One of the greatest things about much of the wilderness in this country? Exploring it is free for anyone with a sense of wanderlust. But getting kitted out for a trip into the wild? That’s a very real, cost-dependent barrier to entry. I’ll admit that my first backpacking trip as a cash-strapped hiker was done in unforgiving denim jeans and a leather jacket. Thankfully, there are a multitude of low-budget options for quality hiking and backpacking apparel—if you know where to look. Below is a smattering of my favorite tried-and-tested budget-conscious clothing.
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Merrell Speed Eco Hiking Shoes for $110
Unfortunately, eco-focused apparel and footwear often comes at a premium. But these lightweight hikers from Merrell are mostly made from recycled material, laces to footbed, and come with a very reasonable $110 price point. They’re great shoes in their own right, too. Sewn with recycled jacquard and mesh, with a grippy, 30% recycled rubber outsole, the pair weighs in at a scant 20.1 ounces. When I wore them hiking in the Rocky Mountains, I particularly loved the toe and heel brakes on the sole pattern, which kept me stable while tramping across tree roots and gravel.
Columbia PFG Tamiami II Long Sleeve Shirt for $25 ($50)
Designed to be a sweat-wicking, sun-shielding long sleeve for anglers who are out on the water all day, this lightweight sun shirt has become my summer hiking staple. That’s because its UPF 40 protection and ventilating, mesh-lined back panel keep me cool and sunburn-free when I’m up in Colorado’s high alpine. Two small, zippered pockets on the women’s version fit keys and lip balm for when I’m going out for a quick dog walk without making the top feel like a full-on safari piece.
Decathlon MT100 Hooded Down Puffer Jacket for $100
We’ve written about Decathlon’s well-loved puffy jacket many times over the years for its very competitive price point. I’ve worn this baby on late-season hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park and on snowy dog walks around my Boulder neighborhood. It’s made with a soft polyamide fabric and Responsible Down Standard-certified 800-fill power insulation. It’s also fitted around the waist and hips, making it easy to layer under a shell.
REI Co-op Trailmade Rain Jacket for $70
With its funky, high-vis colors and prints, REI’s Trailmade Rain Jacket hits an impressive $70 price point while still delivering a two-layer, breathable waterproofing you’d find in a pricier shell. Its cinchable hood helps keep errant droplets out when the wind kicks up, while zippered hand pockets make it easy to stash a few small essentials, like a phone and a paper map. Hikers looking for a slightly more waterproof, breathable shell can fork over $30 extra for the brand’s (still extremely affordable) Rainier jacket.
Decathlon Quechua MH100 Hiking Shorts for $25
Hiking shorts shouldn’t cost a fortune, and this pair from Decathlon hits the sweet spot between comfort and fit at an exceptional $25 price point. Weighing-in at 3.9 ounces for a size medium, these lightweight shorts are designed with slightly stretchy, durable polyester fabric that dries quickly and wicks moisture well. Two basic-but-functional hand pockets and a semi-elastic waist round out this hiking kit staple.
Columbia Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boot for $60 ($100)
Columbia’s popular Newton Ridge Hiking Boot hits all the marks for a sturdy hiking boot. It boasts excellent ankle support and midsole cushioning for moderate backpacking loads. A seam-sealed grain leather and suede upper is waterproof and plenty durable for years of abuse. And a sticky, widely spaced lug pattern does well in everything from slickrock to mud. Pro tip: while these boots are already some of the best-priced you’ll find anywhere, they routinely go on sale for $60.
Teva Original Universal Sandals for $27 ($55)
I’m not usually a hiking sandals person, but Teva’s Original Universal Sandals have a cult-like following for a good reason: they last for what feels like forever. They’re also so comfortable that I’m partial to throwing them on to walk my dog around town whenever it gets above 90 degrees. Are they the most grippy or supportive Tevas on the market? No, but for $55, you’ll get durable, soft recycled polyester webbing and comfy EVA foam footbeds that are great for flat trails, walking around camp, and water-based adventures.
Outdoor Research Vigor Grid Fleece Quarter-Zip Pullover for $49 ($99)
For folks in need of a high-output fleece, the OR Vigor checks all the boxes with its moisture-wicking grid pattern. The Vigor has flat seams and enough stretch to move comfortably while bending over or reaching up, while thump loops make for easy layering on frigid days. A zippered chest pocket is also handy for stashing keys and a wallet on quick runs or trips to the gym. Best of all? It’s protected by Outdoor Research’s “Infinite Guarantee” in the off-chance you manage to bust a seam.