Bottom Line

The Yaktrax Walk excels as a lightweight, ultra-affordable option for casual winter outings. It delivers solid traction on winter sidewalks, packed snow, and gentle terrain. We tested our pair over multiple Rocky Mountain winters on icy parking lots, urban paths, and mixed hiking terrain. Their close-to-ground feel and smooth surface transitions were consistently reliable in low-angle conditions. Their biggest strengths are weight, simplicity, and widespread availability.

However, the limitations of these winter traction devices becomes obvious on steeper or uneven terrain. The coils don’t bite into hard ice like true spikes, the basic harness can shift or pop off, and durability leaves a lot to be desired. Aggressive or frequent hikers will likely burn through pairs faster than they’d like.

Overall, the Yaktrax Walk offers good value for occasional, predictable winter use, especially for those who want lightweight traction they can throw in a pack and forget about. If you need more security or longevity, you’ll find better options in our guide to the best ice cleats.

How We Tested

Our backyard of the Colorado Rockies is the perfect testing ground for ice cleats, and we thoroughly put them through the paces. From frozen alpine lakes to ski area parking lots, we tested the Yaxtrax Walk for traction, fit, durability, and more.

Traction

The Yaktrax Walk offers moderately aggressive traction with its 1.2 mm steel coils – a design that’s different from the studs and cleats found on most winter traction devices. This coil system provides a close-to-ground feel, which is great for transitioning between wet and dry surfaces. But it also sacrifices a bit of bite on steeper or more technical terrain.

On most surfaces you’ll encounter around town – ice, packed snow, and light, loose snow – the Walk performs better than you’d expect. The coils give an extra edge of stability and just enough confidence as long as the path stays relatively flat. 

Once the grade increases, though, the limits of this design start to show. They can limit the amount of skating but have nothing to bite into ice. They’re not as safe as spike-based systems on icy or steep terrain.

Overall, the Yaktrax Walk is ideal for everyday winter use like walking the dog, commuting to work, or navigating icy sidewalks and parking lots. For true winter hiking or uneven trails, you’ll want to step up to a more aggressive cleat with real spikes.

Fit

The Yaktrax Walk fits a wide range of footwear reasonably well, but it’s definitely a “one size fits most” kind of item. The elastic harness isn’t as secure or form-fitting as what you’ll find on higher-end cleats, but it’s still comfortable enough for everyday use. For casual walkers wearing standard shoes or light boots, the overall fit will feel adequate but not locked in.

Our biggest concern with the Walk is with security. The rubber harness has a tendency to shift, especially in uneven terrain, and it can even pop off if it catches the wrong angle. The gap along the arch – as well as the steel coils themselves – are prone to snagging on rocks and sticks, creating a potential tripping hazard on rugged trails. The Yaktrax Walk requires a little more careful fitting and adjustment overall than other ice cleats.

Ease of Use/Versatility

The Yaktrax Walk features a very simple design, but sometimes they take a little eyeballing to get them aligned correctly. They have a tendency to flip inside out when packed, and while the toe and heel are faintly marked, it’s not immediately obvious which end is which. This is annoying when using them in the dark. 

The toe basket sits right at the very tip of the shoe rather than wrapping over the top, which makes the Walk a little harder to slip into. Even once they’re on, they usually need a final wiggle and adjustment to lock in fully before you start walking.

In use, the Walk performs better for casual winter walking. Packed snow is where they excel, offering reliable, confidence-boosting grip on moderate paths and trails. On steeper icy sections, traction becomes dicey, and in loose snow, the coils can collect buildup that reduces their bite.

Weight/Packability

The best part of the Yaktrax Walk is how impressively lightweight and affordable they are. At just 3.9 ounces for the pair, they’re the lightest winter traction devices on our list, making them an easy choice for anyone who wants added traction without adding noticeable weight. They keep weight to a minimum – in your pack and on your feet – which is a nice perk for all-day wear.

However, they could be a little more packable. For such a minimalist design, the Walks are surprisingly bulky and have a habit of flipping inside out or tangling with other gear. Since they don’t come with a stuff sack, it’s easy for them to snag or get lost in your pack. We recommend tossing them in a small sack of your own or strapping them to the outside of your bag when not in use.

Durability

Durability is undeniably the Walk’s weakest point. We’ve  gone through several pairs of these ice cleats traversing icy parking lots in the winter, snapping coils and elastic harnesses. Once a coil or strap fails, these Yaktrax are unusable.

The upside is that the Yaktrax Walk is both inexpensive and widely available, making replacements quick and painless. Although we prefer gear that lasts – and stays out of the landfill – the Walks are easy to replace on short notice with minimal blow to the wallet.

Should You Buy the Yaktrax Walk?

The Yaktrax Walk is best suited for people who need a simple, lightweight boost in traction for everyday winter outings. Think walking the dog, commuting on icy sidewalks, or navigating packed-snow paths around town. They prioritize minimal weight, easy transitions between surfaces, and a simple, no-frills design. If you mostly stick to flat or gently rolling terrain and want something that adds confidence without feeling heavy or overbuilt, the Walk serves that purpose well.

However, it’s not the right choice for hikers, runners, or anyone venturing onto steep, uneven, or icy trails. The coil-based traction and basic harness aren’t secure or aggressive enough for steep or rocky terrain, and the durability simply isn’t up to frequent or high-demand use.

In terms of value, the Walk offers good bang for the buck for casual winter travel. It’s inexpensive, widely available, and feather-light, making it easy to justify as a convenience item. But those who need long-term durability or reliable grip in variable terrain will get far better value from a more robust, spike-based cleat.

What Other Traction Devices Should You Consider?

Be sure to check out our full winter traction guide to find the perfect pair of ice cleats for your needs.

Kahtoola NANOspikes Review: We like the NANOspikes better for running as they are lightweight, have strategically placed concave studs, and a grippier plastic sole. The concave stud shape provides better grip at every angle – although, they aren’t replaceable. 

Black Diamond Distance Spike Review: The Distance Spike will keep you in the realm of ultralight gear while providing much more serious traction and a superior fit. It’s a substantial upgrade in performance and durability over the Yaktrax Walk, but that jump in quality comes with a significantly higher price tag.

Yaktrax Diamond Grip Review: The Diamond Grips are also comfy under foot, but are best suited for sticky snow that tends to accumulate on your shoe or cleats. The beaded design allows the spikes to spin freely, constantly shedding excess snow. If your main concerns are durability and security, the Ice Runners are still your best bet.

Bottom Line

The Korkers Ice Runner provides a secure, reliable fit, excellent durability, and smooth transitions across a variety of winter surfaces. We tested these cleats across every type of terrain we could find in the Colorado Rockies, and their BOA tightening system and wraparound harness held fast every time. The replaceable carbide studs and strong steel cables add durability and longevity, making these cleats a solid long-term investment.

The main limitations are traction and bulk. The forward toe spike sits further back than ideal, and the absence of studs under the arch creates weak points on slick surfaces, so they aren’t ideal for running, steep hills, or deep snow. They’re also heavier and bulkier than most cleats. They’re best suited for putting on at the start of the day and leaving them on until you’re done hiking.

They’re not the cheapest cleats, but their replaceable parts and super secure fit make them a strong value. For a broader view of top-performing options, check out our guide to the best ice cleats.

