Sherpa ϳԹ Gear Khumbu Pants ($70)
These five-pocket nylon trousers impressed us on warm treks and shoulder-season day trips with their durability and stretch. The flexible waist felt snug and comfortable under a hipbelt.
Vssl First Aid Kit ($125)
Be safe without sacrificing space. Dressings, meds, tweezers, a whistle, safety pins, and gloves roll up into a narrow aluminum tube. With a compass and light, even the container is useful.
Leki MCT 12 Vario Carbon Trekking Poles ($250)
We barely noticed these collapsible sticks in our pack. They fold down to 16.5 inches, making stashing a breeze, and weigh just seven ounces. Once extended, they’re as sturdy as fixed poles.
Teva Grandview GTX Trail Shoes ($175)
Teva’s latest take on a hiking boot features a spacious, comfortable toe box similar in shape to its iconic sandals. The Grandview isn’t burly enough for long excursions, but its light construction is ideal for short jaunts, with a Gore-Tex liner that holds its own in wet conditions.
Darn Tough Pinnacle Micro Crew Light Cushion Socks ($21)
Through-hikers covet Darn Tough socks for their durability, but it was the Pinnacle’s wicking merino blend that won us over. “I never switched these out when the day was over,” one tester said.
Gregory Citro H20 30 Pack ($150)
Say goodbye to small, ill-cushioned daypacks and opt for the minimalist Citro instead. The comfy mesh back panel and snug hip straps combine the simplicity of a daypack with the primo weight distribution and endless stuffability of larger haulers.
Fjällräven Abisko Midsummer Jacket ($200)
The airy cotton-poly Abisko isn’t waterproof, but that’s the point—it offers light protection from the elements while breathing better than most waterproof shells. Three pockets double as vents, so you won’t clam up when hoofing it.
Patagonia Capilene Cool Trail Shirt ($39)
Versatility is this tee’s calling card. Made from buttery-soft polyester, it felt comfortable on hot, strenuous hikes but cut the chill on cool days. Stink was minimal, thanks to built-in odor control.
Oofos Ooahh Sport Flex Sandals ($80)
After a day on the trail, these slippers feel like clouds. A deep heel cup, beefy arch support, and thick closed-cell foam relieve sore foot and leg muscles. At just eight ounces, they also make great camp shoes.