About Terrain and Carry
Terrain & Carry grew out of time spent walking in real places — where decisions about footwear, packs, and equipment have consequences that marketing language doesn’t account for.
Outdoors gear is often presented as if it exists in isolation: lighter is always better, more features are always useful, and “best” is a fixed category. In practice, none of that holds up once you’re several hours into uneven ground, changing weather, or unfamiliar terrain.
This site exists to think more carefully about those decisions.
Why this site exists
Most people who spend time on foot outdoors develop a quiet competence over time. They learn what works for them, what doesn’t, and where trade-offs really lie. Unfortunately, much of the advice online doesn’t reflect that lived experience.
Terrain & Carry was created to fill that gap.
The aim is not to chase trends or review every new product, but to examine how gear behaves when it is actually used — over distance, under load, and across different terrain types.
The perspective behind the writing
The writing on Terrain & Carry comes from someone who values:
- durability over novelty
- comfort over claims
- understanding over optimisation
Gear is assessed in context:
- who it’s for
- where it works well
- where it doesn’t
- and why those differences matter
There is no single “best” solution — only better decisions for particular conditions.
Independence and recommendations
Some of the links on this site are affiliate links. If a reader chooses to buy through one of them, Terrain & Carry may earn a small commission at no additional cost.
That model supports the time required to research and write carefully.
What it does not change is the editorial approach:
- products are not reviewed because they are profitable
- recommendations are not softened to protect brands
- omissions are as intentional as inclusions
If something isn’t suitable for real-world use, it won’t be recommended — regardless of popularity.
How to read Terrain & Carry
The articles here are written to be read slowly.
They are not meant to be skimmed for quick answers, and they don’t assume that every reader wants the same outcome. Instead, they aim to provide enough context for you to make your own decisions with more confidence.
If you’re new to the site, the Start Here page explains how the articles are structured and how to approach gear decisions using the Terrain & Carry framework.
A final note
Terrain & Carry is not a destination. It’s a reference point.
The real work happens outside — on trails, in changing weather, with weight on your back and time on your feet.
If this site helps you think a little more clearly before you set out, then it’s doing its job.