About Us

At GearForGrit, we believe adventure starts long before you step onto a trail or set up camp. It begins with preparation — and preparation means having the right gear. Our mission is to make sure every outdoor enthusiast — whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a first-time camper — feels confident in the equipment they carry.

How did we get here?

How We Stay Independent?

At GearForGrit, we participate in affiliate programs, which means we may earn a small commission when you buy through our links. This income helps us keep testing and reviewing products — but it never influences our opinions.
We recommend only what we’ve tested, trusted, and would use ourselves.

  • At GearForGrit, we believe that preparation and the right mindset turn every challenge into an adventure worth remembering.
    Ethan Cross
    Founder & Chief Adventurer

What We Do

Person working on a laptop — remote work and digital nomad lifestyle.
Expert Reviews

We test, research, and evaluate gear across categories like hiking, camping, climbing, survival, and fitness.

Person speaking in a mic during an event — public speaking and communication concept.
Buying Guides

Simplified guides that explain exactly what to look for in your gear, helping you choose confidently without confusion.

Adventure Insights Real-world tips, safety advice, and field-tested insights to make every outdoor journey more enjoyable, safer, and smarter.
Adventure Insights

Real-world tips, safety advice, and field-tested insights to make every outdoor journey more enjoyable, safer, and smarter.

Who are we

Meet our team

At GearForGrit, we’re more than just gear reviewers — we’re explorers, hikers, survivalists, and storytellers driven by one shared belief: the right gear and mindset can turn every challenge into an unforgettable adventure.

Ethan Cross, front view businessman working from home
Ethan Cross

Founder & Chief Adventurer

Vanessa Ridge

Senior Gear Tester

Kenneth Pettree

Content Strategist

Crystal Leal

Digital Designer & Photographer

What Our Readers Say

Real experiences from outdoor enthusiasts who trust GearForGrit to guide their adventures.

  • I’ve followed dozens of outdoor blogs, but GearForGrit stands out for one reason — honesty. The gear reviews aren’t sugar-coated; they’re practical, detailed, and based on real use.
    Customer headshot for testimonial — happy GearForGrit outdoor gear user.
    Emily Carter
    Denver, Colorado
  • I’m a weekend survivalist who loves testing gear, and GearForGrit has become my go-to resource. You can tell these folks actually use the gear they talk about — that’s what makes them credible.
    Portrait of a happy GearForGrit customer providing a testimonial outdoor.
    Marcus Hill
    Bozeman, Montana
  • GearForGrit feels like having a friend who’s already tested everything you’re thinking of buying. I love that they combine product knowledge with real outdoor experience.
    Woman hiker wearing outdoor gear on a forest trail — hiking and adventure lifestyle.
    Sarah Nguyen
    Bend, Oregon

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