Summer is when the mountains, trails, lakes, and the bush come alive. Whether you’re looking for gear that makes everyday adventures better, hiking into the alpine, shredding singletrack on your bike, spending the day on the water, or setting up basecamp, having the right equipment can change the entire experience.
The SBC SKIER Summer Gear Guide brings together the best outdoor gear we tested for 2026. From everyday carry items, technical hiking footwear and bike essentials, water gear, to camping equipment, these are the products built to handle everything summer throws your way.
We’ve broken the SBC SKIER Summer Gear Guide into five categories: Everyday Carry, On the Trail, On the Bike, On the Water, and Camping & Basecamp. Every featured product is listed below, but click through to each category page for more in-depth reviews, detailed insights, and our hands-on take on the gear.
Everyday Carry
Some gear doesn’t belong to just one activity. These are the everyday essentials you’ll find yourself reaching for whether you’re hiking, travelling, camping, or exploring your local trails.
Garmin Fenix 8 Smartwatch
A rugged multisport GPS watch packed with tracking features for nearly every outdoor activity.
NOCS Field Issue 10×42 Binoculars
High-quality, durable binoculars deliver impressive optics for wildlife viewing and outdoor exploration.
Fjällräven Abisko Hike Lite 20L Backpack
A lightweight daypack designed for comfortable hiking, travel, and everyday adventures.
Adidas Sport Kentro Sunglasses
Performance sunglasses offering lightweight comfort and protection for active summer days.
Arcade Aero Mag Belt
A comfortable stretch belt that provides a secure fit without limiting movement.
Knog Bandicoot 250 Headlamp
A lightweight, secure-fitting headlamp with multiple modes and a built-in USB charger for running, hiking, and camping.
Finisterre Forecast Windcheater Jacket
A packable wind shell built for everyday adventures
Ocean Bottle Original and Brew
Earth-conscious liquid bottles for both hot and cold drinks.
On the Hiking Trail
Best Hiking & Trail Gear 2026 | SBC SKIER Summer Guide
From technical approaches to long alpine days, hiking gear needs to provide comfort, durability, and confidence on every type of terrain.
SCARPA Rapid XT Approach Shoes
A comfortable approach shoe that combines hiking performance with climbing-inspired grip and precision.
Fjällräven Abisko Hybrid Zip-Off Trousers
Versatile hiking pants that convert into shorts for changing weather and trail conditions.
Fjällräven Keb Agile Tights
Durable, flexible outdoor tights designed for movement and technical adventures.
Salomon XA Pro V9
A lightweight trail shoe offering reliable grip and comfort for hiking and fast-moving adventures.
Salomon Quest 5 GTX / Echo GTX
Supportive hiking boots built for long days on the trail with waterproof protection and stability.
Mammut Ducan HS Hooded Jacket
A lightweight waterproof shell designed to protect against wet and windy weather.
Gregory Alpinisto 50 Backpack
A technical alpine pack built for mountain missions, rock climbing approaches, and demanding backcountry objectives.
On the Bike
Gravel grinds, mountain bike missions, and long days in the saddle all require gear that performs when the terrain gets rough. These bike essentials are designed to keep you comfortable, connected, and ready to ride further.
Batch Bicycles GB.2 Gravel Bike
A versatile gravel bike that blends speed, comfort, and adventure-ready capability for everything from pavement to backroad exploration.
Garmin Edge 850
A powerful cycling computer that tracks performance, navigation, elevation, and ride data to help you get more from every pedal stroke.
POC Kortal Race MIPS Helmet
A premium mountain bike helmet combining advanced impact protection, ventilation, and trail-focused features.
POC Motion Bike Pants
Durable, comfortable riding pants designed for all types of pedalling.
POC Ultra Saddle Bag 7L
A compact but spacious bikepacking-style storage solution for carrying essential gear on longer rides.
High performance mountain biking gloves with maximum protection
Photochromic biking glasses that are comfortable and transition lens tint depending on light conditions
A lightweight mountain bike helmet built for technical trails, with enhanced protection, airflow, and comfort for all-day rides.
On the Water
Whether you’re spending the day at the lake, paddling a river, or relaxing at the beach, these products are built for summer lake life.
Salomon Solamphibian
A hybrid water shoe and hiking shoe that transitions seamlessly between trails, beaches, rivers, and paddle adventures.
Birkenstock Arizona Oiled Leather Sandals
A classic adventure sandal offering comfort, support, and timeless style for summer days.
Basecamp & Overnight
The best adventures don’t end when the sun goes down. From comfortable campsites to remote overnight missions, this gear helps make sleeping outside more comfortable and organized.
The North Face Wawona 3 Tent
A spacious, durable camping tent designed for comfort, spaciousness, and inclusivity for people with disabilities.
Gregory Baltoro 75 / Deva 70 Backpack
A high-capacity backpacking pack built to comfortably carry heavy loads on multi-day adventures.
Gregory Alpaca 25L Gear Box
A rugged storage solution that keeps camping equipment protected, organized, and ready for adventure.
Gregory Gear Pods
Packing-cube-style organizers that make it easy to keep your camping gear sorted inside bags, duffles, and gear boxes.
Yeti Carbon Steel Skillet 12
A durable camp cooking essential designed to bring more convenience to outdoor meals.
A portable cooler solution that keeps food and drinks cold while taking up minimal space.
A classic merino wool layer that delivers breathable warmth and versatile performance for cool days outside.
A lightweight, comfortable camp chair that brings packable convenience without sacrificing support.
Find Your Summer Adventure Gear
Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip, exploring new trails, riding local singletrack, or spending the afternoon at the lake, the right gear helps you get more out of every adventure.
These are the products we’re using, testing, and recommending for Summer 2026. Build your kit, get outside, and make the most of the summer.
