Southwest Hikes

Gear

LEKI Skytera FX Carbon SL trekking poles stored on the side of a yellow backpack during an alpine hike in Colorado.

Gear Review: Skytera FX Carbon SL Trekking Poles by LEKI

Looking for ultralight trekking poles that pack down small and perform big? The LEKI Skytera FX Carbon SL poles are trail-tested in alpine terrain and offer unbeatable comfort, weight, and durability for backpackers and fast hikers alike.

Gossamer Gear Cima 15 backpack on the ground, highlighting its compact design and front mesh pocket.

Gear Review: Cima 15 Daypack by Gossamer Gear

The Cima 15 Daypack by Gossamer Gear is a lightweight, trail-tested backpack ideal for minimalist hikes, summit days, and ultralight everyday carry.

Close-up of the Tern Hoodie by Outdoor Vitals showing the interior label and wool-polyester fabric blend.

Gear Review: Tern Ultralight Wool Hoodie By Outdoor Vitals

Looking for the ultimate lightweight merino hoodie? The Tern Ultralight Wool Hoodie by Outdoor Vitals blends breathability, sun protection, and odor control into a 5.9 oz layer you’ll wear all season.

Garmin inReach Messenger Plus held in front of a rugged desert ridgeline under a clear blue sky, ready for off-grid adventure.

Gear Review: inReach Messenger Plus By Garmin

The Garmin inReach® Messenger Plus enhances backcountry communication with photo and voice messaging capabilities, reliable SOS features, and extended battery life, making it an essential tool for remote explorers.

Person wearing the Paka Pocket Tee outdoors in the desert, standing in front of mountains and blue sky, showcasing the shirt’s fit and comfort.

Gear Review: Pocket Tee By PAKA

Review: The Paka Pocket Tee blends Royal Alpaca and organic cotton for an ultralight, odor-resistant tee perfect for hot hikes, travel, and everyday wear. Naturally breathable, quick-drying, and sustainably made.

Macro image of the Springbok Hoodie showing Ibex-branded button, tag, and fabric texture up close.

Gear Review: Springbok Sun Hoodie By Ibex

The Ibex Springbok Sun Hoodie blends merino wool and TENCEL™ for a lightweight, breathable sun shirt designed for hiking, backpacking, running, and multi-sport adventure.

LEKI Cressida FX Carbon AS trekking poles folded next to an orange and black backpack on a rocky mountain slope.

Gear Review: Cressida FX Carbon AS Trekking Poles By LEKI

Looking for lightweight, anti-shock trekking poles designed for smaller hands? Check out our review of the LEKI Cressida FX Carbon AS poles—perfect for women hikers and backpackers who want top-tier support and packability.