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A clothing system for backpacking needs to be as lightweight as possible while still performing a variety of critical tasks in an ever-changing and varied wilderness environment. A clothing system must be comfortable, will act as our first line of defense to keep us warm, and should protect us from the sun, precipitation, biting insects, and bumps and scrapes on the trail to name a few concerns. While each of these tasks are easily obtainable with dedicated and specialized items of clothing, when it comes to backpacking a clothing system is best composed of more generalized items.
Your hiking clothes should all work together as a system using layers under different circumstances – a system where weight is reduced and efficiency is obtained via a sum of its parts. In this post we’ll look at clothing systems and a list that works well (for both men and women) for most 3-season conditions a hiker and backpacker will face, and for the organizational purposes of this post, we’ll start with headwear and work our way down to the socks.

One way to cool off on a particularly hot day in the mountains
Headwear
Sun Hats
A hat is one area where a one-size-fits-all-situations solution may be hard to come by. For hiking during the day sun protection is key, and nothing will beat a wide-brimmed hat. The wide-brimmed hat offers little compatibility with the hood of your rain jacket during rainy weather however, and a baseball style hat actually works very well with hoods to help keep the hood in place and out of your face.
The solution comes down to personal preference; frequently if a trip is forecasted for fair weather I’ll opt for a wide-brimmed hat, and if the forecast calls for clouds and frequent rain, I’ll go with a hat of the baseball variety – sun protection can still be obtained here by combining the hat with something like a buff, bandanna, or hooded shirt – but this configuration will not make its own shade like a wide-brimmed hat.
Warm Hats
Either way, this during-the-day choice should be paired with a beanie type hat, and I prefer something of the fleece variety here, but many other options are popular ranging from wool to down. Whichever way to go, this piece should be warm and if it blocks the wind, either through the use of dense outer fabrics or through use of a wind block fleece, a warm hat will go a long way towards keeping you warm in camp, while sleeping, and during cold morning starts on the trail. During mosquito season throw in a headnet as well – but find much more on dealing with biting insects here.

This desert trip required some thought in regards to hiking clothes that would offer sun protection without being too hot.
Upper Body
Shirts
I take this beyond a 3-layer layering system, but only slightly. I find that an additional shirt adds versatility, comfort, and total system warmth – I start with a simple short sleeve 100% synthetic shirt and haven’t found anything that fits better, dries faster, or is more comfortable than our own TrailGroove Performance shirt. However, while comfortable a short sleeve shirt offers limited protection against the sun or mosquitoes (requiring extra sunscreen or bug repellent), or crisp and chilly mornings.
Thus – and this is one of the most versatile clothing items out there – I add in a lightweight, long sleeve, zip neck shirt as can be found here at REI, and I’ve had good success with Patagonia’s Lightweight Capilene line as well. The higher neck offers additional warmth, but you can vent as needed on the fly with the zip-neck front while the longer sleeves also offer sun and bug protection, warmth, and can be pushed up for those uphill sections when you start to warm up. With such versatility, if I’m not wearing it – this is an item at the top of my pack that I can reach for quickly.

If preferred, a button-up style collared shirt can also work well here. This layer can – as long as you’re content wearing a long sleeve shirt all the time as your primary layer – replace the short sleeve option if desired. While I prefer synthetics, merino wool is another option for both parts of the system listed above. Wool offers an additional benefit of keeping the hiker stink down on those longer trips, and is generally more expensive. Either way, it’s best to avoid cotton clothing items all around, save for specific hot and dry weather hiking situations where you can get away with mixing some in. Don’t overlook color choices as well which can help you stay cool or warm as needed and more – for much more on that factor take a look at this article.
Warm Jackets
Any upper body clothing system isn’t complete without a jacket, and for 3 season use, combined with the additional layering options that a complete system will offer, we don’t need to go overboard with something too warm – and too heavy. Lightweight down jackets are very popular both on the trail and at any local, trendy coffee shop in cool weather, and are a good choice for the mountain west where predominantly dry, low humidity conditions will be encountered.
Just like down sleeping bags these jackets will offer excellent warmth for their weight. Synthetic-fill or fleece jackets are another option and are especially suited for wetter conditions and more humid and rainy locales; fleece is an especially good option if you wish to utilize this piece while actually hiking, but a fleece will need to be paired with another, wind blocking layer any time wind is a factor. A good weight target for a 3-season jacket is under a pound, and around 10 ounces will put you on the lighter end of the scale while still offering adequate 3-season warmth when layered. A hood here is optional – but I find the weight penalty well worth it for the extra warmth a hood provides.

You likely won’t need or use that puffy jacket during the day while on the trail, but it will be welcomed at the end of the day, for adding warmth in your sleeping bag at night, and while sipping coffee first thing on a frosty morning. Some examples of insulated jackets can be found in the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer and the REI Magma jacket. Slightly heavier warmer options include the Montbell Mirage, more expandable across other seasons or for those that run colder.
Lower Body
Pants and Alternate Options
Preferences for your legs will vary – from shorts, to pants, to convertible pants, to skirts and even kilts. Anything that’s not full coverage is best reserved for fair weather on-trail hiking – talus, brush, briers, etc. can quickly wreak havoc on an unprotected hiker’s legs, and will force you to use copious amounts of insect repellent during bug season. My preference is for long pants that protect against those mosquitoes, can be tucked into your socks for tick prone areas, and offer substantial protection when offtrail or for the occasional slip on the trail.
Currently, I use the Zion pants from Prana – and I prefer the convertible option. I actually rarely hike with them in “shorts mode”, but with convertible pants that option always exists and I mainly use the leg zippers as well placed vents in hot weather. By unzipping the zippers on these convertible pants about halfway, your legs are ventilated with each step forward, while still being protected from the elements.

