1. HOKA Speedgoat 5
These shoes are trail runners, meaning they fit like a sneaker but have the grip of a typical hiking boot. If you are looking to take a faster-paced hike or are looking for a lightweight shoe, the HOKA Speedgoat 5 is the perfect choice! This shoe comes in both men's and women's sizes and has several fun and stylish colors to pick from.
2. Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX Hiking Boots
If you're looking for a sturdier, more traditional hiking shoe, Salomon is the place to start. These boots provide ample ankle support for walking on tough terrain, and the rubber soles are ready to take on any trail condition you could come across.
3. REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles
REI not only sells high-quality outdoor equipment but also creates their own. These trekking poles from REI Co-op are not just affordable when compared to other major outdoor equipment brands, but they are a perfect choice to take to the trails. They are lightweight, easily-adjustable and work for heights ranging from 5'1" to over 6'.
4. Cotopaxi Batac 24L Backpack
Cotopaxi is a brand loved by hikers, campers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, and not just because of their fun, bright colors! The Cotopaxi Batac backpack comes in two different sizes, and the lightweight and streamlined design makes it ideal for fast-and-light day trips, hikes and other excursions.
5. goodr OG
Make sure you can catch every breathtaking view on your hike without the sun making you squint and miss something. Goodr sunglasses are constructed with a special grip-coated frame to eliminate slippage when sweating and designed with a snug fit to ensure they don't bounce while you trek. There are tons of designs to choose from, but we are partial to the National Parks collection.
6. Hydro Flask 40 oz Wide Mouth
The number one rule of hiking is to make sure that you are staying hydrated on the trails. Hydro Flask water bottles use a special technology, TempShield®️, to keep drinks cold up to 24 hours so your water will stay icy cold and refreshing for your entire journey. Don't forget to cover your bottle in stickers from your favorite hikes!
7. Badger Sport Mineral Sunscreen Cream - SPF 40
A good, sweat-proof sunscreen is a MUST in any hiker's bag. Even if you are hitting the trails on an overcast day, the UV levels could still be enough to give you a burn. This sunscreen is Protect Land + Sea Certified, meaning it is safe for you and the planet. The formula is waterproof up to 80 minutes, so you can splash around in any streams or sweat up a storm without having to reapply right away.
8. AllTrails
Though this is not technically gear, it will help you on your hike just as much as a perfect pair of shoes! AllTrails is an app that highlights local hiking spots, generates a map so you never wander off-trail and helps you find the right trail for you. Whether you need wheelchair or stroller accessibility, trails for mountain bikes or want to see how difficult a hike might be, AllTrails has all the info you need.