New this week

Knowing your pack straps will make comfort a cinch

Tarp camping lightens load by a pound or two

Taking good nature photographs requires basic skills, savvy eye and the right gear

Packing safely for a spring hike in the high country

Plenty to consider before picking a spot to pitch your tent

These are not just backcountry meals, they're taste bud adventures

Give your tent a longer life for $5

Wrap yourself in comfort with proper jacket

No need for winter campers to stay in the dark

Hot and quick, these one-pot dinners are a sure-fire way to ward off the cold

Take steps to prevent agony of the feet

A cared-for sleeping bag won't let you down

No camera? It sends a shutter down one's spine

Be selective when you get a multipurpose tool

A guide to gifts that will please the most hard-to-satisfy outdoors enthusiast

You have a stake in keeping your tent in good repair

Here's how to choose the right long johns

Save your hide: Break in new boots before you hike

When jacket no longer keeps rain out

Good waterproof clothing allows avid hikers to say 'Bring on the rainy season'

Gear repair kits are cheap, easy to assemble, and can save one's hide

Stakes are high when choosing a three-season tent

Hiking poles help balance and relieve pressure on leg joints

Suiting up in synthetics is the way to go on hiking trips

Packing a sturdy water tote can help fend off dehydration

Choosing the right equipment means camp meals don't depend on pot luck

A good night's zzzzs can rest on sleeping-pad decision

Packing with a purpose may sidestep trail troubles

Choosing the right sleeping bag can guarantee sweet dreams

Travel writers are prepared when they hit the road

The proper hiking socks help keep your feet warm, dry and blister-free

Choosing the proper boots is the first step toward happy hiking

The right bike gear saves an outing from becoming a disaster

Care for your stove and it will care for you

The first step before hitting the trails: Be properly equipped

Snow-tech togs
Outdoor apparel's fashion statement is about function

Rain Wear
When the going gets wet, the miserable get waterproofed

Serious cycling
How to take full advantage of two wheels

REI
Venerable outdoors retailer opens indoor mall store

Tips and essential equipment for steelhead anglers

Travel essentials
Indispensable gift ideas that people will really use

Slope wear
Dynamic colors, retro styling recharge winter outerwear

Birkenstocks
Those comfortable-as-can-be shoes celebrate 30 years in the U.S. market

Carving new tracks
Design innovations bring skiing and snowboarding closer together

Custom fishing rods
An expert craftsman offers advice for do-it-yourselfers

Lightweight hiking
One couple shares tips on how to lighten that backpack

Cycling safely
Experts lend advice on the right way to ride

Gimme Shelter
It's in the bag -- and in the tent

Binoculars
Know the terms when buying binoculars

Mountain traverse safety
With preparation and proper equipment, walk the wilds safely

Rain gear
NW stores offer outpouring of drizzle protection

Photo bags
Backpacks give camera bugs quick access to equipment

Outdoor photo gear
Basic equipment you need to take good outdoor photographs

Bicycle helmets
Right bicycle helmet might save your life

Lights to carry
An illuminating look at how to pack some candlepower

Sea kayaking
A list of essential equipment -- and how much it costs