By unzipping the legs partway, convertible pants can be vented when needed.
Thermal Pants and Undergarments
A thin pair of thermal type synthetic or wool pants will add additional warmth on chilly trips and will be welcome on cold nights and mornings – something like a lightweight Capilene option is perfect here and will really add some warmth when layered under hiking pants. This is an optional item for me though, and will stay behind on mid-summer trips to save pack weight.
Whether lower or upper body, underwear may be getting into a bit of a sensitive issue – with comfort being key, adequate support where needed, and something that quickly dries making up the most important factors. While you don’t need spare shirts and pants and a change of clothes on the trail, an extra pair can without a doubt be nice to bring here for a rotation.
Socks and Gloves
Socks on the Trail
A bit less sensitive but just as personal, socks and gloves (usually wool or synthetic) round out the package and perhaps most of all, socks will be critical to enjoying any hike. A good sock really can make all the difference – as a personal example if I go with a synthetic sock I’ll likely get a blister on every trip; since switching to merino wool socks I haven’t had a blister...in years. Thus, while I’m primarily a synthetic guy for most of my other clothing choices (save the down jacket), I’m in the pro wool camp when it comes to socks; merino wool is less abrasive, dries in a respectable and adequate time, and maintains comfort for your feet across many conditions from hot and dry to wet and cold weather.

While I take few spare hiking clothes in any other category, you will want at least two pairs of your favorite hiking socks here at a minimum, and I usually take 3 so I always have a dry pair to sleep in. When one pair gets soaked, hang them on the outside of your pack so they’ll dry during the day, and rotate as needed. My preference are socks from Darn Tough, and I usually go for their light cushion socks or the cushion micro crew versions. Fit is key and different brands fit different people differently, so try as many as you can until you find the right option for you. Height depends on your preference and mostly your hiking shoes – hiking boots will be best served by a higher sock and trail running shoes by a lower sock, etc. For more, check out our article on how to choose the best hiking shoes or boots.

A pair of lightweight, but warm gloves or mittens will be needed for chilly days.
Gloves for Backpacking
Any light pair of gloves will be suitable for 3 season use and selection here is not as important as something like a good sock that’s subject to constant motion in your shoe and a heavy duty, insulated, waterproof glove is not needed – just a pair of lightweight liner gloves or mittens made from wool, synthetics / fleece are perfect to take the edge off when a cold front rolls through on an early fall day. For more warmth and to shield your digits from wind and precipitation use your liner gloves with a waterproof rain mitt – more on that in the next section.
Rain Gear (Rain Jackets, Rain Pants, & Rain Mitts)
Rain gear completes out the package, and things can get complicated quickly when it comes to waterproofing and breathability ratings; as both of those metrics go up together often so will the price. The 3 important factors here are something that’s waterproof, lightweight, and offers some breathability at whatever price point you choose. Many high-end options exist at the lightest weights like the Vertice rain jacket (men's) and women's from Zpacks and others. At a mid-range and mid-weight price point, the Marmot Precip series is hard to beat. And at somewhat of a bargain, check out the various Frogg Toggs options, although durability may not be a selling point here. In regards to durability, rain pants will face a rougher existence when worn, but rain jackets are something you'll wear hiking and in camp more often.
Staying dry is the most important issue at hand here, and while items like a parka will work, for layering purposes and the most coverage I find that a separate rain jacket and rain pants work best. With many heavy-duty options out there this is an easy category to go too heavy, but an equally good category to save pack weight. Around 20 ounces or so for a rain jacket and pants combination is a respectable target, with around 12 ounces total being in more of an ultralight range. A pair of rain mitts – I use the MLD eVent offering or the REI Minimalist GTX – will keep hands warm during chilly rainy days. You can find the latest version of the REI Minimalist GTX mitts here at REI Co-op.
Rain gear isn't something you'll wear all the time, but when you need it, you need it and you need it quickly. Be sure to keep your rain gear stashed in an outside pocket of your backpack or somewhere immediately accessible (that also won't get other gear wet) where you can reach it quickly.

Don’t forget that rain gear isn’t just for rain: you can don your rain gear to block the wind, protect against mosquitoes, and to add warmth as an outer layer anytime it’s needed in cold weather and even in your sleeping bag at night for more warmth, so be sure to size appropriately so you can layer underneath. Keep your rain gear in an outer pocket of your pack for easy access during the day when a shower rolls through, or when you just want to use your rain jacket for the wind on a lunch break. The rest of my clothes not worn are stored in a waterproof stuff sack like a Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil dry bag or the multi-use Exped Schnozzel. Rain gear can tend to get clammy, but wearing your other moisture wicking clothing underneath (at least a layer) will help in this regard.
My 3 Season Backpacking Clothing List
Sun hat Warm hat / beanie Short Sleeve Shirt Lightweight Long Sleeve Zip Neck Light Down / Synthetic Jacket 2 Pair Underwear Hiking Pants Baselayer Bottoms (optional) Liner Gloves Rain Mitts 2-3 Pair Socks Trail Runners Rain Jacket and Pants Dry Bag (for anything not worn) Final Thoughts
Typical 3 season conditions can involve everything from hiking in the heat of summer to light snow and in cool wet conditions – sometimes on the same trip – and in locales ranging from the desert to alpine tundra to a rain-drenched forest. Much like your other hiking gear once dialed in, an adequate clothing system simply and quietly does its job on the trail across all of these conditions; so that we can relax and enjoy the wilderness ride no matter the sun, the rain, mosquitoes, or even a bit of snow around the shoulder seasons…or wherever the next backpacking trip may take us.
Men or women, clothes are quite personal and within these categories, a lot will come down to individual fit in addition to performance. You can browse just about all types of outdoor clothing for backpacking and hiking, and sort and filter by many of the points we've discussed in this article here at REI.com.

