Bottom Line

The Ursack Major is one of the lightest and most convenient bear-resistant food storage options available. Unlike bulky canisters, it packs down small and easily fits inside a backpack, making it ideal for ultralight hikers who prioritize minimal pack weight. Its strong fabric and high-tensile strength cord prevent most bears and other critters from escaping with your food, though it doesn’t always keep contents intact. Persistent bears can crush or mash what’s inside or even tear it open on occasion.

Although it’s IGBC-certified for grizzlies, it’s not universally approved in every park or wilderness area.

We’ve used the Ursack in rugged, high-traffic bear zones like Colorado’s Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, where it offered both convenience and peace of mind. For ultralight backpackers and experienced hikers who prioritize simplicity and weight savings, it’s an excellent choice. For more heavy-duty bear canisters, see our guide to the best bear canisters.

How We Tested

We tested the Ursack for numerous nights during several backpacking trips in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, Indian Peaks, and other areas.

The testing included verifying manufacturer specifications, evaluating its actual packing capacity, and comparing many user reports with our own first-hand experiences in the backcountry.

Weight & Packability

The Ursack is a great way to shed weight while still keeping your food safe from bears. The Ursack Major weighs just 6.3 ounces and measures 12.5 inches by 18 inches when fully packed.

That’s easily two pounds lighter than some of the lightest hard-sided bear canisters on the market. Since it’s a soft, collapsible bag, the Ursack is also much easier to pack than a bear canister. It only takes up as much space as your current food supply.

Ease of Use

The Ursack is simple to use without complicated or frustrating locking systems. The Ursack is designed to be a strong barrier against bears, not a puzzle to trick them. 

Keeping critters out still requires a process to be effective. First, ensure the two cord strands are crossing, then pull the drawstring shut and secure it with a double overhand knot. Bears aren’t the only animals after your food, so it’s important to have a tight enclosure to prevent small rodents from climbing in.

Once tied, you’ll need to secure the Ursack to a tree. A simple overhand knot around the trunk will suffice, but Ursack recommends using a quick-release knot like a slip knot so you can easily untie it after it has been pulled on by a bear all night. If possible, wrap it around a branch a few feet up to make it harder for a bear to get leverage.

Finding the right tree can sometimes be tricky, especially if the trunks are cluttered or branches are out of reach, but in most bear country, a good anchor is usually not far away.

A small but helpful bonus: the reflective cord and tag make it easy to find your bag with a headlamp after dark, so you don’t waste time wandering around the woods looking for your food.

Security

The Ursack’s security mainly depends on two factors: how well you use it and how motivated the local bears are. If you make sure to tie good knots, it’s unlikely that any woodland creature will make off with your entire food bag.

The IGBC has certified the Ursack as effective against grizzlies, though it’s important to note that their tests involve well-fed captive bears, not the hungry, pre-hibernation black bears you might encounter in the wild. Those clever scavengers are notoriously persistent.

In practice, the Ursack usually holds its own against most bears, but it’s not indestructible. There are several reports of persistent bears and other critters gnawing a hole in the UHMWP bag. Even if a bear can’t tear it open, it can still crush, squeeze, and pulverize your food into an unrecognizable mess. You’ll still have your rations in the morning—but maybe not in edible form.

For best results, we highly recommend pairing it with an odor-proof liner like a Smellyproof or Opsack. This combination significantly reduces scent and temptation, keeping your food safer—and hopefully less smushed.

Permit CompatibiLity

The Ursack carries the important IGBC certification for grizzly bear resistance—the key requirement for use in most regulated bear country. However, it doesn’t have a separate certification for black bears, which are often more persistent and dexterous when it comes to food raids.

Even with the IGBC’s stamp of approval, the Ursack isn’t accepted everywhere. Some national parks and wilderness areas still require a traditional hard-sided bear canister, so it’s crucial to double-check local regulations before relying solely on the Ursack.

To make that easier, Ursack prints a QR code inside each bag that links to an updated map showing where its use is approved, restricted, or prohibited. It’s a handy feature that helps prevent surprises when you reach the trailhead.

