travel pack, white interior
What we didn't like: Price, not suited for heavy packers, only available in black

The ULA Ultra 30L Dragonfly is the best ultralight travel pack. As an ultralight travel pack, the Dragonfly has got everything you need, nothing you don't. It's sleek, professional, waterproof, abrasion-resistant, lightweight, and simple. The Dragonfly is as durable and comfortable as a thru-hiker's pack, with a commuter and travel-friendly capacity and modern style.

The Dragonfly is made of Ultra fabric, a lightweight, waterproof, and abrasion-resistant fabric popular in thru-hiking packs. But unlike backpacking packs, the Dragonfly has an easy-to-access front-open design and an external zipped laptop pocket (similar to the Matador Global Travel Pack). 

The ULA stands out among traditional hiking and travel packs due to its lightweight, sleek and professional design, and rugged, outdoor-friendly Ultra material. Read more in our in-depth review of the ULA Dragonfly Travel pack.

The ULA Ultra Dragonfly 30L is lightweight enough for travel while still offering a comfortable, trail-ready carry.

The ULA Ultra Dragonfly 30L has a sleek design and external shock cord for stashing a jacket or travel pillow.

The ULA Ultra Dragonfly 30L has an external zippered laptop pocket for easy access to tech while traveling.

The ULA Ultra Dragonfly 30L's lightweight, waterproof Ultra fabric makes it suited to travel from the city to the trail.

We love that the pockets are tall enough to secure our 70 oz vacuum-sealed water bottle. It has a shock cord on the outside to attach a jacket or travel pillow. There are zippered pockets on the outside that can fit smaller items like sunglasses, lip balm, and snacks. There are small mesh pockets on the inside where you want more security for passports and keys.

Compared to other travel packs we tested, the capacity is smaller, and the carry is aimed towards one-bag minimalist travelers due to lack of luggage-pass through (though they sell a version with the pass-through). If you will be carrying more gear, the Gossamer Gear Aero Jet or the Six Moon Designs All Day Carry may be a better choice.

If you're looking for one bag to take with you from the airport to the coffee shop to the train to the trail, the ULA Ultra Dragonfly is it.

Best personal item for hiking: ULA Ultra Node

Volumes available: 20 L
Volume we tested: 20 L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? No
Hipbelt included? Sold separately
Hipbelt stows/removable? No/Yes
Luggage pass-through? Yes
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 5
Weight: 1.26 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 15.9 L/ lb
What we liked: Ultralight, sleek design, durable
What we didn't like: Too small/minimalist for long trips

The ULA Equipment Ultra Node 20L is a sleek, stylish, minimalist day pack and commuter pack for ultralight travel, daily commutes, and adventure.

This is a pack that looks just as cool in a coffee shop as it does during travel, yet is durable enough for intense hikes and scrambles. It’s made with premium, water-resistant ultralight ULTRA X fabric, and is one of very few backpacks in this category made in the USA. 

The phrase “can do it all” is a tall order for a personal item, but this one pack excelled for daily commutes, stuffing under the airplane seat in front of us, and scrambling up peaks. 

The ULA Node is a very small pack and we were initially skeptical, but it has become our go-to pack for daily commutes, air travel, and urban hikes.

Read more in our in-depth review of the ULA Equipment Ultra Node 20L travel pack.

The ULA Ultra Node 20L fits easily into everyday travel, from urban walks to exploring new cities.

The ULA Ultra Node 20L combines a sleek, minimalist design with enough room for everyday essentials.

The ULA Ultra Node 20L is small enough to work as a personal item while still carrying the essentials for travel.

The ULA Ultra Node 20L is built for more rugged adventures, from hiking snowy peaks to off-trail scrambling.

The ULA Ultra Node 20L's minimalist design blends into urban environments while its durable ULTRA X fabric stands up to outdoor use.

Our testers have stored this weekender bag under countless airline seats for travel, biked to coffee shops with my laptop, and summited snowy peaks with this pack. I’ve worn it with a blazer to financial meetings where I was trying to impress other people. I’ve also worn it off-trail bushwhacking and scrambling in wilderness areas where no one will see me.

The ULA Node has got a sleek, clean design that looks sophisticated enough for urban streets. It has enough pockets for daily commuters, including a laptop sleeve and mesh iPad pocket. It looks like a digital nomad adventure travel pack but performs arguably better than most ultralight daypacks. It’s free of logos, making it an inconspicuous bag for travel.

Best adventure travel backpack for women: Osprey Fairview Trek 55 Travel Pack

Volumes available: 55, 70 L
Volume we tested: 55 L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? Yes
Hipbelt included? Yes
Hipbelt stows/removable? Yes/No
Luggage pass-through? Yes
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 5
Weight: 3.86 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 14.2 L/ lb
What we liked: Comfortable, durable, large capacity
What we didn't like: Only available in 55L and 70L

The Osprey Fairview 55 Trek is the best adventure travel pack for women who want one comfortable and functional travel pack. Unlike almost every travel pack we tested, the chassis, harness, and frame support system on the Osprey Fairview 55 Trek are robust enough for backpacking. It's incredibly convenient for multi-week travel trips where we wanted to sneak in a few overnighters in the nearby mountains.

The Fairview Trek marries what we loved about the Osprey Fairview and Farpoint travel packs and Osprey's overnight backpacking backpacks.

Read more in our in-depth review of the Osprey Fairview 55 Trek travel pack.

We tested the women's version, the Osprey Fairview 55 Trek Travel Pack, for a year's worth of travel from planes to road trips to backcountry backpacking. It's got a women's specific chassis that is narrowed, adjustable sizes for shorter options for torso, as well as contoured and smaller options for waist and hipbelt to accommodate curvier bodies.

We've traveled with this pack everywhere from conferences in Colorado to week-long camping trips in the California Redwoods and Big Sur. We hiked it into riverside yurts, fall aspen on the Colorado Trail, off-grid hot spring resorts, and remote cabins in the Eastern Sierra. We've flown multi-city trips, living out of the Osprey Fairview for travel in fifteen cities in addition to a slew of backcountry hike-in destinations.

With full-view, easy-access organization, and rugged materials that can handle airline travel, the Osprey Fairview 55 Trek pack is luggage for people who never want to be caught with a suitcase. The comfortable chassis is smooth going through airports, loading and unloading on road trips, and living out of hotels, Airbnbs, and campsites.

It's worth noting that this pack, and the similar and been-around longer classic Osprey Fairview, are notorious for getting gatechecked, especially from European airlines. We've never been stopped in countless domestic flights, even on Frontier Airlines, but we've been nervous. 

While there are lighter-weight packs for backpacking and more luggage-specific travel packs, for the type of adventure traveler who needs one pack to do both, the Osprey Fairview Trek and Farpoint Trek are a good choice.

Best adventure travel backpack for digital nomads: Gossamer Gear Aero Jet

Volumes available: 35 L
Volume we tested: 35 L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? Yes
Hipbelt included? Sold separately
Hipbelt stows/removable? Yes
Luggage pass-through? Yes/Yes
AirTag Pocket? Yes
RFID blocker? Yes
Exterior pockets: 7
Weight: 2.24 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 15.6 L/ lb
What we liked: Ease of accessing electronics pockets, lightweight, value for price, travel-friendly features like luggage pass-through and RFID blocker
What we didn't like: Not waterproof, no color options, no size options

The Gossamer Gear Aero Jet carry-on pack is the best adventure travel pack for digital nomads. If you're carrying a laptop, iPad or tablet, headphones, and other tech to make your office anywhere away from home, this pack did the best job of organizing the office on your back. The well-organized zip tech pocket can be opened from the top instead of the side like most packs, which made it easier to access when stored in tight spaces under the seat in front of us. 

The updated version is even lighter and has travel-specific features like a hidden AirTag pocket and RFID-blocking pocket (even better for folks who may be traveling with company credit cards). It's also got a luggage pass-through to use with a rolling suitcase (be that your overhead carry-on or checked baggage).

Best yet, it's a more affordable travel pack than many of the others we tested making the Gossamer Gear Aero Jet an excellent deal.

The Gossamer Gear Aero Jet has a streamlined design that works equally well for travel and everyday commuting.

The Gossamer Gear Aero Jet carries a full load comfortably on multi-day adventures and travel.

The Gossamer Gear Aero Jet has a comfortable harness and breathable 3D mesh back panel for all-day wear.

The Gossamer Gear Aero Jet has a luggage pass-through for attaching it to a rolling suitcase.

The Gossamer Gear Aero Jet's large opening provides easy access to the pack's main compartment.

