

Tbh I feel like less is more, and a lot of these depend on duration/climate.
Universal is good boots. I like something light waterproof and high ankle for the most versatility. I use an old pair of danners they’re pretty good, only complaint is the top is too wide and little gravel pieces get in there on messier trails. My dads got the on cloud ones and likes them a lot. Says they’re pretty comfortable.
Depending on hike length I’ll either hydrate well before or carry a water bottle (~2 hours or less) or bring a camelback bladder in a light camelback backpack (longer hike). Honestly love that thing I’ve had it 15+ years and it’s nice just getting water from a straw on your shoulder.
Next is climate. Hot: light breathable quick dry tee. Super sunny: make it long sleeve with a bucket hat and/or sunscreen. Chance of rain: light rain jacket (like you mentioned). I got a Helly Hansen one that’s built well. Cold/chilly: layers. I almost always end up taking them off once I get moving, but it’s good to have for breaks/start/end. Really cold (30-45F) would be like a puffer jacket that can pack down (I have an arc Teryx but I don’t think it’s that much better than a north face or a Costco generic). Moderately chilly (45-60F) a light mellanzana type sweater/jacket.
Food for 4+ hour hikes: I like fruit (oranges, apples, tomatoes), potato chips (the salt hits different after a good sweat), beef sticks, pb&j, and beer. Maybe an electrolyte powder if it’s really hot.
(Honorable mention to crocs or birks to get out of your boots as soon as you get back to the car)
I think most other gear is dead weight. Did a 26 mile day hike across the whole Grand Canyon with just the camelback and food (11 lbs total) and hot/sunny clothes option above and smoked all the people with 20+ pound packs and random gear
He probably mistook +7 with -7. Classic mix-up!