Capacity

The Ursack comes in several sizes to accommodate different trip lengths and group sizes, including the 10.6-liter Major, 15-liter Major XL, and the large 30-liter Major 2XL, which can hold approximately two weeks’ worth of food for one person. 

The Major is the most popular choice, offering enough capacity for about five days of backpacking meals while keeping bulk and weight low. It’s large enough to fit a SmellyProof Bag filled with 14 Good To-Go meals, or up to around 27 meals if you skip the odor barrier liner. This size is versatile enough for most backpackers on trips a week or shorter.

The larger XL and 2XL versions are ideal for longer trips or small groups. Regardless of size, each Ursack compresses easily when empty and weighs only a small fraction of what a bear canister does.

Should You Buy the Ursack Major?

The Ursack Major is ideal for backpackers and thru-hikers who prioritize low weight, flexibility, and packability over maximum protection. It’s suitable for those traveling through bear country where Ursacks are permitted and who are confident in their food storage techniques—such as tying secure knots, using odor-proof liners, and selecting good tie-off spots.

For lightweight adventurers, it provides a great balance of convenience and peace of mind, avoiding the bulk and awkwardness of a hard canister. 

However, it’s not the best choice for areas that strictly require canisters or for those seeking a completely foolproof barrier against strong bears. The Ursack is slightly larger than a typical bear canister, but if used correctly, it offers a lot of usefulness for a fraction of the weight. For those willing to trade some strength for a lighter, more packable setup, it’s one of the best bear canister alternatives available.

What Other Bear Canisters and Backpacking Food Storage Should You Consider?

Our full guide to food storage options covers everything from security-enhancing accessories to tank-like bears canisters.

Smellyproof Bags Review: Smellyproof Bags (or similar odor barrier) are essential for any non foolproof food storage method. At just half an ounce, they provide added security and peace of mind in bear country. They could be the difference that saves your food and the bear’s life.

Adotec Ultralight Bear Locker: This ultralight bear canister alternative is another soft-sided storage method. Like the Ursack, the Bear Locker benefits from the added security of Smellyproof Bags and easy packability.

Grubcan Carbon 6.6 Review: For hard-sided canisters, the Grubcan Carbon is the closest in weight to the Ursack. It functions like other hard-sided containers but weighs less than two pounds. However, these weight savings for the security of a hard-sided container come at a very high price.

Glacier National Park is known for its miles of breathtaking, majestic scenery. Many destinations in the park have long approaches, require multi-day backpacking trips, or steep, winding ascents.

With that in mind, we spent a month in Glacier discovering the most magnificent scenery that families with young children can easily access. Whether you’re visiting Glacier National Park with your family, including little ones, or looking for a break from the 10-mile slogs, these hikes will delight. 

If you’d like more options than what’s below, consider the newly released Falcon guidebook, Hiking with Kids Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks: 42 Great Hikes for Families, written by DuskHiker’s Roxy and Ben Dawson.

A few notes on hiking with kids: 

• It requires more than just tossing a water bottle in a backpack (oh the good ol’ days) —it demands forethought, planning, and awareness of environmental factors.
• Please take the necessary precautions before jumping on the trails:
  • Pack snacks, then throw in some more.
  • Bring layers of all types.
  • Carry bear spray and give all wildlife plenty of space. 
  • Be aware of trail etiquette that often gets thrown out the window with toddlers leading the way.
  • Practice leave no trace as much as possible.
  • Take a look at the Vehicle Reservation page on the Glacier Park website. It has information about when and where you need reservations to drive a car into the park.

For more information on hiking in Glacier, check out our Glacier National Park Backpacking Guide. Don’t be intimidated by the “backpacking”; there’s a ton of great info in there!

