Ladies and gentlemen, warm weather is fast approaching and so are longer days. That means it's time to get outside and enjoy Mother Nature's many blessings. Of course, epic outdoor adventures become even more fun with good company and the right equipment.
If you're like me, having the latest technology not only makes the trails more attractive, but it's also a cheeky way to let your friends know that you're more Gorp than them. Plus, you don't necessarily need to break the bank to get fully equipped: a sturdy trail-ready first aid kit starts at just $14, and one of my favorite collapsible rain shells costs $99, which which is manageable.
Here are seven essential hiking gear I recommend for the ultimate day in the wilderness, from appropriate outerwear and footwear to the perfect hydration pack.
1. A good pair of hiking shoes
Since your feet will likely be put to good use, I recommend first getting a pair of best hiking shoes or the best trail running shoes. For the first, consider options like Scarpa Rush 2 Mid GTX Or Salewa Pedroc Pro PowerTex Mid PTX. Both great ankle support, traction and water resistance in Chic Italian designed packaging.
Want something a little more wallet-friendly? I'm still testing Amazon's Favorite $50 Boots But so far so good.
If trail running shoes are more your scene, consider it Hoka Speed Goat 5 Or Nike Pegasus Trail 4, both of which are excellent all-rounders for tackling trails and pavement. The latter is completely waterproof thanks to its mid Gore-Tex.
2. Proper Base Layers
Lightweight, breathable clothing that doesn't retain moisture is the ideal base layer for outdoor summer fun. While synthetic fibers have long reigned supreme in this area, ultralight merino wool is gaining popularity among many types of outdoor clothing. And for good reason, it's everything I mentioned above, plus, merino wool clothes are often lighter than their synthetic counterparts.
Smartwool has a ton of great summer clothing Merino Wool Base Layers. However, my favorite merino wool T-shirts come from Merino Ridgea small family-owned brand based in Mammoth Lakes, California.
3. A waterproof and foldable shell
For everyday hikes, it's always a good idea to pack some sort of rain protection if the skies are turning your way; the lighter and more compact it is, the better. And the REI Rainier Rain Jacketone of my favorite affordable cases, does the job perfectly.
This $99 jacket offers impressive water resistance with fully sealed seams, an adjustable hood, and a thick durable water repellent (DWR) coating – it even survived two minutes of consecutive soaking in my shower.
For something even lighter, consider the six-ounce Outdoor Research Helium Jacket – it too survived our shower test. And if you need help waterproofing your existing hull, here's how to do it like the pros and never get wet again.
4. A GPS-enabled watch with maps
There are many GPS-enabled smartwatches that can help you track, map, and evaluate your physical activity during and after a hike. THE Apple Watch Ultra2for example, contains tons of applications and tools adapted to hikers including detailed topographical maps and easy ways to find your way back to a trailhead.
However, I find Garmin wearables to be the bee's knees when it comes to outdoor GPS location tracking. Additionally, you can get a Garmin GPS-equipped smartwatch, like the Precursor 55for less than $200.
Most recent Garmin Forerunner 165 is another solid option for keeping tabs on outdoor adventures, including the basics like heart rate, altitude, and pace, as well as tracking your route. It also provides a wealth of recovery information for those extra-long hikes.
5. A water bottle or hydration pack
THE best water bottles are available in a wide range of varieties, including trendy all-metal vacuum insulated options, like the ever-popular Thermos Stanley and the Hydro Flask, my must-have. You also have lighter plastic options like Nalgenes as well as super squeezable water bottles like the Hydrapak soft bottle.
THE best hydration packs tend to look a little more uniform than water bottles. Our first choice is the Salomon Active Skin 8 but for something a little more affordable, check out the $79 Grégory Nano 18.
6. A sturdy first aid kit
Accidents happen and while you can't predict the future, you can get a compact and well-equipped first aid kit. I'm a big fan of Mountain Series Hiker Medical Kit Adventure medical kits. It costs around $50 and contains all the basic information for minor injuries. Additionally, it can also be easily attached to a bag or bag and weighs less than a pound.
For something even more affordable and compact, this $14 Hart Outdoor Day Hiking First Aid Kit is quite difficult to discuss. It's also a good backup option to leave in your car or bike bag.
7. Binoculars
Do you need a pair of waterproof binoculars to fully enjoy your next outdoor adventure? No, but if you're hiking somewhere with a big payoff at the end (i.e. a view), a good pair of binoculars can make that experience even more rewarding.
I am really in love with the Nocs Standard Issue 8×25 waterproof binoculars. Priced at $95 and often on sale for less, they're a great entry point to bird watching, animal watching, and generally enjoying all the views nature has to offer. They are also available in a wide range of aesthetic colors and weigh little.
