Imagine this: you’re cresting a ridge, the sun is warming your face, and before you stretches a breathtaking vista of mountain peaks. As you breathe in the crisp, clean air, you feel a surge of gratitude for the natural world. Now, imagine experiencing that joy knowing your gear hasn’t come at the cost of the very environment you cherish. That’s the power of choosing eco-friendly hiking gear.
As a nutritionist and meal prep coach, I’m passionate about helping people live healthier lives. And to me, that extends beyond what we eat to how our choices impact the planet. Choosing sustainable hiking gear is a powerful way to minimize your footprint and protect the trails we love. But with so many brands and buzzwords, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
This guide will equip you with the knowledge and resources you need to find eco-friendly hiking gear options that align with your values and your budget.
Understanding the Impact of Traditional Hiking Gear
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s take a quick look at the problem. Traditional hiking gear production often involves:
- Heavy reliance on fossil fuels: Many outdoor gear materials, like conventional polyester, are derived from petroleum.
- Harmful chemicals: Toxic dyes, waterproofing treatments, and chemical finishes can pollute waterways and harm wildlife.
- Unethical labor practices: Fast fashion principles have seeped into the outdoor industry, leading to unfair wages and unsafe working conditions in some cases.
The good news is, awareness is growing, and more sustainable alternatives are entering the market.
Sustainable Hiking Gear
Key Considerations for Eco-Conscious Hikers
Here are the key factors to keep in mind when searching for eco-friendly hiking gear:
1. Materials: Seeking Out Sustainable Sources
The foundation of any eco-friendly product lies in its materials. Look for these earth-friendly options:
- Recycled Materials: Many companies are now utilizing recycled polyester (rPET), made from post-consumer plastic bottles, to create high-performance fabrics.
- Organic Cotton: Choose organic cotton over conventionally grown cotton, as it eliminates the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers.
- Hemp: Hemp is a highly sustainable fiber that requires minimal water and pesticides to grow, and it’s naturally antimicrobial.
- Tencel/Lyocell: These fibers, derived from sustainably harvested wood pulp, are biodegradable and require less water to produce than cotton.
- Merino Wool: This natural fiber is renewable, biodegradable, and naturally odor-resistant.
2. Durability: Choosing Gear That Lasts
The most sustainable gear is the gear you already own. Opting for durable products will reduce your consumption in the long run.
- Invest in Quality: It might seem counterintuitive, but spending a bit more on well-made gear from reputable brands can save you money and resources in the long run.
- Look for Reinforced Areas: Backpacks, jackets, and pants with reinforced stitching and durable fabrics are designed to withstand wear and tear.
- Read Reviews: Online reviews from fellow hikers can provide valuable insights into the longevity of different products.
3. Certifications: Trustworthy Eco-Labels to Look For
Third-party certifications provide assurance that brands are meeting specific environmental and ethical standards:
- Fair Trade Certified: Ensures fair wages and safe working conditions for workers in the supply chain.
- Bluesign®: Rigorous certification that focuses on reducing the environmental impact of textile production at every stage.
- Global Recycled Standard (GRS): Verifies the recycled content of materials and ensures responsible social and environmental practices throughout the supply chain.
- OEKO-TEX® Standard 100: Tests for harmful substances and ensures textiles are safe for human use.
4. Multi-Functionality: Gear That Does Double Duty
Minimize your impact by choosing gear that can serve multiple purposes:
- Convertible Pants: Pants that zip off into shorts provide versatility for changing weather conditions.
- Layering Systems: Instead of one bulky jacket, opt for layers that you can adjust to regulate your temperature.
- All-in-One Products: Some companies offer products like sleeping bags that can transform into jackets, reducing the need for multiple items.
5. Repair and Repurpose: Extending the Life of Your Gear
Don’t toss it, fix it! Embracing a repair-minded approach can significantly reduce your environmental footprint.
- Learn Basic Repair Skills: Simple repairs like patching holes or replacing zippers can be done at home with a little practice.
- Support Brands with Repair Programs: Many outdoor brands offer repair services, extending the lifespan of your gear.
- Get Creative with Repurposing: Old sleeping bags can become dog beds, and worn-out t-shirts make excellent cleaning rags.
Where to Find Eco-Friendly Hiking Gear
Now that you know what to look for, here’s where to find brands that prioritize sustainability:
- Patagonia: Known for its commitment to environmental activism and social responsibility, Patagonia offers a wide range of durable, ethically made gear.
- REI Co-op: This outdoor retail giant has a strong commitment to sustainability, offering a curated selection of eco-friendly gear and supporting organizations that protect wild spaces.