We've lived out of this pack for three weeks, covering over 3,000 miles on planes, trains, Lyfts, and road trips. We used the Aero Jet pack on flights to conferences, on overnight road trips in Colorado, and as a daily commuter pack while working in coffee shops, libraries, and various hotels and Airbns. We wore it all-day, every day at Outdoor Market Alliance running from booth-to-booth and found the harness comfortable and the 3D mesh back panel to provide a lot of airflow (appreciated during 90°F days). 

With a sleek, black design with reflective elements, it looks professional, keeps you seen when walking in the dark, and doesn't show dirt after sitting on the coffee shop floor all day. The Gossamer Gear Aero Jet isn't too big for daily commuting but is quite roomy when it is your one-bag for travel. Due to its incredibly easy-to-access tech organization, this pack should be on every digital nomad's short list.

Best adventure travel backpack for long trips: Osprey Sojourn Porter 46

Volumes available: 30, 46, 65 L
Volume we tested: 46 L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? Yes
Hipbelt included? Yes, padded
Hipbelt stows/removable? Yes, stows  
Luggage pass-through? No
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 3
Weight: 3.4 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 13.5 L/ lb
What we liked: Great organization and pockets, convertible from backpack to side-carry bag, sleek design as both outdoor pack and travel pack, super stretchy water bottle pocket
What we didn't like: Heavy for long days of outdoor use

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 transforms seamlessly from long weekend trips to extended travel adventures due to its large capacity and adventure travel-friendly features. It can serve as both a carry-on and checked luggage bag or as a backpack for urban adventures and outdoor excursions. 

The compression system of the Sojourn Porter allows you to convert this full-sized pack into a compact daypack ideal for exploring cities, working from cafés, or spending a day on the trail or at a park.

To learn more, check out our in-depth review of the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 travel pack.

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 on a rock next to a body of water

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 and everything it will hold

Traveler showing off the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 they are wearing on their back

We appreciate the exceptional organization of the travel backpack, which includes dual-padded laptop/tablet compartments, key clips, pen holders, and designated compartments for everything you’d need for up to a week’s worth of travel. And since most adventure travel backpacks seem to have bewilderingly tight water bottle pockets, it’s worth noting that, while the Sojourn Porter only has one water bottle pocket, it’s stretchy and easily fits wide bottles.

Due to the large 46L capacity and organization features, we think this pack is great for travelers needing one bag for diverse trips—from business travel and urban exploration to outdoor adventures—especially those carrying laptops or tablets. This pack seamlessly transitions between work trips, museum visits, and waterfall hikes.

Best adventure travel backpack for families: No Reception Club Getaway Bag

Volumes available: 25 L
Volume we tested: 24L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? No
Hipbelt included? No
Hipbelt stows/removable? N/A
Luggage pass-through? No
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 6
Weight: 2.99 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 8.4 L/ lb
What we liked: Excellent/customizable organization, storage for kid-specific items, quality and sleek design, carry-on compatibility
What we didn't like: Smaller than other adventure travel backpacks, bundle accessories can make this expensive

The No Reception Club Getaway Bag is our top adventure travel backpack pick for families because it is tailored specifically to traveling with small children. It features diapering accessories, a cooler bag for a bottle or snack storage, and pockets that are easily accessible from the overhead bin of a plane or the back seat of a car.

Our tester has used this pack for 9 months of travel – on family road trips, ski trips, and on cabin and camping trips. It was useful for on-the-fly diaper changes, hauling bottles and snacks for our tester’s son, treats for the family dog, and even some snacks for mom and dad for long days in the car. 

This pack was shoved into corners of a packed car and tossed around in snowy parking lots. It remained functional, durable, and comfortable to carry our gear throughout long trips, and we were constantly impressed with the thoughtful organization of this pack that worked as well when traveling with a 10-month-old baby as it does with a now 1.5-year-old toddler.

Learn more in our in-depth review of the No Reception Club Getaway Bag.

What we appreciated is that unlike many family bags on the market, the Getaway bag isn't just a diaper bag or kid travel pack—it’s designed with parents in mind, with a padded tech compartment and attractive, sleek design. 

One downside of this family-friendly adventure travel pack is that it’s the smallest we tested with only 25 L of capacity. And if you bundle with additional features like the Sidekick waist bag and changing pad, insulated lunch pouch, and stroller attachment straps, it costs more than most packs we tested.

However, the organization and features are so convenient and clearly designed with parents in mind, that we recommend this pack for traveling families with small children if your budget allows it. 

Other adventure travel backpacks we tested 

The North Face Base Camp Voyager

Volumes available: 26, 35 L
Volume we tested: 35 L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? Yes
Hipbelt included? No
Hipbelt stows/removable? N/A
Luggage pass-through? No
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 4
Weight: 3.46 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 10.1 L/ lb

The North Face Base Camp Voyager 35L offers among the best organization of the packs we’ve tested due to its number of pockets and compartments, including adjustable compartments that allow you to optimize your carrying space. But it loses out to the Matador Global Travel Pack because of durability concerns and a lack of hip belt at the 35L size.

This adventure travel backpack has a whopping six zippered pockets, seven non-zippered organization pockets, and two water bottle pockets. The main compartment features an adjustable divider that can be great for separating dirty and clean clothes while traveling. The tech compartment is padded and fleece lined, which was a comforting touch while traveling with work laptops. 

Unlike the Matador Global Pack, it doesn't have a hipbelt. But some people hate hipbelts, so if that is you, consider the North Face Base Camp Voyager. This pack is also much more affordable than the Matador, which may also appeal to some travelers.

Person wearing The North Face Base Camp Voyager while walking a cobblestone road

The inside of The North Face Base Camp Voyager

Person wearing The North Face Base Camp Voyager while exploring a town

Gregory Border Carry-on 40

Volumes available: 30, 40 L
Volume we tested: 40L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? Yes
Hipbelt included? Yes (lightly padded hipbelt only available in 40L)
Hipbelt stows/removable? Yes/Yes
Luggage pass-through? No
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 6
Weight: 2.93 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 13.7 L/ lb

The Gregory Border Carry-On 40L backpack is probably the pack we use the most that didn’t quite win an award in this category. It has a clamshell opening to two main compartments, which is great if you want to separate clean and dirty clothes.

This design alone made it a go-to option for trips that required more shoes, outdoor gear, or laundry, such as our trip that included backpacking in Scotland and a wedding in the Netherlands, a trip to West Virginia that also included hiking and a wedding, a road trip through Arizona to California and Colorado, and even a full day starting with working in a coffee shop and led to meeting friends at the crag to climb.

The updated model of the Gregory Border comes with great upgrades, like better zippers than the previous version, an AirCushion mesh back panel for improved airflow, a protective padded front panel with molded grab handles, and 100% recycled polyester fabric to reduce the pack’s carbon footprint. However, we were disappointed to see the odor-resistant and easy-to-clean ActiveShield interior of one of the compartments disappear in this update. Beyond just sounding cool, we actually thought the "dirty laundry" section of the pack worked and added value to the bag over others we tested.

You can fit a lot in this backpack due to their more-than-typical-travel-bag efficient use of space, making it a great option for longer trips or trips that fit in a lot of different adventures.

Six Moon Designs All Day Carry 

Volumes available: 35L, 45L
Volume we tested: 45L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? Yes
Hipbelt included? Yes
Hipbelt stows/removable? Yes, stowable and removable
Luggage pass-through? Yes
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 10
Weight: 2.0 - 2.25 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 17.5 L/ lb

The Six Moon Designs All Day Carry (ADC) Pack can function as a backpack, suitcase, or urban tote with ease, but it shines brightest as a trekking pack for hut-to-hut routes. In particular, we found we loved this pack for the Camino de Santiago. With water-resistant, durable materials, a traditional backpacking backpack's harness, and plenty of pockets, it's designed for long distance backpacking in more urban environments.

It previously won our award for best lightweight adventure travel pack, but the ULA Dragonfly is more lightweight at 1.7 lbs compared to 2.0-2.25 lbs (depending on the custom fabric you choose). It's a bit of an unfair comparison given the difference in volume, but the Dragonfly has a lighter volume to weight ratio, which is a better indicator of weight.

Learn more about the Six Moon Designs All Day Carry Adventure Travel Pack in our in-depth review.

Pilgrim walking the Camino De Santiago with the Six Moon Designs All Day Carry 

Hiker wearing the Six Moon Designs All Day Carry while on a trail with a beautiful view

Hiker doing a pilgrimage with the Six Moon Designs All Day Carry 

Inside a packed Six Moon Designs All Day Carry 

RTIC Ultra-Dry Duffle Pack

Volumes available: 60 L
Volume we tested: 60 L
Water-resistant? Waterproof
Shoulder straps stow? No
Hipbelt included? No
Hipbelt stows/removable? N/A
Luggage pass-through? No
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 2
Weight: 5.29 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 11.3 L/ lb

The RTIC Ultra-Dry Duffle Pack is a unique travel pack with an extremely minimalist design, but has a large capacity and is the only fully waterproof pack we’ve tested.

