Hiking is one of the easiest and inexpensive outdoor activities, and if you ever feel like a calming walk, perhaps a walk in the woods would do the trick. However, hiking can be a daunting task, especially if the preparations and gear are short of the standard. Gear is the equipment we carry in our backpacks. Nothing is as frustrating as worrying about gear efficacy while you push through a strenuous course to the summit of a peak. However, you must attain a couple of things if that stroll is to live on as a beautiful memory.

I have had some pretty atrocious experiences with purchasing hiking gear. Experiences I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. However, the best equipment is durable and serves its purpose, and is light enough for weight consideration in the backpack. That, in many cases, is the difference between a good and treacherous experience on the track.

• What is my favorite hiking gear

There is so much hiking gear out there, but I will give you a subjective list plus a couple of recommendations worth considering.

• Hiking boots, shoes, and socks

The proper footwear will make or break your hiking trip. Here are a few of my collectibles.

• Shoes

When it comes to shoes, I have tried out two types which I know you will love.        

Altra Men’s Lone Peak 5 is an exceptional choice, especially for short hikes and traveling fast. They are comfortable and light. These should cost you about $130 from REI

Nike Pegasus Trail 2 are my top recommendation for hiking in the backcountry and long-distance hikes. They are made of GORE-TEX, a waterproof membrane that will keep your feet dry and nice in wet conditions. They will cost you about $160 at the Nike or Under Armour stores.

• Boots

I have also had the luxury of trying out three types of boots but will recommend only two. 

Unisex UA HOVR Dawn WP Boots are an exceptional choice if you plan to go hiking on rugged terrain. The famous ankle support feature has made it simply comfortable and a hiker must-have. They are also accommodating in wet and muddy terrain. They cost about $190 at the Under Armour store.

Women’s Lone Peak All-WTHR Mid are boots to turn to when the weather goes cold, and she needs ankle support. I didn’t try them on, honestly, but I have heard a lot of sounding reviews. Their wide-toe box allows your feet to spray out, keep relaxed, and dry while keeping comfortable. The women’s collectibles will set you back about $170 at REI.

• Socks 

I have tried so many types, some even feminine, and the following made my favorite’s list

Darn Tough Hiker Women’s Micro Crew Cushion Socks are good anti-blister socks. These will cost you $23 at REI, but you have scored the best deal at that price. They are made from Merino wool blend to keep your feet dry, cool, and also from rubbing.

REI Co-Op COOLMAX EcoMade Lightweight Hiking Quarter Socks is made fabric-engineered from recycled water bottles, costing you about $13.95 at REI. A lightweight cushioning and has a breathable ability to keep your feet cool and dry. 

• Backpacks

Backpacks are a must bring on every hike, short or long; here are my top recommendations. These vary in size depending on the trek. Some bags are known to carry water bladders for easy access during a hike.

Osprey Skimmer 20 Hydration Pack has a 2.5-liter water bladder with a lifetime warranty. It costs about $100 at REI.

REI Co-Op Flash 22 Pack has two fat side pockets for carrying large water bottles. The backpack is super helpful for the longer hikes because of the detachable waist belt and chest strap, which can be very useful if the need to shed weight arises. The backpack should cost you about $54.95 at REI.

• Navigation

I have always taken a soft spot for gadgets and seek to use them every single opportunity I grab.

Garmin InReach Mini is a strong navigation option, especially when you go hiking in remote tracks where cell reception is only a privilege. It works like a satellite phone and is very helpful in case you get stuck or separated on the trail. Check out REI and Amazon for pricing. 

Garmin Fenix 6 Pro Solar is a GPS-oriented smartwatch. They have an altimeter, GPS, compass, and topographic maps. The watch can be recycled as a fitness tracker, sleep tracker and capable of loading other apps. They don’t come cheap, however, but are definitely worth the expense. Check out REI and Amazon for pricing. 

• Sleeping pad

The correct sleep routine will make your hikes joyful and priceless. I had a bad experience once on the trail when my sleeping pad wasn’t giving me the required insulation. The mental fatigue was surreal and quite unbearable.

NeoAir XTherm Sleeping Pad has excellent functionality that I believe you will appreciate. Great insulation in the cold; the pad comes with an inflating bag. The inflating bag can double as a clothes bag. The bag should cost between $219.95 and $259.95, according to Thermarest.

REI Co-op Magma 15° is another sleeping bag worth the expense. It is ultra-light, compressible, and warm, especially in the mid-winter season.  

• Camping Tents

After a long day’s hike, tents ensure you get suitable shelter at night. It is all part of a measured sleep routine. If you are new to backpacking, then I have two excellent choices for your consideration.

REI Co-op Passage 2 is an attractive choice if you are still testing the water and not so sure about hiking in general. It is spacious, durable, well built, and comfortable. The only negative to this product is the weight, especially on a long hike.

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 is every hiker’s dream. A well-balanced combination of weight, weather protection, comfort, and convenience. It is an excellent choice for solo hiking if you don’t mind tighter quarters—the perfect sleep companion.