The Ultralight Gear Guide Wish List for Thru Hikers (2025 Edition)

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We got the bug for backpacking while approaching Mt. Katahdin. The standard approach was inaccessible to larger vehicles in Baxter State Park, so we were forced to ditch our Skoolie (converted school bus), and join the AT. This approach from outside the park to the south meant joining up with the north bound thru-hikers that were finishing their AT bid. It was a match made in heaven, and now we prefer to travel on foot. On that first trek we didn’t have the right gear, but we had the right attitude…

Oh how our gear has evolved!

Long distance trekking demands careful gear selection. Every ounce counts, and going ultralight means striking the perfect balance between weight, comfort, and durability. Whether you’re crossing the Mojave Desert, climbing the Sierra, or tackling Washington’s rugged terrain, this guide highlights the best ultralight backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, stoves, water filters and footwear for 2025. 

1. Best Ultralight Backpack

Atom Packs The Pulse (previously Atom+)

• Weight: ~1 lb

• Capacity: 40L–50L (customizable)

• Why It’s Great: One of the lightest packs available, the Atom+ is ideal for experienced ultralight hikers who have dialed in their base weight. Fully customizable, it lets you add hip belt pockets, frame stays, or a roll-top closure to keep gear dry in wet conditions.

➡ Budget Alternative:

***Naturehike 65L Internal Frame Hiking Backpack

A budget friendly option with higher-capacity (65L) pack that handles heavier food and water loads.

2. Best Shelter for Ultralight Hikers

Zpacks Plex Solo

• Weight: 13.9 oz

• Why It’s Great: This DCF (Dyneema Composite Fabric) tent offers plenty of space at an ultralight weight. Unlike many trekking pole tents, it handles wind well, making it perfect for exposed ridgelines.

***Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL - UltralightBackpacking Tent

• Want a GREAT tent that comes in 1 person, 2 person, 3 person, 4 person, or 5 PERSON? Here is your go to! Ultralight and sized to fit your needs.

➡ Budget Options: 

***LANSHAN Ultralight Tent 3-Season Backpacking Tent

At just 1.74 lbs for the 1 person, and 2.8 lbs for the 2 person, this tent is a great value.

***Wise Owl Outfitters Tarp– At just 18.9 oz, this tarp is an excellent choice for hikers who prefer enough space to prepare food and keep their pack dry. The issue here is spring time mosquitoes… We carry light weight bed netting to attach to the inside of the tarp head.

3. Sleeping System: Best Ultralight Quilt & Sleeping Pad

Enlightened Equipment Enigma Quilt

• Weight: ~19 oz (20°F model)

• Why It’s Great: Quilts are lighter, more versatile, and compress smaller than traditional sleeping bags. The Enigma offers custom warmth options while keeping you cozy during cold Sierra nights.

➡ Budget Option: 

***Teton 20F and 5F Degree Sleeping Bag

• Weight: 2.9 lbs for 6’2” (20°F model). Definitely heavier, but if you’re on a shorter hike this could suit your needs without spending the extra dollars.

***Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT

• Weight: 12.5 oz

• Why It’s Great: This ultralight inflatable sleeping pad combines comfort, warmth, and packability. The 2025 update has reduced the infamous “crinkly” noise, making it quieter for a better night’s sleep.

➡ Pro Tip: Save weight by getting the short version and using your backpack under your legs.

4. Best Water Filtration System for Thru-Hikers

***Sawyer Squeeze

• Weight: 3 oz

• Why It’s Great: This filter is reliable, easy to use, and doesn’t require pumping. It’s been a thru-hiker favorite for years, handling everything from desert cattle troughs to glacial runoff.

***Cnoc Outdoors 28mm VectoX Durable Water Container

• Weight: 2.6 oz

• Why It’s Great: Works perfectly with the Sawyer Squeeze, making it easier to collect water from shallow streams or trickling sources.

➡ Pro Tip: Keep one bottle labeled “dirty” to avoid cross-contamination.

5. Best Cooking System for Ultralight Backpacking

***Jetboil Stash

• Weight: 7.1 oz

• Why It’s Great: This compact stove is fuel-efficient and boils water in seconds, making it perfect for freeze-dried meals or instant coffee.

➡ Budget & Backup Option: ***BRS Outdoor BRS-3000T Ultra-Light Titanium– Weighing under 1 oz, this tiny titanium stove is ideal for hikers who mostly cold-soak but want an emergency hot meal option.

Choosing the right footwear for a thru-hike is crucial for comfort, performance, and overall success on the trail. Whether you’re tackling the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, or any other long-distance hike, your shoes or boots will be your closest ally. In this guide, we compare the best thru-hiker backpacking footwear for 2025, taking into consideration durability, support, weight, and traction. 

Key Considerations for Selecting Backpacking Footwear

Before diving into specific models, it’s important to understand what makes a great hiking shoe or boot for thru-hiking:

• Comfort and Fit: A good fit prevents blisters and hotspots. Look for shoes or boots that offer ample room in the toe box and a snug fit around the heel.

• Weight: Weight is an essential factor for long-distance hikers. Lighter footwear reduces fatigue but should still offer necessary support.

