Day Hiker

If you hike because you love it, know it’s good for you, and need a frequent dose of what the natural world has to offer, the Day Hiker is for you.

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 Scuba Oversized Full-Zip Hoodie

Recommended For: Car Camper, Day Hiker, Urban Hiker

We ventured into the desert, putting the Lululemon Scuba Oversized Full-Zip Hoodie through its paces.

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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.

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Gear Test: PAKA PAKACLOUD Fleece

Outdoor Gear Type: Fleece Jackets
Recommended For: Day Hiker, Urban Hiker

We’re out here in the woods with the PAKA PAKACLOUD Fleece, putting this fleece to the test.

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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.

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Gear Test: Paka Crew Socks 3/4

Outdoor Gear Type: Socks
Recommended For: Day Hiker, Urban Hiker

We’re out there at camp with the Paka Crew Socks 3/4, putting these adventure socks to the test.

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Gear Test: KÜHL Spyfire Jacket

Outdoor Gear Type: Down Jackets
Recommended For: Day Hiker

We’re out there in the thick of it with the KÜHL Spyfire Jacket, putting this jacket to the test.

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Gear Test: Free Fly Apparel Gridback Fleece Jacket

Outdoor Gear Type: Fleece Jackets

We’re out there on the trail with the Free Fly Apparel Gridback Fleece Jacket, putting this fleece jacket to the test.

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Gear Test: Rad Power Bikes Bern Hudson MIPS Helmet

Outdoor Gear Type: helmet
Recommended For: Bikepacker, Day Hiker, Urban Hiker

We’re out there on the trail with the Rad Power Bikes Bern Hudson MIPS Helmet, putting this helmet to the test.

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Gear Test: REI Co-op First Chair Gtx ePE Jacket

Outdoor Gear Type: Snow Gear

We’re out there on the slopes with the REI Co-op First Chair Gtx ePE Jacket, putting this ski jacket to the test.

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Gear Test: Coalatree Trailhead Pants

Outdoor Gear Type: Pants

We’re out there on the trail with the Coalatree Trailhead Pants, putting these trailhead pants to the test.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Dog Lovers Guide to Hiking, Camping, and Backpacking with Your Pooch

Outdoor Gear Type: Pets

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.

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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.

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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!

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The Best Coolers, Backpack Coolers, and Cooler Bags of 2023

Outdoor Gear Type: Coolers
Recommended For: Car Camper, Day Hiker, Urban Hiker

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.

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The Best Hiking Sandals of 2023

We highlight the best hiking sandals of 2022 after researching and testing. Open toe, closed toe, or finger-style? Find the perfect hiking sandal for you!

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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.

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The Best Hiking Boots of 2023

We highlight the best hiking boots after researching and testing. Find the perfect lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight hiking boot for you!

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