Let’s be honest; not every backpacking trip provides the time for us to prepare a nightly gourmet meal, and not all of us are ready to embrace, or perhaps we have yet to have a discussion with, our inner hidden chef. While I like to create backpacking meals from scratch at times and when I can, if you’re like me, after a long day on the trail I simply often find myself wanting a sufficient amount of calories that taste great, and I want that meal as quickly and as easily as possible with minimal cleanup afterwards.

Freeze dried and dehydrated, ready-made backpacking meals usually fit the above criteria – but if you’ve tried your share of these types of meals, you’ve surely had your share of experiences that don’t exactly hit the spot in the taste department, and not much is worse than having to force down such a meal when it's all you have in the wilderness. As such, here’s a review of the best add water and eat freeze dried / dehydrated backpacking meals that I’ve eaten over the years that do hit the spot, taste great, and are easy to prepare.
The Criteria
Meals to make this list and review are weighted on a few factors that are important to my approach and palate, including ease of preparation, great taste, calories, lack of artificial colors and flavors, and the inclusion of meat, or another protein that’s tough to carry while backpacking like eggs. While I’m by no means a carnivore on the trail, a vegetarian I also am not – and although I’ll eat a meal that is specifically aimed at other dietary considerations, I don’t abide by gluten-free, vegan, paleo, standards etc. and for the most part have a pretty standard and eclectic food bag.
Things like chicken and beef that go well in meals are tough to carry in the backcountry; and I’ve found for dinner applications, meat of the freeze dried variety works best on multi-day backpacking trips for the light weight, taste, quick rehydration, and texture. This would go for something like eggs as well – in my experience taste is definitely not a high point of powdered eggs. On the flipside, I’ve found vegetarian meals are the easiest to replicate through freezer bag cooking or one pot meals in the backcountry. For example, while a simple mac and cheese (our mac and cheese guide) or ramen meal from many popular brands that make freeze dried meals may taste great, it’s pretty easy to make this on your own from the grocery store either in the pot or freezer bag style, and thus meals of this variety are ones I usually just make on my own. With the criteria set, on to the list!
Mountain House Biscuits and Gravy
$11, 560 calories per pouch. Ready to eat in: 9 minutes. 4.4 ounce net weight.
A meal I originally bought for breakfasts, Mountain House Biscuits and Gravy now also works its way into my dinner menus. Buttermilk biscuits were something I used to think were only to be had from a refrigerated can (yes I have taken those backpacking), or from a favorite local diner, but Mountain House has done a great job of bringing these to the freeze dried backpacking meal world. Combined with crumbled sausage and gravy with an ample amount of pepper seasoning, when this one occupies some space in my food bag I’m always looking forward to it during the hiking day.

Like all Mountain House meals, this one is now officially rated to stay fresh for 30 years – no more expired meals hidden in the dark corners of your gear stash, and 30 years is even enough time to fall in love with a meal, get burned out on it, and then repeat the process a couple more times.
Mountain House Breakfast Skillet
$13, 510 calories per pouch. Ready to eat in: 9 minutes. 3.7 ounce net weight.
A breakfast meal that originally debuted from the Mountain House “wraps” line, Mountain House Breakfast Skillet works equally well for breakfast or dinner in my experience. This originally debuted at a solid 800 calories per package, but is down to 560 in the latest packaging. This eclectic mix of hash browns, eggs, sausage, and peppers is definitely reminiscent of getting the works plate off your local diner’s griddle. For even more calories, bring a couple tortillas to go along with this one, and if you’re on the pro ketchup and eggs side of the fence, a packet of ketchup is an excellent addition to take along as well. Hot sauce packets of course, would also work for those looking for a bit more kick.
Backpacker's Pantry Santa Fe Rice and Beans with Chicken
$13, 600 calories per pouch. Ready to eat in: 15 minutes. 5.7 ounce net weight.
The Backpacker's Pantry Santa Fe Rice and Beans with Chicken meal combines chicken and rice, with beans, cheese, green chili and vegetables. This is a great dinner for one or two, and adding an olive oil packet works very well for boosting the calories on this one. Although the rice is usually a little al dente in my experience following the specified directions, only slightly so and that’s fine in my book. For a burrito approach, this goes very well with tortillas, and bring a hot sauce packet or two if you’re so inclined. It’s not quite your favorite Mexican restaurant or a burrito from Chipotle, but for the backcountry it’s getting close enough to the latter. The latest iteration of this meal has less calories than before, but it's still a bit higher than average.
Mountain House Yellow Curry
$13, 510 calories per pouch. Ready to eat in: 9 minutes. 3.9 ounce net weight.
A relatively new offering, Mountain House Yellow Curry features chunks of chicken with rice all in a curry sauce that is sweet, savory, and spicy all at the same time. My favorite part of this meal is that while the rice is there, it's not the main attraction so to speak. Where some takes of backcountry bag meals are nearly all rice with a little of this and that thrown in, this one is the opposite with the chicken and curry sauce as co-stars.

