Check Out the Best Hiking Gear for All Types of Outings, Tested by Our Team (2024)

Built to handle the harshest and most unforgiving terrain, the Merrell Moab 3 Mid won our praises for its lightweight, durable construction; out-of-the-box, true-to-size comfort; and ample arch support delivered by the Kinetic Fit Advanced footbed, which contours to your feet. A Vibram TC5+ outsole provides optimal traction on both wet and dry surfaces, and finds confident purchase in snow as well, with a protective rubber heel and toe cap to avoid stubbing on uneven terrain.

During testing, we noted that the gold-rated leather mixed with breathable mesh panels in the uppers proved to be 100 percent waterproof, while the sturdy laces made it easy to dial the optimal fit, with plenty of arch support that provides a stable ride whether you’re climbing or navigating a steep descent. When the boots got muddy, they were easy to clean, which extends the life of the product. They also come in four different colorways.

Take one look at the Cairn Adventure Sandals and you’ll know Bedrock Sandals approached designing hiking footwear from a different angle. The patented Y-shape strap features three adjustment points to help you find the optimal fit, while still keeping the sandal low-profile and light. It rests on a Vibran Regolith outsole, which provides solid grip on dry surfaces — the brand advises those hiking in wet conditions should consider upgrading to the Cairn Pro line, though we noticed that the sandals still found purchase on wet granite and performed well on slippery conditions.

We admit we suffered some initial sticker shock from the higher-than-average price, but after several test hikes, the cost felt 100 percent justified. A variety of colors help you find a pair that fits your style, from black to burgundy to patterns like dusty lilac and bristlecone brown. If you’re looking for a pair of light, ultra-breathable, low-profile hiking sandals with confident grip, you’ve found your future favorite.

If you’re looking to shave off ounces and don’t need ankle support typical to hiking boots, go with the Merrell Speed Eco Hiking Shoe, a low-profile option that doesn’t cut back on the essentials. We started with a modest hike to see if the shoes required a break-in period and were pleased to discover that they felt great out of the box, with no hot spots. That comfort comes, in part, from an EVA foam midsole that cradles the feet, while the mesh uppers keep things cool. A bellows tongue keeps out debris and the thick laces were easy to adjust.

Merrell’s proprietary outsole gripped confidently, especially on rocky, uneven terrain, and little details like a carabiner-compatible heel loop and natural odor treatment round out the trail-ready features. You do, however, sacrifice waterproof protection. The Speed Eco also has a solid eco-friendly story, using loads of recycled materials in the uppers, laces and webbing, lining, footbed, and outsole.

Tested across more than 100 miles in a variety of terrain, La Sportiva’s Jackal II Boas proved to be durable, comfortable, and fully supportive. Built with long-distance adventures in mind, the shoe boasts a built-in gaiter to keep debris out, and twin Boa lacing dials make it easy to find the optimal fit and adjust on the fly. Inside, Infinitoo cushioning tech provides less energy expenditure and solid bounce-back, and the super-sticky outsole compound works with a slanted, opposite-angle lug pattern to reduce impact and improve traction. We noticed that they run about a half-size small, so you may want to size up slightly. The breathable mesh uppers kept things breezy, but you do sacrifice waterproof protection — however, they dry super-quickly.

Thanks to a 3D foam back panel made with supportive, multi-dense foam, the Gregory Swift 22 H2O backpack is the most comfortable pack we’ve ever used. It comes with a 3D Hydro quick-drying, soft-molded, two-liter water reservoir with an integrated handle/drying hanger and an inline hose that quickly disconnects to let you refill the bottle without having to unthread the main hose. The vessel rests in a dedicated sleeve at the back of the pack, which helps keep your pack organized, and a magnetic hose clip on the sternum strap keeps the hose out of the way while moving.

Boasting 22 liters of storage integrated throughout its cavernous top-zipper-accessed main pocket, it provides plenty of space for the gear you need on a long day hike, with a zippered top quick-access pocket, a side zippered pocket, and two mesh bottle pockets on either side. Adjustable shoulder straps accommodate hikers of various heights and the sternum strap slides up and down, optimizing your fit and comfort level. Indeed, the pack always stayed secure during testing, even while engaging in some rock scrambling.

To those who have yet to become merino wool converts, it may seem odd to embrace the fabric even on mild days. But merino works in all conditions, keeping you warm when it’s cold, and cool after you start to sweat and the fabric wicks in the moisture. And unlike lesser fabrics, it keeps you warm when you wet it out in colder weather (oh, and it doesn’t retain body odors).

Our pick, the Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer, is the ideal against-the-skin layer whenever you need a bit more insulation or would benefit from its many performance-oriented features. We found that both the crew top and matching leggings fit comfortably and close to the skin, and are thick enough to wear solo on milder days. The tops layer seamlessly with mid- and outer layers, and the leggings work great with hiking pants, though if you prefer to hike in tight-fitting pants or leggings, some bunching should be expected. The wicking properties worked as promised, and the overall construction — both in the fabric itself and in the seams — proved durable after multiple uses.

