This part of our guide focuses on equipment, gear, and apparel designed for hiking or backpacking.
Hiking and backpacking are as dependent upon design and innovation as on fitness and exploration. Whether planning a day hike or an extended overnight adventure, the gear you take with you can make all the difference. Even if you plan on being on the trail for only a few hours, the equipment, gear, and apparel you take with you could keep you alive if something goes awry or ensure your comfort otherwise. Nature can be unpredictable.
The backpack is at the forefront of hiking equipment. Even if you're planning for a day hike, you should bring some essential equipment with you in the event that you are hurt, become lost, or encounter unanticipated harsh conditions.
Traditional backpacks, known for durable fabrics and robust frames, offer secure carriage for heavier items and provides features like padded shoulder straps and adjustable hip belts that distribute weight evenly.
In contrast, the ultralight category has emerged as a favorite among long-distance backpackers, using cutting-edge materials such as Dyneema and Cuben fiber to trim every unnecessary gram while maintaining structural integrity. This shift toward minimalism has spurred innovation in carrying methods, from integrated hydration systems that eliminate the need for bulky water bladders to streamlined waist packs designed to keep essentials at arm's reach.
It's a choice between load-bearing capacity and mobility.
Complementing the carry systems is a range of apparel designed specifically for the rigors of trail life. Hiking clothing is all about layered functionality. Base layers, often made of merino wool or high-performance synthetics, provide moisture management and thermal regulation. Mid-layers add insulation without significantly increasing bulk, while outer shells, made from waterproof or windproof materials, shield against unpredictable weather.
Traditional hiking boots offer robust ankle support and rugged grip essential for rough terrain, whereas ultralight trail runners emphasize agility and reduced fatigue over long distances. It is a science of balancing protection, durability, and weight-saving innovation.
For overnight stays in the wild, shelters are imperative. Backpackers can either carry a shelter with them or include the means of building one. Traditional tents, with their sturdy poles and reinforced fabrics, provide robust protection against adverse weather and varying ground conditions, but they are heavy. Ultralight options, ranging from streamlined tents to versatile tarps and minimalist bivy sacks, are designed to minimize weight without sacrificing the core elements of shelter.
Other hiking or backpacking equipment may include portable stoves, compact water filters, reliable navigation tools (such as GPS devices and traditional compasses), and multi-functional tools. These products enhance the hiker's efficiency and provide safety while navigating well-trodden paths and unfamiliar wilderness. Advancements in material science and product design enable even these ancillary items to embody the ultralight ethos.
Journeying through nature is as much about the thoughtfulness of the gear you bring as it is about the steps taken along a trail. Traditional gear offers time-tested durability that may serve well in unpredictable conditions, while ultralight innovations challenge conventional limits to allow for added mobility.
Websites representing products, manufacturers, and retailers specializing in serving the hiking and backpacking industry, as well as product review sites, are appropriate for this category.
Recommended Resources
Created by a lifelong hiker in 2012, the website aims to help backpackers, hikers, and campers choose the appropriate gear. Dave Collins began the site with two tutorial video series, which were soon expanded to include in-depth gear reviews and trip guides. Today, the site comprises hundreds of articles on hiking, backpacking, camping gear, winter gear, apparel, footwear, backpacks, bags, and accessories, all independently tested and categorized. Contacts are included.
https://www.cleverhiker.com/
Founded in 2012 in Okotoks, Alberta, the Canadian company specializes in ultralight outdoor gear. It offers a variety of products, including trekking poles, sleeping pads, and ultralight tents. Its local business has flourished with online sales throughout North America. The company's history and contacts are featured, and its online catalog features sale items and new gear arrivals; alternatively, shoppers may browse by brand or product category. In-store appointments may be booked.
https://geartrade.ca/
Produced in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, Hilltop Packs specializes in producing ultralight, custom-printed backpacking gear, including backpacks, fanny packs, accessories, food bags, and dry bags, including personalized designs to make outdoor adventures more unique. Its product catalog, affiliate program, warranty and return policies, and employment opportunities are featured on its website, along with an introduction to the "Backpackers Blitz," an interactive livestream show for hikers.
https://hilltoppacks.com/
Hyperlite is headquartered in Biddeford, Maine. While they primarily sell their products online, they also partner with various outdoor gear shops across the country where their gear can be purchased. Hyperlite specializes in ultralight, durable outdoor gear designed for backpacking, fastpacking, and other backcountry adventures. Their products are made with Dyneema, a strong fiber that balances weight, durability, and water resistance. Its affiliate and wholesale programs are outlined.
https://hyperlitemountaingear.com/
Located on Whidbey Island, Washington, Light Hiking Gear provides customers with lightweight backpacking, hiking, and camping gear, designed to enhance comfort and improve mobility. Its collection of hiking and camping gear include the award-winning "Aarn Balance Packs, Couloir ski and alpine packs, Conifer hiking packs, Circum travel bags, and other hiking and camping accessories, each designed to maximize space and comfort. Size guides and other helpful features are offered.
https://lighthikinggear.com/
Headquartered in Pretoria, South Africa, Naturehike is an online retailer and manufacturer of outdoor gear. It specializes in ultralight equipment for hiking, backpacking, camping, biking, and running. Naturehike offers a wide range of products, including tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, and trekking poles. Products may be browsed by category (Hike & Camp, Glamp, Clothing, Footwear) or by new arrivals or bundle deals. Information on becoming a reseller of its products is included.
https://www.naturehike.co.za/
Based in Melbourne, Florida, Zpacks specializes in manufacturing ultralight backpacking gear, offering a range of tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, clothing, and accessories designed for long-distance hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its gear is known for being lightweight and durable, often using Dyneema Composite Fabric, which is strong and water-resistant. Its catalog is sorted into Shelters, Backpacks, Sleeping Bags, Clothing, Accessories, and Bargains, available for purchase online.
https://zpacks.com/
Doing business as REI, Recreational Equipment, Inc., is an American retail and outdoor recreation services corporation. Formerly governed as a consumers' co-operative, it continues to brand itself as such. It operates retail stores in 41 states, mail-order catalogs, and Internet sales. The hiking section of its online catalog allows shoppers to browse by product category or brand. Additionally, there are staff picks and recommended items. The benefits to membership are outlined.
https://www.rei.com/h/hiking
Locally owned in Tucson, Arizona, Summit Hut is an outdoor gear retailer specializing in hiking, camping, and backpacking equipment. In business for more than fifty years, they operate two locations in Tucson and an online shopping site. A profile of the business, its history, and affiliate partner program are featured, along with its product catalog, which is sorted by brand, by sex, kids, footwear, packs, technology, hiking and camping, climbing, and travel.
https://www.summithut.com/
Trekitt is a UK-based outdoor and mountaineering retailer that specializes in clothing, footwear, and equipment for adventure seekers. It offers a wide range of products for hiking, camping, or climbing, including those from top brands like Rab, Montane, and Patagonia. Shoppers may browse by brand, sustainable products, rentals, outlet sales, or by product type (clothing, footwear, rucksacks, camping, and equipment). Its delivery and returns policies are discussed.
https://www.trekitt.co.uk/
