Hale is a fitness junkie and adventure addict; fueling his passion for Type II fun with an ever-growing list of hobbies and pastimes. His jack-of-all trades approach to activities has led him to try a variety of activities over the years - as of now this list includes SCUBA diving, sailing, backpacking, biking, CrossFit, triathlons, and his favorite, rock climbing. With all these passions it's safe to say that Hale is a clinically diagnosed gear junkie. He loves finding new pieces of gear to add to his collection, almost as much as he loves finding new hobbies.
Hale cemented fitness as a part of his identity during his time as a US Army Ranger, and following his time in the service traded boots for trail runners and took to the mountains and oceans for adventure. Now, he pursues fitness for fun, whether that's training for an Olympic Triathlon, competing in the CrossFit open, or preparing for an extended backpacking & climbing trip somewhere remote. Hale's journey to GearLab began as a reader, avidly scouring review after review to help outfit one such adventure. Falling in love with the meticulous analysis and evaluations prompted him to join the team.
When he's not working in front of a computer, you can find Hale climbing with his partner and wife Kate, or lounging with their two Weimaraner's, Skye & Storm.
Author Profile
Hale Milano
Review Editor
Showing 1-15 of 33 by Hale Milano

The 10 Best Backpacks
We're always looking for the best backpacks to fuel our adventures. We tested hundreds of models this year and these...
Top Pick
Adidas Defender Small Review
A decent duffel ideal for the gym or game that won't break the bank either...
Top Pick
Osprey Transporter Review
With a backpack harness system whose comfort is unmatched among other duffel bags, this high performer stands out for...
Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks
If you are searching for the perfect travel backpack, you've come to the right place. We have found the top 16...
10 Best Travel Bags
Our team of travel-hungry experts has spent more than a decade testing the top travel bags for every trip, expedition...
The Best Messenger Bags
Whether you need a bag for your commute or for your job, we've taken the top 8 models and tested them in as many...
The Best Dumbbells
Looking for the best dumbbells? We exhaustively researched the market before our experts bought and tested the top 16...
Editors' Choice
The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel Review
This duffel scores extremely well thanks to plenty of internal pockets and storage features for keeping life organized...
The Best Weight Vests
On the hunt for a way to enhance your workout routine? We purchased the best vests for a comprehensive, sidey-by-side...
Editors' Choice
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Review
This eye-catching bag is incredibly easy to live out of for a long weekend or more, thanks to clever organization...
Editors' Choice
Thule Subterra 2 Convertible Review
This sleek bag hauls plenty of clothes and travel essentials with plenty of style and versatility for any kind of trip...
Best Buy
Osprey Daylite Carry-On 35 Review
This model is an above-average bag at a below-average price, offering up great value and good performance for your...
How to Choose the Right Messenger Bag
Wondering if a messenger bag is right for you? This article highlights the best uses of this bag style to help you...
Editors' Choice
REP Rubber Coated Hex Review
One of our favorite dumbbells for garage gyms thanks to a knurled rubber coating across the handle that was...
Top Pick
Titan Fitness Loadable Olympic Handles Review
Got plenty of Olympic weight plates and looking to add a set of loadable dumbbells to your gym? These are a great...
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