Favorite Hiking Gear

[@adampetriw9224]

Your videos inspired me to complete 1600km (1000mi) of hiking this last summer. This next summer I will be attempting the Great Divide Trail in Canada as a solo hiker. I don’t think most people realize how much work goes into documenting your travels and making these videos. You’re an absolute legend at this point! My favorite piece of gear was hands down the Arc’teryx Cormac hoodie. It’s like the Ferrari of sun hoodies. Extremely lightweight, drys in a flash, absolute perfection. I took that thing everywhere with me: Canada’s coast line, subalpine and alpine, up mountains, on glaciers, in snow, rock climbing, etc. It’s incredible. On my adventures, I always kept thinking about your channel and how you would probably love one of these. It’s currently sold out, but you should consider getting one before deciding to make your own. When you wear one, and only one, garment for months at a time, you want it to be quality. I’m sending you this gift so you can buy one (hopefully they put out new ones in the spring, but you never know with Arc’teryx; they are not the heavyweight version currently on sale). I bought the Amazon version, and there was no comparison. That said, you are a humble and simple man that has showed all of us that expensive gear is not necessary for incredible adventures, which is something I loved about you from the beginning. This is a small way to say thanks… the inspiration you gave me, and so many others, over the years to finally get out there and have incredible adventures is ultimately priceless. Again, many thanks, from Alberta, Canada

[@kraigadams]

nice to hear and have fun on that CA CDT

[@CanadianSkylights]

Have a great time on the GDT. I did 900 km on it this year and made a video on my channel if you are interested!

[@adampetriw9224]

Many thanks! I most certainly will check it out. Information can be scarce, so I most definitely appreciate it!

[@raczyk]

There brown bears on the GDT? If so what protection do you bring with you?

[@adampetriw9224]

@@raczyk Bear spray. I also have bear bangers, but probably won’t take those with me on the GDT. I’ve been charged by a grizzly bear and seen many, some too close for comfort. Firearms are not allowed nor are they required. Hiking in groups helps a lot, but I always hike solo. Good practice with food storage is also essential to preventing unwanted encounters. Most of the time, they do not want anything to do with you, but it’s important to understand some basic principles about bears, body language (predatory vs defensive postures), and how to respond appropriately. For me, a garmin GPS communicator is always nonnegotiable in terms of general safety in the backcountry. But at the end of the day, do not let grizzly bears deter you from enjoying the great outdoors! Our Canadian Rockies are vast and so incredibly beautiful! Or put differently, you are at much greater risk getting shot as a child in an American school than getting mauled by a grizzly bear… and a lot of Americans don’t seem to have issues with that. Hope this helps.

[@claudia1215]

I really like that you are still using gear from years ago. Sends a nice message about using what you have, not spending a ton of money on the hot new thing, and being a bit less consumerist.

[@lf2334]

For anyone concerned about the cost of all of this, just buy the material, not the brand name. For example, the Path Projects Killam pants are 100% polyester. Polyester is a very cheap material to produce. It's literally plastic that has been processed and fluffed into fabric. Most of these brands are using marketing to trick you into thinking you need $100 pants for hiking. Just buy 100% polyester jogger pants and they'll be exactly the same give or take. There are a plethora of brands that sell polyester, nylon, spandex blends for very cheap. It may just not be a brand you've heard of, not sold at REI, and not marketed for hiking purposes, but at the end of the day, it's the same thing. Polyester is polyester. If money isn't an object for you, buy the expensive brands. Why not? The diminishing returns are huge though. After having several of these brands, I can't bring myself to pay what they ask anymore. It isn't worth it. I just buy plain items with no logos like the Amazon hoodie that he mentions in the video. It's just as good as my $90 Kuhl poly/spandex blend hoodie, and I'm confident it will last just as long. I've also climbed over 15 mountains and am an avid hiker, and I've always asked the guides what they wear. Roughly half just wear random branded items and often times it's very old gear. None of this is necessary, but if it makes you feel good, then go for it. I don't doubt that these things are of better quality overall, but again, the diminishing returns are massive. Buy what you can afford, and don't wear cotton. You'll be fine.