Saint Mary and Virginia Falls Trail 

• Distance: 3.75 miles total out and back
• Trailhead: Saint Mary’s Falls Parking Lot
• Elevation Gain: 500 feet
• Area: Saint Mary, east side of Going-to-the-Sun Road

This is a popular hike for good reason! It offers a spectacular glimpse into Glacier’s waterfall magic, with minimal effort up front and double big rewards by the end. Parking can be tricky in the summer, so consider taking the shuttle (which stops just west of the parking lot and has its own trail to begin with) or arriving early.

From the trailhead, you’ll descend past charred trees from the 2015 Reynolds Creek Fire—now blooming with wildflowers—and hopefully catch a glimpse of a moose cooling off in the lake (we did!). 

The first highlight is Saint Mary Falls, a thundering three-tiered cascade. This is a good turnaround point for those with toddlers. If you want to keep going, continue past Saint Mary Falls and you’ll find a stunning cascade along Virginia Creek with natural pools perfect for a relaxing snack break or a quick dip.

The final reward is Virginia Falls, a powerful 50-foot waterfall tucked into shady woods. This means it can be a tad cooler so it’s not an ideal place to take a swim, however, it is gorgeous. Mist from the falls keeps things damp, and the up-close views make this one of the most enchanting spots in the park for a mid-hike rest or picnic.

Grinnell Lake via Boat Ride from Many Glacier Hotel

• Distance: 2.8 miles total out and back
• Trailhead: Boat dock behind the Many Glacier Hotel (note, the AllTrails link above outlines the hike without taking the boat)
• Elevation Gain: 195 feet
• Area: Many Glacier

This family-friendly adventure to Grinnell Lake combines a scenic boat ride with an easy hike, making it one of our favorites in the Many Glacier Valley. You end up riding two separate boats—across Swiftcurrent Lake and then Lake Josephine—which cuts the hike down to just 2.8 miles round trip.

The boats, Chief Two Guns and Morning Eagle, offer jaw-dropping views and fun interpretive talks. Reservations fill up quickly, but waitlists are often successful, so don’t be discouraged if you’re planning a last-minute trip. We were able to get tickets multiple times using the waitlist method. 

After disembarking the second boat, you’ll find available restrooms. Stop here or begin the mostly flat, shaded trail through old-growth forest. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—moose and bears, particularly—and enjoy berry patches in late summer. At trail’s end, the stunning glacial blue of Grinnell Lake invites you to kick off your boots and soak your feet while taking in views of Angel Wing, Grinnell Mountain, and Grinnell Falls cascading down the distant cliffs.

Running Eagle Falls 

• Distance: 0.7 miles total out and back
• Trailhead: Running Eagle Falls (Trick Falls) Nature Trail parking lot
• Elevation Gain: 40 feet
• Area: Two Medicine

Running Eagle Falls is a short, peaceful hike with a big payoff. The trail begins paved and starts from a well-marked parking area with restrooms and benches. It then leads you through lush undergrowth and abundant wildflowers. Stay right at the signed nature trail junction and head toward the waterfall. Cross a bridge over Dry Fork before arriving at a viewing platform  – stake out your preferred hangout spot from there. 

Named for a legendary Blackfeet warrior woman, Running Eagle Falls appears to pour from the center of a cliff. During high water, it forms a rare double waterfall, cascading over and through the rock at the same time. 

Bring snacks and a towel—this is a great place to cool off and linger. Take the nature trail back for a quieter return along Two Medicine Creek and interpretive signs about local plants and their traditional uses.

Deadwood Falls 

• Distance: 2.3 miles total out and back
• Trailhead: Jackson Glacier Overlook / Gunsight Pass Trailhead
• Elevation Gain: 600 feet
• Area: Apgar, west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road

Though part of the longer Gunsight Pass Trail, the out-and-back hike to Deadwood Falls offers a quick taste of Glacier National Park’s stunning backcountry. Starting at the Gunsight Pass Trailhead on the east side of the parking area, the trail descends through forested terrain with mountain views before arriving at the falls. The narrow path winds through dense vegetation—we recommend long pants, especially for small kids. Depending on the time of year, you can barely see over the plants. 

