Life is better in hiking boots.

You get to traverse uneven ground, littered with stones and sticks without the danger of falling or losing your footing. You can sidestep overgrown brambles and rocks with ease, never losing balance. Life is good when hiking with trail shoes or boots that are specifically designed for this activity.

If the foot gear matters so much, imagine how important it must to be put on the right attire!

If you are planning a hiking trip, here’s what you should know about the clothes to wear:

Right Clothing Materials

The best hiking clothes are made from environment-friendly materials that offer great insulation and quick-to-dry features under extreme conditions.

Say No to Cotton During Cold Weather

The best hiking clothes when the weather is cold or wet are manufactured from synthetic materials that keep hikers dry even on grueling hikes.

You will be tempted to wear a soft cotton t-shirt, but it isn’t a good idea because the material traps sweat and moisture which won’t dry quickly. This can become a nuisance if you are climbing up a mountain and the temperature suddenly drops but your shirt is still wet.

What are the best materials for clothing meant to be worn in hiking? The best materials for hiking clothes are soft and lightweight, with the ability to absorb moisture and sweat.

Additionally, most synthetic materials, such as polyester, allow an overheated body to breathe easily, releasing heat in the process and improving comfort.

Another excellent material is Merino wool. This breathable material offers moisture wicking properties as well as the ability to drive away foul sweat odors.

The material can be easily worn as a base layer when hiking in areas with colder temperatures.

Additionally, wearing either a short or long-sleeved shirt is good for layering when you are hiking. But remember, a short-sleeved shirt will leave more of your skin exposed to the sun and wind.

Speaking of Layering

What is the number one rule to remember when hiking? Always assume the temperature could and will drop significantly when you are hiking in the mountains.

Protection against extreme changes in temperature is crucial, and it is only possible with a three-layer outfit.

Wear a lightweight and moisture-wicking piece of clothing as the base. Pull on a light or medium weight fleece from your pack if it gets chilly! Additionally, a light wind-breaker that is also waterproof rounds out the third layer.

Your hiking experience will only be as fun as the effort you put into packing. Make sure you have enough packing space without making the daypack heavier to lug around. Look at Light Hiking Gear's collection of lightweight but durable bags today.