alexia wilson

Andrew MacNeil

Jackson M

Best Women’s Hiking Shoes of 2022

Research isn’t nearly as fun as getting out there and exploring. There are a ton of great options for hiking shoes and it can be overwhelming to sort through them and pare them down to a shortlist of shoes worth buying. To help make it easier to find the right ones for you, here are our favorite women’s hiking shoes of 2022.

Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped
Score: 4.7 / 5.0 

Merrell Women's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Boot 

La Sportiva Women’s Bushido II Trail Running Shoes 

KEEN Women's Targhee 3 Mid Waterproof Boot
Score: 4.5 / 5.0 

Salomon Women’s X Ultra Pioneer Mid CSWP Hiking Boots
Score: 4.4 / 5.0 

Water Resistance Level: Waterproof

We’ve selected these because they’re made by reputable companies in the outdoor space, have extremely high customer ratings, and are well balanced hiking shoes that excel in varied weather and terrain. Any of the above will be a great selection and provide you many trail miles of enjoyment over multiple hiking seasons. 

The Aventura team page - check it out for trips, guides, gear recs, inspiration and more. 

Best Hiking Backpack of 2023

Granite Gear's Blaze 60 is a popular choice am ong backpackers and hikers due to its unique blend of durability, comfort, and lightweight design. As of my last update in September 2021, here's a comprehensive review based on various user experiences and expert opinions.

Weight: Generally around 3 lbs (1.36 kg), which is considered lightweight for a 60L pack.

Material: Robic nylon with a reinforced weave makes it durable and abrasion-resistant.

+ Adjustable Fit: The Blaze 60 offers an adjustable torso length and hip belt, allowing users to find the best fit for their body type.

+ Comfort: Many users have commented on the pack's excellent load transfer and lumbar support, which helps in distributing weight effectively on the hips and relieving the shoulders from excessive strain.

+ Durability: The Robic nylon material and the reinforced weave provide a robust and durable structure, ensuring the bag withstands rough terrains and long trips.

+ Simplicity: The Blaze 60 boasts a minimalist design, which can be appealing for those who appreciate simplicity and are looking for a straightforward, no-frills pack.

+ Compression: The pack has a series of compression straps which help stabilize the load and reduce volume if the pack isn't full.

+ Ventilation: The Air Current frame provides a channel that promotes airflow, helping to keep the user's back cooler.

- Price: For some, the cost of the Blaze 60 might be on the higher side. However, the price is reflective of its quality and features.

- Limited Pockets: While it has a minimalist design, some users feel that additional pockets or compartments might have been useful, especially for organizing gear.

- Top Lid: Some versions of the Blaze 60 do not come with a top lid (though you can purchase it separately). This might be a downside for those who appreciate the additional storage and protection a lid offers.

- No Included Rain Cover: At its price point, some users expect an included rain cover. However, it's sold separately.

The Granite Gear Blaze 60 is a very solid choice for both weekend hikers and long-distance backpackers. Its strength lies in its comfort, durability, and simplicity. Those seeking tons of features or pockets might be slightly disappointed, but for many, its minimalist approach is a key selling point. Like all gear, it's essential to try it on and ensure it fits your personal needs and body type before committing to it.

Suunto vs Garmin: A Deep Dive into the World of Elite Adventure Watches

Adventurers and tech enthusiasts, in the world of high-performance watches, two names stand out: Suunto and Garmin. Renowned for their robust features and state-of-the-art technology, these brands have become go-to choices for anyone serious about outdoor and fitness activities. But when it comes to choosing between Suunto and Garmin, how do you decide which one is right for you? Let’s break down what each brand offers, comparing their top models, features, and prices, to help you make an informed decision for your next outdoor adventure companion.

Suunto: Precision and Durability from Finland
Suunto, hailing from Finland, has carved a niche for itself with watches that are not only tough but also pack a punch in terms of technological prowess.

