Rooted in Scandinavian design and tested in some of the harshest environments on earth, SILVA products are built to help you explore further with confidence. Now that summer’s on the horizon, it’s time to stock up on some high-quality hiking gear that you can trust.
From high-performance headlamps to ultra-comfortable running vests and award-winning compasses, SILVA equips athletes and nature lovers with the tools to explore the outdoors in safety.
Summer hiking tips and safety essentials
Even the simplest outdoor adventure deserves smart preparation, even when it comes to hiking in the summer months. When you’re planning your next adventure, pay close attention to your gear. Is it suitable for the expected conditions, terrain, and length of your trip?
Whether you’re chasing sea air in the South Downs or rambling through wooded trails, the difference between a great day out and a stressful one often comes down to the gear you bring with you.
As with any adventure, safety should be your top priority when planning your next hiking trip. Here are our top five tips for staying safe on the trails this summer and the gear to make it happen.
1. Your phone can’t do it all
Navigation, photos, flashlight, it adds up fast. In an emergency, a drained phone battery is more than just an inconvenience.
Be sure to let someone know your plans beforehand by sharing your route and estimated return time with a friend. Always bring a compass and physical map in a waterproof pouch as backup. They’re reliable, battery-free and SILVA has been perfecting both since 1933.
Classic Compass – £17.99
As inventors of the world’s first liquid-filled compass, it’s safe to say that SILVA knows a thing or two about navigation. This Classic Compass is for no-fuss guidance when only the basics are needed.
It offers standard map scale compatibility (1:50k and 1:25k), is waterproof and comes with a detachable lanyard so you won’t lose it on the trails.
Perfect for entry-level explorers of all ages, "SILVA compasses are recommended by The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award for their precision and durability."
Find out more about the SILVA Classic Compass here.
Waterproof Map Case – £19.99
When adverse weather rolls in, your map will need protection from the elements. The Silva Waterproof Lite Map Case S keeps your navigation tools dry, visible and always on hand.
Designed to fit A4 maps (235mm x 297mm), this case is crafted from ultra-light, durable TPU that shrugs off rain, mud and splashes. Both sides are crystal-clear and touchscreen-friendly, so whether you're checking a route or zooming in on a digital trail, everything stays protected and accessible.
A reliable zip-lock closure seals out the elements and integrated attachment points make it easy to secure to your backpack, kayak deck or handlebars. Built with versatility in mind, it’s made to fit Ordnance Survey, Harvey and other standard-format maps.
Find out more about the Waterproof Map Case here.
2. Always pack a headlamp
It’s tempting to leave it behind on longer days, but daylight doesn’t always follow your plans. A missed turn, unexpected weather, or simply a slower pace than expected can easily leave you navigating after dark.
A compact SILVA headlamp weighs next to nothing but makes a huge difference if you're still out after sunset. Plus, it spares your phone battery for emergencies.
SILVA Smini Headlamp – £49.99
Compact. Lightweight. Surprisingly powerful. Don’t let its size fool you, the Smini Headlamp packs a punch. Weighing just 53g and small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, this ultra-compact headlamp is built for everyday runs or commutes and is the perfect size to stash in your pack for summer hikes in case of emergency.
With a bright 250-lumen beam and three different light modes, it lights the way with ease, while an integrated red light helps preserve your night vision for when you need it. A rear safety light boosts visibility from behind, enhancing the wearer’s safety on low-light urban routes or twilight trails.
Designed with comfort in mind, Smini features a swappable 15mm slim headband that stays put, without feeling too bulky. The USB-C battery is rechargeable, while battery life is from 1.5 hours to 20 hours, depending on the light mode.
Find out more about the SILVA Smini Headlamp here.
3. Dress for the weather you might get
Even on blue-sky days, conditions can shift quickly, especially in the UK. Pack a light waterproof jacket, an extra layer, and sun protection so you’re covered, rain or shine. You’ll need a comfortable backpack to store everything in, along with a reliable dry bag to protect your valuables.
SILVA Dry Bags 70D – £14.99
These dry bags are designed to strike the ideal balance between low weight and durability. Built to handle rough conditions and wet environments, they’re made to handle all sorts of outdoor adventures, from trips on two wheels, on water, or during day hikes in unpredictable weather (in other words, a classic UK summer).
