Best hiking gear of 2024

Best Hiking Gear of 2024: Must-Have Gear for Your Next Adventure

Hiking in 2025 is all about comfort, durability, and, let’s be honest, looking good in photos (because who doesn’t want that Instagram-worthy shot at the summit?). But the gear you choose is what will truly make or break your adventure. Whether you’re trekking through the scenic trails of Glacier National Park or taking a quick weekend hike to Swan Lake, the right equipment can turn a good hike into a great one—and possibly save you from an embarrassing tumble in front of fellow hikers. Here’s a list of the best hiking gear for 2024, complete with stories, trail recommendations, and some humor to keep things light.

Stanton Mountain is a 7,750 feet (2,360 m) mountain summit located in the Livingston Range, of Glacier National Park in the U.S. state of Montana.

1. Best Hiking Boots: Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX

There’s nothing like that moment when you’re a few miles into your hike and your feet start feeling like they’re on fire. It happens to the best of us. That’s why Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX boots are a game-changer. I once wore a different brand on a 12-mile trek around Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park, and by mile 5, my feet were begging for mercy. Lesson learned. The Salomon boots, however, offer superior ankle support, are waterproof, and—most importantly—are comfy.

• Why We Love It: Comfortable right out of the box, waterproof, and durable for tough trails.
• Perfect for: Those who want to take on both easy walks and tough mountain trails without foot pain.
• Trail Recommendation: Highline Trail (Glacier National Park) – A stunning 11-mile hike that’s best enjoyed with proper footwear (you’ll thank me later).

2. Best Hiking Backpack: Osprey Atmos AG 65

The Osprey Atmos AG 65 is like the personal assistant of hiking backpacks. I once hiked up Mount Aeneas with a less-than-ideal pack and I could’ve sworn it was made of bricks. The Osprey? It’s so comfortable you almost forget you’re wearing it (almost). The Anti-Gravity suspension system gives you breathable support, while the adjustable harness lets you carry everything you need, from extra layers to snacks you’ll “accidentally” eat before you get to the summit.

• Why We Love It: Lightweight, adjustable, and feels like it was made specifically for your body.
• Perfect for: Those multi-day hikes where your pack feels like a part of you.
• Trail Recommendation: Swan Mountain Trail – 12 miles of stunning views, and you’ll be glad you have this pack for the long haul.

3. Best Hiking Jacket: Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket

Now, if you’re anything like me, you’ve been caught in a rainstorm on a hike, and that cheap, thin jacket you bought on sale at the big box store does exactly nothing for you. Enter the Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket. It’s waterproof, breathable, and, honestly, looks way cooler than anything I ever imagined wearing on a hike. One of my best hiking moments was in Flathead National Forest when a sudden downpour hit, and I stayed dry and warm, while everyone else ran for cover. It’s like a portable tent for your body.

• Why We Love It: Keeps you dry, looks sleek, and is durable enough to handle the elements.
• Perfect for: Those who want to stay comfortable, even in the worst weather.
• Trail Recommendation: The Apgar Lookout Trail – A 7-mile hike with stunning views, and the Beta AR will keep you covered in case of those unexpected showers.

4. Best Trekking Poles: Ultra Light 3K Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles

You’ll never realize how much you appreciate trekking poles until you’re halfway up a steep trail, wishing for some extra stability. The Montem Ultra Light 38 Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles are ultralight, fully adjustable, and feature cork handles that keep your hands dry (no more “why are my hands so sticky?” moments). Whether you’re navigating rocky terrain or descending a slippery slope, these poles are a game-changer for maintaining balance and reducing strain on your knees.

Why We Love It: Super lightweight, durable, and perfect for a variety of terrains.
Perfect for: Long hikes, steep climbs, and uneven trails.
Trail Recommendation: Highline Trail (Glacier National Park) – A scenic, 12-mile hike with plenty of narrow ledges and elevation changes where trekking poles are a must-have.

5. Best Hiking Water Bottle: Hydro Flask Standard Mouth

Hiking makes you thirsty. And if you don’t have a reliable water bottle, you’ll find yourself rationing water like you’re stranded in the desert. The Hydro Flask Standard Mouth keeps your water cold for hours, even when you’re hiking in the heat of summer. I once took it on a hike around Whitefish Lake, and not only did my water stay cold, but I didn’t have to worry about it spilling in my pack—bonus points for that.

• Why We Love It: Keeps water cold for hours, leak-proof, and durable.
• Perfect for: Those long hikes where hydration is key to keeping your energy up.
• Trail Recommendation: Mount Hefty (near Kalispell) – A scenic 5-mile loop with plenty of uphill that makes hydration essential.

6. Best Hiking Hat: Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat

It’s not just a hat—it’s an essential tool to prevent your face from looking like a tomato after a long day of hiking. Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat provides excellent UV protection, and the wide brim keeps the sun out of your eyes and off your face. I wore mine on a sunny trek around Lake Inez, and while I might not have looked like a model, my face was grateful later that night.

• Why We Love It: Lightweight, breathable, and keeps the sun at bay.
• Perfect for: Keeping your face and neck shaded while you hike under the hot sun.
• Trail Recommendation: The Glacier View Trail – A short, sunny hike where you’ll definitely need some protection from the sun.

7. Best Hiking Snacks: CLIF Bars (The Classic)

Okay, let’s be real—no one wants to be that person who’s eating soggy sandwiches and going hungry halfway through the hike. A CLIF Bar is the ultimate hiking snack. They’re portable, packed with energy, and taste like a treat when you’re sitting at a scenic lookout. I’ve had them on countless hikes, including one around St. Mary Lake, where they kept me fueled all the way up the mountain.

• Why We Love It: Packed with carbs and protein to keep you going, plus they actually taste good.
• Perfect for: Those moments when you need an energy boost.
• Trail Recommendation: The Iceberg Lake Trail – A challenging 9-mile hike where having a snack break is practically mandatory.

No matter where you’re hiking in 2025, whether it’s a short jaunt around Swan Lake or a full-day trek in Glacier National Park, the right gear will make all the difference. So gear up, hit the trail, and don’t forget to take a selfie with that mountain view!