Robust Build: Suunto watches are known for their durability, capable of withstanding extreme conditions.

Battery Life: They offer impressive battery life, essential for long expeditions.

Navigation Capabilities: With accurate GPS and a strong focus on navigation features, Suunto watches are ideal for serious hikers and mountaineers.

Suunto 9 Baro: Known for its long battery life and barometric altitude information, perfect for endurance sports. Priced around $600.

Suunto 7: A smartwatch that combines sports features with everyday usability. Runs on Wear OS by Google, priced at about $500.

Suunto Core: A classic outdoor watch, known for its altimeter, barometer, and compass functions, available around $300.

Outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability and battery life.

Adventurers who require advanced navigation features.

Garmin: Innovation and Versatility in One
Garmin, an American giant in the world of GPS technology, brings innovation and versatility to its range of watches, catering to a wide spectrum of activities.

Wide Range of Models: Garmin offers a more extensive range of models, catering to various sports and activities.

Health and Fitness Tracking: With advanced sensors, Garmin watches excel in health and fitness monitoring.

Smart Connectivity: Most models offer smart notifications, music storage, and payment capabilities.

Garmin Fenix 6 Series: The ultimate multisport GPS watch, offering mapping, music, and more. Prices start at around $600.

Garmin Forerunner 945: A premium GPS running/triathlon watch with music. Priced around $600.

Garmin Instinct: Rugged and reliable, with GPS, at a more affordable price point of about $300.

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts who need detailed health and activity tracking.

Users who want a watch that integrates seamlessly with their everyday tech needs.

Comparing Suunto and Garmin:
When choosing between Suunto and Garmin, consider what aspects of a watch are most important for your activities and lifestyle.

Navigation and Battery Life: Suunto often has the edge in pure navigational features and battery life, making them ideal for long treks and remote adventures.

Fitness and Smart Features: Garmin takes the lead with its comprehensive health tracking and smartwatch functionalities, suitable for training and daily use.

Design and Usability: Both brands offer sleek designs and user-friendly interfaces, but the choice comes down to personal preference and specific feature requirements.

Entry-Level: For around $300, you can get robust models like the Suunto Core or Garmin Instinct, offering basi   c outdoor functionalities.

Mid-Range: At about $500, options like the Suunto 7 and Garmin Forerunner 945 provide more advance  d features suitable for serious athletes.

High-End: With $600 and above, you can explore flagship models like the Suunto 9 Baro and Garmin Fenix 6 Series, which offer the best of navigation, sports tracking, and smartwatch capabilities.

Conclusion:
Choosing between Suunto and Garmin comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Are you heading into the wild, untamed backcountry where robust build and navigation are crucial? Suunto might be your best bet. Or are you looking for an all-rounder that tracks your health metrics, plays your favorite tunes, and still supports your active lifestyle? Then Garmin could be the way to go. Whichever you choose, both brands promise to be reliable companions on your journey, blending technology with adventure in the most exciting ways. Get ready to gear up and explore – your perfect adventure watch awaitsSuunto and Garmin are two popular brands that produce high-quality sports and outdoors watches and other fitness devices. While both brands offer a wide range of features and functions, there are some key differences between them that may influence your decision when choosing between the two.

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<span data-offset-key="cemsn-0-0" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, &quot;Noto Sans&quot;, sans-serif, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, &quot;Apple Color Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Symbol&quot;, &quot;Noto Color Emoji&quot;; font-size: 16px; background-color: unset !important; color: rgb(55, 65, 81); font-weight: bold;">Garmin Fenix 6 Series

Top Hiking Daypacks of 2023

Whether you're embarking on brief day hikes, challenging summit scrambles, or full-day journeys into the wilderness, having the right backpack is crucial. The typical hiker will carry essentials such as food and water, a layering piece and a rain shell, and other handy items like a first-aid kit or headlamp. The duration of your hike significantly influences the importance of comfort, capacity, and additional features. Check out the rest of our post below, where we explore the top daypacks of 2023, ranging from basic and affordable models for leisurely hikes, to more luxurious and feature-rich alternatives for extended adventures. 

