It is important not to head out hiking without wearing the right clothing. Depending on the environment you will be moving through, you may need specific gear to stay protected, feel comfortable and avoid taking risks. To make the best choice, it is essential to check the forecast before you leave and anticipate bad weather. This is all the more true in the mountains, where conditions are often unstable. Find out below how to choose your hiking clothing.
Choosing upper body clothing
Choosing clothing for hiking may seem more complicated than it actually is. By following certain tips such as the three-layer system, you will be comfortable in your clothing and neither too hot nor too cold on the trail.
The first layer helps wick away perspiration and regulate your body temperature: it is typically a t-shirt in synthetic fibre or merino wool. We recommend avoiding cotton clothing, which absorbs moisture and takes a long time to dry. The second layer is insulating and keeps the body warm. We recommend fleece garments, which fulfil this role perfectly. Finally, the third layer protects against the elements (wind, rain, snow…). You can opt for a windproof jacket or a waterproof and breathable jacket.
To be prepared for all eventualities, you can bring a rain poncho in addition to your windproof jacket. It takes up little space and ensures you are never caught off guard by sudden showers.
Choosing lower body clothing
To choose your lower body clothing, you need to check the forecast. The choice will depend on the temperature, the difficulty of the hike and the natural environment you will be moving through (tall grass, brambles, meadows…). You can therefore opt for hiking trousers, breathable shorts, three-quarter length trousers or sports leggings.
During summer, you can wear shorts to avoid overheating or lightweight trousers for UV protection. In winter or during the shoulder season, the best option is to go for full-length trousers, which can be fleece-lined or brushed on the inside to keep the cold at bay. Finally, a good alternative is convertible trousers that can be turned into shorts depending on the heat and environment.
For fabric choice, hiking trousers are often made from synthetic fibres to be lighter, wick moisture more effectively and dry quickly. If you expect to face rain, choose trousers with a waterproof membrane.
The key is that your outfit should be fitted enough to allow you to move freely without being too tight. This prevents your skin from rubbing against the fabric and becoming uncomfortable. Another criterion to consider is pockets. If you are setting off on a multi-day mountain trek, having pockets is almost essential. They allow you to keep the items you need within easy reach.
Protecting the body's extremities
Finally, it is important not to neglect the extremities of your body, whatever time of year you head out hiking. In summer, protect your head with a hat or cap. You can also bring ultralight gloves with anti-UV treatment to protect against the sun, particularly at high altitude. In winter, a beanie, thicker gloves and a neck warmer are essential to avoid catching cold. Body heat escapes largely through the extremities.
For sock choice, in summer as in winter, opt for socks designed for hiking: you will avoid blisters, improve your comfort and manage moisture far better than with standard cotton socks.
As you will have gathered, there is every reason not to wear everyday clothing for hiking. It is better to prioritise clothing specifically designed for hiking — lightweight, comfortable, breathable and versatile.
