The key to a relaxed hike is being as prepared as possible for the unknown, whether it’s a sudden downpour or a twisted ankle. Every hiker should bring the 10 essentials, which include food and drink, first aid supplies, a map and compass and rain gear — all inside a supportive backpack with thick shoulder straps and a waist belt.
But the most essential gear is footwear, because “your feet are literally your foundation.” You don’t need to invest in special hiking shoes, you do need to wear shoes that offer stability, protection and traction, especially if the trail is rocky, steep or potentially muddy.“Most physical injuries on the trail aren’t training errors but the result of being in nature, Good shoes and hiking poles offer extra stability.” (Poles can also help clear snakes near your path.)