Perfect for daily excursions, overnight trips, and travel, the durable and cozy REI Co-op Trail 40 women's backpack provides effortless access to your equipment, a multitude of organizing compartments, and a pleasant carrying experience.

Let your imagination guide your journey and carry essentials such as hydration, food, and extra clothing layers with the Osprey Talon 22 men's pack. Ideal for day-hiking, biking, or peak-bagging, it's set to become your preferred carry-all solution.

Equipped with a 3L Hydro reservoir, the Gregory Nano 22 H2O hydration pack is perfect for brief ventures to witness the sunset or for weekend stays at your much-loved mountain music festival.

The women's Gregory Jade 28 pack, featuring a comfortable dynamic suspension and abundant space, is perfect for lengthy day hikes or any occasion that demands a significant amount of gear, ensuring you can carry all your necessities with ease.

Introducing your new preferred carry-all solution for day-hiking, biking, or peak-bagging - the women's Osprey Tempest 20 pack. This backpack effortlessly accommodates your hydration, food, and additional clothing layers, accompanying you wherever your adventurous spirit leads.

Perfect for day trips, overnight stays, and travel, the durable and comfortable REI Co-op Trail 40 women's pack allows for effortless access to your belongings, provides ample organizer compartments, and ensures a comfortable carrying experience.

REI Co-op Traverse 32

Osprey Talon 22

Gregory Nano 22

Gregory Jade 28

Osprey Tempest 20

REI Trail 40

Day Hike Checklist

Embarking on a day hike presents a great opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, either alone or accompanied by loved ones. Whether your preference is venturing deep into the heart of mountainous terrains or exploring the scenic trails closer to your home, the options are endless. Many state and national parks, as well as national forests, boast extensive trail networks for you to discover.

The contents of your hiking pack depend on several factors: the planned distance of your hike, the remoteness of your chosen location, and the anticipated weather conditions. Generally, the longer or more isolated the hike, or the more challenging the weather conditions, the more you should pack in terms of clothing, gear, food, and water.

At minimum, we like to bring these items on your next day hike: 

▢ Navigation tool (GPS, compass & map, etc)

____________________________________________

- Garmin fenix 7X Solar Multisport GPS Watch

- Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles

- Owala FreeSip Vacuum Water Bottle - 24 fl. oz

- Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .5 Medical Kit

Best Men’s Hiking Shoes of 2022

There's an endless amount of information out there across social media, forums, blogs, message boards, articles, retail sites, etc etc. Researching all of this can get expensive with your time and energy, and leaves room for making some purchasing mistakes. We want to save you some time, so here’s our list of best Men’s Hiking Shoes of 2022. 

Salomon Men's Speedcross 5 Gore-TEX Trail  

Merrell Men's Moab 2 GTX Hiking
Score: 4.5 / 5.0 

Weight: 30 ounces (heavier-side due to sole and waterproofing materials)

Weight: 15.87 ounces (mid to light weight)

Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-TEX® Hiking
Score: 4.4 / 5.0 

Weight: 29 ounces (heavier-side due to sole and waterproofing materials)

Sole Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, Rubber

Now the question you might be asking is, what’s the difference between hiking boots and hiking shoes, and do I need both? Short answer is that hiking shoes are generally lighter and low top cut, and if you’re just a recreational hiker you probably don’t need to buy two sets. For the majority of outdoor lovers with a just a light day pack, hiking or trail running shoes will work just fine. If you start getting into longer, multi-day backpacking trips, you may want to consider a pair of sturdy boots with some additional ankle support.

