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Hiking Clothing For Women:
Apparel Guide For The Best Day Hike
And Backpacking Clothes

By Diane Spicer

What should you wear hiking? Choose hiking clothing for comfort and performance with Hiking For Her tips #hikingclothing #hikingclothes #outdoorclothing
#whattowearhiking #cutehikingclothes

What is the best hiking clothing for women hikers?

What should you wear hiking?

Here are fast answers to your questions:

Fair warning: I did the leg work, but choosing the right "cuteness level" for your hiking clothes is up to you ;)


Why use technical hiking clothing?

You can regard hiking clothing as valuable pieces of hiking gear to protect you from all this:

  • UV exposure, moisture, temperature extremes, trail grit, abrasions, and/or bugs.

Gettin' it done, as serious hiking gear.

While making you look good on the trail, that is.

That's right!

Women hikers want cute hiking clothes and fun hiking outfits no matter what we're doing:

  • trekking, walking, camping, day hiking and backpacking

So the second big job of hiking clothing is to satisfy our curiosity about what to wear on a hike and still look cute as we break a sweat.

  • Can a cute outfit for hiking be both attractive and functional?

Let's use this comprehensive Hiking For Her outdoor clothes guide to find out! It will help you decide how to dress for hiking in all seasons.

By the end of the guide, you'll have a detailed answer to the question "What clothes should I wear for hiking?"

Plus some solid recommendations for the best hiking clothing for women hikers.


What should women wear on a hike?
Best hiking clothes recommendations for you

Let's work our way through each big category of hiking attire.

That's the only way to cover all the hiking clothing essentials a female hiker needs.

Will this guide include fashionable hiking clothes?

I'll let you be the judge of that.

My main purpose here is to share exactly what I know works and looks good, based on decades of trail time.

Because that's how trail sisters roll! All the functional + cute details, all on one page.

You can also read about athletic clothing that makes it onto the hiking list here.


Looking for extended size
women's hiking clothing?

Unfortunately, not every outdoor clothing manufacturer offers a wide range of sizing.

Some of the hiking clothes on this page will feature extended size options, others won't.

To be complete, these articles are tailor made for you (and I bet you didn't miss that little clothing pun)!

And there are some trailworthy and cute hiking skirts available, too.

At REI Co-op, you can see all the plus size hiking clothing right here.


Women's hiking clothing reviews

To see how Hiking For Her sizes up hiking clothing, read some reviews:


Now let's get into the details!


Hiking boots and hiking shoes

It's fitting that we start at rock bottom, because your feet are your interface with Mother Earth as you hike.

Here's a thorough explanation of why boots are the most important part of any girl's hiking outfit.

These details on trail shoes help you decide if you even need to hike in sturdy hiking boots!

What does good trail footwear for women
look like?

Here's a quick peek at a waterproof pair of women's hiking boots recommended by Hiking For Her.

Why?

These KEEN Targhee III Mid boots are comfortable right out of the box. They feature durable soles for less rocky trails. And pamper your feet with cushioning to get you started in comfort!

Details at REI

And these >Salomon X Ultra 4 Low hiking shoes are a fave for lots of reasons:

breathability, stability, and great grip on dicey roots and rocks.

Details at REI

Can you see the difference between these two types of footwear for hikers?

Boots give ankle support along with more cushioning for arches.

Trail shoes give you a lighter footprint and more breathing room, in a literal sense!

I have a pair of each, to meet all trail challenges coming my way.


Socks are so important,
please choose with care

Trail footwear and high quality socks go together like peanut butter and jelly.

Try 2 pairs of hiking socks if you want to avoid blisters. Here's how:

Pull on thin liners topped with reinforced toe & heel thicker technical hiking socks.

Here's a good combo:

  • REI Co-op silk liner socks 
  • Paired with their COOLMAX EcoMade midweight hiking crew socks.
Details at REI
Details at REI


Best hiking socks guide

Take a deep dive into how to buy hiking socks for all type of hiking here.

TIP:

You can break the "two pairs of socks" rule if you're wearing lightweight trail shoes or (gasp) sandals.

Why are hiking sandals frowned upon?

Common sense.

Don't risk a foot injury that can leave you unable to return to the trail head.


Sandal exception on the trail

If you're on a trail with frequent shallow water crossings, do this:

Lash a pair of lightweight sandals like these Teva Tirra sandals to your backpack. This smart move will save a lot of frustration.

