Depending on the type of hiking activity, your equipment and clothing will vary. Some activities require more technical, durable and insulating clothing than others, which will prioritise lightness, comfort and mobility. To choose the right clothing for your hiking activities, start by looking at each activity and its specific requirements.
What are hiking activities
Hiking refers to a long outdoor walk. It can be done solo or in a group and can be practised in different ways. Each activity has its own level of technicality:
- Hiking: the most well-known and widely practised activity. Equipment varies depending on the terrain, difficulty and duration of the hike.
- Mountaineering: ascending high-altitude terrain on rocky, snowy or icy ground. Beyond physical ability, specialist equipment is essential to face sometimes extreme conditions.
- Nordic walking: an endurance sport that requires very little technical equipment
- Snowshoe hiking: allows you to hike in winter when there is snow. Clothing does not need to be as technical as for mountaineering, but must be sufficiently insulating to keep out the cold.
- Ski touring: a leisure activity practised on snowy terrain. It requires equipment suited to both the ascent and descent of the mountain.
Essential clothing by activity
Some activities like Nordic walking require very little essential clothing. You will prioritise freedom of movement with garments such as running tights and a technical t-shirt.
Dressing for hiking will depend on many factors. A pair of outdoor trousers (more or less technical depending on the season and your surroundings) and several layers for the upper body (t-shirt, fleece or down jacket and a protective shell) are sufficient.
Snowshoe hiking and ski touring are often done in the mountains and in cold, snowy conditions. It is therefore essential that your clothing protects you from the cold and the elements (snow, rain, wind…). Gloves are also a must.
Finally, mountaineering calls for more technical clothing: a mountaineering trouser, waterproof overtrousers, gloves, liner gloves, gaiters, a waterproof jacket, warm socks… All complemented by the essential accessories for this activity (helmet, harness, ice axe, crampons…).
Clothing for hiking activities varies depending on the type of activity. Some, like Nordic walking, require simple attire, others like hiking demand clothing that adapts to several factors, and others like mountaineering require highly technical garments to face the harsh conditions of high-altitude terrain.
