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Meet the 15 Amazing Products That Will Transform Your Next Hike

Hiking is an amazing pastime … but it’s better with the right gear.

ski poles in a mountain landscape with a hike headline and outdoor badge icon

By Hayley Helms

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This story is part of the 2023 Outdoor Awards. To see the full list of winners, click here.

When it comes to stretching your legs in the wilderness, preparedness is key. Whether you’re hiking that same three-mile loop behind your house for the umpteenth time or heading out for six months on the Pacific Crest Trail, bringing along the right gear to keep you protected and comfortable is non-negotiable.

Below, you’ll find a selection of gear that will keep you covered for almost any treks. A solid (yet see-through) rain jacket, long-distance ready hiking boots and no-nonsense sunglasses with enough style to get you from the trail to the bar are just a few of the trail-ready essentials that not only made it on our radar, but stayed there. Happy trails, y’all.

Climb any mountain with these rugged-yet-comfortable hiking shoes. A padded collar, ultra-grippy outsole and efficient speed lacing make these all killer, no filler.

READ MORE: Why These Are My Favorite Hiking Shoes

Pair classic styling with one-of-a-kind wood detailing and you get these shades. Durable enough to wear in any outdoor scenario, timeless enough to wear in any era… what more do you need in a pair of sunnies?

When the going gets tough, reach out to the experts. Before the going gets tough, reach for Garmin. This little satellite messenger is small enough to go on any adventure, and provides peace of mind that is immeasurable.

READ MORE: The Best Satellite Messengers For When You’re Off-Grid

A utilitarian, adventure-ready shirt that doesn’t sacrifice style? Sign us up. With a 30+ UPF rating, soft cotton blend fabric and perfectly placed pockets, you can protect yourself from the sun (without sacrificing your taste).

READ MORE: Best Sun Shirts to Beat the Heat

patagonia outdoor everyday shorts 4"Patagonia

Best Cargo-Style Hiking Short

Patagonia Outdoor Everyday Shorts (4-inch)

Any hiking short worth its salt will have plenty of useful pocketing — but Patagonia took things to the next level by integrating its cargo-inspired women’s hiking shorts with recycled nylon, spandex and a DWR finish. It packs durability, utility and plenty of colorways.

READ MORE: The Best Women’s Hiking Shorts for Taking on Trails

Utilizing more sustainable materials than any Breeze predecessors, the new-and-improved version still boasts the same stability, grip and waterproofing that hikers have come to love.

READ MORE: The Best Hiking Boots For Trekking

Darn Tough Hiker Boot Sock Cushion SocksREI

Best Upgrade Hiking Socks

Darn Tough Hiker Boot Sock Cushion Socks

Merino wool blend? Check. Cushioning for long days on the trail? Check. Enough height to work with any boot and prevent chafing or hot spots? Check. These socks are the pinnacle of hiking comfort and durability, and will keep those toes dry, warm and happy.

READ MORE: The Best Hiking Socks For Comfort On the Trail

Thanks to its ultralight and breathable fabric, this rain shell can be worn year-round, even in warmer months. So thin it’s see-through, the recycled polyester still manages to keep rain out while letting moisture that’s beneath the surface flow out.

READ MORE: The Best Rain Jackets to Keep You Dry

Feature-rich and dependable, the Talon 22 sets the bar for what it means to be a good hiking backpack. A supportive and breathable back panel, stretchy side pockets and considered internal organization form one unbeatable pack.

READ MORE: The Best Hiking Backpacks for Any Kind of Hiker

Hikers tall and short alike will appreciate these durable poles. Carbon fiber, EVA foam and cork make for a lightweight, high traction and low vibration pair of poles that can extend from 25 to 51 inches — and pack down to 25 inches when not in use.

READ MORE: The Best Trekking Poles and How to Use Them

This elevated hip pack provides hands-free fun, whether you’re trekking trails or running through the airport en route to your next adventure. Ample storage and a comfortable strap make this easy to wear all day, keeping essentials right where you need them.

READ MORE: The Best Hip Packs

Although its big toe loop is a little polarizing, the Z/2 is still one of the most iconic, popular hiking sandals on the market. That’s due to its bombproof sole, hard-wearing strap system and above all, comfort. Wear these for miles and your feet will still feel as fresh as at their first step.

READ MORE:The Best Hiking Sandals

The update to our favorite Beta Pant, the Alpha Pant is the luxury upgrade your bottom half deserves while exploring rough and unpredictable alpine terrain. These are waterproof, windproof, breathable and lightweight.

READ MORE: The Best Hiking Pants for Winter Treks

Hydro Flask 20 oz Coffee with Flex Sip LidREI

Best Travel Mug for Backpackers

Hydro Flask 20-Ounce Coffee with Flex Sip Lid

Morning hikers, take note: use this insulated bottle to keep that pre-hike coffee or tea nice and toasty in the car (or at the campsite) while you head out for your adventure. The lid is designed for easy, spill-free sipping and the double-wall insulation keeps your drink just the temp you like it.

READ MORE: The Best Travel Mugs We’ve Tried

Throw these gloves in your pack while hiking in cold or unpredictable weather, and you’ll be covered (literally) in most situations. These are smartphone compatible, which means you won’t have to expose your digits to dropping temps. Comfort, meet convenience.

READ MORE: The Best Touchscreen Gloves for Outdoor Use

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