The RTIC Ultra-Dry Duffel Pack has an IPX6 waterproof rating (which means it can resist at least three minutes of high-pressure water flow at 100L/minute), with RTIC EZ waterproof zippers, waterproof fabric, and welded seams. 

To achieve this waterproofness, the pack has few pockets. The Ultra-Dry Duffle Pack is one large 60L compartment with two interior mesh pockets and one exterior pocket that doesn’t fit much.

We took this pack on winter and spring road trips in Colorado and on a flight to Montana. In our testing, we found this worked well as large luggage (that is still carry-on friendly for most airlines) or for road trips and car camping trips. This is especially handy if you’ll be traveling to places that get a lot of heavy rain or on a boat. (We even just found it nice to have peace of mind while watching airline employees transfer them on and off our planes in the rain.)

The downsides of this pack are that it is heavy, lacks organization, doesn’t have a tech compartment, and is more luggage forward than adventure travel forward. But it’s among the most affordable options and is great for lengthy trips or trips to wet places. 

We also question this bag's volume. While it feels larger than other packs we tested, we're not convinced it is 60L. Its dimensions are listed at the upper limit for most airline carry-on bags (22" x 14" x 9"). If that's true, then the internal volume of this bag comes out to 45 liters - not 60L.

Fjallraven Raven 28

Volumes available: 20, 28 L
Volume we tested: 28 L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? No
Hipbelt included? No
Hipbelt stows/removable? N/A
Luggage pass-through?
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 5
Weight: 2.2 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 12.7 L/ lb

The Fjallraven Raven 28 is a durable travel pack with a classic backpack design. It has a similar compartment setup to the NEMO Vantage 40L (other than how the main compartment opens) but with Fjallraven’s classic design. 

While this backpack doesn’t offer the frills of other packs we’ve tested, it is durable, stylish, and practical for everyday use. We love that Fjallraven started producing PFAS-free clothing and gear in 2009 and is committed to sustainability efforts. 

We used this pack for work commutes and one-night stays, but probably wouldn’t choose it for longer trips. If you like the look of Fjallraven gear and want a backpack for daily work or school commutes, day trips/hikes, and everyday use, this is a worthwhile option.

Kelty Redwing Traveler 40

Volumes available: 30, 40, 50 L
Volume we tested: 40 L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? No
Hipbelt included? Yes
Hipbelt stows/removable? Yes/No
Luggage pass-through? No
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 8
Weight: 3.43 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 11.7 L/ lb

The Kelty Redwing Travel is among the most affordable travel packs out there. With fully-zippered water bottle side pockets and numerous full-zippered front pouches, it is designed for taking on planes.

We took the Kelty Redwing Travel as carry-on from Denver to LA jam-packed full of stuff coming back from a conference. We've taken the Kelty Redwing Travel on countless flights, on a 2,000-mile, eight-city road trip, and on a camping and hiking trip. 

Ultimately, we found it heavy and the dimensions to be wide and stout. This made it more difficult to fit into smaller spaces. We also wanted more padding in the shoulder straps. This is still an excellent deal for a pack of this size, but is still $20 more than the similarly-sized REI Ruckpack.

Patagonia Black Hole Pack 25

Volumes available: 25, 32 L
Volume we tested: 25 L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? No
Hipbelt included? No
Hipbelt stows/removable? N/A
Luggage pass-through? Yes
AirTag Pocket? No
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 4
Weight: 1.4 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 17.9L/lb

If you’ve spent any time in an airport, you’d be hard pressed not to see a Patagonia travel pack. Patagonia adventure travel packs are popular for a reason—thoughtful designs that work well in both urban and outdoors occasions, bluesign-approved and 100% recycled materials, and attractive designs. And the Patagonia Black Hole Pack line is no exception.

The material of the Black Hole is a durable 100% recycled polyester ripstop with a matte, weather-resistant, recycled TPU-film laminate finish that wasn't quite as durable as we would like. 

We found taller and higher volume water bottles fall out. The large main compartment was difficult to pack with access from top only.

Ultimately, the Black Hole was too minimalist for many of our overnight travel needs.

Osprey Fairview 40 

Volumes available: 40, 55, 70 L
Volume we tested: 40 L
Water-resistant? Yes
Shoulder straps stow? Yes
Hipbelt included? Yes
Hipbelt stows/removable?  Yes/No
Luggage pass-through? No
AirTag Pocket? Yes
RFID blocker? No
Exterior pockets: 4
Weight: 3.4 lb
Weight to volume ratio: 12.4 L/ lb

The Osprey Fairview 40 is a versatile adventure travel backpack designed specifically for women, with adjustable torso straps, a suspension system, load-lifting LightWire frames, and a breathable harness and hip belt. This pack is spacious for longer trips, well organized, and equipped with outdoor and air travel-friendly features.

The Osprey Fairview 40 is a classic travel pack that is commonly seen on many travelers. We find that for our uses (travel to destinations and then doing some backpacking), the newer and re-designed Osprey Fairview Trek is a better fit. The harness, shoulder straps, and hipbelts are designed for backpacking and there's plenty of ventilation in the back, too.

The Fairview 40 has served us well over the years but there's a new kid in town and the redesigned features are worth making the upgrade.

What to look for in adventure travel backpacks

Capacity 

Most travel packs we tested have around 30-40L of capacity, which we found is ideal for long weekends. If you’re a minimalist packer, you may be able to get away with a week of travel in a ~40L pack. If you’re traveling for a weekend, the 30L should do. 

However, this is super dependent on the nature of your adventures, too. If your weekend trip involves a lot of gear (e.g. hiking and dressing up for a fancy dinner or a show), you may need a larger bag or better organization. For example, while the author preferred the NEMO Vantage 40L Endless Promise Overnight Travel Backpack over all other packs for most occasions, she opted for the Gregory Border on days she went from work to the crag to climb with friends due to its specific compartment for dirty clothes (useful for climbing shoes, chalk, a harness, etc.).

Size considerations (carry-on compliance)

If you’ll be catching flights, you’ll want to opt for an adventure travel backpack that is carry-on compliant. This compliance varies from country to country, so we recommend looking up the requirements where you’re likely to travel. A standard carry-on size in the US is 22” x 14” x 9”, but it’s a good idea to check with your airline. Some airlines are more strict than others, and some gate agents within airlines are more strict than others. 

Weight

If you’ll be carrying your travel pack on your back for long periods of time, you may want to consider weight. While capacity, organization, and comfort are probably more important factors, weight will be a consideration for travelers who will be doing a lot of walking or standing around with their pack on. Previously, our favorite lightweight option was the Six Moon Designs All Day Carry backpack because the pack is ultralight and constructed of extremely durable materials, leading to a longer life in your gear closet. It also has a suspension similar to a backpacking backpack as it is designed for thru-hiking the 500-mile long Camino de Santiago trail. 

Comfort

Like with weight, if you’ll be carrying this pack on your back for long periods of time, it's important that the pack is comfortable. Cushioned shoulder straps and back panels go a long way here, as well as breathability and airflow along the back and optional sternum and/or hip straps. This is one way the NEMO Vantage 40L Endless Promise Overnight Travel Backpack stood out from other packs—the cushioned straps and breathable and thoughtfully-designed back panel make this pack the most comfortable full-featured backpack.

Organization and accessibility features

Every pack has its own unique organization and accessibility setup. Some zip open along the top like a traditional backpack, some butterfly-open into two main compartments, some zip down along the front, and some zip almost all the way around (clamshell/D-zip or fillet-style/U-zip access). 

Each pack also has different compartment and pocket setups. To choose, we recommend considering your most common use cases and what you want to prioritize. For example, the Peak Design Travel Backpack is great for air travel and work commutes, but doesn’t have a compartment for laundry or shoes, whereas The North Face Base Camp Voyager 35L offers many compartments you can optimize for for work-to-gym days or adventure travel trips.

Durability for mixed environments

You’ll want a pack made of quality materials that can handle the environments you’ll be traveling in. If you’ll be in the rain a lot, you may want to consider waterproof packs like Six Moon Designs All Day Carry. Otherwise, water-resistant packs like the rest of our winners may do just fine (especially if you add a rain cover to pull out when needed). The REI Ruckpack 40 comes with a rain cover, while others would require a separate purchase.

