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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.

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October 22, 2023

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Much of his work centers around telling stories of underserved voices. He documents indigenous stories, especially up in the Arctic, and stories from the BIPOC community that revolve around their connection to the outdoors.

Pro Photo Supply Retail

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There are ticks on the GR11! I would highly recommend treating all of your gear and hiking clothes with a permethrin solution. I like Sawyer’s Permethrin Insect Repellent for clothes.

Brett Kretzer

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When we tested this lotion picaridin insect repellent from Sawyer, we were impressed with the simplicity of applying this formula and how effectively it worked while spending time outdoors. bility to detect or identify its target.

Erica Puisis