- prAna: With a focus on fair trade practices and sustainable materials, prAna offers stylish and functional clothing for hiking and everyday adventures.
- Cotopaxi: This brand is known for its vibrant colors and commitment to using repurposed fabrics and ethical manufacturing.
- Econscious: As a certified B Corporation, Econscious specializes in organic and recycled apparel and accessories.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to contact brands directly and ask about their sustainability practices.
Making Informed Choices: Your Purchase Matters
Every purchase you make is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in. By choosing eco-friendly hiking gear, you’re:
- Reducing your environmental impact: Minimizing your contribution to pollution, waste, and resource depletion.
- Supporting ethical companies: Voting with your wallet for brands that prioritize fair labor practices and environmental stewardship.
- Inspiring others to do the same: Setting a positive example and encouraging fellow outdoor enthusiasts to make conscious choices.
Eco-Conscious Hiker
Bestseller No. 1
TiTo Titanium Long Handle Spork and Spoon Eco-Friendly Ultralight Portabale Flatware for Outdoor Camping Backpacking Hiking Travel Picnic Tableware with Bag (2Pcs Sandblasting)
- 【Lightweight And Portable】Spork Size is 220*40*40mm/ 7.8*1.6*1.6in. Only 16g/0.57oz each. With 1 Quick-drying bag, portable carrying and easy to store.
- 【Extended Long Handle】Long handle enough to reach/stir the bottom of the dehydrated meals/Mountain House meal bag/MRE bags,or other deep cook pots, deep containers without getting your fingers dirty or burned.
Bestseller No. 2
Combat Wipes ACTIVE Outdoor Wet Wipes - Extra Thick Camping Gear, Biodegradable, Body & Hand Cleansing/Refreshing Cloths for Backpacking & Gym w/Natural Aloe & Vitamin E (25 Wipes)
- DESIGNED WITH BATTLE-FIELD EXPERIENCE: Stay fresh & clean while on your adventures with outdoor wet wipes developed by elite military soldiers. Unlike regular wet cleaning wipes that easily tear and never give you a clean feel, COMBAT WIPES ACTIVE are extra thick, conveniently large (7.1” x 8.3”), have a unique textured cloth design for a thorough wipe, and are extensively lab-tested for a superior clean.
- 100% BIODEGRADABLE WIPES, GREAT CAMPING GEAR AND BACKPACKING GEAR ESSENTIALS: No more carrying dirty moist towelettes around. These Eco-friendly outdoor cleaning wipes are 100% biodegradable and have no synthetic materials. Just bury the biodegradable wet wipes in the soil or compost to dispose them completely guilt-free. All Combat Wipes are considered vegan, and do not contain any animal products or byproducts
Bestseller No. 3
Atomic Bear Paracord Bracelet (2 Pack) - Adjustable - Fire Starter - Loud Whistle - Perfect for Hiking, Camping, Fishing and Hunting - Black & Black+Orange
- BE PREPARED FOR THE WILD - 4 camping gear must-haves in just one bracelet with the fire starter (striker and ferro rod), compass, loud emergency whistle, and 12 feet of military-grade paracord
- SET UP CAMP WHEN IT HITS THE FAN - Sever some small branches with the paracord rope for firewood, set your tinder and kindling ablaze with the firestarter, and tie down your cover with these paracord bracelets
Bestseller No. 4
CIRCE CARE Pee Cloth: Silver Infused Pee rag for Women who Pee Outdoors, Reusable Absorbent Wipes, Ecofriendly alt. to Toilet Paper, Female Urination Solution for Camping, Hiking (1pc BlueDisco)
- ☘BE KIND TO THE ENVIRONMENT ON YOUR HIKING ADVENTURES: No more unpleasant wetness, odors and UTI that come from drip-drying after peeing outdoors! Our environment friendly pee cloth is small, travel size, discreet and easy to carry. Avoid carrying around and disposing rolls of toilet paper or wet wipes in hiking or camping areas. Practice leave no trace principles.
- ☘IDEAL DURING THESE TIMES: Avoid using shared TP in public toilets. These paper towel alternates are ideal for road trips, flights and even at home. These soft pee rags are reusable, washable, unscented and durable. Saves money and environment by reducing toilet paper use. Better than “flushable wipes” which eventually clog drains.
