Find your kit: the best hiking clothing, hiking backpacks and hiking shoes for hiking and mountaineering in the mountains!
Cimalp, specialist in hiking clothing since 1964.
Explore our range of mountaineering and hiking clothing and find all the CimAlp product reviews for our mountaineering softshell and hardshell jackets, anti-mosquito shirts, hiking trousers, thermal base layers and technical trekking socks.
CimAlp garments are all designed to enhance your performance. Built to last, our goal is to make hiking, mountaineering, trekking, ski touring and snowshoeing clothing that is as durable as possible.
Whether you are looking for men's or women's clothing, our range will keep you moving through hiking, mountaineering and trekking. Comfort is a key priority for us — our stretch and elastic garments are designed to move with you. To ensure breathability in our waterproof jackets, ventilation zips improve airflow and keep you comfortable.
Our trekking garments feature hidden pockets to keep your valuables safe. Our windproof and water-repellent or waterproof and breathable jackets, synthetic down jackets, down jackets, sleeveless fleece gilets, fleece jackets, warm clothing, UV-protective garments and more give you everything you need to head out on adventure with comfortable, modern kit.
Always stay well protected against the elements with our windstopper, water-repellent clothing — keeping you warm and dry.
We have selected the best footwear brands featuring Gore-Tex membrane and Vibram soles — including Meindl high mountaineering boots, Lowa, Scarpa and Asolo walking shoes, lightweight and comfortable trekking and hiking backpacks, Osprey and Deuter wash bags, and Silva head torches.
What type of hiking shoes do I need for hiking?
The choice of hiking shoes will depend on several factors, including the type of hiking you plan to do, the duration and difficulty of the hike, and the terrain you will be covering. There are several types of hiking shoes available. Low-cut hiking shoes are ideal for short to medium hikes on well-marked trails.
Mid-cut hiking shoes offer increased ankle support and a more robust sole for use on rougher terrain. High-cut hiking shoes are recommended for mountain hiking or mountaineering on rugged terrain where ankle support and grip are essential for this type of outing. It is also important to wear suitable and comfortable hiking socks to prevent blisters and chafing.
How do I choose a hiking backpack suited to my needs?
To choose a hiking backpack suited to your needs, it is important to consider several criteria. The capacity of the backpack will depend on the duration of your hike and the volume of gear you will be carrying. For a day hike, a backpack of 20 to 30 litres is generally sufficient. For a multi-day hike, you will need to go for a backpack of 50 to 70 litres. A hiking backpack must be comfortable to carry.
Make sure the shoulder straps and back panel are padded and that the weight is evenly distributed across your back. It is also important to check whether the backpack has a hip belt to take the load off your shoulders. A hiking backpack must be robust enough to handle the tough conditions you may encounter on the trail. Check that the fabric is sturdy and water-resistant. Some hiking backpacks come with a range of practical features, such as side pockets for a water bottle, compression straps to reduce the volume of the pack, attachments for an ice axe or hiking poles, and pockets for wet or dirty items.
What are the most suitable types of jackets for hiking?
There are different types of jackets suitable for hiking. For example, waterproof jackets are essential if you plan to hike in rain or wet conditions. They are made from waterproof materials such as Gore-Tex, which prevent water from getting in. They may also feature waterproof zips and adjustable hoods. You also have the option of softshell jackets, which are designed to offer protection against wind and light rain while remaining breathable and flexible for a wide range of movement. They are often used for hiking in cool, dry conditions.
Fleece jackets are lightweight and warm, making them an excellent option for hiking in cool weather. They are also breathable, which helps regulate body temperature. Insulating jackets such as down jackets are designed to provide protection in very cold temperatures. They are often padded with down or synthetic fibre and can be worn as a mid or outer layer.
Do I need hiking poles and how do I choose them?
Hiking poles are useful equipment for hiking, as they help distribute body weight and stabilise movement, providing extra support for the legs and knees. Hiking poles should be adjusted to your height. To determine the correct size, hold the pole upside down and place it on the ground. Your elbow should be at a 90-degree angle when holding the grip. Hiking poles are typically made from aluminium, carbon fibre or composite. Aluminium poles are the most common and are often less expensive, while carbon fibre poles are lighter and stronger.
Handles can be made from foam, rubber or cork. Foam handles are more comfortable but can become slippery when wet with sweat. Cork handles are more breathable and offer better grip, but are more expensive. Wrist straps keep the poles in place in your hand and relieve pressure on your fingers.
What are the useful accessories to bring on a hike?
Here are some useful accessories to bring on a hike. A first-aid kit — in the event of an accident or minor injury, a first-aid kit is essential for providing emergency care before receiving medical assistance. Bring a head torch — it is important to have a light source to see where you are going and to make sure you do not get lost. Always have a way to navigate: even if you have a GPS, it is useful to have a compass and a map to help you find your bearings, especially in areas with poor GPS reception.
A pocket knife is always handy for various tasks. To protect yourself from the sun and avoid sunburn and heatstroke, sunglasses and a hat are essential. If you plan to spend a full day hiking, it is recommended to bring a change of clothes in case of a sudden change in weather. For nutrition and hydration, it is important to carry enough food and water for the entire duration of the hike. To keep nature clean and leave no trace on the trails, it is recommended to carry a rubbish bag to collect and take away your waste.
Your favourite mountain activity — find it at CimAlp
To help you as effectively as possible, we have selected the perfect outfits for your mountain activities. Find the best outfits in our selections for:
All our backpacks, hiking shoes, coats, jackets, waterproof jackets for outdoor, hiking/trekking trousers and T-shirts are tested and approved by our ambassador mountain guides and leaders.