Garrett Vance is the senior outdoor gear and tech editor at Nations Trails. Based in Bellingham, Washington, between the North Cascades and the coast, he covers hiking footwear, backpacks, trekking poles, rain shells and layers, cycling and snow sports gear, and outdoor electronics such as GPS watches and headlamps. He compares products on fit, weight, materials, and battery life so readers can pick gear that suits their own trips.
Airline carry-on rules and clamshell openings decide how a travel pack actually feels on a trip. These picks are compared on packed…
A jacket that soaks through by the second lift ride ends the day early. These picks are compared on insulation, hood design,…
Trail groups lose contact fast when a cheap radio drops a channel. See how 5 two-way radios compare on range, battery life,…
A gritty chain wears out cassettes and chainrings faster than almost anything else. These picks are compared on how well they cut…
A thru axle fork mount only works if the axle size and bolt pattern match your setup. These picks are compared on…
A cover that flaps loose in a storm can leave your drivetrain wet by morning. These picks are compared on fabric weight,…
Wet gravel and washboard roads expose a fork bag with a weak mount fast. These picks are compared on roll-top closure, mounting…
Riding an e-bike at speed changes what you need from a helmet. These picks are compared on rear visibility, venting, and fit…
A watch that quits at mile 40 or a computer you cannot read in glare both end a ride early. These picks…
Numb hands on a long ride usually trace back to thin bar tape. See how 6 gel handlebar tapes compare on padding…
