5 Pieces of Gear to Make Your Hikes Even Better

If you’re an avid hiker, you might be familiar with the famous Ten Essentials. It’s a list of important items you should bring along to stay safe on any hike. But are there any other pieces of gear you can take hiking to make the adventure even more enjoyable? From using wide toe running shoes for maximum comfort to bringing a fishing pole when hiking near mountain lakes, the right items can take your hiking experience to the next level. Here are five suggestions to bring on your next hike.


Comfortable Shoes

Women’s or mens wide athletic shoes are the best way to increase your comfort while hiking. Whether you’re running the trails or taking your time to appreciate the scenery, a hiking-specific trail shoe with a secure, comfortable fit is a better option than a standard sneaker or a heavy boot. Athletic shoes are designed with the right amount of cushioning to keep your feet comfortable, and a low-drop platform can help facilitate a more natural stride. Plus, you can search for a design with a wide toe box so your toes have plenty of room to splay.

Bone-Conduction Headphones

Bone-conduction headphones don’t go in your ears—they use the bones near your ears to conduct sound. This means you can take a hike or go for a run on your favorite trail while listening to your favorite music or podcasts without disrupting your ability to hear your surroundings. You won’t take animals or other hikers by surprise, but you can still get in the zone for solo hiking adventures.

GPS Device

A GPS device is one of the classic Ten Essentials, and it’s on this list for more than just helping you avoid getting lost. With a reliable GPS device, it’s easy to go geocaching—a fun activity the whole family can enjoy. The location of each geocache is listed by its GPS coordinates. Note the coordinates before you head out so you don’t have to worry about cell service during your hike. Make sure to choose durable women’s or mens wide shoes in case you need to go off the trail to find a geocache. Some are easy to find, while others are cleverly hidden. Still others are stored in puzzle boxes, rewarding you with a logbook or even a small prize.

A Fishing Pole

If your hike is going to take you near a lake or stream, take a fishing pole along. You might need a fishing license, depending on the area where you’re hiking. Either way, you only need a few supplies to take in your pack to cast out a line. It’s an excellent way to take your time and feel truly immersed in your surroundings. You can take a traditional fishing rod, a fly-fishing pole, or a light, portable model—whatever works best. On your next extended excursion or backpacking trip, you can take a break from your hike, try to catch a fish, and enjoy the great outdoors.

A Camera

If you like to keep your pack light, your smartphone is a great camera option. If you want to capture the memories and do the spectacular natural views justice, you can bring along a dedicated camera. From insects and animals to the view from the top of a hill or mountain, you can capture it all. Whether you’re taking the family out for a nature walk or you’re content to enjoy the trail at a slower pace, a high-quality camera lets you remember every moment.

About Topo Athletic

Topo Athletic is on a mission to help you keep moving! With every step you take, their performance running shoes embody a commitment to embracing the journey day after day. Topo Athletic’s innovative, gimmick-free designs are perfect for anyone who wants to run and move more naturally. Healthy feet are vital for mobility, fitness, and an active lifestyle. Topo’s roomy toe box, secure fit, and low-drop platforms promote optimal foot health, better posture, and a more natural running, walking, or hiking experience. These unique design features are the Topo Difference that allows you to stride for more. Better movement means enjoying more of the adventures that life is all about. Savor the moment, appreciate the world around you, and experience the extraordinary.

Find wide toe shoes for trail running and hiking at https://www.topoathletic.com/

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