Hiking Gear: The Best Shoes, Backpacks, Safety Equipment, and Accessories
Hiking Gear
As the hiking season arrives, it’s crucial to equip yourself with the best gear to ensure safety, comfort, and enjoyment on the trails. This article explores the essential hiking gear you need, categorized into four main sections: shoes, backpacks, safety equipment, and accessories.
Best Shoes
Selecting the right footwear is essential for any trail adventure, and the perfect pair provides support, traction, and comfort. See our picks for a number of different categories of trail shoes below.
Best Waterproof Shoe
Waterproof shoes are indispensable for hikers who navigate wet terrain. The Breakwater Supply Halocline Waterproof Shoe offers exceptional waterproof protection while providing optimal grip and stability.
Breakwater Supply Halocline Waterproof Shoe
The Halocline features 100% waterproof protection, easy adjustability, and a sleek design. It’s a first of its kind as it features a one-piece wraparound neoprene upper, which safeguards it against water seeping in from any stitched seams. These are a versatile, all-purpose shoe that is good both in the summer, and the winter, as the neoprene upper provides some insulation as well.
- Waterproof upper with TPU overlays for protection
- Lightweight
- Slip-resistant, grippy rubber sole
- Comfortable
- Slip-on construction with 360-degree bungee for adjustability
- Simple, sleek design with reflective elements
Best Trail Running Shoe
For those who prefer a faster pace, the Brooks Cascadia 17 stands out. It combines lightweight construction with ample cushioning, making it ideal for trail running.
Brooks Cascadia 17
An incredible trail runner, the Brooks Cascadia is lightweight with a rugged rock plate underfoot, has TPU overlays for protection, and has an extra wide midsole platform for stability.
- Rock plate for underfoot protection
- TPU overlays for upper protection
- Drainage ports
- Comfortable DNA Loft foam midsole
- Lightweight (9.8oz / 288g)
- Men’s and women’s versions
- Rock plates are sometimes a little stiff
Best Hiking Boot
When tackling rough terrains, the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof delivers outstanding ankle support, durability, and comfort.
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
True hikers know that a Merrell hiking boot is as good as it gets. The Moab 3 comes in waterproof and non-waterproof options, with a chunky look and a Vibram rubber outsole.
- Classic chunky hiking boot
- Old-school durability and construction
- Comfortable and rugged
- Grippy Vibram outsole
- Waterproof membrane
- Comes in low and mid versions, women’s and men’s
- A little dated, not technologically advanced
Best Hiking Sandal
For warm-weather hikes and water crossings, the KEEN Newport H2 is an excellent choice, offering both comfort and protection.
Keen Newport H2
The tried and true Keen Newport H2 is a strap-based adventure sandal with a bungee lace down the middle for easy adjustability. The rubber toe-guard offers excellent protection on the trail, or through the water.
- Excellent toe protection
- Fits great for wide feet
- Easily adjustable
- Durability is sometimes an issue
Best Water Shoe
Designed for wet conditions, the Merrell Hydro Moc excels in keeping your feet comfortable during wet wading.
Merrell Hydro Moc
The reason we give the Merrell Hydro Moc the nod over the classic Croc is that the Hydro Moc has more drain holes and a less boxy profile. The Hydro Moc is built for the water.
- Plenty of drainage
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- No protection underfoot
- Get ready for that sandal tan!
Best Backpacks
A reliable backpack is key to carrying all your essentials comfortably and efficiently. Just make sure it can hold up to the elements, as the trail is much different than the sidewalk.
Best Lightweight Backpack
The Osprey Exos 48 is a top pick for minimalist hikers who need a lightweight yet sturdy option for long treks.
Osprey Exos 48
An ultralight, top-loading hiking backpack with plenty of adjustability and great hip pockets.
- Ultralight
- Plenty of space (48L)
- Extra comfy
- Great hip pockets and handles
- Hydration bladder compartment
- Funky water bottle pockets (traditional ones would be nice)
- Hydration bladder is same pocket as laptop/tablet
Best Waterproof Backpack
For wet environments, the Breakwater Supply Fogland 25L CORDURA provides exceptional waterproof protection (IP68) while remaining versatile, durable, and comfortable.
Breakwater Supply Fogland 25L CORDURA Waterproof Backpack
The Breakwater Supply Fogland 25L waterproof backpack is the gold standard of waterproof backpacks, featuring superior IP68 waterproof protection, airtight compartments, and rugged, yet comfortable, construction.
- 100% waterproof and submersible
- Lightweight (under 2 lbs)
- Mesh water bottle pockets on sides
- Comfortable straps with fast-drying padding
- Airtight main compartment with laptop sleeve, and smaller airtight front pocket
- Front buckle strap for wet or bulky items
Best Sling Bag
Ideal for shorter hikes, the Waterfly Crossbody Sling Backpack offers a simple, easy-to-carry solution that’s affordable.
