Get your skis on
Go from tramper to ski tourer with this kit. Head Kore 99 $1499 ($1799 with bindings) An all-around ski for backcountry or groomed slopes. Floats in deep powder and…
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Gear Guides
Ski touring
Walking poles
2019 guide to walking poles
Do your knees a favour and get a pair of walking poles – they’ll help you walk further, faster and for longer. How poles help Over a day’s tramping,…
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Personal locator beacons
2019 guide to personal locator beacons
For those who regularly head into the backcountry, a personal locator beacon (PLB) is an essential item. Where to buy Most outdoors stores will sell PLBs, and a few…
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Navigation aids
Navigation aids
Mapping software, compasses and a charging device to ensure you stay on track Featured image: Hand-crank USB Charger $19.50 Recharge your devices with a hand emergency charger. Can recharge…
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Tents View all
2019’s best winter tents
A winter tent is your ticket to the backcountry, no matter the temperature or conditions. Fly A heavy ripstop fabric is used to handle strong winds and snow-loading. A…
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Packs
2019’s best multi-day packs
Stability and comfort are two key requirements for a pack designed to carry heavy loads for several days. CapacityUsually between 50 and 80-litres, multi-day packs will have a single or...
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Footwear and socks View all
2019’s best hiking shoes
A good hiking shoe provides a balance between weight and stability – allowing you to move faster and be more agile, while also ensuring firm grip and support. MidsoleMost…
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Rainwear
2019’s best wet weather jackets
No tramp, whatever its duration, should be made without a raincoat. But whether you opt for the ultra-packable or ultra-durable depends on the kind of trips you do. Here’s…
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Hiking clothes
The best fleeces and softshells for 2019
Fleece jackets The North Face Denali 2 $280 Recycled fleece, relaxed fit, reinforced shoulders, chest and forearms, covered, secure-zip chest and hand pockets, stretch fabric cuffs, hem cinch-cord, media…
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Knives and multi-tools
2019’s best knives and multi-tools
Modern knives are light, razor sharp and often come with multiple tools to help you out of a pickle. Handle A handle should provide a sure and comfortable grip…
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Sleeping bags and mats View all
2019’s best sleeping mats
Here’s how to find a mattress that is comfortable, light and within your budget. Fills There’s a number of fills – high-density open-cell foam, down, synthetic and plain air…
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Insulated jackets
2019’s guide to insulated jackets
There’s nothing better than sinking your chin into a cosy insulated jacket while a frigid southerly blows. Here’s what you need to know before parting with your money. Collars…
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Stoves and cookware
2019 guide to backcountry stoves
Does anything taste as good as a meal cooked in a backcountry hut? To experience such pleasure, you need a portable stove. Here are 2019’s best options. Burner size…
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Water filters and purifiers
2019 guide to water filters and purifiers
Even in ‘pristine’ New Zealand, microscopic bacteria and viruses can be lurking in streams and hut water tanks. A water filter or purifier offers on-the-go peace of mind no…
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Gaiters
2019’s best gaiters
Gaiters protect your boots and legs from abrasion and spikey speargrass. They also prevent trail debris from entering your boot and rubbing your feet up the wrong way. Closure…
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Headlamps
2019’s guide to headlamps
Headlamps are a multi-purpose tool – use them while cooking in a hut, to light the trail ahead or asa safety device to alert rescuers to your whereabouts. Don’t…
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