Charlotte

We hiked with these framed child carriers to find the ones that stay comfortable over hours, keep a toddler secure, and suit different budgets.

We tested headlamps on night trails to find the ones worth carrying: a 2.4-ounce rechargeable for most hikers, plus brighter picks for big descents.

We tested caps, boonies, and wide-brim sun hats for breathability, coverage, and fit that holds in wind. Here is what to wear on the trail.

We compared wide-brim boonies, bucket hats, neck-flap sun hats and quick-dry caps to find the hiking hat that suits your trail, your pack and your head.

We tested hiking gloves for warmth, grip, breathability, and touchscreen use, from lightweight liners to waterproof winter pairs.

Ten essentials we pack for the trail, from a 45-gram water filter to a ferro rod that works wet, and the trade-offs that decide which you need.

We tested hiking gaiters for snow, mud, scree and brush. What seals over a boot, stays up on the climb, and survives the under-sole strap.

Six hiking fleeces we tested, ranked: the Columbia Steens Mountain Full Zip wins on venting and warmth, with picks for women, layering, and budgets.

A waterproof hard shell, a five-ounce pouch and a group kit that carries real medicine: the hiking first aid kits we recommend and who each one suits.

We tested daypacks from 13 to 40 liters to find the ones that carry water, layers, and lunch comfortably, plus the best packable and budget options.