Tips For Hiking in Style

Hiking is an activity that can serve many purposes from exercise to zen… There is something about wandering into the wilderness and being one with nature that can bring out a true appreciation for our planet (not to mention some awesome style options).When dressing to go on a hike you must remember that style is important but even more so is function. What you must try to do is combine both for the optimal wilderness outfit.

Here are a few things to consider:

1. Occasion

First you must decide what kind of hike you are taking. Are you hiking to exercise, explore, sight see camp or hunt? These various occasions will call for a different form of dress due to the nature of what each occasion includes.

For instance if you are purely exercising, wearing a bunch of heavy gear and boots can actually be a hindrance to your work out (especially in the heat), where as if you are camping or hunting additional attire may be necessary.

On this hike we took in the photos, I actually wore athletic shorts with leggings beneath because I knew we would be moving quickly so i wanted comfort and mobility in my lower section. It ended up getting quit sunny out which is why I removed my flannel that served a heating purpose earlier that morning. In addition I wore a rigged boot to help me grip the ground as we traveled uphill so i didn’t experience any major falls.

2. Weather

Make sure to check the local weather conditions for the day of your desired hike because this can most definitely effect the clothes that you select for the occasion.

Is it going to be raining? You might want to pull out some of those cool jackets you been waiting to wear to stay dry, or put on some water-resistant boots. Is it hot and sunny? You may want to dress a little lighter or even throw on a hat that can help you deflect the sunrays that can distract your vision.

3. Color

I have always had an appreciation for earth tones and throughout history those various shades of khakis, browns and greens have been associated with nature activities such as hunting, fishing, and camping.

It is not necessary but I suggest continuing that theme just because it gets you in the nature mindset. Also it may help you to camouflage yourself from any lurking bears in the area (just kidding…) but seriously incorporating some form these colors can add to the perfect wilderness outfit.

If you want to take it up a notch add a pop of color just as seen in these photos where I wore a red lumberjack flannel. The key word is “A” as in 1.

4. Utilities

Make sure to determine what you will need on your hike in order to get the most out of your trip.

Technology: Use a phone, fitness device or watch to check your mileage, check the time, weather, or various surrounding trials. Oh yea don’t forget a camera for photos…

Outerwear/Bag: That jacket or vest that you wear are great for holding utilities in addition to an extra warmth layer. This can also be achieved with a backpack or other type of bag.

Footwear: Shoes are a big thing to consider when hiking as hikes can be rough on the legs/feet and depending on the occasion you selected you may want to wear a specific shoe or boot that will aid your efforts.

Fuel: This is the obvious but you should always have fluids with you (especially water) and some type of snack to keep you going when you run low on energy.

Practical: Sunglasses, compass, pocket knife, matches… ect. (You never know what can happen).

5. Comfort

Ultimately you want your outfit to be comfortable. You don’t want to be walking for hours uphill with something absolutely uncomfortable on.. This is the first way to make yourself never want to hike again.. so make sure that the items you select to wear suit your comfort.