How We Tested

We covered dozens of trail miles in the Rocky Mountains with the Ice Runners, testing every type of terrain we could find. We took them through deep snow, packed snow, ice, and variable surfaces to assess every aspect of their design. In addition, each piece of gear gets an up close look in a controlled setting to verify quantifiable testing metrics.

Traction

The Korkers Ice Runner features 11 carbide studs across the forefoot and heel, offering light traction on ice, packed snow, and other winter surfaces. For everyday activity or casual walks on packed snow, these cleats perform adequately, providing enough grip to give you an extra edge on slippery ground.

The studs do bite into ice when they make good contact, but they tend to miss from time to time. The forwardmost toe spike sits further back toward the ball of the foot than we’d like, and there’s only one. Consequently, we felt a noticeable and consistent slip when pushing off the toe. The absence of studs beneath the arch creates another weak point, and when the studs miss, you’re left with a slippery plastic between your soles and the slippery surface.

Despite these limitations, the Ice Runner transitions well between surfaces, moving smoothly from snow to wet pavement without catching or dragging. Although marketed as a running ice cleat, the combination of slippery plastic and sparse stud placement makes traction somewhat unpredictable, and we wouldn’t recommend running in them.

Fit

Thanks to its BOA tightening mechanism, the Ice Runner provides a secure and reliable fit across a wide range of footwear. We tried them on trail runners, hiking shoes, and mid-weight hiking boots and the Ice Runner never felt out of place.

These are some of the most secure ice cleats we’ve tested. Once you slide these babies on and get the BOA cinched down tight, they stay put all day long. The BOA cables resist loosening over time and the wraparound harness makes ample contact with your shoe. 

Our only complaint is that the fit isn’t tailored to any one shoe type. The harness is generously roomy, which is great for accommodating bulkier boots, but smaller shoes can leave a gap, especially around the toe. The forward toe section can shift or wrinkle if your shoe doesn’t fully fill the harness, which may feel a little awkward. Despite this, the Ice Runner remains impressively secure.

Ease of Use/Versatility

The Ice Runners are straightforward to use and transition effortlessly across varied terrain. The front is unmistakable from the back and the harness opens up super wide for an effortless entry. 

In addition to its precise fit and excellent security, the BOA system is very simple to use. Once your foot is in, just push down the BOA wheel and turn it clockwise until it feels nice. Releasing is as simple as pulling the wheel out until you hear a satisfying click. The handy pull tabs on the upper and the heel aren’t too shabby either. 

As long as you stay away from the steeps, the Ice Runners can handle most surfaces with ease. We were delighted by how shoe-like they felt on dry surfaces. They don’t mess with your gait or feel like platform shoes. However, proceed with caution with navigating icy hills or venturing into deep snow.

Weight/Packability

The Korkers Ice Runner isn’t exactly an ultralight’s dream. It’s a bit heavier and bulkier than most other ice cleats, which is surprising considering its light traction.

The pair weighs in at 14.8 ounces – nearly a half pound for each foot. That’s a significant weight to consider, especially if you’re planning on running in them or tackling big miles. 

The tradeoff for the Ice Runner’s exceptionally secure fit and versatility is bulk. The wraparound harness and BOA cables take up a fair amount of space in your pack, and the cables themselves create an obvious tangling hazard. A stuff sack would make packing a little easier, but you’ll have to bring your own since Korkers does not provide one with the cleats. 

These cleats are really meant to be put on at the beginning of the day and left on until you make it to camp or the car. They’re not the pair to carry with you all day just to break out of your pack when the terrain gets tough.

Durability

The thick plastic harness, 49-strand steel BOA cables, and carbide studs make the Ice Runners some of the most durable ice cleats that we’ve tested.

The cables theoretically have the tensile strength to hold several adult humans before breaking. The carbide studs are also incredibly strong and abrasion resistant but are made to be replaced if they were to break or fall out. That means that the main body of the cleat should be able to outlast multiple sets of replacement cleats.

The only caveat is the BOA cables themselves. If one were to fail, they aren’t easily repairable in the field. Any breakage would likely require sending the cleats back to Korkers for repair or replacement. While this is a minor inconvenience for casual users, it’s worth noting for those relying on the Ice Runner in remote or extended backcountry situations.

Should You Buy the Korkers Ice Runner?

The Korkers Ice Runner is ideal for winter adventurers who prioritize a secure, reliable fit over ultralight weight. These cleats are ideal for day trips, casual hikes, and everyday walks on packed snow or gentle icy paths, where you need just a little edge in stability and confident footing. Thanks to the BOA tightening system and wraparound harness, the Ice Runner stays firmly in place on a variety of shoe types, from trail runners to mid-weight hiking boots, making them one of the most secure cleats we’ve tested.

That said, they’re not the cleats for runners, steep hills, or deep snow unless you’re very confident in your footing. The forward toe spike is positioned further back, and the absence of studs under the arch creates unfortunate weak points, making traction a little unpredictable on tricky terrain.

For those who use them in the right context, the Ice Runner represents excellent value. Their durability, replaceable carbide studs, and secure fit make them a long-lasting option, and their stability and ease of use outweigh the bulk for most people. These are best put on at the start of the day and left on until your outing ends.

What Other Traction Devices Should You Consider?

Be sure to check out our full winter traction guide to find the perfect pair of ice cleats for your needs.

Kahtoola NANOspikes Review: We like the NANOspikes better for running as they are lightweight, have strategically placed concave studs, and a grippier plastic sole. The concave stud shape provides better grip at every angle – although, they aren’t replaceable. 

Yaktrax Walk Review: The Walks are slightly more noticeable under foot, but provide slightly better traction on ice over the Ice Runners. Besides that, they serve essentially the same purpose with a smaller price tag but significantly less durability.

Yaktrax Diamond Grip Review: The Diamond Grips are also comfy under foot, but are best suited for sticky snow that tends to accumulate on your shoe or cleats. The beaded design allows the spikes to spin freely, constantly shedding excess snow. If your main concerns are durability and security, the Ice Runners are still your best bet.

Bottom Line

The Black Diamond Access Spikes deliver excellent traction, a secure fit, and all-day comfort, making them the top-performing ice cleats in our guide to the best traction devices. On our test hikes through variable, early winter conditions in Colorado, they consistently impressed with their stability and reliable harness that never slipped or created pressure points.

Their biggest strengths are their hiking-focused performance and ease of use. They bite confidently into packed snow and moderate ice. Plus, the enclosed toe box keeps your foot locked in place, and the included stuff sack adds real convenience for packing.

Their main downsides are tied to versatility. They feel awkward on long stretches of dry ground, and they’re not built for technical mountaineering or mixed rock and ice travel. Still, for hikers who stick to snowy trails, they offer strong overall value – lightweight, secure, and dependable without being too costly.

How We Tested

We tested these cleats during early winter hikes in the Colorado Front Range when alpine lakes were just starting to freeze and the ground was full of mixed winter conditions. We slogged through slush, crust, ice and thin coverage to assess every aspect of their design.

Traction

The Black Diamond Access Spikes provide excellent traction for all day hikes in a variety of conditions and surfaces. The fourteen, well-spaced, 8 mm stainless steel spikes offer secure grip on packed snow and ice and even help paddle through softer, looser snow.

The Access Spikes feel at home on the trail whether it’s flat, rolling, or moderately steep mountain terrain. The three spikes mounted at the very front of the toe bite into inclines, giving you a little extra purchase on ascents. 

