Essential Outdoor Gear: July 2026 Editor Picks

With summer winding down, outdoor enthusiasts are keenly aware of the fleeting opportunities for adventure. This sentiment, akin to a seasonal FOMO, drives many to meticulously plan additional trips before the cooler weather sets in. The editorial team at Backpacker magazine has been reflecting on their summer experiences, highlighting essential gear that significantly improved their journeys during July 2026, whether it was on family camping trips along the Continental Divide, exploring Washington's San Juan Islands, or local hikes on Colorado's Western Slope.

Gear Spotlight: Editors' Top Picks for July 2026

In July 2026, the editorial team of Backpacker magazine identified several key pieces of equipment that proved indispensable for their outdoor pursuits. Adam Roy, the Editor-in-Chief, discovered the versatility of the BOGS Boga Slip-Ons. Unlike traditional camp shoes, these foam clogs, despite their 21-ounce weight, feature rubberized outsoles that offer superior grip on diverse terrains. Roy utilized them for a two-mile trek on the Colorado Trail during a family campout near Kenosha Pass, appreciating their reliable traction on rocks and roots. Their waterproof nature and comfortable removable insoles also made them ideal for day paddles and multi-day stand-up paddleboarding trips, effectively navigating rocky shorelines and minimizing foot fatigue.

Senior Editor Zoe Gates championed the Exped Ultra 1R Duo, an ultralight inflatable double sleeping pad. Weighing merely 1 pound 10 ounces, this innovative pad allows couples to share a cozy sleeping space without the discomfort of a gap between two single pads. Its compact size, comparable to a single insulated winter pad, makes it suitable for backpacking. The pad's 41.3-inch shoulder width and tapered foot section optimize space within a two-person tent, even accommodating a pet. With a 3-inch thickness and elevated edge baffles, it ensures a peaceful night's sleep, even for restless sleepers. Though its 1.8 R-value limits it to warm-weather use, it represents a significant advancement for comfortable couple camping.

Associate Editor Will Brendza's top choice was the Pingora Outro 40 Pack. While not ultra-light at 3.8 pounds, this rolltop backpack offers an impressive blend of durability and thoughtful design. Its expandable volume, effectively closer to 50 liters, provides ample space, and a unique 50/50 internal divider keeps gear organized, separating trail essentials from camp supplies. A convenient back panel zipper allows quick access to items without needing to remove the pack. The pack also features generously sized shoulder pockets and stretchy hip belt pockets, perfect for a phone. Optional add-ons such as a brain compartment, rain cover, and chest sling day bag further enhance its functionality, making it a highly customizable and efficient choice for various adventures.

These selections underscore a broader trend in outdoor gear: a focus on enhanced functionality, comfort, and versatility. The editors' experiences highlight how innovative design can significantly improve the quality of outdoor adventures, making them more accessible and enjoyable for a wider range of activities and users. From multi-purpose footwear to specialized sleeping systems and intelligent packing solutions, these products demonstrate the continuous evolution of outdoor equipment to meet the diverse needs of modern explorers. This thoughtful approach to gear selection ultimately enables adventurers to savor every moment of the fleeting summer season, preparing them for even more trips before the cold weather truly sets in.