What We’re Currently Testing
New and Updated Gear for spring 2023
March 6, 2023
New Osprey Thru Hiking Backpacks – Exos/Eja Pro 55
Just in time for thru hiking season, Osprey has released a new addition to the Exos and Eja backpack line – The Exos (men's) and Eja (women's) Pro 55. They've managed to shave nearly a pound off the previous versions, but still maintain an impressive list of features:
55 liter capacity (including removable top lid)
Tensioned mesh back panel increases air circulation
Ventilated mesh yoke
EVA foam padded hip belt (one side with a zippered pocket, one side with an elastisized pocket)
Hydration sleeve
2 ice axe loops
Multiple lash points
Deep mesh side pockets, both with dual access
Compression straps
10 to 30 pounds load range
PFAS-free DWR coating
2 sizes
The men's pack weighs 2.1 - 2.2 pounds, and the women's pack weighs 2.0 - 2.1 pounds, depending on the size.
The dual-access side pockets are something clever I've never seen before, and I'm intrigued. I'm looking forward to testing this pack! In the meantime, if you're looking for a lightweight, comfortable backpack, the new Exos/Eja Pro 55 might be what you're looking for. Read more about our top choices for lightweight backpacks.
Osprey Exos Pro 55 (Men’s)
Osprey Eja Pro 55 (Women’s)
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLITE NXT and XTherm NXT Sleeping Pads
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT (bottom left) and XTherm NXT (right) sleeping pads.
Therm-a-Rest released new and improved versions of two of our favorite sleeping pads – the NeoAir XLite NXT and XTherm NXT. What's new?
For the NeoAir XLite NXT:
83% reduction in noise
Increased the R-value from 4.2 to 4.5
Increased the thickness from 2.5" to 3", which gives you more lee-way to fine-tune the firmness of your pad
No change in weight
A Max version that's rectangular rather than mummy-shaped for people who want more room
For the XTherm NXT:
Reduced the weight by 1.5 ounces to 15.5 ounces (size regular)
Increased the R-value from 6.9 to 7.3
Increased the thickness from 2.5" to 3"
A Max version that's rectangular rather than mummy-shaped for people who want more room
We're currently testing both of these pads and will provide full reviews soon. In the meantime, read more about our favorite backpacking sleeping pads.
NeoAir XLite NXT
XTherm NXT
Voormi Trail Socks
I know, I know, socks aren’t very exciting. But — socks are one of my favorite things. After thousands of miles of hiking with horrendous blisters and foot pain, I’m pretty passionate about keeping my feet strong and blister-free on a thru hike.
Hiking socks, running socks, gym socks, ski socks – I have a favorite for every activity and season. I picked up a pair of the Voormi Trail socks when I visited their store in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, and my testing notes are nothing but positive so far. I'll be posting a full review soon, but in the meantime here's the complete write-up of my favorite hiking socks.