Hiking offers the opportunity to explore a diverse range of landscapes, including scenic parks, riversides, deserts, and mountains. While these environments provide breathtaking sights, they also present varying weather conditions. When hiking in 70-degree weather, choose appropriate clothing that ensures comfort and preparedness.
Over the years, this clothing system has proven to be comfortable and adaptable in a variety of hiking scenarios. Whether you find yourself tackling a freezing morning in the Grand Canyon or enduring the summer heat in Yosemite, this clothing combination has consistently performed flawlessly. Allowing you to know the key considerations for each piece of clothing will make you understand well-informed purchases without any regrets. Let’s hike through.
Key Takeaways
- Choose appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking, including moisture-wicking and breathable materials, sturdy shoes or boots, and layers to adapt to changing weather conditions.
- Prepare for hikes by researching and planning your route, checking the weather forecast, informing someone about your plans, and carrying essential items like water, snacks, navigation tools, and a first aid kit.
- Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment, including packing out trash, respecting wildlife and vegetation, and staying on designated trails.
- Stay prepared and be mindful of safety precautions, including carrying navigation tools, wearing appropriate clothing, knowing basic first aid, and having a plan in case of getting lost.
- Embrace the beauty of nature, enjoy the physical and mental benefits of hiking, and create lasting memories on the trails.
What to Wear Hiking in Hot Weather: 9 Clothing Items
When hiking in hot weather, choose clothing that keeps you cool and comfortable. Here are some tips on what to wear:
Lightweight and breathable fabrics
Choose clothing made of lightweight and breathable materials like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics. These fabrics allow air circulation and help evaporate sweat, keeping you cool.
Wear loose-fitting clothing
Loose-fitting clothes allow for better airflow and ventilation, helping to keep you cooler. Avoid tight or constricting garments that can trap heat.
Choose shorts or convertible pants
Opt for shorts or convertible pants that can be converted into shorts. They provide better airflow and allow your legs to breathe. If you prefer pants, choose lightweight and loose-fitting options.
Pick moisture-wicking and quick-drying clothing
Look for moisture-wicking clothing that pulls sweat away from your skin, allowing it to evaporate faster. This helps to keep you dry and cool during your hike. Quick-drying fabrics are also beneficial if you encounter water or sweat excessively.
Wear a moisture-wicking t-shirt or lightweight top
Choose a moisture-wicking t-shirt or a lightweight top that allows air circulation and helps to keep you cool. Avoid dark-colored tops that absorb heat and opt for lighter colors that reflect sunlight.
Protect yourself from the sun
Wear a wide-brimmed hat or a cap to shield your face and neck from the sun. Consider wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. Apply sunscreen to exposed skin areas to prevent sunburn.
Use breathable and cushioned hiking socks
Wear breathable and moisture-wicking socks made specifically for hiking. These socks help to keep your feet dry and prevent blisters. Look for cushioned options for added comfort during long hikes.
Choose lightweight and breathable hiking shoes
Opt for lightweight hiking shoes or trail runners that offer good ventilation. Look for shoes with breathable mesh panels to enhance airflow and prevent your feet from overheating.
Carry a lightweight and breathable backpack
Choose a backpack with breathable padding or mesh panels on the back to enhance ventilation and prevent excessive sweating on your back.
Last but not least, you will definitely need water! Regardless of what you wear, make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in hot weather. Carry an adequate water supply and consider using a hydration pack or water bottles.
8 Clothes to Avoid Wearing on Hiking
When it comes to hiking, certain clothing choices should be avoided to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. Here’s a list of what not to wear when hiking:
1. Cotton clothing
Avoid wearing cotton apparel, including t-shirts, jeans, or sweatshirts, as they absorb moisture and dry slowly. This can lead to discomfort, chafing, and even hypothermia in colder conditions.
2. Improper footwear
Steer clear of inappropriate footwear such as flip-flops, sandals, or casual sneakers. They lack the necessary support, traction, and protection for hiking trails. Opt for proper hiking boots or trail shoes instead.
3. Bulky or heavy clothing
Wearing heavy, bulky layers restricts movement and can cause overheating. Choose lightweight and breathable materials that provide insulation without adding unnecessary weight.
