Gear Guide 2020: Basecamp Kit
Our seven picks for the must-have basecamp gear of 2020.
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From late-night descents to cross-training trail runs, these necessities helped tide us over on rest days, till the next sending day.
Petzl Swift RL Headlamp
“On the rock, 900 lumens is more than necessary, but our tester appreciated the versatility—the Swift RL provided enough light for night ski descents and illuminated approaches.” Read full review.
Black Diamond Technician Approach Shoes
“Approach shoes tend to lean toward either comfort or stiffness, but BD’s Technician balances the two, making them my go-to for moving quickly over varied terrain.” Read full review.
Mountain Equipment Women’s Depiction Hoody
“The breathable, moisture-wicking layer has transitioned well from lounging at home to performance redpoints on cool days at the crag.” Read full review.
Little Secrets Dark Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookie Bars
“With the Cookie Bars, you get a touch of salt in firm, chewy caramel stacked on buttery, crisp cookies enrobed by delightfully bitter chocolate.” Read full review.
Steeped Coffee
“For backcountry coffee, Steeped’s teabag-like coffee bags are an ideal combo of convenience and flavor.” Read full review.
Salewa Dropline Running Shoes
“It performed well on long runs in the Flatirons, and allowed our tester to recover faster, with fewer aches and pains. You “feel the spring,” he said.” Read full review.
Rab Torque Light Women’s Pants
“These straight-legged pants complement any shape, while the Matrix double-weave stretch fabric plus gusseted crotch made for flowing movement.” Read full review.
See more 2020 Gear Guide reviews:
- Editors’ Choice Awards
- Bouldering Kit
- Sport Climbing Kit
- Alpine Climbing Kit
- Gym and Training Kit
- Multi-pitch and Trad Climbing Kit
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Lindsay Wescott is Climbing’s contributing art director. She’s an equal-opportunity boulderer and sport climber, preferring lowball problems and pockety, vertical routes. Lindsay also enjoys daily cardio training, which consists of chasing her two elderly cats around the house.
