The trail is calling. Well, the trail you can do in a day. The one your dogs can go on, the one you routinely use with your fitness tracker, the one with a beautiful vista or grove or clearing at the end that is perfect for a baguette and a bottle of wine.
Most of you hit that trail because you love the smell of clean air and want your daily dose of exercise. There’s no need to be narrow though — there are the gnarly trails, those in the double digit miles that ascend a thousand feet, the ones you have to embark upon at first light and scramble down in near-dark. You get outside because the getting is good out there.
Our Recommended Gear and Outdoor Guides for the Day Hiker are about function and joy. The bliss of a hard hike and the endorphins pouring through you; the comfort of a pack that sits perfect and carries the day’s essentials; the tips, tricks, and courtesies that turn a solo experience into a continual community of nature seekers.
Explore Recommended Gear and Outdoor Guides for Day Hiker below!
Day Hiker Gear Reviews
Gear Test: H20 Audio TRI 2 PRO Headphones
We’ve put the H20 Audio TRI 2 PRO Headphones through their paces, testing them rigorously during runs and cycling sessions.
Gear Test: PAKA Apparel Mountain Crew
We’re out in the elements with the PAKA Apparel Mountain Crew, testing its performance every step of the way.
Gear Test: ICEMULE R-Jaunt 20L Cooler
We’re out there in the wilds with the ICEMULE R-Jaunt 20L Cooler, putting this cooler bag to the test.
Gear Test: The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Down Jacket
We’re out there in the backcountry with The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Down Jacket, putting this down jacket to the test.
Gear Test: Norrøna Trollveggen Superlight Down850 Jacket
We’ve taken the Norrøna Trollveggen Superlight Down850 Jacket on a mountain adventure, putting this down jacket to the test.
REI Co-op Women’s Sahara T-Shirt
We’re out there in the thick of it with the REI Co-op Women’s Sahara T-Shirt, putting this tee to the test.
Gear Test: Norrona Femund Flannel Shirt
We hit the trails with the Norrona Femund Flannel Shirt, ready to see how this flannel shirt holds up in the elements.
Gear Test: REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles
We’re out on the trail with the REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles, putting these walking poles to the test.
Gear Test: Norrona Femund Econyl70 20L Pack
We’ve taken the Norrona Femund Econyl70 20L Pack out into the hills to put this backpack through its paces.
Gear Test: REI Co-op Women’s Sahara Convertible Pants
We’re pushing limits with the REI Co-op Women’s Sahara Convertible Pants, putting these versatile trail essentials through their paces.
Day Hiker Outdoor Guides
The 10 Best Backpacking Chairs of 2024
The best backpacking chairs will make camp way more comfortable. Lean back, get comfy, and prepare to find the right backpacking chair for you!
The Best Hiking Boots of 2024
We highlight the best hiking boots after researching and testing. Find the perfect lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight hiking boot for you!
The Best Hiking Sandals of 2024
We highlight the best hiking sandals of 2024 after researching and testing. Open toe, closed toe, or finger-style? Find the perfect hiking sandal for you!
The Best Hiking Shorts of 2024
Hiking shorts are the underrated all-stars of gear. The best hiking shorts kick sweat and chafe to the curb, and keep you trekking mile after mile.
The Best 9 Rain Ponchos of 2024
Rain ponchos are the preferred rain protection of many outdoorsy folks. Why? Cause they’re versatile. Here are the best Rain Ponchos of 2024.
The Best Down Jackets of 2024
The best down jackets will keep you cozy in the wilderness, on the couch, or at the bar. We have tested many, and list the best down jackets for you, here.
The Best Fleece Jackets of 2024
The best fleece jackets are cozy, breathable, versatile, full of zippers and have unique features. We list the best here, and what makes them shine.
Backpackers Guide to Fleece Jackets in 2024
This Guide to Fleece Jackets answers mysterious questions: What is fleece fabric? Is fleece warm? Is fleece breathable? And what’s recycled fleece? Read now.
The 10 Best Puffy Jackets on Amazon
Explore the best puffy jackets on Amazon for unbeatable warmth and style on your outdoor adventures this fall and winter.
Dog Lovers Guide to Hiking, Camping, and Backpacking with Your Pooch
When adventuring with your pup, you need to have the right gear for your dog to ensure their wellbeing. Here’s the best gear for dogs.