[@benjaminstevens8641]

While generally I would agree with you when it comes to basic items for easy and not technical related mountain tasks I would have to disagree when it comes to high alpine climbing, mountaineering, climbing and ice climbing you get what you pay for and the cost is definitely worth it for some brands as it is rated for extreme conditions and rigorously tested to provide you with the best gear I would never wear a Costco rain jacket in Patagonia climbing I’m not trusting a shitty jacket that will fall apart and fail on me

[@JaySpear]

I have high quality gear that I buy used or thrift. This is the way.

[@Jon-hb6gx]

Semi-agree. I haven't found anything like the Path Projects Sykes shorts, from the US or in Europe, for the same or less money. Some polyester is thin, some thick, some stretchy because they've blended it with something. Then there's the cut. Then there's customer service and eco credentials. Then there's repair options and supporting sustainable and fair supply chains. Some items, like running/hiking tops, can be pretty cheap. Second hand quality is great and cheap.

[@derbirider6646]

I really enjoyed that you were Open about Brands sending you their products

[@HyperliteMountainGear]

Can't wait to see the Waypoint 35 along with you for upcoming adventures!

[@SubaruObk313]

Hey Kraig! Thanks for putting in the effort of making a video about your gear. I love your vids, the soothing voice, nice shots, the music. Its a very, very calming experience to watch your content. I wish you a great year, lots of miles to hike and videos for us to see. Thanks!

[@andytavs2890]

Thank you kraig, Very informative as I am looking at some new hiking gear. Going hiking in Azores Portugal in February. Then Latin America, peru, Chile and Bolivia in April. Your videos have inspired me plenty. Look forward to 2024

[@Word187]

My favorite yearly video!

[@alanjones4333]

Excellent Kraig, thank you. Been a challenging year for my family and I think many others... Really looking forward to your positive, value creating videos in 2024 I've severe osteoarthritis in my right hip so all the light gear tips are great! hoping to do the Camino Portuguese with my neighbour and his dad next September... hip permitting ! best to your family these holidays... love to the recent Instagram posts... Alan

[@jata1]

This video covers your hiking gear - can you also do a video on your 'travel' gear? Like how do you have all this in your carry-on luggage only? Do you travel with any other clothes or bags?

[@CaueBrasil100]

I'm having the same issue trying to understand that x)

[@peligeustalos4141]

that is his travel gear

[@bv6599]

So helpful. Thank you for updating this video!

[@playarabbit]

Thanx for doing these videos man, having a wife and kids traveling the world from time to time it's great to watch your videos to think more minimalist mindset in packing so I can make sure we're not traveling heavy

[@TpetPlayr]

Glad you finally found Darn Tough Socks! They truly are the best! And I can vouch for their return policy as well.

[@TpetPlayr]

@kevinstarski1598 that's true. But even then, they're so durable, and comfy, if they last long enough, to me it's worth it.

[@eldiablo2044]

I can vouch for darn tough socks. Been wearing them everday for over a decade and when you wear them out they will send you a new pair.

[@bigbrowntrout1]

Excellent video! Thanks for sharing your best gear of the year. It's awesome to see items that work well for you that are on the cheap and some higher priced stuff that you've put through the ringer. The variety is helpful! Many thanks!

[@DagUTube]

Great, and clear. Thanks! I still need the tutorial to pack everything (at least camping gear + clothes)n in this small bag

[@MarieVaugn]

A very extensive list! My favorite thing to take with me is my HomeFi hotspot, it's been so helpful.

[@eric55406]

It's interesting to see both the updated gear as well as what is still favorite after being used for a while. That old favorite gear is actually the best recommendation as you must have tried different gear to realize what is best. I've dialed in my gear this past year and will be doing the Four Pass Loop in June 2024, inspired by one of your past videos 🙂

[@dereksniper3094]

8:18 I have that same water filter and was wondering if it ever just stops letting water through? It happens to me and I always have to remember to run hot water through it before a trip.

[@rosek2967]

So you finally went with Darn Tough socks!! Can't believe it's taken you so long to find out how great these socks are. They're the only hiking socks I'll wear. Welcome aboard--better late than never! 😁

[@panhandlejake6200]

Great gear list - the smoothies look like something to try. Another power option- -- I had only used power banks, also carrying a large one on longer hikes. Then I had one hike planned where I didn't think that even the large bank would be satisfactory - so I tested a small solar panel and it worked surprisingly well. I now have a 3 oz 6V panel that charges a 3 oz 5000 mAh bank. I was able to keep my camera, watch, InReach, a small MP3 player and phone (used minimally) all topped off. We had two straight days of drizzle where I could not use the panel and I was still able to finish the hike with a nearly fully charged bank.

