Clothing
Dressing for walking is mainly about layering. One layer to wick away sweat, another to retain warmth, and a final one to block wind and rain: each item on this page has its role in this system, for men, women, and children, from summer strolls to autumn treks.
All clothing families
For protection, start with jackets, waterproof or windproof. Warmth comes from fleece, sweatshirts, and vests. Against your skin, choose from t-shirts and technical underwear. For the lower half, trousers cover your legs, while shorts take over in the summer.
The layering system explained
The first layer stays next to your skin and wicks away sweat so you don't get cold during breaks. The second layer, fleece or sweatshirt, traps warm air. The third, the jacket, blocks wind and rain while allowing steam to escape. When climbing, you often take off the warm layer; at the summit, you put everything back on. This layering game prevents you from getting too hot and then too cold.
Natural and synthetic materials
Synthetic fibers dry quickly and resist abrasion from the bag. Merino wool retains warmth even when wet and minimizes odours over several days. Cotton, pleasant in the city, retains moisture: it’s better to avoid it for the first layer when hiking. Many pieces blend fibers to combine drying and comfort.
Outdoor textile brands
Regatta outfits the whole family, from jackets to t-shirts, Patagonia is known for its fleeces and jackets, CMP covers all layers, Rab focuses on technical mountain pieces, Dare 2B is about active textiles, and Helly Hansen makes rain jackets.
Renewing your outdoor wardrobe on a budget
Clothing from previous collections goes on clearance, and hiking sales add discounts. For more winter-focused items, also check the winter sports sales, and for the latest collection, the new arrivals.
Dressing kids for hiking
Kids cool down quickly when stopped and warm up just as fast when running. The layering system works for them too: technical t-shirt, fleece, waterproof jacket, and a hat in the bag. Choose clothes that are easy to put on and take off independently, with simple zips and hoods. Bright colours help spot them from a distance on the trail. Always keep a spare layer, as a fall in a puddle can happen quickly. Junior models are available on most subpages: filter by age to display them.
Frequently asked questions
How should you dress for an autumn hike?
A breathable t-shirt, a fleece and a waterproof jacket, plus a hat and gloves in the bag for stops.
Should you wear trousers or shorts for hiking?
Shorts are nice in warm weather, while trousers protect against brambles, insects, and the cold. Some hikers take both.
Why avoid cotton while hiking?
It absorbs sweat and dries slowly, which can lead to cooling down when activity stops.
How do you wash technical clothing?
Follow the label, avoid fabric softener which clogs the fibers, and let it air dry.
Where can you find cheap hiking clothes?
The clearance and hiking sales gather discounted textiles.
