Hiking Gear

A Lighter, Better-Fitting Pack for Day Hikes
The Osprey Tempest 24 balances a light load, women’s-specific fit, and easy-access pockets. Compare five packs for hot trails, short…

6 Hiking Boots That Hold Their Grip on Rocky Trails
The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 Mid GTX leads for precise footing and sticky grip; compare six boots for scree,…

How to Get a Hiking Boot Fit That Works on Trail
Measure both feet late in the day, check toe room and heel hold, then use a downhill test to catch…

A Safe, Gradual Way to Break In Hiking Boots
A two-to-four-week process helps hiking boots soften without blisters. Follow fit checks, short walks, hill tests, and hot-spot fixes before…

Build a Rain-Ready Hiking Kit That Actually Works
A waterproof shell is only the start: this guide explains layers, ventilation, pack protection, footwear, and wet-weather tactics for safer…

Hydro Flask 32 Oz Leads Best Hiking Water Bottles
The Hydro Flask 32 oz Wide Mouth keeps ice through hot days and won't leak in your pack. Compare top…

Gps Guiding Leveling: Top Picks, Prices, and What to Avoid
GPS-guided land leveling is a precision-farming tool for grading real acreage, not a gadget for the backyard. The picks and…

Best family hiking gear: what kids actually need
Kids quit hiking when their feet hurt, they're cold, or hungry. Here's the essential gear that solves those problems without…

How to use trekking poles correctly
Ever wondered if one small habit could cut knee pain and boost balance on the trail? I tried a few…

Best windproof tent: Hilleberg Jannu tops our picks
The Hilleberg Jannu leads our windproof tent picks for serious storm protection, with alternatives like the North Face Mountain 25…

REI Passage 2 Leads Best Hiking Tents Under $200
Compare 10 durable hiking tents under $200, tested for weight, waterproofing, and real-world performance. Find your match for backpacking trips.

Best Hiking Gaiters for Mud, Rain and Trail Debris
Hiking gaiters compared for mud, rain, wet grass and trail grit, from full-height waterproof pairs to low debris gaiters, with…

Foldable Trekking Poles vs. Rigid Poles: Which One to Choose?
Choosing the right trekking poles is key to a great hike. Your choice between foldable and rigid poles depends on…

Top Hydration Packs for Staying Hydrated While Hiking
Hiking can make you very thirsty. But the right hydration pack will keep you feeling refreshed. Whether you’re exploring dry…

Insulated vs. Non-Insulated Jackets: What You Need for Hiking
When choosing hiking gear, the right outdoor clothing is crucial. Deciding between an insulated or non-insulated jacket is key. Each…

Best Tents for Heavy Rain: REI Base Camp 6 Leads
The REI Co-op Base Camp 6 tops our picks for heavy rain camping with storm-focused design that handles wind-driven rain…

Why a Headlamp Beats a Lantern on Night Hikes
A headlamp should lead your night-hiking setup: see when to add a handheld flashlight, why lanterns belong at camp, and…

Trekking Poles vs Hiking Sticks: When to Use Which
Trekking poles offer stability and load sharing for steep trails and heavy packs, unlike single hiking sticks for easy walks…