[@omelnikov]

@panhandlejake6200 What is the brand/model of your solar panel? Thanks!

[@panhandlejake6200]

@@omelnikov I use a Lexada panel available through Amazon. It is actually a 5V (6 v was a typo). It is spec'd at 10W, but is more like 5W - and it won't charge some of my my older battery banks for some reason - works fine with the newer 5000 mAh bank. It takes at least 6 hours to fully charge the new bank on a sunny day and longer if it is cloudy.

[@MrBluoct]

Appreciate this content and the efforts represented- 🤙

[@thebornos4203]

Me and my sis are planning to hike the Appalachian TRAIL! So this is helpful thank you 👍

[@iftekharuddin]

Got introduced to Darn Tough 4 years ago and have never looked back.

[@NoeticEidetics]

That Patagonia pant is one of the best damn pants in the world. I have a greyish blue pair and I wear them pretty much every day. Hope the company keeps them around for a long time.

[@DanielRaghu]

This is super helpful! I've always wondered how you protect your camera and lenses when you hike especially since you're able to just take what you need.

[@saucycardinal3322]

would love to see a backpack packing video for that new hyperlite bag. For some reason I just can't see how you would fit everything for 2-3 day trip in a 35 liter bag

[@fernando-kw]

Excellent video! Appreciate all the work in the videos, also I ‘ m a mountaineer from Argentina, were I made some treks you visited in patagonia! best for 2024

[@rodrev_hiking6757]

The HMG waypoint 35 is an AMAZING pack . I bought it for my GF . I still use my LiteAF 40L , my Girl only needs to carry her big Agnes Rapide SL sleeping Pad and Ugq Quilt plus her layers and some food. I carry our Dyneema Tent plus cooking Kit and Food plus rest of my Gear. For Sunhoodie i swear on the Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro

[@TimmyCarver]

I knew this was coming before 2023 ended have a blessed year’s end Adams!

[@DaveCraige]

Great ideas. Thanks for sharing your gear ideas openly.

[@dekker8178]

the Arc'teryx Aerios 15 has been one of the best day packs i've ever used!!! so comfy with any amount of weight. I remove the bottom straps for day use and put them back on for a bike ride or a run.

[@dekker8178]

PS. how has it already been one year since the last one!!!???

[@Setifire23]

Very informative! Thank you! Interested in a video on the download maps etc.

[@commarfordfamily7817]

As a fan of lightweight running hats, what brand is the gray one? Great video

[@potato-fk8jt]

That Southwest has been going for a few years! Shame they moved production to Mexico rather than Maine, heard they've got some production inconsistencies.

[@PrybarCommando]

They definitely do. Expensive, thin straps, and now the quality has tanked. Not good. But many cottage brands doing it better at the same price or less

[@hike2fish]

Excellent Kraig, I use some of the same gear and I like your suggestions as well. Cheers.

[@matevzkrajnik94]

Have you thought about the Peak Design Capture Clip for mountinf the camera on the backpack strap? I love using it, it's so quick to secure the camera onto the strap and take it off for a shot.

[@shahabhussain]

Have a great new year Kraig!

[@JoaoRodrigues_photo]

Hello Craig! I really love all of your hiking videos, they are truly inspiring and really well assembled. They give a nice calm vibe. I was looking for some shorts: do you recommend 5 inch or 7 inch shorts? keep up the amazing work buddy!

[@stonedapeadventures]

peax backcountry duo headlamp, has an awesome red light and battery.

[@PMR]

thank you for all the videos this year :) onto 2024 for more

[@Ali_ReBORN]

I knew this was coming before 2023 ended 😄 have a blessed year’s end Adams!

[@ParkourSchweiz]

Check out the Nitecore NU21 headlamp and also check out the powerbanks NB10000 and NB20000.

[@guguita1144]

Merry Xmas Kraig, thanks for your videos

[@mewli7402]

Also switching from the SW2400 to the Waypoint35, haven't use it yet but I'm very excited about this new backpack.

