One of the most important things to consider when you’re planning a hike in hot weather is what to wear. This may seem trivial, but it’s important to choose the right hiking clothes if you want to enjoy your outdoor activities without overheating or getting sunburned.
Use this guide on what to wear while hiking in hot weather, and you’ll have no trouble enjoying the perfect outing with good friends and great weather.
Top 5 Things You Shouldn’t Forget
- Comfortable walking shoes – For many, this means sturdy trail runners or a good pair of sneakers. Regardless of your choice, it’s important to find something that feels good on your feet for long periods and prevents blisters. You can also go for snake bite proof boots for hot weather as they will provide extra protection against snake bites too.
- Sunscreen – Even if you’re hiking through the shade all day, don’t forget to put sunscreen on any exposed skin.
- A hat – The sun is brutal on a summer hike. A wide-brimmed hat is essential for protecting your face and neck from harmful UV rays.
- Hydration pack with extra water and snacks – Don’t get caught out there without enough water! It’s easy to underestimate how much water you need while hiking so bring an extra bottle with some snacks as well.
- Lightweight layers – Pack at least one lightweight layer like a t-shirt, tank top, or pullover shirt. If you start feeling warm halfway up the mountain, take off your heavy sweatshirt or jacket and enjoy the breeze. When you feel cool again, put it back on. Also make sure to check the weather forecast before heading out for a hike because no matter what clothing you wear in hot weather, it can still be too hot when hiking in direct sunlight.
Your First Layer
No matter the weather, preparation is key. If it’s hot, your first layer should be light and breathable. Materials such as cotton or wool will make you feel warm and clammy when you stop to take a break. Instead, choose a synthetic-based fabric like polyester, spandex, or nylon that wicks away moisture from your skin.
These fabrics also help to keep your body temperature regulated by allowing air to circulate. Some things that you must keep in mind while choosing your first layer of clothing are the color, fit, and price. Color can play an important role because darker colors absorb more heat than lighter colors.
A snug-fitting garment provides better ventilation than a loose-fitting one; however, there are times when loose clothing may be preferred to reduce sun exposure. You need to consider if you are hiking with someone else or if you need pockets for carrying items on your hike.
For those who want to carry something on their hikes, then opt for clothes with front and back pockets. If you don’t want anything weighing you down during your hike, try wearing clothes made out of lightweight materials like linen or silk which offer little resistance to wind or water.
Consider not wearing tight pants which will restrict blood flow around your legs and leave you feeling uncomfortable after some time on the trail. Remember that this is not a fashion show so comfort should always come before looking fashionable while hiking in hot weather!
Second Layer
For your second layer, you’ll want to look for something that’s going to protect you from the sun and its harmful UV rays. T-shirts are great because they’re lightweight, but a rash guard is an excellent option as well.
A rash guard will cover your shoulders, back, arms, and chest, which means you won’t have to worry about being exposed while hiking up a mountain or out on the water during a long day of kayaking. In addition to keeping you safe from the sun, it can also wick away sweat so you stay dry on hot days and don’t overheat.
They’re perfect if you like to wear shorts when hiking because they offer extra protection without being too bulky. There are also some specifically designed rash guards that come with UPF 50+ technology, meaning they block out 98% of all UVA and UVB rays, making them perfect for outdoor activities in the heat!
The Outer Layer
Now comes the most important part of any hiking wardrobe. The outer layer is what will keep you cool and comfortable while you hike, so it’s important to get it right. Our experts recommend a breathable fabric like jersey cotton, which will absorb moisture and allow your skin to breathe.
A lightweight jacket made of synthetic or natural fibers is also key for keeping cool on hot days. Consider layering a long-sleeved shirt under a zip-up fleece vest for extra protection from the sun.
The Accessory
Essential accessories for hot weather hiking include sun protection, cooling vests, or a hat and sunglasses. Pack electrolyte tablets and an empty water bottle to avoid dehydration. Hydration bladders are another great way to stay hydrated on long hikes.
Take care not to hike while dehydrated as this can lead to headaches, dizziness, muscle cramps, and heat exhaustion. Heat stroke is a serious risk if you don’t take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. Always make sure that you know where your nearest water source is before embarking on any long trail.
Choose Colors Wisely
While choosing the right material matters the most, wearing the right colors is also important. Bright colors like red and orange will cause you to sweat more. You may want to consider opting for a darker color like navy blue or white if you are going on a long hike and have a tendency to overheat easily.
You can also try pairing your outfit with lighter shades of blue or green that won’t absorb as much heat from the sun.
The Bottom Line
So, have you found your hiking attire yet? We hope that this blog post has helped you find some good ideas on what to wear for hiking during hot weather.
Now that you know what to wear for a hike and the pros and cons of each type of clothing, it’s time to make a decision! You should choose the best option for your needs. Remember: Be prepared and dress appropriately!