4. Denim
Avoid hiking in denim jeans as they are restrictive, take longer to dry when wet, and can cause chafing and discomfort during prolonged activity.
5. Inadequate headwear
Skip hats or caps that don’t offer sufficient sun protection. Opt for wide-brimmed hats or caps with neck flaps to shield your face, neck, and ears from harmful sun exposure.
6. Jewelry and accessories
Avoid wearing excessive jewelry or accessories that can get caught on branches or pose safety hazards. Leave delicate or valuable items at home to minimize the risk of loss or damage.
7. Fashion shoes or heels
Leave fashion-focused shoes or high heels behind, as they lack the necessary stability, grip, and support for hiking trails.
8. Inadequate layering
Be cautious not to underdress or overdress. Failing to layer properly may lead to discomfort or inadequate protection against changing weather conditions. Adjust your clothing layers to adapt to temperature fluctuations.
Clothing Strategies for 70-Degree Weather
Here are some key strategies to keep in mind when putting together the perfect hiking outfit:
Maintain clothing layering
Layering is a reliable technique where each clothing layer serves a specific purpose. You can add or remove layers to adapt to changing weather conditions. Start with:
- Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer directly against your skin. Choose lightweight, breathable materials like synthetic fabrics or merino wool. This layer helps to wick away sweat and keep you dry.
- Mid-Layer: The mid-layer provides insulation and retains body heat. Fleece jackets or synthetic insulated jackets work well for this purpose. Consider the weather conditions and adjust the thickness of the mid-layer accordingly.
- Outer Layer: The outer layer serves as protection against the elements such as wind, rain, or snow. A waterproof and windproof jacket is essential. Look for jackets made with breathable fabrics to prevent overheating and allow moisture to escape.
- Bottom Layers: Apply the same layering principles to your lower body. Opt for moisture-wicking and quick-drying hiking pants as your base layer. Depending on the weather, you may add an additional insulating layer such as thermal leggings or softshell pants. Ensure your outer layer is water-resistant and provides protection against wind and abrasions.
Choose polyester, nylon, or merino wool base layers
Instead of cotton, opt for moisture-wicking materials like polyester, nylon, or merino wool for your base layers. These fabrics efficiently move sweat away from your skin and dry quickly, making them ideal for items such as underwear, sports bras, short- and long-sleeve tees, and socks. Their moisture management properties make them suitable for the rest of your clothing as well.
Prioritize function over fashion
While it’s great to look good, feeling comfortable should be your primary focus. Fortunately, many brands nowadays prioritize both comfort and technical performance alongside style. Just make sure the pieces you choose are up to the task and provide the necessary functionality for your hike.
Anticipate weather conditions
Dressing appropriately for the elements can significantly impact your comfort and safety on the trail. Weather forecasts may not always be accurate, and conditions can change unexpectedly due to elevation shifts. Be prepared in case the weather turns cooler, wetter, snowier, or hotter than predicted by wearing or packing appropriate layers.
Also, different seasons may require specific gear. For example, a warm wool hat and gloves are essential for a winter hike, while a sun hat with a brim is useful for a summer hike.
Know your trail conditions
If you’ll be hiking through brushy woodlands, tall grasses, or forested areas, consider wearing long sleeves and pants or clothing with built-in insect repellent or bug netting to protect yourself from ticks, mosquitoes, and other pests. In desert environments, taller hiking boots can offer additional protection. Urban hikes may call for versatile and stylish clothing, allowing you to transition seamlessly from town to trail.
Footwear for Hiking
Footwear plays a crucial role in ensuring a comfortable hiking experience, as sore feet or blisters can quickly dampen your enjoyment on the trail. Consider the following tips when choosing your hiking footwear:
Hiking boots or trail-running shoes
Opt for sturdy and comfortable shoes that provide support, protection, and traction on challenging terrain. Hiking boots are recommended for longer or multiday hikes due to their ankle support. They are particularly suitable for rugged trails.
Alternatively, low-top hiking shoes or lighter trail-running shoes can be appropriate for shorter hikes on well-maintained or paved trails. If you anticipate hiking in wet conditions, consider footwear with waterproof or water-resistant features, but keep in mind that breathability may be compromised. For more guidance on choosing between hiking boots and trail runners, check out “Hiking Boots vs. Trail Runners: The Great Debate.”