At the bottom, Deadwood Falls rewards hikers with a series of cascades spilling over rock and fallen timber (hence the name). It’s a fun place to explore, wade, and learn how water shapes the land. Use caution around the step ledges. 

Just don’t forget—what goes down must come back up. The return hike climbs nearly 600 feet over a little more than a mile, so be sure everyone has the energy for the steady uphill finish.

Lake Josephine

• Distance: 5.1 miles total lollipop
• Trailhead: Grinnell Trailhead
• Elevation Gain: 250 feet
• Area: Many Glacier

This mostly flat, family-friendly loop in the Many Glacier Valley is a scenic gem, passing three lakes with big mountain views. Begin at the popular Grinnell Trailhead. If parking is scarce, there are many options to start this hike between that trailhead and the Many Glacier Hotel. After passing Stump Lake, the trail winds through the forest to reach the peaceful south shore of Lake Josephine—keep an eye out for moose, as sightings are common here. The boat dock at the far end of the lake offers a good rest stop with a shelter and a bathroom.

Return via the north shore trail, which is more open and popular with hikers headed to Grinnell Glacier. Don’t forget to turn around and admire the dramatic views of Mount Grinnell and Angel Wing. This lollipop loop is great for a full day of relaxed hiking, wildlife spotting, and lakeside lounging. The mileage may be daunting for some, but the rolling, easy elevation and massive views make it an excellent choice for a distance push.

Gear Recommendations for Hiking with Kids

To research these hikes and write Hiking with Kids Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks, we spent a month in Glacier camping and hiking every day. Here are a few of our favorites that got us through the month.

Osprey Poco Premium

We hiked with the Poco Plus and Osprey has since come out with the Poco Premium, which we have tested and prefer. The Poco Plus was our go-to choice for carrying our two-year-old around. He did miles and miles in this pack. The Poco Premium is one of our absolute favorites in our best baby backpack carriers for hiking guide. You can read a more in-depth review of it written by Ben.

Smartwool Hike Light Cushion – Kids and Adults

Do not underestimate the importance of socks for hiking kids! Our toddler would do almost a mile in his little socks and shoes and we wanted him in wool to prevent blisters caused by sweaty feet, and to keep him warm when conditions changed. These socks are also one of our top options in our best hiking socks guide.

LEKI Makalu Cork Lite Poles

We usually only grab poles when we’re tackling a 14er in Colorado or have huge backpacking packs on our backs, but when carrying the baby backpack carrier, they are a must. They keep you stable when the weight you’re carrying decides to pitch himself all the way to the right and you’re trying to go left. These poles are one of the most durable in our guide to the best trekking poles.

Petzl Tikkid Kids Headlamp

Camping with a kid is all about keeping it fun. We had hours back at our campsite exploring and learning. This headlamp kept it easy to keep the fun going after dark. It’s lightweight, doesn’t blind the adults around you, and has an automatic shutoff so the batteries don’t run out when it’s inevitably left on and forgotten about. This headlamp is our top option for kids in our gear guide to the best headlamps.

We often say parenting is easier when we’re adventuring. Everything is novel, there’s always a new trail, and the snacks are plentiful. We hope you have the chance to explore these hikes! And if you’re really into planning an adventure in Glacier, check out Hiking with Kids Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks.

REI Membership

If you’ve been using your parents’ membership until now, no worries! You can snag your own lifetime membership for $30 at checkout and be eligible for the 20% off coupon – it pays for itself with one big purchase. It comes with a boatload of valuable extras for the outdoor enthusiast. Here’s why we love it:

• Knowledgeable & friendly staff – We always have an awesome experience with the sales and customer service staff. They’re friendly and helpful, and they really know their stuff!
• Save money – There are so many benefits to membership, but some of our favorites include access to 20% off coupons a few times a year and 10% dividend back on full-price purchases (usually distributed in March of the following year).
• Get store credit at Re/Supply – Members can trade in lightly used gear for an upgrade and get store credit in exchange. See what your old gear is worth! During this sale, you can also snag a piece of Re/Supply gear for 20% off!
• REI brand products are a great value – The REI brand typically strikes a solid balance between quality and cost. Our list below has quite a few so check ’em out.
• An excellent return policy – If you make a purchase and it doesn’t quite work out the way you were expecting, you have a full year to return or exchange items.
• REI carries some niche ultralight brands – The company is now stocking formerly cottage industry brands such as Hyperlite Mountain Gear, as well as upgrading many of their REI brand product lines to focus on fast and light gear.

