The 16 Best Climbing Essentials for Ladies

1. Gregory Signal 32L Backpack - Women's

Give yourself ample storage for a day on the trail or a day around campus with the Gregory Signal 32L Backpack. It's spacious enough to fit the clothes, gear, or books you need, and offers comfortable support that you'll love when you're spending lots of time walking. An organizer panel and 15-inch laptop sleeve help you keep the essentials for work or school securely stashed, while a sternum strap, compression side straps, and a removable waist belt help you carry the load up steep terrain in the woods. Stretch mesh side pockets will keep water bottles close by, and the air mesh back panel will help you avoid stuffiness and discomfort on the trail or on the street.

• Handy everyday pack for trips to school and treks to the summit
• 32L size is spacious but not too bulky
• Fifteen-inch laptop sleeve lets you tote along with a computer or tablet
• Organizer panel keeps everyday items in place
• Airmesh back panel keeps you cool when you're hiking hard
• Stretch mesh pockets let you keep your water bottle close by
• Women's specific shoulder harness offers ergonomic comfort
• Reflective accents keep you visible in darker conditions
• Item #GRE00AG

2. The North Face Aleia 32L Backpack - Women's

With The North Face Aleia 32 Backpack, there are more than seven internal and external pockets to give you unlimited organizational options. You receive two tool keepers and a hydration sleeve to make multi-day hikes simpler with the option to carry extra gear and more water. And to add comfort to versatility, this pack also has a women-specific trampoline-style suspended mesh back panel for extra breathability and support, as well as a vented-foam package to cushion your back.

Organization and comfort are huge components for hiking, but you also need to be able to move lightly and cruise through the trails. Luckily, the Aleia 32 Backpack is designed with beaver tail construction for integrated compression and storage, which lets you pack for multi-day hikes without adding unnecessary weight. This means that you store all your essentials easily and stride on comfortably.

• A low-profile pack for your next day hike
• 32L capacity holds anything you might need in a day
• High-denier synthetic fabric stands up to wear and tear
• Multiple pockets help you keep your gear organized
• Compatible with most hydration bladders
• Front panel access lets you grab your gear easily
• Item #TNF036X

3. Osprey Packs Sirrus 24L Backpack - Women's

The second you put on the Osprey Women's Sirrus 24 Backpack and feel its mesh AirSpeed back panel successfully transfer the load to your legs, you get overwhelmingly excited, if not giddy for the big hike ahead. The AirSpeed suspension system combines the rigidity of aluminum stays with a tensioned mesh back panel for effective load transfer and cross ventilation, while the Women-specific Spacer Mesh hip-belt and shoulder straps ensure your load rests where it should for max efficiency and pain-free hiking.

Its ErgoPull waistbelt closure makes cinching down the belt easy, and hipbelt pockets hold your camera, shades, or quick snacks so you keep spirits high. And if rain starts to fall on your adventure, deploy the integrated rain cover to keep your gear dry as a bone. A Stow-on-the-Go feature on the left side lets you holster your trekking poles or ice axe for hands-free walking, and the compression straps let you adjust the pack's volume to fit different load sizes.

• An easily organizable, lightweight, and supportive daypack
• Breathable, mesh backpanel with aluminum stays transfers loads
• Mesh, padded shoulder straps stabilize the load comfortably
• Integrated rain cover helps keep your gear dry
• Ice ax and trekking pole attachments free up your hands
• Compression straps cinch down bulky loads
• Osprey packs are based out of Cortez, CO
• Item #OSP007W

4. Gregory Jade 28L Backpack - Women's

Calling the Gregory Women's Jade 28 Backpack a daypack is an understatement; this all-season trekker handles summer ridge runs and winter ice climbs with ease. Its Crossflo DTS suspension system features a wired X-frame that stretches trampoline-like mesh tight, and there's an HDPE framesheet with an anti-barreling stay for sturdy support. Cushy, ventilated EVA covers the shoulder straps and waistbelt for extra comfort.

The Jade is a traditional top-loader, upgraded with a larger zippered opening for better access to gear. There are an internal sleeve and tube port for hydration reservoirs, as well as an external pocket with a removable rain cover inside. The backpack's bottom loops attach trekking poles or ice axes, and Gregory added dual stretch side pockets for water bottles, dual waistbelt pockets for lip balm and energy gels, and security pockets both inside and out for electronics and valuables.

