Illustration by Photo Illustration by The Globe and Mail
Over the past year, I’ve noticed a trend in my single friends: They are ditching dinner and drinks as a first-date plan, and instead inviting their love interests to hike with them. Hiking has become Canada’s most popular outdoor activity shortly since the pandemic. In 2021, 85 per cent of Canadians explored trails, and now, eight million of us hike regularly.
Heading into the outdoors? Here’s why you should get a guide
As our population steadily becomes more active, the hiking trails across Canada from coast to coast are bound to be the backdrop for countless new adventures, but also a plethora of rookie trail mistakes. I am no exception: One of my first hikes, through the Aran Islands, off the coast of Ireland, was riddled with avoidable mishaps. I packed too heavily, wore not-so-waterproof pants, neglected my navigation and almost missed the boat back to the mainland.
That’s where I learned that a good hike begins with proper gear, and we now have a wealth of specialized backpacks, jackets, pants and watches to choose from. There are the pricey but top-grade garments from Arc’teryx and Patagonia; the rugged and traditionalist pieces from Merrell and Salomon; and then innovative options such as Paka hiking coats insulated with Alpaca fur, or jackets and pants from New Zealand-based discounted retailer Kathmandu that began selling in Canada last year.
Rules for responsible hiking from professional hiker and author Nicola Ross
The growing list of gear options complicates the shopping process, but when selecting hiking attire, it’s more important to follow a few solid guidelines than to find the perfect garments.
One, choose a layered wardrobe to prepare you for any type of weather; two, pick clothes that are breathable, and water- and wind-resistant (bonus points if a piece has Gore-Tex in the name; it signals a highly resistant fabric); and three, become an expert packer. Clothes that fold, and a backpack that is deep, light and malleable, will serve you well. Keeping these principles in mind, here is a roundup of hiking gear that best mixes quality, affordability and comfort, and that will meet your needs on the trail.
Jacket: Arc’teryx Gamma Hoody ($360)
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Stretchable, sturdy and priced for its performance features, the Gamma jacket by Arc’teryx has become classic hiking attire. Outdoor enthusiasts praise it for its breathable and flexible shell. For those who prefer to hike in style and in near-zero temperatures, there is the Canada Goose Rosedale jacket ($650), with a sporty but cozy cotton and polyester blend, and a tricot chin guard for extra warmth.
Backpack: Mountain Hardwear Gnarwhal backpack ($220)
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The Gnarwhal is thoughtfully designed for space and separation; its hidden pockets are a hit with detail-oriented travellers who require isolated side pouches for liquids or gels, and velvety protected pockets for personal items such as keys, a wallet and a cellphone.
Pants: On Trek pants ($180)
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The On Trek pants are endlessly functional: They have zippered pockets to store valuables, an adjustable waist for maximum comfort and are made with stretchy polyester that allows for a full range of motion. Best of all, their muted colour pattern makes them fit into any outfit.
Running Shoes: Hoka Speedgoat 6 ($190)
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The Speedgoat 6, with a rugged grip wrapped around a light and bouncy midsole, is an early crowd favourite for fast hikers and mountain runners. Even with the extra treads, it only weighs in at 9.8 ounces, so your need for speed won’t get compromised.
Hiking boots: Merrell Rogue Hiker Mid Gore-Tex ($330)
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Bolstered with a responsive and grippy Vibram outsole, and a water- and wind-proof Gore-Tex upper, the Rogue Hikers are the most durable boots at their price point, and can last even experienced hikers several years. For newbies, the waterproof and endlessly grippy North Face Hedgehog 3 boots, priced at $200, do the trick for less money.
Watch: Polar Grit X2 Pro ($1,100)
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Pricey, yes, but the Polar Grit X2 Pro could navigate you out of a snowstorm in the Arctic. Its GPS functions include an altitude meter, elevation profiles, turn-by-turn directions and a backtrack function that prevents wearers from getting lost. For those who want to save a bit of cash: The Suunto Vertical is a close second with its robust battery life and offline navigation setting that comes in handy off the grid, and often goes on sale for less than $900. For beginners, the Garmin Forerunner 165 ($340) is a fine option that beautifully covers the basics such as pace, time, distance and orientation.
Coffee: Melitta Signature Pour-Over coffee maker ($30)
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For those multiple-day hikes where caffeine is a must, this compact, porcelain pour-over cup comes in handy (as long as you have access to boiling water.)