Best Hiking Gear: 12 Cool-Weather Essentials

Columbia Ascender Softshell Vest

Fall weather can be tricky to predict, but don’t let fluctuating temperatures and quick-moving weather patterns prevent you from hitting the trails. Columbia’s Ascender vest will keep wind and cold at bay without restricting your arm movements—paired with a long sleeved tee, a thin fleece, or a sturdy rain shell, you're layered and ready for any conditions you might encounter on the trail.

($72, columbia.com)