The New Women's Hiking Gear We're Loving

Published May 19, 2020 12:00AM

Flylow Dolly Shirt ($85)

This UPF 50 long-sleeve shirt is a superb cooling piece. It looks like a flannel, but at 4.5 ounces the poly-spandex Dolly breathes like a dream.

Merrell Bravada Waterproof Trail Shoes ($120)

The low-cut Bravada has street style and hiker chops, with cushy heel foam, a comfy EVA midsole, and grippy rubber tread. The waterproof membrane proved itself on a muddy 15-mile hike.

Salomon Out Day Pack ($140)

The Out Day marries the unrestrictive straps of a running vest with the 24-liter capacity of a daypack. There’s a bladder sleeve and 500-milliliter front-strap soft flask for staying hydrated.

Norrøna Falketind Flex1 Slim Pants ($159)

Made from a durable, stretchy recycled synthetic blend, these wind- and water-resistant pants won’t sag after days of wear. Two front zip pockets keep valuables close.

Smartwool Merino Sport 150 Tank ($60)

This airy twist-back tank is made from a blend of merino and polyester; it’s so comfortable, one tester wore it for a week straight—in the sun, under layers, and to bed—before relinquishing it to the washing machine.

Stio Alpiner Jacket ($289)

The 10.6-ounce hooded Alpiner is our backcountry security blanket. Recycled-polyester Polartec Alpha insulation kept testers warm on a drizzly day. The DWR-coated nylon shell breathes so well, we stayed dry through unseasonal snowfall.

Cotopaxi Mariposa Crop Top ($50)

With two layers of 79 percent recycled polyester, this reversible crop is supportive enough for some women to wear as a bra, yet stylish enough to rock on its own. Bonus: the high neck provides a little extra sun protection.

Roka Cambridge Sunglasses ($190)

Not a fan of Skittle-colored shades? These classic frames have glare-cutting carbon polarized lenses and a fingerprint-resistant coating. No-slip pads hold them in place.

Nocs Provisions Standard Issue 8×25 Binoculars ($115)

Antireflective coating lets in more light and keeps colors accurate. A high-end prism enhances sharpness, and the textured grip and waterproof housing are adventure-ready.

Editor’s Note: (5/22/20) In the print edition of the 2020 Summer Buyer’s Guide, Outside listed the price of the Merrel Bravada as $130 and the price of the Nocs Provisions binoculars as $89. We’ve updated this page to reflect the current price.

The Best Women's Hiking Gear of 2020