Gear Info and Tips

Most recently updated January 16th, 2022

Below are all of our posts with info and tips to help you choose the best gear for hiking and all of your other athletics.  Some of the posts include links to gear you can purchase.

If you’re specifically looking for some new hiking gear, or something to give as a gift, take a look at our Gear Shop.

If you’re looking for gear with the IRW Logo, or something fun to give as a gift – especially our snarky T-Shirt collection –  take a look at our IRW Merch Shop.

Some of my posts contain affiliate links.  If you make a purchase through an affiliate link, I will receive a small payment at no additional cost to you.  As an Amazon Associate, and other marketing affiliations,  I earn from qualifying purchases.  I do not get paid for recommendations, all opinions on this site are my own. See full Disclosure page here.

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Find the best gear for your hiking and other outdoor adventures, or to give as a gift to your favorite hiker! We also have posts to help you make the best gear choices for your specific needs in our Library!

The Best Hiking Boots – Choose Your Perfect Fit

Most recently updated July 7th, 2023

As the weather changes with the seasons, you should also update your hiking boots for better performance and comfort.

But how do you know what features the best hiking boots or hiking shoes for the weather and your hike should have?

Of course you should like how they look, and they should feel good when you try them on – but beyond that, what are the most important things to look for?

Meadow Trail at NCMA Park
Meadow Trail at NCMA Park

Some boot features to consider:

        • Are they waterproof? 
        • Do they have cushioned shock-absorbing heels?
        • Do they have grippy soles?

If your feet are wet or painful, you won’t be able to think about anything else – and might not even be able to complete your hike.

What you put on your feet is without a doubt your most important piece of hiking gear, so you’ve got to get it right!

Hiking boots or trail running shoes (not regular road running shoes) are your best hiking footwear options.

Aside from fit, one of the most important things to consider is what kind of trail you’ll be on, and how long you’ll be on it 🙂

Continue reading The Best Hiking Boots – Choose Your Perfect Fit

Hiking Tips

Most recently updated January 17th, 2022

If you’re a hiking beginner, there are a few things you should know before hitting the trail.

You really don’t want to become famous as an unprepared hiker who needed to be rescued!

Be prepared for weather and trail conditions!
Be prepared for weather and trail conditions!

I’ve put together some quick hiking tips for beginners, and if I’ve written a longer post on the subject, included a link to that as well.

Even if you’ve been around the trail a few times, you still might find a useful tidbit or two.

HIKING 101

The basic physical requirements for a hike are:

  • footwear that’s suited to your trail
  • hiking clothing layers that can be adjusted as needed
  • food and hydration for the trail
  • a way to carry essentials (daypack or backpack)
  • destination, with a plan to get there and back.

Continue reading Hiking Tips

10 Best Gifts For Hikers Under $50 – Last Minute Gift Ideas

Most recently updated December 6th, 2023

Are you looking for gifts for hikers or other outdoors types, but don’t have the cash to spring for pricey gear and gadgets?

And maybe you waited a little too long to brainstorm something creative and epic?

Don’t worry – sometimes the gifts they’ll really appreciate are the simpler, less expensive things.  Practical gifts are easy to find when you’re short on time, too.

I’ve made a short list of  ten practical hiking gifts or  inexpensive cool gadgets for hiking that would be welcome gifts for the outdoorsy people on your list. 

Give one, or select a few to make a hiking gift basket! Continue reading 10 Best Gifts For Hikers Under $50 – Last Minute Gift Ideas