Details at REI

You can always go with the workhorse of durable water shoes, like classic crocs.

Note the huge drainage holes.

But I thought we were going for cute ;)


Now that we have firm footing as women hikers, let's get dressed from the skin outward!


Best women's underwear for hiking

Be methodical about choosing hiking underwear.

It needs to play well with your layering system, as well as feel good against your skin.

And that means starting at ground zero: hiking panties that move with you.

There's no sense in wearing cheap cotton underwear. This goes double when you're a hiker tackling serious trail.

Why not?

You need high performance underwear. Each pair must do these big jobs, over and over again:

  • wick away your perspiration
  • dry fast
  • give you adequate coverage
  • protect you from chafing
  • and have enough flexibility to move with you.

Cotton doesn't do all that for you.

Here are some great choices to keep you a happy hiker:

Sizes XS - XXL, and lots of colors in these ExOfficio Give-N-Go Bikini Briefs that wash and wear like a dream.


This fuller style covers the area where your backpack hip belt hits. That's important for protection against chafing, especially as a backpacker.

Check out its five star rating at REI, along with more fun colors than white.

Details at REI


Sports bras for your girls

Some gals don't need to bother with this particular piece of hiking clothing. They can pull on a shirt and hit the trail, no bounce involved.

And for some of us with generous endowment, plus size sports bras as a base layer are a must.

It's tiring to bounce with every step.

And it leads to fatigue with chest and back muscles.


Don't get discouraged!
The perfect hiking bra is out there

You will have to try on many brands until you find the one with the magical combination of fit, form and function.

  • Once you do, buy several and rotate them through your hiking clothing line up.

Tip: Shelf bras don't always give you the support you might need/want.

  • Factor in how much sweat you'll produce. You might find nipple chafing a big problem in these less sturdy bras.
  • And why wear 2 flimsy shelf bras with "built in" support that only squishes you? Get a functional, well fitted bra because you deserve to feel comfortable on a hike.

So how much support in a sports bra
is enough for hiking?

It depends on your trail plans.

Flat, wide trails call for medium support.

Anything more rugged, especially if you're carrying a loaded backpack? That calls for a high level of support, most important if you have large breasts.

I'm a fan of the built-in cup sports bra. They are more comfortable and supportive. Avoid the yuck factor of the sweaty stuck-together side effect of hard trail work.

Here are a few sports bra options that I know from experience work well on the trail.

Details at REI

Take a look at the easy-on back design and breathability make this Brooks Dare Crossback 2.0 Bra.

It's a good choice for support while backpacking.

Perforations make for good ventilation!



The wide range of sizing in this Brooks Dare 2.0 Zip bra make it a good bet that you will find your best fit: 30AB up to 38CD-40C.

You'll enjoy the ability to get it on and off easily, even with sweaty skin.


Bonus tips:

Don't subject your hiking sports bras to the high heat of dryer cycles; line dry to extend their life.

To be even more careful, hand wash at home as you would on a backpacking trip.

Or put your sports bras in a "delicates" bag and use that setting on the washer so they will last a long time.


Wondering how to choose the best hiking clothing for your hiking style? Use these tips for finding the best outdoor clothing for women hikers. #hiking #hikinglayering #hikingclothes #hikingoutfit


What kind of pants
should I wear hiking?

Excellent question!

Pants that fit well, look great on the trail, and stand up to the weather are elusive but well worth the effort to locate.

They're a solid foundation for day hike attire as well as backpacking.

Tips for finding the best womens
hiking pants

Look for a fit that doesn't create extra fabric to trip you up, but allows for free flowing movements. You want full range of motion as you bend, twist, and take big steps along the trail.

These hiking pants features are a must:

  • A gusseted crotch gives you more leg movement.
  • An adjustable waist with stretchy fabric feels great.

Reinforced knees and seat are must-haves if you prefer rugged trails. But you will have to pay a bit extra for this double layered hiking clothing.

Some pants have built in belts, and some sport a variety of pockets (teeny tiny to spacious).

Need women's petite hiking pants?

Not sure how to size up a pair of hiking rain pants?

  • Here is a recent review with my tips.

Information on extended size hiking pants is here.

These are some options from brands in my own hiking clothing closet. You can select from casual to rugged choices in a wide range of sizes:

Convertible pants may not be the cutest thing on the trail, but boy! are they versatile for variable weather conditions.

These REI Saharas perform well on any trail. They are available in petite, regular and plus sizes, with many color choices.