While a bit of a light meal for two I’ve found, a packet of olive oil as well as adding tortillas (although naan would be better) and planning for some dessert to go along with this meal is a great idea. Overall, this is one of the best meals Mountain House makes and if you asked me of this list which meal would be number 1, this meal would be in the discussion. For more, take a look at our full Mountain House Yellow Curry review.
Mountain House Spicy Southwest Style Skillet
$10, 490 calories per pouch. Ready to eat in: 9 minutes. 3.9 ounce net weight.
An offering that came out with a slew of meals that Mountain House released a few years back, Mountain House Spicy Southwest Style Skillet is in my opinion another that’s served up equally well for breakfast or for dinner. With a green chile and hash brown base, and oddly for freeze dried meals actual hearty chunks of beef combined with other southwest themed vegetables and ingredients, this meal is a bit of a diamond in the freeze dried meal rough. Although this recipe did have a recall to be aware of – those with pouch code 3253174 and best by date of Dec. 2046 were affected, this is a new favorite of mine on the trail...with the right pouch code of course. That said, unfortunately Mountain House discontinued this meal...then brought it back...then discontinued again. We'll keep it here for now in case it comes back (fingers crossed). You can find our full review here.
Mountain House Cheesy Beef Enchilada Bowl
$13, 660 calories per pouch. Ready to eat in: 15 minutes. 4.7 ounce net weight.
However, for a newer meal that you should definitely be able to find in stock, check out the Mountain House Cheesy Beef Enchilada Bowl. This meal isn't perfect (read our review), but it's close, and if you're packing this meal on the trail there's no need to wait for Mexican food until after the trip, as it will be right in your food bag. You can add a few things to this one to make it even better if you wanted, but taste-wise the enchilada flavor is spot-on.

One of the newest meals from Mountain House (as of 2026), their cheesy beef enchilada bowl really brings the flavor.
Peak Refuel Biscuits & Sausage Gravy
$15, 1100 calories per pouch. Ready to eat in: 10 minutes. 6.77 ounce net weight.
Peak Refuel doesn't have quite the shelf life as some other meals here, but with 10 years (unopened of course), you have some time. The Peak Refuel Biscuits & Sausage Gravy meal is my favorite meal of theirs and if you ever open this meal up you'll quickly see why.

Take a look at our full review for more, but two whole biscuits are included in the package and this meal has a whopping 1100 calories. Breakfast or dinner...you decide – however you likely won't still be hungry after finishing this meal and the local diner-like flavor can't be beat. Price is on the high side, but this meal packs in the calories, flavor, and biscuits.
Mountain House Chicken and Dumplings with Vegetables
$13, 600 calories per pouch. Ready to eat in: 9 minutes. 4.5 ounce net weight.
If you like chicken pot pie, this is the freeze dried meal for you. Mountain House Chicken and Dumplings with Vegetables features chicken, and a heavy dose of vegetables along with buttermilk biscuits and gravy at least reminding one of grandma’s secret recipe....or perhaps just your favorite microwavable chicken pot pie from your local super market’s freezer section. Either way, this one hits the spot while backpacking and especially if temperatures are a little on the chilly side. This is one meal that is on point right out of the bag – no mods or additions required.
Mountain House Chicken & Mashed Potato Dinner
$13, 450 calories per pouch. Ready to eat in: 7 minutes. 3.7 ounce net weight.
I know I know, we can all head to our local grocery store and grab any one of a number of mashed potato packages that are easy to cook, quick, and taste great after a long day of hiking. As such, the key to the Chicken & Mashed Potato Dinner from Mountain House isn’t about the potatoes, it’s the chicken. And it just so happens that this is such a simple combo, but one that's tough to beat.

This meal used to come with two whole, grilled freeze dried chicken breasts included in the pouch. This was a bit of a novelty in the past, however these days the meal comes with more of a diced chicken. This is fine, as although I think previously Mountain House intended for us to eat the chicken breasts with a knife and fork, I always just mashed up the chicken and potatoes all together anyway. The price to calorie ratio on this is a bit steep, so this is one meal where I always add an olive oil packet to boost the calories, and I keep this on hand for a splurge occasion.
Backpacker’s Pantry Pad See You
$11.50, 720 calories per pouch. Ready to eat in: 15 minutes. 6.6 ounce net weight.
This one was almost left off, as Backpacker's Pantry has apparently discontinued this meal. However, we thought we'd include it for nostalgia and in hopes that it's brought back someday, as it was hands down the best meal we've ever had from Backpacker's Pantry. With rice noodles and chunky broccoli in a tasty sauce with an adequate amount of chicken mixed in, Pad See You from Backpacker’s Pantry was about as close to take out as I've ever had on the trail.

No need to bring along an extra olive oil packet – Backpacker’s Pantry already included one inside the pouch for you to mix in before you added hot water – and unlike a lot of freeze dried meals, this one actually packed some punch in the flavor department without extra doctoring (if stirred well; the spices were always at the bottom). If you like a little extra spice like me though, a little cayenne or a packet of Sriracha went great with this meal. Perhaps someday the meal will be brought back. However in the meantime we've developed a similar and easy DIY recipe that you can try.
Mountain House Chili Mac with Beef
$13, 460 calories per pouch. Ready to eat in: 9 minutes. 3.8 ounce net weight.
A classic Mountain House meal, and just classic meal all around, Chili Mac with Beef from Mountain House takes mac and cheese to an entirely higher level (when you add cheese, as I always do) with beef, beans, and spices. One memorable experience came with this meal on an especially wet, snowy, and chilly hiking day – after setting up camp tired, a bit chilled, and with darkness having fallen this meal definitely raised both spirits and warmth before hitting the sleeping bag. The calories are a bit low on this one; I suggest adding a packet of olive oil and the aforementioned cheese for long hiking days (throw it in before adding hot water).
Mountain House Mexican Style Adobo Rice & Chicken
$13, 570 calories per pouch. Ready to eat in: 9 minutes. 4.6 ounce net weight.
The Mexican Style Adobo Rice & Chicken meal from Mountain House may just be the meal to reach for when you're craving Mexican food on the trail, and this newer meal has always hit the spot for me in the backcountry. While I do wish the chicken in the meal had a bit more presence, it's hard to complain when it comes to taste here. I always like to add some cheese to this one on the trail, and tortillas are almost mandatory. Olive oil and a little spice if you’re so inclined can both work together well for taking the calorie count, and experience here to the next level if desired. For more on this one, check out our review.

