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Step 1
Make a list of the equipment you will need. This depends mainly on the type of hiking you plan on doing. If most of your trips are half-day walks, without overnight stays, your needs will be much different than if you are planning on sleeping on the road and embarking on a multiday hiking adventure. When making a list, consider every aspect of the trip, including walking, carrying things, cooking and sleeping, no matter how long the list turns out to be. You can always cross off unnecessary items later on.
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Step 2
Search online. REI is one of the oldest companies that makes quality outdoor gear, so that’s a good place to start (see Resources below). Even if you decide not to shop there, the website will still give you a good idea of what is available.
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Step 3
Use the outdoor gear guide provided at Trailspace (see Resources below). The website serves as a review channel for hiking equipment, including clothing, footwear, trekking poles, navigation tools and cookware. Trailspace offers user reviews, price comparisons and tutorials on choosing gear, making the most of your hiking experience, and staying away from faulty products. The service is free and the website is neutral, so you can be sure you are getting honest feedback on the products mentioned.
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Step 4
Remember miscellaneous items such as emergency and first aid kits, camping books and rain gear. Most people shopping for hiking gear concentrate almost exclusively on footwear and backpacks and forget other things that are almost as important for a wholesome experience.
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Step 5
Visit a local store to choose hiking boots. Not only are there subtle differences between types of hiking boots depending on whether you are a day, off-trail hiker or multiday hiker, but many manufacturers do not adhere to standard sizes when it comes to hiking boots. Fit and comfort differ among brands as well, so it’s important that you try them on before you buy them, especially if this is your first pair.
