stg-sectionhikercom-buttons.kinsta.cloud Backpacking Gear Reviews and FAQs

REI Trailmade Trekking Poles are sturdy three-section aluminum trekking poles with oversized, self-adjustable lever locks and contoured EVA foam hand grips with adjustable wrist straps. They have carbide tips and come with extra-large trail baskets to prevent tip entrapments that can lead to breakage. Economically priced ($79.95), they’re an excellent option for new or occasional hikers who want a quality …

Little Rock Pond is a scenic pond on Vermont’s Long Trail. It has a newer shelter and campsite area staffed by a Green Mountain Club caretaker. Recently, I visited it on a 26-mile backpacking loop, linking several obscure side trails with a portion of the Long Trail in the Big Branch and Peru Peaks Wilderness Areas. Our journey started on …

Currex RunPro Insoles are thin insoles designed for low-volume trail runners and zero-drop hiking shoes. They provide the arch support needed to prevent plantar fasciitis while adding extra shock absorption in the heel and forefoot. Available in three different arch heights (low, medium, and high), the RunPro is also a zero-drop insole that preserves the drop of your existing footwear …

The Mountainsmith Zerk 25 is a backpack with vest-style shoulder straps for day hiking and fastpacking. Numerous open mesh pockets on the shoulder straps and backpack exterior make it easy to store frequently accessed gear and food, so you don’t have to stop and open the pack to access them. While it’s similar to the higher-volume Mountainsmith Zerk 40, several …