Are you gearing up for a hike? You want to ensure that you’ve got the necessary hiking accessories, clothes, and equipment. To avoid an uncomfortable hiking experience, be sure to have the right attire. To what clothes to wear to a hike, know the climatic conditions, for how long you want to stay outdoors, and the kind of trail you will be on. Before you put on those pants, make informed decisions by considering these points:
Underwear
Whether you prefer your bikini briefs, boy shorts, or boxers, choose whatever suits your personal taste. But avoid cotton underwear because it will keep you sweaty and chaffy. You want a supportive undergarment of low profile. Seamless designs are good options as they will avoid chaffing under there. For the ladies, opt for a pullover sports bra and avoid anything with metallic clasps which could hurt your skin. If you like a camisole, find a lightweight and versatile piece that will add warmth during cold days.
With regards to your underwear fabrics, choose them according to the expected weather. You might need extra warmth and support during a cool hike. Make sure that the garment has a wicking ability.
Pants
You need something comfortable and sturdy. Avoid denim jeans at all costs. Expect a lot of twists and turns in the trails and so you need pants that will facilitate maximum mobility. Yoga pants are some of the best hiking clothes for men; they are flexible but avoid them in bushy and sandstone areas. Consider trousers with a base layer, middle layer, and a weatherproof outer shell. Consider zip-off pants so you will not need to choose between shorts and pants. If you go with shorts, pick lightweight materials that will dry quickly. Also, in-built liners come in handy if you expect to swim.
Hats
When the hike is in a desert, the last thing you want is to become sun-baked. Look for a hat with a wide brim or an attached sun cap. A hat will also protect you if it rains, so make sure that it is waterproof. During a cool hike, pack a synthetic cap or a woolen hat that can insulate your head.
Shirt
A short-sleeved t-shirt is ideal for warm hiking while a long-sleeved shirt is great for cool weather. If the hiking day is hot and sunny, consider a flip-up collar to protect your neck from the scorching sun.
Dress/skirt
If you don’t want to wear pants, you can have other used and new hiking clothes for women (dress or a skirt) and make sure they are made of a stretchy yet sturdy material. Consider in-built liners for your skirt.
Socks and gloves
Depending on the weather, you can have thick or thin materials for your socks and gloves. Make sure that the socks are longer than your boots or hiking shoes. For a winter hike, go with waterproof and warm gloves.
Gaiters
These are similar to legwarmers which are worn on top of boots. They help to keep off debris, bugs, and water as you walk.
Hikers insist that there is nothing like bad weather when it comes to outdoor adventures. Indeed, only what you wear matters at the end of the trip. Whether it’s your first or fiftieth time in the woods, apply the above dos and don’ts for your hiking clothes. You can find used and new hiking clothes men and women in a consignment store. Just be sure to pick the right fabric.
