Whether you are hiking, backpacking or camping, it’s important that you are comfortable with your clothing. Your hiking clothes must fit the season, the terrain and the conditions you encounter on your hiking journey.
Properly chosen hiking outfit should breathe well, insulate you from the cold, protect you from the sunrays and dry quickly. Once it answers your basic needs, the hiking activity becomes as convenient and fun as possible.
In this article, I will summarize everything you need to know about hiking clothes, so that you will know exactly what to purchase for your next hiking trip. So, without any further ado, let’s get started.
Table of Contents
- How to Choose Hiking Clothes?
- A Closer Look at the Hiking Clothes
- Items and Accessories to Consider
- Final Words
How to Choose Hiking Clothes?
Select Clothes with Appropriate Fabrics
It’s likely that during hiking you’ll get wet, weather because of sweat, rain, or just by crossing a stream of water. That is why it is important that your clothes will be able to dry fast, leaving you dry and light just like before. When hiking, avoid wearing cotton clothes. Cotton tends to stay wet and hold moisture against the skin, which can lead to rashes, blisters, and even hypothermia at the worst case scenario.
The best clothes to wear are the ones that are made of synthetic or natural fibers. Clothes that are made of synthetic fibers (nylon and polyester) don’t leave moisture on your skin and are able to dry fast. They last for a long period of time, are light and not very expensive. The only disadvantage when it comes to synthetic fiber clothes is that they usually hold odors for longer periods of time, as compared to clothes that are made of natural fibers. The simple solution is to just wash them more frequently.
Clothes that are made of natural fibers (wool for example) are very common and popular among hikers. The main reason is that they can still keep you warm even if they get wet. For instance, merino wool is known for its ability to regulate the body heat during the hot summer days. This wool also resists bacteria, which helps staying fresh and odorless on lengthy hikes, especially if they take several days. The disadvantages of wool are that it may cause some people to feel itchy on their skin and body. It is also more expensive, and it’s less durable as compared to synthetic clothes.
Arrange Hiking Clothes in Layers
It’s recommended for hikers to have clothes that can be worn in layers. This ensures you’re kept warm at all times. The layers should also be breathable, of course. All the clothing should fit and work together in harmony in order to suit the environment and conditions. This means tops, bottoms, jackets, gloves, everything. Also make sure you have the best hiking hat to protect you from the weather.
Test How They Handle Dirt
During the hiking trip, you will probably wear some of the clothes over and over for the entire trip. That’s fine and is a part of hiking. Because of that, these clothes might gather dirt, dust and mud. To put it simply, don’t think about being dirty or smelly, you’re hiking in the wild and nature, so enjoy it the best you can. At the end, there’s always a good shower waiting for you. As for the clothes, see that they can be easily cleaned.
Pro tip: You can carry spare clean clothing if the dirt and grime bother you so much. The items you must carry as spares are usually underwear and socks. You can always rinse them and then let them dry during your trip. This is true for all types of hiking.
Try Mixing Hiking Clothes
It’s highly advisable to mix your hiking clothes. Think of your backpack as a small, portable wardrobe. Your hiking wardrobe has similar basic items that can be changed on a daily basis, as well as a few supplements that you wear or remove according to the seasons and conditions.
Always keep your hiking outfit collection layered, versatile and well-matched to your body.
Here is a great and detailed video from Kraig Adams who demonstrates the mixing aspect of hiking wardrobe:
Select Clothes According to Activity
When your hiking clothes fit the season, the terrain and the activities, your hiking experience gets noticeably upgraded. Thanks to the proper hiking clothing, you waste less energy and you are also kept safe, which is highly important during dangerous or challenging situations.
No matter what the weather is, whether it’s raining or hot, you are less affected by it as long as you are dressed accordingly. You are not struggling with the heat, the cold, the dampness, or the wind. In fact, correctly adjusted hiking clothes free you from the worries of facing unpleasant temperatures and conditions. Less worries mean a freer mind and a better hiking trip.
Pro tip: Plan your hiking trip ahead, check the weather forecast and find out what type of terrain you’re about to face. This way you won’t have to pack too much clothes, which might make your backpack unnecessarily bulky and heavy.
