Matt Bento

Jan 20, 2025 | gearjunkie.com | Matt Bento

The author handles the Trango Agility 9.1 at the base of a climb at Pine Creek Canyon; (photo/Miya Tsudome) Support us! GearJunkie may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn More Coming up on 2 decades of climbing, I’ve never been seriously injured. I chalk it up to consistently safe practices, great climbing partners, and a lot of luck. I have a few friends who haven’t been so lucky.

Dec 26, 2024 | gearjunkie.com | Matt Bento

As a climber, skier and gear reviewer, I’ve been lucky enough to test high-end puffy jackets in all manners of conditions. But, access to the best equipment still doesn’t keep me from getting excited about a bargain. The REI Stormhenge Down Hybrid Parka comes very close to top-notch performance while costing around half of what you can expect from some of its more venerated competitors. The REI Stormhenge Down Hybrid Parka isn’t the lightest backpacking or expedition-style puffy.

Nov 26, 2024 | gearjunkie.com | Nick Bruckbauer |Matt Bento

We tested the best winter jackets for every climate and budget -- from Patagonia, Arc'teryx, Fjallraven, The North Face, REI, and more. We tested the best winter jackets during fun outdoor adventures, and along the day-to-day winter grind; (photo/Penney Garrett)Our team of winter warriors has spent many seasons testing the best winter jackets on the market in search of the warmest and most versatile styles.

Nov 3, 2024 | gearjunkie.com | Matt Bento |Austin Beck-Doss

Autumn brings a familiar crisp to the air and a chill to our hands. Investing in the best hand warmers for the upcoming winter season will help you make the most of a day outdoors, no matter the conditions. If you plan to spend time outdoors this winter, only the best hand warmers should make your gear list. With better run time, heat retention, settings, and reusability, hand warmers have evolved from simple single-use pocket warmers to rechargeable electric warmth machines.

May 21, 2024 | gearjunkie.com | Miya Tsudome |Matt Bento

A climbing rope is one of the most important pieces of gear you can buy. It is literally your lifeline, and can also make or break your experience climbing outdoors. There are a few important factors to look for when deciding which rope to buy, such as diameter, weight, performance, and feel, and you can’t discern all of these things behind the counter of a gear shop. That’s where we come in.