[@CaryMercer]

How often do you replace your Katadyn water filter? Mine seem to clog pretty quickly. Any tip(s) to unclog?

[@NoeticEidetics]

Yep, Darn Tough is a great brand. Best wool socks. Better than Smartwool.

[@vladd.i]

I got a Nemo Hornet after watching your old gear video but I had to return it to REI after the first trip in Norway because I didn’t find it suitable for conditions I usually camp in the Nordics. Not very wind resistant with a giant gap in the front, can’t easily pitch it fly-first so that’s an issue if it’s raining when you set up camp. Didn’t work for me but that’s okay.

[@kennymandalupa424]

video on how you "pack" all these efficiently pleaseeee

[@mamatengotos1]

i was wondering about the same thing. how on earth would he be able to pack all those things in that tiny backpack 😂

[@clarkmadrosen1780]

I like Thorlo socks. No blisters and very comfortable for many yrs. Approx $12 a pair. 😊

[@javieralvarez3280]

Don't forget to mention that the most important thing you have is your body. Which keeps you in optimal conditions of flexibility and exercise to be able to do all those routes. Could you comment one day in a video on what type of maintenance exercise you do to keep your body up to date?

[@Dimitri.Schepens]

darn tough is amazing, go to a store or send em in if you got holes and you get another pair! jsut amazing specially for us thru hikers ;D

[@konradmikola]

Would be interesting how you pack for trips if you use the airplane. Must be a nightmare at the check in control if you only travel with hand luggage. Would be also nice to see what do you also pack. toothbrush etc.

[@dante_pilman]

Awesome! Thank You!

[@crlan8434]

Love path projects. I've been using their shorts and pants for about 3 years now. I also use darn tough socks and they do replace for free when they start getting holes. When you travel is your backpack your main bag/ what you carry on? Keep the videos coming!

[@kraigadams]

I'll try to go carry on and yes, keep everything in my hiking pack if possible but usually bring a small patagonia duffle for while I'm hiking

[@colinwalker-watson7219]

Excellent gear list. But one item that I never see is an eyemask. If you're in northern Europe, I mean close to the Arctic Circle, in July or August it gets light at about 3 a.m. And that early light always wakes me up through translucent tent material. With a comfortable eyemask - found in any airport - you will however need an alarm, but a good night's sleep is guaranteed.

[@diaperdood1]

Thank you for always showing us your updated gear ❤

[@jonathanlanderos2266]

Those hats are cool! Might try them

[@rladbgh10]

흥미로운 장비소개 잘봤습니다 후디는 아마존에서 바로 주문합니다 :)

[@rullyhikingstories]

Hi Kraig... please try the Indonesia' Mt.Rinjani sometime near future

[@calebe16]

Hello Kraig, I was curious about one thing. Don't you use any filters to control the shutter speed on your camera and drone? Could you tell your approach on it? I've been starting to make videos and everybody always talk about the 180 rule. I just figured it's really difficult to get the 1/50 shutter speed and correct exposure. That's why I was looking into the variable ND filters, but noticed they are quite expensive.

[@EV_Jojo]

Hi Kraig, one of the first to use the Waypoint 35. Do you think it could also be used for fastpacking? Is it bouncy with about 7,5kg in it?

[@seniorbrusko]

do you have a video on how you pack your gears?

[@MaylesTrails]

I have 3 pairs of the Patagonia Terrabone joggers, and they're really comfortable. But I do like the look of the Path Project pants, because of the zipped pockets and zipped ankle cuffs. How do they compare? Are they a similar fit? Similar lightweight material?

[@guitarwithtom6041]

Hey Kraig, thanks for the content. Recently came across the whole PFAS debate in outdoor gear. I think many of the brands you use have a commitment to become PFAS free, would you be able to clarify what is and what isn’t PFAS free currently?

[@jadenlesser8519]

The link for the anker chargers is only for the bigger version. What is the name of the smaller one? That’s the one I’m looking to buy for my hikes

[@FinancialCharles]

can you bring microspikes in a carryon luggage? i flew to san francisco last year to hike in yosemite during the winter and left my spikes at my moms house because i didnt know if i was allowed to fly back with them in my carry on luggage lol

[@hvks2y5]

When you’re on the trail what settings are you shooting with? so you set it up and record & move quick

[@razvanmarinescu9062]

Hello what would be your choice between HMG 2400 and HMG Waypoint 35, for 2-3 day trip? Best wishes

[@scihiker]

Hi Kraig thank you so much for this list. How do you film when you walk?Does someone film you or do you use drones? Thank you so much

[@FreeWilly22]

Do you carry any sort of wildlife protection? Sprays, whistles, etc?