Choose the Right Clothes for Winter Hiking
When you are hiking during the winter, you must stay warm and dry, especially when the temperatures drop. It can get extremely cold at night, so prepare accordingly. And I’m not just talking about the clothing, you must make sure you have the appropriate shelter and a well-insulated sleeping bag. As for the clothing, here is what you should wear while hiking in the snow or rain:
- Tops and bottoms: Wear base layers of tops and bottoms, and on top of that wear clothes that protect you from the rain and snow.
- Pants: Long pants/rain pants.
- Rain jacket: To keep you warm and dry.
- Rain mitts/gloves: I recommend having more than one pair of fleece gloves. This way, you’ll be able to change gloves if the ones you’re wearing get wet.
- Fleece jacket: If it’s extremely cold, you can wear a lightweight fleece jacket to keep you warm, without adding extra weight to your body.
- Hat: Keeps your head warm and dry.
- Socks: I recommend wearing liner socks or socks that are made of wool, as they keep you warm even if they get wet.
- Sunglasses: If hiking during snow, always wear sunglasses, as they protect your eyes against snow blindness.
- Hiking boots: Your hiking boots should be light to medium when it comes to weight and feature snow gaiters. For more on this, read this important information on how to choose hiking boots.
Choose the Right Clothes for Fall and Spring Hiking
Fall and spring can still be rainy and chilly, especially during nighttime. I recommend having both summer clothing for nice and sunny days, but also warm and long-sleeve clothes. Of course, being constantly updated with the weather forecast is the smart thing to do, since you don’t want to pack and carry every possible piece of clothing. Basically, here is what you should wear if you decide to hike during these seasons:
- Top and bottoms: Base layer.
- Pants: Long hiking pants and rain pants (in case it may rain). For more specific information, see my article on hiking pants for women.
- Jacket: Fleece jacket should be sufficient, but in case of possible rain, bring a rain jacket as well.
- Gloves/mitts: Specifically, rain mitts.
- Socks: Wool socks are preferred during these seasons for warmth.
- Umbrella: This one is optional.
- Boots/running shoes: Know the terrain in order to fit your footwear. If you can use running shoes, that’s a great option as they are lighter and more convenient than hiking boots. On the other hand, if the terrain is challenging or you expect to come across snow or mud on your way and trail, choose hiking boots instead. There are lightweight boots as well.
Choose the Right Clothes for Summer Hiking
Summer is a great season for hiking, maybe the one that most hikers prefer, because the weather is usually warm and welcoming and everything is clear and in sight. So, what to wear during summer hikes?
- Shorts: In warm weather, go for shorts during the day. However, take a pair of long pants/hiking pants for nighttime when it may get a bit chilly.
- T-shirt: Same as pants, during the day when it’s warm, a t-shirt is a good choice, but have something with a long-sleeve for nighttime in case you’re hiking in the desert or other locations where temperature may drop when the sun sets.
- Jacket: If it may rain or get a bit cold. You can take a lightweight jacket, nothing too heavy.
- Socks: Hiking socks during the day and warm socks at night.
- Shoes: Running shoes. If you plan a long trip, consider having with you running gaiters as well.
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Gloves/mitts: Optional to keep your hands warm, in case it may get cold during the night or at the location you’re hiking.
Here is a very informative video that discusses summer hiking clothes and layering:
Prioritize Functionality Over Looks
Hiking clothes do not have to be the prettiest and most fashionable clothes you wear. In fact, many of them might seem dull, but this should no deter you. These clothes are meant to be worn while you’re performing a challenging physical activity.
Therefore, there is no need for them to be flashy. What’s important is that they are functional and they keep your body dry and at the right temperature.
Decide on Your Budget
While the prices for hiking clothes range from most affordable to most expensive, it is up to you to decide how much you wish to spend on them. However, there is one basic truth to keep in mind: am I sacrificing quality for the sake of saving a couple of dollars?
If you’re still unsure what to choose, as far as your budget goes, I did the hard work for you. The clothes I recommend below are both high-quality and quite affordable. Let’s take a look at them.
