Not everyone is fortunate enough to live at the footsteps of an epic mountain. Some of us have jobs in skyscrapers, enjoy the bustle of a metropolis, and go on midnight bar runs that end with crepes and bacon-wrapped hot dogs.
The city life does not exclude you from the outdoor world. It literally doesn’t in many cities, as there are diverse parks, hiking trails, and natural beauty to be had, but it’s also about the mentality you have and the world you live in. The walk to the metro, transfer downtown, and jog up the hill to the office is your version of a hike. Your bike ride to the gallery opening after work, ending in the aforementioned hot dog wrapped in bacon, is your version of a 20-mile trek and a freeze-dried dinner.
Our Recommended Gear and Outdoor Guides for the Urban Hiker turn the city experience into an outdoor one. The gear required to navigate everything the city can throw at you — not bears, buses; not poison oak, tourists — is just as important and versatile as what you need in the backcountry. You also probably get out into said wilderness often, whenever your job allows and you can get away, and we’re here to keep that spirit alive during the long concrete-treading months.
Explore Recommended Gear and Outdoor Guides for Urban Hiker below!
Urban Hiker Gear Reviews
Gear Test: noxgear Tracer 2
Taking the Noxgear Tracer 2 for a spin, we set out to see if this LED vest truly delivers on visibility, comfort, and durability.
Gear Test: noxgear LightHound LED Dog Harness
With the Noxgear LightHound LED Dog Harness, we’re diving into the action to see how this dog harness performs.
Gear Test: H20 Audio TRI 2 PRO Headphones
We’ve put the H20 Audio TRI 2 PRO Headphones through their paces, testing them rigorously during runs and cycling sessions.
Gear Test: PAKA Apparel Mountain Crew
We’re out in the elements with the PAKA Apparel Mountain Crew, testing its performance every step of the way.
Gear Test: ICEMULE R-Jaunt 20L Cooler
We’re out there in the wilds with the ICEMULE R-Jaunt 20L Cooler, putting this cooler bag to the test.
Gear Test: The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Down Jacket
We’re out there in the backcountry with The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Down Jacket, putting this down jacket to the test.
Gear Test: Norrona Femund Econyl70 20L Pack
We’ve taken the Norrona Femund Econyl70 20L Pack out into the hills to put this backpack through its paces.
Gear Test: REI Co-op Women’s Sahara Convertible Pants
We’re pushing limits with the REI Co-op Women’s Sahara Convertible Pants, putting these versatile trail essentials through their paces.
Gear Test: REI Co-op Trailmade Amphib Shorts
We’ve been out in the wild with the REI Co-op Trailmade Amphib Shorts, putting their performance to the test.
Gear Test: REI Co-op Merino Wool Hiking Quarter Socks
We’re out in the wilderness with the REI Co-op Merino Wool Hiking Quarter Socks, putting these lightweight hiking socks to the test.
Urban 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.
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.