The Best Hiking Clothes, Shoes and Gear For Summer Treks
Whether it's your first hike ever or you're a hiking pro with several trails saved on your Pinterest board, you've got to dress for the occasion. That means comfy, sweat-wicking gear that will take you from point A to point B and everywhere else in between.
Long gone are the days when hiking gear was synonymous with crunchy, with only a few brands — which put out gear in a few muddy colorways — to choose from. We've rounded up functional (and super cute) hiking clothing that will have you feeling like a boss on the trails. From the comfiest, sturdiest hiking shoes to lightweight backpacks, we've got you covered. And we've included products from your favorite brands, including Girlfriend Collective, Patagonia, Teva, and more. With this list of the best hiking clothes and shoes, you'll be fully outfitted in no time. All you've got to do is plan your next adventure.
— Additional reporting by Jade Esmeralda
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Best Hiking Sports Bra
Girlfriend Collective Paloma Sports Bra ($45)
Once you've decided on a trail, make sure you have quality gear to hike in, like this sports bra from Girlfriend Collective. It's a full-coverage, moisture-wicking bra, which means you won't have to worry about staying cool and dry. Plus, it's made from 79 percent recycled plastic bottles, making your hike that much more sustainable.
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Best Hiking Leggings
Zella Live In High Waist Leggings ($40, originally $59)
Forgot the little black dress; every closet needs an LBL, or little black leggings. We like these from Zella because they're stretchy, high waisted, and moisture wicking, which make them perfect for a weekend hike.
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Best Hiking Sandals
Teva Hurricane Drift Sandal ($45)
We've had our eyes on these sandals for quite some time. The Hurricane Drift has an outsole designed for a variety of terrains, and they're good for long hikes and crossing streams. But skip them for super rocky or cold terrains, when you'll want your toes enclosed.
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Best Hiking Backpack
The North Face Isabella 3.0 Backpack ($89)
Stash all your snacks, sunscreen, water, and gadgets in this highly rated backpack from The North Face. The Isabella 3.0 was designed for durable, all-day comfort and can easily go from the city to the trails, making it a worthwhile investment.
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Best Hiking Pants
Rab Elevation Pants ($95)
One of the most important things to have on any hike is a comfortable pair of bottoms. And we're loving these hybrid leggings/pants from Rab. They feature a double-weave fabric that offers four-way stretch and a durable water-repellent finish to help shed moisture. Plus, we can't forget about the thigh pocket for stashing small items.
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Best Hiking Shorts
Prana Halle Short II ($28-$69)
If you're a shorts person, you've got to try these bottoms from prAna. They're moisture-wicking and made from recycled performance fabric, and they have UPF 50+. Wearers love the midrise cut and overall comfort.
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The Best Hiking Shoe
Merrell x House of the Dragon Collection ($170)
Avid hikers and fans of Westeros alike will love this new House of the Dragon collection from Merrell. The three special edition designs include the Agility Peak 5, representing House Targaryen and launching on August 17th, the Moab Speed 2 for House Hightower, available August 25th, and Moab 3, designed for House Velaryon, drop on September 7th. Design highlights for each include a golden dragon lace holder, family crest printed on the insole, and subtle dragon scale patterning. Step out on your next adventure, in style, on the next set of rugged trails.
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Best Hydration Pack
CamelBak HydroBak Hydration Pack, 50 Ounce ($45)
Rookie or not, you've got to stay hydrated on your hike. Don't want to carry a bottle around? We recommend this hydration pack from CamelBak. It's designed to hold enough water for a two-hour adventure. Plus, the pack features a zippered pocket for storage and ventilated harness for comfort.
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Buff Sun Bucket Hat
Buff Sun Bucket Hat ($40)
If you're hiking after sunrise, you might need some shade. Stay cool with this sun bucket hat from Buff. With a wide brim and ventilation holes along the side, this hat will keep you cool and protected from the sun. Reviewers rave that this hat provides good coverage for the face, ear, and neck, while still being lightweight.
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Best Hiking Socks
Feideer Walking Hiking Socks ($24 for a pack of five)
Show your feet some TLC with these breathable, moisture-wicking hiking socks. With more than 2,600 reviews on Amazon and an average 4.7-star rating, wearers report they love the cushioned footbed and arch support so much that they're wearing them both on and off the trails. And if high cut isn't your style, these hiking socks come in a lower-cut three-pack option, too.
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Best Hiking Shirt
Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Short-Sleeve Shirt ($45)
Patagonia's Capilene Cool technology was designed to wick away moisture and breath well, while the antiodor technology is supposed to keep the funk at bay during those hot summer hikes. Its stretchy construction also allows for easy movement and comfort as you climb.
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Adjustable Anti-Shock Hiking/Walking/Trekking Poles
Bafx Adjustable Anti Shock Hiking/Walking/Trekking Poles ($24)
If you're worried about your joints ahead of your trek, we recommend packing a pair of trekking poles. These adjustable ones sold on Amazon allow you to twist and lock them to just the right height for any trail situation or any size adult or child.
Tamara Pridgett was the associate editor for PS Fitness. Likes: box jumps, chai lattes, and sprinting. She's a NASM-certified personal trainer and a Precision Nutrition level 1 coach. She's also a Division 1 All-American sprinter.
Jade Esmeralda, MS, CSCS, is a Staff Writer, Health & Fitness. A life-long martial artist and dancer, Jade has a strong passion for strength & conditioning, sports science, and human performance. She graduated with a Master of Science degree in Exercise Science and Strength and Conditioning from George Washington University.