Quality materials and construction is also important here because the goal is to only buy once (saving you money and keeping things out of the landfill!). Our testers (and the baggage handlers) are not gentle with gear, so we made sure to put these packs through it to ensure durability. This is what made the NEMO Vantage 40L a winner—it’s among the best as far as durability goes, plus it can be fully recycled at the end of its life as part of NEMO’s Endless Promise, making it a sustainable, worthwhile investment.

Adventure-specific features

Some packs offer convenient features for adventure travel, such as removable hip belts and sternum straps, hydration compatibility, carabiners and gear hooks, and easy-to-clean dirty laundry/gear compartments. Others include rain covers or other waterproofing. 

Security features for travel

Travel packs may have security features, such as zippers that lock. The Peak Design Travel Backpack, for example, has zipper locks that hold the zippers in place and zippers that can loop together so the compartments don’t zip open. Other packs, like the NEMO Vantage 40L, have hidden pockets where you can stow sensitive items like a passport or wallet. 

Versatility for different activities

Each of the adventure travel backpacks we tested shine in different ways and are best for different situations. We appreciate versatile packs that cover as many purposes as possible. Some packs are more rugged and better for outdoor adventures due to their waterproofness or durable construction, whereas others are more sleek and stylish for everyday commuting. Some have more or better organization options than others. 

We recommend considering how you plan to use your travel pack and choose the one that offers the best range of uses for you. 

Why you should buy an adventure travel backpack 

Versatility 

Adventure travel backpacks allow you to use one pack for a variety of scenarios, from air travel to day hikes and everything in between. Unlike travel luggage and hiking backpacks, an adventure travel pack should suit you for more than one purpose.

Comfort advantage

Another advantage to using a travel pack instead of wheeled luggage is in comfort and ease of travel. We assessed these packs on their comfort over long days of travel, and in some cases we wore them while also lugging around wheeled luggage. In this testing, we found we much preferred navigating transit and long travel days with a comfortable, padded adventure pack rather than traditional luggage. There’s nothing like hopping off a plane and walking with relative ease through crowds without worrying about luggage wheels on cracked sidewalks.

Freedom of movement

Alongside comfort, the freedom of movement you have while carrying an adventure travel pack rather than traditional luggage is a game changer. Our testers flew to other countries with many of these packs and loved that they could go from the airport, to the hostel, to walking tours, and to hikes and other outdoor activities with everything they needed on their back and their arms free.

Durability

We tested packs with quality materials and construction that could withstand the wear and tear of constant and varied use, like being tossed into cars or overhead bins, thrown to the dirt while crewing an ultramarathon, enduring long bouts of rain in Scotland and the Pacific Northwest, and being sprinkled with dirt and climbing chalk at the crag. A quality adventure travel pack should last for many years.

Organization benefits

A well-organized pack makes going from destination to destination much smoother. Since adventure travel backpacks are designed for both transit and exploration, you can pack, organize, and compartmentalize for both travel and, say, trail access.

Cost efficiency

Another benefit of choosing a travel backpack is in its cost efficiency–rather than purchasing luggage, a commuter bag, and a day hiking pack, you’re getting everything in one. Buying one quality pack that will last you years rather than multiple specialized bags saves you money, space in your closet, and trips to the landfill.

Adventure travel backpacks vs. traditional travel packs

Traditional travel luggage is great for air or car travel in that it is typically durable, has large capacity, and typically has features designed with airports in mind, like locks, wheels, and handles that tuck away. This is great if you only need to get from an airport to a hotel, for example. However, if you’re planning on bopping around cities, walking around for long periods with your luggage, or going straight to an outdoor activity, traditional travel packs are not convenient. 

Adventure travel packs, on the other hand, are designed with both travelers’ and adventurers’ needs in mind. That means the packs have many of the same features traditional luggage has–durable construction, handles, straps that tuck away, hidden pockets, and zippers that lock together or tuck away–while also prioritizing comfort on your back, weather resistance, and convenient compartments for outdoor activities. Adventure travel packs, in short, are also designed for movement.

Types of adventure travel backpacks explained 

Panel-loading vs. top-loading designs

A panel-loading, or front-loading, backpack works like more traditional luggage in that the main compartment opens up the front of the pack much like a suitcase. The benefit of this is easy access to the entire compartment and not having to dig around to find what you need, provided you have space to do this. This can be less convenient at, say, a crowded coffee shop.

Top-loading designs are more similar to hiking and backpacking backpacks in that you access the main compartment from the top of the pack. While this may mean digging for that one pair of socks that sank to the bottom, it can be more convenient when you’re on the go because you don’t have to spread the pack out as much. For example, while the panel-loading Peak Design Travel Backpack allows for great luggage-like organization, I found it more difficult to use in public because unzipping the main compartment resulted in a front-heavy leaning over and the risk of things falling out if I wasn’t careful.

So, in short, panel-loading or front-loading packs allow for better organization while traveling, whereas top-loading packs are easier for more moving around, whether that’s in from city to city or city to trail.

Some packs have unique compartment designs that don’t fit neatly in either category. The Gregory Border Traveler 30 unzips from the top, along the side, and across the bottom to butterfly open into two large compartments. This turned out to be convenient for travel and adventures that involved more shoes, laundry, or gear, as one compartment held clean clothes and the other held anything dirty.

Convertible vs. dedicated backpack styles

Convertible backpacks are ones that can be worn like traditional backpacks as well as a tote, duffel, messenger bag, and/or at your side like hand-held luggage. This offers more versatility than dedicated backpack styles, which are only worn as a backpack. We recommend a convertible style–like most of the packs we tested–if you’ll be taking your pack on a variety of excursions, especially if that involves air travel.

Carry-on vs. larger capacity options

Carry-on-compatible travel packs are convenient for frequent flyers looking to carry everything they need for short trips without having to check a bag. However, if you’ll be traveling for longer stints more often, are carrying more gear or apparel, or won’t be flying much, you may appreciate a 40-45L pack size.

Women-specific vs. unisex designs

When it comes to backpacks, a women's-specific design typically takes into account larger chest sizes, wider hips, shorter torsos, and more narrow shoulders compared to unisex designs. This isn’t to say women cannot wear unisex packs–our women’s testers found many of the unisex packs to be plenty comfortable–or that men couldn’t carry a women’s-specific pack. We believe in choosing the gear that is most comfortable for you, regardless of gender. We do, however, super appreciate when brands take into account the range of body types who enjoy the outdoors and travel.

The only women’s-specific travel pack we’ve tested is the Osprey Fairview 40L pack, which one of our women’s testers appreciated for its adjustable torso and load-lifting frame.

Budget vs. premium feature differences

We tested some adventure travel backpacks with really cool features we loved. However, you don’t need a fancy, expensive pack to enjoy adventure travel. Budget packs, like the REI Ruckpack 40, may not have the fancy zippers and leather features of the Peak Design Travel Backpack, or the ergonomic and breathable back panel design of the NEMO Vantage 40, but it’s still an effective adventure travel backpack.

If your budget allows for premium features, though, we recommend thinking about what you’ll be using your pack for most and what might be most important to you. If you’ll be doing a lot of air travel, zipper locking, stowable straps, carry-on compatibility, and a convertible design may be worth investing in. If you’ll be wearing your pack for long periods while traveling around cities or day hiking, strap comfort, back panel cushion and breathability, and multiple compartments/pockets may be your priorities. If you’ll be using this pack more in the outdoors than inside or in transit, waterproofness, hydration compatibility, lightweight materials, and gear-oriented compartments are likely more important to you.

Packing tips for adventure travel backpacks 

A huge benefit of adventure travel backpacks is how easy they make it to move from transit, lodging, and activities. This also tends to correlate with less packing space. Here is our advice for making the most of your backpack’s organization and capacity.

1. Select multi-use items

The first step is to consider how you can make the most of what you’re packing by choosing versatile clothing and gear options to save space. Clothing may be the easiest way to do this. We love clothing that works well for our adventures (e.g., is breathable, durable, moisture-wicking, and comfortable) and can be dressed up for days in town. 

For example, the author often packs clothing from brands like Royal Robbins, Paka, Cotopaxi, and Fjallraven because their clothing tends to operate in both the outdoor and lifestyle realms. For shoes, she’ll pack shoes she feels comfortable both walking around town in and going for a run in.  

2. Use Compression Straps

Stowing your items as small as possible will go a long way in allowing you to pack everything you need. Depending on the design of your pack, you can either utilize the compartments or use packing cubes to tighten your space (and, as a bonus, keep yourself more organized). For example, small interior mesh pockets may be great for socks and underwear. Folding or rolling your clothing in a packing cube will keep them as small as possible. 

