Hiking Articles
(112 results)- Buying Guides
The Best Hiking Socks
Every hiker needs a pair of moisture-wicking hiking socks. We tested 14 pairs of hiking socks on the PNW trails to find our favorites.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose Binoculars
Numbers on binoculars can be a little confusing; this article explains basic specs, why prices differ so much and how to choose based on your end use.
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How to Choose and Use Trekking Poles and Hiking Staffs
Learn how to shop for trekking poles: You'll consider weight, price, shock absorption, shaft construction and the type of grip.
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How to Choose a Backpack
Learn how to choose a backpack based on trip length and pack capacity, as well as fit, frame type and features.
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What to Wear Backpacking
Learn which clothes to bring backpacking in order to keep your pack light while making sure you'll have everything you need.
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How to Choose Sleeping Pads
Sleeping pads offer cushioning and insulation for sound sleeping. Learn about types of pads, insulation, R-value and other key features.
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The Best Hiking Boots
Finding a hiking boot is easy. Finding the perfect hiking boot is much harder. We polled REI staff to find their favorite hiking boots.
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How to Choose a Hammock
Hammocks are a comfortable and popular way to hang out in Nature. Some are also great for backpacking. Learn how to choose one that's right for you.
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How to Choose Child Carriers
Is your baby ready for a child carrier? Learn what to look for, including types of carriers, key features, fit and safety tips.
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How to Choose a Water Filter or Purifier
Learn about backcountry water risks, ways to treat water and factors to consider when choosing a filter, purifier or other treatment method.
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How to Choose and Use Gaiters
Gaiters come in different shapes and sizes. Learn how to choose and use gaiters for hiking, mountaineering and trail running.
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How to Choose Hiking Socks
Choosing the right hiking socks will keep your feet happy during the long haul. This article covers sock height, cushioning, fabric and fit.
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How to Choose Hiking Boots
Use our guide to find the right hiking boots for you. Includes expert tips from heel to toe and info on boot types, materials and fit.
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How to Choose Hydration Packs
Which hydration pack is best? Learn about reservoir size, gear capacity and other key pack features for cyclists, runners, hikers and more.
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What to Wear Hiking
Learn about clothes that can help you hike more comfortably, and get strategies for cutting the weight and bulk of clothing in your pack.
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How to Choose Crampons
Learn how to choose crampons for snow walking, mountaineering and ice climbing, and the benefits of hybrid, step-in and strap-on crampons.
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How to Choose Daypacks
Choosing a daypack can be daunting. Learn how to find the right one by looking at how you plan to use it, plus capacity, features and fit.
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How to Choose Between a PLB and a Satellite Messenger
Learn the difference between a personal locator beacon (PLB) and a satellite messenger, and which emergency signal device might be right for you.
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How to Choose Solar Chargers and Portable Power
Our article helps you pick the solar charger or portable power technology that’s best suited to your adventure, travel and power needs.
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Hiking Boots vs. Trail Runners: The Great Debate
Do you need big beefy boots to go hiking? Or will a pair of trail runners do just fine? Our expert gives you the pros and cons.
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How to Choose Cookware
This backpacking cookware primer offers the pros and cons of different materials and has tips on which and how many pieces to carry.
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How to Choose a Backpacking Stove
There are many ways to cook a meal in the backcountry: Learn the pros and cons of different types of backpacking stoves and fuels.
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How to Choose Bivy Sacks
Learn to choose a bivy sack for ultralight backpacking trips and mountaineering. Includes info about materials, construction and designs.
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How to Choose Sleeping Bags for Backpacking
Learn how to choose the best sleeping bag for backpacking based on bag temperature ratings, insulation type, bag shape and extra features.
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How to Choose Knives and Tools
Knives and multi-tools come in a variety of styles and materials. Read this article to get tips on how to choose one that works for you.
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How to Choose a Backpacking Tent
Learn how to shop for backpacking tents: We'll cover tent capacity, seasonality, weight, livability, setup and materials.
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How to Choose Sleeping Bag Liners
Sleeping bag liners are great for backpackers or travelers who sleep in hostels; this article explains their benefits and how to choose one.
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How to Choose Insoles
Insoles for your boots or shoes can improve fit and alleviate foot problems. This article explains the basics on how to choose a pair.
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How to Choose a Camp Chair
Hanging out in a comfortable camp chair is one of the great pleasures of a life outdoors. Learn how to choose the style of chair that’s right for you.
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Meal Planning for Ultralight Backpacking
Get ideas on how to prepare and pack tasty meals while ultralight backpacking.