Apparel for the Trail: Choosing the Proper Clothes for Hiking

When preparing for a hiking trip, there are certainly a large variety of aspects to plan. While considering such things as location, safety gear, and food is important, don't forget to carefully plan another key part of your hiking trip: your wardrobe. Your hiking apparel is not just for looks; it can play a key role in the comfort and ease of your trip. The right clothing will enhance your hiking experience, while the wrong clothing can interfere with your plans and even ruin your trip and possibly risk your health.

It is highly recommended that all of your hiking apparel be made of synthetic material. None of your clothing should be more than 50% cotton. The reasons for choosing synthetic materials are very important. Synthetic clothing is better at absorbing sweat without becoming heavy or cumbersome. This will go along way in keeping you comfortable during your hike. If wet weather strikes, soaked cotton clothing can weigh you down and can even contribute to hypothermia. Synthetic fabric lessens the heavy, chilling effect caused by wet cotton. Synthetic clothing is also lighter in general, which is helpful not only when you are wearing it but also when you are carrying your extra clothing in your pack.

Another important key in choosing your hiking wardrobe is layering. No matter what kind of weather you are expecting, dressing in several thin layers is the best choice. It is much easier to maintain a comfortable body temperature by adding or removing one layer at a time. Always pack extra layers, just in case cold weather strikes. Thick, heavy coats are a poor choice not only because of their weight but because they are not as effective or as versatile as using several thin layers to keep warm.

It is always ideal to prepare yourself for any weather you might encounter on your hike. Although the weather might begin as clear and summery, you never know when it might suddenly become cold or rainy. Sudden weather changes are especially common at higher elevations.