Mountain House Mexican Style Adobo Rice & Chicken is a great meal that goes particularly well with tortillas.
Final Thoughts
Note that all the prices above are full price; any time of the year REI offers 10% off 8+ meals here with free shipping available, and cost can also be mitigated through careful shopping, as it’s not too difficult to grab these meals 20% off from time to time and / or with free shipping if you keep an eye out for sales at retailers like REI and here at Amazon. Although all of our palates vary and a lot of these meals seem to come and go on the manufacturer side, the above list is a great start, and are the ones that have stuck around in my food bag.
One tip I can add is to always throw in a new meal or two on long trips; it helps prevent burnout on any individual meal and is a great way to find the next one you’ll go back to time and time again. I like to keep a simple spreadsheet at home for each meal, and update it after a trip any time a new meal is tried. I give each a meal a quick rating (poor, fair, and good) in my system, and also note next to this any thoughts on the taste, what might need to be added next time (example: needs black pepper and a packet of olive oil).
While a pre-packaged meal can be more costly than making your own meals from scratch, if you have a focus on convenience, having some of these meals on hand can make packing your food bag before a trip that much easier, and freeze dried meals bring that same convenience to mealtime on the trail as well. Either way, whether you like to throw a couple in to take care of a meal or two on a long trip, or if you take one for dinner each night, having a few go-to freeze dried backpacking meals on hand for your next trip can go a long way towards helping out with your backcountry meal planning.
For a list of nearly every freeze dried meal made (over 100 different options) that you can sort by brand, category, meal type, etc., check out this page at REI.

Unless I’m mistaken, after trying out a modern backpacking chair for the first time and taking it on that first trip, I’ve taken a chair on every backpacking trip since. That’s a solid 10+ years of backpacking. While the limited use of a chair and the extra, non-necessary weight carried may go against ultralight principles, the comfort in camp is worth it. And with many of my trips featuring a blend of miles plus extra activities like photography or fishing or just watching the scenery, there is some time in camp to be had.

Modern backpacking chair options, such as the REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair shown here, can offer packability and quite a bit of comfort for around a pound.
Best Backpacking Chairs
For me and when it comes to backpacking chairs with legs, it all started with Alite Designs Monarch Chair, now known and offered as the Grand Trunk Alite Monarch Chair. You can read our full review of the Monarch Chair here. This $90, 18 ounce chair packs up small and is unique in that it has only 2 legs. If this has you skeptical at first, I can tell you right away that it’s easier to balance on this chair than one might at first think, and it makes a lounging, legs-extended position quite comfortable. That said, for sitting upright and cooking it can be a little uneasy at times, and yes, I’ve tipped completely over backwards once…or twice.

Balanced on the Alite Monarch Chair
For more stability with 4 legs you have a few options here. One can be found in the Helinox Chair Zero ($140, 17 ounces) – find our full Helinox Chair Zero Review here. This chair has the additional stability (although with any backpacking chair, you have to be careful) and is especially comfortable again in a legs-extended position which is great for the knees at the end of the hiking day. This chair has a more upright seating posture and is a bit higher off the ground than some competitors, all of which makes it easier to get in and out of. Additionally, multiple versions of this chair are available such as a large and a highback.

Helinox Chair Zero
For a bit less weight however, the Flexlite Air Chair from REI Co-op ($100, 16 ounces) is quite the contender. Read our Flexlite Air Chair review for all the details, however to summarize you’ll be going about as light as you get here and this chair has a relaxed and a bit lower seating position, but is most comfortable knees bent or legs crossed – which is perfect for preparing a meal in camp. Legs extended I find the seat fabric cuts into your legs a bit, but I do often find myself taking this chair on trips considering its light weight.

REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair
When I want acceptable weight but it’s a more relaxed trip and comfort is a priority, the Helinox Ground Chair ($140, 23 ounces) is my preferred option (see more here: Helinox Ground Chair Review). This one is getting a bit heavy, but I find this chair to be really quite comfortable in a lounging position and it works fine knees-bent as well.

Helinox Ground Chair
The only con (other than weight) on this chair is that – appropriate to its name – it's just about right on the ground. Getting in and out can be a bit of a chore, but once you’re there this is the most comfortable chair option I’ve used in the backcountry.
Summary: Best Backpacking Chairs
Grand Trunk Alite Designs Monarch Chair
Helinox Chair Zero
REI-Co-op Flexlite Air Chair
Helinox Ground Chair
Other Backpacking Seating Options
You can save a bit of weight by going with a stool option. For my backpacking at this point I’d rather go with the heaviest of all options – a rock close to my campsite rather than a stool, so it’s chair or nothing for me or you could just go with a backpacking sit pad. However, preferences vary.
Additionally if you pack a bear canister, you can just use that, and Crazy Creek has offered chair options (this was actually my first backpacking chair some 30 years ago) that have you sitting in the chair on the ground for many years. If not and a stool works for you, we’ll keep it simple here: the REI Co-op Flexlite Air Stool (about $70, 12 ounces) is an option that will save just a bit of weight over a chair and admittedly, does offer an upgrade over a sitpad or rock.

Backpacking chairs can be convenient on everything from a day hike to extended trips, and can offer a place to sit when there isn't really one available.
Conclusion
While a chair for most of us is not a necessary item for backpacking but is indeed one that is appreciated if you’re spending any amount of downtime in camp, as a luxury it's one where I do look to keep the weight as low as possible. Thankfully, there are a few options out there these days that work for various preferences in regards to seating posture and several different options to suit preferences in regards to comfort. While I still wish every chair I’ve ever carried was just a bit lighter, the weight has always been worth it.
For a full selection of backpacking and camp chairs, take a look at this page at REI-Co-op.

