Hiking Tips and How-To Guides
Plain-English answers to the questions every hiker asks before hitting the trail. Each guide ends with our recommended picks, so you can go from question to the right gear in a few minutes.
- Hiking Boots vs Hiking Shoes: Which Should You Buy?Hiking boots vs hiking shoes compared: weight, support, waterproofing, break-in, and terrain. Find out which footwear fits your hikes, plus how to get the right fit.3 min read →
- Day Hike Checklist: What to Bring on a Day HikeA simple day hike packing list built on the Ten Essentials: water, food, layers, navigation, light, first aid, and safety gear — plus how much water to bring.3 min read →
- Do You Need Trekking Poles? Benefits, Sizing, and How to Use ThemAre trekking poles worth it? When poles help (steep descents, heavy packs, stream crossings), when to skip them, how to size them, and how to use them correctly.3 min read →
- How to Choose a Hiking Backpack Size (Liters and Fit)What size hiking backpack do you need? A liters chart for day hikes, overnights, and multi-day trips, plus how to measure your torso and fit a pack properly.3 min read →