Hiking enthusiasts around the world seek trails that offer not only physical challenges but also breathtaking scenery and unique experiences. From ancient paths winding through historical ruins to towering mountain summits offering unparalleled views, there are numerous trails that capture the essence of adventure.

Here, we present three of the top hiking trails globally:

Inca Trail, Peru

• Distance: 42 kilometers (26 miles)

• Duration: 4 days

• Best Time to Go: April to October (dry season)

• Highlights: Andean scenery, Inca ruins, Machu Picchu​

Appalachian Trail, United States

• Distance: 3,540 kilometers (2,190 miles)

• Duration: 5-7 months (for thru-hike)

• Best Time to Go: Spring and Fall

• Highlights: Diverse landscapes, 14 states, ridge lines, dense forests
  

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

• Distance: Varies by route, approximately 62 kilometers (38.5 miles) for the Marangu Route

• Duration: 7 days

• Best Time to Go: June to October (dry season)

• Highlights: Varied climate zones, summit at 19,300 feet, iconic mountain​

A good hiking backpack is an investment that can make a significant difference in your hiking experience by offering comfort, durability, and practical features.

Sizes and Capacity:

• Daypacks (20-35 liters): Perfect for shorter day trips. They have enough space for water, food, a light jacket, and some small items.

• Mid-sized backpacks (35-50 liters): Ideal for overnight or weekend hikes. They can hold more gear, including a sleeping bag and extra clothes.

• Larger backpacks (50-70+ liters): Designed for longer expeditions and multi-day hikes where more equipment, food, and clothes are needed.

Key Features:

• Back System and Ventilation: Many backpacks have ventilated back panels that allow air to circulate between your back and the backpack, helping keep you cool. Some also have adjustable back systems to fit different body lengths.

• Carrying System: Ergonomic shoulder straps, a hip belt, and a chest strap are essential for evenly distributing the weight and providing comfort during long hikes. A good hip belt takes much of the weight off the shoulders and places it on the hips.

• Hydration Compatibility: Many modern backpacks have space for a hydration bladder and an exit for a drinking tube, making it easier to stay hydrated while hiking.

• Attachment Points and Straps: External straps and attachment points allow you to attach extra gear, such as sleeping pads, tents, or trekking poles, to the outside of the backpack.

• Rain Cover: Some backpacks come with a built-in rain cover that can be pulled over the backpack to keep the contents dry in rainy weather.

Don't miss our shoes from Björn Borg. Perfect for light walks or everyday use. Here you can find our women's shoes. Here you can find our men's shoes.

Low Shoes

• Light Hiking Shoes: Perfect for lighter and shorter hikes on well-maintained trails. They are often comfortable and require minimal break-in time.

• Trailrunners: Often used by fast hikers and those who prefer light packs. They offer good grip and support but are less durable in rough terrain.

Mid-height Shoes

• Hiking Boots: Provide more ankle support and are suitable for longer hikes and more varied terrain. They are sturdier and offer more protection against sprains.

High Boots

• Mountain Boots: Designed for tougher terrain and longer expeditions. They offer maximum support and protection and are often waterproof and highly durable.

Material

• Leather: Very durable and offers good support but can be heavier and requires more break-in time. Treated leather can be water-resistant.

• Synthetic Materials: Lighter and dry faster than leather. Less durable but require less break-in time.

• Gore-Tex: Many hiking shoes have Gore-Tex or similar membranes for waterproofing while allowing the foot to breathe.

Features

• Sole: Vibram soles are popular for their grip and durability. The pattern of the sole (or "lugs") should be deep and well-designed to provide good traction in various types of terrain.

• Support and Cushioning: Good cushioning in the midsole and arch support are important to reduce fatigue and prevent injuries.

• Waterproofing: Waterproof shoes keep feet dry in wet conditions but may be less ventilating. Choose based on the climate and conditions you plan to hike in.

• Lacing System: A good lacing system helps adjust the fit and keep the foot in place, which is important to avoid blisters and injuries.

Hiking pants are an essential part of the gear for anyone who loves hiking and spending time in nature. These tips apply to both women & men's hiking pants.

Material

• Synthetic Materials: Polyester and nylon are common because they are lightweight, durable, and quick-drying. They also wick moisture away from the body.

• Merino Wool: Sometimes used for its natural moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties.

• Softshell: Offers good mobility and protection against wind and light rain, but is not fully waterproof.

Features

• Water Resistance/Waterproofing: Many hiking pants have a durable water repellent (DWR) treatment. For more protection, waterproof overpants can be used.

• Ventilation: Zippers along the sides or thigh vents can help regulate body temperature.

• Pockets: Many pockets for storing maps, compasses, snacks, and other small items.

• Reinforced Areas: Extra fabric on knees and seat for increased durability.

• Convertible Legs: Some pants can be converted into shorts by zipping off the legs, which is practical in varying weather.

Fit and Comfort

• Mobility: The pants should provide good freedom of movement, sometimes through elastic materials or a cut that allows a greater range of motion.

• Adjustability: Waistbands with adjustments for better fit and comfort.

• Weight: Lightweight pants are better for longer hikes to reduce fatigue.

Uses

• Summer Hiking: Lightweight and ventilated pants that breathe well and offer sun protection.

• Winter Hiking: Warmer pants that are often lined and offer more protection against wind and cold.

• Technical Hiking: Pants with high durability and multiple features for tougher terrain and longer expeditions.

If you're looking for training tights for walking or simpler hiking, you'll find them with us at Björn Borg. Here you can find our women's leggings.