• Durability: Since you’ll be covering hundreds or even thousands of miles, durability is key. Look for footwear with high-quality construction and materials that can withstand rough terrains.

• Traction: The right tread pattern ensures that your footwear provides the grip needed for rocky, muddy, or slippery conditions.

• Water Resistance: While breathable footwear is great for dry conditions, waterproof models are better suited for wet, muddy trails.

Best Thru-Hiker Backpacking Footwear for 2025

Here are the best hiking shoes and boots to consider for your 2025 thru-hike:

1. ***Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Men's Hiking Shoes / Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Hiking Shoe - Women's

Why It’s Great: The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is a top contender for 2025 with its lightweight design and excellent support. Featuring the Gore-Tex waterproof lining, it keeps your feet dry in wet conditions without compromising breathability. The mid-height provides ankle support while maintaining flexibility, making it ideal for varied terrains.

Key Features:

• Gore-Tex waterproof membrane

• Advanced Chassis for stability and comfort

• Contragrip MA outsole for superior traction

• Quicklace system for easy adjustments

Best For: Those looking for a balance of weight, durability, and waterproofing.

2. ***La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boot - Men's / La Sportiva Womens Nucleo High II GTX Waterproof Hiking Boot

Why It’s Great: La Sportiva is known for creating durable and performance-oriented footwear, and the Nucleo High GTX is no exception. These boots are designed to handle long miles with ease, featuring a lightweight build and the Gore-Tex Surround technology for increased breathability. The Vibram outsoles ensure excellent traction even in muddy or rocky conditions.

Key Features:

• Gore-Tex Surround for optimal breathability

• Vibram Nano outsoles for excellent grip

• Lightweight yet supportive

• Ideal for multi-day hikes

Best For: Hikers who need a high-performing boot with great breathability and traction.

3. ***ALTRA Men's Lone Peak 9 Trail Running Shoe / ALTRA Women's Lone Peak 9 Trail Running Shoe

Why It’s Our Favorite: Altra’s Lone Peak 6 is one of the most popular trail running shoes for thru-hikers, thanks to its ultra-comfortable Zero Drop platform and wide toe box. These shoes are perfect for hikers who prefer a lighter, more responsive feel. The mesh upper ensures breathability, while the StoneGuard technology provides protection against rough terrain.

Key Features:

• Zero Drop platform for a natural stride

• FootShape toe box for extra comfort

• MaxTrac outsole for traction

• StoneGuard technology for added protection

Best For: Minimalist hikers or those seeking a lightweight, breathable option.

4. Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Boots

Why It’s Great: Merrell has been a trusted name in hiking footwear for years, and the Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Boots continue to impress. These boots are known for their superior comfort, especially out-of-the-box. The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel adds shock absorption, making long hikes less taxing on the joints.

Key Features:

• Waterproof membrane to keep feet dry

• Vibram outsoles for stability and traction

• Merrell Air Cushion for shock absorption

• Cushioned midsole for added comfort

Best For: Thru-hikers who prioritize comfort and waterproof protection.

5. Hoka One One Speedgoat 5 Trail Running Shoes

Why It’s Great: The Hoka One One Speedgoat 5 is a trail running shoe designed for long-distance comfort, making it a popular choice for thru-hikers. The shoe features a cushioned midsole and aggressive Vibram Megagrip outsoles, ensuring a smooth, comfortable ride across a wide range of terrains. Its lightweight nature makes it great for those who want to move quickly on the trail.

Key Features:

• Vibram Megagrip outsoles for superior traction

• High-cushion midsole for long-distance comfort

• Lightweight design for faster hiking

• Excellent breathability

Best For: Hikers who want a cushioned, lightweight option with excellent traction.

6. Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boots

Why It’s Great: The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boots are rugged and designed for serious hikers. With their durable leather and textile upper, these boots offer excellent protection and comfort. The Gore-Tex lining ensures waterproofing, while the Vibram outsoles provide traction on tough terrain.

Key Features:

• Gore-Tex waterproof membrane

• Vibram outsoles for exceptional grip

• Durable leather and textile upper

• Comfortable for long distances

Best For: Hikers needing a more robust, all-terrain boot.

Where to Buy: Available on Amazon.

7. Columbia Redmond III Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Why It’s Great: For those on a budget but still wanting quality, the Columbia Redmond III Waterproof Hiking Shoes offer excellent value. These shoes are light, comfortable, and durable enough for thru-hiking. They feature a waterproof, breathable membrane to keep your feet dry and a rugged outsole for great traction.

Key Features:

• Waterproof, breathable membrane

• Lightweight construction

• Omni-Grip outsole for traction

• Comfortable midsole for cushioning

Best For: Budget-conscious hikers seeking reliable waterproof footwear.

Where 

Final Thoughts

When choosing your thru-hiker backpacking footwear for 2025, the right fit is essential. Whether you opt for boots like the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX for ankle support or lightweight trail runners like the Altra Lone Peak 6, ensure you test out your shoes or boots before heading out on the trail. Remember to prioritize comfort, durability, and traction as key factors in your decision-making process.

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