Are you planning your first hiking trip and wondering what to wear? Well, you're not alone! Dressing appropriately for a hike is not only essential for comfort, but also for safety. Whether you're hitting a nearby trail or venturing into the wilderness, your clothing can make or break your outdoor experience. So, before you start packing your backpack, let's dive into the world of hiking attire and explore what to wear when hiking. This beginner's guide will provide you with all the information you need to dress for success on the trails.
Warm Weather Hiking
As much as you might be excited to bask in the sunshine and soak up the views, it's crucial to choose the right clothing to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Hiking in hot weather can be challenging, and you don't want to be caught off-guard with the wrong attire. From protecting your skin from the sun to regulating your body temperature, there are a few key factors to keep in mind when selecting what to wear for a summer hike. So, let's dive in and explore how to dress for success on the trails when the temperature rises.
Hat
When hiking in the summer, it's essential to protect your head and face from the sun's rays. A wide-brimmed hat or a cap with a visor is an excellent choice to shield your eyes from glare and prevent sunburn on your face and neck. Look for hats made of lightweight and breathable fabrics, such as nylon or polyester, that wick away sweat and allow air to circulate. A bandana or a buff can also come in handy to keep your hair off your face and protect your neck from the sun. Additionally, consider choosing a hat with a chin strap to keep it secure during windy conditions or if you're scrambling up steep trails.
Sunglasses
The correct eyewear is essential to protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays and reduce glare. Sunglasses with UV protection are a must-have for any hiking trip in sunny weather. Look for sunglasses that provide 100% protection from UVA and UVB rays and have polarized lenses that reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water or snow. Wrap-around sunglasses are also a good option as they provide extra coverage and prevent light from entering your eyes from the sides. If you're hiking in high altitudes or snow-covered trails, you may want to consider wearing glacier glasses that have side shields to block out even more light. Additionally, consider using a retainer strap or leash to secure your sunglasses to your head, so they don't fall off during the hike.
Top
It's essential to choose a top or shirt that is lightweight, breathable, and wicks away sweat. Look for shirts made of synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, or spandex, that dry quickly and don't retain moisture. Avoid cotton as it can absorb sweat and stay damp, making you feel clammy and uncomfortable. Consider wearing a shirt with a loose fit that allows air to circulate and keeps you cool. A sleeveless or short-sleeve shirt is ideal for hot weather as it allows your arms to move freely and helps prevent overheating. Finally, if you're hiking in a sunny area, choose a shirt with a UPF rating to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. A long-sleeve shirt with a UPF rating can also provide extra sun protection for your arms without making you feel too hot.
Pants/Shorts
Choose pants or shorts that are lightweight, breathable, and provide freedom of movement. Look for pants or shorts made from synthetic materials like nylon or polyester that wick away sweat and dry quickly. These fabrics are also durable and can withstand the wear and tear of hiking. Avoid cotton as it can absorb sweat and moisture, making you feel uncomfortable and clammy.
Shorts are a popular choice for hiking in hot weather as they allow your legs to breathe and keep you cool. Look for shorts that have a comfortable fit and are not too tight or too loose. Hiking shorts with built-in briefs can also help prevent chafing and provide extra support. If you prefer wearing pants, consider choosing convertible pants with zip-off legs that can convert into shorts. This can give you the best of both worlds and allow you to adapt to different temperature changes throughout the day. Finally, make sure to choose pants or shorts with a UPF rating to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
Socks
When hiking in the summer, it's important to choose socks that are breathable, moisture-wicking, and comfortable. Look for socks made from synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, or spandex that are designed for outdoor activities. These fabrics wick away moisture from your feet, keeping them dry and preventing blisters.
Choose socks that are specifically designed for hiking and have cushioning in the soles to absorb impact and reduce pressure points. Consider buying socks with a high ankle height that cover the top of your hiking boots to prevent debris and dirt from getting inside your shoes. Merino wool is also a great option for summer hiking socks as it is naturally moisture-wicking and helps regulate your body temperature, keeping your feet cool and dry.
Avoid wearing cotton socks as they retain moisture and can cause blisters and discomfort. Also, make sure to choose socks that fit well and don't bunch or slide around in your shoes. A good pair of socks can make all the difference in preventing blisters and keeping your feet comfortable on a long hike.
Shoes/Boots
It's important to choose boots or shoes that are comfortable, durable, and provide good traction. Look for footwear made of breathable materials that allow your feet to breathe and prevent them from overheating. Hiking shoes or low-cut hiking boots are ideal for hiking in the summer as they offer more breathability and flexibility compared to higher-cut boots.
