Southwest Hikes

Your Southwest Hiker Pal

Your Southwest Hiker Pal

Outdoor adventurer using Nuyarn merino wool hoodie for warmth during a cold sunrise hike

What Is Nuyarn? The Merino Wool Upgrade Every Hiker Should Know About

Nuyarn is changing the way we think about merino wool. With more strength, breathability, and comfort than traditional fabrics, it’s becoming a go-to for hikers and backpackers who want gear that performs on every mile of the trail.

Woman wearing a green wool hoodie and backpack while holding a camera on a frosty desert trail at sunrise.

Best Wool Hoodies for Adventure in 2025: Top Picks for Performance & Comfort

Looking for the best wool hoodies for adventure in 2025? From heavyweight warmth to ultralight performance, we’ve rounded up top picks from Ibex, Minus 33, PAKA, and Arms of Andes. Perfect for hiking, travel, or gifting the adventurer in your life.

Close-up of PAKA Mayu Ultralight jackets and vests in black, maroon, and tan, featuring lightweight design and sustainable PAKAFILL® alpaca insulation.

PAKA Mayu Ultralight Collection Launches October 2nd

PAKA just launched the Mayu Ultralight Jacket and Vest, crafted with PAKAFILL® alpaca insulation for unmatched warmth-to-weight performance. Ultralight, sustainable, and packable, the Mayu is built for travelers, hikers, and anyone chasing gram-saving gear.

Backpacker with red pack hiking through snowy forest trail — how to hike in cold weather 2025 guide.

How to Hike in the Cold Months: 2025 Guide To Adventure

Winter hiking doesn’t have to be intimidating. In this 2025 guide, we cover cold weather hiking gear, layering strategies, and trail-tested tips to help you stay warm and safe whether you’re exploring snowy mountains or chilly desert trails.

Two Ombraz founders assembling and inspecting sunglasses at a work table surrounded by product boxes.

Interview with Ombraz Co-Founder: The Story Behind Armless Sunglasses

Ombraz has redefined what sunglasses can be. In this interview, co-founder Nikolai shares how a broken pair on a camel safari sparked a global brand, why armless sunglasses perform so well for outdoor adventures, and how Ombraz is leading the way in sustainable gear with a carbon-negative mission.

Backpacker wearing KUIU camo rain jacket with hood up, hiking through wet mountain terrain with a bright orange pack cover, showcasing durable rain protection.

Stay Dry, Stay Wild: KUIU’s 4-Day Rainwear Sale – 30% Off Select Gear

KUIU’s 4-Day Rainwear Sale is here! From September 26–29, 2025, save 30% on select rain gear including the Yukon TR, Chugach TR, Kutana Storm Shell, and Northridge. No code required—discounts apply at checkout. Don’t miss this chance to upgrade your storm-ready hunting gear.

Backcountry’s Summit Club Membership: What You Need to Know

Backcountry has launched its new Summit Club Membership, offering outdoor lovers exclusive perks. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits and whether it’s worth joining.