Another related strategy is to pack from largest to smallest: that is, place your larger items in the backpack first, then tuck in smaller items where you see room. It’s like a game of Tetris and gets easier with practice.

3. Think about Accessibility

Once you get your compression technique down, the next consideration is which items you’ll need easy access to at different points in your trip. For example, at the airport you will want easy (to you, not to others) access to your wallet and passport (hidden exterior pockets are great for this), and perhaps your water bottle, book, phone, and snacks. Depending on your TSA situation, you may want easy access to your electronics and liquids at that point in the trip. 

If commuting to work, you may want easy access to your laptop. On the trail: hydration, snacks, phone, camera, binoculars, or whatever your adventure entails.

Since you’ll be packing relatively light, you may find yourself repacking at different points in the journey to optimize accessibility. Like with everything, this takes practice (but we think this is part of the fun!).

Care and maintenance tips 

Your adventure travel backpack is likely to get dirty. Most packs are made from easy-to-clean materials and may just need to be wiped off with a towel. We recommend checking the manufacturer’s care instructions for specific cleaning instructions. If it has spent time on a baggage carousel, you may need to wipe around some scuffs and do some spot cleaning.

After an adventure, it's a good idea to check your backpack for any issues. Zippers, pockets, and anywhere materials meet can be particularly prone to damage. You may be able to make easy fixes yourself, while some brands will fix or replace parts for you.

In general, these packs are durable and can withstand a lot of tossing around and use. If you can hang your pack on a hook when not in use, that is one of the best ways to keep it in good condition, but it should be fine just about anywhere as long as it’s not encountering sharp things that could tear it or tight spaces that may deform the shape or compromise the design.

FAQ

• What size adventure travel backpack do I need? 

  The adventure travel packs we tested range from 25-60 L in capacity. We found 30L to work well for weekend trips, and 40–45L to work well for up to a week of travel, depending on how you pack. This is, of course, dependent on what you’ll be packing—winter clothing and shoes take up more space than summer clothing, for example. If your trips often involve outdoor activities and more formal occasions, you may need more room to accommodate everything you’ll need.

• Can I use an adventure travel backpack for regular backpacking? 

  Most adventure travel backpacks work well for day hikes, but may be too small for backpacking trips. These packs have tech compartments and are designed more for travel rather than backcountry use. So while travel packs are great for their versatility, we wouldn’t recommend them for regular backpacking use. Instead, opt for a lightweight backpacking backpack for your overnight outdoor adventures.

• Are adventure travel backpacks carry-on compliant? 

  Most packs we tested are carry-on compliant. Some packs are not advertised as carry-on compliant, but we were able to get away with it. If you’ll be flying frequently, we recommend selecting a travel pack that specifically states it is carry-on compliant.

• How do I pack an adventure travel backpack for mixed activities? 

  Our testers have each honed their own packing skills. Some of the strategy comes down to the organization options your pack provides, but here are a few key philosophies. 

  1. Lay out everything you think you’ll need ahead of time. Over the course of the day, slowly remove items as you realize you won’t need them (this also gives you time to consider what you might have forgotten you’ll need, too).

  2. Compartmentalize your clothing in a way that makes sense to you, like keeping undergarments together in one compartment. Packing cubes can be helpful if your pack doesn’t have many separate compartments.

  3. Dedicate a compartment or cube to shoes and/or dirty laundry. This is important if you’ll be doing something like hiking—you don’t want dirt from your socks to get on the nice shirt you were going to wear for dinner, for example.

  4. Versatility is the name of the game. Shoes you feel comfortable walking in all day, going for runs in, and wearing with casual clothes helps with keeping your pack light. Clothes you can wear for a variety of occassions—like a hiking dress you can wear on the trail and dress up in town—also helps.

• What's the difference between adventure travel packs and hiking backpacks? 

  Adventure travel packs are designed for a variety of travel scenarios, like work commutes, air travel, and long days walking around. Unlike hiking backpacks, they have tech compartments. However, because they’re usually durable, weather resistant, and relatively comfortable and lightweight, they can also work for day hikes. 

  Hiking backpacks, however, are designed solely with hiking in mind. This means the organization, materials, and features are meant to cater to hikers and backpackers, such as hydration compatibility, comfortable hip belts and sternum straps, and a greater consideration for light weight. While adventure travel packs may also have some of the same qualities, they tend to be a bit heavier and not fully designed with hikers in mind.

• Do I need a rain cover for my adventure travel backpack? 

  Some adventure travel packs are waterproof, like the Six Moon Designs All Day Carry, while others are water resistant and can withstand light rain for a little bit. If you’ll be carrying your pack in the rain frequently, it may be a good idea to add a rain cover.

• How much should I spend on an adventure travel backpack? 

  A quality adventure travel backpack can range from about $100 to nearly $400, depending on what features, materials, organization, and construction you opt for. Our Best Budget option, the REI Ruckpack 40, costs $159 and is an effective option for those looking to keep costs down. 

  For those willing and able to spend a little more for more premium features and design, the NEMO Vantage 40L costs $250 and offers significant comfort, durable construction, and thoughtful organization. The Six Moon Designs All Day Carry 35L costs $335 and is made of ultralightweight and durable materials with backpacking and outdoor-oriented features.

  We recommend setting a budget and deciding which features are important to you.

• Can I take an adventure travel backpack on the Camino de Santiago? 

  You can! Adventure travel backpacks hover around the ideal size for a trek like the Camino de Santiago–about 30–45L. Our top choice, if it fits in your budget, is the Six Moon Designs All Day Carry. 

  This pack comes in 35L and 45L sizes, is ultralight, and is made of incredibly strong, durable, and UV and water-resistant material. The pockets and features are designed and placed with hikers who may be flying to their destination in mind, like the clam shell opening, easy inner straps to cinch down packing cubes, easy-to-adjust harness, carry-on compatibility, easy access to phone, and a secret pouch with an airtag holder.

How we researched and tested 

Our testers tested these travel backpacks on their adventures across the globe over the last year. 

We tested them in:

• the Scottish Highlands

• Ireland and Northern Ireland

• the Netherlands

• Japan

• Mexico

• In the US: Oregon, Washington, California, Nevada, Colorado, Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, West Virginia, Ohio, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New York. 

We took them on adventure travel trips that included hiking, biking, surfing, swimming, kayaking, and rappelling. They accompanied us on day hikes, city explorations, road trips, climbing meetups, sightseeing tourist destinations, plein air art festivals, before thru-hikes, and work-to-gym-to-happy-hour days. 

We took them on a four-state book tour, to conferences, and week-long work site visits as well as camping trips, ski trips, and family reunions.

While we traveled and adventured with these packs, we tested their durability, convenience and accessibility, organization, weather resilience, and how they performed across an array of trip and transit types. Our testers shared feedback with each other so we could determine which pack was best for various scenarios or qualities that matter to adventure travelers. 

• Flights, buses, ferries, and trains
• Day hikes and city explorations
• Road trips and ski weekends
• Work trips and daily commutes
• Festivals, climbing trips, and family travel

• All-day carrying comfort
• Organization and accessibility
• Airport and transit convenience
• Durability and weather resistance
• Versatility across travel and outdoor use

Why you should trust us / About the author 

Becca Downs spends a lot of time on the go, from weekend trips on the road to backpacking trips in the mountains, from adventure travel abroad to visiting friends around the country, she’s accustomed to constant packing, unpacking, and repacking. Over the last couple years, she’s tested many travel packs in a variety of settings: commutes from work to trail runs or climbing sessions to happy hour, overnight trips in Colorado mountain towns, crewing an ultra in Mexico, spending a week adventuring around Ireland, and much more.

Becca also ran D1 cross country and track for Indiana University—Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) and continued racing everything from elite miles to ultramarathons in her post-collegiate years. She earned a USATF Level 1 certification and coached boys and girls high school cross country and track in Indianapolis for four years. Becca then joined the IUPUI women’s distance coaching staff as a volunteer assistant coach in 2020-2021. Her years as an athlete and a coach included a lot of travel.

She geeks out on trail running and track and field, and cries every time she watches a marathon (they’re just so beautiful!). After notching a few small FKTs on her belt in 2020, she was diagnosed with hip arthritis and now channels her passion for running into coaching, writing, creating training plans for her friends, hiking, snowshoeing, and running when her hip allows it. 

You can read more of Becca's work at her website or on her author page.

August 24th, 2026
Home → Gear Reviews → Travel Gear

Travel requires different things from a water bottle than the one sitting on your desk or going on daily walks with you. Restrictions like airport security lines, tap water in unfamiliar countries, hands-free travel in crowded public transportation, and already heavy bags often determine if the bottle goes with you or gets left behind. 