Best Men’s Lightweight Insulated Jackets

These days, you may most commonly see lightweight synthetic jackets worn casually around town for a little bit of warmth or weather protection on a cool fall or spring day. But aside from their frequent casual use, these jackets are a great multi-purpose midlayer for hiking, skiing, etc., and can be compacted down super tight to minimize space in your pack. The overall versatility, light weight, breathability, comfort, and reasonable price points make these jackets a must have for every outdoor lover’s apparel collection. 


+ Warmth, mobility, comfort, hooded, weather resistant - works well as a both a midlayer and standalone jacket

- Pricier than its competitors, breathability

✓ All around great jacket by one of the top brands in outdoor wear today. The LT Hoody can be worn for many uses and is going to stand up to the weather and everyday use better than some of the other jackets on the list

The North Face ThermoBall Eco Insulated Jacket (Best Value) 

+ Similar to the Patagonia Nano, light, comfortable, compact, versatile

- Durability is going to be an issue when worn actively as outerwear, but nylon is going to hold up a bit more than polyester

✓ For this price, this jacket is a solid option for the casual hiking and camping person. Thermoball won't compete well against the two scoring leaders in this pack, but it will keep you comfortable and can easily be worn with a hard shell to protect the material and keep you dry

+ Lightweight, comfortable, variety of colors available, compact for packing, extremely versatile for many activities

- Durability, standing up to any serious weather, no hood on this version (nano-puff hoody is an option)

✓ A staple of many active people 's outdoor wear. Great casual lightweight jacket for variety of uses, from hanging out at the campsite to being used as a (light) mid layer when coupled with a heavier jacket or hard-shell

+ Lightweight, breathable, versatile, decent price point, windproof

- No waist draw string, a bit bulkier than its peers

✓ Good, solid overall jacket built with high quality. You won't go wrong with this choice, but there are more better value options and overall higher quality products on the list

Black Diamond First Light Stretch Hoody + Four-season insulation, breathability, stretchability, durability

- The priciest of the bunch, a touch on the heavy side due to durability, warmth and weather resistance

✓ This jacket is probably our second favorite on the list, and customers love it. If you are getting out in the elements, the durability of this jacket might be worth the price point. If you're a casual hiker/camper, there are some more affordable choices in our list

Best All-Mountain Skis of 2023

An all-mountain ski is a versatile ski that is designed to perform well in a variety of conditions and terrain, including groomed runs, powder, moguls, and variable snow. All-mountain skis typically have a medium waist width, which allows them to handle both hard-packed snow and softer snow. They also often feature some degree of rocker in the tip and tail, which can help with turn initiation and make the ski more versatile in softer snow. All-mountain skis tend to be a good choice for intermediate to advanced skiers who want a ski that can handle a variety of conditions and terrain.

The Nordica Enforcer 94 is a popular all-mountain ski that is designed for intermediate to advanced skiers.

Construction: The Enforcer 94 features a wood core sandwiched between two sheets of metal. This construction gives the ski a damp, stable feel at high speeds and in variable conditions. The ski also has a slight rocker in the tip and tail, which helps with turn initiation and makes it more versatile in softer snow.

Performance: The Enforcer 94 is a versatile ski that performs well in a variety of conditions. On groomers, it holds a solid edge and is stable at high speeds. In softer snow, the slight rocker in the tip and tail allows for easy turn initiation and the ski floats well. The ski also has a relatively short turn radius, which makes it maneuverable in tight spaces.

Overall, the Nordica Enforcer 94 is a great all-mountain ski that can handle a variety of conditions. Its construction and design make it stable at high speeds and maneuverable in tight spaces, while the slight rocker in the tip and tail gives it versatility in softer snow. It's a great choice for intermediate to advanced skiers who want a ski that can do it all.

The Blizzard Rustler 9 is a popular all-mountain ski that is designed for intermediate to advanced skiers who want a versatile ski that can handle a variety of conditions.


Construction: The Rustler 9 features a wood core with two sheets of metal and carbon fiber in the tip and tail. This construction gives the ski a damp, stable feel at high speeds, while the carbon fiber in the tip and tail reduces weight and adds maneuverability. The ski also has a slight rocker in the tip and tail, which helps with turn initiation and makes it more versatile in softer conditions.

