My Favorite Hiking Gear
Investing in and picking out hiking gear can be an overwhelming and expensive endeavor! But, being equipped with quality, essential gear can drastically improve your hiking experience.
Read on below for a list of my all-time favorite hiking gear!
Boots
My tried and true hiking boots are the Vasque Monolith Ultradry (which are no longer available), but the most similar option on the market is the Vasque Breeze LT NTX. These are a durable and comfortable mid-cut hiking boot with waterproof technology that helps keep feet dry in all conditions.
Socks
Merino wool or wool blend socks are the best! Wool helps keep feet dry from sweat and is naturally antimicrobial. I prefer ankle or crew cut socks, which help provide protection against skin-to-boot abrasion. A few of my favorites are WildlyGoods Merino Wool Crew Socks, Merinowool Merino Cushioned Quarter Socks, and REI Co-op Merino Wool Midweight Hiking Socks.
Backpack
The Osprey Tempest 20 is the perfect day-hiking backpack. I’ve also used it while hiking, biking, and traveling. It comes in two sizes (XS/S and M/L) so you can get the perfect torso fit. This backpack has a suspended back panel for breathability, attachments for trekking poles, bike helmet, and ice ax, and chest harness and hip belt.
Trekking Poles
Some hikers love using trekking poles to help with stability and take some stress off the knees during steep hikes. If you’re looking to give hiking poles a try, the Trailbuddy Gear Trekking Poles are a great option. These are a collapsable, lightweight, and affordable hiking pole set.
Water Bottle
Water is a necessity for any hike. Always bring more water than deemed necessary. Most often, I use a Yeti 26oz Water Bottle because it is large, insulated, and keeps water cold all day long.
Rain Jacket
It’s important to be ready for any weather conditions while hiking! A rain shell helps protect you against the rain and wind. Made with TEK waterproof technology, LL Bean’s Trail Model Rain Jacket is comfortable and keeps you dry. It packs down small into its own pocket and has an adjustable hood and cuffs.
Insulated Jacket
An insulated jacket is a must for cold weather hiking. Eddie Bauer’s CirrusLite Down Jacket is my favorite down jacket for cold days outside (without being overly warm or bulky). Made with 650-fill premium down, it is light, warm, and easy to pack.
Base Layer
Base layers help provide extra insulation for cold days. I wear REI Co-op’s Midweight Long-Sleeve Base Layer Top on cold days while walking the dog, hiking, skiing, you name it. These base layer tops provide warmth, are moisture-wicking, and easy to layer!
Water Resistant Pants
Hiking pants should be comfortable and durable! I particularly like Kuhl’s Transcendr Skinny Pants because of their fit and stretchy, breathable, and water-resistant qualities. In the warmer months, I still recommend wearing pants on trails with thick vegetation or rock scrambling, to protect your skin from cuts and scrapes.
Sunglasses
Similar to your skin, your eyes are susceptible to UV damage for sun rays. Sunglasses help protect your eyes and make being in bright sun more comfortable. Sunski’s Dipsea Polarized Sunglasses have become my favorite shades for hiking and outdoor activities. They are so lightweight and comfortable to wear all day long.
Pee Cloth
As a female hiker, a pee cloth is a game changer! Kula Cloth is a reusable antimicrobial pee cloth made of advanced silver-infused textiles. The printed side is waterproof and the black side is absorbent. Plus, there’s a snap that allows you to hang the cloth from the exterior of your backpack. It dries fast, it’s odor free, and there’s no need to pack in and pack out toilet paper. When you get home, just throw it in the washer!
Insect & Tick Repellent
Not only are insects and ticks annoying pests, but they also transmit diseases to humans. Protect yourself year-round with repellent. Ben's 30 Tick & Insect Repellent Spray lasts up to 7 hours and is fragrance free. It’s my favorite repellent!
I hope this list of my favorite hiking gear helps you find some clarity on which hiking gear is worth investing in! I personally purchased, love, and use all of these products on a regular basis.
