Gear That Defined Our July Adventures: From Hiking Clogs to Couple’s Sleeping Mats

Published July 30, 2026 04:02PM

As the calendar pages of July turn, a familiar feeling settles in for many outdoor enthusiasts: the poignant realization that summer’s reign is fleeting. This annual sentiment, a kind of seasonal FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out), often spurs a surge of adventurous spirit, prompting a frantic scanning of schedules to cram in as many backcountry excursions as possible before the crisp embrace of autumn takes hold. This year, Backpacker editors found themselves particularly inspired, reflecting on a July filled with diverse expeditions. From multi-day family encampments along the majestic Continental Divide and explorations of the rugged beauty of Washington’s San Juan Islands, to more intimate backyard adventures on the Western Slope of Colorado, their summer escapades were made all the more enjoyable by a curated selection of essential gear. This collection, ranging from surprisingly capable foam clogs to a thoughtfully designed sleeping pad for two, represents the equipment that truly elevated their July experiences.

BOGS Boga Slip-Ons: The Unexpected Trail Companion

For $80 at BOGS, the BOGS Boga Slip-Ons have emerged as a surprising revelation in the realm of camp footwear, challenging long-held assumptions about the utility of foam clogs in the wilderness. While many backpackers still rely on the ubiquitous Crocs, often seen dangling from their packs, Editor-in-Chief Adam Roy admits to a previous skepticism. "While I’m not above slipping on a pair for running errands or doing yard work, they’re heavy for camp shoes, and not rugged or grippy enough to be useful for much more than that in the woods," he states. However, the Boga Slip-Ons, despite weighing in at a comparable 21 ounces – approximately half a pound more than the Crocs Classic Clogs – introduce a crucial upgrade: strategically placed rubber patches on the toe and heel of the outsole. This design innovation imbues the Boga with a level of traction previously absent in its foam-based counterparts, transforming it from a mere comfort item into a genuinely functional piece of gear for casual outdoor pursuits.

Roy’s experience on a family campout at Colorado’s Kenosha Pass provided a compelling testament to the Boga’s capabilities. He intentionally put them to the test during a two-mile jaunt along a section of the Colorado Trail, a route known for its uneven terrain and exposed roots. "The outsole gripped reliably enough on rocks and roots for me to feel confident," he reported, a significant endorsement for footwear typically not associated with such performance. Beyond hiking, the Boga’s waterproof nature and comfortable construction have also made them a go-to for Roy’s summer day paddles. He highlights their ability to navigate rocky shorelines with ease and their comfort for extended periods of standing, even suggesting their potential as primary footwear for multi-day summer stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) trips. The inclusion of a removable insole, crafted from a softer material than the shoe’s main body, further enhances comfort by reducing foot fatigue, a crucial factor for any extended outdoor activity. This thoughtful integration of practical features elevates the BOGS Boga Slip-Ons from a casual shoe to a versatile and dependable piece of outdoor equipment, proving that even foam can offer surprising ruggedness.

Exped Ultra 1R Duo: Redefining Couple’s Camp Comfort

The Exped Ultra 1R Duo, priced at $270 at Backcountry, is revolutionizing the shared camping experience by addressing a long-standing dilemma for couples: the awkward and often uncomfortable gap that forms between two separate sleeping pads. Senior Editor Zoe Gates, an avowed fan of tent time and the quiet moments of reading before sleep, found her cherished ritual of crossword puzzles with her partner disrupted by this perennial issue. "One of my favorite tent activities is doing a crossword puzzle with my partner. But with two sleeping pads, that inevitably means one of us ends up in the gap when we snuggle up," she explains. The Ultra 1R Duo elegantly solves this problem, offering the comfort of a double sleeping surface without the penalty of excessive weight or bulk, a critical consideration for backpackers.

Weighing in at a mere 1 pound 10 ounces, it stands out as the lightest double sleeping pad Gates has encountered, a significant achievement in a category often dominated by heavier options. Furthermore, its packed dimensions are remarkably comparable to her insulated single winter pad, minimizing its impact on backpack volume. The scarcity of lightweight double pads suitable for backpacking is a testament to Exped’s innovative approach. The Ultra 1R Duo boasts a generous 41.3-inch shoulder width, mirroring the combined width of two side-by-side single pads, providing ample space for couples to stretch out. The strategic tapering at the foot end of the pad is a clever weight-saving measure that also ingeniously liberates extra floor space within a two-person tent, creating a cozy nook for a canine companion.

Gates, who describes herself as a restless sleeper, found that the 3-inch thickness of the Ultra 1R Duo, coupled with its taller outer baffles designed to prevent roll-offs, facilitated a surprisingly peaceful shared slumber. "With a 3-inch thickness and taller baffles on the edges to keep you from rolling off the edge, we can peacefully share the Ultra 1R Duo," she confirms. While its 1.8 R-value limits its utility to warmer weather trips, Gates is encouraged by Exped’s broader commitment to catering to year-round co-sleeping needs, noting the availability of a seven-product lineup of double pads. This suggests a future where couples can continue to enjoy intimate nights under the stars, regardless of the season, with a dedicated sleeping solution. The Exped Ultra 1R Duo represents a significant leap forward in couples’ camping gear, prioritizing both shared comfort and the essential principles of ultralight backpacking.

Pingora Outro 40 Pack: A Masterclass in Organization and Versatility

The Pingora Outro 40 Pack, retailing at $200 at Pingora, has captured the admiration of Associate Editor Will Brendza, who describes it as a pack that expertly balances functionality with thoughtful design, even if it doesn’t strictly adhere to ultralight principles at 3.8 lbs. Brendza emphasizes that while not the absolute lightest on the market, its weight is more than justified by the "bells and whistles" that contribute to its exceptional utility. A standout feature is its secure roll-top closure, a design that offers unparalleled adaptability, allowing users to expand or compress the pack’s volume as needed. While its stated capacity is 40 liters, Brendza observes that when fully expanded, it can comfortably accommodate closer to 50 liters, providing ample room for extended trips.

The true brilliance of the Outro 40, however, lies in its ingenious internal organization. The pack incorporates a unique 50/50 divider, a feature Brendza hails as a "nifty" solution for segregating on-trail essentials from camp gear. This divider is not only effective but also highly adaptable, as it can be unzipped and removed entirely if a more open internal space is preferred. "I’ve found it to be a really useful organizational element, though," Brendza states, highlighting its practical benefits. Adding another layer of convenience, the pack features back panel zipper access, a design element that allows for quick retrieval of items, such as an extra layer, without the need to remove the pack entirely or even break stride. This feature is particularly beneficial during dynamic weather conditions or when navigating varied terrain.

The Outro 40’s external features also contribute to its overall appeal. The shoulder pockets are generously sized, offering ample storage without becoming obtrusive, unlike some running-specific packs. The hip belt pockets are constructed from a stretchy material, accommodating larger items like smartphones with ease. Pingora further enhances the pack’s versatility by offering an array of optional add-on features. These include a detachable brain compartment for additional storage and organization, a dedicated rain cover for inclement weather, and a chest sling day bag, which can be seamlessly integrated for shorter excursions from base camp. Brendza’s profound appreciation for the Pingora Outro 40 is evident, stating, "I have really fallen in love with my Outro 40 this summer." This sentiment underscores the pack’s successful integration into his outdoor adventures, proving that a well-designed pack can significantly enhance the overall camping and hiking experience. The Pingora Outro 40 stands as a testament to the fact that while weight is a consideration, thoughtful organization, robust construction, and user-centric features can elevate a pack into an indispensable piece of gear.