Exploring the great outdoors in 2025 doesn't mean kitting yourself out with the latest and greatest gear but it's good to know what's out there if you want to start a new year with new gear. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking to conquer new trails, having the right equipment can make all the difference. Here’s a curated list of our top 12 must-have items for your next self-guided Waytrail adventure:
Clothing and Footwear
1. Harrier Dartmoor Waterproof Trousers & Exmoor Waterproof Jacket
Designed for long-distance trail hiking in wet conditions, these trousers and jacket are thoughtfully equipped with features to handle the elements without sacrificing comfort. We love the Lomond jacket too.
Why You Need Harrier Trousers and Jacket:
- Waterproof and breathable design and great value for money.
- Durable and lightweight for extended use in the outdoors.
2. AKU Trekker Lite III GTX Boots
These boots provide exceptional support and comfort for diverse terrains. The Gore-Tex lining ensures waterproofing, keeping your feet dry and blister-free. We always recommend to visit a local hiking store for expert fitting advice - every foot is different!
Why You Need the AKU Trekker Lite III GTX Boots:
- Exceptional support and grip, robust and lightweight.
- An excellent choice for hikers seeking a balance between durability, comfort, and performance across various terrains.
3. Merrell SpeedARC Surge BOA Hiking Shoes
If you want something for city streets, rugged trails and fast-paced weekend hikes, try Merrell’s SpeedARC Surge BOA. Launching in January, these shoes combine advanced cushioning with superior grip and feature a dual-layer, nitrogen-injected supercritical foam midsole that absorbs shocks. Who doesn't want nitrogen-injected supercritical foam?
Why You Need Merrell Speedarcs:
- Ideal for both trail hiking and light running, making it perfect for hybrid hikers.
- Advanced foam cushioning reduces foot fatigue.
Backpacks and Shelter
4. Lowe Alpine Yacuri 65 Backpack
A spacious and functional backpack with a cushioned harness, padded hip belt, and adjustable back panel for ultimate comfort during long hikes.
Why You Need the Lowe Alpine Yacuri:
- Perfect for multi-day treks where extra gear and supplies are essential.
- Designed for ergonomic comfort, even when fully loaded.
5. MSR Tindheim 2 Tent
Perfect for overnight trail adventures, this two-person tent combines stability, weather resistance, and easy setup for stress-free camping.
Why You Need an MSR Tindheim 2 Tent:
- Weighs just enough for easy carrying without compromising on durability, making it perfect for backpackers and thru-hikers.
- Features a freestanding design with colour-coded poles and clips, allowing fast setup—even in bad weather or low light.
Sleeping Gear
6. Raidlight Ultralight Down 2-in-1 Sleeping Bag
This versatile sleeping bag is a game-changer for ultralight backpacking, offering practicality, warmth, and adaptability without adding unnecessary weight. It doubles as a jacket, offering excellent warmth-to-weight performance for minimal pack weight. We tested this sleeping bag in extreme conditions and it was the lightest thing in our packs and the warmest thing on our backs!
We loved it!
Why You Need the Raidlight Ultralight Down 2 in 1:
- Saves weight and space by combining two essential items (jacket and sleeping bag) into one.
- Ideal for backpackers who need to keep their gear ultralight and compact.
7. Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Pillow & Ultralight Self-Inflating Sleeping Mat
Together, this self-inflating kit offers luxurious sleep systems that’s lightweight, durable, and easy to pack—perfect for hikers seeking comfort and practicality on the trail.
Why You Need the Sea to Summit Sleeping Mat & Aeros Pillow:
- Good rest is essential for recovery and endurance on multi-day hikes, and this combo offers superior comfort compared to traditional sleeping setups.
- Ideal for ultralight backpacking, saving space and weight without compromising comfort.
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Gadgets and Essentials
8. Petzl Swift RL Headlamp
With 900 lumens and reactive lighting technology, this headlamp adjusts brightness based on ambient light, making night hiking easier. We're using the Petzl Actik Core which is slightly cheaper.
Why You Need this Petzl Headlamp:
- Hands-free illumination and a reliable brand.
- Rechargeable and long-lasting battery.
9. MO/GO Powered Hiking Trousers
Available for pre-order at $4,500, these cutting-edge pants developed by Skip, in collaboration with Arc'teryx, are like having an electric bicycle for legs. They feature electric motors to boost leg strength, perfect for uphill climbs.
Why You Need MO/GO Powered Hiking Trousers :
- If you need help to walk long distances, this might be for you. Enhances strength and reduces fatigue.
- Ideal for challenging terrains - plus MO/GO™ stands for Mountain Goat which we also like!
10. SOTO WindMaster Stove
Enjoying a warm meal or drink at the end of your hike (we love a sugary tea) is the reward. We're quite happy with the ultra lightweight Esbit Titanium stove and fuel tablets, which can be easily found. But if you wanted something that was recently voted the best stove by Life in the Outdoors, then this highly rated, wind resistance and efficient, stove is ideal for preparing meals or drinks during hikes.
Why You Need SOTO Windmaster:
- Its concave burner and low-profile pot support shield the flame from wind.
- Weighing approximately 3 ounces (85 grams) it offers a light and compact cooking solution for backpackers.
- Match it with Firepot Meals (chilli con carne is our favourite)
11. Lifesystems trek First Aid Kit
Be prepared for emergencies with this compact first aid kit equipped with supplies to handle common trail injuries.
Why You Need the Lifesystems Trek Kit:
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- Portable and lightweight specifically designed for the trekking in the outdoors.
- Comprehensive emergency supplies.
Portable Espresso Machine
If there was anything that is essential, it's this. The
WACACO Minipresso is designed for using ground coffee and offers a compact and user-friendly system. Its small size, lightweight build, and manual pump operation make it ideal for hikers who want a high-quality espresso on their hikes.
Why You Need a WACACO Minipresso:
Do we really need to ask?
Equipping yourself with good hiking gear ensures that your 2025 trail adventures are safe, comfortable, and memorable. From waterproof clothing and advanced footwear to lightweight tents and cutting-edge gadgets, this list covers all your hiking essentials.
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Happy trails!
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