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
Patagonia Better Sweater Review
The Patagonia Better Sweater is a staple fleece jacket that will leave the house with you when there’s a chill in the air, and looks good pretty much everywhere.
Canada Goose Hybridge Lite Jacket Review
Canada Goose Hybridge Lite Jacket Review: A staple down jacket for city life or mountain life. It holds up to crazy adventures and looks stylish as hell.
Lems Boulder Boot Review 2021
Lems Boulder Boots: lightweight, durable, and comfortable zero-drop boots that wear well on trail and on pavement. They pack away amazingly small, too.
Rockay Flare Half Tight Shorts and Tech Tee Review
The Rockay Flare Half Tight Shorts are form-fitting performance shorts that are eco-friendly, wonderfully comfortable, and chafe-proof.
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.
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.
Urban Hiker Outdoor Guides
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.
The Best Fleece Jackets of 2021
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 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 Boots of 2021
We highlight the best hiking boots after researching and testing. Find the perfect lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight hiking boot for you!
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 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 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.
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.