Waterfly Crossbody Sling Backpack
The Waterfly Crossbody is a popular affordable sling bag with side mesh pockets and a pocket on the front. It’s a great choice that won’t break the bank.
- Plenty of storage and pockets
- Can be worn on either side
- Front zip pocket on strap
- Lots of color options
- Low cost means cheap materials. Durability is sometimes an issue.
Best Hiking Hip Pack
The AiRunTech No Bounce Hydration Belt is perfect for day hikes, offering ample space for essentials while allowing freedom of movement, and it features a water bottle holder.
AiRunTech No Bounce Hydration Belt
We’re partial to hip packs with water bottle holders, and the AiRunTech is a simple, lightweight, sleek hip pack with a neoprene pocket and reflective elements for visibility.
- Lightweight
- Water bottle holder
- Holds large phones
- Very affordable
- Not waterproof
- Not built for rugged use
Best Camping Backpack
For multi-day trips, the Deuter Aircontact Lite 65+10 is a robust choice that combines comfort, capacity, and durability.
Deuter Aircontact Lite 65+10
The Deuter Aircontact line is the gold standard of trekking backpacks, and the Aircontact Lite 75L (65L + 10L) is a beast of a backpack with an exceptionally comfortable fit.
- Lightweight for a trekking backpack (5+ lbs / 1990g)
- Plenty of compartments
- Hip pockets
- Well-fitting straps
- Aircontact system reduces sweating
- Expensive
- While lightweight for its class, it’s not that lightweight overall
Best Safety Equipment
Safety should never be compromised on the trail. Here are the essential safety items every hiker should carry.
Best Compact First Aid Kit
Compact and comprehensive, the Breakwater Supply Essential All-Purpose First Aid Kit is perfect for quick access to essential medical supplies.
Breakwater Supply Essential All-Purpose First Aid Kit
A lightweight, very affordable option for hikers, with a padded waterproof case, waterproof zipper, reflective first aid symbol, and 101 supplies.
- Lightweight (.9 lbs) and compact (8″ x 6″ x 2″)
- Durable, grippy, waterproof case
- 101 supplies, including an ice pack, dressing tools, and bandages
- Very affordable
- Carabiner for attachment
- Doesn’t contain survival equipment
Best Survival First Aid Kit
The Breakwater Supply Survival First Aid Kit is an all-in-one solution that includes both medical supplies and survival tools in a small 2L waterproof dry bag.
Breakwater Supply Survival Waterproof First Aid Kit in 2L Dry Bag
The Breakwater Supply Survival Waterproof First Aid Kit is a compact 101-piece First Aid Kit with everything needed on the trail. It fits into your bag or attaches easily via the metal locking carabiner.
- Waterproof 2L dry bag with reflective first aid symbol and non-corrosive locking carabiner
- 101 supplies including both survival and emergency supplies (emergency blanket, poncho, multitool, bandages, survival bracelet)
- Compact and lightweight (1.3 lbs)
- Affordable
- Some may prefer a hard-shell case
Best Signal Locator/Beacon
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a compact satellite communicator that ensures you can signal for help even in remote areas.
Garmin inReach Mini 2
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a reliable satellite communication device with low-cost monthly plans for peace of mind.
- Reliable
- Great battery life (up to 14 days)
- Compact
- Has Check-In messages feature for text communication, as well as SOS
- Features TracBack GPS to route you to your starting point
- Monthly Plan required (ranges from $15 a month to $50 per month, depending on requirements)
Best Survival Bracelet
The NVioASport 20-in-1 Survival Bracelet combines multiple survival tools, including a fire starter, compass, and knife blade, in one wearable accessory.
NVioASport 20-in-1 Survival Bracelet
This 20-in-1 survival bracelet features an LED light, large compass, fire starter, whistle, and paracord. It’s an affordable choice, and it’s adjustable.
- Lots of tools and gadgets
- Adjustable
- LED light
- Why the SIM pin?
Best Emergency Blankets
The Oceas Outdoor Mylar Emergency Blankets provide essential warmth and protection from the elements, but their true value lies in the way they’re packaged, making them easy to bring with you on the trail.
Oceas Outdoor Mylar Emergency Blankets 4-Pack
This 4-pack of mylar emergency blankets from Oceas comes in a padded clamshell zip case, making it easy to stash in a backpack on a longer hike, or even easier to grab just one and distribute the others to your hiking friends.
- 4-Pack
- Affordable
- Individually packaged
- Padded zip case
- Not easily visible
Best Rain Safety Gear
The Molirex Disposable Rain Suit Poncho offers ultra lightweight, packable rain protection to keep you dry in case of emergency.
