Meet the 51 Winners of the 2022 SELF Outdoor Awards

Getting outside is good for you: Whether you’re taking a #HotGirlWalk in your neighborhood, hiking on a trail, or car camping with a group of friends, being outdoors provides the opportunity to move, rest, and play. Part of any successful adventure is having the gear you need to feel safe, comfortable, and prepared, which is why we’re psyched to share the inaugural SELF Outdoor Awards, featuring the products that outdoors experts, adventurers, and writers swear by again and again.

To pick our winners, we asked experts with serious outdoorsy chops to nominate and review their favorite products of all time. Then, we combed through all of their suggestions—taking into consideration research we’ve done on these types of products in the past—to select the winning list of items that stand the test of time. These are the products that outdoor adventurers rely on for a successful trip, be it camping, hiking, backpacking, trail running, and more. 

Below, check out all 51 winners of the 2022 SELF Outdoor Awards.

Apparel, Shoes, and Accessories

Best Daypack: Gregory Maya 22 Liter Backpack

This low-profile daypack is designed specifically for women—and even comes in a 16-liter plus-size version, an unfortunately rare option amongst many popular outdoor brands. On this pack, the foam back panel provides ventilation to help you avoid back sweat, and the quick stow pockets on the shoulder harness and hip belt allow you to easily access items like sunglasses or snacks.

SELF says: As SELF previously reported, the best hiking daypacks should be multifunctional and designed with all the features that will help make your day trek a success. The Maya pack fits the bill and then some thanks to its size-inclusive range.

Gregory Maya 22 Liter Backpack

Best Fanny Pack: UST Gear Swerve Hip Pack

The modular design of this fanny pack makes it versatile and easy to customize based on your preferences or adventure needs. Wear it around your hips, as a cross-body sling, or even attach it to your handlebars as a bike pack. Padded pockets keep items like sunglasses and phones safe and secure. Plus, there’s a pocket specifically sized for lip balm.

The experts say: “It’s very spacious and adjustable,” says Brandi Small, an outdoor enthusiast and hiker. “I like that I can keep things separate and take parts of it on or off.” Small also notes that this fanny pack is functional, easy to clean, stylish, and sturdy—zipper included. She uses it on short hikes and when she is out walking and training her dog.

Best Standing Child Carrier: Piggy Back Rider

Toting your toddler on a hike becomes easier with this lightweight carrier. Here’s how it works: You wear the Piggy Back Rider just like a backpack, and your toddler stands on a metal bar for support. A harness keeps your kiddo secure and connected to you at all times, but still allows them to move a little more freely than a traditional carrier.

The experts say: “We were introduced to this product on Instagram and have been using it for about one-and-a-half years now,” Zenovia Stephens, founder and CEO of Black Kids Adventures, tells SELF. “We use it when our youngest son is tired or not in the mood to hike. It’s easy to wear, easy for the child to get in and out of, and has optional add-ons to tote extra items.” The most notable feature? “Kids are able to look out above the person carrying them so they can still have a great view,” Stephens says.

Best Kids’ Hydration Pack: CamelBak Kids’ Mini M.U.L.E. 50-Ounce Hydration Pack

Basically a mini of the CamelBak hydration packs adults know and love, this kid-sized version holds 1.5 liters of water and has reflective strips and a whistle to keep your family-friendly adventures safe. The breathable mesh back panel and harness help reduce sweating and zippered pockets ensure your little one won’t leave a trail of their belongings behind them.