Performance: The Rustler 9 is a versatile ski that performs well in a variety of conditions. It has a 92mm waist width, which makes it nimble and responsive on groomed runs, while still being wide enough to handle softer snow. The ski has a relatively short turn radius, which makes it maneuverable in tight spaces, but it can also handle high speeds and aggressive turns. The slight rocker in the tip and tail helps with turn initiation and adds float in softer snow. Additionally, the ski has a playful feel that allows for a variety of skiing styles and techniques.

Overall, the Blizzard Rustler 9 is another solid all-mountain ski that can handle a variety of terrain. Similar to the Nordica 94 above, the construction and design make it stable at high speeds, maneuverable in tight spaces, and playful on the mountain. It's a great choice for intermediate to advanced skiers who want a versatile ski that can do it all.

The Salomon QST 106 is a wider all-mountain ski that is designed for intermediate to advanced skiers who want a versatile ski that can handle a variety of conditions, but still handle great in the fresh pow.

Construction: The QST 106 features a wood core with carbon and flax layers that add stability and power to the ski. The ski also has a C/FX 3 layer reinforcement, which combines carbon and flax to create a strong and lightweight ski. 

Performance: The QST 106 has a 106mm waist width, which makes it nimble and responsive on groomed runs, while still being wide enough to handle off-groomer powder. The QST also has a relatively short turn radius, which makes it maneuverable, but still able to handle high speeds and serious turns. The slight rocker in the tip and tail helps with turn initiation and adds float in softer snow. 

Overall, the Salomon QST 106 is a very capable all-mountain ski, but built primarily for the skier who lives in a place with a lot of powder (California, Utah, Colorado, etc) and wants to spend at least half their time in areas outside of the groomed runs.

Nordica Enforcer 94

Blizzard Rustler 9

Salomon QST 106

Best Dog Hiking Gear of 2022

Hitting the trails with the pup is one of our favorite activities, and judging by all the other hiker-dog duos we cross paths with out there, we take it you share the sentiment. Most of us have spent a reasonable amount of time shopping or researching for our next outdoor gear purchase to make our adventures that much more fun or comfortable, but maybe you haven’t thought about how you could make your pups trip (and perhaps yours along with it) that much more easy, fun, and enjoyable.

We’ve hiked all over the country, and into some others, with our special little furry pals. And we’ve learned quite a bit along the way. So, we decided to make this quick list of our favorite doggo hiking gear for you and your buddy’s next trip out on the trails. 

RUFFWEAR, Front Range No-Pull Dog Harness 

Why we like it: Some of our pups can get a little excited on the trails, and regular collars can put some significant strain on the beck. This harness is great for hiking as it offers reflective design, soft interior padding, and no pull leash clips. 

Why we like it: We love this leash due to its versatility in adjusting between hand-held and waist worn. Meaning, this can easily be your everyday leash, but also a hiking leash that allows you to keep your hands free on the trail for taking pictures, holding trekking poles, scrambling up rocks, or just grabbing something from your bag. In addition, the bungee design makes the hike much more enjoyable as your pup navigates the terrain and chases new smells. 

RUFFWEAR, Quencher Cinch Top, Waterproof, Collapsible, Closeable Dog Bowl 

Why we like it: A good collapsible bowl to give your dog some much needed food or water is a must-have for any hiking trip. We can’t tell you how many times we’ve been on the trail without a bowl, and end up trying to pour water from a bottle into our pup’s mouth, only to waste half our water in the process. This bowl is great because it also tightens up at the top if you want to store some food or treats in your bag as well. 

