Outdoor Gear Lab‘s Editor‘s Choice Awards: 2024‘s Best in Backpacking, Camping, and Climbing197

The Outdoor Gear Lab team has spent countless hours this year testing and reviewing the latest and greatest in outdoor gear. We've pushed products to their limits in diverse environments, from the scorching deserts of Arizona to the icy peaks of the Rockies. Our rigorous testing process involves multiple testers with varying experience levels, ensuring a comprehensive and unbiased assessment. And now, we're proud to announce the winners of the Outdoor Gear Lab Editor's Choice Awards for 2024. These aren't just the best-performing products; they represent the pinnacle of innovation, durability, and user-friendliness in the outdoor world.

This year's awards span a broad range of categories, reflecting the diversity of outdoor pursuits. We've recognized exceptional performers in backpacking, camping, climbing, and related areas. The selection process was incredibly competitive, with many exceptional products vying for a spot in the winners' circle. Our editors ultimately chose the winners based on a holistic evaluation considering performance, value, durability, and overall user experience. Each product underwent a rigorous testing protocol designed to expose its strengths and weaknesses under realistic conditions.

Backpacking Category:

Editor's Choice for Best Backpacking Tent: The MSR Hubba Hubba NX. This lightweight, freestanding tent consistently impressed our testers with its exceptional weather resistance, spacious interior, and surprisingly easy setup. Its durable materials and clever design features make it a top choice for both weekend trips and extended backpacking adventures. The ventilation system effectively prevented condensation, even in humid conditions, while the lightweight design significantly reduced pack weight.

Editor's Choice for Best Backpacking Backpack: Osprey Atmos AG 65. Known for its superior comfort and load-carrying capabilities, the Atmos AG 65 excelled in our endurance tests. The Anti-Gravity suspension system effectively transferred weight to the hips, minimizing strain on the shoulders and back, even with heavy loads. The numerous organizational pockets and thoughtful design features made it a user-friendly choice for long-distance treks.

Editor's Choice for Best Backpacking Sleeping Bag: Western Mountaineering UltraLite. While a significant investment, the UltraLite justifies its price tag with its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio and luxurious comfort. The premium down fill ensured impressive insulation, while the lightweight construction minimized pack bulk. This bag is perfect for those who prioritize comfort and performance in cold weather conditions.

Camping Category:

Editor's Choice for Best Camp Stove: Jetboil Flash. The Jetboil Flash consistently impressed with its speed and efficiency. Boiling water for coffee or meals takes mere minutes, saving valuable time in the campsite. Its compact design and lightweight construction make it an ideal companion for car camping and backpacking trips alike. Its durability proved reliable even after prolonged use.

Editor's Choice for Best Camp Chair: Helinox Chair Zero. This lightweight, packable chair offers surprising comfort and stability. Its innovative design uses aluminum poles for a robust yet incredibly light frame. Perfect for both car camping and backpacking, the Chair Zero provides a welcome respite after a long day on the trail.

Editor's Choice for Best Camp Lantern: Black Diamond Cosmo 350. This versatile lantern offers adjustable brightness settings and multiple lighting modes, catering to various needs in the campsite. Its rechargeable battery provides ample runtime, and its compact design makes it easy to pack and carry. Its robust construction withstood several accidental drops during testing.

Climbing Category:

Editor's Choice for Best Climbing Helmet: Petzl Meteor. Offering a lightweight yet protective design, the Petzl Meteor proved exceptionally comfortable and secure during our rigorous testing. Its ventilation system kept our testers cool even during strenuous climbs, while its robust construction provided reliable protection against impacts.

Editor's Choice for Best Climbing Harness: Black Diamond Solution. This versatile harness excelled in both comfort and functionality. Its adjustable leg loops and comfortable waist belt ensured a secure and customized fit. The numerous gear loops provided ample space for carrying climbing equipment.

Editor's Choice for Best Climbing Rope: Mammut 9.8mm Infinity Dry. This rope balanced durability and lightweight performance, making it suitable for a variety of climbing styles. The dry treatment repelled water effectively, ensuring consistent performance even in wet conditions. It demonstrated excellent abrasion resistance throughout our extended testing period.

Honorable Mentions: While these products didn't clinch the top spot, they deserve recognition for their outstanding performance and value. We encourage you to explore these options as well. A full list with detailed reviews is available on our website.

Choosing the right gear is crucial for a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience. We hope this year's Outdoor Gear Lab Editor's Choice Awards will guide you in selecting the best equipment for your next adventure. Our comprehensive reviews provide detailed insights into the performance and features of each product, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences. Remember to always prioritize safety and choose equipment that aligns with your skill level and the conditions you'll be facing.

2025-03-07

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