Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!

Swissproof Hiking, Outdoor Adventure & Running Essentials: Gear I Actually Pack and Use

Person Mountain Biking emoji 55 items
Raised in Switzerland, always on a trail. These are some of my favourite curated pieces to from running to hiking gear, alpine-ready outfits, and everything I actually pack for outdoor adventures, from day hikes to multi-day escapes. Adventure is a l...
Sections
5
 
 
 
 
 

Hiking Backpacks

The best hiking backpacks for women, from lightweight daypacks to rugged multi-day options. Curated picks for comfort, durability, and trail-ready style. 

 
selma profile picture
Lightweight, comfortable, and perfect for day hikes. Plenty of room for your essentials without feeling bulky on the trail. A lightweight, streamlined backpack designed for day hikes, travel, and everyday outdoor use. Its 30L capacity offers plenty o...
Blackcomb Ridge 30L Backpack | Columbia
 
selma profile picture
This rugged backpack offers plenty of space and durability for everyday use, travel, and outdoor adventures. I recommend it because the Base Camp-inspired construction is built to handle heavy use while keeping gear organized and protected. Perfect f...
Hot Shot Base Camp™ Backpack 27.5L | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
This ultralight technical backpack is built for climbers and mountain athletes who need maximum durability with minimal weight. I recommend it because it delivers exceptional performance in demanding alpine environments while keeping your gear secure...
Alpha SL 30 Backpack | Arc'teryx
 
selma profile picture
This lightweight daypack offers just the right amount of storage for hikes, trail runs, and everyday outdoor adventures without feeling bulky. I recommend it because it combines comfort, durability, and a streamlined design that keeps essentials orga...
Borealis Trail 16 Backpack 26L | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
This versatile daypack offers comfortable carrying, practical organization, and enough space for daily essentials whether you're heading outdoors or around town. I recommend it because it combines everyday functionality with the durability and comfor...
The North Face Jester 22L - Daypack Women's
 
selma profile picture
This lightweight hiking backpack offers excellent comfort, smart organization, and enough capacity for full-day adventures on the trail. I recommend it because Mammut consistently delivers reliable outdoor gear, and the Lithium 25 strikes a great bal...
Mammut Lithium 25L - Walking Backpack Women's
 
selma profile picture
This spacious trekking backpack is designed to carry heavier loads comfortably on multi-day adventures and long-distance hikes. I recommend it because it combines excellent carrying comfort, durable construction, and thoughtful storage for extended t...
Mammut Lithium 50L
 
selma profile picture
This is the kind of bag I'd grab when I don't want to carry a full backpack but still need my essentials with me. I like that it keeps things simple, just enough space for the things I actually use without feeling bulky or getting in the way. I'd wea...
Borealis Sling | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
A serious pack for serious trails. 50L of structured, lightweight carrying capacity built for multi-day alpine missions, the kind of bag that keeps up no matter how ambitious the route.
Phantom 50 Backpack | The North Face

Hiking, Trail & Running Shoes

Shoes that keep up. Curated picks for hiking, trail running, and outdoor adventure, tested on actual trails.

 
selma profile picture
These hiking shoes are a great option for anyone who wants the stability of a hiking shoe without the bulk of a boot. I recommend them because they feel lightweight and agile while still providing the grip and support I look for on varied terrain. Pe...
Trail: X ULTRA 360 EDGE Hiking & backpacking shoes | Salomon
placeholder
 
selma profile picture
I like these because they feel lightweight and cushioned without sacrificing stability on uneven terrain. They're the kind of shoe I'd reach for when a day includes a mix of pavement, trails, and lots of miles on my feet. Perfect for trail running, h...
Trail: Women’s Altamesa 500 V2 Shoes | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
These are the kind of hiking boots I appreciate for their balance of comfort, support, and weather protection on the trail. I recommend them because they provide extra ankle support without feeling overly heavy, making long hiking days more enjoyable...
Trail: X ULTRA 5 MID GORE-TEX Hiking & backpacking shoes - Women | Salomon
 
selma profile picture
They combine waterproof protection, reliable traction, and sneaker-like comfort, making them a great choice for hiking, sightseeing, and wet-weather walks without the bulk of traditional hiking boots.
Trail: Women's Transverse Hike Low WP Shoe | Columbia
 
selma profile picture
One of the most comfortable road running shoes available. The exceptional cushioning makes it ideal for long runs, walking, travel, and anyone who prioritizes comfort over speed. Your legs and feet will thank you after long days on the move.
Road: Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 - Running shoes Women's
 
selma profile picture
These running shoes are designed for comfortable everyday miles with a lightweight, responsive feel. I like them because they look fun, feel energetic, and seem like the kind of shoe that makes you want to head out for a run, even on days when motiva...
Road: AERO BLAZE 3 running shoes - Women | Salomon
 
selma profile picture
Perfect for trail runners, fast hikers, and active travelers who want the comfort of a running shoe with the traction and stability needed for outdoor adventures. The plush cushioning makes long days on your feet feel easier.
Trail: Women's Konos Elevate Shoe for Trailrunning

