Month: October 2023

PHOTO CREDIT: HEATHER ELDRIDGE (CLEVERHIKER.COM) It’s incredibly important to treat your feet right on the trail. But when you’re looking for a new pair of hiking boots, you’ll quickly find there’s a lot to consider – fit, traction, support, price, break-in period, and weight among other factors. The general trend in the boot market is […]

Top Gear Picks of 2023 When we hit the trail, this is the equipment we carry in our packs. Unlike the CleverHiker Gear Guide, where we highlight a wide range of exceptional choices, this page is where we talk about our personal favorites. For more of our favorite gear recommendations, have a look through these popular […]

PHOTO CREDIT: DAVE COLLINS (CLEVERHIKER.COM) Wearing the right footwear is key to success in all outdoor adventures, but it’s especially important for hiking and backpacking. As hikers, our feet are the workhorses that carry the load and take the most beating on the trail. Our experience has taught us that we have to treat our […]

PHOTO CREDIT: DAVE COLLINS (CLEVERHIKER.COM) If you’ve ever spent a night in the backcountry shivering uncontrollably, teeth chattering, just waiting for the sun to come up, then you know exactly how important carrying a high-quality sleeping bag is. Well, fear not! We’re here to help make sure you’re snuggled up cozy in your toasty warm […]

PHOTO CREDIT: HEATHER ELDRIDGE (CLEVERHIKER.COM) Choosing a great pair of hiking shoes is one of the most important gear decisions you’ll make. Getting a pair that has the right balance of comfort, traction, weight, and durability will make a huge difference with every step along the trail. Finding the perfect fit can be tricky though, […]

PHOTO CREDIT: Casey Handley (CLEVERHIKER.COM) A backpack is one of the most important pieces of gear you’ll carry, so it really pays to do your homework and find one you’ll love. Getting the perfect fit, the ideal balance of weight/durability, and an organizational design that works for your hiking style is critical. Our team has tested […]

PHOTO CREDIT: DAVE COLLINS (CLEVERHIKER.COM) Your backpacking tent will be one of the most important gear purchases you make. Finding one that has the best balance of weight, interior space, convenience, and weather protection will make it much easier to stay happy and comfortable on trail. There are tons of backpacking tents to sift through, […]

PHOTO CREDIT: DAVE COLLINS (CLEVERHIKER.COM) Great sleep in the backcountry can be surprisingly tough to come by. You’d think after a long day of hiking, most backpackers would be tired enough to pass out face-first in their rehydrated mashed potatoes. But that’s often not the case. Packing a top-notch sleeping pad will help take your […]

PHOTO CREDIT: HEATHER ELDRIDGE (CLEVERHIKER.COM) Choosing a great pair of hiking shoes is one of the most important gear decisions you’ll make. Getting a pair that has the right balance of comfort, traction, weight, and durability will make a huge difference with every step along the trail. Finding the perfect fit can be tricky though, […]