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: lululemon License to Train Short Sleeve Shirt
Testing the lululemon License to Train Short Sleeve Shirt outdoors, we examined its durability and performance firsthand.
Gear Test: VJ Shoes Artix
We’re braving the elements with the VJ Shoes Artix hiking boots, tackling snowy trails to truly put these boots to the test.
Gear Test: Stio Eddy Shirt LS
Taking the Stio Eddy Shirt LS into the great outdoors, we’ve had the chance to really see what this long sleeve shirt is made of.
Gear Test: Nathan TrailMix 2.0 12 Liter Hydration Pack
We’re out there on the trail with the Nathan TrailMix 2.0 12 Liter Hydration Pack, putting this hydration pack to the test.
Gear Test: lululemon Scuba Oversized Full-Zip Hoodie
We ventured into the desert, putting the Lululemon Scuba Oversized Full-Zip Hoodie through its paces.
Gear Test: Helinox Chair Zero
On our latest outdoor adventure, we’ve taken a closer look at the Helinox Chair Zero, putting this lightweight backpacking chair to the test.
Gear Test: PAKA PAKACLOUD Fleece
We’re out here in the woods with the PAKA PAKACLOUD Fleece, putting this fleece to the test.
Gear Test: EcoFlow RIVER 2 Portable Power Station
We’re out there in the thick of it with the EcoFlow RIVER 2 Portable Power Station, putting this power station to the test.
Gear Test: Paka Crew Socks 3/4
We’re out there at camp with the Paka Crew Socks 3/4, putting these adventure socks to the test.
Gear Test: KÜHL Spyfire Jacket
We’re out there in the thick of it with the KÜHL Spyfire Jacket, putting this jacket to the test.
Day Hiker Outdoor Guides
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.
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 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 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.
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!
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.
The Best Coolers, Backpack Coolers, and Cooler Bags of 2023
When camping, the best coolers need to keep snacks and drinks cold for days. Backpack coolers are great for day hikes, but need to be comfy.
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.