Hikematic Blog

Get the most recent gear reviews, tips, and guides. Read our newest articles to stay up to date on all things related to camping and hiking.

Articles
best hiking stretches
Safety & Health Tips

10 Best Stretches to Prepare Your Body for a Long Hike

Before you hit the trails, stretching is key. It enhances flexibility and preps your joints, helping prevent injuries. A good pre-hike stretching routine warms up your body. Plus, it gets you mentally ready for the journey ahead. It’s a simple, free way to make your hike smoother and more fun. Studies show that stretching makes your joints move better and

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sustainable hiking
Leave No Trace & Environmental Tips

How to Plan an Eco-Friendly Hike: Tips for Sustainable Adventures

Planning a sustainable hike is vital for nature and our well-being. Eco-conscious trekking lets us enjoy nature with minimal environmental impact. This practice helps us feel closer to nature and live more responsibly. As of 2017, nearly 45 million people went hiking in the U.S., stressing the need for eco-friendly hiking habits. Time spent outdoors can lower stress, enhance creativity,

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best hiking multi-tools
Hiking Gear Reviews

Top Multi-Tools for Hikers: Compact and Essential Gear

Multi-tools are vital for any outdoor adventure. They offer many functions in one small item. This means hikers can do things like prep meals and fix gear with just one tool. It’s smart to pack a top multi-tool to be ready for anything on your hike. The Leatherman Wave+ is a great choice. It’s strong and has many features, such

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Ankle sprain prevention
Safety & Health Tips

How to Prevent Sprained Ankles While Hiking Rocky Trails

Hiking on rocky trails is thrilling and connects you with nature. However, it also increases the risk of spraining your ankle. Knowing how to avoid these injuries can help you enjoy your hike without pain. Rocky trails can be tricky due to roots, rocks, and uneven surfaces. They require ankles to be strong and flexible. Sprains occur when ankle ligaments

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best hiking gaiters
Hiking Gear Reviews

Best Hiking Gaiters to Keep Mud and Debris Out of Your Boots

Keeping mud and debris out of your boots is important on hikes. It makes your experience comfortable and enjoyable. The best hiking gaiters, like the Rab Muztag GTX, REI Co-op Backpacker Low, and Outdoor Research Helium, provide great protection. They keep your boots dry and clean, no matter the trail conditions. The Rab Muztag GTX is especially good at keeping

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winter hiking preparation
Hiking Fitness & Preparation

How to Warm Up Before a Winter Hike: Essential Tips

Setting off on a winter hike is thrilling yet demanding. I’ve learned that getting ready is key to enjoying your hike, especially with cold-sensitive conditions like Raynaud’s Syndrome. Facing the cold can be hard, but the right warm-up moves and gear can help you love the snowy paths. One winter, I hit the Appalachian Trail in the Smoky Mountains. Even

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