While the popularity of using trail-running shoes or otherwise trail-appropriate low shoes for hiking and backpacking has only risen in recent years and continues on that track – my hiking included – there are times when only a proper boot will do.

Take a look at our footwear guide (by season) for help deciding between a low shoe or a high hiking boot. And while the trail-runners vs. boots debate (as with all trail gear) will surely only continue, if you’ve decided on a boot, in this article we’ll look at some of the best breathable, waterproof, and winter boots for your next hike.
Best Summer Hiking & Backpacking Boots
For summer conditions a mesh, breathable boot will be in order. Mid-height boots are of particular relevance to these hot and dry conditions, while keeping things lighter weight than a high hiking boot, and with breathability increasing foot comfort (and less chance of blisters). Unfortunately, boots meeting these criteria are few and far between.

With a trail-running shoe heritage, the Lone Altra Peak Hiker series (non-waterproof, $160) is a top choice in this category with plenty of room for your toes, and could be an especially suitable choice if you can’t decide between a boot and a trail-runner. This boot is mid-height and lightweight with zero heel-to-toe drop, but with a sufficient stack height for moderate cushioning as the miles go by. This is a proven shoe-based design and if you’re looking for a minimal hiking / backpacking boot (but not too minimal) for summer hikes look no further.

For something a little more traditional take a look at the Merrell Moab 3 Mid hiking boots (non-waterproof version, $150) in the men’s version or the women’s version. This in a more traditional hiking boot fashion has a significant leather overlay – not the best for dry times in my experience, but the added durability that leather offers over mesh cannot be questioned. However, rather than completely encapsulating your foot in thick leather like a traditional boot, this mid-height option has a nice mix of leather and mesh for breathability on those summer hikes. Vibram soles round out the package. However be aware that these boots have a higher 11.5mm drop from heel to toe; these will be more like a traditional boot in that regard. This boot is available in standard or wide sizes.

Although a winter scene is shown here, you can see how leather has a propensity to soak up water. Dry time is long. Leather will require more maintenance. See our gear maintenance & repair guide for details on waterproofing leather boots.
Summary: Best Summer Hiking & Backpacking Boots
Altra Lone Peak Hiker
Merrell Moab 3 Mid (Ventilated)
Best Shoulder Season / Mild Winter Boots
It seems like every manufacturer wants to throw in a Gore-Tex or otherwise waterproof lining to every boot that steps off the assembly line, and while this wouldn’t be my first choice for summer hikes as we’ve previously covered, these boots are perhaps the most versatile and are the bread and butter category of hiking boots. One of my favorite mainstream manufacturers – Vasque – typically had some of the most solid offerings in this category for as long as I can remember, with good fit options. Sadly and as they’ve ceased operations just recently, we need to turn to other options these days.

In this category you’ll find the boots that are perfect for dealing with light moisture or snow and possibly chilly conditions. Additionally, they can be used in summer (albeit with sweaty feet and slower-drying boots), and pushed into winter as well especially with hiking / backpacking gaiters and if you use a vapor barrier liner system and warm socks.
I’ve found just about all boots in this category seem to run a bit narrow and tight in the toebox, other than Altra, thus I have to either size up into a new size for width, or go for a shoe that comes in wide widths or is by default wider than average. Obviously, the wider shoe in the right size is the better choice than sizing up to gain width.

Gore-Tex liner in a waterproof / breathable hiking boot.
One perennial and popular choice can be found in the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEX hiking boots ($190). Salomon in the past ran their metal eyelets all the way down the boot which I never found to be comfortable, but thankfully this has been updated on recent models. The X Ultra series can be found in both men’s and women’s versions and offers an all-around, middle of the road feature set. This boot has an 11mm heel-toe drop.
Merrell offers their very popular Moab series here in the Merrell Moab 3 Mid GORE-TEX ($190). While a leather boot – which I like as a natural material, but do not like due to long dry times and a propensity to soak up water – Merrell has luckily designed this one with plenty of ventilation boosting and weight saving cutouts (it has never made sense to me to make a Gore-Tex boot, and then completely encapsulate it in leather). This boot has an 11.5mm drop which as a zero-drop guy, I feel is high but this would be a choice if you like a traditional hiking boot type of feel, but are looking for something lightweight and more mobile.

If you perhaps already hike in the Altra Olympus trail running shoe in the summer, then a cushioned yet zero-drop boot would be a logical choice for wetter hikes. The Olympus 6 Hike Mid GTX adds the height, although Altra (back to leather) has covered most of the shoe with it. That said, if you are an Altra and especially an Olympus fan, the fit and ride might override this for you. We’ll keep fingers crossed on a GTX Lone Peak Mid, however Altra did just release the Timp 6 Mid GTX Boot. Stay tuned for updates.

Previous stated caveats aside, if you’re looking for a tough, traditional leather, Gore-Tex, higher backpacking type boot that comes in regular (even narrow!) or wide sizes, look no further than the Lowa Renegade EVO GTX series ($280) for a solid, classic example in this category.
And on to high stack height enthusiasts, Hoka has you covered with the HOKA Kaha 3 GTX hiking boots that have around an 8mm drop but all the way up to a 40mm stack height in the heel.
Summary: Best Shoulder Season / Mild Winter Boots
Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEX
Merrell Moab 3 Mid GORE-TEX
Altra Olympus 6 Hike Mid GTX
Lowa Renegade EVO GTX
HOKA Kaha 3 GTX Hiking Boots
Best Deep Winter / Cold Weather Hiking & Backpacking Boots
When it comes to deep winter and extreme cold, you can only push a typical waterproof / breathable boot so far. At some point, insulation will be needed. This will vary person to person, and depends on conditions, but for me I find around 10F or colder to be about the point where I’ll reach for an insulated boot over one that’s not. This adds a bit of weight, but warmth is worth it.
In this category breathability is less critical – the outside of your boot will likely be frozen anyway. For warmer (less cold?) conditions in this category we can look to boots very similar to the section above but with a 200g insulation layer added as can be found in the Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid waterproof boots ($150). which gets you a boot pretty close to the bread and butter category of boots we’ve previously discussed, but with an insulation boost for cold weather.