And what's not to love about these features?

Fast drying stretchy and lightweight nylon fabric, check.

Color coded leg zippers for fast on and off, and reinforced cuff backs to ward off abrasion, check.

Wow!

Details at REI


Here's a pair of hiking pants that does a lot for you, including partial elastic waistband for free movements, articulated knees and crotch gusset, plus water repellent finish.

REI makes these Activator 3.0 pants in petite, tall, and plus sizes, too!

Tip: Be sure to protect any of your hiking pants with hiking gaiters (skip there now).


A brief pants digression:
"must have" features in women's hiking pants

You can skip down to the next section of this hiking clothing guide, for a look at shorts.

Or you can consider what to keep in mind when you shop for the best hiking pants like the ones I've shared above

Here are the essential features of the best hiking pants.

Zip 'er up!

Zippers are a hiking woman's friend, in all of their many configurations. Let's call them out:

Zippers running horizontally above the knees make versatile hiking clothing that lightens the load on a backpacking trip.

They allow a quick conversion into shorts when the day heats up, 

  • One caution: always wash the bottom half (the "legs") with the top half, even if you only got the top half dirty.
  • You don't want 2-toned pants, right?

Zipper closures, not buttons, for pockets and waistband. It's no fun fumbling to get small buttons fastened, especially during cold and/or wet weather.

  • Plastic zippers are quick and easy, durable, and silent.
  • Velcro might also be a closure option, but it sure isn't quiet and it might not stay closed when it gets dirty.

Zippers running from ankles to knees are great for rain pants. They allow you to pull pants on or off fast, without removing boots.

  • Also makes a fast ventilation system if zippers run all the way up to your waist. You can unzip as much as needed for cool air to bathe your waist and legs. 
  • Full length zippers are unlikely in a pair of regular hiking pants.  But be sure to choose them when selecting rain pants.


Fabric tips for hiking clothing

Durable fabric is a must. You don't want to replace your pants at the end of each season.

Ripstop nylon is a good choice, for its fast drying ability as well as its habit of standing up to rock abrasions.

NOTE: Iron-on patches work okay when it's time to patch a hole. But they tend to fall off after a few runs in the washing machine.

If you're on an extended hiking trip, you will need to wash them while away from a washing machine. Hand washing also removes patches, which can become a modesty issue. Unless you LIKE revealing the color of your underwear to your trail buddies.

  • Be sure to choose pretty hiking panties (see above).

Rain pants rules

Buy them one size larger than your hiking pants, so you can pull them on fast and easy.

Look for a pull string or velcro tabs around the waist. These make it easy for quick adjustments to the amount of clothing (layers) you're wearing.

Whenever possible, choose rain pants with zippers that run the full length of your legs. (See above zipper discussion)

One more thing: buy a dark color, as it tends to hide dirt and tree sap better.

These black rain pants will work well on the trail.

REI Rainier rain pants are full zip.

Great news: they are available in both petite and regular lengths, and a full range of sizes.


Lightweight but durable fabric will keep these rain pants in your hiking clothing line up for a long time.

They're easy to pull on, and keep legs warm for snowshoeing as well as cool rainy hikes.


Details at REI


More tips on choosing the best rain gear, including jackets, here.




Why you need a pair of hiking gaiters!

Here's a useful add-on to your list of the best hiking clothing: hiking gaiters.

Full disclosure: I love my gaiters. I think every hiker should have a pair.

Why? Feast your eyes on this list!

  • They keep my pants dry on early summer mornings hiking through long grass heavy with dew.
  • They keep me toasty warm on winter snowshoeing adventures. How? By deflecting the snow I kick up onto the backs of my legs with each step through heavy snow.
  • They preserve my expensive hiking pants as I'm scrambling over rocks or through brush.
  • They make creek crossings a snap - no worries about having wet socks or pants!

They're not an expensive piece of hiking gear, that's the truth.

But an investment in a good pair of gaiters will make a big difference in your enjoyment of the trail.

And they come in different lengths, for varying terrain:

Details at REI
Details at REI
Details at REI


What more can I say to convince you that gaiters should go along on your hikes?

Whenever you're facing a sandy, rocky, or snowy trail, dig them out of your backpack and you're all set!

And they weigh nothing inside your backpack.

  • Yet give some peace of mind if you're not exactly sure what the day will bring.


Can you wear leggings for hiking?

Absolutely!

The difference between hiking leggings and hiking tights is pretty much in the eye of the beholder.