These strengths make the Access Spikes an excellent choice for hikers tackling typical winter routes, but they’re not designed for more extreme objectives. Their traction and harness aren’t built for technical scrambling, high-consequence mountaineering, or extended rock-and-ice terrain. They also feel slightly awkward on long stretches of bare ground. The spikes really need some ice or snow to dig into for smooth, efficient walking.

Fit

The Access Spikes use a tried-and-true harness design among top ice cleat manufacturers – and for good reason. The full-coverage elastomer wraps up and over the top of the foot, creating a snug, uniform hug that stays comfortable all day long. In our testing on long winter hikes, the Access Spikes never slipped, loosened, or caused pressure points. They simply locked in and stayed put, even on uneven and steep terrain.

One of the biggest failure points we see with other cleats is the toe area. It’s often too tight, which causes discomfort. Or it’s too loose, which allows the shoe to drift and compromises traction. We appreciate Black Diamond’s almost fully enclosed toe box that cups the front of your shoe securely. It prevents your toe from sliding forward and eliminates the risk of poking through the harness on descents.

Overall, the Access Spikes are built for all-day, worry-free comfort and stability. Their dependable fit is one of the standout reasons they work so well for long winter adventures.

Ease of Use/Versatility

Although the Access Spikes aren’t ideal for everyday use, they offer excellent hiking-focused versatility. They’re also refreshingly simple to use. The toe and heel are clearly defined, which cuts down on fumbling when you’re gearing up in the cold, and the dual pull tabs make it easy to stretch the harness into place without pinching your fingers. Once on, they feel secure and ready for action.

The Access Spikes do most things well — but not everything. They deliver dependable traction for the full spectrum of winter hiking as long as there’s at least some snow or ice underfoot. On dry concrete or bare pavement, though, the spikes feel awkward and slightly unstable, which makes them less suited for casual, around-town errands. These are purpose-built tools for hikers who spend their winters on real trails, not city sidewalks. In their recommended context, they perform exactly as you’d hope.

Weight/Packability

At just 9.3 ounces for the pair, plus an included stuff sack, the Black Diamond Access Spikes give the competition a real run for their money. Dedicated ultralight backpackers may still find them a touch heavy for long-distance trips, but they land comfortably within lightweight territory and strike an excellent balance between low weight and aggressive, confidence-inspiring traction. At roughly 4.4 extra ounces per foot, they add very little bulk to your stride.

The included stuff sack is a welcome addition, especially since ice cleats have a bad habit of snagging or tangling with other gear when tossed loosely into a pack. With the sack keeping everything contained, the Access Spikes compress down to roughly the size of a baseball — easy to stash, easy to grab, and far tidier than other competitors.

Durability

Several users have noted reduced longevity in the Access Spikes compared to the Kahtoola MICROspikes, probably due to their lightweight design. But so far, we haven’t had any issues.

The elastomer harness retains its stretchiness without cracking even in subfreezing temperatures. The hardened stainless steel spikes and chains should have no problem holding up to years of normal use. The stitching is also solid, and the chain attachment points are reinforced with hard plastic.

As long as you treat them with a reasonable amount of care, the Access Spikes should last for a good while.

Should You Buy the Black Diamond Access Spike?

The Black Diamond Access Spikes are an excellent match for hikers who don’t let winter get in the way of crushing miles. These spikes power through most winter terrain – whether it’s packed snow, rolling terrain, or moderately steep mountain routes. They shine when there’s at least some ice or snow underfoot, offering reliable traction, all-day comfort, and a secure fit.

They’re not ideal for technical mountaineering, mixed rock-and-ice travel, or everyday use around town. The spikes simply aren’t serious enough for high-consequence objectives and are awkward and overkill for slushy sidewalks.

In terms of value, the Access Spikes hit a sweet spot for hikers who want high performance without unnecessary weight or complexity. They offer excellent traction, a standout fit, and convenient packability at a reasonable price point. They may not be the most durable model on the market, but typical winter hikers can’t go wrong with the Access Spikes.

What Other Traction Devices Should You Consider?

Be sure to check out our full winter traction guide for options across the entire traction spectrum. 

Kahtoola MICROspikes Review: A longtime favorite, the Kahtoola MICROspikes invented the tried and true design the Access Spike now uses. The main difference with the Kahtoola is increased durability and traction in a slightly heavier package. 

Black Diamond Distance Spike Review: The Distance Spike features the same level of aggressive traction while being much more running focused. The harness is lighter, more comfortable, and a touch more secure on trail runs. The downside is decreased durability due to the lighter materials.

Kahtoola EXOspikes Review: The EXOspikes represent an excellent middle ground between casual traction and hiking traction. They’re light enough to run in yet surprisingly grippy on steep terrain. They also maintain a low profile that doesn’t feel overly awkward when transitioning to dry surfaces.

Bottom Line

The brand-new Exped Terra 15 is a mid-level sleeping bag that delivers reliable warmth, comfort, and practical features at a very approachable price point. We tested it in the Rocky Mountains’ Indian Peaks Wilderness during a chilly fall, with nighttime temperatures dropping into the high 20s, and it kept us warm all night. The 650-fill-power down may not offer the loft of premium options, but the generous 28 ounces of fill compensates, making it a dependable, three-season bag for most backpackers.

The Terra 15’s mummy shape balances warmth with a bit of extra room, especially in the gusseted footbox. The hood fits well, and the 20D shell and liner feel soft yet durable. Exped also packs in plenty of thoughtful features including a cinchable hood, draft collar with snap, interior pocket, and glow-in-the-dark zipper tab. The Terra also comes with a compression sack that reduces packed size significantly. 

As you’d expect at this price, this bag is one of the heavier ones we tested. For top-performing ultralight options, see our guide to the best backpacking sleeping bags.

Still, the Terra 15 offers excellent value for new or casual backpackers seeking a reliable, comfortable, and fully featured three-season bag.

HOW WE TESTED

We tested this brand-new sleeping bag in Colorado’s Indian Peaks Wilderness to see how it stacked up against backpacking’s long-standing favorites. We evaluated every detail – from warmth and comfort to overall usability – in real-world conditions to determine how well it performs when it really matters.

Warmth

The Exped Terra 15 performs beautifully in cold conditions for its price point. While 650 fill power isn’t the loftiest insulation out there, the generous 28 ounces of fill weight helps to compensate. In our experience, it definitely lives up to its ISO-tested 26ºF comfort level. The Terra kept us warm all night during a chilly fall in the Rocky Mountains with nighttime temperatures down into the high 20s/low 30s.

The bag is thoughtfully designed to keep drafts out, with a generous draft collar that snaps snugly in place and horizontal baffles which keep the down from shifting around and creating cold spots. The bag’s classic mummy shape also acts to increase its thermal efficiency. 

For a mid level, affordable three-season sleeping bag, the Exped Terra 15 (also available in 0ºF and 30) is one of the best-performing mid-tier options we’ve found.

Comfort

One of our favorite characteristics of the Terra 15 is the balance between a thermally efficient mummy shape and comfortable roominess. Although it’s not as roomy as spoon-shaped or rectangular bags, it’s a step above most mummies. 

The gusseted footbox is absolutely cavernous. If you tend to karate kick in your sleep, this is the bag for you. Moving up, the hips and the shoulders both provide slightly above average girth for a mummy bag. The shoulders are 60” around, which is great for most people, but broad-shouldered folks might consider the 67-inch wide version. The 20D shell and liner fabric strike a good balance between softness and durability.

