Gear you actually need for your next hike

Before you hit the trail, make sure your gear’s doing its job — not just looking cute for the ‘gram. Real hikers know: comfort and safety > everything. Here’s the lineup that’ll keep you moving and thriving out there.

1. Boots That Mean Business Forget fashion sneakers. The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX and La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX are waterproof, breathable, and built for rugged terrain. Break them in before you go unless you love blisters (trust us, you don’t).

2. Pack Smart A solid backpack makes all the difference. The Osprey Atmos AG 65 or Deuter Aircontact Lite balance weight perfectly and keep pressure off your shoulders. Think of it as your portable home base.

3. Layers = Life Mountain weather changes faster than your mood mid-hike. Start with a Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily base layer, add the Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody, and top with the Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket. Boom—dry, warm, and unstoppable.

4. Stay Hydrated, Stay Happy The HydraPak Shape-Shift 3L Reservoir keeps water flowing while you move. Pair it with a Sawyer Squeeze Filter so you can refill from streams safely. Dehydration = rookie mistake.

5. Safety Stuff (Don’t Skip This) No service? No problem. The Garmin inReach Mini 2 lets you text via satellite, while a Petzl Actik Core Headlamp and Leatherman Wave+ multitool handle the rest.

Bottom line: the right gear won’t just get you through the hike — it’ll make you love it. Gear up, hit the trail and go find your next view.