Clothing & feet
Clothing and footwear for long trails
Feet and rain decide how a long hike goes. Spend your attention there before anything else.
Trail runners
Many long-distance hikers now walk in trail running shoes instead of boots: lighter, quicker to dry, and replaced every few hundred miles.
Socks
Carry two or three pairs and rotate them. Wet socks cause most blisters.
Rain
No rain jacket keeps you dry on a long climb; the goal is to stay warm. Cheap, light rain gear is a reasonable start.
Picks on Amazon
- Altra Lone Peak 9+ Trail Running ShoesZero-drop trail runner with a wide toe box and a Vibram Megagrip outsole.
- Darn Tough Hiker Boot Sock, Full CushionMerino hiking socks with a lifetime guarantee from the maker.
- Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 Rain SuitVery cheap and light jacket and pants; breathable, but tears on brambles, so treat it as a consumable.
- Cascade Mountain Tech 3K Carbon Fiber Trekking PolesPair of carbon poles with quick locks and cork grips, 26–54 inches.
Check the current price, version and seller on Amazon before you buy.