The right outfit lets you make the most of your hike. To know how to dress, several factors need to be taken into account: the climate, weather conditions, the environment you'll be moving through, and the type of activity you'll be doing. All these factors will influence how you dress. They will help you make the right choice when selecting the best hiking outfit.
The best outfit for each weather condition
Depending on whether you face cold, heat, rain or wind, your hiking outfit will vary. If you hike in cold weather, in winter or at altitude, your goal is to layer up with insulating and breathable clothing. In this case, a merino thermal base layer, a fleece or down jacket, a softshell or hardshell jacket with a windproof membrane, and a lined or brushed trouser will be ideal. These garments will provide solid protection against cold and wind.
If you hike in warm weather, the best outfit should above all be lightweight and breathable. A technical synthetic t-shirt, a simple windproof jacket and a pair of shorts or lightweight convertible trousers should do the trick. Don't forget to protect yourself from UV rays with a hat or cap.
Finally, if you hike in rainy weather, a jacket or rain cape with excellent waterproofing is essential. As are overtrousers or gaiters to protect your footwear from the rain.
The best outfit for each activity type
The best hiking outfit is the one most suited to the activity. A hiking outfit will generally consist of one to three layers on the upper body: a t-shirt, fleece or down jacket, plus a protective outer layer depending on the weather. The lower body consists of an outdoor trouser. This outfit keeps you protected from the elements while remaining warm enough and breathable to manage perspiration.
Ski touring sits between hiking and mountaineering. The clothing required is technical and needs to be breathable, insulating, protective and lightweight all at once. Technical base layers and gloves are essential. For the jacket, a softshell offers outstanding breathability and is ideal for the ascent. A waterproof jacket is essential, however, if conditions are unfavourable (rain or snow). It will be better suited to the descent.
Other activities such as Nordic walking require less equipment. Running tights or shorts, a technical t-shirt and walking socks are sufficient. In this case, focus on lightweight, breathable and comfortable garments that do not restrict your movement.
The best outfit for each activity duration
Setting aside the type of activity, duration will strongly influence your choice of outfit. A multi-day mountain trek requires far more preparation than a simple walk in the lowlands. The longer the activity, the more you need to choose clothing that adapts to all conditions.
If you're heading out on a hike lasting anywhere from a few days to several weeks, plan for both spare clothing (the quantity will vary depending on duration, difficulty and weather conditions) and robust clothing (waterproof, windproof, warm, lightweight).
Bear in mind that the best hiking outfit adapts perfectly to all your needs. It should keep you as comfortable as possible throughout the duration of your hike. It is adaptable and varies according to how you feel and what you need.
