What To Wear Hiking In The Summer – Beating The Heat On The Trail

Hiking in the summer poses its own set of considerations and knowing what to wear to help e summers can get very hot, and us Aussie hikers are experts in choosing what to wear hiking in the summer. Sun protection is a major consideration for us not only when hiking in the summer but also in our day-to-day lives.

This guide will help you make the right choices to ensure comfortable and safe summer hikes and goes hand in hand with my guide on hydration.

Summer Hiking Fabric Choices

Knowing what fabrics to choose for your clothing can make all the difference. Moisture-wicking fabrics are where it’s at if you want to stay fresh. They help you dodge that sticky feeling by drawing sweat away from your skin. Imagine hiking without feeling drenched. Yep, that’s the magic of moisture-wicking.

Some clothing brands feature Polygiene technology, which is all about fighting odors. It’s like having a secret weapon against the infamous post-hike stink. Perfect for those multiple-day hiking trips where washing facilities are rare.

Synthetics

• Synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester are the unsung heroes when it comes to summer hiking. They’re not only lightweight but also tough enough to withstand the rugged outdoors. Most importantly, they dry at lightning speed, keeping you comfy as you sweat it out on those sunny trails. Ever spill water on your shirt and have it dry in minutes? That’s synthetics for you!

Merino Wool

• Merino wool might sound like it’s meant for winter, but surprise! It’s a game-changer in summer. This fabric is like that cool friend who’s always got your back. It regulates body temperature, wicks away moisture, and helps keep that hiking funk at bay—all while being super gentle on your skin. I’m not talking a thick woollen sweater but a lightweight knit. This is my preferred option.

Cotton

• Cotton in the hiking world is pretty much a double-edged sword. In scorching, dry conditions, it can be your cool, moisture-retaining buddy. But if there’s a hint of weather change, cozy cotton can become your worst nightmare—think cold and clammy. Nobody wants to experience chafing miles into their adventure, so be mindful of where and when you rock the cotton. Personally, I never wear cotton hiking garments.

Choosing the Perfect Clothing for a Summer Hike

Summer hiking is all about staying cool and protected not only from the sun but also the flora and fauna. Being prepared is essential when hiking so remembering to pack a waterproof jacket or poncho as an un-expected summer storm can brew is essential.

Light Colours

• Choose light colours, think: beige, khakis, creams even pastels as these reflect the heat rather than absorbing it. Nothing will make you hotter than the sun beating down on a black clad back.

Light Weight and Loose Fitting

• Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting garments that let your skin breathe. These give you that extra airflow, which is like a gentle breeze on a hot day. Plus, nobody wants to feel constricted while climbing a hill or rocks.

In-built Ventilation

• Clothes with ventilation panels can make a huge difference. They help cool you down effectively by enhancing air circulation. Imagine having mini air conditioners on your hike—all without carrying extra weight.

UV Protection

• UV protection isn’t just for sunscreen. UPF-rated clothing adds that extra shield against harmful rays. The higher the UPF rating, the better your defense against UV radiation. It’s almost like wearing a force field around your skin, keeping those sunburns at bay!

Long Sleeves

• While it might seem counterintuitive in the heat, wearing long sleeves and sun sleeves made from light fabrics can protect your arms from UV damage and scrastches from plants and bushes. Think of it as a thin-yet-strong layer against those sun rays and spikes. Neck gaiters can also come in handy, serving as a barrier for your neck without causing overheating.

Overall, your clothing choices can significantly enhance your hiking experience, turning what could be an uncomfortable ordeal into a breezy adventure.

Shirts, Bottoms, and Why They Matter

Hiking Shirts

• When it comes to choosing shirts for hiking, breathable long-sleeved options are my preference. They’re like personal bodyguards against the sun, especially if they’re made from merino wool or come with a UPF rating. They work by protecting your skin from harmful UV rays without causing you to overheat. They prevent the need to keep applying sunscreen which we all guilty of neglecting to do. I also like the protection from cuts and scratches that inevitably occur as you brush past plants and shrubs.

Hiking Bottoms

Here’s where personal preference comes into play, my preference is pants for the exact same reasons I wear longs sleeved tops.

• For bottoms, quick-dry shorts are an option giving comfort and freedom of movement. They let you experience the trail without feeling restricted, making those uphill battles just a bit easier. Plus, anything that helps control sweat and keeps you dry is a win in my book.
• But wait, there are times when long pants rule the day. Not only do they offer extra protection from the sun, but they’re also your first line of defense against pesky branches and plants that pop up uninvited on the trail. There’s no better way to keep your legs scratch-free while giving some shade.

The key is knowing what works for you and the specific trail you’ll tackle. With all the available options, you can perfectly match your hiking gear to the terrain and weather conditions for maximum comfort and safety.

Essential Footwear and Accessories for Hiking Comfort

Socks

• When it comes to selecting the right socks for your summer hiking adventures, breathable and seamless options made from merino wool or synthetic materials are the way to go. These fabrics help regulate your foot temperature and mitigate the risk of blisters, which nobody wants to deal with halfway through a hike. Steer clear of cotton socks since they’ll trap moisture and leave your feet feeling soggy. My prefefrence is wool.

Gaiters

• While gaiters will not help against heat, they do offer protection against snake bites. Since summer is when they are out and about, gaiters are a non negotiable as far as I’m concerned.

Head and Neck

• Head protection is crucial; a wide-brimmed hat can offer great coverage, shielding your face, neck and ears from harsh UV rays. It’s like carrying your own portable shade. Look for hats with ventilation features and UPF ratings that add an extra layer of protection while keeping your head cool. If walking past a creek or water supply, I often wet my hat for a pleasant cooling effect.
• Keeping your neck cool is another game-changer for hot-weather hikes. Wet a bandana or use a sun-protective gaiter or neck scarf. These can work wonders in keeping heat at bay, especially useful when the sun’s at its peak.

Finding the right balance between protection and comfort in your clothes and accessories makes miles of difference. It’s the little things, like not worrying about overheating, sunburn, blisters, cuts, scrapes and snake bites that make a hike enjoyable. Happy Hiking!

What are your opinions on hiking garments for summer hikes? Please leave a comment below.