testing for Arc'teryx Alpha Jacket review

Apparel Guides: Tops

From jackets and shirts, to hoodies and mid-layers, this is your one-stop-shop for recommended ultralight backpacking tops.

LEVE Outdoor Co Alpha Direct Hoodie 90

Best Alpha Direct Hoodie 2024

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A Polartec Alpha Direct hoodie is the best way for ultralight backpackers to save weight on insulation without sacrificing warmth.
rei co-op swiftland half-zip running pullover review

Best Lightweight Fleece Jacket Hiking & Backpacking 2024

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This guide will identify the best lightweight fleece jacket for you. The average fleece on this list is warm and weighs just 7 oz.
testing the best lightweight rain jacket for hiking and backpacking

Best Lightweight Rain Jacket For Hiking Ultralight 2024

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Find the best lightweight jacket & pants for your needs, your travel, and your budget. No BS! All these lightweight rain jackets have all earned their spot on this list by performing far better than the competition.
testing lightweight down jackets and pants in patagonia

Best Lightweight Down Jacket for Backpacking 2024

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The very best ultralight and lightweight down jackets significantly outperform a standard issue puffy sweater, and upgrading will save weight in your pack and keep you warmer in the backcountry.
testing windbreaker jackets at mount rainier national park

Best Windbreaker Jacket Ultralight & Lightweight 2024

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This guide will help you find the best lightweight windbreaker jacket for your hiking, climbing, & running. All ultralight under 5 oz.
wearing an alpaca hoodie

Best Alpaca Hoodie For Hiking, Sun, Travel 2024

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Each alpaca hoodie in this guide is adventure-proven. We cover sun hoodies and fleece alternatives with pros, cons, fabric blends, and more.
testing the best sun shirts to use as hiking shirts in a national park

Best Sun Shirt for Hiking 2024

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The best hiking shirts are all sun shirts! This guide reviews & recommends the best sun hoody, t-shirt, button up, and merino base layer.
Testing the best lightweight down parka

Best Lightweight Down Parka For Winter Backpacking 2024

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Enjoy maximum warmth-to-weight ratio when you choose a lightweight down parka for backpacking in winter. These parkas are ultralight and packable!
a merino wool hoodie base layer in purple by smartwool

Best Merino Wool Hoodie Base Layers For Hiking 2024

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This is a data-based guide to choosing a merino wool hoodie base layer for hiking. We cover sun hoodies, all-season, and cold weather.
Testing the best ultralight puffy jacket in the desert

Best Ultralight Puffy Jacket 2024 Packable & Lightweight

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This round-up of ultralight puffy jackets is the lightest on the internet, averaging just 10.2 oz per garment, and conservatively 30% less than competing buyer's guides. Perfect for hiking and backpacking.