Just be sure they're well designed. You want freedom of leg movement and a waistband that won't sag or bag as you hike through your day.

Try these technical legging on your next hike:

Sizes XXS - XL and lots of stretch in these Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights.

But take a close look at the strategic reinforcement on these hiking leggings. They'll last a long time for your investment!

The adjustable waist prevents them from sagging, too. And that feature is handy for that time of the month, right?


Details at REI

If you're on a hiking clothing budget, be sure to check REI for sales on leggings and tights for hikers here. You can score some serious deals!


Are yoga pants good for hiking?

Everything just noted above for leggings applies here as well.

You want well designed yoga pants if you're going to be taking them out of a yoga studio.

Read my review of a pair of prAna yoga pants. I wear them for yoga class as well as hiking, and find them suitable for moderate hiking plans in mild weather.

They also go nicely under rain pants and act as a thin base layer when temperatures dip.

See lots more examples that will do well on your next hike.

Now it's time to get short with you.


The best hiking shorts for women

OK, back to our list of hiking clothing essentials...

Let's say a few words about the best women's hiking shorts. They are a solid choice for what to wear when hiking in hot weather.

The best hiking shorts are:

  • long enough to scramble up a hillside without flashing the world
  • loaded with pockets to hold trail snacks, lip balm, and more
  • durable enough to stand up to "butt belays" over rocks and roots
  • fast drying nylon to keep me comfortable in any weather
  • UPF protective material
  • available in colors that hide trail dirt (dark) or keep me cool (light)

How short do you like your shorts?

Lots of options!

Details at REI

These Black Diamond rugged shorts are great for warm and hot weather hikes because of the short inseam (5.5 inches), allowing you to vent body heat quickly.

They have a bit of stretch, and a back pocket for snacks or small trail gear.

Is that too much leg exposure for the mosquitoes and spiny branches you'll encounter on your hike?

Details at REI

These shorts have a 9 inch inseam, covering more thigh area.

Same durable, lightweight and stretchy fabric as those Sahara pants above.

Sizes 0 - 26W



Don't forget those zip off hiking pants you looked at just a moment ago.

  • They convert to shorts in one easy move!
  • And back again, in an endless circle of hiking versatility.

Before you move on, here are even more trustworthy tips for finding the best womens hiking shorts.

And you can read a HFH review of some Title Nine hiking shorts by Kuhl, paired with a great tank top, right here.



Skirts to hike in

Some women swear by hiking skirts, regardless of the weather or the trail. That link takes you to some testimonials.

It's easy to think of a hiking skirt on a hot summer trail: bare legs mean more ventilation.

Another obvious advantage?

  • Pit stops (pee breaks) are really easy, and if you get good enough, squatting is a thing of the past.

Do you stick to established trails?

Are you comfortable with adding leggings to your hiking outfit for cool weather?

You can take a hiking skirt for a spin on more than just summer trails if you know a few layering tricks!



The best womens hiking shirts

Hiking shirts: lots of options!

Before we get into recommendations, a few quick tips:

Always choose quick drying, moisture wicking fabrics.

  • Be sure they will accept spot removers without fading the fabric.

Look for sun protective weaves, with UPF ratings (more info on that here).

Cotton tends to be too heavy, and not good at releasing moisture or odors.

Also, cotton doesn't stand up well to the dozens of washings each year a hiker puts trail clothing through. Cotton shirts tend to fade and get misshapen.

  • Cotton also hangs on to food spills, perspiration and stains.

However, it feels great in hot desert conditions. So don't rule it out completely.


Why shirt sleeve length
matters

Long sleeved shirts for cold weather? They should be able to wick away perspiration without leaving you a soggy mess.

  • No tight cuffs or collars, please.
  • You want hiking clothing to provide you with full range of motion as you are scrambling up rocks or snow banks.


Short sleeved shirts are great for spring and fall layering under a jacket.

  • A V or U neck gives you the most room for full head and neck movement on the trail.

This Patagonia Cool Lightweight shirt is made of capilene. Perfect for temperature regulation, and moisture wicking.

Comfortable, nice easy cut, and pretty colors, too.

Details at REI

But sometimes a versatile long sleeve shirt can take the place of a short sleeve shirt. This gives you an array of hiking clothing options but doesn't add bulk to your pack.

This REI Co-op Sahara shirt has so many nice features:

  • sizes XS - 2X
  • UPF 50 fabric
  • cool, moisture-wicking stretch nylon
  • adjustable sleeves


What about wearing tank tops on a hike?