Molirex Disposable Rain Suit Poncho
Don’t overthink the raingear. As long as you have a waterproof backpack and waterproof shoes, you only need the bare minimum to keep the rest of yourself dry. Actual raingear is simply too bulky to pack and enjoy the trail, so we opt for bringing an emergency poncho, and keeping things light.
- Ultra lightweight (4.4 oz / 125g) for two pairs (2 pants, 2 coats)
- Disposable/recyclable
- Has a hood
- Disposable and adds waste. Please recycle.
- Not heavy-duty
Best Fire Starter
For reliable fire-starting, the Bayite Fire Starter Kit offers durable ferro rods that work in all weather conditions.
Bayite 4″ Fire Starter
Tough to beat this low-cost, classic ferro fire starter with a paracord.
- Low-cost
- Compact
- With paracord to keep striker at optimal proximity to rod
- High-quality, very hard striker
- No carry case
Best Survival Bivy Tent
If you’re really heading into remote territory, don’t be without a survival tent, just in case.
Don’t Die in the Woods Ultralight 2 Person Survival Tent
The Don’t Die in the Woods Ultralight 2 Person Survival tent makes light of the worst case scenario where you’d actually have to use it to…not die. It’s affordable, superlight, and functional. Not something you’d actually want to use unless you had to, but good to have just in case.
- Ultralight (8.5 oz)
- Affordable
- With easy carry pouch
- Very minimal
- A tight squeeze for 2 people
Best Accessories
Enhance your hiking experience with these essential accessories.
Best Waterproof Carabiners
The Breakwater Supply Hingeless Carabiners are ultralight, durable, and non-corrosive.
Breakwater Supply Hingeless Carabiner 4-Pack
These little carabiners have numerous things going for them: they’re incredibly light (3g, about the weight of a penny), they bend to the inside or to the outside, and they’re made of super strong POM plastic which is non-corrosive.
- Ultralight (3g)
- Bend to inside or outside with a grooved lip that stays in place
- Non-corrosive
- Very strong for the size
- There’s a glow in the dark version!
- Small size (1.75″)
Best Hiking Hat
The Tillak Wallowa Trail Hat provides excellent sun protection, breathability, and comfort for long hikes or trail runs.
Tillak Wallowa Trail Hat
The Tillak Wallowa is a lightweight (1.7 oz / 48g) 5-panel trail hat with mesh sides and nylon panels. An adjustable clasp at the back helps it stay on your noggin where it should be.
- Adjustable
- Lightweight
- Mesh panels are prone to tearing at the bill
Best Hiking Socks
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Socks are renowned for their durability, comfort, and blister prevention.
Darn Tough Vermont Hiker Micro Crew
Darn Tough’s are legendary amongst trail hikers. They’re plenty cushioned, fit well, and are built to last and last.
- Blend of wool, nylon, and Lycra spandex for elastic fit and sweat-wicking
- Lifetime guarantee. For socks. We ain’t kidding.
- Not everyone loves wool
Best Bug Repellent
Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Inset Repellent is no-nonsense concentrated eucalyptus spray that keeps insects away, period.
Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent
Mosquito bracelets don’t work, but you know what does? Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent. This concentrated no-DEET spray is 100% safe, very potent, and smells better than many alternatives. And once again, it’s DEET-free.
- DEET-free
- It works
- Doesn’t last as long as DEET (6 hours claimed vs 10 hours for DEET)
Best Animal Deterrent
The SABRE Frontiersman Bear Spray and Bear Horn is your most reliable bet to keep large animals, particularly bears, away aside from carrying a concealed weapon.
SABRE Frontiersman Bear Spray and Bear Horn
There’s bear bells, tripwire, pistols, bear horns, and bear spray. Opt for this combo pack of bear horn and bear spray when in bear country, and be ready to use it if necessary.
- Combo pack: one to warn a large animal, the other as a deterrent at close range
- Carrying both can be bulky
Best Portable Fan
The Koonie 10000mAH Waist Clip Belt Fan is a brilliant option for staying cool while on the trail.
Koonie 10000mAH Waist Clip Belt Fan
There are some incredibly inventive products out there for staying cool while on the trail, and a belt fan is at the top of the list. If you’ve never had one, give it a try, because it’s a game changer.
- Long battery life (6+ hours)
- Attaches to belt or waistband
- Also functions as phone charger
- Comes with solar panel to recharge itself
- Some reviews mention the solar panel does not work
Best Headlamp
The Nitecore NU-21 Headlamp is indispensable for night-time hikes, offering bright, adjustable illumination.
Nitecore NU-21 360 Lumen Headlamp
This simple, lightweight headlamp from Nitecore is rechargeable and features bungee cords for easy adjustability. Plus, it’s easy to carry and stash, and only weighs 44g.
- Ultralight
- USB-C rechargable
- Easy to carry
- Affordable
By equipping yourself with these top trail hiking gear selections, you’ll be prepared for whatever the trail throws at you. Happy hiking, trail running, and exploring!