And while there can be some overlap between a travel bottle and a hiking one, like packability, weight, and size, they do have certain differences. A good travel bottle can be filled from a hotel bathroom sink or a rural stream, purify water well enough that you can drink from anywhere, and offer a comfortable carry whether inside a backpack or in your hand.

We tested each bottle across different travel conditions, like security checkpoints, a backseat pocket on a flight, in a car cup holder, and during full days of walking, fishing, and trips to destinations where water quality varies. Testing criteria included how small each bottle packed down, whether it leaked after being tossed around, how easy it was to fill from a low-flow water fountain to a narrow hotel tap, filter performance where relevant, and how much a bottle weighed relative to how much water it held. 

Our pick for best overall is the Grayl UltraPress Water Filter and Purifier Bottle. It solves one key problem many travelers have about water quality directly, especially for international travel. It purifies water in about eight seconds with a simple press mechanism without any additional filtration step. The Grayl UltraPress holds its shape, its seal, and its filter performance so you can get away with a lower capacity bottle that can be refilled anywhere as needed. 

Here's the full breakdown of every bottle we tested and how each one stacks up. And if you’re packing for an adventure, check out our Adventure Travel Gear Checklist.

This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission without costing you an extra cent. This allows us to create reader-supported objective gear reviews. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Comparison table

The winners

Best overall travel water bottle: Grayl UltraPress Water Filter and Purifier Bottle

Price: $90
Capacity: 16.9 oz
Empty weight: 12.5 oz 
Dimensions (full): 9.75" H x 2.95” diameter 
Collapsible: No
Filter: Yes; cartridge
Filter lifespan: 300 cycles/ 40 gallons
What it removes: Waterborne pathogens (99.99% of viruses, 99.9999% of bacteria, 99.9% of protozoan cysts), including Rotavirus, Hepatitis A, Norovirus, Giardiasis, Cryptosporidium, E. coli, Cholera, Salmonella, Shigella, and more.
Replacement filter cost: $31.95
Insulated: No 
Material: Made from BPA-free polypropylene #5, food-grade silicone, TPE and ABS food-grade plastic.
Mouth width: Wide 
Lid/valve type: Screw cap
Leakproof: Yes
Fits standard cup holder: Yes 
Dishwasher safe? Y, without filter component. hand-wash recommended
BPA-free: Yes
What we liked: Easy to use straight out of the box, comfortable hand carry and fits in standard backpack pocket 
What we didn't like: The screw cap isn’t connected to the bottle, and you run the risk of losing it.

The Grayl UltraPress Water Filter and Purifier Bottle is an easy to use filter water bottle that is ideal for all kinds of travel situations.

We tested the bottle in the field on a four-day fishing trip, filling up on the go, from hotel sinks and during air travel. In all cases, it was easy to use right out of the box and the handle was comfortable to hold for an extended period. It even fit in the cup holder on a drift boat. 

Pressing the filter canister down takes less than a minute to figure out before it becomes second nature. The material is sturdy and didn’t dent or scratch even after being tossed around the boat while crossing a Class III rapid. It also comes in a larger 24-oz size (and a titanium version, which does dent), which we field tested on a hike in a state park, but was a bit of an overkill in terms of capacity for smaller excursions or ones where you are close to a safe water source. 

This filter bottle might be an overkill if you only plan to stay in areas where water quality is superb like resorts or hotels with water treated supply. However, for most travelers, the Grayl UltraPress is an easy-to-use, comfortable, and practical water bottle for travel anywhere.

Best affordable travel water bottle: Cnoc 28mm Vesica 1L Collapsible Water Bottle

Price: $17
Capacity: 32 oz
Empty weight: 2.4 oz
Dimensions (full): 11.5" H x 2.9" x 2.9" (trail/expanded size); packed size 4" x 2.9" x 2.9"
Collapsible: Yes
Filter: No (but threads directly onto external filters like Sawyer Squeeze, Sawyer Mini/Micro, LifeStraw Flex)
Insulated: No
Material: 0.4mm TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane)
Mouth width: 28mm standard thread
Lid/valve type: Tethered screw cap, with a pull-string for grabbing from side pockets
Leakproof: Yes
Fits standard cup holder: Yes
Dishwasher safe? Hand-wash recommended
BPA-free: Yes
What we like: Packable and large capacity, compatible with most filters for use in the outdoors. 
What we didn’t like: A plasticky smell when using the bottle in hot and humid climates.

Even though the Cnoc 28mm Vesica 1L Collapsible Water  Bottle is more appropriate for backpacking than travel, it can work as a backup option for long travel days, especially to hot climates where the larger capacity is useful. It’s packable, high capacity, and compatible with most filters, making it great for adventure travel that involves international travel, backpacking, hiking, packrafting, or bikepacking.

We used it exclusively during a trip to Germany and found it to be a great lightweight option for carry-on only travel. The drawstring can also be hooked onto the outside of a backpack or purse for hands-free travel. 

This water bottle is perfect for cool weather climates where packing space is a premium. Avoid using it in really hot climates where it is exposed to direct sunlight. For more backpacking-friendly bottles, check out our backpacking filters guide. 

Best collapsible water bottle for travel: HYDAWAY Collapsible Water Bottle

Price: $35
Capacity: 25 oz
Empty weight: 6.3 oz
Dimensions (full): 8" H x 4.25" diameter (expanded); 1.5" H x 4.25" collapsed
Collapsible: Yes
Filter: No
Insulated: No
Material: Made from food-grade silicone and BPA-free plastic
Mouth width: Wide
Lid/valve type: Flip-top straw lid, fits into fold when collapsed
Leakproof: Yes
Fits standard cup holder: Only when filled; when collapsed it can fit sideways
Dishwasher safe? Yes
BPA-free: Yes
What we liked: Compact size, carry-case with clip for hands-free carry
What we didn’t like: The sip straw was a bit difficult to use when the bottle is not full

The HYDAWAY Collapsible Water Bottle was one of the most compact bottles we tested, making it a great option for lightweight and carry-on-only travel.

We carried the HYDAWAY collapsed down to its full 1.5" flat profile in a carry case for a day of exploring a city on foot, and it clipped to the side of our tote bag. It slid just as easily into a jacket pocket and would work great for anyone trying to save space. We also used it on a flight, filling it up at a water fountain before boarding and letting it collapse flat in our bag for the rest of the trip. That's really where this bottle is most useful—it takes up very little space until you need it.

The flip-top lid and valve do take more effort than a standard screw cap or press-button lid. Unfolding the bottle from flat and popping the spout open both require a firm grip, and a bit more work than simply reaching for a rigid bottle. It's not a dealbreaker, but it's not something you'll do one-handed without a little practice.

Best filter water bottle for travel: LifeStraw Go Series Filter Water Bottle

Price: $45
Capacity: 22 oz
Empty weight: 8.7 oz
Dimensions (full): 9.4" H x 2.8" diameter 
Collapsible: No
Filter: Yes, 2-stage membrane microfiber and activated carbon
Filter lifespan: Membrane for 1,000 gal (4,000 L); Carbon for 26 gal (100 L), or ~2 months of regular use
What it removes: Bacteria (99.999999%, incl. E. coli, Salmonella), protozoa/parasites (99.999%, incl. Giardia, Cryptosporidium), microplastics (99.999%), silt/sand/cloudiness; carbon stage reduces chlorine, organic chemicals, and odors
Replacement filter cost: $25 (membrane microfilter), $10 (carbon filter 2-pack)
Flow rate: Moderate with suction on the straw mouthpiece 
Insulated: No
Material: BPA-free plastic, made with recycled materials
Mouth width: Narrow sip mouthpiece
Lid/valve type: Screw cap with leakproof silicone mouthpiece
Leakproof: Yes
Fits standard cup holder: Yes
Dishwasher safe? Body only, hand-wash sip mouthpiece and filter
BPA-free: Yes
What we liked: The two-stage filtration system and leakproof mouthpiece.
What we didn't like: The suction draw takes more effort than a standard straw and getting water involves the additional step of unscrewing the lid to get to the straw

The LifeStraw Go Series Filter Water Bottle filters out bacteria (like E. coli and Salmonella) and protozoa (like Giardia and Cryptosporidium), along with microplastics and sediment, but it does not remove viruses like hepatitis A or norovirus. So, it will work for backcountry water in the U.S., Canada, and similar regions where waterborne viruses are rare.

We tested it in a fast-flowing stream and were comfortable drinking the water since the headwaters were in Oregon. The leakproof mouthpiece also handles being tossed around in a bag without worrying about spills. The carry handle can pass through a medium-size carabiner to clip onto a bag strap or backpack bungee cord. 

