Hiking Essentials
Want to get hiking in Vermont? Not sure what you need or what to bring? Don’t worry I got you covered. Here are a few of my hiking essentials.
The most important piece of hiking wear is your shoes. Depending on what kind of trail you are hiking, you may need a more sturdy pair. For example the hike I did this weekend was at a 39% grade…very steep! I like knowing my feet have good grip while scaling rocks and trying to find a good foot hold. Then while going down the mountain, grip and ankle support are just as important. The last thing you want is for your ankle to roll or to slip and fall on a wet rock - believe me…not fun! No matter what trail you do, steep or not steep, I found the Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof shoes to be the best.
In Vermont with weekly rainfall some trails stay wet and muddy. You want a shoe (like the Oboz) that will not only keep your feet dry (no one likes hiking with wet feet - not to mention the smell afterwards), but keep grip on wet roots and rocks.
If you prefer trail walking or running, Solomon (Speedcross 5) has great light shoes with incredible grip. I have Solomon’s and love using them for trail walks and runs when I think my Oboz will be too heavy and clunky.
I recommend purchasing your hiking shoes at REI as they have the best return policy around. If you are a member you can take your shoes on the trail for a test run to make sure you have the right size and fit for your foot and return and exchange for the perfect shoe. The worst is spending money on a pair of shoes only to discover mid-hike that they rub your foot the wrong way, or you end up with calf strain. REI’s staff is incredibly helpful and they will help you pick the perfect hiking shoe based on your personal needs and what kind of trails you like to hike.
The next hiking essential is a backpack. It’s always good to be prepared for a hike and carry along some water, an extra shirt or layer, and a snack. No matter what you bring on a hike with you, you’ll need something to carry it all in.
I personally love Osprey backpacks. I bring my Tempest 20L bag with me on almost all of my hikes. It’s the perfect size for an extra layer or two (and when it’s cold, fit my down jacket), water, Boe’s collapsible water dish, a snack, and my camera.
This backpack is one of Osprey’s most versatile backpacks made from recycled nylon. The hipbelt and back panel allow for support and comfort for longer hikes.
I purchased my Osprey right from their site and have had no issues with it for all 5 years of owning it.
Another great option is this lower cost trail backpack from REI:
Body and lining made from recycled material. Padded straps for added comfort. Great bag for all kinds of activities, not just hiking.
Another hiking essential is water. And by essential, I mean essential. Whether you’re hiking in the fall, spring, or summer months, it always tastes so good to have a cool sip of water and Bivo has one of the best bottles around. While Bivo creates water bottles specifically for biking, you can use them while hiking, kayaking, camping, etc. I love Bivo because they have lightweight recyclable (using 69% less plastic than the traditional 21 oz. water bottle) water bottles. They are a carbon neutral company and offset their carbon emissions by contributing to The Gold Standard which helps provide clean water in Cambodia. Bivo is also based out of Richmond, Vermont and who doesn’t want to support a local!?
Made with all recycled material, this lightweight insulated bottle will keep your water cool for 12+ hours.
I have a 32oz Hydro Flask bottle and I use it frequently! Hydro Flask has a lifetime warranty, so if you accidently drop it or fall on it (like I have) you can easily replace.
Made for everyday outdoor activities, this water bottle will keep your water cool for hours.
Those were my top three hiking essentials, and will help you get started on your hiking adventures. I can’t wait to hear from you on what hikes you do and what you bring with you.
Happy hiking!