Choose shoes that fit well and are not too tight or too loose. Make sure the shoes provide ample arch and ankle support to prevent injuries and help you maintain stability on rough terrain. Consider wearing shoes with a sturdy, lugged outsole that provides good traction on both wet and dry surfaces.
If you're planning on hiking on rocky or uneven terrain, choose shoes with a protective toe cap to prevent stubbed toes and injury. Finally, make sure to break in your shoes before you go hiking to ensure they are comfortable and won't cause blisters or other foot injuries.
Extra Layer
Always carry an extra layer in case the weather changes or you end yourself staying outside longer than anticipated. A fleece jacket or top should work throughout the summer. Although it is light and breathable, it will keep you warm if required.
In the event that the weather changes, a wind or water-resistant covering might be really helpful. Raincoats often pack down very small, making them simple to transport. There is no justification for not include a rain jacket in your hiking kit as they may also be utilised as an outer layer for trekking in cooler weather.
Cold Weather Hiking
Are you gearing up for a winter hiking adventure? While the colder temperatures and snowy landscapes may seem daunting, with the right clothing and gear, you can enjoy the great outdoors all year round. However, choosing the correct clothing for winter hiking is crucial for your safety and comfort. From keeping warm and dry to protecting yourself from frostbite, there are several factors to consider when selecting what to wear for a winter hike. So, before you hit the trails, let's dive into the world of winter hiking attire and explore how to dress for success in cold weather.
Hat
When hiking in the winter, your headwear should aim to keep you warm and protect your face and ears from the cold. A warm beanie or a fleece-lined hat made from materials like wool or synthetic fibres can trap heat and keep your head and ears toasty. Look for hats that fully cover your ears, especially if you're prone to earaches or frostbite. You may also want to consider a balaclava, which is a type of headwear that covers your entire head and neck except for your eyes, nose, and mouth. A balaclava can provide extra warmth and wind protection, and you can easily pull it down when you need to eat or drink. Finally, if you're hiking in snowy or windy conditions, a waterproof hat or a hat with a brim can help keep snow and rain out of your eyes and face.
Eyewear
In the winter, the correct eyewear is important to protect your eyes from snow glare and harmful UV rays. Snow and ice can reflect up to 80% of the sun's rays, which can be damaging to your eyes. Therefore, it's crucial to wear sunglasses that provide 100% protection from UVA and UVB rays and have polarized lenses to reduce glare. Wrap-around sunglasses with large lenses are a great option as they provide extra coverage and help block out peripheral light. If you're hiking in snowy conditions or high altitudes, you may also want to consider wearing ski goggles, which offer full protection against the sun, wind, and snow. Ski goggles can help keep your face warm, prevent snow from getting in your eyes, and improve your visibility in low-light conditions. Choose goggles with interchangeable lenses so that you can swap them out depending on the weather and lighting conditions.
Base Layer
A good base layer is essential for keeping you warm and dry. The base layer is the layer of clothing closest to your skin, so it's important to choose a material that wicks away moisture to prevent sweat from accumulating and making you feel cold. Merino wool, synthetic fabrics like polyester, and silk are all excellent options for base layers.
Look for a base layer that fits snugly but doesn't restrict your movement, as tight-fitting clothes can compress the insulation and make you feel colder. A long-sleeve shirt and pants made of a moisture-wicking material can keep you warm and dry, and you can layer on top of them with additional clothing depending on the weather conditions. Additionally, consider wearing a lightweight fleece layer over your base layer for extra warmth and insulation. Avoid cotton as a base layer as it can absorb sweat and take a long time to dry, making you feel cold and damp.
Mid Layer
A mid-layer is essential for providing additional insulation and warmth. A mid-layer is worn over your base layer and under your outer layer, and it should be made of materials that are both warm and breathable. Popular materials for mid-layers include fleece, wool, down, and synthetic fabrics.
Fleece is a popular choice for mid-layers as it is lightweight, breathable, and provides excellent insulation. Wool is also a good option as it's naturally warm and insulating, even when wet. Down jackets and vests are incredibly warm and lightweight, but they can be expensive and may not be the best choice if you'll be hiking in wet or damp conditions.
When choosing a mid-layer, look for a garment that fits well and is not too tight or too loose. A snug fit will keep the insulation close to your body and prevent drafts, while still allowing for a full range of motion. A zippered jacket or vest can also provide extra ventilation if you start to feel too warm. Finally, make sure the mid-layer is compatible with your outer layer and won't restrict your movement or add too much bulk.
Outer Layer / Shell
Choose an outer layer or shell that will protect you from the elements such as wind, snow, and rain. Look for an outer layer that is both waterproof and breathable to keep you dry and prevent overheating.