• Crossflo DTS suspension
• Adjustable, padded shoulder straps and waistbelt
• Zippered top access
• Hydration sleeve and port
• Removable rain cover
• Trekking pole/ice ax attachment loops
• Dual stretch side and waistbelt pockets
• Internal and external security pockets
• Item #GRE005J

5. Gregory Maya 16L Backpack - Women's

With a flexible, yet supportive BioSync design, side-strap compression system, and a slew of handy pockets, the Gregory Maya 16 Backpack is ideal for full-day hikes or epic mountain bike rides. The Maya's BioSync suspension system allows the pack to move with your body in motion and keeps the pack centered on your back. Side compression straps secure the load so it doesn't shift around inside the pack.

The pack's hydration tube management system keeps the drinking tube within easy reach, so you don't have to divert your attention to take a drink. Dual waist belt pockets and side pockets make it easy to access the things that you need to get to in a hurry, like your camera or a snack. The Gregory Maya 16 fits a two-liter hydration reservoir, which is enough for a day hike or a long cross-country mountain bike ride.

• BioSync ATS suspension system
• Tough nylon construction
• Side compression straps
• Helmet carry
• Hydration clip-on straps
• Multiple pockets
• Helmet carry
• Safety light lash point
• Item #GRE005V

6. Deuter Airlite SL 14L Backpack - Women's

Trail ready and street smart, the Deuter Women's Airlite 14 SL Backpack will work well for your everyday needs and carry what you need to get out into the mountains over the weekend.

Featuring Deuter's SL Women's fit system, the Airlite 14 SL's shoulder straps are set more narrow than normal to accommodate more petite female frames, and they feature soft edges along the straps to eliminate pressure points and reduce the chance of chaffing. Realizing women's hips are shaped differently then men's, the AirLite 14 SL has a conical shape to better deliver a more anatomic fit for women.

The pack itself features a twin-frame construction capable of comfortably carrying up to 13-pounds of gear. A detachable rain cover keeps your gear dry whether you're walking home, or you get caught out on the trail in a storm. A hydration compatible design makes for quick on-trail hydration, while stretch side pockets stow water bottles. A single webbing hip belt adds to the comfort of the pack, and the 3D Airmesh lining further promotes the breathability of the pack.

• SL Women's fit system
• Aircomfort Flexlite ventilation system
• Twin-frame construction
• 13lb load capacity
• Front panel access
• Detachable rain cover
• Hydration system compatible
• Stretch side pockets with front bungee stow
• Valuables pocket with key hook
• Compression straps
• Low-profile shoulder straps
• Single webbing hip belt
• Item #DTR001U

7. The North Face Hydra 26L Backpack - Women's

Head off on your day-long missions with the Women's Hydra 26L Backpack from The North Face. Its minimalist design reduces weight while still allowing quick access to the contents of the pack when you're traveling long distances.

This lightweight design is enhanced by the patent-pending Dyno Lift System that doesn't add any weight and features a self-equalizing, on-the-fly, adjustable load lifters for a comfortable carry through the miles. A FlashDry back panel provides you with a quick-drying, breathable performance for strenuous ascents while the T6 aluminum frame allows you to have total freedom of movement when scrambling up to the summit.

• Backpack with a minimalist design to tackle your day-long missions
• 26L accommodates tools, extra layers, hydration system, and snacks
• Lightweight design helps to keep you fast and nimble on the trails
• Dyno Lift System features self-equalizing, on-the-fly load lifters
• FlashDry, trampoline back panel is breathable and quick-drying
• Easily accessible pockets allow you to quickly get to your gear
• Reflective webbing provides visibility in low light conditions
• Two tool keepers stash your poles or ice axes when not needed
• Item #TNF05CG

8. Gregory Sula 18L Backpack - Women's

During the work week, you might be able to squeeze in a short hike, but you probably can't take the full day.

Whether you go out for sunrise or sunset, bring the Gregory Women's Sula 18L Backpack to carry your gear. Even over a short hike, the weather can change quickly, so throw in a rain or wind jacket, some water, and plenty of snacks just in case.

This pack is hydration compatible because you need to keep water with you even though the early and late parts of the day to give you a break from the heat. The Sula has EVA foam in the shoulder straps to absorb shock while the webbing chest and waist straps minimize bouncing for a smooth, comfortable hike.

• Daypack for short, technical hikes
• 18L is plenty of space for a layer and snacks
• Compatible with a 3L hydration reservoir
• Suspension and compression straps adjust the carriage
• Webbing chest and waist straps minimize bouncing
• Accessory pockets help you stay organized
• Item #GRE009O

9. Ultimate Direction FastpackHer 20L Backpack - Women's

Designed for keeping things moving on the trail, the fast packer 20L Backpack is a streamlined, lightweight way to carry the essentials. Ultimate Direction started as a running brand, and as such constructed this pack with features like strap pockets that leave space for your water bottle and phone, enabling you to take a sip or take a photo without dropping your pack.

