Jen’s Favorite Hiking Gear 2020

It’s been a long time since I’ve posted a gear list, so I figured now would be a good time for an update. I’ve done a lot of hiking this fall season after a long break due to my ACL injury and surgery recovery. But now that I’m *almost* back to baseline, I’m working my way back to long-distance hikes with more elevation. Here’s the hiking gear I’m loving right now.

Patagonia Nine Trails 26L Pack

I got the Nine Trails pack at the end of last season and didn’t get to use it until this year. The *only* thing I don’t like about it is that the adjustable straps don’t stay tight. I solved the problem by tying the ends in a knot so they stay put. I love everything else about this pack. It’s lightweight and comfortable and has just enough pockets. I like the elastic outer pocket because it’s perfect for stashing things you want to be easily accessible, like collapsible hiking poles.

Black Diamond Distance Z Collapsible Trekking Poles

I’m pretty sure I’ve written about these poles before. I’ve had them for about 4 years and use them *on every hike*. They are even more important now after having knee surgery. They are lightweight and collapse easily so I can store them in my pack when I’m not using them. I can’t say enough good things about these poles.

Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hooded Jacket

This is by far my favorite jacket for fall hiking. It’s pretty thin, so it’s best for temps in the 40s-50s. I wore it last weekend for a hike in the 40s and it was the perfect outer layer with a thicker insulating mid-layer underneath. The material is durable and stretchy which makes it very comfortable for hiking. There are thumb-holes and the pockets are decent-sized which I like. It’s water-resistant, not waterproof, so I still carry a rain jacket in the pack even when I’m wearing this.

REI XeroDry GTX Rain Jacket

I’ve purchased a few rain jackets, including the Marmot Precip Anorak and a Northface rain jacket. The Anorak is functional but pretty inconvenient as far as jackets go. Enter the REI XeroDry rain jacket, my new favorite. I got this because I was looking for an affordable Gore-tex rain jacket and it fit the bill. The pockets are huge –and backpack compatible so no need to unclip your hip belt when reaching in the pockets. The *only* downside is that it doesn’t have pit zips, which is fine for me since I don’t do strenuous hikes in the pouring rain that frequently.

Outdoor Research Transcendent Down Hoodie 

If you’re looking for a lightweight, packable down jacket–the OR Transcendent jacket is it.  I was very thankful when I found this jacket on sale. I searched far and wide for a down jacket that fit me properly and this one fits great and is extremely warm. I love it when I’m sitting on a chilly, windy summit enjoying my mid-hike lunch and sometimes even wear it for the descent.

Northface High Rise Tights

I never used to hike in tights until recently. I just got tired of wearing unflattering baggy hiking pants. I got these tights with no real plans to hike in them–but once I wore them on a hike I can never go back. The material is durable enough to withstand walking through brush–and the occasional butt-slide–and they even have a side pocket for a phone. I love them.

Darn Tough Hiking Socks

Made in Vermont, these socks are my go-to for hiking (and skiing). They are a merino wool blend and–did I mention, made in Vermont?!

Altra Lone Peak Trail Running Shoes

I’ve been wearing the Lone Peaks for hiking for years. I absolutely love them. The last version I have is the 3.5, but I think now they are up to the 4.5 (pictured). Altra’s signature foot-shaped, wide-toe box trail shoe is my go-to for hiking in the summer and fall. The soles are grippy and they are extremely comfortable.

Julbo Spark Sunglasses

Most of my sunglasses are cheap pairs from Target-but this summer I finally purchased some fancier sunglasses–the Julbo Spark. Not only are they great for casual wear, but they are also actually functional for activites. I always wear them hiking, cycling, and running. AND they actually stay put and don’t slide down my face. They are also very lightweight and extremely comfortable. A+.

Well, there you have it! Hope you enjoyed this list of my favorite hiking gear for 2020.

What are some pieces of hiking gear you can’t live without?