Take a hike: Our top hiking products to help make your next trip a breeze

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our site, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

Earlier this spring, on a hiking trail in the middle of Los Angeles, we found ourselves sliding into a shortcut on the way to the main dirt track. It wasn't a serious drop by any means—just enough of a rocky, uneven drop to get our heart rates up—but it reminded us of one more important issue: we simply hadn't prepared for the elements. Instead, we could wear a pair of proper hiking boots that we had back home instead of wearing our running shoes.

Of course, finding the right hiking gear depends a lot on where you're hiking and what time of year it is. The difference in terrain can make or break what hiking shoes or boots you go with, the clothes you decide to wear, and the accessories that could protect you from the elements.

At a glance: Our top hiking products

After all, with a little preparation—and a little internet scrolling—your next hike is practically a walk in the park. Looking for new hiking gear? Below we've selected some of our top recommendations.

in this article

So where do you start when choosing which hiking gear is essential? “Appropriate clothing and gear for a hike will vary by region, season, terrain, and length of hike,” says Ingrid Johnson, product information specialist at REI. “The best way to learn to optimize besides experience is to talk to an avid hiker in your area or where you will be traveling.” Johnson recommends outdoor experts at REI or contact “range stations and other outdoor-oriented visitor information centers.”

When it comes to shorter hikes, it's still important to arrive on the trail fully prepared, from preparing with simple medical supplies or light layers. And that goes for casual hikes as well.

“Even if you're no more than a mile or two from the parking lot, you're farther from help and amenities than you are in the city,” Johnson says. “Always have food and water, a light jacket (or one more layer than the weather requires), a first aid kit, a pocket knife or small multi-tool, and a mylar emergency blanket.

Johnson continues: “While not necessary everywhere or for everyone, hiking it's a wonderful tool to help balance and reduce fatigue if the ground is rough or slippery or steeper than what your body is used to walking on every day. And a map. If you can't get your hands on a paper, take a photo of the trailhead sign or a screenshot of an online one before you lose reception, as well as any written trail descriptions you can find.”

For longer hikes, however, you'll want to make sure to pack a few extra items. “Extra layers,” suggests Johnson, “including a hat and gloves in case the weather turns or you're caught out more than you expected due to a route-finding problem, an injury, or simply not being able to tear yourself away from the serenity and incredible views. » Just don't forget food and plenty of water.

As for what hikers can leave at home, Johnson says to skip any “electronics that aren't necessary for your safety or the peace of mind of your loved ones. It's very easy to get distracted from your presence in nature or compromise the experience of other hikers around you.” And, of course, our gear expert leaves one final tip when preparing for your upcoming hikes: “Take only photos, leave only footprints, make great memories, and have fun.”

The best hiking gear and hiking essentials

With Johnson's advice in mind, along with our own testing and hiking experience, here are some hiking essentials to consider on your next trip to the trails this summer and beyond.

How we chose the hiking essentials

After consulting with experts like Johnson, reviews from top users, and testing our own products after many hikes over the years, we've selected our top essential hiking recommendations. We've also selected our list of hiking essentials based on whether they can withstand both short and long hikes and a variety of weather and environmental conditions, from wet areas to dry, rough terrain.