BIG AGNES Copper Spur UL2 Tent – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Backpacking Tent Overall
The Copper Spur HV UL2 is one of our favorite lightweight backpacking tents. Its freestanding design is a great balance of convenience, weather protection, and livability. Its durable materials make it resilient over long distances, and the bent-pole structure gives it nearly vertical sidewalls that maximize interior space. For those needing more room, there’s the HV UL3 or Long version, with a 96-inch floor length for taller hikers.

Find more tents in our Best Backpacking Tents Guide.

NEMO Aurora Highrise 4-Person Tent – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Camping Tent Overall
The NEMO Aurora Highrise 4 stands out for its spacious interior, durable build, and easy setup, making it a great choice for couples or families. Its giant front door tucks neatly away, the smaller rear door doubles as a large vent, and the white mesh provides visibility and privacy even in the rain. While the stuff sack is a bit snug and a footprint isn’t included, the Highrise offers excellent value with its roomy design and long-lasting construction.

Find more tents in our Best Backpacking Tents Guide.

REI Wonderland 4 – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Luxury Camping Tent
The REI Wonderland 4 is a spacious, well-designed luxury tent with a tall peak height, giant doors, and plenty of storage to keep gear organized. Despite its hefty 21-pound weight, it sets up quickly, provides excellent weather protection, and holds up well in strong winds. With durable materials and smart design features, it’s a top choice for campers who prioritize comfort and convenience.

Find more tents in our Best Camping Tents Guide.

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Tent – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Semi-Freestanding Tent
The Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 is an ultralight, semi-freestanding tent that balances weight, space, and weather protection, making it a great choice for solo hikers or ounce-conscious pairs. Its wider ridge pole provides more headroom than many ultralight tents, and a mezzanine pocket helps maximize floor space. The Tiger Wall has proven durable over thousands of miles, with only minor wear despite its lightweight materials. For those needing extra room, the Tiger Wall 3 offers additional floor space and peak height while remaining lighter than many 2P tents.

Find more tents in our Best Backpacking Tents Guide.

NEMO Disco 15 Endless Promise Down Sleeping Bag – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Extra Wide & Comfy Backpacking Sleeping Bag
The NEMO Disco 15 Endless Promise stands out for its roomy spoon shape, making it a top choice for side sleepers and a versatile option for both backpacking and car camping. While its extra space sacrifices some heat efficiency features like a pillow pocket and “Thermo Gills” for ventilation adds to its comfort. Plus, it’s part of NEMO’s Endless Promise program, designed for durability, easy repairs, and full recyclability to reduce environmental impact.

Find more sleeping bags in our Best Camping Sleeping Bags Guide.

NEMO Jazz 30 Double

Comfortable & Durable Sleeping Bag for Two
The NEMO Jazz 30 Double is a super cozy car camping sleeping bag with a roomy design, integrated bedsheet, and excellent warmth, making it one of the most comfortable options available. Thoughtful details like a full-size pillow pocket, smooth double zippers, and compatibility with the NEMO Roamer sleeping pad create a luxurious sleep system that feels like home. Though it comes at a high price and has a large packed size, its quality, durability, and comfort make it a worthwhile investment for campers who prioritize a cozy night’s sleep.

Find more sleeping bags in our Best Camping Sleeping Bags Guide.

REI Magma 15 – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Warm Sleeping Bag with Inclusive Sizing
The REI Magma 15 offers an inclusive size range and a refined fit that suits various body shapes. With a 21°F comfort rating and a highly efficient mummy design, it provides excellent warmth for cold sleepers and winter adventures. This lightweight, compressible sleeping bag is a top choice for backpackers needing reliable insulation in freezing conditions.