Designed to look equally good on the trail or the street, the Kühl Stretch Voyagr Jacket delivers a slim profile, but with room for layers thanks to the stretchy fabric, which also does well to move with you mid-hike. It employs the brand’s own waterproof/breathable fabrics, which fend off water and don’t overheat; a durable, two-way zipper to lock out the elements; and a fully adjustable hood to help dial the perfect, protective fit. You also get two zippered hand pockets and one zippered chest pocket on the inside — ample storage for quick-grab items without over-engineering everything. Though we believe some heavier-weight jackets feel a bit smoother against the skin, the soft-touch membrane was still comfortable enough to wear over a T-shirt, and hem adjustments add to the customization. We also loved that the back of the jacket dropped a bit more, adding extra protection. Made of polyester, it felt durable and handled the testing without issue, and — perhaps best of all — this reasonably priced jacket comes in a range of colors.

Equipped with 15 percent DEET to repel mosquitoes for up to five hours in a single application, Off’s Active Insect Repellent won accolades for ease of use, mild scent, and reliable protection even while sweating, which makes it ideal for hiking and other high-octane activities. It also repels biting flies, gnats, ticks, chiggers, and fleas. The aerosol application makes it easy to get reliable coverage on both your skin and clothes, with a useful nozzle that helps you control the repellent output. Post application, the product doesn’t leave your skin sticky or greasy or leave any sort of stains or residue on your clothes.

The Raw Elements SPF 30 Certified Natural Sunscreen does a whole lot more than merely protecting you from sun damage. It packs in biologically active antioxidants, vitamins, and extracts to nourish your skin. You get water-resistant UVA-UVB broad spectrum protection for up to 80 minutes in a single application. We did notice a modest musty smell during the application process, but it dissipated after 15 minutes, and the application was clean and easy, without streaks, and didn’t transfer to clothes or leave any stains. It’s also reef-safe certified.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the best clothes to wear for hiking?

  “I think of clothing in layers and try to choose lightweight and packable, whenever possible,” Gohn says. “If you have a comfort item that would easily improve the day, definitely bring it. My one must-have is a warm hat if temps are below 50; cold ears are my nemeses.”

  Start with a short-sleeved base layer and then add a mid-layer or vest (depending on conditions), and partner that with a high-quality rain shell. This system will let you remove and add layers as conditions change or as you start to heat up mid-hike. As for the lower half, a pair of lightweight hiking pants add a bit of extra coverage (nice protection against the sun and any trail hazards like poison ivy or oak) and aren’t as warm as a pair of jeans.

  The adage “cotton kills” can be an overstatement if you’re on a short hike, but it’s undeniable that cotton wets out quickly, takes forever to dry, and — most troubling — won’t keep you warm when you get wet. Instead, go with either high-performance merino wool or less-expensive synthetic fabrics. Both will wick sweat to keep you dry and help regulate your internal temp. The same goes for hiking socks: a high-quality pair will last a long time and provide the comfort and wicking support your feet need.

• What are the most important things to bring hiking?

  In addition to the clothes on your body, be sure you have a hiking backpack that can carry your water (either in a bottle or in a hydration reservoir), snacks, rain jacket, and any other extra layers called for by the weather. On sunny days, grab your sunglasses and sunblock. And a simple first-aid kit for common ailments like blisters and minor cuts and scrapes is always a solid idea. Beyond that, it depends on what additional comforts you may desire or if you want to add a bit more weight for things like a multi-tool, water filter, or other accessories.

  “I usually travel light and only bring what will add to the day, rather than bring things just because,” says Gohn. “Sometimes I'll bring a monocular or my journal. Sometimes I'll bring my book if I'm not in a rush and know I'll find a nice spot to chill out. When I'm feeling it, my backpacking hammock hits the spot. While on trail, hiking poles not only prevent falls, but improve my pace when I want to push and start sweating. Once they become an extension of your arm, they help you fall into that flow while you're gliding over terrain.”

• How do you pack a hiking backpack?

  Place heavier items at the bottom of the pack so that they ride low, and balance out the sides by using the exterior side pockets for your water bottles or by sliding in your hydration reservoir (if you’re using one). Then add any extra layers, followed by any food or snacks you’re bringing. Using stuff sacks or dry sacks to separate out your kit also helps keep things organized — food in one, gloves and a hat in another, electronics in a third one, etc. Smaller internal pockets are great to secure things you don’t need mid-hike, like your car keys and wallet/ID, while secure outside pockets are great for smartphones. And try to pack your rain shell near the top, which makes it easy to find if the skies go dark.

The Best Hiking Shoes for Women of 2024, Tested and Reviewed