A Closer Look at the Hiking Clothes
In this section, I would like to elaborate more on the hiking items explained earlier. Remember, always carry the necessary clothes according to the season, weather, activity and terrain.
There is no need to take everything “just in case”, because you won’t use all of it. Caring too much clothing just makes a huge clutter inside your backpack, not to mention it’s not fun to carry a heavy bag with you. Your purpose is to enjoy the hiking/backpacking just with the items you truly need.
Now, let’s have a closer look at some recommended hiking clothes. All of them are linked to their pages on Amazon, where you can read more reviews and compare prices.
Short-Sleeve Shirts (Hiking T Shirts)
It’s fun to be able to hike with a short-sleeve shirt that is light and comfortable, but that’s usually occurs during the summer and when weather conditions allow it. So, the best short-sleeve shirts for hiking are the ones made of synthetic material that dries fast, or even wool shirts as they are considered to be very breathable shirts. It’s also important that the shirt is lightweight for ease and comfort.
The short sleeve hiking shirt also protects the shoulders from abrasions that the straps of the backpack can cause during hiking. Now, let’s have a look as some recommended hiking T Shirts.
INPRO Men’s UPF 50+ Wicking Tech Tee T Shirt
The fabric is ultra-breathable and dries fast thanks to the DryFit technology that keeps your skin dry and cool. It’s lightweight for ease and comfort, and also comes with two side pockets in case you want to store your keys or wallet there.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Amazon Essentials Women’s 2-Pack Tech Stretch T Shirt
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Long-Sleeve Shirts
A good option for a long-sleeve shirt is a button-down desert shirt or a zip-neck shirt. Desert shirts are known to be light, and you can wear them even if it’s extremely hot outside. They are great in protecting your skin from sunrays as well as from bugs and mosquitos.
As for a zip-neck shirt, you can wear it over a t-shirt in order to enjoy insulation. When the temperatures are low and it’s cold, wear the zip-neck shirt next to your skin. They are comfortable, and the zipper helps when it comes to ventilation.
Here are some recommended long-sleeve shirts for hiking.
Carhartt Men’s Force Tech Quarter-Zip Thermal Base Layer Long Sleeve Shirt
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
BALEAF Women’s Long Sleeve Shirt
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
BALEAF Men’s Long Sleeve Shirt
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Down and Puffer Jackets
A jacket is a clothing you should consider packing, even during the summer. It goes without saying that during the winter and autumn seasons it is cold, but even the summer nights or early mornings can get a bit chilly, especially if you’re hiking in the desert or the mountains. So, here are some recommended jackets to keep you warm, no matter the season.
Eddie Bauer Men’s CirrusLite Down Jacket
The jacket is ultralight, versatile, and packable, so if you’re not using it, simply compress and store it into the included pouch. It is also water-resistant thanks to the StormRepel finish that sheds moisture, not allowing it to soak into the jacket’s fabric. It also features two hand pockets and an interior pocket for your keys, phone, wallet or other essentials.
The jacket is available in 5 different colors (black, green, dark smoke heather, blue, red).
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Amazon Essentials Men’s Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Puffer Jacket
The jacket also comes with zip pockets and a zipper closure, and when you’re not using it, you can easily pack it into the carrying bag that is included. Machine-wash safe and available in 13 different colors.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Orolay Women’s Thickened Down Jacket
The hood of the jacket comes with extra soft lining to keep your head warm, ribbed knit cuffs protecting your hands from the wind and cold, and extended sides that allow you to unzip and move around freely.
The jacket also comes with 6 big pockets and is available in 13 different colors.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Rain Jackets
During your hikes, you may encounter rain, so it’s always good to have a rain jacket with you to keep you dry and warm. A good rain jacket for hiking is a light jacket with a hood and that is waterproof. I recommend getting a rain jacket with good ventilation and materials that are breathable, because you will get warm and sweat during the hike.
Rain jackets are ideal when conditions are cold and/or wet. So, here are some recommended rain jackets.
Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket
The sleeve cuffs are adjustable and a drawcord allows you to lock the dry and keep away the wet. It features a zipper closure, hand pockets and when you’re done using it, simply pack it into its own chest-pocket.
This rain jacket is built to last for long, machine washable and is available in 32 different colors.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
MOERDENG Men’s Lightweight Windbreaker Rain Jacket
This jacket is lightweight and the front chest features breathable vents to keep you cool during activities. This is the ultimate jacket for any outdoor activity even when it’s cold or wet outside. Great for hiking, camping, climbing, riding, mountaineering and more.
It also comes with built-in pockets and is available in 4 different colors.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Columbia Women’s Arcadia Jacket II Coat
Columbia is proud in its Omni-Tech technology, which makes the jacket both breathable and waterproof, keeping you dry, warm and comfortable to keep on moving and hiking. According to the company, this jacket is ideal for light-winter, fall and spring.
The jacket is lightweight, and it also features an adjustable storm hood and hand pockets that can be zipped, velcro adjustable cuffs and adjustable hem for complete comfort even in wet conditions.
When you’re done using it or if it’s not needed, simply pack and store it in your hand pocket. If it gets dirty, you can clean it using the washing machine with no worries. Available in 32 different colors.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Fleece Jackets
A fleece jacket can keep you warm during cold and wet conditions as well. It’s lighter and more comfortable to wear than a rain jacket, and so it’s more convenient for freer movement and warmth when it’s cold and wet outside, yet not raining. If venting is important to you, then go for a light-mid-weight fleece jacket that comes with a neck zip.
Here are some recommended fleece jackets for hiking.
Columbia Men’s Steens Mountain Full Zip 2.0 Fleece
The fleece jacket is lightweight and features two side pockets that can be zipped. It is safe to clean it in the washing machine and available in 29 different colors.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Amazon Essentials Men’s Full-Zip Polar Fleece Jacket
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Columbia Women’s Benton Springs Full Zip Fleece Jacket
You can safely clean and wash it in the washing machine and it’s available in 39 different colors.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Hiking Shorts
Whenever the weather allows it (and there are not too many bugs and mosquitos to bite you), you can wear a pair of shorts for your hiking trip. It’s recommended that the shorts will feature a quick-dry technology to keep you dry and light, and that the waistband is comfortable and not too tight. Running shorts are also a good option when it comes to hiking, as they are also known for their breathability, light weight and comfort. Here are some recommended hiking shorts.
XKTTAC Men’s Outdoor Quick Dry Lightweight Stretchy Shorts
They are also water-resistant and feature reflective strips (important during nighttime or early in the morning), YKK zipper, belt loop and 6 pockets (4 big and deep side zipper pockets and 2 front pockets).
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
FREE SOLDIER Men’s Cargo Shorts
The shorts are made of 89% nylon and 11% spandex. They are light, flexible for maximum movement and comfort and dry fast as well. The waterproof coating is able to block liquid and stains and they also provide protection from harmful sunrays (UPF 50+).
The fabric is four-ways stretch and very flexible and they come with a tactical belt that is removable. The buckle closure is also convenient and flexible so you can adjust the waistline as you wish. They also come with two slash pockets with COOLMAX mesh lining, and two large YKK zipper cargo pockets. In these large pockets, you can easily store a notebook or iPad and other large items. If that’s not enough, there are also two more hip flat pockets with hook&loop.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
MIER Women’s Stretchy Hiking Shorts
The shorts are 4-way stretching so you can adjust them accordingly to your needs and are lightweight for easy and fast moving during hiking, climbing and any other outdoor activity. They also come with 6 pockets (2 thigh pockets, 2 rear pockets which are secured by a durable zipper, and 2 slant pockets on the front which are deep and wide).
Overall, these are amazing shorts that are made exactly for the purposes of hiking and outdoor experience.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Hiking Pants
Whenever the temperature outside is chilly, the terrain is a bit challenging, or you need to protect your legs from the scorching sun or mosquito bites, you’ll most probably wear hiking pants. It is recommended that the hiking pants you choose will be lightweight, breathable, tightly woven, capable of drying fast, and made of nylon or polyester.