[@atony8155]

wow it’s amazing to see Taiwan mountains in a video about outdoor gear sharing in english😂

[@notme756]

what suncreen do you use?

[@eks3]

Do you use the Gore-tex versions of your trail runners, or the ones without (breathability vs. waterproofing is more important?) Thank you! :)

[@mikaeleedelamarter9312]

Hi, what do you store your food in to keep critters out?

[@minghanc8006]

how are u able to fly with your tent? Is there a risk of customs taking away your tent stakes or tent pole?

[@madi3006]

I’ve been waiting 4 years for you to use darntuffs. The next thing you’ll love will be zpacks duplex

[@janosadelsberger]

I' thinking about getting the DJI mini 4 Pro and I'm not really sure if I should go for the fancy remote or the one where you use your phone. Why did you get the one with the screen? Seems a bit redundant if you carry your phone anyway.

[@AnhNguyen-fe6sg]

Thats a lot of miles! Did you count the mileage when you have to double back and set up the epic camera shots lol

[@alndi3]

Path Projects shorts are the best. I have 4 pairs lol. Their underwear is good too.

[@mapadebolsillo]

What size of bag do you use for the drone and controller?

[@JscWilson]

Are you still using the Garmin InReach, or anything similar?

[@kraigadams]

just have the iPhone gps call feature these days

[@Jasiel.95]

@@kraigadamsSOS? have you tested it in the backcountry?

[@NoeticEidetics]

Nice smoothie recommendation 🤔.

[@Irufa6]

It looks like you are using the shockmount from the video micro 2 for your video mic go 2. Did you buy that seperately somewhere, or did you just get that from buying the video micro 2 as well? thanks

[@dastanabilev]

Craig, how do you hike for 3-4 days with 35l backpack? This is mystery for me.

[@4ndj]

wow such useful :)

[@Am-ug9np]

Why did you switch to a white pack? Trying to decide which color I want

[@denysshumskyi]

Hey, what about Elevate 22 l, do you have experience with this pak?

[@matthewwilkinson9476]

He finally discovered Path Projects, the best running gear that exists.

[@greateagle5555]

Where do you source the music used in your videos?

[@Nicholas_Charles]

Do you use a smart watch to track hikes and fitness metrics?

[@kraigadams]

I've tried a few and have an Apple Watch Ultra sent from Apple but always revert to just using my iPhone for everything because it works great and is always with me

[@AwexMunguia]

You should do Norway next

[@AustenSummers]

He did already

[@filipantolovic2905]

do you use gtx version of salomon speedcross or regular?

[@thisismelissalang]

Do you wear any kind of watch to record/track your hikes?

[@kraigadams]

I tried the Apple watch but ended up getting rid of it and returning to just using my iPhone for everything

[@reesereissig1181]

What ND filter do you use?

[@may33your32]

Hi man, what is location 1.42min ??)))

[@GamingLoadown101]

which videos did you record exclusively with the Iphone?

[@BarisDuygu-q2u]

Bro, have you also boots? Or do you usually run always in shorter shoes? Also have you ever tried barefoot shoes?

[@MOGirlOutside]

I like using All Trails better than Gaia but some say the maps aren’t always accurate. Have you ever had this kind of experience with it?

[@CaryMercer]

I have experienced inaccurate maps with AllTrails, but it seems to be a small percentage of their maps.

[@PMurray2694]

Alltrails has been extremely accurate for me here in Arizona, though it definitely does not have ALL trails mapped. Most trails would be a better name

[@Gabrieluss]

Hi Kraig, do you save only the exported videos and delete all the clips you have recorded on a trail? Am also doing travel vlogs and keeping all the clips which is becoming a bit crazy after almost three years of filming:) Best of luck!

[@kraigadams]

yeah I delete those clips as soon as I can. I get why people might save them for the future but too much time/work for not enough value