Now that fall is here you might be wondering, ‘what’s the best Hiking gear I need?' Well, we're here to help. In truth, you don't need a lot to get outside and relax in nature. But if it’s time to upgrade your worn-out gear or you’re trying to make hiking a part of your routine this fall, we spoke with outdoor experts for their top recommended picks.
There are so many types of hiking products that it’s hard to narrow down everything you need. Luckily, you can consider a few factors to simplify your gear purchases and head out to the trails.
Jump to:
- Best Hiking Backpacks and Bags
- Best Hiking Footwear
- Best Hiking Safety Gear
- Best Hiking Snacks and Hydration Gear
- Other Hiking Gear
How to Choose the Best Hiking Gear
First and foremost you should determine your budget. Wesley Trimble, the communications and creative director at the American Hiking Society, recommends surveying your current gear and then prioritizing the essentials, such as hiking footwear, first aid kits, hydration bladders, and more. After you’ve collected these important pieces of gear (that are often essential camping gear too), you can splurge on less critical hiking gear and accessories.
Next, you should define your values. “Are you a person who values fashion and aesthetics, or is gear performance more important?” asks Trimble. Similarly: Do you value durability and long-lasting gear, or would you prefer ultralight gear that will help you cut weight but will wear out more quickly? Colleen Dawson, a Pacific Crest Trail thru-hiker and wilderness guide at Aspiro Adventure, tries to balance price and quality when buying hiking gear. She told SELF, “I mostly look for quality gear that I know will last but also won’t break the bank.” Andrew Marshall, managing editor of Backpacking Light and cofounder of Backpacking Routes adds, “Just like with cell phones, a lot of hiking gear is made to be replaced the next season when the newer, shinier model comes out.” If you’re purchasing staple pieces, like a daypack or hiking shoes, we recommend investing in high-quality products that are designed to be purchased once or twice rather than every year. Some brands, like Darn Tough and Osprey, have lifetime guarantees that speak to the longevity of its products.
Ultimately, when buying hiking gear, it’s important to consider how you’ll use each product. Will it solely be used for hiking or can it double as great backpacking gear? “Think about all of the ways you plan to use your gear, especially with your goals in mind,” Trimble recommends. “If you are just looking for an afternoon outdoor adventure at a local park, your use will be different from someone planning to take weeks off to travel around to all of the national parks in Arizona and Utah.” When you think about how you’ll use the gear, it’s easier to determine your pack size, type of hiking shoe, and which accessories to carry on your trips.
The Best Hiking Gear
Below, we’ve gathered a gear list of everything you need for a hike, like hiking shoes and water filters, as well as a few fun extras. We’ve included hiking essentials from brands such as Osprey, Black Diamond, and Garmin that you can buy from independent retailers or popular outdoor retailers like REI, Amazon, and Backcountry. So no matter where your outdoor adventures take you, these top picks from outdoor experts will get you prepared.
Best Hiking Backpacks and Bags
The best hiking backpacks (or daypacks) should be multifunctional and designed with features to help get you from A to Z.
Gregory Maya 22 Liter Backpack
This low-profile daypack is designed specifically for women for all-day comfort. (Gregory is also making strides in size inclusivity for outdoor gear, so this pack comes in plus-size!) The 3D foam back panel provides ventilation so you can avoid the dreaded back sweat on your warm weather excursions. Plus, the quick stow pockets on the shoulder harness and hip belt allow you to easily access items like sunglasses or hiking snacks. If you like to carry a lot of gear or layers, you may want to opt for the Maya 22L for a bit more space.
Courtesy of the brand / Amanda K Bailey
Patagonia Black Hole Pack 25L
If you're somewhat of an over-packer, the SELF Fave Black Hole backpack from Patagonia is up to the task. Our senior commerce writer has taken her Black Hole on countless climbing and hiking trips, and even when it's been filled to the gills it's easy to tote around, thanks to its adjustable shoulder and sternum straps. The main compartment is also water-resistant, in case you get caught in a drizzle.
Thrupack
Thrupack Summit Bum Slim
For hikers who don’t like to stop moving, fanny packs are a great option. ThruPack’s fanny packs allow quick access to items like snacks, maps, sunscreen, and cell phones. Although most daypacks come with a hip belt, the pockets are often too small to fit a phone. Dawson uses this fanny pack “since many women’s clothes don’t have adequately sized pockets.” It’s especially convenient for multi-day backpackers, so you don’t have to take off your heavy pack. You can wear it on your hip, across your chest, or over your shoulder—the versatility allows you to switch it up when you get sore.
