The Best Women's Hiking Gear of 2016

Published May 2, 2016 12:00AM

Smith Ramona Polarized Sunglasses

These shades are an elegant update of the classic Wayfarer, with impact-resistant, carbonic, polarized brown lenses that make ocean waves, or even distant grizzlies, pop.

Ex Officio Give-N-Go Sport Mesh Tank

Quick-drying nylon and breathable mesh make the Give-N-Go ideal for hot-weather hikes. Wide straps cushion a backpack, while a stylish T-back shows a little shoulder from behind.

Icebreaker Women’s Ellipse LS Half Zip Hoodie

Made from 75 percent merino and 25 percent recycled polyester, this hoodie keeps you warm in fickle weather. Bonus: It looks great, so you won’t need to change if you hike straight to lunch.

Marmot Roam Jacket

A wide ’70s-era stripe across the chest gives the Roam a retro look, but the highly breathable, waterproof MemBrain fabric is totally 21st century and will keep you dry and happy when it starts to pour.

The North Face Nueva Jogger Pants

These cuffed capris, made from wicking polyester, are as comfortable as yoga pants but hold up much better when scrambling over rocks or through trees. A zippered pocket in back holds essentials like cash and lip balm.

Leki Micro Vario Carbon Lady Poles

With 100 percent carbon shafts, these folding hiking poles come in at a feathery 14.25 ounces. Fully extended, they stretch to nearly 50 inches long but pack down to just 15. Plus, the grip is 15 percent smaller than the men’s version.

Chaco OutCross Evo 4 Shoes

Ventilated construction allows for maximal breathability and quick drainage if you’re in the water, but ample coverage keeps gravel from migrating under your foot. A solid chassis allows you to use them as regular low-cut hikers.

Osprey Mira AG 26 Pack

The mesh-cut harness and antigravity belt conform to your back and hips while evenly distributing weight. Result: This pack feels like it’s floating, even when fully loaded. The clip-in 2.5-liter bladder is easy to fill, and there are extra storage pockets everywhere.

Princeton Tec Sync Headlamp

Compact, water-resistant, and affordable, this headlamp puts out 90 lumens—good enough to illuminate a late-night paddle or start an emergency campfire. Tip: Always bring extra AAA batteries, just in case.

Hydroflask Insulated Growler

If you’re not going far, why not bring beer for you and your friends in this 64-ounce, wide-mouth, stainless steel, BPA-free growler? It’ll keep your favorite microbrew ice cold for 24 hours. (We recommend Bent Paddle Brewing Company’s Lollygagger American Pale Ale.)

Feetures Elite Merino+ Socks

These technical running socks are made from sweat-wicking merino wool and bamboo. A touch of compression and a seamless toe help keep your feet blister-free all day.