Caro V 
Like all hiking gear, underwear needs to perform. Any layer that doesn’t dry quickly is uncomfortable, so a moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabric is essential. As always, that means opt for synthetic or wool and stay away from cotton. The six pairs of underwear weren’t chosen at random. Four of them because they were available at my … Read more
I don’t know what happened, but one day, none of my shoes fit anymore. Was it that nothing felt good after too much time in Birkenstocks? Or did a pair of shoes irritate my latent bunion? It doesn’t really matter. I had to find comfortable shoes, especially for situations where my Arizona’s don’t work – … Read more
Hardshell jackets keep out water and wind while letting out heat and sweat. They do that with a waterproof breathable membrane, commonly known as Gore-Tex. There are 2-layer and 3-layer membranes, plus the third choice, 2.5 layer. Here’s what that means and how to decide which one is the best for you. The invention of … Read more
There is a lot of dating advice out there, most of it is bad. The only true advice is to be yourself. If part you enjoys nature, a hiking date is an inexpensive and authentic way to have good time and get to know each other. Hiking on a date adds looking good to the … Read more
Spring weather can serve up anything from sun to snow so a spring hiking outfit needs to be ready for anything. A day can start out cool, warm up, and then cloud over before thunder showers or wind. Depending on the location, snow may even be on the trail or in the forecast. As always, … Read more
It’s not just sun’s out, guns out – it is sun’s out, toes out. For outdoor summer adventures, kid’s hiking sandals can be even more comfortable than hiking shoes or boots and there is no need to avoid water. Even better, they are easy to put on and take off for children of all ages, … Read more
A hiking vest is one of the most versatile pieces of outdoors gear the whole year round. Vests keep you warm during spring, fall, and cool summer nights and can also provide an extra layer in winter. Why a vest and not a jacket? Hiking vests provide most of the warmth of a jacket with … Read more
Whether you’re looking for entertainment or education, these 17 outdoors, climbing, and hiking movies do both. These adventures can inspire, instruct, or show exactly what not to do. They say truth is stranger than fiction and according to many of these stories, more interesting too. Most of these hiking movie picks are documentaries or based … Read more
Yes, waterproof socks exist and yes, they are really waterproof. Here’s when to wear them, when to skip them, and some of the best waterproof socks to wear hiking or anytime feet need to stay dry and warm. What makes waterproof socks waterproof? It is similar to wearing a plastic bags between two socks, and … Read more
If you’ve seen an episode of Survivor in the last 41 seasons, you’ve seen a hiking buff. It is a long tube of thin, stretchy fabric that can be worn and used in over a dozen different ways. Like Kleenex, buff is both a brand name as well as a product description. They can also … Read more
Hiking in the wintertime is a special experience – if you’re comfortable. If not, it can be miserable. Here’s how to put together a winter hiking outfit to stay warm and dry in all conditions. In addition to the outfit, consider what winter hiking gear you may need. Hiking in winter is more dangerous for … Read more
You’re only as happy as your feet is a good motto for hiking and some other parts of life too. Walking long distances, carrying a heavy pack, trail running, and even genetics increase the risk of getting painful blisters. The good news is wearing liner socks can stop blisters and hotspots before they start. Liner … Read more
The Boy Scout motto to “be prepared” is great advice for everyone, especially hikers. These gift ideas will help the hikers in your life be ready for anything. These gift picks make hiking more safe, comfortable, and fun. Some ideas are gear and clothing upgrades and some are gear a hiker may not have yet. … Read more
When the child carrier is outgrown, and sometimes before, it’s time for some kid’s hiking shoes. Hiking shoes, hiking boots, or trail runners are essential kids’ hiking gear but which one is the best choice? Hiking boots are the most common but there are many reasons to buy hiking shoes instead, especially because they weigh … Read more
My child would say that the most important kids hiking gear is candy, and it might be true but that’s not all. Beyond the bribes, here’s what you need to keep kids comfortable and protected on hikes. In addition to smaller versions of the hiking clothes, footwear, and gear that adults use, there are additional … Read more
Hiking with a dog is a very long walk. In addition to a leash, collar or harness, and poop bags, dog hiking gear can make walks safer and more comfortable. Hiking gear is more robust than usual dog walking gear. In addition, visibility is an asset, whether it is a bright color that stands out … Read more
Hiking outfits for women need to be comfortable and functional but they should also look good. Between new outdoor brands starting all the time and established go-to favorites, it is easier than ever to find clothes that feel and look good for short walks and long hikes. As much as has changed in style and … Read more
The best camera for hiking is the one that you use. There’s no point in carrying a heavy, or even lightweight, camera only to leave it in its case. That’s why we have selected the best cameras for all levels of photography knowledge and hiking ability. There are five categories from a smartphone to mirrorless … Read more