Gifts For Women Who Hike
Gifts for Women Who Love To Hike
Looking for the best gifts for women who hike? I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite trail-tested picks that are essential, comfortable, or just plain fun for both seasoned trekkers and weekend warriors. From a lightweight single-person tent, stove, or water filter to hiking apparel made for women, by women, and a few downtime favorites, these items can make your next adventure smoother or at least more enjoyable.
My hope is that this gift guide can inspire you and perhaps introduce you to a few new independent brands we love and support. I’ve included several options from women-founded outdoor brands like Branwyn, Hikerkind, Seniq, Houdini, and Astrid. Enjoy.
*W = Women-Owned Brand
W Branwyn Merino Intimates- This is #1 on my list, as the Branwyn Essential Bralette & Essential Bikini. I love this set of innerwear, and wear the bralette daily. You can read about my adoration for merino innerwear here! Or you could just take my word for it and buy it for yourself or a loved one.
Nemo Dragonfly OSMO™ Ultralight Backpacking Tent- A solo lightweight tent is an essential piece of equipment for adventures. I have the Big Agnes solo tent, but several of my close friends own this Nemo tent. It’s light, roomy for a 1 person, and almost freestanding.
W Seniq TrailMix Cargo Pant- These pants are lightweight, made of 4-way stretch, and so cute. Made for hiking, but appropriate as a daily uniform. Love.
Sea to Summit Spark Women’s Down Reading online reviews of sleeping bags, the most common sentiment is “I wish I had spent the money on a good sleeping bag years ago.” A sleeping bag can last a lifetime, and this 3-season one has a lifetime guarantee. Spend the money to get a bag that is warm enough and packs down small; it will be your best friend through countless adventures.
W Skwalwen Salve Set - Founded by a Canadian First Nations woman, Skwalwen blends traditional plant wisdom with modern skincare. This salve trio helps nourish skin, ease pain, and calm inflammation, using medicinal botanicals such as hand-harvested devil’s club and nettle and Pá7pawtn (pa-pow-tin), translating to “plant that relieves muscle soreness.” The scents are minimal but very pleasant.
Katadyn BeFree 1.0 Ultralight Collapsible Water Filter Bottle- I have an old Sawyer squeeze filter, but the drip rate is pretty slow and I have to pretty much put it in a headlock to work, making it practical for only one bottle of water. After a bikepacking trip with a friend who had the Katadyn Filter, I’m sold. It easily filled four water bottles efficiently with minimal effort.
W Crazy Creek x Rachel Pohl Collection Crazy Creek signature Hex 2.0 Chair gets a makeover with artist Rachel Pohl. This packable, lightweight, frameless chair is perfect for backpacking, the beach, or any place where finding a comfortable spot to sit (with a backrest!) can be elusive. Pohl is a talented artist with a notable adventurous spirit.
Travel Watercolor Kit - A few years ago, artist Chris McNally ran a plein air workshop and introduced me to watercolor pens. They’re super easy to use and pack, making them perfect for adventures. Now, my family always brings them along, and it’s such a joy to share our creations– messy, imperfect, and completely fun.
W Hikerkind Packable Puffer- This has to be the most stylish puffer on the market. The bafflind and collar truly make this one from the NY-based brand Hikerkind.
Opinel No.08 Stainless Steel Folding Knife- This is a beautifully crafted, everyday multi-purpose knife that will last a lifetime. My adventure buddy, Rie, always brings the most delicious food and snacks camping, and this is part of her kit. I’m partial to the olive wood handle.
W Kinfield Sunglow SPF 35- For long days chasing cold smoke, a reef-safe mineral sunscreen that actually feels good on your skin is non-negotiable. This lightweight, hydrating formula goes on smoothly and adds a subtle tint for a sun-kissed finish, and protects your face all season long.
PocketRocket Deluxe Ultralight Camping and Backpacking Stove Kit- I’m on my second version of this camp stove, after accidentally melting the plastic pot into every pore of the stove. This stove is tiny, reliable, great for cooking small portions 1-2 people.
Gifts for Women Who Hike: A lightweight sleeping bag, Hikerkind Packable Puffer, Skwalwen Salve Gift Set, Crazy Creek x Rachel Pohl frameless chair, an everyday knife by Opinel.
13. W Houdini Women’s Lykan Half Zip- Swedish brand Houdini is known for their sustainable practices, minimalist design, and high quality. This half-zip is made of an innovative knitted fabric for optimal thermal regulation.
14. W Mons Royale Icon Merino Wool Tee- As previously mentioned, I’m a staunch fan of wool for its warmth, moisture-wicking, thermoregulating and anti-microbial properties. A lightweight wool t-shirt (or two) is an essential in any outdoor wardrobe. Mons makes epic ones. I also love the tees from Artilect, though they tend to run a bit fitted.
15. Set of Dice for Farkle- A set of dice are the perfect camp game. They don’t blow away in the wind, they are tiny, and there are endless games. Look up the rules to Farkle, for a classic, easy-to-learn game that will fuel some campsite competition.
16. Snow Peak Collapsible Coffee Drip- Functional, but like everything from Japan-brand Snow Peak, it’s beautifully designed. Make coffee anywhere with this stainless steel pour-over.
17. W Astrid Minna Wool Vest- Featuring a longer silhouette and a warm wool blend, this vest by Swedish brand Astrid is a lovely everyday piece. It’s a bit on the bulky side for backpacking, but perfect for the trailhead or a casual day hike.
Gifts for Outdoorsy Women: An innovative knit fleece by Houdini, a tiny stove, and the wool fleece vest by Astrid.