Halfpoint via Adobe Stock
Halfpoint via Adobe Stock

37 Practical Gifts for Hikers That Go the Extra Mile

Much like walking an unfamiliar trail or negotiating a series of tight switchbacks, finding great gifts for hikers can feel like treading on treacherous terrain: For a sport so seemingly straightforward, hiking still requires a fair amount of gear for safety, practicality, and comfort—and the proper pieces of hiking gear, at that. The wrong pair of socks or hiking boots can make all the difference between a happy ramble through the woods and a miserable trudge—no matter how epic the summit selfie may look.

Fortunately, between the experts who shared their favorites with SELF and the wide range of high-quality hiking gear available at reputable retailers like REI, Adidas, and Backcountry, you don’t have to be a lifelong outdoor enthusiast to find the perfect gifts for one. From footwear and fanny packs to technical gadgets and supplies, there are plenty of great hiking gifts and stocking stuffers to choose from that will leave your outdoorsy friend smiling and looking stylish at the trailhead.

If you know someone who loves bagging peaks, can’t decide if they want to hit the Appalachian Trail or Pacific Crest Trail first, or just prefers spending time in nature, below are some excellent gifts for hikers that they’ll appreciate on their next outdoor adventure. It might seem early to get started on holiday shopping, but we strongly recommend placing your orders sooner rather than later to avoid shipping delays and make sure you get something for everyone on your list.

Continue reading here to find the full list of practical hiking gifts, written by Johanna Flashman, Gray Chapman, and Sara Coughlin.

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.

Jaeger Shaw
Owner & Managing Editor

Media Mentions

Our top water filter for thru hiking, the Sawyer Squeeze, is 15% off.

Naomi Hudetz
Chief Operating Officer & Online Editor

Media Mentions

People with alpha-gal syndrome show allergic symptoms such as rash, nausea and vomiting after eating such meat.

Stephanie Soucheray
Reporter