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Buying guide

Best Trekking Gear

Good trekking gear is mostly about three things: feet, weather and light. Get the shoes right, stay dry and warm in layers, and carry a headlamp — most other gear can be rented from your trek operator.

What to look for

Trekking shoes with grip and ankle support
Deep lugs grip scree, mud and snow; a mid or high cut supports ankles under a load. Break them in over a few weeks before the trek.
A waterproof, breathable shell
A jacket that keeps rain and wind out is the most important layer. Look for taped seams and a hood that fits over a cap.
Trekking poles
Poles take load off your knees on descents and help balance on streams and snow. Collapsible aluminium poles are durable and affordable.
A headlamp
Hands-free light for summit pushes that start before dawn, camp at night and power cuts. Carry spare batteries or a USB-rechargeable model.
Warm, packable layers
A fleece and a down or synthetic insulated jacket keep you warm at camp. Synthetic insulation copes better with damp weather.

Recommended options

Picked to match the buying advice above. Check each listing’s size, specs and current price before you buy.

Comparison

Best Trekking Gear compared
OptionRoleBudgetWeightBest for
Boldfit High-Neck Anti-Skid Trekking ShoesBest overallSee listing—Himalayan treks, Snow and scree, Monsoon treks
Optifit 53-inch Retractable Aluminium Walking StickBest budget, Best for long tripsSee listing—Long descents, Snow treks, Stream crossings
Pick Ur Needs Rechargeable LED HeadlampBest compact optionSee listing—Summit days, Camping, Power cuts
Venzina Lightweight Waterproof Packable Rain Jacket—See listing—Monsoon treks, Windy ridges, All seasons
Tripole Boreal Winter and Snow Jacket—See listing—High-altitude treks, Winter treks, Ladakh
MOUNTCRAFT Waterproof Snow Gaiters—See listing—Snow treks, Monsoon treks, Western Ghats

Also worth considering

Best for different trips

  • Best overallBoldfit High-Neck Anti-Skid Trekking Shoes — himalayan treks, snow and scree, monsoon treks
  • Best budgetOptifit 53-inch Retractable Aluminium Walking Stick — long descents, snow treks, stream crossings
  • Best compact optionPick Ur Needs Rechargeable LED Headlamp — summit days, camping, power cuts

Buying considerations

  • Many Indian trek operators include tents, sleeping bags and mattresses — check before buying your own.
  • Rent expensive items (sleeping bags, down jackets, microspikes) for a first trek; buy once you know you’ll trek again.
  • Avoid cotton for anything you walk in: it stays wet and cold.
  • Weigh your loaded rucksack; lighter packs are safer at altitude.

Related guides

Frequently asked questions

What trekking gear should I buy for my first trek?

Buy trekking shoes that fit well, a waterproof jacket, a headlamp and good trekking socks. Rent or borrow the rest — poles, sleeping bag and down jacket — until you know you’ll trek regularly.

Are trekking poles really necessary?

Not always, but they reduce strain on knees during long descents and help on snow, scree and stream crossings. Many trekkers carry them on Himalayan treks and stow them on easy sections.

Can I rent trekking gear in India?

Yes. Most major trek operators and gear shops in base towns such as Manali, Dehradun, Leh and Rishikesh rent shoes, jackets, poles and sleeping bags. Check condition and fit before your trek starts.