So, let’s have a look at some recommended hiking pants.
CQR Men’s Tactical Pants
They are very comfortable as the waistband is elastic. Need to take important items with you? These pants have enough pockets to store everything you need. These hiking pants come with 8 multi-purpose cargo pockets, including a mag pocket and a Velcro flap back pocket that is deep and big, and easily accessible even if you’re wearing gloves.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Wespornow Men’s-Convertible-Hiking-Pants
They are made of 90% polyester and 10% spandex, lightweight, featuring ergonomic and elastic design as well as gusseted crotch, and 4-way stretch for maximum flexibility and easy movement. The reinforced design provides high durability and comfort no matter the activity. The material is breathable, skin-friendly, wear-resistant, dries fast in only 3 minutes, and even resistant to sense.
The design is really cool. You can wear them as long pants, capris pants (roll-up legs that convert pants to capris pants) or as shorts by converting the pants to hiking shorts. If you prefer, you can even tighten the leg area (at the bottom, near the boots).
The pants also feature 5 pockets (2 front, 2 side, 1 rear with a zip-close) to carry everything you need, from small to big items, including a 6.5” phone.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
MOCOLY Women’s Cargo Hiking Pants
The fabric also provides protection from the sunrays (UPF 50+) and the waistband is adjustable using a drawstring. They too feature a 4-way stretchy fabric, so you’ll be able to adjust and fit the pants any way you choose.
The pants come with deep side and back zipper pockets that can store even a 5.5” phone, as well as an adjustable cord lock around the cuffs. This helps keep the bugs out during hiking and also make the pants hem freely for better movement and convenience.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Rain Pants
Rain pants are optional, but I thought to add it as well for your consideration. It’s recommended that the rain pants are lightweight and, of course, waterproof. If you wish to put them on and take them off without the need to remove your boots or shoes first, then look for rain pants that feature side zippers. Rain pants are ideal for hiking during rainy, cold, wet and windy weather and conditions.
Here are some recommended rain pants for hiking.
TBMPOY Men’s Outdoor Quick-Dry Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Mountain Pants
Now that you are protected from water and wind, you should also know that these pants (thick pants design) come with a fleece lining, helping the body to stay warm even during outdoor activities in cold weather.
The pants come with a belt and feature an adjustable waistband for complete comforte. On top of that, there’s also the cool flexible knee design, allowing you to stretch and move freely during any activity.
As for pockets, these pants feature 2 thigh zipper pockets, 2 side zipper pockets and 1 rear pocket.
There are two designs available, thin and thick:
- Thin design: Perfect for activities like hiking, camping, mountain climbing, fishing, parachuting, climbing, and more. It’s best to wear them during the spring, summer and autumn.
- Thick design: Great for activities in like winter hiking, mountain skiing, ice skating, snowboarding, ice fishing, and more. They are best used during the winter.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Columbia Storm Women’s Surge Waterproof Rain Pants
The fabric is breathable, so nature’s elements are kept outside and your legs and body are kept dry and warm. The closure is easy, convenient and elastic, which is most important. When you’re back home, simply toss them to the washing machine for cleanup, as they are washing-machine safe.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Hiking Socks
Not all socks are ideal for hiking. The best socks for hiking are those that are made of wool that dries quickly, or synthetic hiking socks. If conditions are wet or it’s rainy, I recommend to wear (and bring extra) tick wool socks. This way, your feet will stay warm even when it’s wet, and you will also be able to dry your shoes in case they got wet from rain or from crossing a water stream.
Tip: Take with you at least one pair of thick wool socks. Make sure that they are dry and clean. You may want to wear them at the campsite when the nights are cold. These will be your sleeping socks.
Here are some recommended hiking socks.
DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Hiking & Walking Socks
The natural thermo regulation of the merino wool blend makes sure that your feet are warm during winter hikes, yet remain fresh during the summer. They also feature anti-blister cushioning and ergonomic design, which makes them very comfortable even for long and challenging walks and hikes.