The lightweight material is more durable than it feels and withstands the abrasive nature of the trail without weighing you down. You can access the main compartment through a vertical zipper or the roll-top, so your gear stays dry and easily accessible.

• Technical pack for fast-and-light days on the trail
• Nylon ACE RIP fabric provides superior abrasion resistance
• DWR treatment sheds light precipitation
• InfiKnit mesh harness and back panel provide airflow
• Roll-top closure adjusts pack size and seals out moisture
• Main compartment zipper provides easy gear access
• Dual sternum straps adjust vertically and horizontally
• Loops store your ice tools or trekking poles
• Item #ULD003R

10. Deuter Guide Lite SL 28L Backpack - Women's

Not only does the Deuter Women's Guide Lite 28 SL Backpack save weight with its sleek, alpine-ready design, but it's built to fit lady mountaineers for ultimate comfort during challenging climbs and long backcountry tours. The women-specific SL fit, lightweight materials, and versatile features on this alpine pack ensure a superior fit during the long approach, icy ascent, and demanding descent. Even when fully loaded, the Alpine Back system keeps the load solid and balanced with its Delrin frame, adjustable waist belt, and removable padding.

• A women's backpack for climbing and mountaineering
• Alpine Back system keeps pack solid and balanced
• Hydration compatibility with hose entry port
• Top lid contains zippered valuables pocket
• Compression straps, ice axe loops, and ski straps
• Item #DTR004T

11. Gregory Sigma 28L Backpack - Women's

Whether you're bagging a new peak or embarking on your daily commute to work, the Gregory Sigma 28L Backpack has your back. It holds everything you need for your workday, including your 15in laptop, or snacks and extra layers for your hike. Internal organization pockets keep everything easy to access and the soft-touch liner in the top quick access pocket keeps your tablet or phone safe while you make your way to your destination.

The plush air mesh back panel with dual density foam keeps you comfortable on a full day of wear while the dual side compression straps center and balance your load for higher mobility up the trail. When the work day goes long or if you spend too much time on the summit reflective elements and a light loop add visibility for a safer journey home.

• Technical pack that has your back on day hikes and commutes alike
• 28L comfortably holds work or trail essentials for a successful day
• Soft-touch lined top quick access pocket holds your fragile items
• Dedicated laptop compartment protects your computer during commutes
• Reflective accents and light loop provide visibility on night hikes
• Airmesh back panel with dual density foam provides day-long comfort
• Dual side compression straps center the load for higher mobility
• Item #GRE00AF

12. Deuter Gravity Motion SL 35L Backpack - Women's

The Gravity Motion SL 35L Backpack is ready to step in as your go-to climbing daypack. It's got a low-profile, minimalist design that betrays just how much storage it's packing, and a comfortable carrying system with a special contoured fit for female climbers.

The Gravity suspension system keeps the pack's load close to your body for greater stability, and features ventilated padding on the back and straps for breathable comfort, as well as a flexible frame that lends structure and support for long approaches.

Stretchy zippered side pockets keep climbing shoes and water bottles tucked away but still within easy reach, and gear loops along the front of the pack let you easily lash on anything that can't fit inside. On the other side of the pack you've got back panel entry for easy access that doesn't require rooting around your pack from the top, letting you access important gear quickly when you need to.

Compression straps help pull the load in closer and offer external storage for a waterproof shell or puffy, while a top haul loop makes it easy to lug up after you on all-time multi-pitch climbs.

• Reliable daypack for all of your climbing missions
• Comfortable carry system offers ventilation, stability, and support
• The main compartment can be accessed via the back panel for convenience
• Stretchy side pockets offer extra storage for gear and hydration
• Compression straps provide stability and storage for extra layers
• Daisy chain loops let you lash on extra pieces of gear
• Top haul loop makes it easy to pull up steep faces
• Security pocket keeps your keys and phone tucked safely away
• Item #DTR008W

13. Thule Stir 28L Backpack - Women's

Equal parts durable and versatile, the Thule Women's Stir 28L Hiking Backpack is able to be fully loaded for day hikes or stripped down for running errands around town. Its tough nylon construction holds up through demanding days on the trail, while the breathable back panel and shoulder straps promote cool, breathable comfort on warmer summer hikes.

The removable hip-belt and sternum strap open up your carry options, depending on what the day has in store for you, while the removable compression straps cinch down the load and quickly attach awkwardly-shaped items.

