Urban Hiker

If you live to fight another day under a twinkling skyline, relish community parks, and stair walk on the regular, the Urban Hiker is for you.

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 Report: ICEMULE R-Jaunt 20L

Outdoor Gear Type: Backpacks, Coolers
Recommended For: Car Camper, Day Hiker, Urban Hiker

We tested the ICEMULE R-Jaunt 20L cooler. See what we think of this backpack cooler and if it’d be a good fir your your adventures.

Read the Gear Review

Gear Test: Free Fly Apparel Women’s Breeze Cropped Pant

Outdoor Gear Type: Pants

We’re out there this summer with the Free Fly Apparel Women’s Breeze Cropped Pant, putting these casual camp pants to the test.

Read the Gear Review

Gear Test: KÜHL Renegade Pant

Outdoor Gear Type: Pants

We’re out there on the trail with the KUHL Renegade Pant, putting these hiking pants to the test.

Read the Gear Review

Gear Report: lululemon Blissfeel Trail Women’s Running Shoe

The lululemon Blissfeel Trail Women’s Running Shoe is a road-to-trail runner that meshes rugged traction with soft and springy cushioning.

Read the Gear Review

Gear Test: ICEMULE R-Jaunt 20L Cooler

Outdoor Gear Type: Coolers
Recommended For: Car Camper, Day Hiker, Urban Hiker

We’re out there in the wilds with the ICEMULE R-Jaunt 20L Cooler, putting this cooler bag to the test.

Read the Gear Review

Gear Test: Tifosi Swick Sunglasses

Outdoor Gear Type: Sunglasses

We’re out there in the thick of it with the Tifosi Swick Sunglasses, putting these sunglasses to the test.

Read the Gear Review

Gear Test: REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent

We’re out there in the thick of it with the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent, putting this tent to the test.

Read the Gear Review

Gear Report: Outdoor Vitals Nebo Windbreaker

The Outdoor Vitals Nebo Windbreaker is a versatile layer. It’s no-frills wind jacket that does its job well.

Read the Gear Review

Gear Test: The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Down Jacket

Outdoor Gear Type: Down Jackets

We’re out there in the backcountry with The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Down Jacket, putting this down jacket to the test.

Read the Gear Review

Gear Test: Brella Rain Jacket

Outdoor Gear Type: Rain Jackets

We’re out there in the backcountry with the Brella Rain Jacket, putting this rain jacket to the test.

Read the Gear Review

Urban Hiker Outdoor Guides

The Best Down Jackets of 2023

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.

Read the Outdoor Guide

The Best Fleece Jackets of 2023

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.

Read the Outdoor Guide

The 8 Best Backpacking Chairs of 2023

The best backpacking chairs will make camp way more comfortable. Lean back, get comfy, and prepare to find the right backpacking chair for you!

Read the Outdoor Guide

The Best 9 Rain Ponchos of 2023

Rain ponchos are the preferred rain protection of many outdoorsy folks. Why? Cause they’re versatile. Here are the best Rain Ponchos of 2021.

Read the Outdoor Guide

The Best Hiking Sandals of 2023

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!

Read the Outdoor Guide

The Best Coolers, Backpack Coolers, and Cooler Bags of 2023

Outdoor Gear Type: Coolers
Recommended For: Car Camper, Day Hiker, Urban Hiker

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.

Read the Outdoor Guide

The Best Hiking Shorts of 2023

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.

Read the Outdoor Guide

The Best Hiking Boots of 2023

We highlight the best hiking boots after researching and testing. Find the perfect lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight hiking boot for you!

Read the Outdoor Guide

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.

Read the Outdoor Guide

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.

Read the Outdoor Guide