Hiking Gear I Love: 5 Things I Won’t Adventure Without

Over my years of adventuring, I’ve found some sweet pieces of personal hiking gear that help me enjoy the experience more and I’m here today to share them with you!

Finding the right tool for the job is such a great feeling. Once I connect with a piece of gear, you bet I’ll always have it on hand, ready to go with me on even the shortest adventure. What I love most about these 5 pieces of hiking gear is that they are mostly crafted from small businesses which I am always passionate about supporting!

The Reliable Visor from KeaPeak

My love for visors began when I had dreadlocks and typical hats did not fit my large cranial circumference! Enter KeaPeak: a visor designed for women who don’t want to sacrifice their top knot — or in my case, the wild dreads. Functional and OH so stylish, KeaPeak visors are made in the USA by an adventure woman herself. The dreads are long gone now, but I still reach for my trusty KeaPeak visor before hitting the trail.

An Essential Fanny Pack from OSO Supply Co.

I know, I know: first a visor and now a fanny pack?! How outdated are my preferences anyway?! I like to see my likes as timeless, classic…you get the picture. If you’re anything like me, you may resist the idea that a fanny pack could be a good idea as a piece of hiking gear. But once I surrendered my pride and handed in my “cool kid” card, the blinders fell off and all I could see was the beauty and light that exudes from the oh so holy hip pack.

Especially on extended hikes, the fanny pack comes in clutch for keeping snacks and a camera handy. Heck, I use it for long walks around theme parks and other outings! I know what you’re thinking, and the answer is “no.” No, I do not care anymore. But it’s really not as bad as you think…especially when my hip packs are crafted perfectly by OSO.

My new hiking gear obsession is OSO Supply Co. Artisan-made with functional style in mind, OSO has ditched the idea of boring gear and offers beautiful pieces for every adventurer. I am now a proud owner of a handlebar bag and TWO hip packs. I’ve purchased “handmade” packs like this before and after over a year of use, I can genuinely report that OSO’s quality is unmatched. Do I have my eye on their towels and hammocks? You betcha.

Protective Gaiters by UltraGam

Another piece of hiking gear that I never thought would be useful were gaiters. I mean, I’ve used tall, rugged ones for bushwhacking and snow protection but those little ones around the ankles? Do they even do anything? The answer that I was humbled to find out is a resounding YES.

I was SO tired of little pebbles and sticks getting into my hiking shoes that I decided to give UltraGam’s gaiters a shot and BOY are these little things a game changer. They do everything promised and more. Plus, I often forget they’re even on due to the cool and soft fabric. The best part? UltraGam products are handmade in the USA, making each one unique. Their fabric choices are super fun too!

Crazy Creek‘s Comfy Seat

My Crazy Creek chair is certainly a “luxury” item that I’m always willing to pack in. On all the other normal days around the yard and trips to the park, it’s not far away. This little chair doesn’t look like much, but it’s extremely comfortable when perched on just about any terrain. With a comfy rocker, it’s even become my portable choice for breastfeeding! Another thing I love about this piece of hiking gear is that is can be used as extra insulation and padding under your torso when backpacking.

Replenish and Energize with LMNT Electrolytes

Electrolyte drinks never really seemed to make a difference in my performance until I tried LMNT. I’m not a fan of salty flavor, so my first sip was nasty. But then I gave it a go on top of a mountain after a significant climb over many miles and felt instantly refreshed. From that day I was hooked. LMNT contains a fantastic balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium giving the sweaty athlete the perfect boost. It contains NO sugar, but stevia is included in the ingredients. I’m usually sensitive to the flavor of stevia, but can’t tell it’s in there at all. Another thing I love about LMNT is the small packaging that’s perfect for hiking.

So why does personal hiking gear matter anyway?

Conquering trails isn’t all the outdoor world has to offer. I truly believe nature is a gift created for us to enjoy and infuse with our own stories. Bringing our own unique style and preferences when adventuring outside helps us to connect and empowers us to be our best self. I know women who love to hike in dresses and always bring their favorite drink to celebrate a summit. It’s truly a beautiful thing when our personal flair meets untamed adventure.

Final Thoughts on My Favorite Hiking Gear

As I wrote this post, I came to the realization that I was initially SO hesitant to try every single one of these pieces of hiking gear. Maybe that’s part of the process of learning, but the fact that they all make my top five is kind of cool. I have friends who have tried these things and don’t love them as much as me, but that’s OK! We all have to figure out what works best for us and the way we flow through adventure.

I’d love to know your thoughts! Comment with your favorite pieces of hiking gear below.

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