Check out our top picks for gear for the trail—whether you are heading out for a few hours or a few nights—this fall.
Cover Photo: Lifestraw
Mountain Equipment
Aerotherm
Here’s the ideal shell for cool fall days when you are moving fast in the mountains. The quick drying Aerotherm breathes surprisingly well, while keeping you warm, and shucks off light weather thanks to a PFAS-free DWR. It’s a versatile shell for backpacking, since it makes a great midlayer and easily stows away in small spaces. $250; us.mountain-equipment.com
Paka
Trail ¾ Crew Socks
If you have read these reviews before, you know we adore Paka’s comfy alpaca wool. Enjoy that comfort as well as the fast-drying and insulative properties of this natural fabric out on the trail in our new favorite hiking socks. $24; pakaapparel.com
Osprey
Exos 58
The perfect size for overnight missions or big thru-hikes on long trails, this pack—made from 100% recycled materials—tips the scales at an impressive 2.84 pounds without skimping on fit and durability. There’s plenty of ventilation in the back and the top section can be removed to slim things down even more. $280; osprey.com
Lifestraw
Limited Edition Go Series
Staying hydrated can make or break a hike—but no one wants to carry too much water weight into the backcountry. Problem solved. Fill up this 24-ounce bottle with its Lifestraw filtering system for clean water as you need it along the way. Plus, the limited-edition Outdoorsman collection helps fund global clean water initiatives with every purchase. $60; lifestraw.com
Oboz
Bridger Ridge Mid
Waterproof and surprisingly light for a beefy hiker, this reliable trail kick holds up to serious abuse, making it ideal for backpacking and those who want a bit more support. The outsole grips slick roots to scree and a molded heel and toe cap give extra protection on nasty terrain. $230; obozfootwear.com
Sea to Summit
Frontier Ultralight 1L Collapsible Pot
Compressing flat in your pack and popping up into shape when it’s time to cook, this 7-ounce minimalist pot checks all the right boxes for trail minimalists. The anodized aluminium base makes it easy to boil water in a hurry and the silicone side walls make it easy to clean up. $78; seatosummit.com
Exped
Terra 30F
Available early at REI (and in other stores in early 2026), this 650+ power grey duck down bag rated to 30 degrees packs away easily and lofts up to keep you cozy when you tuck in for the evening. Weighing under 2 pounds, it’s the bag you will want for all but the coldest nights out in the wild. $200; rei.com
Salewa
Pedroc 2 Low Powertex
This speed hiker is our shoe of choice for power days on the trail. It provides all the grip of a sturdy boot but the lightweight feel and agility of a trail runner. Credit that power to a Pomoca outsole that grips rocks but never feels too balky underfoot. A Powertex membrane with PFAS-free water repellent treatment keeps out the wet while still allowing your dogs to breathe. $180; salewa.com
