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Most hikers will tell you the same thing: nothing particularly dangerous happened on their last…
Most people assume quick dry fabric is just polyester with a fancy name. After spending…
Welcome to Hiking Starter — Your Guide to the Trail
Welcome to Hiking Starter, your companion for getting outside with confidence. Whether you’re planning your first short hike or gearing up for multi-day adventures, we help you find the right gear, prepare smarter, and explore further.
Our team tests, compares, and writes about the best hiking equipment — from water bottles and boots to backpacks and clothing. We focus on beginner-friendly hiking tips, honest gear reviews, and practical advice you can actually use on the trail.
Learn the Basics
Just starting out? Check out our beginner resources:
Hiking Guide for Beginners: how to plan routes, stay safe, and make hiking enjoyable.
Best Hiking Water Bottles: stay hydrated with reliable gear built for the outdoors.
How to choose hiking shoes: find the right fit for your terrain and budget.
Backpacking essentials what to pack, what to skip, and how to carry it all comfortably.
Top Picks
Navigating the wilderness can be challenging, but the right hiking multi-tool makes the journey smoother.…
Quality lighting enhances visibility and confidence in the wild. The right headlamp can make a…
Power banks ensures your devices stay powered throughout your hike. Solar chargers are ideal for…
Having a reliable hiking first aid kit can make all the difference. From minor cuts…
When you’re out hiking, keeping your map safe and accessible is essential. A quality map…
We drank from them mile after mile, dropped them on rocks, stuffed them in side…
Find the Right Gear
We research and recommend hiking gear that balances performance and value. Our goal is to help you understand why certain products perform unnder certain conditions.
Look for:
Durable, lightweight materials
Comfort and fit over long distances
Waterproofing, insulation, and safety features
Real-world reviews from hikers who’ve tested them
Every guide on Hiking Starter is built to help you make confident choices before your next trip.
Explore With Confidence
Hiking isn’t just about reaching the summit — it’s about the calm moments in between. Whether you’re walking through local forests or exploring mountain trails, the right preparation makes all the difference.
Our mission is to make hiking accessible, sustainable, and rewarding for everyone. Start small, stay curious, and keep learning along the way. We’re here to guide you!
Compact hiking tents are suited for hikers and campers who need to travel light without sacrificing comfort. They are designed to be lightweight, waterproof, and easy…
Hiking blanket can greatly enhance your outdoor experience. These blankets offer warmth, comfort, and portability. The QIO CHUANG Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets come in a convenient…
We spent two months testing seven waterproof hiking tents across varied terrain: from foggy coastal ridges where condensation is constant, to high-elevation sites with afternoon thunderstorms…
Comfort and protection are key for a successful trip. Bivy sacks are essential for hikers seeking lightweight, compact shelter options. They offer reliable protection against the…
Hiking sleeping pads come in various types, each with unique features. Foam camping pads provide basic comfort and durability. They are lightweight, foldable, and waterproof, making…
Camping trips are more enjoyable with a good night’s sleep, and an insulated sleeping mat can make all the difference. Whether you’re camping in a tent,…
3-season tents are ideal for spring, summer, and fall excursions. They balance durability and lightweight design, making them perfect for various outdoor adventures. Whether hiking through…
Going on a hiking adventure requires thoughtful preparation, and a sleeping bag is a vital gear piece. It provides warmth and comfort after a long day…
Lightweight hiking mats serve as crucial companions for camping, backpacking, or any outdoor adventure. Their design focuses on providing comfort without adding unnecessary weight. Foam camping…
In this blog post, we explore some of the best hiking pillows available. These pillows vary from inflatable options to memory foam selections, each designed to…
We spent six weeks testing eight hiking tarps across high deserts, humid forests, and exposed alpine zones. The goal was simple: find the best hiking tarp…
Exploring the wilderness is a thrilling adventure, but comfort is key. Hammock tents offer a cozy escape for hikers. Finding the best hammock tents for hiking…