Thick socks will only go so far; for very cold conditions a properly insulated boot will be needed.
However for more extreme conditions you will ideally want to go with more of a boot that has been designed from the ground up for winter and cold conditions. The Salomon Toundra Pro ($200), with Aerogel insulation and a -4F (stationary) comfort rating offers additional warmth and a higher cut along with an overall design more suited for deep winter conditions from the tread on up. This one can be hard to find as of late. You can try at the aforementioned link and also at REI: men's and women's.
If that’s not enough, a proper bunny boot may be in order. Take a look at Alaska Gear Company’s Bunny Boot VBX ($260-$390) – this one is insulated with waterproofed wool felt insulation and comes in several temperature ratings (rated to as cold as -79F!) depending on your exact needs. If you’ll be hiking through extreme cold and deep snow and also need your feet to be warm while stationary, a boot of this nature will be the best suited option, and frankly, the warmer the better when it gets this cold.
Summary: Best Deep Winter / Cold Weather Hiking & Backpacking Boots
Merrell Thermo Chill 2 Mid Waterproof Boots
Salomon Toundra Pro
Alaska Gear Company Bunny Boot VBX
Conclusion
The benefits that a mid or high boot can offer cannot be replicated by a low hiking shoe. However, choose carefully – extra weight on your feet weighs more than extra weight in your pack. That said, if you’re headed out on an expedition type trip with a heavy pack or hiking in deep snow there are indeed times when a boot can make all the difference.

As with all footwear, hiking or not, fit is the most important consideration here along with the features you need – nobody enjoys having to stop on a lunch break to fix hot spots or worse having to constantly battle blisters on a trip. Likely, the best hiking boot for you will be the one that simply fits the best (note that all boots detailed here are available in both men’s and women’s versions and many in various widths). After that, so long as the boot is sufficiently durable, warm enough and waterproof enough, and not overly expensive for the budget, all you have to worry about is where those boots will take you on your next trip.
For more on features to look for and selection strategy, see our article Choosing the Best Backpacking & Hiking Shoes or Boots. If you've decided to go with a shoe however, see our Best Hiking and Backpacking Shoes by Category article. For a full selection of hiking and backpacking boots, see this page at REI Co-op.

Shoes may be the most important piece of gear for hiking or backpacking. They are with us every step of the way, and we are relying on them to be steady and supportive. If we are thinking about shoes while hiking, it is usually because there is a problem. Maybe they don’t fit properly – too tight or too loose? Are they not grippy enough for rock slabs? Are my feet sore from feeling every rock on the trail?

Instead, we want to count on them to provide the right level of support and comfort while getting us where we want to go. Finding the right shoes for hiking can be a real challenge, but it’s worth it to have shoes that we can rely on for every hike.
Best Long Distance Backpacking and Thru-Hiking Shoes
Many backpackers find that trail running shoes are a good and lightweight choice for hitting the trails day after day. For years, one of the most popular in this category has been the Altra Lone Peak ($145). With its natural foot shape, which gives plenty of room for your toes, as well as a 25mm stack height and zero drop, it is quite a comfortable shoe. It has a rock plate to protect your feet from rough trails, as well as an outsole with lots of grip. The current 9+ version has a Vibram outsole for even more grip.

La Sportiva offers several suitable hiking shoes, including the Bushido III trail running shoe ($160), with a lower stack height for good control and ground feel. Be sure to try these on and make sure the foot shape works for you. Another option from La Sportiva is the Akyra II ($159), a rugged yet breathable shoe with extra grip in muddy and wet conditions.

The Topo Athletic Traverse ($155) is a low drop option (5mm), that has a roomy toebox and 30mm stack height at the heel. There is a rock plate on the forefoot for protection against rugged terrain. One thing to note is that the midfoot can be a bit snug for those like myself with high arches, which makes the eyestay (area around the eyelets & laces) uncomfortable as it is stiffer than some other shoes. As always, you should try them on to see how they might work for you before heading out on a trip.

Another long distance hiking option is the Saucony Peregrine ($150), with a comfortable fit and a rock plate in the forefoot and standard plus wide sizes. The toebox isn’t quite as wide as an Altra shoe, but it is wider than many others on the market. I found it to have a surprisingly cushioned feel with only 28mm stack in the heel and 24mm in the toe.
Summary: Best Long Distance Backpacking and Thru-Hiking Shoes
Altra Lone Peak 9+
La Sportiva Bushido III
La Sportiva Akyra II
Topo Athletic Traverse
Saucony Peregrine 16
Best Waterproof Backpacking and Hiking Shoes
Depending on the time of year, current weather conditions, and specific trails that are to be traversed, sometimes a waterproof hiking shoe is in order. Breathability is a trade-off for the water-proofing, so these shoes are not the best choice for a hot, summer hike on a mostly dry trail. These can be slower to dry after creek crossings and may keep your feet hot. However, in cold and wet conditions, they can preserve heat by keeping snow and rain out, as well as keeping body heat in. They can also be helpful in sandy conditions to keep the sand out.

