Backpacker Editors' Favorite Outdoor Gear of June 2026

Elevate Your Outdoor Experience: Editor-Approved Gear for Summer Adventures

The Unsung Heroes: How Small Gear Makes a Big Impact on the Trail

Often, it's the seemingly minor items that contribute the most to a successful outdoor journey. As Backpacker's editors embarked on their June escapades, they discovered that two of their top three gear picks were small enough to comfortably fit in the palm of a hand. This emphasizes the profound effect that meticulously chosen, compact equipment can have on the quality and enjoyment of time spent outdoors.

June's Grand Adventures: From Mountain Peaks to Misty Shores

The past month saw our team tackling diverse landscapes and conditions. We navigated the rugged terrain of Colorado's Western Slope, sought refuge during an unexpected hailstorm, and marveled at whales from our camp on Washington state's atmospheric beaches. These varied experiences underscore the importance of reliable gear that can adapt to any challenge summer throws our way.

Freaks of Nature Peak Performance Sun Stick SPF50: Superior Sun Protection Without the Fuss

Adam Roy, our Editor-in-Chief, has long sought a high-performance sunscreen that doesn't leave an unsightly white film or chalky residue. He found his match in the Freaks of Nature Peak Performance Sun Stick. Unlike many zinc-based alternatives, this plant-derived formula glides on smoothly and feels remarkably light on the skin. Its convenient size makes it ideal for quick application to the face, neck, and hands, fitting effortlessly into a hipbelt pocket. Boasting 80 minutes of water resistance, this reef-safe, vegan sunscreen is packaged in 100% recycled plastic, making it an eco-conscious choice for sun-drenched summer days.

Nocs Provisions Zero Tube 10x25 Monocular: Sharpening Your View of the Wild

As our Associate Editor, Will Brendza, attests, discerning distant details can become increasingly challenging with age. His solution? The Nocs Provisions Zero Tube Monocular. This robust and portable device offers 10x magnification, providing exceptional clarity to reveal details previously missed, whether it's a distant moose or a geological marvel. With its waterproof rating of up to 1 meter for 30 minutes and impact resistance, this monocular is built for the rigors of the backcountry. Brendza initially acquired it for backcountry skiing, but it has proven invaluable for backpacking, becoming a constant companion within his backpack's shoulder strap. Its ability to enhance his vision and add a touch of maritime flair to his observations has significantly enriched his outdoor experiences.

Freelight Polartech Alpha Insulated Hood Jacket: The Ultimate Versatile Layer

Zoe Gates, our Senior Editor, has redefined her understanding of wind jackets with the Freelight Polartech Alpha Insulated Hood Jacket. Formerly reserved for extreme conditions, this jacket has become a staple for its unexpected warmth and breathability. Its windproof outer shell, combined with Alpha Direct insulation, effectively traps heat while allowing for excellent airflow. During a camping trip to Orcas Island, she found it sufficient to ward off the evening chill, even as temperatures dipped into the low 50s. Similarly, it proved its worth in Olympic National Park's unpredictable June weather, providing consistent comfort through mist, sun, and strong winds. The design intelligently omits insulation under the arms, ensuring breathability where it's needed most. Her only minor critique is the front stretch-mesh drop pocket, which she feels would be more practical as conventional hand pockets.