Owen Mitchell

Owen Mitchell

Owen's outdoor pursuits range from bouldering to backpacking to backcountry skiing and everything in between.

Owen Mitchell has written 24 posts for Ten Pound Backpack.

Best Ice Axe of 2024

Owen Mitchell

Written by Owen Mitchell

Owen's outdoor pursuits range from bouldering to backpacking to backcountry skiing and everything in between.

Hey there adventurers! If you're thinking of conquering icy terrains or want to get that mountaineering badge, you've landed on the right page. We take our ice axes seriously here, after all, it's not just a tool, it's a lifeline when you're up there in the frosty wilderness. From top-notch balance to spike design, and shaft ergonomics to the good ol' dollars and cents, we've got you covered on...

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Best Mountaineering Backpack of 2024

Owen Mitchell

Written by Owen Mitchell

Owen's outdoor pursuits range from bouldering to backpacking to backcountry skiing and everything in between.

Whether you're setting out for a day trip to your favorite local crag, or preparing for a multi-day expedition in the remote wilderness, your backpack can be your most trusted companion. Among the dizzying array of options available, the Osprey Mutant 38 stands out as a firm favorite. Combining excellent carrying comfort with impressive load transfer, it sneaks ahead of the rest when it comes...

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Best Climbing Quickdraw of 2024

Owen Mitchell

Written by Owen Mitchell

Owen's outdoor pursuits range from bouldering to backpacking to backcountry skiing and everything in between.

If you're an adventurer always seeking to climb higher heights, then you know that having dependable gear is key. On that note, we would specifically like to focus on an indispensable piece of climbing equipment - the quickdraw. The right quickdraw can mean the difference between an epic climb and an epic fail. That's why we've taken the time to evaluate some of the best in the market, to help...

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Best Non-Locking Carabiner of 2024

Owen Mitchell

Written by Owen Mitchell

Owen's outdoor pursuits range from bouldering to backpacking to backcountry skiing and everything in between.

If you're an outdoor enthusiast, you know that having the right gear is essential. Among these, a top-quality, non-locking carabiner can be your best ally when facing treacherous paths or attempting risky climbs. We've done loads of testing to find out which non-locking carabiners really rise to the top, and we're here to offer a comprehensive guide to help you pick your new climbing mate.

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Best Climbing Shoes of 2024

Owen Mitchell

Written by Owen Mitchell

Owen's outdoor pursuits range from bouldering to backpacking to backcountry skiing and everything in between.

Unlock your climbing potential with the perfect pair of climbing shoes. The right hardware, from footwear to belay devices, is essential to your climbing success and safety on any vertical adventure.

Our top pick after extensive testing is the La Sportiva Solution Comp, pointing the way with their perfect blend of performance and comfort. The superior balance of fit and function make this shoe...

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Best Camping First Aid Kit of 2024

Owen Mitchell

Written by Owen Mitchell

Owen's outdoor pursuits range from bouldering to backpacking to backcountry skiing and everything in between.

Whether you're a seasoned outdoor adventurer or a newbie hitting the trails for the first time, a good camping first aid kit is a must-have. The right kit can mean the difference between a small hiccup on your journey and an early trip home. When we talk about 'the right kit', we mean something comprehensive, durable, lightweight and worthy of your hard-earned dollars. One such kit is, without...

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Best Hiking Water Bottle of 2024

Owen Mitchell

Written by Owen Mitchell

Owen's outdoor pursuits range from bouldering to backpacking to backcountry skiing and everything in between.

Whether you're hitting the trail for a multi-day hike or a quick day trip, staying hydrated is fundamental. The best hiking water bottle for you might depend on your specific needs. Some might prefer an ultra-light bottle that barely adds any weight to their backpack, while others might prioritize insulation to keep their beverage hot or cold for hours. Then of course, there's the crucial issue...

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Best Stuff Sack of 2024

Owen Mitchell

Written by Owen Mitchell

Owen's outdoor pursuits range from bouldering to backpacking to backcountry skiing and everything in between.

There are countless components that factor into the perfect camping or backpacking trip, and sure enough, the humble stuff sack stands as one of them. These unassuming bags might not appear as flashy as some hiking boots or a high-tech tent, but when it comes to organizing your gear, increasing your packing efficiency, and making sure everything stays dry and protected, nothing beats a quality...

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Best Backpacking Sleeping Pad of 2024

Owen Mitchell

Written by Owen Mitchell

Owen's outdoor pursuits range from bouldering to backpacking to backcountry skiing and everything in between.

Venturing out into the great outdoors often means leaving the comfort of your home bed behind. But with the right gear, like a top-notch backpacking sleeping pad, you can bring a piece of that comfort with you. If you've ever spent a night in the wilderness tossing and turning, you know exactly how important it is to find a sleeping pad that can make you feel almost like you're snoozing in your...

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Best Camping Sleeping Bag of 2024

Owen Mitchell

Written by Owen Mitchell

Owen's outdoor pursuits range from bouldering to backpacking to backcountry skiing and everything in between.

When it comes to camping gear, nothing quite beats the sweet feeling of scrunching into a toasty, comfortable sleeping bag after a long day of adventuring. The right choice can make the difference between counting sheep and shivering sounds. So, if you're on the hunt for the best camping sleeping bag, we have a top-notch recommendation - the Kelty Cosmic Down 20.

Not only will this post outline...

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