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
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.
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.
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.
Patagonia Quandary Shorts Review
Patagonia Quandary Shorts review: stretchy, durable adventure shorts that have ample pockets and breathe with the best of them.
The North Face Denali 2 Review
The North Face Denali 2 reimagines a classic in all the best ways. It keeps you toasty, performs admirably as a wind blocker, and feels like home, if home were a fleece jacket.
Lems Boulder Boot Review 2020
Lems Boulder Boots: lightweight, durable, and comfortable zero-drop boots that wear well on trail and on pavement. They pack away amazingly small, too.
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prAna Mojo Shorts Review: If outdated hiking shorts have you feeling like you lost your mojo, look no further.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.
WANDRD PRVKE 21 Review
With the ability to carry a wide assortment of items and weight, the WANDRD PRVKE 21 backpack was excellently designed by travelers and photographers.
Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket Review
Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket Review: when it comes to warmth and water resistance, this lightweight jacket can’t be beat. A true a diamond in the rough.
The North Face Campshire Review
The North Face Campshire review: a creature comfort, a guilty pleasure, a true enabler of lazy days. A heavyweight fleece jacket with a kangaroo pocket!
Urban Hiker Outdoor Guides
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 2020
We highlight the best hiking boots after researching and testing. Find the perfect lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight hiking boot for you!
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.
The Winter Guide to Baselayers
When it’s cold outside, you need clothing to keep you warm. Enter baselayers, long underwear, or thermal clothing. The Winter Guide to Baselayers is all about layering effectively in the coldest months of year.
Last Minute Holiday Gift Guide!
Haven’t finished your shopping? This Last Minute Holiday Gift Guide includes incredible products from unique brands. Look for extra discounts as well!
The 10 Best Rain Pants of 2020
Rain pants are a necessity for foul weather hiking. But what pair to get? We break down the 10 best rain pants on the market to find the right pair for you.
The Best Voices and Brands in Plus Size Outdoor Clothing
Plus size outdoor clothing hasn’t been acknowledged by the outdoor industry. We highlight the voices and brands that stand up for plus size outdoor clothing.
The Best Down Jackets of 2020
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 Use Waterproofing Spray and Wash for Jackets, Tents, and Footwear
Raindrops keep falling on my head…but since I re-waterproofed my gear my eyes won’t be turning red! In short, modern waterproofing rocks. We’re able to march up mountains in gear that’s both waterproof and fairly breathable. What a time to be alive. Yet this waterproof-ability is a privilege, one that’s easily taken for granted. I’ve […]
The Best Hiking Shorts of 2020
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.