These socks are unisex and are perfect for hiking, backpacking, trekking, outdoor adventures, and more. Their cushioning also makes them comfortable even while wearing them with work boots and not just hiking boots.
Available in many sizes, including men, women and children and come in 6 different colors to choose from.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Dickies Men’s Dri-tech Moisture Control Crew Socks
The socks feature a Dri-tech Moisture Control which keeps your feet dry, cool, and comfortable throughout the entire day by wicking sweat and moisture off your feet and also allow ventilation channels for air circulation, air flow and breath-ability. The socks fit perfectly to your feet thanks to the Arch compression feature, which provides added support and stability. You also enjoy durable and reinforced toe and heel.
The socks are available in more than 20 different colors to choose from.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
EnerWear Women’s Merino Wool Outdoor Hiking
- The top of the socks is engineered so it won’t fall during walk, yet won’t apply pressure on your feet.
- Your feet are kept dry and cool all day long thanks to breathability and ventilation zone that improves the air circulation.
- Max cushioning of the socks reduces foot pain in areas of high pressure, especially during intense and sports activities.
- Ankle arch keeps the socks comfortable and in place of your feet even during long and challenging hikes and activities.
- Heel and toe are reinforced for high durability.
- Odor control.
I’d say that says it all when it comes to good hiking socks and these are worth mentioning in this article. Available in 13 different colors.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Hiking Boots and Hiking Shoes
When choosing hiking boots or hiking shoes, consider the following factors:
- Season and weather
- Terrain and conditions
- Weight of backpack (if you’re planning to take more than one pair or carry them on you)
- Your own needs and preferences.
Because hiking boots are crucial for your hiking trip, I recommend you read my article about how to choose hiking boots, where I also recommend some of the best hiking boots you can get:
- Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots – waterproof and with excellent cushioning
- Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Backpacking Boots – tough, yet highly comfortable
- Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots – light and ideal for backpackers
Hiking Gloves
Gloves are important to keep your hands both warm and safe from the elements and the environment. They are essential if you wish to survive extreme cold weather. You don’t want your hands to freeze or even risk injuries due to cold weather and possible cuts during the hike. This is also why gloves are necessary for survival. Here are some great and functional gloves to consider for your next hike.
Under Armour Men’s Liner 2.0 Gloves
The fabric is ultra-soft with an exterior that is smooth exterior and a plush interior, keeping your hands warm. In case you need to use a touch screen, there’s no need to take them off, thanks to the Tech Touch technology.
Safe to be cleaned in the washing machine and available in 5 different colors.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Achiou Winter Knit Gloves
The gloves are breathable, so they ventilate and decrease accumulation of sweat, keeping your hands both dry and warm. When you wish to clean them, do it by hand in warm water and with mild detergent. Available in 6 different colors.
Click here to read more reviews and compare prices.
Items and Accessories to Consider
In this article, I’ve talked about hiking clothes, but now I would like to list a few items and accessories that you may consider as well for your next hike. Some of the items listed below are ideal for hiking, while others can be used for camping and backpacking. I recommend that you read the essential camping list I posted, as well as my article on what to bring on your next hiking trip. This way you will be 100% prepared before your next trip.
- Hat/fleece beanie: It’s a good idea to wear a hat during the summer or warm days, and a fleece beanie when it’s chilly or cold.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from sunrays and see the road more easily.
- Sunscreen: Protection from harmful sunrays.
- Bug/mosquito spray: Protect yourself against bites.
- Sleeping bag: You can read my article about how to choose a sleeping bag where I elaborate everything on the topic.
- Tent: Read my article about best camping tents to know how to choose the best tent for your needs.
Final Words
So there you have it, the complete guide to hiking outfit. Hopefully you are now more prepared for your next hiking adventure, and you know for sure what to wear.
Naturally, hiking clothes are not the only thing you need to know about hiking. If you plan to hike alone, I would advise to read a list of great tips on hiking solo. You also need to learn what the right amount of water to drink while hiking is. Additionally, I also wrote a post that teaches a few important survival skills in the wilderness, in case you encounter a challenging situation during your hike.
Happy trails!