Hiking sandals
Hiking sandals have evolved beyond flimsy flip-flops and can be a lightweight and breathable option for specific situations. They are particularly useful for water crossings or hot days on flat terrain. Look for hiking sandals that provide support, have grippy traction, and feature a secure strap system to hold them firmly on your feet. Consult our Gear Guide for recommendations on hiking sandals available at REI.
Socks
Choose socks of appropriate thickness based on the weather conditions. Remember that socks should be taller than your hiking footwear to prevent blisters. Opt for moisture-wicking wool socks over cotton socks, as wool helps keep your feet dry and reduces the likelihood of blisters. Moisture-wicking socks are a better choice to avoid the discomfort of wet cotton socks.
Hiking Accessories
When heading out for a hike, it’s important to bring along the right accessories to enhance your safety, comfort, and overall hiking experience.
Here are some essential hiking accessories to consider:
- Backpack: A well-fitting backpack is crucial for carrying your essentials on the trail. Choose a size appropriate for the length of your hike and ensure it has comfortable straps, multiple compartments, and good weight distribution.
- Navigation tools: Carry a map, compass, or GPS device to help you navigate the trails. Familiarize yourself with the route before starting your hike and use these tools to stay on track.
- Water bottle or hydration system: Staying hydrated is vital during hikes. Bring a reusable water bottle or consider a hydration system like a hydration bladder to ensure easy access to water while keeping your hands free.
- Snacks and meals: Pack lightweight, nutritious snacks and meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike. Trail mix, energy bars, dried fruits, and sandwiches are popular options.
- First aid kit: Carry a compact first aid kit containing essential items such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, blister pads, and any necessary personal medications. Be familiar with basic first aid procedures.
- Sun protection: Protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Consider lip balm with SPF as well.
- Insect repellent: Depending on the area and season, insects can be bothersome during hikes. Use insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs.
- Multi-tool or knife: A versatile tool or pocket knife can be handy for various tasks on the trail, such as cutting rope, repairing gear, or opening food packages.
- Headlamp or flashlight: For hikes that may extend into low-light conditions or involve overnight stays, a headlamp or flashlight is essential for visibility and safety.
- Extra clothing layers: Depending on the weather, pack extra clothing layers to adapt to temperature changes. Bring a lightweight, packable rain jacket or windbreaker for protection against inclement weather.
- Trekking poles: Trekking poles provide stability, reduce strain on joints, and improve balance, especially on challenging terrains. Consider using them for added support during hikes.
FAQs
How do I choose the right hiking trail?
Consider factors such as your fitness level, experience, desired distance, difficulty, and the environment you want to explore. Research trail descriptions, reviews, and difficulty ratings to find a trail that matches your preferences.
How should I prepare for a hike?
Plan your route, check the weather forecast, inform someone about your plans, pack essential items (water, snacks, navigation tools, first aid kit), wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and ensure your physical fitness matches the trail difficulty.
How can I prevent blisters during hikes?
Wear properly fitting and broken-in hiking shoes or boots, use moisture-wicking socks, apply foot powder or lubricant to reduce friction, and stop to address any hot spots before they develop into blisters.
What should I do if I encounter wildlife on the trail?
Maintain a safe distance, never approach or feed wild animals, and observe them from a distance. If you encounter potentially dangerous wildlife, remain calm, slowly back away, and give them space.
What should I do if I get lost on a hike?
Stay calm, try to retrace your steps, consult your map or GPS device, and if needed, backtrack to the last known location. If you can’t find your way, stay in one place, signal for help, and use emergency communication devices if available.
Final Thoughts
Before heading out on a hike, thoroughly research your chosen trail, assess the weather conditions, and plan accordingly. Equip yourself with the right gear, including suitable footwear, layered clothing, navigation tools, and essential supplies. Stay hydrated, pack nutritious snacks, and be mindful of the Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
While on the trail, be aware of your surroundings, follow trail markers, and respect wildlife. Take time to appreciate the beauty of nature and immerse yourself in the experience. Hiking offers opportunities for self-reflection, personal growth, and memorable moments.