Your feet need a good pair of hiking boots or hiking sneakers. If your feet are happy, they can take you to some incredible hiking destinations.
REI
Altra Superior 5 Trail-Running Shoes
“By far, the most crucial piece of gear for hiking is your footwear,” says Trimble. And the biggest misconception about hiking shoes? Many people think they need heavy, waterproof hiking boots. For most, trail runners (or even approach shoes) provide adequate support and traction for their hikes. Plus, they’re versatile enough that you’ll wear them regularly. Dawson used these shoes on both her thru-hikes of the Pacific Crest Trail and the Appalachian Trail, “as well as a wilderness guide,” she says. Trimble also loves Altra’s shoes because of the roomy toe box which allows your toes and feet to relax to their natural position. The deep lugs provide traction for rugged terrain, and the air mesh fabric dries quickly if you encounter creek crossings or puddles. However, everyone’s feet are different, so “focus on getting footwear that fits,” says Trimble.
REI
Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX Hiking Boots
That said, wet conditions or trails that take you across rivers really do call for a reliably waterproof shoe. Thanks to its high ankle cuff, Gore-Tex material, and grippy rubber sole, this pair from Salomon is widely regarded as one of the best hiking boot options for damp, puddle-ridden hikes.
Amazon
Teva Women's W Hurricane Xlt2 Sport Sandal
A hiking sandal can come in handy in the warmer months, especially if you want to splash through bodies of water or just don't want to deal with sweaty feet. Look for a pair with a secure, comfortable strap design and a sturdy, treaded outsole, like these Tevas (which happen to come in a range of fun colors, too).
Amazon
Darn Tough No Show Lightweight Hike Trek Sock
A good pair of socks can make or break your hike. As a hiker, you’ll want to look for merino wool socks (not cotton!) to reap the moisture-wicking benefits. Darn Toughs are “made in Vermont, are tightly woven to keep dust and grit off your feet, have cool patterns, and are made of merino wool blends for temperature and odor control,” says Marshall. They also have a lifetime guarantee, so you know they’re built to last! No-show socks are great to pair with trail runners, but if you wear hiking boots, you should opt for crew socks like the Darn Tough Hikers.
When it comes to hiking clothing, you might think that anything will do, but apparel designed specifically for outdoor wear and tear can help you feel more comfortable during your hike. Think protection from the sun, waterproofing, thermal liners for warmth, and more.
REI
The North Face Class V Ball Cap
Sun protection is one of the ten essentials, but you shouldn’t stop at sunscreen. When you’re hiking all day, you’ll want to protect your face and eyes from the extra UV rays. This lightweight, quick-drying hat from The North Face will keep your face shaded and shield your head with its UPF 40 fabric.
Outdoor Research
Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket
Getting caught in a downpour is rarely part of the plan, but when it does happen, you'll be glad to have a packable, lightweight rain jacket on-hand to slip on and stay dry. The bestselling Helium Rain Jacket from Outdoor Research is exceedingly light, breathable, and durable, with a waterproof and windproof design. It even comes with a built-in stuff sack that allows you to pack it into itself.
REI
Arc'teryx Gamma LT Pants
Hiking pants should be flexible, sweat-wicking, durable, and weather-resistant—and Arc'Teryx's Gamma pants check all those boxes. You can wear them through the wind and rain, and they'll hold up against abrasion if you have move through underbrush or between rocks. On that note, they're even tough enough to work as rock climbing pants.
Stio Pinion Down Pullover
Versatile apparel is indispensable on the trail, and this part-hoodie, part-down-jacket is an excellent example of a do-it-all layer. It's insulated with responsibly sourced, water-repellent down, and features a ripstop exterior so it doesn't feel flimsy. The pullover shape lends it a relaxed fit that makes it easy to wear over a couple of additional mid-layers. You can even pack it down into its kangaroo pocket and use it as a camp pillow. It's little wonder why it won a SELF Outdoor Award this year.
Backcountry
Patagonia Pack Out Tights
Whether you tend to hike in warmer climates or find pants to limit your range of movement, a pair of hiking leggings is a breathable, lightweight, wonderfully stretchy piece of apparel to have in your wardrobe. You can find sturdier, more utilitarian options on the market, but we like the Pack Out Tights for how well they work year-round: They're great as standalone bottoms in balmy weather, and they make a great base layer when the temps drop.
Dick's Sporting Goods
Patagonia Everyday Beanie
Even if you’re hiking during the summer, a warm beanie is crucial in mountain environments. If you’re hiking to a summit or trekking across a ridgeline, chilly weather or windy conditions can starkly contrast the sunshine and warmth in the valleys. This simple beanie, which comes in earthy colorways, is the perfect hiking accessory to carry when the temperatures might dip.
