by Janice Lynn Mather Serious hikers head to the wilds for adventure, not luxury — but they also know the value of comfortable hiking gear. Before you take on nature, make sure you have essentials like the right backpack and the most comfortable shoes, as well as sleeping bags, tents, and other extras that will enhance, but not burden, your adventure.

Hiking shoes are vital, whether you’re heading off for a few hours on a trail, or exploring nature for several days. If you’re easing into hiking with jaunts of one day or less in smooth, dry terrains, hiking shoes will do you well. They look similar to standard trainers, but reduce the chances of developing blisters, and offer more support. Planning to go hiking in muddier areas, or going on a trek for a few days? Trail hikers will be your choice; they’re more supportive and more waterproof than hiking shoes. Mountain hikers are the strongest style yet; if you will be in a very rocky or snowy area, or if you’ll be hiking for a long period of time, opt for these heavy-duty shoes which will provide maximum support and durability in long-wear situations. Whatever your choice, don’t forget that hiking shoes must be broken in, so buy them well in advance of a trip, especially a longer one, and wear them for everyday outings until your feet are used to them. Hiking socks will complement your hiking shoes. These socks regulate temperature better, cushion high-stress zones like the toes, heels, and ankles, and generally provide more comfort. In the winter, they will ensure that your feet stay warm enough, while in the summer, they help pull moisture away as you sweat, reducing your chances of developing foot fungi or nasty diseases. A comfortable backpack is just important. For serious journeys, forget frameless packs, as their support will be inadequate. Hiking backpacks have either an internal or an external frame. Internal frame packs are pricier, but are gaining popularity because they are built to improve ventilation, provide a better center of gravity, and are all-around more comfortable. However, since they’re more high tech, they can be trickier to work with. You’ll need to know how to pack them to distribute the weight correctly, and they have fewer pockets, which can lower the convenience. External frame packs cost less, and are easier to pack. For shorter trips, many hikers find these backpacks are just fine. Either way, treat your backpack like any piece of hiking apparel—try it on, test it out, and make sure it fits you comfortably. Longer trips will require sleeping bags and tents. Although these won’t impact you as directly all through your hike, they will make the rest segment — essential on long hikes — more comfortable. Tents should be seasonally appropriate. A four-season model will provide more warmth, so if you are in a warmer climate, a three-season tent will help you not to get overheated. You’ll want to make sure your sleeping bag is similarly temperature-appropriate. Check that your sleeping bag is labeled for the temperature you will be hiking in. You can choose from either synthetic or natural down bags. Synthetics will be cozy and comfortable even if they’ve gotten wet, while down is lighter, and often also has a water-repellent outer layer, so getting them wet need not be the end of the world. Although you’ll want sturdy hiking gear that won’t give out mid-trip, there’s no need to go broke prepping for backpacking. Buying second hand tents or backpacks is a great way to cut costs. Since shoes must be shaped to your feet in particular, you may want to seek out bargains on new boots, instead.