Beginner climbing gear for women: what to buy first
Climbing shoes, harnesses, a helmet and a chalk bag for new climbers: what to rent, what to buy first and the women's models worth comparing.
Gear
Best hiking daypacks for women (20–30 L), by trail and torso
Women's daypacks for short hikes, long days, hot weather and tight budgets, compared on torso range, weight, ventilation and hydration.
Best hiking pants and leggings for women
Stretchy trail pants, roll-ups or tough leggings? The women's hiking pants worth buying, with fabrics, inseam lengths, UPF and honest trade-offs.
Best rain jackets for women hikers, compared
Women's rain jackets for hiking compared on weight, layers, venting, hood and PFAS, from ultralight shells to budget picks, with honest trade-offs.
Best sports bras for hiking and trail running
Merino or synthetic, pullover or clasp, low or high impact: the sports bras that work under a backpack, on long trail days and on fast descents.
Best trail running shoes for women, by terrain and foot type
Rocky, muddy or smooth trails, wide or narrow feet: the women's trail running shoes that suit each one, with drop, lugs, weight and honest trade-offs.
Trekking poles for shorter hikers: women's and petite picks
Many trekking poles don't adjust short enough for hikers under 5'4". Compare minimum lengths, grips and weights to find poles that fit you.
Best hiking boots for women, by foot type
Wide, narrow, flat arches or heavy loads? The women's hiking boots that fit each foot type, with weights, waterproofing and honest trade-offs.
Female urination devices for hiking, compared
Rigid, flexible or disposable? We compare pStyle, Shewee, Tinkle Belle, GoGirl and silicone funnels on weight, length, packability and ease of cleaning.