The hood is a good size as well – big enough to hold a small pillow but snug enough to keep your head warm.

Weight & Packability

The Exped Terra 15 trades a bit of weight and packability for its approachable price point. Its 650-fill-power down helps keep costs reasonable, but that lower fill power means it’s heavier and less compressible than premium options. The regular version weighs 2 pounds 11.5 ounces on its own, but with the included compression sack, total weight creeps up to roughly 3 pounds.

The compression sack is impressively effective though, shrinking the packed size to a compact 10 by 8 inches. If you’d rather save a few ounces, you can skip the sack and free-pack it, but it’ll take up considerably more room in your backpack.

For seasoned ultralighters, 3 pounds may sound hefty, but for most backpackers, it’s a big upgrade from entry-level synthetics bags.

Features

The Terra 15 is a fully-featured bag, sacrificing very little in terms of convenience. It even comes with one thing that most down bags don’t – a compression sack.

The bag itself features a plastic, webbing-lined zipper with a glow-in-the-dark pull tab, a cinchable hood, one interior pocket, and a draft collar that snaps closed. The zipper glides smoothly for the most part, though we occasionally struggled with the final few inches. That glow-in-the-dark tab, however, is a surprisingly useful touch when getting in or out of the bag after dark.

The hood’s drawcord is easy to access and tightens evenly for a snug seal, and the draft collar snap helps close the smallest gaps. The interior pocket is nice for a phone, headlamp, or water filter, but it’s not huge. It barely fits large smartphones.

Should You Buy the Exped Terra 15?

The Terra 15 is an excellent choice for casual backpackers building out their first ultralight kit. It also offers a significant upgrade from heavy, entry-level synthetics. The 650-fill-power down is much more affordable than 850 fill power or higher. Exped packs the bag with a generous amount of down to keep you warm all night.

In addition to its affordability, the Terra’s strong point is its practical feature set. The cinchable hood, draft collar with snap, interior pocket, and glow-in-the-dark zipper tab all make bedtime in the backcountry just a little more convenient. Although it adds a bit of extra weight, the compression sack is a handy bonus that’ll save you valuable pack space. 

Ultralighters seeking to shave every gram with a top performing bag can find better options. But the Exped Terra offers solid performance for its price point.

What Other Backpacking Sleeping Bags Should You Consider?

To weigh the Terra 15 against all of our favorite bags, check out our full guide to backpacking sleeping bags.

Mountain Hardware Bishop 15 Review: The Bishop 15 is very close to the Terra 15 in performance. It has the same quality 650 fill power down, soft fabric, handy features, and a semi-roomy build. It has a slightly lower fill weight though, making it lighter than the Terra 15 but not as warm.

NEMO Disco 15 Endless Promise Review: If you perked up at the mention of a roomier bag, you might want to check out NEMO’s Endless Promise line. This is a “spoon-shaped” bag over a true mummy, giving it lots of extra room especially at the shoulders and hips. It even has “Thermo Gills” to fine tune temperature control.

REI Magma: Stepping up one more level in quality and performance, the REI Magma is one of the best value down bags out there. It’s made with lofty, lightweight, and packable 850 fill power down and has reliably kept us warm on dozens of nights in the backcountry.

Bottom Line

The Enlightened Equipment Enigma 20 is one of the warmest backpacking quilts we’ve tested, offering outstanding warmth-to-weight performance for ultralighters and thru-hikers. We tested it on chilly nights in the Himalayas, where it held its own in freezing temps with only minor drafts. That’s why it ranks near the top of the best backpacking sleeping bags and quilts.

The 850-fill down version we used packed down incredibly small, and the optional 950-fill upgrade offers even more loft and efficiency. Its wide cut and simple pad-strap system help seal in warmth better than most quilts we’ve tried. Though, it still takes some practice to use effectively.

Comfort is excellent for an ultralight design, but the lack of a hood, zipper, or pockets means it’s best for experienced backpackers who value minimalism. For those prioritizing low weight, packability, and high-end craftsmanship, the Enigma delivers excellent long-term value.

HOW WE TESTED

We put the Enigma 20 to the test in some of the world’s least hospitable environments – the Himalayan mountains. We relied on it to keep us warm for 100 miles around Mount Manaslu, all while assessing its warmth, comfort, and feature set.

Warmth

Quilts can be trickier to stay warm in than traditional sleeping bags, but the Enlightened Equipment Enigma 20 ranks among the warmest that we’ve put through the wringer. It doesn’t have an official ISO or EN rating, but the Enigma kept us warm in freezing temperatures in the Himalayas apart from the occasional draft.

It’s available with either 15.46 ounces of 850 fill power duck down or 13.83 ounces of 950 fill power goose down. We tried out the 850 version, but the 950 option provides slightly more loft, providing the same warmth at a lighter weight.

The Enigma is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a hot sleeper, a frigid sleeper, or just want a quilt for every season, Enlightened Equipment has you covered. They offer the Enigma in a wide range of options from 0º all the way up to 50º in 10-degree increments as well as a slew of size options.

One major difference that we’ve noticed with the Enigma is that it seems to do a better job at blocking drafts than other quilts we’ve tried. The quilt’s generous width and included pad straps help it stay snug around your body and sleeping pad. That said, its vertical baffle design requires proper care. If you don’t take good care to keep the down dry and lofted, it has the potential to clump up and shift around, creating unfortunate cold spots. Because quilts lack a built-in hood – by design – we recommend pairing the Enigma with a beanie, hooded puffy, or the Enlightened Equipment Torrid Hood to stay fully warm on cold nights.

Comfort

The Enigma offers more blanket-like comfort than bag-like comfort. Its open, zipperless back lets you spread out freely on warm nights or tuck in when the temperature drops. The sewn footbox is permanently closed, creating a warm and secure cocoon for your feet with a snug, 40-inch girth.

At the top, the 54-inch shoulder width feels generous, especially for a backless quilt. It’s wide enough to wrap comfortably around most users and reach the edges of a standard sleeping pad, helping to minimize drafts without feeling restrictive. 

The 10D shell fabric is not the most luxurious material out there, but it feels soft enough against the skin and does a good job of maintaining light weight and packability. As with most ultralight gear, it requires a little care to prevent snags or wear over time.

Weight & Packability

One of the biggest advantages of a quilt design is the dramatic weight savings. By eliminating the insulation and fabric that would normally sit underneath you – and instead relying on your sleeping pad for ground insulation – the Enigma cuts serious ounces.

The 950-fill-power version is the most compressible, though the 850-fill model still packs down impressively small – about 13 inches by 6 inches. The ultralight 10D shell fabric also contributes to its compact size, making the Enigma an easy fit in even the smallest packs.

At just 1 pound 5.6 ounces for the regular width and length, the Enigma 20 ranks among the lightest, true, three-season options out there. For those who can handle it, a 50°F short and slim version comes in at an astonishing 9.21 ounces. No matter which setup you choose, the Enigma offers exceptional weight savings and some of the best compressibility out there.

Features

Quilts are minimalist by design, so if you’re after a fully featured sleeping bag, the Enigma isn’t it. There’s no hood, no zipper, and definitely no pockets – just the absolute essentials to keep you warm. Unlike Enlightened Equipment’s Revelation Quilt, which has a zippered and drawstring footbox for adjustable ventilation, the Enigma’s footbox is permanently sewn shut to increase thermal efficiency and decrease weight.

