Here at ToughCutie we make women’s hiking socks and want to create an inclusive outdoor space for all people. Diversity and inclusivity on the trail is at the core of our values and we want to help make the outdoors accessible for all people. Here is a collection of tips, tricks, organizations and locations where you can enjoy hiking outside despite your race, gender, body, ability or level of experience in the outdoors. We want you to feel safe in the outdoors as well as create a safe space for others to recreate outside too!
Safety tips for solo female hikers
One way to create diversity and inclusivity on the trail is by offering safety tips for women who may feel more vulnerable going on a hike alone. By being prepared for all scenarios and creating allyship around solo females in outdoor spaces, we can create a community of more supported and confident women who recreate outside. We recommend solo female hikers to stay on populated routes and tell their friends and family where you are going. Some other important safety tips for solo female hikers are packing essential items, learning self-defense skills and using good judgment/trusting your instincts. Read more specific tips for women hiking alone on our ToughCutie blog, Safety tips for solo female hikers.
How to be a male ally while hiking
Being a male ally on the trail is important to creating a safe environment for female, LGBTQIA and BIPOC hikers. Whether you are on a hike with friends or passing others on the trail, being self aware and welcoming is always encouraged. There are specific ways to be a male ally on the trail that can help eliminate barriers and make outdoor spaces more inclusive. Taking the time to educate yourself and being mindful of your privilege is a good way to start. It’s also important to use mindful communication and to let others take charge and be the leader on the trail while you’re hiking.
National parks with easy hikes
Here at ToughCutie we want everyone to know that hiking doesn’t have to be strenuous! We want the outdoors to be an inclusive space where all people of any athletic ability can go on a hike regardless of their level or experience. We hope to diversify the hiking industry by providing resources for different national parks in the United States that have easy hikes with stunning views. By providing different areas, parks or trails with shorter, low-incline trails, we can provide more hiking opportunities for beginners or for people looking for a less challenging hike. Many people don’t realize you can see amazing views on hikes that are shorter, you don’t have to summit a mountain!
BIPOC hiking groups across the United States
Another way to create more diversity and inclusivity on the trail is by getting involved with different BIPOC hiking groups. If you are a Person of Color looking for more people in the BIPOC community to hike with, there are many different organizations providing these opportunities across the country. Check out these 10 BIPOC hiking groups that are working towards a more diverse and inclusive outdoor space. Join a hike, go to an event or consider donating to one of these organizations. Help provide them with more financial resources to hold events and bring more BIPOC hikers into the outdoors!
The best beginner hikes in Texas
Since ToughCutie is headquartered in Austin, Texas, we compiled a list of beginner hikes in Texas for all of our friends and neighbors. From Big Bend National Park to nature trails near the city, there are many options for beginner friendly hikes throughout the state. As a beginner hiker it’s nice to know about some local spots that are a short drive from home as well as other trails that could provide a fun weekend hiking experience. Take a short evening hike after work or book a camping trip near Colorado Bend State Park. We want to break down the stereotypes that hiking has to involve summiting peaks. Hiking can be whatever you want it to be! You can take a short half mile stroll on a nature trail, hike up a hill for scenic views or visit a state park for the weekend and take a few hikes.
High quality hiking gear for women
Having the best quality gear for hiking is essential for comfort and support. At times, being a woman can make things a bit more challenging on the trail. High quality gear can make a world of difference for a woman’s experience on a hike. Make sure you have the correct hiking boots and trekking poles matched with a pair of ToughCutie Eve socks. Some of the challenges that come for female hikers involve what clothing to wear. The Athleta Ultimate Bra can support women of all cup sizes and investing in a pair of Gnara Go There Pants will help women pee with more ease and privacy when they are on a busy hiking trail.
With all these different tips, recommendations and organizations we can help diversify the outdoors and make a more inclusive environment for all hikers.
Written by: Lydia Schuldt