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Hiking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

Ortovox 185 Rock’n’wool Base Layer Review
A hiker hiking through the woods with a pack and trekking poles while wearing the Ortovox Rock'n'Wool base layer. Trees and a trail are in the background.

Ortovox 185 Rock’n’wool Base Layer Review

This midweight base layer features ultra-soft fine wool fibers and a comfortable, but snug fit making it feel warmer than other base layers of similar weight.
Smartwool Classic All-Season Base Layer Review
A hiker stands in the woods wearing the Smartwool Classic All-Season base layer. Trees are in the background.

Smartwool Classic All-Season Base Layer Review

The value of this base layer is right in the name—“classic” and “all-season.” It utilizes a timeless design without overcomplicating things. The moderate warmth and excellent breathability make it an appropriate choice all year round.
Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie Base Layer Review
A hiker walks down a trail with mountains and trees in the background. He is using trekking poles and wearing a pack and the Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie

Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie Base Layer Review

This is an ultimate layer. The one that you will always bring on every trip “just in case” and end up wearing everyday.
Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew Review
A hiker sips from a water bottle while wearing the Patagonia Capilene base layer. Trees are in the background.

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Crew Review

A breathable wool base layer that nails the sweet spot for midweight warmth.
Women’s Houdini Wadi Shorts Review
A gear analyst wearing lightweight blue houdini wadi shorts at sunset on a clear evening

Women’s Houdini Wadi Shorts Review

These shorts are a standout choice for those seeking a soft, lightweight, ultra-breathable pair.
Women’s Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts Review
a hiker posing next to a fence in a field of rabbit brush and sage in the sunny high desert

Women’s Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts Review

All-around performance shorts with a lightweight, breathable fabric, this option offers a streamlined fit that’s both functional, durable and quick-drying.
Women’s Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts Review
a women hiking on a dirt road with a black dog in the patagonia multi-trails shorts

Women’s Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts Review

These shorts are incredibly lightweight and packable, ideal for minimalist hikers who need to save space and weight. Despite their featherweight feel, they’re durable with great zip pockets.
Janji 3″ AFO Middle Shorts Review
a women in the desert wearing the janji afo middle shorts in black

Janji 3″ AFO Middle Shorts Review

These shorts offer impressive comfort and a lightweight design. They’re a solid value for eco-conscious hikers who prioritize comfort and breathability.
Women’s Patagonia Quandary Shorts
a women hiking in dry desert fields in orange patagonia shorts

Women’s Patagonia Quandary Shorts

A great pair of shorts for hikers who want a technical short that looks like casual streetwear.
Best Headlamps of 2024
A backpacker reading a map in his tent at night using the Black Diamond Spot headlamps

Best Headlamps of 2024

Sunset doesn’t have to be the end of the adventure when you’re carrying one of our trail-tested headlamps recommendations.
Best Hiking Shoes for Women of 2024
Knee-down view of a hiker standing on a white granite rock in a pair of teal Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3 hiking shoes in front a lake in Glacier National Park.

Best Hiking Shoes for Women of 2024

Looking for the most comfortable, durable women’s hiking shoes around? Our team of experts tested dozens of the most promising pairs over thousands…
Women’s Saucony Peregrine 14 Review
picture of a hiker wearing peregrine 14's walking over a log and dry grass

Women’s Saucony Peregrine 14 Review

We think these hiking shoes are a fantastic pick for ultralight backpackers, trail runners, and hikers who value speed and breathability.
Women’s Altra Lone Peak 8 Review
close up of a hiker wearing altra lone peak 8's on small boulders

Women’s Altra Lone Peak 8 Review

Lace up and go farther with this versatile shoe. With a refined ripstop mesh upper, grippy outsole, and responsive midsole, and a roomy toe box and zero drop design, it’s perfect for thru-hikers and trail runners alike.
Women’s Merrell Moab 3 Review
hiker's feet wearing the merrell moab 3 on loose gravel

Women’s Merrell Moab 3 Review

A no fuss shoe with comfort, durability and versatility, now even softer, grippier and more supportive.
Women’s Merrell Moab Speed 2 Review
a woman walking in the high desert brush

Women’s Merrell Moab Speed 2 Review

We loved wearing this light and agile pair from Merrell on day hikes and a long-weekend backpacking trip.
Women’s Hoka Speedgoat 6 Review

Women’s Hoka Speedgoat 6 Review

This is a high-performing technical pair of trail shoes. They effectively make you feel solid on the ground, yet light on your feet as you devour the trail before you.
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