RUFFWEAR, Pack Out Bag, Pick-up Bag Holder and Dispenser for Dog Walking 

Why we like it: This thing is rad. If you’ve been on more than one hike with your pup, you’ve probably experienced a time when your dog decides to go #2 about 5 minutes into the hike and you’re stuck figuring out what to do with the waste bag. Well, rather than carrying it the entire trail, or worse, putting into your backpack, this waterproof carrying bag clips to a belt or outside of a backpack to minimize odors and get you back to focusing on enjoying nature. An added bonus is that it also stores and dispenses pick-up bags. 

Why we like it: You probably already have a water bottle, but we wanted to include one of our favorites in the list anyway. This Hydro Flask is great because it has a wide mouth straw for yourself, but you’re still able to easily twist off the top to fill up your doggo’s water bowl. These come in a variety of sizes up to 40 ounces, which should be plenty of water to cover you and the pup for a standard day hike. 

While not as critical for an everyday hike, we wanted to include some other solid gear for you and your pup’s hiking excursions. No one knows your pup better than you, so some of these items might be more up you and your furry friend’s alley than others. 

RUFFWEAR, Grip Trex Dog Boots, Outdoor Booties with Rubber Soles for Hiking and Running

RUFFWEAR, Powder Hound Insulated, Water Resistant Cold Weather Jacket for Dogs

Apple Airtag + Pup Culture Airtag Dog Collar Holder

BSEEN LED Dog Collar, USB Rechargeable, Glowing Pet Dog Collar for Night Safety

BSEEN LED Dog Collar, USB Rechargeable, Glowing Pet Dog Collar for Night Safety

pick-up bags

RUFFWEAR, Grip Trex Dog Boots, Outdoor Booties with Rubber Soles for Hiking and Running

RUFFWEAR, Powder Hound Insulated, Water Resistant Cold Weather Jacket for Dogs

Apple Airtag

Pup Culture Airtag Dog Collar Holder

Hi everyone, my name is Jackson and I'm a 7 year old fox red english lab based out of San Francisco and Lake Tahoe. My page is dedicated to helping pup owners find the best dog-friendly places across the world. 

Best Ski Gloves of 2023

The Hestra 5-Finger Army Leather Heli Ski Glove  is one of the most popular ski gloves offered by Hestra, a Swedish brand that has been in the glove-making business for decades. Here's a quick review on my favorite set of ski gloves.

1. Material and Construction:
The glove is constructed using a mix of Hestra's proprietary Triton three-layer fabric on the backhand and durable army goat leather on the palm. This combination ensures the glove is both water-resistant and breathable, with the leather providing a good grip and durability.

2. Insulation:
The glove features a removable Bemberg/polyester lining that provides warmth. This liner can be taken out, which is useful for drying the gloves faster or adjusting the warmth level depending on the conditions.

3. Fit and Comfort:
Hestra's size guide is quite accurate, and users have reported that the gloves have a comfortable fit, with pre-curved fingers that help in gripping ski poles and other gear. The long cuff design and drawstring help keep out snow and cold air, ensuring warmth even in deep powder conditions.

4. Durability:
One of the standout features of these gloves is their durability. The army goat leather, when regularly treated with leather balm, can withstand many seasons of rigorous use.

5. Dexterity:
Given their insulation and thickness, these gloves offer a decent amount of dexterity, which is essential for tasks like adjusting gear, using zippers, etc.

6. Additional Features:
The gloves come with a carabiner, allowing them to be clipped together to prevent loss. They also feature a snow lock and adjustable straps for a more secure fit.

Price: The gloves are on the pricier side, but I like to believe the durability and performance justify the cost.

Maintenance: The leather requires periodic treatment with leather balm to maintain its water-resistance and overall performance.

Conclusion:
The Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski Glove is a top-performing glove designed for serious skiers and snowboarders who are out in various conditions. Their build quality, warmth, and durability make them a favorite among many winter sports enthusiasts. With proper care, they can last for several seasons, making the initial investment worthwhile.