You'll have easy access to water courtesy of the side water bottle pockets, dedicated hydration sleeve, and drink tube exit port, while the side loops securely carry your ice axes or trekking poles when you need your hands to take on a quick scramble to the summit:

• Durable hiking daypack built with technical, versatile features

• Burly fabric withstands hard wear and tear on the trail
• Back panel and shoulder straps enhance breathable comfort
• Removable sternum strap and hip-belt offer carry options
• Hydration-compatible design helps keep water close by
• Reflective details increase your visibility in low-light conditions
• Trekking pole and ice ax loops carry your hiking tools
• Item #THU006R

14. Thule Stir Hiking 35L Backpack - Women's

Thule's always been the go-to name for roof racks, hitch racks, and general cargo carrying, but it's been getting into the technical pack game, and the early results haven't been too shabby.

The new Stir Women's Hiking Pack, for example, has an innovative top-access design that combines a cinch-down opening, top storm flap, and internal zip to keep all your gear locked down and organized. As impressively, the StormGuard design features a partial hideaway rain cover that teams up with the Stir's rugged lined bottom to create a waterproof package that's still usable when it's covered up.

The Stir is both customizable and well designed due to a sliding back panel to fit different torso sizes and a removable hip belt and sternum strap to give it a more streamlined look for around-town use. A side zipper provides easy access to buried layers and pockets at the shoulder strap, front, side, and top supply convenient spots to stash your phone, water, rain shell, and snacks. There's even a dual ice ax/trekking pole carrying system so you can be prepared if things start to get technical.

• Elastin-coated nylon fabrics
• Easy-access cinch lid with StormGuard inner closure
• Waterproof bottom liner and partial rain cover
• Adjustable fit
• Removable hip belt and sternum strap
• Top and side access
• Stretch shoulder strap, front, side, and internal top pockets
• Ice ax/trekking pole attachment
• Item #THU003K

15. Deuter Airlite 26 SL Backpack - Women's

A true do-it-all daypack, the Deuter Airlite 26 SL Backpack is ready for any adventure on the trail. It's got all the features you need for peak-bagging, ridgeline wandering day hikes, including a comfortable ventilated carry system that makes it easy to bring a pack along on even the hottest days.

The AirComfort back system features a flexible frame construction with an air-permeable back and straps, allowing for both breathability and a supportive carry on warm summer hikes. With enough capacity for a day's worth of snacks, gear, and layers, this pack boasts extra storage thanks to its stretchy side pockets that stash water bottles and snacks and a large external stretch pocket that keeps a waterproof shell close by in case of unexpected downpours.

In that event, your pack will stay dry too thanks to its deployable, detachable rain cover keeping your precious cargo safe and dry. For even more trail convenience, you've got a trekking pole attachment system that lets you keep your hands free on steep summit scrambles, as well as hydration compatibility that allows for easy drinking as you push towards high heights and wide open views.

• Feature-heavy daypack for all of your dawn-to-dusk summer hikes
• AirComfort system provides ventilation on the back and straps
• Compatible with 2 and 3L reservoirs for easy hydration on the trail
• Deployable rain cover keeps your gear dry in wet weather
• Trekking pole carry lets you keep your hands free when you need to
• Stretch pockets on the side and front hold water bottles and layers
• Hipbelt pockets keep snacks within easy reach at all times
• Compression straps, waistbelt, and sternum strap provide stability
• Item #DTR008K

16. Deuter Trail 28 SL Backpack - Women's

Deuter tailored the women-specific SL suspension system on its ACT Trail 28 SL Backpack specifically for backcountry adventurers looking to carry heavy loads of gear comfortably. Stash a day's worth of supplies inside, get to them quickly via the dual-zip front access when you need to, and then hit the trail in comfort with the breathable Airmesh-lined shoulder straps and back panel easing your load.

AirContact Trail uses contoured shoulder straps with a mesh lining, a ventilation channel between the pack padding, breathable foam back pads, and anatomically-formed hip fins to make heavy loads comfortable to carry. The SL Women's Fit System has soft edges to the straps (which are shorter and narrower), smaller buckles, curved west belt wings, and shorter-length suspension system.

• Technical daypack for all-day adventures
• AirContact Trail suspension lifts the load
• Tough 3D AirMesh provides climate control
• Dual-zip front access allows for quick access to important gear
• Small valuables pockets, a helmet flap, a wet laundry compartment
• Ice-axe and trekking-pole loops provide ample storage
• Item #DTR007Y