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
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.
Sunski Headlands Review
Sunski Headlands Review: Simple, effective, and polarized, an affordable, do-it-all solution to active sunglasses. Get them for the ease of use, keep going back for the Lifetime Warranty.
Teva Hurricane XLT 2 Review
Teva Hurricane XLT 2 Review: these sandals that won’t break the bank, will perform in almost every scenario, and distance you from that AARP card.
Patagonia Quandary Shorts Review
Patagonia Quandary Shorts review: stretchy, durable adventure shorts that have ample pockets and breathe with the best of them.
prAna Mojo Shorts Review
prAna Mojo Shorts Review: If outdated hiking shorts have you feeling like you lost your mojo, look no further. Durable, lightweight, and ready for the crag.
Felix Gray Roebling Sunglasses Review
Felix Gray Roebling: Style, glare reduction, and excellent shade in a compact pair of sunglasses. Get them for all your city excursions.
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.
CamelBak Rim Runner 22 Review
CamelBak Rim Runner 22 review: Durable design, ample storage options, and impressive structural support are the true pillars of this iconic hydration pack.
BioLite PowerLight Mini Review
BioLite PowerLight Mini review: the Swiss Army Knife of camp lanterns. A versatile, practical light that is ideal for use in a variety of applications.
Deuter Speed Lite 20 Review
A do-it-all medium-sized lightweight day pack that can handle a multitude of outdoor adventures.
Day Hiker Outdoor Guides
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.
The Best Coolers, Cooler Backpacks, and Cooler Bags of 2021
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 9 Rain Ponchos of 2021
Rain ponchos are the preferred rain protection of many outdoorsy folks. Why? Cause they’re versatile. Here are the best Rain Ponchos of 2021.
The Best Hiking Shorts of 2021
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 2021
All of the best Father’s Day outdoor gift guides and deals featuring many of your favorite outdoor retailers and brands.
The 8 Best Backpacking Chairs of 2021
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 Outdoor Holiday Gifts for 2020
We showcase the best outdoor holiday gifts for 2020. Packed with stocking stuffers and showstopping gear for the outdoor adventurers on your shopping list.
The Best Hiking Boots of 2021
We highlight the best hiking boots after researching and testing. Find the perfect lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight hiking boot for you!
How to Repair Holes in Your Camping Gear
Taking gear outside means a few rips will occur. We explain how to repair camping gear, whether it’s holes a tent, sleeping bag, clothing, or sleeping pad.
REI Wedding Registry: How to Create One, Find One, and Add Gifts to One
The REI Wedding Registry is the most popular option for outdoor couples. See how to create one, how REI returns work, and what gifts you should include.