These dry bags should keep gear dry and protected from the elements. Made from 70 denier nylon fabric, the bags have the classic roll-top and clip closure design and are available in the following volumes: 3L, 6L, 12L, 24L, 36L.
Find out more about the Silva Dry Bags 70D here.
SILVA Strive Fly Vest – £64.99
The Strive Fly is SILVA’s most lightweight running vest, weighing in at 113g. Made from ripstop nylon and breathable mesh, it’s designed for ventilation and minimal bulk during fast runs or races.
It includes two front bottle pockets with adjustable straps, dual-access side pockets for small items like snacks or gloves, and a rear mesh compartment for extra layers. An additional zip pocket with a key hook offers secure storage for valuables.
The Strive also has four adjustable straps for carrying running poles and is compatible with the Strive Quiver (£24.99), allowing flexible pole placement.
Available in four sizes (XS–L) and three colour options, the Strive Fly prioritises simplicity, lightweight function and race-day practicality. Though it’s designed primarily for runners, it would also work well as a lightweight and breathable pack for day hiking, especially in the summer months.
Find out more about the SILVA Strive Fly Vest here.
SILVA Strive Mountain Pack 17+3 – £119.99
Built for endurance adventures, the SILVA Strive Mountain Pack 17+3 is a technical, lightweight backpack ideal for trail running, mountain missions and fastpacking.
With a 17-litre main compartment and an optional 3-litre expansion, it offers plenty of space for layers, fuel and essentials. Made from durable ripstop nylon with breathable mesh, it’s designed for comfort and ventilation over long distances.
The pack features a secure dual sternum strap, wide hip belt with zip pockets, front bottle holders, a hydration bladder sleeve and multiple stash pockets for organised storage. It's also pole-compatible and works with the Strive Quiver (£24.99) for flexible pole placement.
Available in two unisex sizes (S/M and M/L), it’s a go-to choice for long-distance runners and outdoor athletes who need smart, stable carry without added bulk.
Find out more about the SILVA Strive Mountain Pack 17+3 here.
4. Overpack on water and snacks
A short hike can easily stretch longer. Staying hydrated and energised keeps spirits high and decisions sharp. Hydration is especially important for summer hikes, pack an extra few soft flask bottles in case you need them. They take up less space than a standard bottle and roll away lighter than a feather when empty.
SILVA Soft Flask Straw – £16.99
This soft flask is designed with a long, flexible straw for drinking hands-free and a self-sealing nozzle to help avoid any spills on the go.
The flask provides an additional 500ml of fluids for hot summer hikes, just be sure to pair it with a pack with front bottle sleeves to make the most of it.
The transparent flask is free from any nasty BPA, phthalates, and PVC. While the top of the flask itself has a wide opening, which should aid easy cleaning and refills.
Find out more about the SILVA Soft Flask Strawhere.
5. Be prepared for all terrains
We all love exploring new trails and routes in the summertime, rounding the corner on a new vista is one of the priceless joys of hiking. But unknown routes will bring up unexpected obstacles, and one of these can be difficult terrain.
To tackle unstable or mountainous routes with tricky terrain, a pair of trekking poles will be your best friend. They’re an extra two legs holding you upright when the trail shifts beneath you and a helping hand down a steep incline.
For longer hikes, poles can also help conserve your energy and ease the impact on sore muscles and joints.
Carbon Trekking Poles – £119.99
These are some of the stiffest carbon poles we’ve tested (see our review), with thick, stable shafts that feel rock-solid yet weigh a mere 200g each.
The three-section telescopic design offers a wide range of adjustment (110-140cm) via twin flick locks, with no tools needed thanks to easy hand-tightening dials.
Clear markings on each section make on-the-go adjustments simple. The cork and foam handles are substantial and great at providing grip for larger hands, while soft wrist straps keep comfort a priority.
Oversized baskets handle mud and snow well for those more extreme hiking conditions. All in all, these carbon trekking poles offer impressive durability and stability and make a good safety addition for summer day hikes.
Find out more about the SILVA Carbon Trekking Poles here.