To compensate for the open-back design, the Enigma comes with two elastic straps to secure the quilt to your sleeping pad. These help seal out drafts and keep you anchored to your pad instead of sliding around on slippery plastic all night. Unfortunately, the straps aren’t nearly as effective on foam pads. They’ll help to keep everything in place a little better, but won’t eliminate gaps entirely. At the top, a pair of snaps and an adjustable drawcord let you cinch the quilt snugly around your shoulders and neck.

Even though the lack of features might be a big change to some, the bare-bones design is what keeps the Enigma’s weight and bulk very low, making it one of the lightest and most efficient sleep systems available.

Should You Buy the Enlightened Equipment Enigma?

The Enlightened Equipment Enigma is made for thru-hikers and experienced backpackers looking to cut every possible ounce from their pack to hike farther and faster. It’s also ideal for those who dislike the restrictive feel of a mummy bag or for hot sleepers who appreciate the open, ventilated design.

With its sewn footbox and minimal feature set, the Enigma trims away everything but the essentials to keep you warm and cozy at night. Enlightened Equipment makes it easy to dial in the perfect fit with a very wide range of size and temperature ratings. Both the 850-fill and 950-fill power versions use premium down that packs impressively small while delivering a solid warmth-to-weight ratio.

That said, quilts aren’t for everyone. If you are an especially cold or finicky sleeper, you may want to stick with a traditional mummy bag. They take some getting used to – even some ultralight backpackers find them a bit tricky. But this one is lighter, more compressible, and more affordable than sleeping bags, earning it a top ranking on our list.

What Other Backpacking Sleeping Bags Should You Consider?

If you’re not sold on our favorite quilt, be sure to check out our full guide to backpacking sleeping bags to compare it with our other top picks. 

Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20 Review: The Revelation is extremely similar to the Enigma, but the footbox has a zipper and a drawstring to adjust ventilation at the feet. This adds a little bit of weight and isn’t quite as warm on cold nights, but it allows you to completely open the quilt into a blanket.

Feathered Friends Swallow UL20 Review: This is our favorite ultralight mummy bag. It’s made with many of the luxuries of a standard mummy bag – full length zipper, cinchable hood, draft collar – but rivals the weight of a quilt. 

Zpacks Classic 20 Review: The Classic bridges the gap between a quilt and a traditional sleeping bag. It opens wide like a quilt for easy ventilation but features a ¾-length zipper that allows you to fully close it up to the neck. Like most quilts, it skips the hood in favor of a simple drawstring closure at the top. The result is an incredibly lightweight and versatile design, but keep in mind that Zpacks temperature ratings tend to be very generous.

Bottom Line

The Feathered Friends Swallow UL20 stands out for its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, premium materials, and thru-hiker tested craftsmanship. On our 30-mile backpacking trip through Colorado’s Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, it proved impressively warm, living up to its 20°F claim. The 950+ fill power goose down outperforms most other sleeping bags we tested as a super lofty, efficient, and ultralight insulator. It’s also incredibly compressible, saving valuable space in your pack. 

Its comfort is on par with most mummy bags, though broad-shouldered or restless sleepers may find it slightly snug. We also wish it included a small interior pocket, but its minimalist design keeps the weight impressively low.

This is a bag for dedicated backpackers who prioritize warmth, packability, and long-term value. The price point represents an investment in weight savings and quality sleep rather than a budget bag to serve a casual annual trip.

HOW WE TESTED

Through decades of hands-on experience in the backcountry, we’ve assessed dozens of sleeping bags in every condition imaginable. We took the Swallow UL20 on a 30-mile backpacking trip in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness of Colorado during a chilly Rocky Mountain Autumn. We used our years of knowledge to assess the bag’s warmth, comfort, weight, packability, and features.

Warmth

We were seriously impressed with the Feathered Friends Swallow UL20’s warmth, even when pushed to its limits. Even though Feathered Friends doesn’t list an EN or ISO comfort rating, we think the Swallow UL20 comes very close to its 20°F claim – a rarity in the sleeping bag world.

On a chilly trip through Colorado’s Elk Range, this bag kept us toasty warm all night long with nighttime temps into the low 30s. The regular size, 20-degree version packs 16.8 ounces of exceptional 950+ fill power goose down insulation. The incredibly high fill power helps the down keep your body heat trapped inside. The horizontal baffles help keep the down evenly distributed, minimizing cold spots and preventing heat from escaping through thin areas.

The mummy shape also plays a key role, minimizing dead space so your body heat warms the interior faster.

The Swallow comes in both 20°F and 30°F versions, and we’d consider both solid three-season options. Go with the 20°F if you tend to run cold, or the 30°F if you’re a naturally warm sleeper looking to save a few ounces.

Comfort

Feathered Friends nailed the balance of comfort and warmth with the Swallow UL20. Mummy bags are inherently more thermally efficient than rectangular bags or quilts, but they often feel tight or even claustrophobic. The Swallow strikes a happy middle ground. It’s not sprawling by any means, but it offers average to slightly above-average roominess for its class.

The footbox is the most tapered area at 42 inches in circumference, helping to keep your feet snug and warm. For most sleepers, that’s ideal, but if you tend to thrash or “karate kick” in your sleep, you might find it a touch restrictive.

The bag tapers from 55 inches at the hips to 64 inches at the elbows, providing enough room for most guys and gals to move around without losing much heat. The shoulder girth measures 60 inches, which is roomy enough in our experience, but might be a bit constricting for stockier guys. The hood is pleasantly roomy and large enough to secure a small pillow.

For fall 2025, Feathered Friends gave the Swallow a notable upgrade with a Pertex Quantum Pro shell and Pertex Diamond Fuse fabric reinforcing the footbox. The result is a fabric that feels both softer and more durable than most ultralight materials – adding a touch of luxury to an otherwise performance-focused design.

Weight & Packability

The Feathered Friends Swallow UL20 is one of the lightest true sleeping bags on the market — and it does so without cutting corners on warmth or creating dishonest claims. At just 1 pound 11.3 ounces for the regular length (without its stuff sack), the UL20 is impressively light for a 20-degree bag. The long version adds a mere 1.4 ounces. Or, if you want to go as light as possible, the UL30 can get as low as 1 pound 8.3 ounces. 

That ultra-high fill power down also means outstanding compressibility. Whether you are utilizing the included stuff sack or just free packing around the empty space in your bag, the UL20 takes up minimal real estate.

Features

The Swallow UL20 keeps things refreshingly simple (and lightweight) by including only the essentials. You won’t find any gimmicks here, just well-executed features that serve a clear purpose. The standard plastic zipper glides smoothly along without excessive snagging, even when you’re half-asleep and fumbling in the dark. A roomy hood cinches down snugly with a drawcord to seal in warmth, and a small draft collar with a snap closure helps block out stray drafts at the top – though we found the snap itself doesn’t add much functionally.

Feathered Friends clearly prioritized weight savings over extras, skipping things like interior pockets, glow-in-the-dark zipper pulls, or arm openings that can add bulk and weight. Still, we wouldn’t mind a small internal stash pocket for keeping a phone or water filter warm on frigid nights.

Overall, the pared-down feature set perfectly aligns with the Swallow UL20’s ultralight philosophy. It gives you everything you need and nothing you don’t, maintaining the focus on warmth, quality, and weight savings.

Should You Buy the Feathered Friends Swallow UL20?