Amazon
Smartwool Liner Gloves
Gloves can be a game-changer for cold-weather hiking. These Smartwool liner gloves are thick enough to keep your hands warm when you’re hiking but lightweight enough that they take up minimal room in your pack. They come with touch-screen compatible material so that you can snap some photos from the trail without turning your fingers into icicles.
When it comes to essential safety tips for hiking carrying a first aid kit should be top of your list. Other important gadgets and tools include a GPS that doesn’t require internet, a power bank to keep that GPS and other devices running, lights if you end up hiking too early or too late in the day, and multitools that can be used for any outdoor trip.
REI
Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .5 Medical Kit
Adventure Medical kits are my go-to wilderness first aid because they’re compact yet full of supplies like gauze and bandages for wound care, moleskin for blisters, and medications for aches and pains or allergic reactions. Just leave yours at the bottom of your daypack so you never forget to bring it along.
Amazon
Goal Zero Flip 24 Power Bank
For anyone who uses topographic map apps like Gaia GPS to navigate while hiking, this one’s for you. This Goal Zero power bank has enough juice for two full phone charges and is portable enough to throw in any daypack—just be sure to bring a cord with you. No more stressing as you watch your battery drain on your hike!
Amazon
Garmin InReach Mini
If you want to navigate with GPS or send a check-in text when you’re in the backcountry, the Garmin inReach Mini gives you the tools you need. “Invest in a satellite messenger, learn how to use it, and bring it on every day-hike,” emphasizes Marshall. “Don’t count on your cell phone to get you out of a scrape. On many popular day-hiking trails in North America, you lose cell reception only a few minutes from your car.” This lightweight device is pricey, but many hikers will appreciate the added security in case of an emergency.
Backcountry
Lander Kiva Headlamp
Sometimes adventures don’t go as planned, so it’s important to carry a headlamp in case you end up hiking back to the trailhead in the dark. This LED headlamp is rechargeable, waterproof, and offers 40 hours of battery life on low. The design is slim and comfortable, so it’s just as useful for running as it is for hiking. It comes in both black and pink—but the brighter colorway is easier to find in the dark.
Leatherman
Leatherman Squirt PS4 Multitool
Okay let’s face it—most multitools are overkill for hiking. You don’t often need three types of screwdrivers and two pairs of pliers when you’re in the backcountry. But the Leatherman Squirt PS4 provides enough bang for your buck in a lightweight package. You’ll definitely put the knife, nail file, and mini scissors to use on the trail, and it’s also handy enough for projects around the house.
Amazon
Sabre Frontiersman Bear Spray (7.9 oz.)
Hopefully, you don't have to use it, but if you do encounter a bear that acts aggressively or even charges at you while hiking in bear country, a bear spray like this 2% capsaicin product can help deter it and keep you safe. It even comes with an inert training unit, so you can get the hang of using the spray before you absolutely need to.
Best Hiking Snacks and Hydration Gear
You’ll also want to make sure you stay replenished on your journey, so packing hiking snacks for energy and hydration gear like water bottles is key, especially if you'll be outside for a while.
Amazon
Gnarly Nutrition Electrolyte Mix
If you hike long distances or in hot temperatures, hydration powders replenish essential electrolytes—like sodium, potassium, and calcium—that you lose when you sweat. Gnarly’s Hydrate comes in delicious flavors like ruby red grapefruit and orange pineapple, so you won’t struggle to stay hydrated on your hike. It’s made with clean ingredients and is low in sugar, making it easy on the stomach when you get your heart rate up.
RapidPure
RapidPure Scout Inline Purifier
“For longer hikes, and if I know a reliable water source is along my route, I prefer to filter water, so I don't have to carry all of the water from the beginning,” says Trimble. He uses this RapidPure water filter because it's lightweight, has a good flow rate for its size, and still works after a freeze (most don’t). “I usually stick it in my pack with an extra hydration reservoir because it’s nice to know I can always fill up“ says Trimble.
REI
Osprey Hydraulics LT Reservoir
One of the biggest questions to ask yourself is whether you prefer hydration bladders or water bottles. Reservoirs are lightweight and allow you to drink water more frequently, but they are sometimes finicky and the hose can freeze in cold temps. Still, the simplicity of hydration reservoirs is hard to resist—you don't have to stop walking in order to sip. This Osprey 2.5L is the perfect size to fit in most daypacks, and the slide-top closure minimizes spills and leakage. And, the entire system disassembles for easy cleaning.
