There is a big, The beautiful world is on the other side of your front door. America has never had more public wilderness for you to enjoy than it does now, and no matter where you live, chances are trails near you. Like all hobbies, the hardest part is getting started. Don’t get overwhelmed by a bunch of hiking gear vying for your dollars. It’s easier than you think to stay dry, warm, hydrated, and safe. We’ve got recommendations for everything you need for a day hike right here.
If you’re a little more experienced, be sure to check it out buy guidelike The best tent, The best camping stoveand The best portable coffee maker. Now get out there and be the hiker you’ve always wanted to be.
Update January 2022: We’ve updated pricing, swapped out a few selections for new products, and adjusted retailers to reflect changes in stock. We also include additional information on how to use some devices.
Table of contents
Shoes, Socks and Socks
Let’s start with the obvious: You’re not going to have any fun hiking — for any length of time — if you have blood blisters on your legs or nasty cracks under your armpits. You may need to experiment to find out which shoes you like best. When it comes to clothes, think layers, so you can easily add or subtract them before you start to sweat. Check out our guide to Best trail running shoes and How to place classes? for more information.
- A good shoe for $120: For moderate temperatures, we like Gore-Tex low-profile, non-mesh shoes, such as Salomon X Ultra 3 ($120) or Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator ($100). For areas that still have snow and frost at this time of year, Iowa Renegade GTX ($245) The boots are more stable and the leather keeps wet snow from seeping through your boots.
- Ball socks for $14: If your feet are hot, synthetic socks dry faster than wool socks. This pair from Wrightsock is synthetic and comes in two layers to prevent blistering. Darn Tough also produces merino wool socks in various thicknesses and they come with a lifetime warranty.
- Wicking boxer shorts for $25: Baselayers are a thin layer next to your skin. They can be made of many different materials, but they need to absorb sweat and keep you warm. As for panties, even in most cold weather you can still wear short underwear.
- Wicking bras for $75 and up: This guide has a few or so of our favorite backgrounds. I’ve listed great lightweight, synthetic, wool and blend options.
- One layer of insulation for $129: Your midlayer sits between your base and your shell, although it’s often too warm to wear while hiking. More often, you’ll throw it at breaks and when doing housework. I’m a fan of fleece for the middle layers.
- A puffer jacket for $199: Puffy coats can be worn as a middle layer instead of a fleece jacket. They are very warm, but more fragile.
- Raincoat: Waterproof jackets can be classified into hard or soft shells. The soft shell is more stretchy and breathable, but not completely waterproof; Hard shells are much less susceptible to soaking. I love Mountain Hardwear Exposure 2 Raincoat ($300).
- Various hats: Depending on the weather, you may need a sun hat or beanie to protect your noggin. I like this Smartwool Merino 150 Beanie ($23) to protect your neck from sunburn; Check out our guide to The best sun protection clothing and Best sunglasses for more suggestions.
- Interesting extras: You probably won’t need a gal, but if you’re walking through dusty environments, you’ll welcome them. They prevent fabric crumbs from entering the soles of your shoes in dusty environments. I love these fun Dirty Girl Outfits ($20).
Bottles, Bladders and Snacks
One of the biggest beginner mistakes is not bringing water or food, even for short hikes. Depending on the heat and your level of exertion, you may be thirstier than you think, and salty snacks help you retain water. For a short hike, a liter bottle is enough. If you’re going to be out all day or if it’s particularly hot or dry, upload.