The Feathered Friends Swallow UL20 is built for serious backpackers and thru-hikers who want maximum warmth from the lightest possible package. It’s ideal for those who count ounces but still expect reliable comfort in below-freezing conditions. The combination of 950+ fill power down, efficient design, and premium materials make it one of our favorite sleeping bags of all time.

The Swallow UL20 isn’t designed for casual campers or those who like roomy comfort and extra features. Its minimalist design and mummy shape may feel restrictive to those who desire extra luxury. 

Though it’s certainly not a budget bag, the Swallow’s exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, durability, and craftsmanship deliver a lot of value for serious adventurers. For those who spend countless nights in the backcountry, it’s a long-term investment in warmth and quality sleep.

What Other Backpacking Sleeping Bags Should You Consider?

For more options, see our full guide to the best sleeping bags for backpackers, including these bags:

REI Magma 15 Review: If you’re looking for similar warmth as the UL20 at a more affordable price, the Magma 15 can deliver. It’s noticeably heavier than the UL20 but also one of the most accurately rated bags we’ve tested. We’ve used the Magma time and time again in cold conditions and were consistently impressed with its thermal efficiency.

Western Mountaineering UltraLite 20 Review: When it comes to top-of-the-line bags made by cottage companies with an eye towards quality, the Western Mountaineering UltraLite 20 is directly competitive by price, fill power, and warmth. The UltraLite 20, however, is lighter, has a higher temperature rating, and offers a wider cut, making it more comfortable and versatile for more users.

Feathered Friends Swallow YF 20 Review: For a slightly heavier and warmer version of this bag, try the Feathered Friends Swallow YF 20 – which uses a more durable, 20D YFuse fabric.

Bottom Line

Although it’s not the most fun to carry because of its size and weight, the Counter Assault is hard to beat when it comes to security, durability, and acceptance. We’ve tested bear canisters for dozens of nights in some of the most densely populated bear areas, and with the Bearkeg, we’ve always slept peacefully knowing our food was safe.

The bright yellow finish makes it easy to spot your bear canister from afar, but bears cannot see the enticing food inside. Bears will also dislike the three-way keylock design that needs a coin to open. Once inside, the spacious interior provides plenty of room to pack a week’s worth of food and makes packing and unpacking simple. It can even serve as a camp stool, although the domed top isn’t the most comfortable seat around.

The Bearkeg offers an affordable choice for backpackers heading into dense bear territory, but ultralight hikers aiming to shave every ounce might prefer a transparent canister or kevlar bag.

Our guide to the best bear canisters and backpacking food storage has many other options if you’re looking for something else.

How We Tested

We put the Bearkeg through its paces in dense black bear country during peak hyperphagia season, carrying it across dozens of trail miles in the Rocky Mountains. Along the way, we tested its capacity and usability in real-world backpacking scenarios, confirming that it lives up to all of the manufacturer’s claims.

Weight & Packability

At 3 pounds 11.4 ounces (the heaviest bear canister on our list), weight isn’t the Bearkeg’s strong point. This isn’t the canister you bring when you’re counting ounces. It’s best for group trips where the load can be shared or rotated among hikers.

Packing the Bearkeg can be just as challenging as carrying it. Standing 13.5 inches tall with a 29-inch circumference, it eats up a lot of pack space. Realistically, vertical packing is your only option.

No backpack we’ve tested so far fits it horizontally. Packing it vertically is really the only viable option. Its smooth, slightly tapered sides also make it tricky to strap securely to the outside of a pack. If you’re planning to bring the Bearkeg, we recommend pairing it with a pack that has a V-strap or dual straps on the lid, or at least 60 liters of capacity.

Ease of Use

The Counter Assault Bearkeg requires a coin or similar object to unlock, but overall, it’s quite simple to use. The only potential drawback for some might be the opaque walls, which block your snacks from view, but they also provide extra security against curious critters.

To open the lid, simply use a coin to turn the three stainless steel locks. The clearly marked lid then swings open to reveal a large opening that makes packing and unpacking easy. The lid is a little hard to grip with your fingers, but it easily falls out if tipped on its edge.

Another complaint some folks might have with the Bearkeg is its domed lid. The canister is sturdy enough to be used as a stool, but the domed top isn’t as comfortable on the butt.

Security

The Bearkeg’s security is unquestionable – this thing is built like a WWII bunker. Its thick, rigid plastic shell barely flexes and feels like it could withstand a nuclear blast. In other words, no bear’s getting into this one.

Opening the canister requires human-level dexterity. The lid has three stainless steel locks that must be turned with a coin or similar tool – simple enough for people with opposable thumbs, impossible for paws and claws. That’s humans: 2, bears: 0. 

While transparent canisters make it easier to spot small items, the Bearkeg’s opaque walls actually work in your favor by reducing a bear’s curiosity about what’s inside, keeping your food much safer.

Permit CompatibiLity

The Counter Assault Bear keg is certified by the IGBC and is an approved container for all National Parks. The Bearkeg is a popular model stocked by ranger stations for rental to the public.

Capacity

The Bearkeg holds a lot of food. As a test, we checked how many dehydrated Good-to-Go meals we could fit into each canister while still closing it tightly, and the Bearkeg was able to hold 21 meals. That’s enough for 3 meals a day for a week, or dinners for three weeks!

In reality, the Bearkeg can store a week’s worth of food or more if you pack it carefully. 

Should You Buy the Counter Assault Bearkeg?

Due to its large size and weight, the Counter Assault Bearkeg isn’t suitable for every trip, especially if you want to keep your pack lightweight. Instead, it’s best for long solo journeys or shorter group trips where persistent bears are a known concern. 

Where bears are a real threat, however, you can relax knowing your food is secure inside the Bearkeg. It’s so sturdy and dependable that it probably won’t see a redesign unless a prehistoric super-bear species emerges from an ice age hibernation. Its reliability is supported by a list of agencies, including the NPS, so you can feel confident that you’re following food storage regulations virtually anywhere you go.

Luckily, the Bearkeg is no match for the human brain (and thumbs). Provided you have something flat and sturdy, it’s easy to open and even easier to pack thanks to its cavernous opening.

What Other Bear Canisters and Backpacking Food Storage Should You Consider?

Want a lighter option? See our complete guide to backpacking food storage.

Bare Boxer Champ Review: The Champ has a similar design to the Bearkeg, featuring a tool-dependent mechanism, tapered shape, and durable, opaque construction. Although it holds less food, it’s much lighter and easier to pack. 

REI Traverse Review: Of all the transparent bear canisters, the REI Traverse inspires the most confidence with its thicker plastic walls and heavy-duty locking mechanism. It can even collapse in size as your food supply decreases or be adjusted to a smaller size for a quick trip.

BearVault BV500 Journey Review: BearVaults remain some of the most popular bear canisters used on the trail. They are simple, easy to pack, and affordable.

Bottom Line

The BV450 Jaunt is a practical bear canister for solo hikers or couples on most trips. It combines a lightweight, compact design with reasonable security and capacity. Weighing just over two pounds, it easily holds three to four days of food, depending on how it’s packed. Its wide-mouth opening and transparent walls make packing and finding items easy.

The flat lid also works as a camp stool or side table, adding extra convenience to backcountry camps.

We have relied on the BV450 on many multi-day adventures—most recently on a trip in the Maroon Bells–Snowmass Wilderness during peak hyperphagia season. It is certified by both the IGBC and SIBBG and performs well in most backcountry scenarios. For more details on how it compares to other options, check out our our guide to the best bear canisters.

