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Gear to Get You Moving
Here is a list of gear and apparel that I use when I go outside to walk, hike, and backpack. It's all chosen by reading my body's terrain and it's offered to you as a starting point, because what suits my body may differ from yours. It includes items from both the Basics for each type of activity as well as the 10 Essentials to keep you safe (read more about the 10 Essentials here.)
Quick Finds:
Affiliate Links:
Amazon links provided are affiliate links and I've also shared an Outdoor Vitals coupon code. I earn from qualifying purchases to support this blog. All other links go to the brand's web page. Items are currently available as of June 15, 2026 and will be updated regularly.
This hoodie has the most of what I like—a top with thumb holes, lightweight, soft, and no smell—and is my overall favorite. The hood feels ample and I like the boxier shape. Missing a ponytail opening so I'm going to DIY it. Even without it, this is my top pick.
Very lightweight, soft, and no smell. Missing thumb holes and ponytail opening. I must have an extra long neck—it pulls a little bit when I have the hood up. The whole thing runs a bit small. But oh so cool—and not just the color! Here's a discount code just for you (exp. 7/9/26).
Wearing a shirt with a hood doesn't mean you need to use the hood—the extra fabric of the hood when it is down covers your neck. Silky, ligthweight sun coverage for all sorts of activities. There's a nice drawstring along the bottom and thumb holes.
My favorite sunscreen. It doesn't leak and won't get in my eyes when I sweat. It's mineral-based but doesn't leave a white shadow all over your face. It's really lightweight to carry and lasts well over 100 miles of hiking.
A nearly perfect sun hoodie, except even thought it is lightweight, it is too warm to wear in the summer months in SoCal. The rest of the year it's my go-to top.
Another issue I have when backpacking for days and not getting a full-fledged shower is my scalp can get irritated. I think this may be an age-related issue, too. I wear this visor because it has no band to create sweat under my hoodie.
Insulation
Extra warm and with a hood, this works for almost all my needs in the California outdoors. I like the small chest zipper pocket especially. Usually I prefer a jacket without a hood (!) but this one is so comfy, I relented.
All purpose warmth. Relatively lightweight to pack at about 10oz, keeps me warm in all kinds of weather. I've been known to wear this instead of a bathrobe on chilly mornings at home!
Tried a handful and this fleece is my favorite because of the cross-hatch design that makes it warm but not too heavy to carry. Plus, it has some wind resistance, too, as well as lighter fabric under arms and at wrists. Plus no stink.
Safety | Medical*
*Gear links provided are for information purposes and do not constitute medical advice. Please read the full disclaimer and consult your medical provider for advice on your specific situation.
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My fave fridge. This handy device makes it possible for me to even get into the backcountry since I have injectible daily medication that has to stay cold. Needs battery and/or solar panels to keep going for days, and it works great! Just a little heavy. Check out the size you need for the medication you carry.
Blister Care
Better Blister Bandages—gel-like patch to put on before that blisters forms.
Better Blister Bandages Ultrasport—same gel-like patch but a little thinner and with flex.
I have used Dr. Fredericks, but lots of folks like Compeed. Both stick better than Bandaid brand.
Tape
KT Tape—for muscle aches and great in small pieces for holding on wayward bandaids. I've tried the off brands but they don't stick as well as the original.
Leukotape P—not stretchy; used for hot spots before blisters start as well as for joint stablization.
Moleskin—I like the military grade because it is a lot thinner than other moleskin but sticks well.
Base Layer
Have a couple of these tops. I've been known to wear them as business casual on occasion I love them so much. They wash well, last well, and feel good next to my skin. I find that they don't itch compared to other brands I've tried.
I tried on a whole bunch of long underwear for a ski trip earlier this year. This by far was the most comfortable due to the design—two seams rather than one. It does not pull up in all the wrong places!
I've tried a bunch of these, too, and the Woolly Bikini Underwear don't bunch, don't pull, and don't ride up. They DO feel great next to my skin and come in fun colors. PS: I did go up a size in order to have the coverage I want when I move. PPS: Best customer service ever!