Field-Tested Wisdom from the OGE Crew.
Think of this section as an extension of our shop floor—a place where you can get honest answers from experienced folks who genuinely love what they do.
The Outdoor Gear Exchange Knowledge section is unique because it is 100% staff-written. Our guides on skiing, snowboarding, climbing, hiking, biking, and paddling come directly from our team of experts who are out there doing these activities every chance they get. They’ve made the mistakes, mastered the skills, and field-tested the gear so you don't have to guess.
We’re sharing this first-hand expertise to help you make informed decisions, whether you're choosing your first sleeping pad or dialing in your AT bindings. We want to bridge the gap between knowing what gear you need and understanding why you need it.
Step into our virtual schoolhouse, tap into our collective experience, and build the confidence for your next great adventure.
Hiking & Camping
- What Size Pack Do I Need?
- How to Choose a Pack
- How to Choose a Camp Stove
- How to Choose the Right Tent
- The Ten Essentials
- How to Choose a Sleeping Pad
- How to Treat Your Water
- Thru-Hiking Essentials: Striking the Balance
- How to Make Coffee Outside
- How to Plan for a Thru-Hike
- How to Choose a Sleeping Bag
- How to Choose Trekking Poles
- How to Poop in the Woods
- How to Clean Your Sleeping Bag
- How to Hike With Your Dog
- How to Size a Pack
- Day Hiking Essentials
Snowsports
- How to Store your Skis for the Summer
- How to Choose Cross-Country Skiing Gear
- How to Size Ski Boots
- Mondopoint: What is it, and how is it measured?
- How to Choose Ski or Snowboard Pants
- Backcountry Skiing Essentials
- Ski Shape and Profile
- How to Choose Backcountry Skis
- How To Choose AT Bindings
- How to Get the Most Out of Your Resort Day
- How to Choose Splitboard Boots
- How to Choose Splitboard Bindings
- How to Choose AT Boots
- How to Choose a Ski or Snowboard Jacket
- How to Choose A Splitboard
- Nordic Ski Binding Compatibility Guide
- What is a DIN Setting?
- How to Choose Climbing Skins
- How to Choose Snowshoes
- Ski Helmet Guide
- Ski Construction
Climbing
- Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
- Opens in a new window.