If you're traveling somewhere like South Asia, parts of Latin America, or areas recovering from natural disasters — a filter-only bottle like this one isn't enough on its own. Check out our best backpacking filters guide for other options that will purify the water as well. 

Best lightweight travel water bottle: Nalgene Bottle, The GEOPROJECT National Park Sticker 

Price: $28
Capacity: 32 oz (1 liter)
Empty weight: 6.3 oz
Dimensions (full): 7.9" H x 3.6" diameter
Collapsible: No
Filter: No
Insulated: No
Material: Tritan Renew copolyester, made from 50% waste plastic (ISCC-certified mass balance)
Mouth width: Wide
Lid/valve type: Screw cap
Leakproof: Yes
Fits standard cup holder: No
Dishwasher safe? Yes, top shelf; hand-wash recommended for the stickers
BPA-free: Yes
What we liked: Lightest bottle tested at 6.3 oz empty which is as much as a standard smartphone (6.5 oz), price, and durability
What we didn’t like: Occasionally, the cap threading comes off the groove slip

We have carried Nalgene bottles across dozens of flights, city day trips, and outdoor outings through the years, and its durability is amazing. It's the kind of bottle you forget you're carrying. The cap threading does loosen slightly with heavy use year after year, but it never cracked, split, or leaked.

We tested THE GEOPROJECT National Sticker Nalgene water bottle while exploring a city and found it a bit bulky to carry handheld. It works great for situations where it is either stored in a bag or clipped to a backpack as it is not convenient to hand carry for an extended time period. You can also find Nalgene bottles in a variety of volumes, widths, and mouth opening sizes, so you can get the size that fits best in your water bottle pocket, cup holders, or whatever else you need to consider for travel.

This isn’t a fancy option, but it is a reliable and lightweight one. If you’re looking for something insulated or filtering/purifying, you’ll want to look elsewhere. But if you want a lightweight, affordable, reliable option, this water bottle will serve you well.

Best insulated travel water bottle: Hydro Flask 32 oz Travel Bottle with Flex Straw Cap

Price: $45
Capacity: 32 oz
Empty weight: 16.5 oz
Dimensions (full): 11.10" H x 3.30" diameter 
Collapsible: No
Filter: No
Insulated: Yes with TempShield double-wall vacuum insulation that keeps drinks cold for 24 hours
Material: Double-walled stainless steel
Mouth width: Wide and compatible with all Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Lids
Lid/valve type: Flex Straw Cap
Leakproof: Yes
Fits standard cup holder: Yes, as the base is narrower than the top part of the bottle
Dishwasher safe? Yes
BPA-free: Yes
What we liked: The Flex Straw Cap for effortless one-handed sipping, soft and flexible carry handles
What we didn't like: At just over a pound empty and 11.10” tall, it doesn’t fit completely in many backpack side pockets. 

For travel, the Hydro Flask Travel Bottle with Flex Straw Cap holds cold beverages throughout the day. The straw lid also actually stays sealed when jostled or upside-down in a bag.

We tested this bottle on a flight with cold water that stayed cool for the entire duration of the trip. We also found it to be useful for a full day of walking for its large capacity. It’s leakproof and dishwasher safe, and the Flex Straw Cap works well for one-handed, on-the-go sipping. 

While it might not be the first choice for a quick jaunt, it is worth carrying for trips to hot or cold climates. If you want more options for insulated bottles, check out our best hiking water bottles guide.

Best travel water bottle for international travel: Ocean Bottle Peak Go

Price: $42
Capacity: 24 oz
Empty weight: 16.1 oz
Dimensions (full): 10.8" H x 3.0" diameter
Collapsible: No
Filter: No
Insulated: Yes, cold drinks stay cold for 15 hours
Material: 90% recycled stainless steel
Mouth width: Narrow (soft-bite mouthpiece, fast-flow straw)
Lid/valve type: Locking flip cap with straw 
Leakproof: Yes, 100% leakproof
Fits standard cup holder: Yes, it has a slim design for cupholder compatibility
Dishwasher safe? Yes 
BPA-free: Yes
What we liked: The all-metal, 90% recycled stainless-steel build, steel straw, and rugged rubber base
What we didn’t like: It didn’t hold up well in a pressurized cabin when full

The Ocean Bottle Peak Go is our pick for international travel because it can withstand a lot of heavy use, fits well in water bottle pockets and cup holders, and is easy to drink from on the go. We also appreciate that it’s made from 90% recycled stainless steel.

We used the Peak Go as our primary travel bottle for two weeks in Scotland on trains, rental cars, and day hikes. The rubber base made it very durable, including a hard drop onto stone flooring with no real damage. We even carried hot tea on a particularly cold morning, and the steel straw was particularly helpful. It has a slim profile so fits easily in cup holders and backpack side pockets. 

The best part of this bottle is the flexible loop carry that can be hand held or clipped to a backpack. It might not be best for someone who is doing a lot of air travel as the straw doesn’t work as well in a pressurized cabin, but is durable and easy to use over long trips and all other forms of transit. For flights, we just recommend not filling the bottle all the way.

Best hard-sided travel water bottle: BrüMate Rise Insulated Water Bottle

Price: $38
Capacity: 25 oz
Empty weight: 17.1 oz
Dimensions (full): 10" H (incl. straw) x 2.98" diameter (body) x 3.57" wide (incl. handle)
Collapsible: No
Filter: No
Insulated: Yes, BevGuard insulation
Insulation claim: 24+ hours ice retention 
Material: Stainless steel with a removable silicone sleeve
Mouth width: Narrow with covered removable sip opening
Lid/valve type: MagFlip locking lid
Leakproof: Yes, 100% leakproof
Fits standard cup holder: Yes
Dishwasher safe? Yes, top-rack dishwasher safe
BPA-free: Yes
What we liked: Stainless steel interior, soft grip carry top, supports both sip and chug options
What we didn’t like: Sip option was a little difficult to use when the bottle was almost empty

The BrüMate Rise Insulated Water Bottle is our pick for best hard-sided travel water bottle because of its hardy, stainless steel construction, soft grip carry top, and leakproofness.

We brought the BrüMate along on a multi-day fishing trip, using it both out on the boat and back at the hotel in the evenings. On the water, the weight worked in its favor because it didn't tip or slide around with the boat's motion the way a lighter bottle might, and the MagFlip lid made one-handed sips easy while we kept a rod in the other hand. It also didn’t leak even when it was placed sideways in a tote bag. It did fit in a standard economy seat-back pocket, so it's a reasonable travel companion despite the weight.

This bottle is best for situations where you need beverages to be insulated. It might not work for long travel days where you can’t refill it often as it needs to be at least half full for the sip option to work correctly. 

Best water bottle for air travel: YETI Rambler 18 oz Water Bottle

Price: $32-37
Capacity: 18 oz
Empty weight: 19.2 oz
Dimensions (full): 10.2" H x 3.0" diameter
Collapsible: No
Filter: No
Insulated: Yes, double-wall vacuum insulation
Material: Stainless steel (kitchen-grade, puncture and rust-resistant)
Mouth width: Standard and compatible with other interchangeable Rambler lids
Lid/valve type: Chug cap
Leakproof: Yes 
Fits standard cup holder: Yes
Fits in standard airline seat-back pocket: Yes
Spill-proof in a pressurized cabin: Yes
Dishwasher safe? Yes
BPA-free: Yes
What we liked: Virtually indestructible and durable
What we didn’t like: Heavy design and lid need to be completely removed to access water 

The YETI Rambler 18 oz Water Bottle is a highly durable, stainless steel water bottle great for travelers who are hard on their gear.

We have traveled with the Rambler on several domestic and international flights, and there is no seeping or burping during ascent or descent, and no residual pressure buildup when we open it mid-flight. The chug cup is easy to use and completely leakproof even when placed upside down.

This bottle is best for travel situations that are demanding on your gear like backpacking, rafting, or rock climbing. It is durable and can withstand almost anything including being dropped. However it is heavy so might not be suited for weight restricted carry. 

Other travel water bottles we tested

Owala FreeSip

Price: $30
Capacity: 24 oz
Empty weight: 13.4 oz
Dimensions (full): 10.68" x 3.12"
Collapsible: No
Filter: No
Insulated: Yes, triple-layered and vacuum sealed stainless steel, keeps drinks cold for 24 hours
Material: Stainless steel bottle; BPA-, lead-, and phthalate-free plastic lid and silicone seal 
Mouth width: Wide opening to refill, chug and sip spout 
Lid/valve type: Push button, push top lid
Leakproof: Yes
Fits standard cup holder: Yes 
Fits in standard airline seat-back pocket: Yes 
Spill-proof in a pressurized cabin: Yes
Dishwasher safe? Yes
BPA-free: Yes

The Owala FreeSip bottle is all the rage thanks to its dual sip and chug option. While we appreciate the sip and chug design, we found it takes practice to open the bottle one-handed, and the carry-handle needs to be on the opposite side of the press button for it to work. However, this bottle could be suitable for outdoor activities where you have the time to put down any other gear you may be carrying and use both hands to operate the bottle.