Gore-Tex is a popular material for winter outer layers as it is waterproof and breathable. Other materials like Futurelight, eVent, H2No, and DryVent are also popular choices. A good winter shell should have a hood to protect your head and neck from the wind and precipitation. The shell should also have adjustable cuffs and a hem to help seal out cold air and snow.
When choosing an outer layer, make sure it is large enough to accommodate your other layers underneath. Also, consider features like pit zips or ventilation to help regulate your body temperature and prevent overheating. Look for a shell that is durable and will hold up to the rigours of winter hiking. Finally, choose a colour that is visible in low light conditions, like bright red, orange, or yellow, to increase your visibility and safety in case of an emergency.
Pants
Here we are looking for pants that will keep you warm and dry. Look for pants made of materials that are waterproof, windproof, and insulated.
Winter hiking pants should fit well and be comfortable to wear. Consider pants that have adjustable waistbands and cuffs to help keep out cold air and snow. Look for pants that have reinforced knees and seat to provide extra durability and protection when sitting or kneeling in the snow. Insulated pants are great for winter hiking as they will keep you warm, but also make sure that they are breathable enough to prevent overheating.
Another option is to wear a base layer underneath your hiking pants for additional warmth. Thermal tights or leggings made of wool or synthetic materials are a good choice for a base layer. These materials will wick moisture away from your body and help regulate your temperature.
Finally, consider the terrain you'll be hiking in when choosing winter hiking pants. If you'll be hiking in deep snow, look for pants that have gaiters or built-in snow cuffs to help keep snow out of your boots. If you'll be hiking in rocky or uneven terrain, choose pants that offer plenty of mobility and flexibility.
Socks
Look for socks made of materials that are warm, moisture-wicking, and breathable. Merino wool, synthetic materials, and blends of the two are all good choices for winter hiking socks.
Winter hiking socks should fit well and be comfortable to wear. Consider socks that have extra cushioning in the heel and toe areas for additional warmth and protection. Socks that are slightly taller than your hiking boots can also help provide extra coverage and warmth. Look for socks that are seamless and have flat stitching to prevent chafing and blisters.
It's a good idea to bring an extra pair of socks with you on your winter hike, in case your feet get wet or your socks get sweaty. If your socks do get wet, take them off and let them dry out. Wearing wet socks can cause your feet to get colder and increase your risk of frostbite.
Choose socks that are appropriate for the temperature and conditions you'll be hiking in. If you'll be hiking in very cold temperatures or deep snow, consider thicker socks with a higher percentage of wool. If you'll be hiking in wet conditions, consider socks that are made of materials that dry quickly.
Boots
Look for boots that are insulated, waterproof, and have good traction. Boots with a Gore-Tex or similar waterproof membrane are a good choice for winter hiking as they will keep your feet dry even in wet and slushy conditions.
Winter hiking boots should fit well and be comfortable to wear. Consider boots that are slightly larger than your regular shoe size, to allow room for extra socks or a base layer. Look for boots with good ankle support and a stiff sole to provide stability on slippery or uneven terrain. Insulated boots are great for winter hiking as they will keep your feet warm even in very cold temperatures.
It's important to break in your winter hiking boots before hitting the trails. Wear them around the house or on short walks to help them mould to your feet and prevent blisters.
Also consider the type of terrain you'll be hiking on when choosing winter hiking boots. If you'll be hiking in deep snow, consider boots with a higher shaft to help keep snow out. If you'll be hiking on icy or rocky terrain, look for boots with aggressive tread to provide traction. And if you'll be snowshoeing, make sure your boots have a wide toe box to accommodate the larger size of snowshoe bindings.
Gloves
Winter hiking gloves should fit well and be comfortable to wear. Consider gloves that are slightly larger than your regular glove size, to allow room for extra layers or liners. Look for gloves that have good insulation and padding in the palms and fingers to provide warmth and protection from the cold.
It's a good idea to bring an extra pair of gloves with you on your winter hike, in case your gloves get wet or you need to switch to a different type of glove. Thin liner gloves are a great option for adding an extra layer of warmth or protection, and can be worn under thicker gloves.
If you'll be snowshoeing or using trekking poles, look for gloves that have grip on the palms and fingers to help with traction. If you'll be doing activities that require dexterity, such as using a camera or phone, consider gloves that have touch screen compatibility. And if you'll be hiking in very cold temperatures, consider mittens or gloves with a removable liner for extra warmth.
By now, you should have a good idea of the key items to consider when choosing clothing for your next hiking trip. Remember, the right clothing can make all the difference in your comfort and safety on the trail. Whether you're hiking in the summer or winter, it's important to choose clothing that is appropriate for the weather, activity, and terrain. By following the tips in this guide, you can ensure that you're prepared for your next adventure and ready to take on whatever nature has in store. So go ahead, grab your gear, and hit the trail with confidence!