Find more sleeping bags in our Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags Guide .

NEMO Tensor Trail Ultralight Insulated – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Ultralight Rectangular Sleeping Pad
The NEMO Tensor Trail is impressively light for its comfort, offering a thick, quiet, and spacious sleeping surface in both rectangular and mummy shapes. It stands out for its extra cushioning, well-designed valve for quick inflation/deflation, and an excellent pump sack that makes setup a breeze. With an R-value of 2.8, it’s best suited for summer backpacking, and its ultralight build makes it a great option for thru-hikers.

Find more sleeping pads in our Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads Guide.

Exped MegaMat Sleeping Pad – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Camping Mattress Overall
The Exped MegaMat is one of the most comfortable camping mattresses available, with four inches of foam and air providing excellent support on uneven ground. Its high R-value of 8.1 ensures warmth on cold nights, and the easy self-inflation system makes setup a breeze. Though it’s bulky and pricey, the MegaMat’s durability, smart storage bag, and exceptional comfort make it a worthwhile investment for campers who prioritize quality sleep.

Find more camping mattresses in our Best Camping Mattresses Guide.

NEMO Tensor All-Season – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Backpacking Sleeping Pad Overall
The NEMO Tensor All-Season improves on an already great design with a higher R-value, added thickness, and impressively quiet materials, making it one of the best all-around sleeping pads for backpacking. It balances warmth, comfort, and low weight while offering excellent packability and a user-friendly valve system for quick inflation and easy adjustments. Compared to its main competition, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT, the Tensor is warmer, more affordable, and just as convenient, making it a top choice for three-season and mild winter trips.

Find more sleeping pads in our Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads Guide.

Osprey Talon 22 / Tempest 22 – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Daypack Overall
The Osprey Talon 22 and Tempest 22 are exceptionally comfortable and versatile daypacks, featuring padded straps, ventilated back panels, and an adjustable torso harness for a customizable fit. With plenty of storage options, including large hipbelt pockets and a helmet attachment clip, they’re well-suited for hiking, biking, and everyday use. While they’re a bit heavier and bulkier than minimalist options, their durability, smart design, and all-around functionality make them a worthwhile investment for those who want a reliable, do-it-all pack.

Find more packs in our Best Hiking Daypacks Guide.

REI Flash 22 – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Minimalist Daypack
The REI Flash 22 is an affordable, lightweight, and versatile daypack that’s great for everything from short hikes to fastpacking adventures. While it lacks structure and heavy padding, its smart pocket layout, removable sit pad, and easy-access water bottle holders make it a convenient choice for minimalists. At just 14 ounces, it’s one of the lightest options available, packing down small for travel while still offering enough comfort for all-day wear.

Find more packs in our Best Hiking Daypacks Guide.

REI Flash 55 – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Backpacking Backpack Overall
The REI Flash 55 is a lightweight, budget-friendly backpacking pack with a unique modular “Packmod” system that allows hikers to customize straps and pockets or remove them to save weight. It’s comfortable and well-designed, with forward-facing water bottle pockets and thoughtful storage, but it’s best suited for loads under 30 pounds. For budget-conscious backpackers who prioritize versatility and low weight, the Flash 55 is an excellent choice.

Find more packs in our Best Backpacking Backpacks Guide.

Osprey Atmos / Aura AG 65 Pack – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Backpacking Backpack for Carrying 35+ lb.
The Osprey Atmos AG 65 and Aura AG 65 are exceptionally comfortable and supportive when carrying 35-50 pounds, thanks to their comfy padding and AntiGravity suspension system. With multiple access points and plenty of storage, they’re ideal for beginners or those who prioritize comfort over weight savings. For a lighter alternative with a similar fit, the Atmos LT and Aura LT streamline features while maintaining excellent carry support.

Find more packs in our Best Backpacking Backpacks Guide.

