Game-Changing Winter Hiking Products That Will Make You Say: "Dang, why don't I have that already!"

Winter hiking can seem daunting but with the right preparation it can offer some of the best views and nature walks without the BUGS! Winter can be a great time to get some fresh air and get in some nature time.   Here is a list of some of our favorite products to help you prepare for winter outdoors.  We hope you love them as much as we do!  Every product picture has a link provided within to help you explore and shop more conveniently! We hope you love the products listed below! Just so you know Hike Hoppers has not personally used all the brands listed below, but have used products similar. Some have been included because of the affordable price and some because we could not find the exact brand that we personally use. Hopefully this list can help you find some good products and do your own research and find the perfect product that works for you!  See you out on the winter trails!  - Matt

​1. Darn Tough Socks

These are the last hiking socks you'll ever have to buy. The company is so sure that you will love them and they won't wear out that if you do by chance get a hole in them you can send your pair into them and they will send you another pair! I'd love to give you details on how that works but my darn tough socks from a year ago are still trucking along. I even wear them as shoes when I have to run out to my car or something quick. These guys are awesome! They keep my feet warm and I trust that they won't wear out! 

2. Sole Survivor Filtered Water bottle

These water bottles make finding water fun. We used this water system while hiking in Utah, Thailand, Korea and Minnesota this year.  Our water bottles have been filled in many canyon rivers, streams and last winter we even filled it up with snow and let it melt in our packs for some ice cold Northern Minnesota shore water! 

3. A Solid Neck Warmer

I used to not be a fan of covering up the ole neck while hiking, but I was proven wrong when I found out about some light weight neck warmers. I barely know that they are there and they keep my neck nice and toasty. Way better then a scarf that flaps around and hangs around getting in the way. Try it out today! 

​4. Snowpants

This may seem obvious, but you'd be surprised at how many adults don't actually have a good pair of pants that can keep them warm while they go out and play in the snow. Come on guys snow is for adults too! I have pair and I wouldn't dream of going out in the snow without them. Thing of all the fort building, snowman building, snowball fighting you're missing out on! I put a pair of mens on the left and women's on the right check'em out! 

5. First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is always a good idea to just put in your pack. Most of the time you won't need it. Mine has been sealed up since I got it over a year ago, but accidents happen and it's a good idea to carry one with you. Especially in the winter, because you'll find that there are not many people out on the trails in the winter. I put the link down for a few options below but don't be afraid to shop around for something that works best for you and your situation. 

6. Thermal Winter Gear

Oh boy if this isn't a must have then I don't know what would be. This shirt and pant combo will help trap body heat in and keep the cold out. These are awesome for hiking, hunting, ice fishing, skiing, and any other winter activity you can think of. Check them out, I put some very affordable ones I found, but you can find some that suit your style and winter needs. 

7. Boot Grips

Boot grips have saved me more times then I can count on an icy trail. These are a life saver...literally. All you have to do is slip these on your hiking boots and they are instantly transformed into winter hiking boots! They are super easy to slip on boots and convenient for when the Minnesota trails have had a bit of an ice over!  

​8. A Solid Gloves and Hat

​These might seem obvious but there is nothing worse when your on the trail and your fingers start to go numb or your hat isn't keeping you head warm. I put an option for each but these are something that you might need to do a little shopping around and find some that work best for you! However I cannot stress enough how important this is. One thing that can cut a good winter him short then having to go back because you can't feel your hands!