The Best Lightweight All Conditions Gear for Backpacking 

The best lightweight backpacking gear keeps every ounce working for you, and Nike's outdoor line, All Conditions Gear (ACG), is built for exactly that. Whether you're hiking a couple of miles to your campsite or on a multi-day trek, pack weight is a major factor in your energy and mood. Research suggests that backpack placement and load can even determine which muscles you activate as you walk. Here are Nike's picks for lightweight backpacking gear from head to toe.

Quick takeaways:

• ACG is Nike's outdoor Collection, designed and tested for all conditions
• Lightweight layers: ACG 'Misery Ridge' shell and ACG 'Lava Flow'
• Packable warmth for camp: ACG 'Lava Loft' Insulated Jacket
• Trail-ready footwear: ACG Zegama Hike for the miles and ACG LDV for camp
• Every pick is chosen to cut weight without sacrificing protection

Nike ACG (All Conditions Gear) is a Collection that is designed and tested for outdoor use. It spans footwear, apparel and equipment and is built to handle changing weather and rugged terrain. That makes it the natural starting point for lightweight backpacking gear. Explore the entire Collection at Nike.com/ACG.

Lightweight Backpacking Gear List

Every ounce counts on the trail, making it important to carry only what you need. These trail essentials should be on your gear list:

• Warm hat or beanie
• Neck gaiter
• Short-sleeve base layer
• Long-sleeve sun or base layer
• Ultralight rain shell
• Packable insulated jacket for camp
• Lightweight hiking trousers
• Sweat-wicking socks
• Trail shoes
• Light camp shoes

Nike ACG (All Conditions Gear) is a Collection that is designed and tested for outdoor use. It spans footwear, apparel and equipment and is built to handle changing weather and rugged terrain. That makes it the natural starting point for lightweight backpacking gear. Explore the entire Collection at Nike.com/ACG.

Lightweight Backpacking Gear List

Every ounce counts on the trail, making it important to carry only what you need. These trail essentials should be on your gear list:

• Warm hat or beanie
• Neck gaiter
• Short-sleeve base layer
• Long-sleeve sun or base layer
• Ultralight rain shell
• Packable insulated jacket for camp
• Lightweight hiking trousers
• Sweat-wicking socks
• Trail shoes
• Light camp shoes

Prepping for cooler, wet weather requires the right amount of layering, starting with a rain jacket. But some jackets can weigh you down, which is why the lightweight ACG Morpho deserves a spot in your pack. The waterproof and windproof Storm-FIT ADV Rain Jacket keeps you dry, while the roomy fit allows you to slide it over a base and middle layer. Zipped pockets secure your stuff.

Cold nights at camp require superior insulation. The ACG Lava Flow is heat-regulating and water-repellent for your comfort on the trail. When you don't need it, simply fold this jacket into its inner pocket for compact storage.

A good mid-layer helps regulate heat without weighing you down. The lightweight ACG Wolf Lichen features soft Polartec® fabric, which helps keep you warm and dry. Thumbholes help hold the sleeves in place.

Much like the right rain layer, your long-sleeve top should pull double duty, and the ACG 'Wildsee' Top for women and 'Solar Chase' for men take on that task. Both are sweat-wicking, lightweight tops that help keep you dry on even the sweatiest hikes. Both have built-in UV protection too. The 'Solar Chase' has a looser fit than a standard base layer, making it a versatile choice.

For warmer days or as your base layer, the ACG Dri-FIT Tee is a versatile choice. It offers sweat-wicking features through Nike Dri-FIT technology, with a soft feel for maximum comfort.

Versatility is a must on the trail, and the ACG 'Aireez' has plenty of it. This buttoned layer allows you to cover up or open up, depending on the weather. UV protection and a poppable collar provide plenty of skin coverage, while the back vent provides airflow. Sweat-wicking fabric keeps you dry on the go.

Even when you're camping in familiar territory, weather conditions can change rapidly, so versatile apparel is critical. The ACG 'High Stakes' trousers are adaptable in calm and stormy weather. Lightweight and water-repellent, they're a great choice if you're unsure what the day might bring. For something both windproof and waterproof, the ACG Morpho Storm-FIT ADV Rain Trousers are the perfect pick. If you're looking for a shorts option, check out the ACG Dolomiti, which are water-repellent and feature UV-resistant tech.

Nike offers a wide selection of lightweight kicks that work well when you want to transition out of heavier hiking boots. One pair that's ideal for throwing into your lightweight backpacking gear mix is the ACG Zegama Hike. They have stacked cushioning and reliable traction lugs to help you stay comfortable and controlled on the trail.

If comfort is critical, the ACG seamless headband makes a great addition to your wardrobe. Not only does it help keep hair out of your eyes, but it is also made with sweat-wicking Dri-FIT technology.

Although scarves can be useful for warmth, they tend to be cumbersome when you're hiking. They also often add more weight than you need, which is why gaiters are a great choice for backpacking. The ACG Reversible Trail Running Wrap is a lightweight option with sweat-wicking fabric to shuttle moisture away from your skin. Plus, it has UVA and UVB protection.

Not only can thick cotton socks take up more space in a backpack, but they can also trap moisture like sweat when you're wearing them. Making the switch to an option like the ACG Everyday Elevated Socks can save you room, lighten your load and provide cushioning and sweat-wicking features. They even have reflective design elements in key areas, which is helpful when hiking at dawn or dusk.