Ultraventure 4 Trail-Running Shoes – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Balance of Weight, Support & Breathability
The Topo Ultraventure 4s are lightweight, breathable, and grippy, making them a favorite among our team for versatile hiking. They balance a natural foot shape with ample cushioning, blending the best of trail runners and hiking shoes. While the higher stack height can feel unstable on technical terrain, they’re exceptionally comfortable for long miles on well-established trails.

Find more shoes in our Best Hiking Shoes for Women and Best Hiking Shoes for Men Guides.

HOKA Speedgoat 6 – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Hiking Shoes Overall
The HOKA Speedgoat 6 is a lightweight, ultra-cushioned shoe that excels at absorbing impact and keeping feet comfortable on long hikes. Its durable CMEVA foam, woven upper, and dual-gusset tongue enhance longevity, weather resistance, and stability. While the taller stack height can feel unstable under heavy loads, the updated lugs and rockered sole provide excellent traction and efficiency on the trail.

Find more shoes in our Best Hiking Shoes for Women and Best Hiking Shoes for Men Guides.

Lowa Renegade EVO GTX – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Hiking Boots Overall – Women’s
The Lowa Renegade EVO GTX is a durable, high-quality boot designed for rugged terrain and heavy loads. Despite the steep price, its tough Nubuck leather, supportive polyurethane midsole, and Vibram outsole make it a worthwhile investment. With a comfortable fit after break-in, varied sizing options, and excellent traction, it’s a reliable choice for demanding hikes.

Find more shoes in our Best Hiking Boots for Women and Best Hiking Boots for Men Guides.

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Hiking Boots Overall – Men’s
The Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 GTX is an exceptionally lightweight and comfortable hiking boot that requires little to no break-in time. It strikes a balance between the agility of a high-top trail runner and the stability of a mid-height boot, making it ideal for backpackers carrying up to 35 pounds. While it sacrifices some durability and support compared to heavier boots, its comfort, grip, and waterproofing make it a great choice for fast-moving hikers on well-maintained trails.

Find more shoes in our Best Hiking Boots for Women and Best Hiking Boots for Men Guides.

REI Trailmade pants – EDITOR’s PICK

Best Affordable Lightweight Hiking Pants
The REI Trailmade pants are an affordable, lightweight option for warm-weather hiking, with excellent breathability and quick-drying performance. The pants have five spacious pockets, a tapered athletic fit, and stretchy nylon construction, they provide comfort and flexibility on both short and long hikes. While they aren’t built for extreme weather or rugged terrain, they’re a great choice for hikers looking for a budget-friendly, stylish, and functional pair of pants.

Find more pants in our Best Hiking Pants for Women and Best Hiking Pants for Men Guides.

KUHL Renegade Convertible – EDITOR’s PICK

Durable Convertible Pants with Practical Shorts Mode
The KÜHL Renegade Convertible Pants are durable, feature-rich zip-offs with excellent pocket organization and adjustable ankle snaps for ventilation and debris protection. They convert smoothly into comfortable, natural-looking shorts, avoiding the bulky seams common in convertible pants. While heavier and less breathable than some competitors, they’re a top choice for shoulder-season hikes with wide temperature swings.

Find more pants in our Best Hiking Pants for Women and Best Hiking Pants for Men Guides.

Patagonia Quandary Pants – EDITOR’s PICK

Comfortable, Lightweight Hiking Pants with a Simple Pocket Design
The Patagonia Quandary pants are lightweight, functional, and comfortable for both trail miles and casual wear. With a well-designed fit, gusseted crotch for mobility, and a zippered thigh pocket, they offer practicality without bulk. Their breathable fabric, quick-drying performance, and durable water repellent (DWR) coating make them a solid choice for summer hikes and everyday adventures.

Find more pants in our Best Hiking Pants for Women and Best Hiking Pants for Men Guides.

This post is sponsored by REI, but our commitment to honest, unbiased gear reviews remains unchanged. Sponsorship does not influence the products we choose to review or how we evaluate them. All opinions expressed are our own, and we maintain full editorial independence to ensure our readers receive fair and transparent gear reviews.