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Hiking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

Outdoor Research Alpine Onset Merino 150 Hoodie Base Layer Review
a hiker in a black hooded base layer stands in an alpine environment and raises the hood on his shirt

Outdoor Research Alpine Onset Merino 150 Hoodie Base Layer Review

With its integrated hood and facemask, this base layer makes for a perfect sleep or active shirt in frigid weather.
Arc’Teryx Rho LT Crew Base Layer Review
a hiker stands on a wooded trail wearing a light blue base layer and a backpack

Arc’Teryx Rho LT Crew Base Layer Review

Designed for cold weather activities, this base layer delivers some of the best warmth-to-weight ratios and comfort that we’ve seen.
Ibex Woolies Pro Tech Base Layer Review
a runner runs along a wooded trail in a black base layer.

Ibex Woolies Pro Tech Base Layer Review

This base layer is redefining merino wool success with new spinning methods that boost warmth and durability. It’s also the lightest base layer on our list.
Women’s Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts Review
A woman hikes along a trail with a hand in the pocket of her hiking shorts.

Women’s Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts Review

While these updated shorts are still incredibly durable with their wind and water resistance and UPF 50+ sun protection, we did have some gripes with the fit and the wider (and bulkier) belt.
Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Hiking Shorts Review
A woman walks along a lush trail surrounded by greenery.

Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Hiking Shorts Review

This is a low-profile, stretchy, sweat-wicking, and flattering option that is a great pick for women who prefer compression shorts on the trail.
Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly 2.5” Women’s Hiking Shorts Review
A woman hikes down a trail, showcasing her red Rabbit shorts.

Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly 2.5” Women’s Hiking Shorts Review

This is one of the lightest and most breathable shorts in our lineup that also boasts five pockets, making it our go-to for trail runs or hikes in hot climates.
prAna Stretch Zion Cargo Women’s Hiking Shorts Review
Woman hikes along a forested trail with her Prana shorts.

prAna Stretch Zion Cargo Women’s Hiking Shorts Review

These shorts are a new, unique high-rise style that features many pockets, adjustable waist cinches, and UPF-rated material.
REI Trailmade Women’s Hiking Shorts Review
Woman standing on a rock outcropping overlooking the scenery below.

REI Trailmade Women’s Hiking Shorts Review

These shorts are truly made for the trail with their impressive comfort, functionality and quick-drying capabilities.
Stio Vallis Women’s Hiking Shorts Review
Close-up image of a woman standing in front of tall grass wearing thigh-length, beige hiking shorts.

Stio Vallis Women’s Hiking Shorts Review

These Stio shorts are great for mixed hiking and everyday use with a soft and stretchy build that’s easy to move in and good-looking, too.
Men’s KEEN Hightrail Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot Review
Close-up of boot outsole on snow-covered log, showing mud-clearing lug pattern.

Men’s KEEN Hightrail Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot Review

A mid-height hiking boot with plush, high-rebound cushioning—perfect for muddy, rugged trails and multi-day treks where comfort and stability matter most.
MSR Guardian Water Filter Review
A hiker pumps with the msr guardian filter. the pre filter is submerged in murky water and a nalgene bottle is attached to the bottom of the filter.

MSR Guardian Water Filter Review

When confidence in water quality is of the utmost importance, there is no better tool than this portable water purifier.
The North Face Summit Series Breithorn Down Jacket Review
a man in a blue jacket standing in a field. He's facing somewhat away from the camera and lookign off into the distance.

The North Face Summit Series Breithorn Down Jacket Review

North Face knows how to make a warm, mid-weight down hoodie designed for winter adventures. It’s comfortable, durable, is solidly weather resistant and not super bulky.
Best Hiking Shoes for Kids of 2026

Best Hiking Shoes for Kids of 2026

Kiddos need reliable footwear out on trail as much as adults. Check out our review of the best hiking shoes for kids so your little one can cruise along with you on your next adventure.
Katadyn Hiker Water Filter Review
A close up of a hiker pumping water next to a creek with a hand pump filter

Katadyn Hiker Water Filter Review

This pump filter comes in a lightweight package while eliminating the hassle of squeezing water bladders or weighting on chemical treatments to work.
Adidas Terrex AX4R Mid Kids Hiking Shoes Review
Child hiking over wet rocks on a forest trail while wearing Adidas Terrex AX4R Mid shoes.

Adidas Terrex AX4R Mid Kids Hiking Shoes Review

With solid traction, ankle support, and a tough build, these shoes are great for young hikers tackling rocky trails, muddy paths, and everything in between.
Five Ten Freerider Kids Mountain Bike Shoe Review
Close-up of worn Five Ten Freerider kids shoes sitting on sandy ground near a lake.

Five Ten Freerider Kids Mountain Bike Shoe Review

These shoes offer excellent grip, protection, and versatility for young riders who split time between biking, hiking, and everyday adventures on and off the trail.
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