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Your Southwest Hiker Pal

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.

Green COROS Nomad GPS watch worn on wrist, showing digital time, weather, and fitness data on screen.

Gear Review: NOMAD Watch by COROS

The COROS Nomad Watch is a rugged GPS smartwatch built for athletes and explorers. With multi-band GPS accuracy, navigation tools, and incredible battery life, it’s a powerful companion for trail running, hiking, and backcountry adventures.

Two Tiibo Vacuum Insulated Bottles, black and stainless steel, surrounded by ice cubes to highlight all-day cold retention.

Gear Review: Vacuum Insulated Cycling Bottle by tiibo

The Tiibo Vacuum Insulated Bottle keeps drinks cold for 24 hours and hot for 12, with durable stainless steel construction, a leak-proof lid, and sweat-free design. A versatile hydration solution for hiking, travel, and daily use.

Hiker standing on a forest overlook at sunrise, wearing the FarPointe Alpha Cruiser hoodie in red with hood up.

Gear Review: Alpha Cruiser by FarPointe Outdoor Gear

The Alpha Cruiser by FarPointe Outdoor Gear is an ultralight midlayer built with Polartec Alpha Direct insulation. Breathable, packable, and handmade by a trusted cottage brand, it’s ideal for backpacking, thru-hiking, and layering in variable mountain conditions.