My Hiking Gear Essentials
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Embarking on a hiking adventure can be both exhilarating and daunting, especially if you're new to the trails. As someone who is passionate about the great outdoors, and getting people out into the outdoors, I've curated a list of my favourite hiking gear that has stood the test of time and trails. Whether you're planning a day hike or a multi-day trek, these are some of my favourite pieces of gear that when they wear out, I’ll buy the exact same one to replace it! Let's dive into the gear that I swear by!
Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie: Light, comfortable, sun protection!
One of my absolute favourite pieces of hiking apparel is the Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie. This lightweight, breathable hoodie is perfect for layering and offers excellent sun protection with its UPF 15 rating. It's made from a moisture-wicking material that keeps you cool and dry, even during the most strenuous hikes.
The Echo Hoodie is incredibly versatile – it’s my go-to sun hoodie throughout the Interior BC heat waves to keep the UV rays off my shoulders! The thumb loops and fitted hood provide extra coverage, making it ideal for those early morning starts or breezy summits. Plus, it comes in a variety of colours, so you can choose one that suits your style!
Kula Cloth: A Game-Changer for Female Hikers
Okay girls, let's talk about the Kula Cloth. If you haven't heard of it yet, you're in for a treat. This antimicrobial pee cloth is a sustainable and hygienic alternative to toilet paper. It's designed specifically for female hikers, providing a practical solution for when nature calls.
The Kula Cloth is compact, lightweight, and attaches easily to your backpack with a snap. Trust me, once you try the Kula Cloth, you'll wonder how you ever hiked without it. No need to worry about packing out toilet paper!!
BearVault: Safe and Secure Food Storage
If you're planning an overnight hike or a multi-day trek, food storage becomes crucial. Enter the BearVault, a must-have for keeping your food safe from wildlife. This bear-resistant container is designed to store your food securely, preventing bears and other critters from getting to it.
The BearVault is made from durable, transparent polycarbonate, allowing you to see the contents without opening it. It features a wide opening for easy access and a screw-on lid that's easy for humans to open but challenging for animals. Plus, it's approved by national parks, so you can rest assured that your food is safe and secure!
Katadyn BeFree Water Filtration System: Hydration Made Easy
Staying hydrated is essential on any hike, and the Katadyn BeFree Water Filtration System makes it easy to have clean drinking water on the go. This compact and lightweight system includes a flexible bottle with an integrated filter that removes bacteria and protozoa from natural water sources.
The BeFree system is simple to use – just fill the bottle from a stream or lake, screw on the cap, and sip through the filter. It has a fast flow rate, so you won't have to wait long for a refreshing drink. My favourite part is that you don’t have to wait to drink the water like with purification tablets! Plus, it's easy to clean and maintain, making it a reliable choice for any hiking adventure.
Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX Hiking Boots: Ultimate Comfort and Support
Footwear is arguably the most critical piece of hiking gear, and the Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX Hiking Boots are my go-to choice. These boots offer exceptional comfort, support, and durability, making them perfect for long hikes and rugged terrain. I’ve been wearing these hiking boots for 3 years in various conditions and they are still in great condition, talk about durability!
The GORE-TEX lining provides waterproof protection while allowing your feet to breathe, keeping them dry and comfortable in any weather. The sturdy sole offers excellent traction, and the high ankle support helps prevent injuries on uneven ground. Whether you're tackling rocky trails or muddy paths, these boots will keep your feet happy and secure.
Supergoop! Sunscreen: Essential Sun Protection
Protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays is crucial, especially when spending long hours outdoors. Supergoop! Sunscreen is my top pick for effective and lightweight sun protection. This broad-spectrum sunscreen offers SPF 50 coverage, shielding your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
Supergoop! is known for its non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly, leaving no white residue. It's also water-resistant, making it ideal for sweaty hikes or unexpected rain showers. The mini Supergoop travel packaging is my favourite to take with my on hikes, it fits perfectly into my backpack’s pockets without all the added weight of a full size sunscreen.
Smith Bobcat Sunglasses: Stylish and Functional Eye Protection
No hiking gear list would be complete without a good pair of sunglasses, and the Smith Bobcat Sunglasses are my top choice. These stylish and functional shades provide excellent UV protection and are designed to stay put, even during vigorous activities.
The Bobcat Sunglasses feature polarized lenses that reduce glare and enhance visibility, making them perfect for sunny trails and snowy peaks. The lightweight frame and comfortable fit ensure you can wear them all day without discomfort. Plus, they come in various colours and styles, so you can find a pair that matches your outdoor aesthetic.
Choosing the right hiking gear can transform your outdoor adventures from challenging to enjoyable. The Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie, Kula Cloth, BearVault, Katadyn BeFree Water Filtration System, Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX Hiking Boots, Supergoop! Sunscreen, and Smith Bobcat Sunglasses are my go-to essentials that I wholeheartedly recommend. I’ve tested these products out through various conditions and always come back to them!
Remember, the most important thing is to get out there and start exploring. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting, these gear recommendations will help you feel prepared and confident on the trails. So grab your gear, lace up your boots, and embark on your next hiking adventure with confidence!!!
Happy hiking!
Find these products on: Amazon Canada and RockPorch!
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