Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, your clothing must be chosen with care. It needs to support your effort and protect you from certain risks such as hypothermia or heatstroke. Your clothing will therefore vary depending on the season, the type of outing, and weather conditions. Find out what clothing to choose for hiking.
Key takeaways:
- The three-layer principle involves layering a breathable base, an insulating mid-layer, and a protective outer layer.
- The choice of trouser type depends on weather conditions, but also on the terrain the hiker will be covering.
- The shoe upper should be chosen based on the type of hiking
- Some accessories are essential for completing an outfit.
The three-layer principle
To choose the right clothing for hiking, following the three-layer principle is the most effective approach. It involves layering a breathable base, an insulating mid-layer, and a protective outer layer. Depending on weather conditions and exertion level, you can then remove or add each layer.
The first layer is breathable. These are t-shirts or technical base layers that wick moisture away. Synthetic materials have the advantage of regulating temperature and drying quickly. Merino wool is another option. It retains warmth even when wet and limits odour build-up. In all cases, cotton should be avoided, as it absorbs moisture.
The second layer is insulating. It retains body heat by trapping air. This mainly includes fleece jackets or down jackets. The materials used can be natural down (for an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, but less effective in wet conditions), synthetic fabric (for better moisture resistance), or wool (which remains a good insulator even when wet).
The third layer is protective. Waterproof jackets provide protection against the elements (rain, snow, wind…). They offer waterproof, windproof, and breathable properties. How to choose a hiking jacket? It all depends on your activity. If you enjoy intense, active outings, you should prioritise a highly breathable layer. If you hike in a region prone to rain or snow, you should instead focus on a membrane with high waterproofing.
How to choose hiking trousers
To choose hiking trousers, freedom of movement, durability, and protections suited to your environment are key criteria. Regarding materials, natural fibres prioritise comfort while synthetic fibres offer greater protection. You can therefore choose a breathable fabric for fine weather and opt for an insulating, water-repellent fabric for cold or rainy conditions.
In terms of fit, it should be neither too tight nor too loose. Ideally, look for an adjustable belt and reinforced areas (knees, pockets). Also consider the small details that make a difference, such as the number of pockets, the presence of zip fasteners, or ankle laces for waterproofing.
As for trouser type, it depends above all on your personal preferences. Traditional hiking trousers adapt to all situations. Shorts are practical in summer, as long as you're not walking through forests or tall grass where ticks are common. Convertible zip-off trousers are therefore a great alternative. Finally, leggings are also an option for shorter outings.
Although the three-layer principle is often associated with upper-body clothing, it can also be adapted for the lower body. In very cold conditions, you can add a pair of wool tights as a base layer. In case of showers, a rain over-trouser is recommended.
How to choose hiking shoes
Choosing hiking clothing also comes down to the right socks and footwear. The material of your socks depends on your activity. If you plan on walking for long periods or in cold conditions, wool is ideal. For more active pursuits, synthetic materials are generally recommended. They are more ergonomic and offer better moisture-wicking. The ideal choice is a pair with reinforcements at the heels and toes to prevent blisters.
Hiking shoes should provide support, grip, and protection. Choose them based on your foot shape, as well as the type of hiking and terrain. In dry conditions, go for shoes with a mesh upper, which ensures good ventilation. Also choose lugs that are closely spaced to promote good grip. In wet conditions, opt for shoes with a waterproof membrane, such as Gore-Tex, which offers both waterproofing and breathability. Deep, widely spaced lugs will also help prevent slipping.
Low-cut shoes are recommended for dynamic or short outings on easy terrain. Mid-cut shoes are a good compromise, offering moderate support on varied terrain. Finally, high-cut shoes provide excellent ankle support and are designed for mountain hiking or when carrying a heavy pack. In all cases, remember to choose shoes suited to the shape of your foot to avoid blisters and other discomfort.
Essential accessories
To complete your hiking outfit, certain accessories are essential. In fine weather, bring along a lightweight cap or a wide-brimmed hat. You should also equip yourself with UV-protection sunglasses.
When it gets colder or windier, other accessories can prove very useful. So, what clothing should you choose for hiking on cool or windy days? You can opt for a lightweight beanie, thin gloves, and a neck warmer. The neck warmer is an essential piece of kit that can be worn in many different ways. It's a great way to be prepared for any eventuality.
You now know what clothing to choose for hiking. By following this advice, you should avoid overloading yourself while still being well equipped to tackle the trails. Happy hiking!
