T-Shirts
A cotton soaked in sweat sticks to the skin and cools down at the first break. When in contact with the body, it's better to choose a material that wicks moisture away and dries quickly, whether synthetic or wool. The t-shirts on this page, available in short or long sleeves, are designed for walking, for men, women, and juniors.
Why avoid cotton when hiking
Cotton absorbs sweat like a sponge and takes a long time to dry. While you're walking, you don't feel anything. But as soon as you stop at the pass or when the wind picks up, this wet fabric cools your back and shoulders. A technical t-shirt, on the other hand, moves moisture away from your skin to the outside, where it evaporates. Your body stays drier and you can carry on without shivering.
Synthetic, merino and sleeve length
Synthetic materials dry the quickest and withstand repeated washings. Merino wool regulates heat and limits odours, allowing it to be worn for several days on a trek. Short sleeves are great for summer and steep climbs. Long sleeves protect against the sun and scrapes, and make a good base layer in mid-season under a fleece.
Outdoor t-shirt brands
Regatta offers t-shirts for the whole family, CMP a wide range of cuts and colours, Peak Mountain tops for hiking and the mountains, Dare 2B t-shirts for active outings, and Patagonia pieces designed for the outdoors.
Layers to stack
On top of the t-shirt, add one of the hiking fleeces, one of the sweatshirts or gilets for warmth, and then one of the jackets against wind and rain. The technical underwear completes the base layer. For the bottom, check out the shorts and trousers, or see the whole hiking clothing page.
Technical t-shirts at low prices
A hiking t-shirt is replaced more often than a jacket. To buy more, check out the hiking clearance, the hiking sales, or the trail running sales for light and breathable tops.
Wearing your t-shirt under the pack
Under a pack, the t-shirt experiences friction and moisture across the entire back surface. Prefer flat seams on the shoulders, where the straps go, to avoid irritation on long days. A close-fitting cut wicks sweat away better than a loose model, which can bunch under the pack. Light colours stay cooler in the sun. On a multi-day trek, take two t-shirts: one on you, and the other drying attached to the pack. Wash them at low temperatures to preserve the fibres.
Frequently asked questions
What t-shirt for summer hiking?
A lightweight synthetic model or fine merino, with short sleeves, that dries quickly and doesn’t cling to the skin.
Does merino keep you warm in summer?
A fine merino remains comfortable in warm weather, as it regulates temperature and dries properly.
Why does my technical t-shirt smell quickly?
Some synthetic fibres retain odours. Wash it after each outing or choose a wool model.
Long or short sleeves in the mountains?
Long sleeves protect against the sun and morning cold, while short ones are cooler during exertion. It all depends on the season.
Where can I find cheap hiking t-shirts?
In the sales and hiking clearance, across all brands.
