I've spent way too much money on Patagonia — and I'd buy these 9 Patagonia summer hiking essentials in a heartbeat

(Image credit: Erin Bashford)

Hiking in summer can be a preparation nightmare — but don't worry, I've got the fix! I don't know about you, but the weather where I live is chaotic. It can be pouring rain one minute, then blisteringly hot the next. And, of course, as soon as the sun sets, it's freezing. When I go camping or hiking, I need to dress for all climates: I need a rain jacket, a fleece, and leggings/shorts.Usually, my summer hiking gear plan looks like this: my Patagonia Torrentshell jacket (love), my Columbia Helvetia fleece for evenings (also love), and my Patagonia Arbor backpack (now discontinued, but still love). I've spent way too much money perfecting my hiking wardrobe, but I'm not mad about it. For summer treks, you need a moisture-wicking base, a fleece for nighttime, sturdy, breathable shoes, and a rain jacket.I test hiking gear for a living — the Keen Jasper Zionic, multiple Columbia items, and Merrell Moab 3 — so let me walk you through my 9 Patagonia summer hiking essentials.We're tracking all the best Prime Day Footwear dealsThe Tom's Guide Savings Squad is busy finding the best products for less this Prime Day! Follow Tom's Guide on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get all the latest. Alternatively, you can read our content on the Tom's Guide app available now for iOS and Android.