12 things you should never go hiking without

Gear you can trust from your backyard hill to the Appalachian Trail.

Hiking doesn’t have to mean scaling the side of mountains. It doesn’t even mean traveling great distances. Hiking can be as simple as a short jaunt through your local state park on mostly paved and well-trodden paths. And year after year, more people are participating in hikes and exploring the great outdoors. The most recent data from The Outdoor Industry Association, shows that 44.9 million Americans hiked in 2017, compared to 34.38 million in 2013. If you’re thinking of joining those numbers, the proper gear will let you focus on the scenery around you instead of achy feet or irritated skin.

We’re big fans of REI because of its satisfaction-guaranteed policy that allows you to return any gear, excluding outdoor electronics, within a year of purchase either for a replacement or a refund. If you’re a new or casual hiker, there’s a chance you may change your mind about products after your first hike or two—this keeps you from fretting about purchases you’re not totally sure about. Plus, the retailer is offering up to 40 percent off select brands through Labor Day, so you’ll score deals on your new favorite gear.

See the full list by Jessica Kasparian on Reviewed's website here.