How We Tested

Most recently, we tested the BV450 on a trip in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness during peak hyperphagia season, but this canister has been a long-time go-to for us on many trips. We relied on firsthand experience to evaluate its ease of use, security, acceptance, capacity, and portability. 

Weight & Packability

The Jaunt is among the most popular BearVault canisters because of its ideal balance of weight, size, and capacity. The BV450 just exceeds two pounds and provides about eight liters (just under 500 cubic inches) of pack space. It stands at 8.25 inches tall with an 8.75-inch diameter, making it easy to fit either vertically or horizontally in most packs. 

The BV450 also packs decently on the outside of a bag. It’s not the slipperiest canister, but it lacks the grooves of the BV500 that help hold it in place. Instead, the outside of the canister is textured with tiny bumps spaced about an inch apart.

Overall, the compact BV450 is positioned right in the middle of the lineup when it comes to portability.

Ease of Use

The BV450 Jaunt uses the same twist-and-press lid design as its larger sibling, which is both clever and somewhat frustrating. To open it, you need to press each of the two tabs while twisting the lid past its locking points. This process feels fairly easy most of the time, but cold temperatures (and gloves) make it worse because the plastic stiffens and fingers become less nimble. 

On the positive side, the transparent walls are helpful when you’re hunting for that one stubborn snack buried inside, and the wide opening makes packing and unpacking straightforward.

At camp, the BV450 pulls double duty surprisingly well. It’s sturdy, flat, and just the right size to be used as a mini stool or side table.

Security

The BV450 Jaunt performs well in most backcountry conditions. Its polycarbonate shell is lighter and more flexible than some of the tank-like models. For most areas and situations, it’s durable enough. Smaller critters like raccoons and rodents don’t stand a chance, and it effectively deters typical black bear curiosity. However, there are recorded incidents of bears rolling away the BV450, as well as numerous images in online reviews of cans that have significant damage (scroll to reviews).

All in all, the BV450 strikes a good balance between security and portability. For extra protection and peace of mind, pair it with a Smellyproof bag.

Permit CompatibiLity

It’s important to check local regulations before relying on the BV450 Jaunt, as approval can vary by region. It is accepted in Yosemite. 

The BV450 Jaunt has certifications from both the IGBC and SIBBG (the standard for Yosemite), which meet the requirements for most backcountry areas zones. BearVaults have also recently been approved for use in the Adirondacks, though the Adirondack Mountain Club does note that BearVault canisters (not the BV450 specifically) have been compromised by black bears there.

Capacity

BearVault lists the 7.2-liter BV450’s capacity at three to four days of food for one person, which seems accurate for the average backpacker.

We managed to fit 11 bulky dehydrated meals into the canister, but by repacking your food and organizing it strategically, you could likely squeeze an extra day or two out of it. The BV450 has one of the most practical capacities for a single person – ideal for the most common trip lengths.

Should You Buy the BearVault BV450 Jaunt?

The BV450 Jaunt is perfect for solo hikers or couples looking for a lightweight, compact bear canister with decent food capacity. Its small size and light weight make it a strong option for multi-day trips with long distances and limited pack space.

The clear walls allow for quick contents checks, while the flat, durable lid can serve as a small stool or side table at camp. Its twist-off lid can be frustrating on cold days, but it remains one of our favorite bear canisters, especially for budget-conscious ultralight backpackers.

It does meet the standards for all backcountry zones, including Yosemite and the Adirondacks. The BV450 offers a blend of security, portability, and capacity, making it a great value for backpackers who want a canister that performs well on most trips without adding unnecessary bulk.

What Other Bear Canisters and Backpacking Food Storage Should You Consider?

See our full guide to food storage options for more lightweight or widely accepted alternatives.

BearVault BV500 Journey Review: For a little more capacity, the BV500 fits about 5-6 days of food. Its taller design creates a more comfortable stool or eating surface, and it easily straps onto the outside of a pack. It takes up quite a bit of pack space, but it is only seven ounces heavier than the BV450.

REI Traverse Review: Can’t decide on a size? The REI Traverse is the first canister we’ve seen that collapses down as your food supply dwindles, or can be converted to a smaller size altogether. This two-in-one design makes the Traverse a great value. 

Smellyproof Bags Review: We always recommend using Smellyproof bags with a bear canister. Although the larger ones don’t fit perfectly in the BV450, they provide an extra layer of security.

Bottom Line

The REI Traverse is a two-in-one bargain that solves the issue of needing a single bear canister for any trip length. Its modular design folds down and expands to two sizes, accommodating both 2-day and 5-day trips equally.

This sturdy canister is secure enough to withstand the best efforts of both grizzly and black bears, with certifications from WMI and IGBC. Although it appears to be a lightweight, transparent plastic container, the weight is noticeable when handling the Traverse. It’s a heavy-duty bear canister with a durable locking mechanism. We appreciate the practicality, but after several nights of testing in the Rocky Mountains, we believe the first version of the Traverse’s user-friendliness could benefit from some refinement.

Of course, the hallmark and main selling point of the Traverse is its modular capabilities which allow it to collapse as you eat your food, or morph into a different size entirely. This design is revolutionary for the budget backpacker and a tough price point to beat. For more heavy-duty bear canisters, see our guide to the best bear canisters.

How We Tested

We have hundreds of hours of hands-on experience with the industry’s top bear canisters, from the lab to the trail.

Dozens of nights in the backcountry, from the Rocky Mountains to the Sierras, inform our understanding of the most important features in food storage.

Weight & Packability

Weighing in at 3 pounds 8.3 ounces, the REI Traverse is the second heaviest bear canister on our list. It’s also not the easiest to pack. In its full size configuration, the canister only fits vertically inside of a backpack. Strapping it onto the outside is okay as long as you have a V-strap or one strap on each end, but a single strap can’t effectively grip the slippery, wide belly of the REI Traverse.

If you collapse the canister to a smaller size, packing becomes much easier. The compact version weighs about 2 pounds 7.3 ounces (still heavy for its size) and can fit horizontally into most backpacks.

The added bonus of the REI Traverse is that, once you’ve eaten half of your food, the container can be compacted to its smaller size and nested into the remaining half to save space.

Ease of Use

The REI Traverse isn’t impractical by bear canister standards, but this first version could use some refinement. We’re eager to see how this new canister develops in the future.

We love the finger indentations on the lid, which provide a grip when you unscrew it. We also appreciate its unique modular features and the super wide opening. The transparent orange color is easy to spot from a distance in low light and lets you see the contents. It even doubles as a great camp stool.

However, the whole mechanism just requires a bit more effort to operate than we’d like. The lid has to be turned while simultaneously pressing both metal tabs with both hands. The lid itself has a lot of friction and has to be wrestled off.

The canister’s threads are built into the inner wall, which creates a wider opening but requires careful packing. If any food or packaging gets caught in the threads, the lid can become frustratingly difficult to remove.The main takeaway here is that all of the components are practical, intelligent, and they do work, but with more effort than other canisters.

Security

If a canister takes some effort for a person to open, it usually means it’s more than bear-proof. As mentioned earlier, the REI Traverse’s locking mechanism needs a fair amount of dexterity.

As opposed to all plastic components, the REI Traverse’s push tabs that lock the lid in place are made of metal. That means they virtually can’t be broken, chewed, or worn down. On the downside, bears are smart, and one could conceivably use the finger indentations on the lid to unscrew it if accidentally left unlocked.

