Southwest Hikes

Gear

Hiker wearing the Hyperlite Windrider 70 Backpack while trekking through alpine forest toward rocky peaks.

Gear Review: Windrider 70 Backpack by Hyperlite Mountain Gear

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider 70 Backpack is a high-capacity ultralight pack featuring Hyperlite’s new material. With 70 liters of storage, waterproof construction, and iconic mesh pockets, it’s built for thru-hikes and big expeditions.

Woman putting on the PAKA Women’s Hoodie at a campsite, with hiking gear and chairs in the background.

Gear Review: Women’s Hoodie by PAKA

The Women’s Hoodie by PAKA combines alpaca performance wool with modern design, making it a versatile, sustainable layer for hiking, travel, and daily life.

Hiker wearing FKT Gear Beaten Path Sunglasses with black frames and polarized lenses under mountain sunlight.

Gear Review: The Beaten Path Sunglasses by FKT Gear

The Beaten Path Sunglasses by FKT Gear blend polarized performance with lightweight comfort, making them perfect for hiking, trail running, and everyday use.

Woman wearing the HIMALI Eclipse Sun Hoodie while hiking a rocky mountain slope, showing the hoodie’s UPF protection and breathability.

Gear Review: Eclipse Sun Hoodie by HIMALI

The Eclipse Sun Hoodie by HIMALI delivers reliable UPF protection, lightweight breathability, and durable performance. Here’s why it’s one of the best sun hoodies for hiking, backpacking, and climbing.

Pair of Gossamer Gear trekking poles leaning against a wooden Weminuche Wilderness sign in Colorado.

Gear Review: LT5 Three Piece Carbon Trekking Poles by Gossamer Gear

The Gossamer Gear LT5 Trekking Poles are some of the lightest on the market at just 4.9 oz per pole. With a collapsible 3-piece design, carbon fiber strength, and trail-tested performance, these poles are a thru-hiker favorite for ultralight adventures.

Woman hiking in the mountains wearing KUIU Tiburon Pants, carrying trekking poles and a camera, with rugged alpine terrain in the background.

Gear Review: Women’s Tiburon Pants by KUIU

The KUIU Tiburon Pants are a top pick for warm-weather backcountry wear: lightweight, breathable, and built for mobility without sacrificing durability. Learn more about them here!

Close-up of La Sportiva Akasha II trail running shoes, lightweight and breathable with rugged traction for desert and mountain trails.

Gear Review: Akasha II Trail Running Shoes by La Sportiva

We put the La Sportiva Akasha II to the test across the Southwest. Here’s why it’s our go-to summer shoe for trail running, hiking, and backpacking.