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: Paka Women’s Alpaca Bralette and Underwear
Exploring the great outdoors, we’re testing the Paka Women’s Alpaca Bralette and Underwear to see how this active underwear performs.
Gear Test: Ruff Bar Ruff Food
Man’s best friend deserves the best fuel! Putting Ruff Bar Ruff Food, a freeze-dried raw food, to the test on our wilderness adventure.
Gear Test: Ibex Women’s 24 Hour Short Sleeve Low Crew
We put the Ibex Women’s 24 Hour Short Sleeve Low Crewto the test on a recent camping trip, and it didn’t disappoint.
Gear Test: Women’s Crester Trail Tee LS
We’ve field-tested the Women’s Crester Trail Tee LS, challenging this adventure tee in the rugged outdoors.
Gear Test: Stio Women’s Exploit Hooded Jacket
We’ve taken the Stio Women’s Exploit Hooded Jacket out on the trails for some rigorous mountain biking, really putting this rugged outerwear through its paces.
Gear Test: Stio Women’s CFS Hooded Anorak
Deep in the forest, we put the Stio Women’s CFS Hooded Anorak to the ultimate test, demonstrating its exceptional performance.
Gear Test: Nebu B-52 Pants
We’re been field-testing the Nebu B-52 Pants on rugged trails to determine if they live up to their promise.
Gear Test: Peak Design Everyday Sling 6L
We’re putting the Peak Design Everyday Sling 6L to the ultimate test, testing this sling bag in real-world settings, to see how it holds up under pressure.
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.
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.