Ben Dawson, Author at CleverHiker

Ben Dawson

Gear Analyst

Ben is a full-time traveler, father, and adventure journalist/photographer based in the western United States. He has a passion for conservation and utilizes his writing to help make the outdoors a more accessible space for all types of people.

He began his career in the outdoor industry by running the day-to-day operations of a popular hunting and fishing network but slowly transitioned out of the office and into the field. Ben has over ten years of experience working in the outdoor industry. He has written for numerous outdoor publications, helped film and produce a video gear review series, and has rigorously tested all kinds of outdoor gear.

He has authored three guidebooks for Falcon Guides covering a range of topics from how to build your own van and live nomadically to hiking with kids in Glacier National Park.

Articles by Ben Dawson

Best Baby Backpack Carriers for Hiking of 2026

10 baby backpack carriers lineup up in front of a wood pile with pine trees in the background.

Best Baby Backpack Carriers for Hiking of 2026

Author

Explore the top baby backpack carriers ideal for hiking and outdoor adventures. We have evaluated the leading models based on comfort, durability, features, and value to identify the best options tailored to each unique requirement.

Mountain Hardwear Mineral King All-Season Tent Review

A person sitting at the open doorway of the tent in snowy conditions, pulling a large backpack into the vestibule while wearing winter boots and a warm jacket.

Mountain Hardwear Mineral King All-Season Tent Review

Author

This is a winter-ready tent with burly fabrics and a proven layout, creating an approachable, high-value option for winter and shoulder-season adventures.

The North Face Mountain 25 Four-Season Tent Review

The North Face Mountain 25 with its vestibule door open, revealing the yellow inner tent and a snow-covered campsite around it.

The North Face Mountain 25 Four-Season Tent Review

Author

A rugged, expedition-ready 4-season tent built for harsh alpine conditions, offering outstanding strength, improved ventilation, and long-term durability for serious winter use, though its heavy weight limits versatility.

Mountain Hardwear Trango 2 Four-Season Tent Review

The Mountain Hardwear Trango2 4-season tent covered in snow on a winter camping trip

Mountain Hardwear Trango 2 Four-Season Tent Review

Author

A rugged, storm-ready shelter built for harsh winter conditions, this tent delivers excellent durability and dependable weather protection. Ideal for demanding adventures where strength and security matter most.

Decathlon Simond MT100 Down Puffer Review

A person wearing the olive Simond MT100 Down Jacket walks through bright yellow fall foliage, showcasing the jacket in seasonal use.

Decathlon Simond MT100 Down Puffer Review

Author

An affordable, lightweight, packable 3-season down jacket that delivers excellent warmth and value for everyday wear or backcountry adventures.

Black Diamond Deploy Down 0.5 Full Zip Hoody Review

A man wearing the Black Diamond Deploy Down 0.5 Full Zip Hoody zips up the front of the jacket while hiking through a colorful fall forest.

Black Diamond Deploy Down 0.5 Full Zip Hoody Review

Author

Featherlight yet impressively warm, this ultralight down jacket delivers serious performance for high-output adventures, perfect for hikers, climbers, and skiers who want warmth without the weight.

Men’s adidas Terrex Skychaser AX5 Mid GORE-TEX CLIMAWARM+ Boot Review

$A pair of Adidas Terrex Skychaser AX5 Mid GORE-TEX hiking boots worn outdoors, resting on a tree stump with visible mesh upper and orange laces.$

Men’s adidas Terrex Skychaser AX5 Mid GORE-TEX CLIMAWARM+ Boot Review

Author

Supportive, winter-ready, and built for speed, this boot is a solid choice for hikers who want dependable protection without sacrificing comfort or agility.

Men’s Oboz Katabatic LT Mid GTX Hiking Boot Review

Wide shot of both feet wearing the Oboz Katabatic LT Mid boots, posed on logs with a forested mountain backdrop in golden hour lighting.

Men’s Oboz Katabatic LT Mid GTX Hiking Boot Review

Author

Lightweight, waterproof, and built for moving fast on the trail, this boot offers solid support and comfort without slowing you down.

Best Insoles for Hiking of 2026

Person holding a fan of colorful hiking insoles outdoors with trees in the background.

Best Insoles for Hiking of 2026

Author

Tired feet holding you back? These insoles might be the most underrated upgrade to your hiking setup.

Men’s KEEN Hightrail Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot Review

Close-up of boot outsole on snow-covered log, showing mud-clearing lug pattern.

Men’s KEEN Hightrail Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot Review

Author

A mid-height hiking boot with plush, high-rebound cushioning—perfect for muddy, rugged trails and multi-day treks where comfort and stability matter most.

The North Face Summit Series Breithorn Down Jacket Review

a man in a blue jacket standing in a field. He's facing somewhat away from the camera and lookign off into the distance.

The North Face Summit Series Breithorn Down Jacket Review

Author

North Face knows how to make a warm, mid-weight down hoodie designed for winter adventures. It’s comfortable, durable, is solidly weather resistant and not super bulky.

Five Ten Freerider Kids Mountain Bike Shoe Review

Close-up of worn Five Ten Freerider kids shoes sitting on sandy ground near a lake.

Five Ten Freerider Kids Mountain Bike Shoe Review

Author

These shoes offer excellent grip, protection, and versatility for young riders who split time between biking, hiking, and everyday adventures on and off the trail.

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