Southwest Hikes

Gear

Woman wearing the Fjallraven Keb Trousers in a grassy field with fog in the background, showcasing the improved fit for Summer 2025.

Fjallraven Summer 2025 Gear Lineup: Trail-Ready Essentials for Every Adventure

From updated Keb Trousers to breezy Abisko tops, Fjallraven’s Summer 2025 lineup is here. Discover the best hiking gear for hot days, including trail-ready shorts and compact packs for all your adventures.

Close-up of a Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear fanny pack worn crossbody over a bright orange and yellow puffy jacket.

Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear: Ultralight Backpacking Gear with a Purpose

Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear is a Michigan-based brand creating ultralight, durable backpacking gear for serious hikers. From customizable backpacks to fanny packs and shoulder pouches, their handcrafted gear is built to withstand the backcountry.

Smiling hiker wearing the black Ridge Merino Solstice Hoodie on a sunny alpine trail with snowy peaks in the background.

Gear Review: Solstice Lightweight Wool Hoodie by Ridge Merino

The Ridge Merino Solstice Lightweight Wool Hoodie is a breathable, odor-resistant, and ultralight sun hoodie made with RWS-certified merino wool.

Rear view of a hiker wearing Fjällräven Keb Trousers Curved and a backpack while walking through a red rock canyon in the Southwest.

Gear Review: Keb Trousers Curved By Fjallraven

The Keb Trousers Curved by Fjällräven are built for women with hips and thighs, offering a perfect fit with pro-level durability, vents, and smart trail features. Check out our full review of these seriously tough—but flattering—hiking pants.

Back view of a hiker wearing the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider 40 pack on a dry trail in desert mountains, walking toward distant peaks.

Gear Review: Windrider 40 Backpack By Hyperlite Mountain Gear

Weighing just 30 oz and built from Dyneema, the Hyperlite Windrider 40 is a minimalist backpack for ultralight hikers. Here’s why it’s a top pick for thru-hikes, long trails, and backcountry adventure.

Person in an olive green Ibex Indie Hoody crouched on snow near a glacier with fall-colored hills in the background.

Gear Review: Indie Hoodie By Ibex

The Ibex Indie Hoodie is a lightweight merino wool baselayer with natural odor resistance, breathability, and a trail-ready fit. This is a go-to layer for hiking, backpacking, and multi-season use. Check out our review to learn more and see how it handles big adventure!

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!