Hiking, Trail and Running Outfits

functional and cute

 
selma profile picture
This waterproof shell is designed to keep you comfortable when the weather turns unpredictable. I like it because it has that classic mountain-jacket look while still feeling practical enough for everyday outdoor adventures. Perfect for hiking, trave...
Women’s DRYVENT™ Mono Mountain Jacket | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
Lightweight sport sunglasses with mirrored lenses, comfortable fit, and reliable eye protection for hiking, running, cycling, and outdoor adventures.
Rio Mirror Polarized S3 - Sunglasses - CHPO
placeholder
 
selma profile picture
This is the kind of jacket I'd keep by the door all winter because it works for so many everyday situations. I like that it adds warmth without feeling overly bulky, and the hood makes it easy to throw on when the weather suddenly turns cold. I'd wea...
Women’s Aconcagua 3 Hoodie | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
Merino wool keeps you warm without overheating, stays fresh even after multiple wears, and layers perfectly under a windbreaker for a lightweight, weather-ready outdoor setup. I like to wear it underneath my windbreaker
Merino Fleece335 Jacket
 
selma profile picture
lovely for longer trail runs: lightweight hydration vest designed for trail runners who want easy access to water, nutrition, and essentials without slowing down. The close-fitting design minimizes bounce while running, and the breathable mesh constr...
Trail Running Vest
 
selma profile picture
A good sun hat is one of those things I never think about until I'm out on an exposed trail wishing I'd packed one. This one comes along on long hikes, hot days, and anywhere I know I'll be spending hours outside.
Horizon Breeze Brimmer Hat | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
The jacket that goes with everything and keeps up with anything. Lightweight enough to stuff in your bag, windproof enough for exposed ridges.
The North Face Women's TNF Cyclone Wind Jacket
 
selma profile picture
A versatile staple that works just as well on the trail as it does for travel or workouts. Comfortable, flattering, and easy to layer under jackets or with a running vest for an active outdoor outfit.⠀
Women's Loneridge Leggings | Columbia
 
selma profile picture
I like having one pair of hiking pants that works for almost everything, and these fit that role really well. Easy to move in, practical, and simple to throw on for a day outside.
Women’s Exploration Cargo Pants | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
Lightweight stretch hiking pants with zip-off legs, quick-drying fabric, and a comfortable fit for hiking, trekking, and travel in changing weather.
Stretch Pants II - Walking trousers, Women's EvergreenHe.
 
selma profile picture
I love having a skort like this for summer because it looks a little more put together than regular running shorts while still feeling practical for being active. I'd wear it for walks, easy hikes, travel days, or anytime I want to be comfortable wit...
Women’s Sunriser Skort | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
I always end up carrying a lightweight layer like this. Perfect for cool starts, breezy ridgelines, or coffee before a sunrise hike.
SENSE AERO HYBRID Women’s Half Zip Midlayer | Salomon
 
selma profile picture
Perfect for crisp mornings, dog walks, coffee runs, and those days where you know you'll be taking layers on and off. I always find a use for a vest like this.
Women’s Hydrenalite™ Down A-Line Vest | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
If I'm packing light, there's usually a pair of leggings like this in my bag. They're comfortable, easy to style, and useful for everything from morning hikes to long flights.
Women’s Jaida Pocket Leggings—27'' | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
Cold hands can ruin an otherwise great hike. I always like having a simple pair of gloves packed when temperatures start dropping.
CROSS WARM Unisex Gloves | Salomon
placeholder
 
selma profile picture
I love having my hands free and my pockets empty when I'm moving. A running belt like this makes that so easy.
HIGH PULSE Unisex Belt | Salomon

Sleep & Shelter

Tents, sleeping bags, and sleep systems I'd trust after a long day on the trail.

 
selma profile picture
I like gear that can adapt to different conditions, and that's what makes this sleeping bag interesting to me. Being able to adjust it for different temperatures means less gear to buy and less guesswork when planning a trip. I'd bring it on camping ...
One Bag | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
The classic solo tent that just works. Affordable, easy to pitch, and reliable enough for unpredictable weather, a solid first tent if you're just getting into overnight camping.
Stormbreak 1 Tent | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
Camp comfort, no apologies. This sherpa-lined blanket is the thing you wrap yourself in the second you stop hiking, doubles as extra warmth inside your tent on cold nights.
Wawona Fuzzy Blanket | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
This ultralight sleeping mat weighs just 580 g, making it an excellent choice for backpacking and trekking adventures. Users praise its lightweight design and comfort on the trail. With a 100% recommendation rate, it’s a reliable companion for outdoo...
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT Sleeping Pad
 
