My Hiking & Backpacking Footwear: What I Wear in Every Season
This guide covers what to look for when choosing hiking footwear, along with my favorite trail runners and hiking shoes for different conditions.
Sleep Baselayers for Camping and Backpacking (2026)
My favorite sleep baselayers for camping and backpacking — from ultralight fleece layers to warmer options for colder nights.
How to Layer for Hiking: Creating a Lightweight, Flexible System
Lightweight layers make it easier to adjust to changing weather and activity levels, helping you stay comfortable from the start of your hike to the finish.
Hiking Mid-Layers I Recommend (2026)
Mid-layers for hiking provide lightweight insulation and breathability, helping regulate body temperature on the trail. These are the hoodies and pullovers I use and recommend.
My Favorite Insulated Jackets for Hiking & Backpacking (2026)
Insulated jackets are a key component in a good layering system for hiking. When choosing jackets, I look for options that are lightweight and pack down small so they are easy to stash in a backpack.
What to Wear for Cold Weather Hiking
While we tend to think of needing bulkier outerwear in the cold weather, wearing lightweight layers provides options for different types of conditions encountered.
My Favorite Women’s Hiking Tops (2026)
My favorite hiking tops are lightweight, provide full coverage from the sun, and feature a high amount of breathability and wicking properties so I don't get overheated when exerting.
Review: Alpine Fit Fastpacker Alpha 90 Hoodie
A versatile mid-layer made with ultralight Alpha Direct fabric, this women’s-specific hoodie provides warmth and breathability without adding much weight or bulk.
Review: Outdoor Vitals Zulu Down Jacket
An ultralight down jacket with excellent warmth for its weight, the Zulu uses a seamless baffle design and high-loft Muscovy duck down for efficient, reliable insulation.
Review: REI Flash Shade Hoodie
The REI Flash Shade Hoodie combines UPF 50+ sun protection with an open, breathable fabric that helps keep me cool on warm-weather hikes.
What to Wear Backpacking
Learn how to layer when backpacking to stay warm, dry, and comfortable, without overpacking. With the right layering system, you can carry less while being ready for changing conditions on the trail.
Review: BRANWYN Merino Wool Underwear & Bras
BRANWYN’s seamless merino wool underwear and bras offer soft comfort with effective moisture management and odor resistance, making them a strong choice for outdoor activities.
My Top Picks for New Outdoor Apparel & Footwear (2025)
As an outdoor gear reviewer, I test new items year-round. These are my top outdoor apparel & footwear picks from 2025 — favorites I’ve personally used and recommend.
My Favorite Women’s Hiking Pants & Leggings (2026)
These are my favorite pants and leggings for hiking, with options from Mammut, REI, Prana, Kuhl, and Smartwool.
Women’s Hiking Bras and Underwear I Recommend (2026)
Choosing the best women's underwear for you is a decidedly personal choice based on preferences. These are my favorite bras and underwear for hiking and backpacking.
My Top Picks for REI Brand Outdoor Apparel (2026)
REI offers a wide variety of their own brand of outdoor apparel. These are the high-quality REI layers that I regularly use and recommend for hiking, backpacking and camping.
Rain Layers for Hiking: What I Look For (2026)
In the Pacific Northwest, waterproof rain gear is essential for hiking year-round. These are the pieces I personally use and recommend, with ultralight and four-season options.
Review: Nortiv8 Whitney Trail Running Shoes
A surprisingly capable budget trail running shoe with a wide toe box, breathable mesh uppers, and good traction at a price that's hard to beat.
Best Hiking Socks for 2026: Stay Comfortable, Dry, and Blister-Free on the Trail
The type of socks worn while hiking can have a big impact on the comfort of your feet. Learn what to look for and view a list of my favorite socks.
Review: Himali Nebula Wind Shell
The Nebula is a versatile ultralight layer that adds wind protection while remaining breathable enough to help prevent overheating while hiking.
Review: Himali Monsoon Rain Jacket
The Himali Monsoon Hardshell Jacket is designed as a true four-season shell — built to handle everything from steady rain to snow and variable mountain weather.
Review: Salewa Pedroc 2 Max Hiking Shoes
The Pedroc 2 Max blends the agility and comfort of a trail runner with the stability, grip, and durability of a more supportive hiking shoe.
Review: Berghaus Rain-Motion Jacket
Built for movement, the Berghaus Rain-Motion combines 3-layer Pertex Shield protection with impressive breathability, creating a lightweight rain shell for active days on trail.
Review: Berghaus Staindrop Hike Jacket
A micro-grid fleece with excellent breathability, the Staindrop Hike Jacket adds light warmth for active hiking without trapping excess heat on trail.