Hiking usually brings to mind sturdy boots, backpacks, and water bottles, but there’s a whole world of weird outdoor gear that surprises even experienced hikers. From glow-in-the-dark toilet paper to fanny packs shaped like beer bellies, some of the items made for trails are hard to believe until you see them. Weird hiking gear can actually make time outdoors more comfortable, convenient, or just a lot more fun.
Unique Weird Hiking Gear to Try
Hikers today can try out gear that goes well beyond the traditional boots and packs. Some of these items focus on comfort, while others simply add convenience or a touch of fun to the trail.
1. Bizarre Footwear for the Trail
Some hikers are skipping heavy leather boots for unconventional trail shoes. For example, barefoot shoes—like Vibram FiveFingers—have thin, flexible soles and individual toes, giving wearers the sensation of walking barefoot. This appeals to hikers who value ground feel, but it’s not for everyone, especially on rocky paths.
Another odd option is waterproof socks, which keep feet dry when crossing streams but feel very different from regular pairs. Trail runners with odd lacing patterns or shoes that double as camp slippers also make the list. Toe socks—which fit over each toe individually—help prevent blisters for some, though others find them strange or uncomfortable.
2. Unusual Backpacks and Carriers
Unconventional backpacks can provide features mainstream packs often lack. Suspended mesh backs create an air gap to reduce sweating, while modular packs—such as those with detachable compartments—let hikers customize storage for every trip.
Some hikers experiment with frameless ultralight packs, which save weight but offer less structure and padding. There are also camp cupboard packs with built-in organizers, transforming into mini storage units at camp, and packs with solar panels to charge devices on the go. Animal-shaped, novelty packs are less about practicality and more about bringing a sense of humor to the trail.
Noteworthy examples:
- Modular packs with detachable bags
- Solar-powered backpacks
3. Out-of-the-Box Trekking Poles
Trekking poles have evolved from simple sticks into gear with wild design options. Foldable poles collapse down to fit inside a daypack, ideal for those who want to stow poles quickly when climbing or scrambling. Carbon fiber poles are extremely light, and surprisingly strong at the same time.
Some poles double as tent poles or feature built-in camera mounts for snapping trail photos. A few even come with integrated flashlights, making night hiking easier. The rarest are adjustable poles that can convert into a monopod, which is useful for photographers needing a steady shot in the wilderness.
| Trekking Pole Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Foldable design | Pack down easily |
| Camera mount attachment | Take photos and videos |
| Flashlight integration | Illuminates night trails |
| Convertible to tent support | Dual function for campers |
How Weird Hiking Gear Improves the Adventure
Odd gear choices may look strange at first, but sometimes they end up being surprisingly useful out on the trail. Plus, using unconventional items can lead to new discoveries, great stories, and more memorable hikes.
4. Unexpected Convenience and Comfort (for the Ladies)
Many hikers overlook how much small, quirky gear can make a difference. Ultra-light pee rags are a life saver out in the back country. There’s also the pee pants that allow women to pee without exposing themselves. These towels are lightweight and pack down small.
A bladder hose magnet might seem unnecessary, but it secures the drinking tube right where it’s needed. There’s no more reaching around blindly or letting the hose dangle. For rain, packable jackets made from unusual materials keep hikers dry without the usual bulk.
5. Weird Gear Builds Friendships
Bringing weird gear often leads to friendly exchanges with others on the trail. A bright-patterned rain jacket, creative hiking poles, or even a full-sized thesaurus in someone’s pack is hard to ignore. People are naturally curious and will ask questions about unfamiliar gear choices.
Some hikers enjoy starting conversations with items like unique water bottles or custom trail snacks presented in reusable food wraps. Laughter and curiosity help break the ice, especially for those hiking solo or with new friends.
Below is a simple example of gear types that usually prompt questions:
| Gear Item | Typical Reaction |
|---|---|
| Hiking umbrella | “Does that actually work?” |
| Cooling towel | “Where did you get that?” |
| Thesaurus in backpack | “Why are you carrying this?” |
Trying Out the Latest Hiking Innovations
Some of the weirdest gear was recently considered experimental. Today, innovations like trail runners with unusual foot support, foldable stoves, or multi-purpose magnets make hiking smoother.
New gear designs push the limits of lightweight materials and multi-function gadgets. Hikers trying out these items can discover real improvements, from faster water filtration to more flexible weather protection. The first time using a hiking umbrella or a modular pack, skeptics may become fans.
Testing these new products is not just about novelty. Many hikers find that what started as a “weird” purchase becomes part of their must-pack list for future adventures.