selma profile picture
This is the kind of tent I'd choose when comfort matters just as much as being outdoors. I'd use it for family camping, road trips, group adventures, or any trip where camp feels like home for a few days.
Wawona 6 Tent | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
A simple dome tent that's easy to throw in the car and set up for a weekend away. Not the lightest option for backpacking, but great for casual camping trips with a friend or two.
3-Person Dome Tent | Columbia
 
selma profile picture
The sleeping bag I'd recommend for spring, summer, and autumn camping. Ethical down, packs small, rated to -6°C
Kelty Cosmic 20 Down Mummy Sleeping Bag
 
selma profile picture
This lightweight tunnel tent offers a spacious interior while weighing only 2.49 kg. Campers praise its easy setup, roomy design, and practical multiple entrances. Its freestanding structure adds flexibility, making it a reliable choice for outdoor a...
Tent Backpacking 3 People
 
selma profile picture
An easy grab-and-go sleeping bag for summer adventures, whether it’s camping with friends or a spontaneous weekend outdoors.
6.5-Foot Coalridge 40°F Sleeping Bag | Columbia
 
selma profile picture
A small camping pillow can make a surprisingly big difference after a long day outside. Lightweight, packable, and worth bringing along for a better night’s sleep.
Nemo Fillo Elite - Pillow | Free EU Delivery | Bergfreunde

Gear & Essentials

The gear I actually tested on trails 

 
selma profile picture
literally for everything. 14 functions in your pocket. I've used it to fix a broken strap, open a wine bottle, and cut rope
Swiss Army Knife Victorinox Super Tinker , 14 Functions
 
selma profile picture
String it up between two trees, lie down, do nothing. Genuinely my favourite part of any camping trip
Columbia 1-Person Outdoor Camping Hammock
 
selma profile picture
Windproof and basically indestructible. I've cooked pasta on an exposed Swiss ridge with this thing.
Storm Cooker, Trangia TR253HA L, UL Hard Anodized
 
selma profile picture
High altitude sun is brutal and most people underestimate it. This is the only sunscreen I trust on the trail. It is a lightweight Korean sunscreen with SPF 50+ PA++++ that provides strong UV protection while deeply hydrating the skin with multiple f...
Isntree - Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
placeholder
 
selma profile picture
One device, every book I want. Mountains + hammock + Kindle is my idea of a perfect afternoon
Amazon Kindle 16 GB
placeholder
 
selma profile picture
This rechargeable headlamp is built for camping and trekking, offering reliable illumination in all weather conditions. With waterproof IP67 protection, multiple lighting modes, and a red light function, it’s a versatile companion for outdoor adventu...
HEADLAMP Black Diamond, Icon 700 Headlamp - Head torch
 
selma profile picture
This is the kind of camp luxury I absolutely understand packing. I love the idea of starting a morning outdoors with a proper coffee instead of settling for instant, and the collaboration between The North Face and Bialetti just makes it feel a littl...
TNF x Bialetti Moka Set | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
Drink directly from any stream, no filter setup needed. An ultralight and compact water filtration system designed for camping, trekking, and outdoor adventures. Using a hollow fiber membrane filter, it helps provide cleaner drinking water on the go ...
Water Filter for Hiking & Travel LifeStraw Personal
 
selma profile picture
A durable insulated water bottle designed to keep drinks hot or cold for hours, whether you're hiking, camping, traveling, or commuting. Made from stainless steel with a generous 1-liter capacity, it's built to withstand everyday adventures while hel...
Insulated Stainless Steel Bottle 1L - Stoic HeladagenSt.
 
selma profile picture
A compact and lightweight first aid kit that helps you stay prepared on hikes, trail runs, and outdoor adventures. I recommend it because it adds an extra layer of safety without taking up much space or weight in your pack. Perfect for hiking, backpa...
Mammut First Aid Kit Light - First aid kit | Buy online | Bergfreunde
 
selma profile picture
A good lantern can completely change the feel of a campsite. This one combines practical illumination with a classic outdoor aesthetic, making it both functional and enjoyable to use.
Easy Camp Starflower Lantern
 
selma profile picture
This is one of those pieces of gear that makes camp life a little more enjoyable. I like that it feels built to take a beating while keeping drinks and snacks cold for the day, whether you're at a campsite, beach, or picnic spot. I'd bring it on road...
Base Camp™ Cooler 15 Qt | The North Face
 
selma profile picture
There's nothing better than enjoying a hot drink outdoors without it cooling down in minutes. It's practical, sturdy, easy to carry, and a great companion for mornings at camp, on the trail, or at your desk. ☕🏕️
Insulated Cup