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What do I wear hiking? Well in Alberta, Canada that depends on the day! Sometimes I’m hiking in shorts and a t-shirt, other days I’m wearing pants, baselayers, sweater and coat! The key point here is the fabrics you choose. Most people know to avoid wearing cotton, since it retains moisture. But what do you wear instead? Well I usually pick activewear like my trusty Lululemon, or Under Armour simply because it’s designed to get sweaty and still be comfortable! But I do have certain clothes I would recommend. Here are my hiking clothing recommendations!
Warm Summer Day Outfit:
- Lululemon shorts – I have a pair just a bit longer than a typical run short and the most important factor is that they have pockets! 2 in front and 2 in back! This means that I can cram my phone, snacks, and lip chap into my pockets!
- Tank/T-shirt – I usually wear a T-shirt because: A. I sunburn like crazy, and B. If I’m wearing a backpack the straps can chafe.
- Sweater – I always bring an extra layer for warmth. Even if it’s +30 celcius.
- Hat – I usually wear a ball cap, because heat stroke and sunburn are not fun.
- Wool socks – Yes even in summer I wear wool. Breathable, moisture wicking and lightweight socks are a blessing trust me. I like these ones here.
Cold Summer Day Outfit:
- Helly Hansen Pants – Again pockets! Lots of pockets, stretch, and a more heavy duty fabric that I don’t worry about snagging or ripping.
- Helly Hansen long sleeve shirt – I got mine from Value Village, or you can wear a regular activewear top. I recently found a Merino wool long sleeve to test out! (Also a Value Village find!) Something sweat wicking that won’t chafe or get uncomfortable is the goal here.
- Fleece zip up sweater – I particularly wanted the convenience of a full zip fleece instead of a 1/4 zip. I hate trying to pull things on and off over my head while hiking! Fleece is great for warmth while being lightweight and moisture wicking.
- Wool socks – For a colder day I have a regular thickness wool sock that I love. Ready for it? The Kirkland brand wool socks from Costco! I got a 6 pack and I love how comfortable they are. I even get a bit of cushion when I wear them!
- Hat – Let’s be honest, I always wear a hat hiking. That way I don’t have to do my hair!
– Columbia fleece, Lululemon t-shirt and North Face pants from Value Village – Columbia fleece from Value Village
Essential Gear:
- Hiking boots – This is a highly personal preference but I love Merrel boots. I have had 3 pairs over the years and they have worn well, been instantly comfortable, and don’t get beat up too fast! (I splurged for Gore Tex this last time and it’s so worth it!) These are my current boots.
- Rain Coat – Always bring a waterproof layer!
- Underwear – Yup we are going there! I always pick a seamless pair of activewear underwear, and a comfy sports bra, because chaffing sucks. So does really sweaty underwear.
- Sunglasses – I wear Sundogs – they are designed for active people who run , hike etc.
My last piece of advice is to always dress for the weather, and then consider what the worst possible change in weather can bring. For me that means even if there’s no rain in the forcast I’m bringing a coat. I also always pack an extra layer for warmth. Usually a thin light sweater if it’s warm, or my fleece if it’s not. Extra socks are never a bad idea, and I always wear sunglasses. It’s considering these little details that can make your day far more comfortable! I hope my hiking clothing recommendations help you plan for your next trip!
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