top of page
Gear we use and love!
Below are some of our favorite products we take with us on every hike! If you're new to hiking these items will point you in the right direction. However, ultimately, it depends on where you hike, the distance you hike, and personal preferences. It can be overwhelming when you are just starting out so here are a few recommendations and feedback on why these made the cut.
In case you're wondering... we don't receive any compensation from the sale of these products!
Robert's Picks and Feedback

Lowa Innva GTX Mid Hiking Boot
Slip them on and start hiking. No wearing in, extremely comfortable, and I love the mid for great ankle support. GTX breathes and wasn’t hot on the feet in mid-summer in Palo Duro Canyon doing field work for our latest trail guide.

Arcteryx Beta Lightweight Jacket
If you hike regularly and want the best, this is it. Very packable, breathes extremely well, water proof and will last a lifetime. We also have the Arcteryx Beta AR jacket for extreme hiking conditions in Canada and Patagonia, very impressive specifications.

Col Becchei Softshell Jacket
A great jacket for winter alpine sports - has zones to keep the wind and snow at bay, while the stretch offers great range of movement. The merino wool on the inside keeps me warm and the ventilation zippers help for demanding day.s

Ortovox 120 Comp Light Base Layer
Wool is by far the best material for any outdoor sport, and Ortovox uses the finest, softest Merino you can buy. Surprisingly light and comfortable, we swear by our Ortovox base layers. Wicks away sweat, keeps you cool and provides protection from the elements. Hoo Haa!! We not only wear our base layers for hiking, but also for cross-country and downhill skiing and its performance is second to none.

Ortovox Fleece Grid Jacket
I have multiple Ortovox jackets, but this is my go to for hiking. It's lightweight but warm and comfortable.

Ortovox Fleece Grid Vest
I live in this vest as it has the ultimate flexibility. It's great for around town, hiking, nordic skiing and everything in between.

Kuhl Deceptr Pant
I bought 4 pairs of these pants years ago and they are my go-to travel and hiking pants. Great pocket design, comfortable, water resistant, and wash/dry quickly when on the road. Look great on the trail or standing at the bar.

Tilly T4MO AIrflow Hikers Hat
Give caps the flick. Protect the face, ears and head with a good hat, that reduces the effects of wind, rain and heat. My Tilley wicks moisture from my head, provides shade for the eyes and is super comfortable. This hat travels the world with me.

Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles
I’m never on the trail without these hiking poles. Often only one as most of the time I have a camera in my other hand. These poles are sturdy, great for stability over rocks, moving thorny bushes out of the way, and keeping unwanted critters at bay. They lend a helping hand going up and down hill and make a good splint should I ever need one! The cork handle is super comfortable and prevents my hand from slipping. They collapse to a reasonably small size and come apart easily to fit in my checked luggage when travelling.
To check them out click the link below.
To check them out click the link below.

Mazama AXE 3L Hydration Reservoir
Easy fill, drink, clean and reliable. Have lost count on the number of hikes this reservoir has been on and easily fits in my pack. Always use the 3L, although I also have the 2L. Can never have enough hydration on the trail.

Apple Watch Ultra
I have the Ultra 1 and so glad I bought it. Amazing connectivity and health features, rugged, accurate GPS and easy to read. Don’t go anywhere without it.

inReach Explorer + 2 Way Satellite Comms by Garmin
I bought the Delorme model well before they were taken over by Garmin and I wouldn’t go anywhere without it. We have access to emergency services globally and not only when hiking but travelling in general. The Explorer syncs with my iPhone for easy texting and if we were ever in a dangerous situation help is always inReach. Ha ha!
The inReach Explorer helps us keep in touch with family and friends when there’s no cell reception - which is most places we like to hike! We use a Recreation Plan so we can turn on/off the service on a monthly basis - which is more cost effective as we only pay for it when we need it. We’ve had ours for several years and feel it is a fundamental investment in our safety.
To check it out click the link below.
The inReach Explorer helps us keep in touch with family and friends when there’s no cell reception - which is most places we like to hike! We use a Recreation Plan so we can turn on/off the service on a monthly basis - which is more cost effective as we only pay for it when we need it. We’ve had ours for several years and feel it is a fundamental investment in our safety.
To check it out click the link below.
Jen's Picks and Feedback
bottom of page