Although it’s nice to see the food inside your canister, bears can see it too. With transparent containers like this one, bears are more likely to persist, putting your canister (and potentially your food) at greater risk of abuse.

Permit CompatibiLity

The REI Traverse is approved by both the IGBC (Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee) for effectiveness against grizzly bears and the WMI (Wildlife Management Institute) for black bears. 

The transparency of the Traverse has a caveat. Places like Yosemite National Park and the Adirondacks have historically discouraged see-through canisters. As the REI Traverse is a new model, it’s not yet on Yosemite’s list of approved bear canisters. Only time will tell how other agencies receive it in the long run.

Capacity

Depending on its configuration, the REI Traverse can hold from one to five days’ worth of food. While REI doesn’t specify exactly how many days it can carry (though it does list 11.25 liters), most users report about three to four days.

We believe most people could probably squeeze another day or two if you pack strategically, but the Traverse admittedly doesn’t hold as much as it appears it should. The threaded design requires leaving about an inch of space at the top for the threads to function properly. 

The smaller configuration, at 6.75 liters, is good for up to four days of backpacking food. When stuffed with nothing but dehydrated Good-to-Go meals, the small configuration fits six meals, while the larger configuration fits sixteen.

Should You Buy the REI Traverse?

Because of its two-in-one design, the REI Traverse is a perfect budget buy for the versatile backpacker. It works great for trips from one to six days in length and nests into itself, so you never have to take up more pack space than necessary. 

Only time will tell if bears will learn to crack open this transparent trove. So far this burly, certified canister has been built to withstand the test. Although it’s a little tricky to use, it seals up nicely and feels secure.

That said, the REI Traverse is heavier than most. For ultralight thru-hikers trying to keep their pack weight down or who don’t need a canister for most of their hiking, there are better options available.

What Other Bear Canisters and Backpacking Food Storage Should You Consider?

See out full guide to food storage options for more lightweight or widely accepted alternatives.

BearVault BV500 Journey Review: BearVaults are the other transparent bear canister options. They are similarly see-through, but lighter weight and a little easier to open. The BV500 is closest to the REI Traverse’s large configuration.

BearVault BV450 Jaunt Review: The BV450 is the closest equivalent to the Traverse’s small configuration. It fits about the same amount of food, but is easier to use and remarkably lightweight. 

Bear Boxer Champ Review: The Bear Boxer is lighter than the REI Traverse and holds even more food than the Traverse’s large configuration. Thanks to its tank-like and opaque design, the Bear Boxer is widely approved and encouraged in the most regulated wildernesses like Yosemite and the Adirondacks.

Bottom Line

The popular BearVault BV 500 is a lightweight bear canister that provides an excellent capacity-to-weight ratio, fits easily inside most packs, and features a flat lid that can double as a camp stool or table. Its transparent walls allow for easy viewing of contents, and the bumps and ridges on the exterior help keep it secure under backpack straps.

Our frustration is the screw-top lid which can be tricky to operate, especially when the plastic stiffens in cold weather. Though the BearVault BV 500 isn’t specifically singled out, transparent cans are sometimes discouraged in areas with persistent, clever black bears.

Tested over thousands of trail miles in dense black bear country during peak hyperphagia season, the BV500 has proven to be a reliable choice for multi-day trips. For hikers seeking a lightweight, practical, and typically secure canister, it’s an excellent value. For the full picture, see our guide to the best bear canisters.

How We Tested

Our team has used the BV500 for at least 20,000 miles of backpacking over the years.

We tested the BV500 over weeks of backpacking trips in dense black bear country across the Rockies, including during peak hyperphagia season. We evaluated its ease of use, weight, capacity, and security, and compared it to other canisters. We also gathered insights from hundreds of personal accounts about its real-world effectiveness. 

Weight & Packability

The BV500 is a very reasonably weighted bear canister. At 2 pounds, 7.4 ounces, it achieves an excellent capacity-to-weight ratio. When hard-sided bear cans are required, this is one of our top choices for its light weight.

As one of BearVault’s larger models, the BV500 does take up noticeable pack space, although it’s still smaller than some heavier canisters on our list. It stands about 12.5 inches tall with an 8.75-inch diameter, fitting vertically in most packs or strapped horizontally outside.

Unlike completely smooth canisters, the BV500’s ridged and grooved surface makes it much easier to secure with backpack straps, so you won’t have to worry about it slipping throughout the day.

Ease of Use

The BV500’s ease of use depends on your finger strength and whether your fingers are cold. Its screw-top lid has two tabs that need to be pressed down while twisting the lid past the matching locking tabs on the body. That’s easier said than done on the BV500’s slippery plastic, especially in cold temperatures when the lid stiffens and fingers lose dexterity. This has been our main issue with this can for years. 

On the bright side, the transparent walls make it simple to see what’s inside without digging around, and the wide opening lets you reach in and retrieve or organize items easily.

Its wide base also ensures the bottom sits flat, and the completely flat lid provides a perfect surface for a table or stool. The canister’s height is ideal for both purposes.

Security

The BV500 is secure enough for most backcountry situations. The polycarbonate construction is thinner than that of other models in the lineup. 

The BV500 is still our go-to. Its gnaw-resistant plastic easily keeps out all other curious critters that lack the strength and ingenuity of a bear. For hikers seeking a lightweight, reliable canister capable of handling typical bear country conditions, the BV500 offers a good balance of practicality and protection.

We strongly recommend pairing any canisters with a Smellyproof bag to better deter curious woodland creatures.

Permit CompatibiLity

The BV500 is approved by both the IGBC and SIBBG, which is enough to meet the requirements of most backcountry zones, including Yosemite National Park. However, you should always double-check regulations for the specific area you are going to.

Capacity

The BV500’s 11.5-liter capacity provides enough space for about 4-6 days of food for one person, possibly more if you have really space-efficient meals and organize carefully. We managed to fit 20 dehydrated meal pouches inside the BV500. It’s one of the roomiest canisters on our list, and the wide opening allows for the use of a Smellyproof bag. 

Should You Buy the BearVault BV500 Journey?

The BearVault BV500 is perfect for hikers and backpackers seeking a reliable, lightweight, and versatile bear canister without the burden of a heavy tank. It’s best suited for solo adventurers, couples, or small groups traveling in bear country.

Its light weight and excellent capacity-to-weight ratio make it a strong choice for longer trips. Its flat lid and tall design also serve as a sturdy stool or table, adding extra usefulness at camp.

For those who like the screw-top lid and want a canister that balances usability, weight, and versatility, the BV500 delivers excellent value, providing peace of mind without unnecessary bulk.

What Other Bear Canisters and Backpacking Food Storage Should You Consider?

See our complete guide to backpacking food storage for many other options.

BearVault BV450 Jaunt Review: The BV450 is the smaller sibling of the BV500, holding about 3 to 4 days of food and packing down much smaller. It has the same screw lid enclosure and a handy table-like shape.

Grubcan Carbon 6.6 Review: Interested in the lightweight design of the BearVaults and looking to upgrade? The Grubcan Carbon is the lightest hard-sided canister we’ve discovered, and it even has a clever locking mechanism. It’s very expensive, but the rental program offers a great deal.

Smellyproof Bags Review: For less than the cost of a cup of coffee, these items are a no-brainer to significantly boost food security by reducing the smell of your food. Considering the stakes, it’s worth taking this step.