Sans Self-Cleaning Water Bottle

Price: $80
Capacity: 17 oz
Empty weight: 14.5 oz
Dimensions (full): 10.2” x 2.9”
Collapsible: No
Filter: No, UV-C self–cleaning technology
Insulated: Y, double walled and vacuum sealed
Material: 18/8 food-grade stainless steel with BPA-free plastic UV cap and silicone seal
Mouth width: Wide
Lid/valve type: Screw-on UV-C twist cap
Leakproof: Yes
Fits standard cup holder: Yes 
Fits in standard airline seat-back pocket: Yes 
Spill-proof in a pressurized cabin: Yes
Dishwasher safe? Yes, hand-wipe only recommended for cap
BPA-free: Yes

The Sans Self-Cleaning Water Bottle uses UV light to purify and self-clean itself and is an insulated bottle that can handle hot and cold drinks. It is expensive for the limited water capacity and also depends on USB-C charging to work. However, folks may prefer it for short outdoor excursions where water quality needs purification and short day trips during which charging wouldn’t be an issue.

Grayl GeoPress

Price: $100
Capacity: 24 oz
Empty weight: 15.9 oz 
Dimensions (full): 10.4" H x 3.4” diameter 
Collapsible: No
Filter: Yes; cartridge
Filter lifespan: 350 cycles / 65 gallons
What it removes: Waterborne pathogens (99.99% of viruses, 99.9999% of bacteria, 99.9% of protozoan cysts), including Rotavirus, Hepatitis A, Norovirus, Giardiasis, Cryptosporidium, E. coli, Cholera, Salmonella, Shigella, and more.
Replacement filter cost: $30
Insulated: No 
Material: Made from BPA-free polypropylene #5, food-grade silicone, TPE and ABS food-grade plastic.
Mouth width: Wide 
Lid/valve type: Screw cap
Leakproof: Yes
Fits standard cup holder: No 
Dishwasher safe? Y, without filter component. Hand-wash recommended.
BPA-free: Yes

The Grayl GeoPress is a 24-oz capacity bottle so it is great for larger groups or longer excursions where you don’t have access to refills. The cap is also connected to the bottle so it is less likely to get lost or fall in the dirt between fillups. It has a larger capacity, is heavier, and not really needed for a small group or short day trips where a water source is readily available. However, it is more suitable for multi-day adventures where water isn’t readily available or rugged outdoor excursions.

What to look for in travel water bottles

Capacity and packed size

For most trips, a bottle between 16 to 25 oz is enough to get you through a flight or a day of sightseeing without needing a refill every hour. Bigger bottles (40 oz and up) are good for travel to hot climates or itineraries where water availability and quality are uncertain. 

Size also matters when space is limited. A rigid 32-oz bottle will take up the same space empty or full, so be mindful when you are traveling carry-on only. If you're limited on space, choose a narrow bottle that can fit in a backpack's side pocket since capacity doesn’t matter if it doesn't fit where it should.

Rigid vs. collapsible

Rigid bottles are durable, easy to clean, and generally better insulated, but they do take up space in your bag even if empty which can be an issue if space is tight. 

Collapsible bottles solve the packed-size problem by folding flat when not in use. This is ideal for minimalist packing or day trips where you only need water part of the time. The tradeoff is that collapsible materials (usually silicone or soft plastic) are harder to clean thoroughly, prone to developing a plastic or rubber taste. 

If you're doing serious outdoor travel, rigid is worth the extra bulk and if you're optimizing for airline packing and only need water occasionally, collapsible works better.

Filter vs. no filter

A bottle with a built-in filter is a worthy investment if you're heading somewhere with questionable water quality, as you can refill from taps or streams without buying bottled water everywhere. But filters add cost, weight, and maintenance with regular cleaning or replacements. You also run the risk of cheap ones giving false confidence against contaminants they don't remove, so make sure to check the filter rating. 

Filters that block bacteria and protozoa are common while viruses and heavy metals ones often aren't. For genuinely remote or high-risk water sources, pair a filter with purification tablets as a backup. You can learn more in our Best Backpacking Water Filters and Purifiers guide.

Lid and valve design

Screw-top lids are the most reliable for leakproofness and are easy to clean, but they're slower to open one-handed if you are juggling luggage through security or navigating a crowded public transportation. 

Flip-top and buttons are faster and more convenient for frequent sipping, but they introduce more moving parts that can wear out or fail to seal properly over time. 

Straw-lid designs are great for sipping while walking or driving but tend to be the hardest to clean thoroughly, since bacteria and mold can build up inside the straw. 

If you're choosing one bottle for everything, a well-made screw-top with a wide mouth is a good option for travel.

Weight and material

Stainless steel bottles are virtually indestructible and keep drinks cold for hours but can be heavy to carry around all day. Plastic (BPA-free copolyester) is the lightest option and often the most packable, which is great for minimizing weight. If you're traveling by car or on a hotel-based trip, the insulation and durability of stainless steel is a good choice.

Leakproofness

A bottle’s leakproofness depends on lid design and gasket quality. Screw-top lids with a single rubber gasket are generally more reliable than bottles with multiple seals, straws, or flip mechanisms. These can also leak under pressure changes on a flight. Make sure to test new bottles at home by flipping it upside down or shaking it around to make sure it doesn’t leak. Cabin pressure changes during flights can cause even normally leakproof bottles to seep, so be careful while opening to avoid sudden overflows.

Ease of cleaning

Wide-mouth bottles with simple screw lids are easy to clean with a bottle brush from top to bottom. Straws, valves, and collapsible silicone walls need extra care as they are prone to mold or odor, especially if you're using the bottle for anything other than just water. For juice, electrolyte mixes, or coffee, prioritize a bottle you can disassemble completely and clean thoroughly.

TSA and airport compliance

The good news is that empty bottles of any size are allowed through TSA security. Metal and rigid plastic bottles empty completely while collapsible bottles sometimes retain moisture in folds, so make sure to check before screening. If your bottle has a built-in filter, agents may ask to inspect it separately, especially in countries not used to such mechanisms. 

Types of travel water bottles explained

Rigid plastic bottles

Rigid plastic bottles are lightweight, inexpensive, and durable enough for everyday travel without denting. They're easy to clean, don't retain odors and best of all, won't shatter if dropped, unlike glass. They are a good option when you want something reliable and low-maintenance. 

Stainless steel bottles 

Stainless steel bottles are a standout choice for temperature retention but can dent if dropped. They don't retain odors the way plastic does. The downside is that steel is heavier than plastic or collapsible bottles. They work best for situations where durability and temperature control matter. 

Collapsible silicone bottles 

Collapsible silicone bottles roll or fold down to a fraction of their full size when empty and are great for minimalistic packing situations. However, they can be harder to clean thoroughly and some bottles flop over or fold when they are not full. They're a good compromise for space-conscious travelers but not suitable for rugged use.

Soft flasks

Soft flasks, which are common in running, are made from thin, flexible plastic or laminate and are extremely light and packable. They are great as a backup or supplemental bottle rather than a primary one since the thin plastic is prone to punctures. Check out our Best Running Water bottles guide for more info.

Filter bottles 

Filter bottles have filtration inside the bottle that lets you refill from taps or natural water sources in places where water quality is uncertain. They are great for travel to regions with unreliable tap water, since they eliminate the cost and hassle of buying bottled water constantly. They're worth the investment for higher-risk destinations. 

UV purifier bottles

UV purifier bottles use a built-in UV-C light to neutralize bacteria, viruses, and protozoa in water, which is a broader range of pathogens than many filters remove. However, they often need batteries or charging so you have an additional step of care and preparedness. They're a strong option for unpredictable water quality situations and when you don’t mind the extra work for using them.

Choosing a travel water bottle by trip type

For short city trips with safe tap water, a basic plastic or steel bottle is enough. For air travel, use rigid bottles with a screw-top lid to avoid leaks, and refill after security. For destinations with virus risk, choose a UV purifier or pair a filter with purification tablets. For mixed city-and-outdoors trips, a durable filter bottle can cover both. For carry-on-only travel, a collapsible bottle saves space and for hot climates, an insulated steel bottle is worth the extra weight to keep water colder for longer.