SaleBestseller No. 5
FE Active Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack - 20L Eco Friendly Hiking Backpack. Ideal for Camping Accessories & Fishing Gear. Great Travel Bag, Beach Bag for Kayak & Boating | Designed in California, USA
- DESIGN: The Huntington is made of environmentally safe PVC tested and certified. Bungee cords to hold tackle box, fly fishing gear, yoga mat, camping supplies and outdoors survival kits. Complimentary carabiner attached to increase utility. Roll top waterproof design makes for great extra large safe storage for gadgets like cell phone, camera equipment, clothes, and money. Chest strap keeps pack securely on while on a motorcycle, bike, sea doo, jet ski, snorkeling, or skateboarding
- CONSTRUCTION: Dry bag made of thick marine grade 5mm eco friendly Vinyl Tarpaulin with high frequency welded stitching made to withstand extreme outdoor activities. A must have for your emergency kit. Perfect dive bag where conditions are very wet. This 20L dry bag backpack includes padded shoulder straps with mesh lining for better air flow and built-in padded back support for more comfort. Includes exterior zipper mesh pocket to safely hold keys, sun glasses, and other items
SaleBestseller No. 6
FE Active Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack - 30L Eco Friendly Bag for Men & Women for Fishing, Travel, Hiking, Beach & Survival Gear. Storage for Camera & Camping Accessories | Designed in California, USA
- DESIGN: Environmentally safe PVC tested and certified. Bungee cords to hold tackle box, fly fishing gear, yoga mat, camping supplies and outdoors survival kits. Straps increase utility to hold climbing shoes or wet bathing suit. Roll top waterproof design makes for great extra large safe storage for gadgets like cell phone, camera equipment, clothes, gifts and money. Chest strap keeps pack securely on while on a motorcycle, bike, sea doo, jet ski, and snorkeling
- CONSTRUCTION: Dry bag made of thick marine grade 5mm eco friendly Vinyl Tarpaulin with high frequency welded stitching made to withstand extreme outdoor activities. Its IPX8 rating makes this submersible ideal for scuba diving as a dive bag This 30L dry bag backpack includes padded shoulder straps with mesh lining for better air flow as well as a built-in padded support for your back for greater comfort and an excellent addition to your hiking gear and camping equipment
SaleBestseller No. 7
Lavley Funny Socks for Outdoor Activities Lovers and More - Novelty Gifts for Men, Women, and Teens (US, Alpha, One Size, Regular, Regular, Hike More)
- EMBRACE YOUR ADVENTUROUS SPIRIT: Show off your love for the great outdoors with our 'Hike More Worry Less' socks, perfect for any hiking enthusiast or nature lover.
- A COLORFUL NOD TO COLORADO: Featuring a vibrant, hand-drawn design inspired by our Colorado roots, these socks add a touch of creativity and fun to your hiking gear.
Bestseller No. 8
ReferenceReady Outdoor Knots - Waterproof Knot Tying Cards with Mini Carabiner - Includes 22 Rope Knots for Camping, Backpacking, & Scouting Scenarios
- Knot cards with step-by-step, color-coded knot tying diagrams designed to be easy to follow, including descriptions and usage tips
- Includes mini carabiner for clipping your knot cards to your pack or bug-out bag
SaleBestseller No. 9
Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Towel - Camping Accessories, Quick Dry Microfiber Towel for Travel, Hiking, Yoga, Workout, and Backpacking, Grey
- Multipurpose: Whether you're backpacking through the mountains or going to yoga class, our quick dry towels for camping will keep you fresh and clean when you need them the most.
- Compact: Lightweight and convenient, our camp towel packs down super small into the included carrying bag and makes the perfect companion for your daily adventures. Our 2 pack towels include one full size towel and a wash cloth.
SaleBestseller No. 10
I GO 85 Pieces Hard Shell Mini Compact First Aid Kit, Small Personal Emergency Survival Kit for Travel Hiking Camping Backpacking Hunting Marine Car, Red
- 【Essential Preparedness Kit】: Contains 85 essential first aid supplies for treating common cuts, scrapes, minor aches and injuries, will prepare you for any potential emergency at home, in the office or on the go
- 【Safety Medical Kit】: Safety approved, 85 pieces of comprehensive first aid treatment products are manufactured in modern safety approved facilities, exceeding safety standards for adults and kids in all kinds of emergencies
Conclusion: Hike Lightly, Tread Gently
Choosing eco-friendly hiking gear isn’t about being perfect; it’s about making conscious decisions that align with your values. Every step towards sustainability, no matter how small, makes a difference. By prioritizing durable, ethically made gear and supporting brands that share your commitment to the planet, you can enjoy the trails you love while protecting them for generations to come.
Do you have any favorite eco-friendly hiking gear brands or tips? Share them in the comments below!
