Captain's Pick 12 · Summit & Rails
Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP
America's best-selling hiker — real ankle trust on switchbacks and scree, comfortable out of the box. No blister tax.
See it on Amazon →What it is
The Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is Merrell's mid-height hiking boot with a waterproof membrane and a grippy Vibram sole.
Why it's on my list
It's the boot plenty of hikers buy and never replace with anything else: comfortable from day one, and solid on wet rock and loose trail.
Best for
Hikers who want one dependable boot for every trail.
Captain's tip
Wear them around town for a week before a big trip to get your feet used to them.
More from Summit & Rails
Read the full guide: Hiking Gear for National Parks: Summit & Rails
Osprey Stratos 24
Full suspension that disappears on your shoulders at mile one — with a built-in raincover, because the mountains don't check the forecast.
See it on Amazon →Read Captain Ron's review
YETI Rambler Bottle
Ice water at the summit, hot coffee on the morning train platform. Third YETI on the route — the captain packs what works.
See it on Amazon →Read Captain Ron's review
Marmot PreCip Eco Shell
Mountain weather changes its mind hourly. This jacket doesn't care — and it packs down to nothing.
See it on Amazon →Read Captain Ron's review