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
Marmot PreCip Pants Eco Review
The Marmot PreCip Pants Eco Full Zip review: adaptive rain pants you can adjust at the hip, at the zip, and at any time on your outdoor trip.
Patagonia R1 Hoody Review
The R1 Hoody is a veritable buffet of fleece-awesomeness for the gear addicted backpacker. Comfort, warmth, design, and sheer versatility at your service.
Erem Xerocole Expedition Desert Hiking Boot Review
The Erem Xerocole Expedition Boots are stellar desert hiking boots for sandy trails, brushy off-trail bushwhacking, and mountainous rock hopping.
Ombraz Dolomite Armless Sunglasses Review
Ombraz Dolomite Armless Sunglasses review: Ample sun protection with premium materials, wide coverage, and striking style. Oh, and no sidearms.
Patagonia Baggies Review
The Patagonia Baggies thrive in the “chill” department. They are no-fuss, good-looking, surprisingly quick-drying shorts that you can wear for days on end.
Columbia Sandy River Shorts Review
Columbia Sandy River Shorts Review: Simple, comfortable and functional, these are multi-use shorts for days spent outside, inside and everywhere in-between.
Super Sparrow Ultra-Light Series: Water Bottle Review
Super Sparrow Ultra-Light Series stainless steel water bottles are the cream of the crop.
LIVSN Ecotrek Trail Pants: Hiking Gear Review
The LIVSN Ecotrek Trail Pants are exceptional. They’re three-season hiking pants that you’ll want to wear during all of your outdoor activities.
Lems Boulder Boot Review
Lems Boulder Boots: lightweight, durable, and comfortable zero-drop boots that wear well on trail and on pavement. They pack away amazingly small, too.
Outdoor Research Ascendant Hoody Review
Outdoor Research Ascendant Hoody Review: Looking for an active insulation fleece jacket that breathes better than anything? This one has has you covered.
Day Hiker Outdoor Guides
The Best Fleece Jackets of 2022
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 9 Rain Ponchos of 2022
Rain ponchos are the preferred rain protection of many outdoorsy folks. Why? Cause they’re versatile. Here are the best Rain Ponchos of 2021.
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 comfort and wellbeing. Here’s the best dog gear.
The Best Hiking Boots of 2022
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 2022
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!
The Best Coolers, Cooler Backpacks, and Cooler Bags of 2022
Coolers have long been a camping and road trip staple item. Now, insulated totes and backpack coolers are taking cold treats to the trail.
The Best Hiking Shorts of 2022
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 Ultimate Guide to Father’s Day Outdoor Gift Guides 2022
All of the best Father’s Day outdoor gift guides and deals featuring many of your favorite outdoor retailers and brands.
The Best Down Jackets of 2022
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.
How to Plan and Prepare for a Hike in High Winds
Windy weather doesn’t have to put a damper on your hike, as long as you come prepared for the conditions. Learn how to hike in high winds.