Hey everyone - I'm Andrew and I'm the Founder & CEO of Aventura. I started Aventura to make it easier for people to find their next trip, travel or adventure. We're off to the races, building the best place to discover, research, explore and share travel and recreation. Thank you again for coming and I hope you find some time to explore the site and contribute to the fastest-growing community of travelers. Feel free to shoot me a note with feedback or product ideas, that's how we get better. – andrew@getaventura.com

Top 3 Mountain Bikes of 2023

The Ibis Ripmo V2 XT is a highly respected trail/enduro mountain bike in the MTB community. Let's break down its features, performance, and general perception:

Geometry: The Ripmo V2 features modern mountain bike geometry, with a slack head angle for stability on descents, a steep seat tube angle for efficient pedaling, and longer reach for a roomier cockpit. This makes it well-suited for both climbing and descending.

Suspension: It utilizes the dw-link suspension design, which is known for a combination of efficient pedaling and good small bump compliance. The V2 has 147mm of rear travel paired with a 160mm fork up front.

Carbon & Alloy Options: The Ripmo V2 is available in both carbon fiber and aluminum frame options, giving riders a choice based on their budget and material preference.

The XT build means that most of the bike's components, particularly the drivetrain and brakes, are from Shimano's XT lineup. Shimano XT is known for its reliability, performance, and being a mid-to-high-end groupset that offers much of the performance of the top-tier XTR line but at a more affordable price point.

Climbing: Thanks to its efficient suspension design and geometry, the Ripmo V2 climbs effectively. The steep seat tube angle puts the rider in a good position for both steep and prolonged ascents.

Descending: With its slack head angle and progressive suspension, the Ripmo V2 offers confident descending capabilities. It's able to handle rough trails, jumps, and drops while maintaining good maneuverability.

The Ripmo V2 is often lauded for its versatility. It's capable enough for aggressive trail riding and enduro racing, yet it doesn't feel too cumbersome or heavy for regular trail rides.

The bike offers good tire clearance, allowing riders to use wider tires for better traction and stability. There's also internal cable routing, which keeps the bike looking clean and protects the cables.

Most riders and reviewers have positive feedback about the Ripmo V2, particularly about its balanced feel on both climbs and descents. Some might find it a bit overkill for less technical trails or for regions without a lot of elevation change, but for those in mountainous areas or who frequent bike parks, it's a great choice.

Conclusion
The Ibis Ripmo V2 XT strikes a balance between uphill efficiency and downhill capability, making it a go-to choice for riders who want a do-it-all mountain bike. It offers a compelling blend of modern geometry, reliable componentry, and top-notch suspension design. Potential buyers should consider their local terrain and riding style to ensure it aligns with the Ripmo's strengths.

The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX AXS you're referring to seems to be a blend of different specifications or might be from a new release post-2021. However, I can provide a review based on the known elements you mentioned, namely the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 and SRAM's GX AXS groupset:

Geometry: The Fuel EX series by Trek is designed as a versatile trail bike. It features a geometry that strikes a balance between aggressive descents and efficient climbing.

OCLV Carbon: The 9.8 versions typically use Trek's OCLV Mountain Carbon for the frame, which offers a good strength-to-weight ratio.

Suspension: The Fuel EX employs the ABP (Active Braking Pivot) and Full Floater suspension designs, which work together to provide smooth suspension action and keep the rear wheel tracking the ground well, even during braking.

Electronic Shifting: The GX AXS is SRAM's more budget-friendly approach to electronic shifting. The main advantage of electronic shifting is the precision and consistent shifting experience, regardless of conditions.

No Cables: The wireless design means there's no cable stretch or contamination to worry about. This can lead to longer periods of perfect shifting and less maintenance.

Battery Life: The battery life on the GX AXS is impressive, and the system will typically alert you well in advance if the battery is running low.

Climbing: The Fuel EX series, with its efficient suspension system and geometry, offers a competent climbing experience. The steeper seat tube angle aids in getting power down on steep sections.

