What to Wear Hiking From Head to Toe

Tips on What to Wear on Hiking

If you’re gearing up to head out on a hike, you certainly want to make sure you have all the right equipment, such as the proper backpack, maps, and other gear — but if you don’t also wear the right clothes, your trip will quickly become an uncomfortable experience.

Wearing the right hiking clothes means knowing the type of trail you’ll be on, what the temperature and climate will be, and how long you’ll be outdoors. So before you get dressed, take these factors into consideration to make your decisions accordingly,

Source — Ems.com

Starting at the Top – What to wear on your Head

What you have on your head is going to depend on what time of year it is.

During the summer you are going to want to have sun protection. Your best bet is to get a wide brim hat. This is one of those things.

During the winter, or during colder days you are going to want something to protect your face from the elements. This can either be a toque (beanie) or buff or a combination of both.

You will also want some eye protection. Even during winter, the sun can reflect into or eyes causing damage. This is especially true at higher elevations where there is a higher concentration of UV rays.

Source — Explorilia.com

Clothing Strategies

If you’re ready to think about your hiking outfit more holistically, then you can shop with the following strategies in mind

Base Layer – Undershirt

This is the layer that touches your skin, and there are two extremely important factors at play. How comfortable it feels, and how well it allows moisture to pass through to the outer layers.

Consider the following advice on fabrics:

Cotton

Cotton doesn’t breathe and is probably the worst fabric you could choose for hiking. If cotton gets wet, it is cold and clammy, and will not dry. In cold conditions, you’re looking at a great recipe for hypothermia. Just don’t go there.

“Regular” Wool

Wool will keep you warm but is heavy and slow to dry when wet. Think of the classic fisherman’s jumper. It can be a bit itchy scratchy too, especially right next to the skin. Perhaps not great for a base layer. But see below…..

Merino Wool

Merino Sheep are originally from the UK and are the mainstay of the Australian and New Zealand wool industry. Walking clothes made from merino are totally different from those made from “regular” wool. Here’s why….

Fine Fibres

Making garments luxuriously soft to the touch.

Moisture-wicking

Absorbs sweat & vapour, and allows the moisture to evaporate, keeping you nice and cosy.

Temperature control

It helps you stay cool in the heat, and warm in the cold.

Smell free

Unlike synthetics, for example, Merino won’t smell after you’ve been wearing it for a few days.

Wonder fabric

And finally, it’s static-free, wrinkle resistant and flame retardant! If you were going to invent a fabric that’s perfect for hiking, this is actually what you would create.

If you can afford it, buy Merino – eg look for brands like Icebreaker (NZ), Merino Country (Australia), etc. Many outdoor stores have their own brands too. My personal preference: a short-sleeved merino T-shirt.

However, keep in mind where you will be walking. In some parts of Australia, at certain times of the year, a merino base layer will be way too hot. See below for alternatives.

Synthetics

If you can’t afford merino, then synthetic is the way to go. Synthetics such as polyester are generally quick to dry, lightweight, breathable and good at keeping you warm. Mixes of synthetics and merino may also be available.

Mid Layer – Trekking shirt

If it’s a bit cool, but not quite cool enough to walk wearing a jumper or fleece on top of your base layer, you could wear a trekking shirt.

Or, if walking in warm sunny conditions, which can often be the case in Australia, we recommend a trekking shirt without a base layer.

Look for synthetic blends that are good for wicking moisture away from your skin, have good UV protection ratings, and good ventilation. Long sleeves will give you more protection from the sun, or roll those sleeves up halfway for the best of both worlds. A high collar will protect your neck from the sun too.

Source — Auswalk.com.au

Pants and Shorts

The decision to wear hiking pants or shorts is up to you, so let’s look at the pros and cons of both. Shorts give you ultimate freedom and are also cooler than pants, so if you’re going on a low-altitude summer hike, you’ll most likely be in good shape.

Pants, which should be made of durable, quick-drying fabrics such as spandex or nylon (just as with your upper body, be sure to avoid cotton), should be worn if you expect any drop in temperature or heavy vegetation along the trail. Wearing pants keeps your legs protected from hazards such as poison ivy or other allergenic plants, and keeps you warmer when the temperature drops as you gain elevation.

Source — Ems.com

Boots and Socks

There are as many different kinds of hiking boots as there are trails out there, but whatever you choose, you’ll need to make sure your footwear is durable, comfortable, and appropriate for the conditions. If the trail is excessively wet or muddy, consider boots with Gore-Tex or another waterproof material to keep your feet drier. If the trail is very rocky, such as you may find in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, pick boots that come up slightly higher on the ankle for increased support.

Of course, when it comes to footwear, the fit is everything. The wrong boots could leave your feet aching and give you serious blisters. Get with experts like the Foot Gurus at Eastern Mountain Sports to find the perfect-fitting footwear.

But the best boots must be complemented by the right socks. The best socks, like other garments, are made of wool or synthetic materials that dry fast and let your feet and toes breathe.

Source — Ems.com