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Southwest Hikes Best Gear of 2025 graphic featuring star rating, mountain background, and silhouette of hiker with trekking poles.

Best Gear of 2025: Top Picks from Southwest Hikes

Discover the best hiking and backpacking gear of 2025, handpicked by Southwest Hikes. These trail-tested favorites are built to perform in wild places. We update this list as we get to know new gear throughout the year!

Hiker wearing the NEMO Persist 45L Backpack while trekking through snowy mountains with evergreen trees in Colorado.

Gear Review: Persist 45L Backpack By NEMO Equipment

The NEMO Equipment Persist 45L Backpack offers a blend of sustainability and performance, featuring CERO™ fabric and CCubed™ cushioning for comfort and durability on extended hikes.

Close-up of black merino wool leggings showing “STAY GOLDEN” and “BRANWYN” stitched on the waistband.

Gear Review: Essential Compressive Leggings By BRANWYN

BRANWYN's Essential Compressive Leggings combine the natural benefits of Merino wool with a supportive, seamless design. Ideal for various activities, these leggings offer breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and a comfortable fit, all while being eco-friendly.

Hiker wearing a rain jacket walking through a moody, windswept valley surrounded by mountains.

Best Lightweight Rain Jackets for Hiking in 2025: Top Picks to Stay Dry on the Trail

Searching for the best lightweight rain jackets of 2025? These breathable, packable hiking jackets are trail-tested to keep you dry and comfortable—no matter what the forecast throws your way. Compare specs, prices, and shop direct with our top picks.

Three hikers wearing sun hoodies smiling in front of a turquoise alpine lake surrounded by rugged mountains and snow patches.

Best Wool Sunshirts for Hiking in 2025: Top Picks for Sun Protection and Comfort

Skip the full-body sunscreen and stay protected with one of these top wool sunshirts for hiking in 2025. We break down the best merino and alpaca blends for breathability, odor resistance, and all-day comfort on trail.

stock image with white background of a green Trekker Trucker by Turtle Fur

New Trekker Trucker By Turtle Fur: Trail-Ready and Eco-Friendly

Learn all about the new Trekker Trucker by Turtle Fur!

Gear Review: Lunar Duo Backpacking Tent By Six Moon Designs

The 2025 updated version of the Lunar Duo Backpacking Tent by Six Moon Designs is a spacious and easy-to-pitch ultralight tent. Check out this review to see what the hype is, and where this tent falls flat!