Descending: Trek's Fuel EX line is known for its playful and confident descending characteristics. It can handle rougher trails but remains nimble for twisty and flowy sections.

Storage: Some versions of the Fuel EX have come with internal frame storage, allowing riders to stow away tools, a tube, or snacks.

Knock Block: This is Trek's solution to prevent the handlebars from spinning around and damaging the frame during a crash. Some riders love it for the protection, while others feel it limits the bike's turning radius a bit.

While the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 is generally lauded for its versatility and performance, the integration of the GX AXS would likely push its appeal even further. Electronic shifting is becoming more popular due to its precision, reliability, and ease of use.

Conclusion
The Trek Fuel EX 9.8, based on past versions, is a top-tier trail bike that balances climbing efficiency with downhill prowess. Adding the SRAM GX AXS wireless electronic groupset enhances the bike's usability and rider experience. As with all bikes, potential buyers should test ride if possible and ensure that the specific features and characteristics align with their riding style and local terrain.

The Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Comp is part of Specialized's Stumpjumper lineup, known for its trail riding capabilities. The "EVO" denotes a more aggressive design suited for riders seeking a bike that leans more toward the enduro spectrum while retaining some of the playful characteristics of a trail bike. Here's a general review based on information up to September 2021:

Progressive Geometry: The EVO version comes with more aggressive geometry compared to the standard Stumpjumper. This includes a slacker head angle, longer reach, and often a lower bottom bracket. These adjustments aim to provide increased stability at high speeds and on steep descents.

Adjustable Geometry: Many Stumpjumper EVO models feature a flip chip, allowing riders to adjust the geometry slightly. This means you can tweak the bike's handling to better match your riding style or the terrain you're tackling.

Material: The "Comp" typically indicates an aluminum frame, which offers a more budget-friendly entry point compared to the carbon versions. It's a bit heavier but still offers excellent performance.

F.O.R.K. Design: Specialized employs a unique suspension design for the Stumpjumper EVO, with the aim of achieving a balanced feel during both climbing and descending. The bike's suspension is designed to be supple at the beginning of the stroke, supportive in the mid-stroke, and progressive toward the end.

Travel: Depending on the exact model year, the Stumpjumper EVO usually has around 140-160mm of rear travel, paired with a similar or slightly greater amount up front.

Climbing: While the EVO is more descent-oriented, it's no slouch on climbs. The efficient suspension design and the bike's geometry ensure it remains manageable on uphill sections, especially considering its aggressive leanings.

Descending: This is where the EVO shines. The aggressive geometry and capable suspension allow it to handle technical descents, drops, and rock gardens with confidence.

The "Comp" tier usually comes equipped with mid-range components. While they might not be the lightest or most premium options, they are generally reliable and perform well for their price point.

The Stumpjumper EVO Comp is often praised for its versatility. While it leans toward aggressive trail and enduro riding, it's not so specialized (pun intended) that it feels out of place on more mellow trails. Some riders might find it overbuilt for flatter or less technical regions, but for mountainous areas or those who favor descents, it's an excellent option.

Conclusion
The Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Comp offers a blend of aggressive geometry and performance-oriented features at a more accessible price point, thanks to its aluminum construction. It's well-suited for riders looking for a bike that can handle both challenging descents and general trail riding. As always, potential buyers should consider a test ride and think about how the bike aligns with their local terrain and riding style.

Welcome to my profile, I'm Brandon and I'm from Denver, Colorado. I love to get outdoors and experience new things in nature. 

Wawona 6 Tent

The North Face is renowned for its innovative outdoor equipment, and the Wawona 6-person tent is no exc eption. It's designed for campers seeking space, durability, and ease of use. Here's our detailed review of this impressive camping structure:

The Wawona 6 boasts a single-wall design, which is relatively rare for tents of this size. This design aids in quick setups, cutting down the time it typically takes to erect double-wall tents. Moreover, its high canopy structure ensures that even taller campers can comfortably stand and move around inside.

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