The Basics – Page 2 – Outdoor Beginner

What to wear the first time you go hiking

woman smiles in front of a panoramic view of the rocky mountains at st marys glacier near idaho springs colorado

Editor’s Note: Most of you get here by Googling some form of “Can I wear sweatpants to go hiking?” The answer is absolutely yes. Despite what Pinterest will tell you, if you want to try out hiking, you don’t need much. If you’re on a well-maintained trail and go on a day with mild temperatures,Continue reading “What to wear the first time you go hiking”

The best socks for hiking and running

For a long time, I lived life completely unaware of the glorious world of sock options. I thought that white cotton ankle socks were as good as it got. But during my first-ever trip to REI, I was informed in no uncertain terms that cotton socks were not going to cut it. Cotton doesn’t wickContinue reading “The best socks for hiking and running”

Gear Guide: How to pick out your first pair of hiking boots

I define hiking as walking outside on an unpaved surface. Which could be why I have an unpopular opinion about hiking footwear. My hot take on hiking boots: 90% of people getting outside probably don’t need hiking boots in the first place. They’re expensive. And most hikes the average Outdoor Beginner goes on don’t requireContinue reading “Gear Guide: How to pick out your first pair of hiking boots”