Best Hiking Gear 2025

Here’s the hiking gear I actually use. No sponsorships, no free gear, no fluff—just the stuff that works. I’ve tested everything on this list over hundreds of miles of hiking and backpacking, and it’s the gear you’ll find me using out on the trail.

If you find this list helpful, please use the links below to buy your gear. I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site ad-free and independent.

Continue reading to learn more about the best hiking gear, written by the Hiking Guy.

Media Mentions from Hiking Guy

Hiking Guy

Hi, I’m Cris Hazzard, aka Hiking Guy, a professional hiking guide. I created this site to share all the great hikes I do with everyone out there. This site is different in that it gives very detailed directions that even the beginning hiker can follow. I share the hiking tricks and tips that I’ve learned over the years to fast-track you into a hiking pro. And I tell you what hiking gear works and what gear doesn’t so you don’t waste your money. I depend on your support to keep this site ad and promotion free. See ya out on the trails…

Explore More Content

Sawyer Squeeze Filter with Cnoc Bladder

hiking gear

gear list

From the Squad

Campfire conversations with our community, from Squad Members and Ambassadors to Brand Partners and the Sawyer team.

Media Mentions

4 MIN

Media Mentions

It all starts with Sawyer Squeeze + Cnoc VectoX 2L, the best and most reliable filter-bladder combo and the core of my backpacking water storage and filtration system.