Need help choosing a hiking pack for a day hike or trail ride? Looking for an addition to your hiking wardrobe? As a lifelong Midwesterner, I’ve experienced the outdoors in all four seasons (sometimes all in one day!) and the various conditions that come with it! Over the years I’ve learned what works in all conditions – gear that is comfortable, breathable, well made, durable, and functional.
Gear Recommendations
Here you’ll find a handful of my personal recommendations for outdoor gear, including my favorite packs, hiking layers, insulation, wool socks, and outdoor accessories.
Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase based on my recommendation, I make a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products that I believe in or personally use.
Hiking Boots
Finding comfortable, durable, and well-made footwear for outdoor activities can be challenging, and varies widely from person to person. While it’s important to find what works best for you, I’m glad to share my personal recommendations. By far, my most well-worn hiking shoes and boots are Merrell or La Sportiva.
Merrell Women’s Antora 3 Mid-Waterproof Hiking Boot is a lightweight, grippy, waterproof hiking boot that is comfortable for long hikes.
A hiking boot I have worn religiously (and LOVED!) for nearly 5 years is La Sportiva’s Ultra Raptor II Mid-Leather GTX Hiking Boot. I can’t say enough positive about this hiking boot. A solid boot with ample ankle and arch support, roomy toe-box, lace-closure locks, lightweight, with grippy soles for any type of weather. I have hiked hundreds of miles in my Ultra Raptors and they have yet to show signs of significant wear.
Outdoor Footwear | Trail Runners
For a durable trail runner, I have similarly gravitated towards La Sportiva shoes for years for their solid, stable fit. La Sportiva Women’s Wildcat 2.0 GTX Trail Running Shoe is waterproof and breathable, with great traction. The fit of the Wildcat is similar to that of the Ultra Raptor, which works well for trail runs or varied terrain.
For a more casual trail runner/sneaker option, consider Merrell’s Antora 3 Trail Running Shoe . After 3-4 years of regular wear, these shoes have held up wonderfully.
Outdoor Footwear | Durable Sandals
If you’re an avid beachcomber like me, Keen’s Newport H2 Sandal is the perfect option for walking on sand, rocks, or wet surfaces. The hybrid shoe-and-sandal design is grippy and quick to dry – ideal for the trail or the beach.
Outdoor Accessories| Wool Blend Socks
For trail runs, I always choose a wool blend sock for breathability. Smartwool’s Run Targeted Cushion Low Ankle Sock is a merino wool socks that fits with trail running shoes, with a firm fit to prevent slipping.
For a higher sock for running or hiking, consider Smartwool’s Run Cold Weather Crew Sock. A nearly seamless design, making it easier to avoid irritation and blisters.
For socks made from recycled fabrics, consider Second Cut Recycled Collection.
- For a light-cushioned hiker, consider Hike Classic Edition Second Cut Crew Socks
- For a light-cushioned ankle sock, consider Hike Classic Edition Second Cut Ankle Socks
Smartwool has a commitment to sustainable production, and a great program to recycle your old socks. Order a Free Sock Recycling Kit, print a label, and send your worm out socks to Smartwool. It’s a great way to reduce landfill waste.
Women’s Vests and Insulated Layers
- Marmot’s Women’s Echo Featherless Vest is lightweight yet warm without the bulk. Water resistant and durable, with zippered pockets and a drawstring cord to block out the cold. Light enough to wear on its own or layer beneath a shell – a personal favorite of mine!
- Smartwool’s Smartloft Vest has merino wool lining, wind and water resistant – this vest is warm yet breathable. I have worn this vest to hike, bike, run, ski and snowshoe. Amazingly warm and layers easily with a shell or as a baselayer.
- Marmot’s Tempo Softshell Jacket is a lightweight, breathable layer without the bulk. Water repellent with zippered chest and hand pockets and a bit of stretch, this jacket packs down small to store in your pack.
Outdoor Gear | Osprey Packs
For a comfortable, durable pack, Osprey packs are my go to. In the past ten years, I have purchased five Osprey packs – both for work and recreation, each of which has exceeded my expectations. Osprey’s focus on sustainable design includes an investment in recycled fabrics, water repellent treatment made without PFAs, and reduced environmental impact.
Multi-Sport Packs
- My go to pack for day hikes and long rides is Osprey’s Talon 11, with an adjustable hip-belt, two water bottle compartments and mesh front pocket (pictured after a muddy bike ride below). This multisport pack has a comfortable fit with plenty of room for an extra layer and snacks for the trail. My favorite features of the Talon and other Osprey packs is the curved Airscape backpanel designed for comfort and ventilation, and built-in safety whistle on the chest strap.
The Talon is also available in a slightly larger 22L pack. The Talon 22 was rated Best Overall by Gear Junkie in 2026.
Biking Specific Packs
- I recommend the Raptor 10 with 2.5L water reservoir, hip-belt pockets and shoulder harness. Explore Osprey’s Raptor/Raven Collection
Lumbar Packs
- The Savu 2 lumbar pack is a perfect minimalist biking pack that includes stretch mesh pockets for single or double bottle carry.
- A slightly larger option is the Seral 4 with a 1.5L water reservoir. This pack has room for an e-bike battery and charger as well as tool organization in the main compartment.
Everyday Gear | Lifestyle Packs
- Off the trails, I carry the Arcane Tote Pack for my laptop and other accessories. I love this tote! It is minimalist in its styling, featuring tuckaway straps and a shoulder strap that converts to a backpack. It also has a 16″ padded laptop sleeve, internal zip pocket, key clip, and large zippered front panel pocket. I purchased the tote in black as it does not show wear and tear, but it is also available in sandy gray, and orange. Currently 50% off!Find your best fit with Osprey’s Packfinder. Additionally, check out Osprey Best Sellers.
Recent Articles – Join in my Adventures!
Recommended Outdoor Adventures
One of my favorite places to hike, bike, and otherwise enjoy the outdoors is Marquette, Michigan, in the heart of the Upper Peninsula. For more information on outdoor recreation, trail systems, scenic views, great restaurants, culture, and unique lodging options in Marquette, check out my 2026 Adventure Guide: Recreation, Culture, and Food in Marquette, Michigan.
Get out there and and enjoy all that the beautiful Great Lakes region has to offer!
Happy Adventuring!
-Erin