Quick answer: wear moisture-wicking layers (synthetic or merino, never cotton), comfortable hiking pants or shorts, hiking socks and broken-in footwear. Pack a warm mid-layer and a waterproof jacket even if the forecast looks good. Add a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
The right clothing keeps you dry, warm and comfortable as the weather and your effort level change. You don’t need expensive technical kit. You just need to understand layering.
The 3-Layer System
1. Base Layer: Moves Sweat Away
Your base layer sits against your skin and moves sweat away so you stay dry. Choose merino wool (warm, resists odour) or polyester/nylon (cheaper, dries fast). Use a short-sleeved tee in summer and a long-sleeved top in cold weather.
2. Mid Layer: Keeps You Warm
A fleece, a light synthetic insulated jacket or a down jacket traps heat. Take it off on climbs and put it on during breaks and at the summit.
3. Outer Layer: Keeps Out Wind and Rain
A waterproof, breathable rain jacket protects you from wind and rain. A packable one weighs very little and could save your day if the weather turns.
Why You Shouldn’t Wear Cotton Hiking
Cotton absorbs sweat and rain, takes hours to dry, and pulls heat from your body when it’s wet. In cool or windy conditions that’s uncomfortable, and it can be dangerous. Outdoor educators sum it up as “cotton kills”. Leave the jeans and cotton hoodies at home.
What to Wear Hiking by Season
| Season | Top | Bottom | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer / hot | Light, loose synthetic or sun shirt | Hiking shorts or light pants | Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen. See hot-weather hiking |
| Spring / autumn | Base layer and fleece | Hiking pants or convertible pants | Rain jacket, light gloves, beanie |
| Winter | Thermal base, insulated mid, hardshell | Thermal leggings under softshell pants | Warm hat, gloves, gaiters, insulated boots |
| Rain | Synthetic base and waterproof jacket | Quick-dry pants (plus rain pants) | Pack cover, spare socks |
Hiking Pants vs Shorts
Pants protect you from sun, scratches, ticks and insects. Shorts are cooler on open, well-maintained trails. Convertible zip-off pants give you both. Learn more in what are hiking pants?
Socks and Footwear
Good socks prevent more blisters than any boot. Choose merino or synthetic hiking socks with no cotton, and carry a spare pair on long hikes. For footwear, read how hiking boots should fit, or consider trail runners for easy terrain (can you hike in running shoes?).
Boots with shorts? Yes, they’re a perfectly normal trail look. Pair them with crew-length hiking socks to stop debris getting in and to protect your ankles from rubbing.
Accessories Worth Wearing
- Sun hat or cap and UV-blocking sunglasses
- Buff or neck gaiter: for sun, dust and cold
- Light gloves for cold mornings and windy summits
- Gaiters for mud, snow or snake country
FAQ
Can I wear leggings hiking?
Yes. Synthetic leggings are comfortable and stretchy. Choose a thicker, abrasion-resistant pair for rough trails.
Can I wear jeans hiking?
They’re fine for a short, dry stroll, but not recommended. Denim is heavy, restricts movement and stays cold and wet once soaked.
What should a woman wear hiking?
The same layering principles apply. Add a supportive sports bra made of wicking fabric. See our women’s hiking clothing guide.
Next: What to bring when you go hiking: the complete checklist
Hi, I am Emam Hasan — founder and editor of BrokeMountain. I oversee this blog’s hiking, camping and outdoor gear guides, making sure every article is well-researched, accurate and genuinely helpful for your time on the trail. Enjoy it!
