Hikers And Campers Swear By This Trusted Multi-Tool Brand For Outdoor Adventures

Many people are familiar with the Leatherman multitool, but few know where it came from. According to company lore, a man named Tim Leatherman took a trip to Europe with his wife, Chau, in 1973. During their travels, the couple rented a car that suffered regular mechanical issues. Ultimately, their need to make constant repairs led to an idea: What if he designed a kind of Swiss Army knife that incorporated regular tools — like a flathead screwdriver, Phillips head, and more? Most importantly, could he add a pair of pliers, one of the most useful items in a mechanic's toolbox, to the folding design? 

A decade later, Leatherman had a patent in hand and a trusted business partner. And by the 1990s, a refined version of the Leatherman had become a favorite among mechanics and maintenance workers.

That said, the multitool isn't just made for them — it's also become a go-to for hikers and campers alike. In fact, across online forums like Reddit, users consistently praise the Leatherman for its versatility and practicality. Beyond that, many note that models like the Leatherman Skeletool are especially handy for mountain activities — especially thanks to features such as pliers, a serrated knife, and a built-in carabiner that makes it easy to clip onto a backpack or harness. Meanwhile, others highlight the Leatherman Signal, pointing out that it was designed specifically with hiking and camping in mind, featuring additions like a whistle and fire starter for backcountry use.

In terms of design, most people are drawn to the Leatherman's holdable build — which feels more like a "handle" than the narrow Swiss Army knife. As a result, the company has released scores of different models over the years. Today, the popular Leather Signal boasts 19 different tools, many of which could prove to be useful in the backwoods. For about $140, customers can carry around a knife, saw, can opener, and, yes, even pliers. The tool also includes an emergency whistle — an important item that could save your life while solo camping. All of these features fold neatly into a rectangle that's smaller than most smartphones. Plus, weighing in at just 7.2 ounces, it won't add much bulk to your pack.

Although Leatherman is one of the most popular brands of multitool, numerous rivals have popped up over the years. The most famous competitor is Gerber, which has been manufacturing knives since the 1930s and started developing its own multitool design in 1991. Starting from around $90 for a simple model, Gerber's multitools offer similar functions. And while Leatherman and Gerber each create excellent products, you can also find a range of even more affordable alternatives — with the caveat that you may get what you pay for.

That said, it's worth noting not all expensive gear upgrades are necessary for the average hiker. For most people, even a selection of affordable Costco items can greatly improve your camping experience. Nonetheless, the Leatherman is still a useful tool to have — and many of its other accoutrements will likely come in handy in your garage or everyday life.