Water resistance becomes more important in a shoe during the shoulder seasons and when encountering moisture (whether in the form of rain or snow) combined with colder temperatures.
Hoka has a good waterproof option with the Anacapa Low GTX ($180), and some hikers with narrower feet have said these fit them perfectly, while those with wider feet like myself might find them too snug. There is plenty of cushion, while still being a fairly lightweight shoe and has Vibram outsoles and GORE-TEX bootie construction.
The La Sportiva Spire GTX ($219) is another popular choice with a GORE-TEX liner and a breathable upper. These shoes give the support and stability of a hiking boot, along with Vibram outsoles to provide excellent traction. They have an 11mm drop and are a bit heavy compared to other trail shoes (15.5oz per shoe), so these may not work for more ultralight hikers. However, they are very well rated for both breathability and waterproofness.

When hiking on wet or snowy terrain, traction becomes all that much more important. While durability is always appreciated, sticky outsoles are a priority in these conditions (Lone Peak 9+ shown).
Altra has a top choice in this category as well with the Lone Peak 9+ GTX Trail-Running shoes ($180). This shoe has a breathable, waterproof and windproof GORE-TEX Invisible Fit lightweight upper and Vibram Megragrip outsoles. It has the usual perks of an Altra shoe (wider toe box, zero drop, lightweight, etc.), but it is made to keep your feet dry in wet and muddy conditions.
Summary: Best Waterproof Backpacking and Hiking Shoes
Hoka Anacapa Low GTX
La Sportiva Spire GTX
Lone Peak 9+ GTX
Best Maximum Cushion Hiking and Backpacking Shoes
If you’re looking for more of a cushioned ride, shoes with a high stack height will be in order. While opinions are a bit mixed among the staff here at TrailGroove on the benefit of these types of shoes – there will always be the minimal vs. cushioned camps and discussion – if you’ll be hiking on more graded and maintained trails (on difficult terrain, lower stack heights will offer more stability) this category can be worth a look.

Altra provides options in the maximum cushioning category including the Altra Olympus 6 ($185). This shoe’s shape is similar to the Lone Peak, with extra room in the toes, and of course it is zero drop. Unlike the Lone Peak, this shoe has no rock plate and instead provides several more mm of cushion along with a grippy Vibram outsole. These shoes became a favorite of mine while I was healing from an injury and required extra impact absorption, and I continue to wear them from time to time.
In this category, Hoka is well-known for offering a wide array of comfortable shoes with plenty of cushioning that absorbs impact. Their top all-round choice is the Hoka Speedgoat 6 ($155) that has a 40mm stack height as well as Vibram outsoles for extra grip. The upper is made of breathable, lightweight materials.
Topo Athletic offers the Ultraventure ($155), with plenty of cushioning and an Ortholite performance insole. It has a 5mm drop, a roomy toebox, and Vibram outsoles. It manages to stay lightweight (listed at 10.4oz each for Mens size 9), while using a proprietary midsole that claims to be springier than EVA with more rebound.
Summary: Best Maximum Cushion Hiking and Backpacking Shoes
Altra Olympus 6
Hoka Speedgoat 6
Topo Athletic Ultraventure
Best Budget Hiking Footwear Options
While your hiking shoes might not be the best place to save a few dollars, if you’re looking to hit the trail and must do so on a limited budget, take a look at these options for budget-friendly trail shoes.
The ASICS Gel-Excite trail running shoes ($85) have plenty of cushion as well as a rear-foot gel technology that improves impact absorption for longer hikes. They may not be as rugged as other hiking shoes, making them not the best choice for technical terrain, but for daily hikes on easier trails, these shoes could be an affordable choice.

One way to find the right treads for the trail is to watch for closeout deals on popular shoes and previous models, although finding the right size can be a challenge with this strategy.
Another option is the DynaSoft Nitrel line by New Balance, which retails for $80. It is recommended for average foot widths and average arch heights, and has a fairly low heel drop of 6mm. It has an EVA foam insert for extra hiking comfort and is lightweight and versatile. Like the ASICS, the Nitrel shoe does not have the structure for technical trails (e.g. no rock plate), but it could do well for easy trails.

A long-time provider of affordable outdoor gear, Columbia offers several hiking footwear choices including the Crestwood Hiking Shoe. The Crestwood is lightweight and versatile, with the shoe retailing for only $70, and offering a waterproof version and a mid-boot option ($90 and $100, respectively).
Sometimes the trade-off for choosing a lower budget shoe is that you may have less durability. Make sure to also check the REI Co-op Outlet for clearance sales on some of the higher priced shoes, although sizes and styles will be limited.
Summary: Best Budget Hiking Footwear Options
ASICS Gel-Excite 2
New Balance DynaSoft Nitrel v6
Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoes
REI Co-op Outlet Shoes
Women’s Backpacking and Hiking Shoes
All the shoes listed here are available in both men’s and women’s versions. The features and technology used are generally the same for women’s shoes as they are for the men’s; however, sizing and styles/color options will differ.

In general, the men’s version is created to be slightly wider than the women’s for a similar size. For example, Topo Athletic states that the standard men’s width is an E in the toe box and D in the midfoot/heel area, while the standard women’s width is a D in the toe box and a B in the midfoot/heel area. For women that need a wider width, a men’s shoe in the similar equivalent size may do the trick. Also, men that need a narrower fit particularly in the instep or heel, may wish to try a women’s size to see if it fits more perfectly.
Conclusion
Perhaps nothing is more personal in regards to hiking and backpacking gear than your shoes; everyone’s feet and preferences vary. That said, once you determine the category that works best for you (do you want to take the minimal approach, max cushion, or somewhere in between?) appropriate, well-built, and trail-ready choices do quickly become narrowed.
The best hiking shoes will be the ones that you’re frankly not thinking about as the miles go by. In the end, try out as many shoes as you can – and comfort with acceptable durability is king when it comes to the best hiking and backpacking shoes that will work and be best for your upcoming hikes.
For more on what to look for in general and categorized by hiking season, see our article on how to choose backpacking and hiking footwear. For a full selection of hiking and backpacking shoes check out this page at REI Co-op.