Sure, I use sleeveless shirts ("tank tops") in warm weather because I heat up fast.

But here's a tip:

Avoid tank top styles with super narrow straps. These shirts leave you vulnerable to chafing from pack straps.


The examples of trail worthy shirts above will give you an idea of how you can layer these shirts, too:

  • A sleeveless top beneath the long sleeve shirt for cool summer mornings is one way to go.
Female hiker sitting on a blue tarp in the snow surrounded by her hiking gearSometimes the less hiking clothing, the better!


Great hiking jackets for all seasons

Hiking jackets...

Can a woman ever have too many hiking jackets in her trail wardrobe??

Some women are crazy about jewelry. Me? I'm crazy about hiking jackets. They're my favorite piece of hiking clothing.

And it's not because I'm vain!

  • Mother Nature forces me into it :)

The best hiking rain jackets keep me dry and warm - no hiking hypothermia for me, thank you very much.

So let's start with a worst case scenario: a rainy day on the trail.

Choose your rain jacket with care

Here's how to choose a great rain jacket for your outer layer of weather protection.

  • Look for breathable and machine washable fabrics. Check that you can keep them waterproofed in your own washing machine by adding NikWax. 
  • See the entire universe of NikWax waterproofing and water repellency options here.

Details at REI

Lots to like about this REI Rainier rain jacket.

It has a low price point for all the features you get:

  • recycled nylon
  • windproof
  • sealed seams
  • zip pockets
  • three piece hood
  • pit zips



This jacket is a more technical rain choice.

It's a GORETEX breathable shell, so layer beneath it for warmth.

Available in plus sizes as well.

  • REI Co-op XeroDry GTX

Details at REI


Does fleece make a good rain jacket?

A question that comes into the Hiking For Her mailbox quite often is about using fleece as an outer layer.

You can rely on fleece jackets keep you warm when temperatures dip into the thirties and below.

Fleece maintains some body warmth while wet, but don't rely upon it as rock solid rain gear.

  • Instead, be sure your rain jacket fits over your favorite fleece garments.


Winter jackets for cold weather hiking

Winter jackets keep you dry AND toasty on chilly fall trails or on a snowshoe hike.

Pick the features that mean the most to you.

Here's where I invest the most money to enjoy:

  • a looser fit so it goes over my layers 
  • several pockets to stow gloves and hats and lip balm
  • waterproof outer layer and a zip-out inner shell so I can adjust the warmth factor
  • a detachable hood, rolled up when not needed 
  • cut a bit longer in back so when I sit down on something cold I have an extra layer of insulation
  • adjustable cuffs (usually velcro - avoid snaps or buttons) so I can get the sleeves over my gloves/mittens

Also look for taped seams and zippers that are managed with ease when your hands are cold.

Heads up!

These are examples of good hiking jackets found at REI.

By the time you read these words, they may have been marked down, or replaced with something similar. It's all part of the hunt for great hiking clothing.

If you get a "no longer available" message? Click the "shop similar products" link and you'll see more great examples of hiking jackets. (It's tough to keep up with REI's ever changing inventory.)

This jacket is lightweight and sheds water.

Lots of room in the arms for free movement.

The zipper covers your chin, and the pockets accommodate gloves.


Look for a snug hood like this one to block wind and help keep your face and ears warm.

An insulated jacket like this Powderbound eliminates the need for a mid layer, but if it's roomy enough you can always add that vest!

This one is also available in plus sizes.

Be sure to choose a jacket that fits your arm length but accommodates your layering system.


A word of advice for beginner hikers
about how to shop for hiking clothing

Wait for end-of-season sales if you can, and score a fabulous jacket with all of those bells and whistles.

Otherwise the sticker shock of a warm jacket just might be detrimental to your hiking health budget.

Or make it easy:

  • The photos above take you to (potential) sales prices at REI Co-op, along with details on each jacket.
  • If the exact jacket isn't featured, you'll be taken to similar options.


Wind proof hiking jackets -
an important subset

Windproof jackets (a review) like these options, are worn over your layering system. This keeps you toasty warm while the wind howls.

A few things to note:

The North Face Shelbe Raschel Hoodie soft-shell jacket is built for layering over other clothing.

It's designed to handle moisture, wind and cold!


A few more jacket tips for you

How about some general purchasing tips for your jacket quest? Here they are!

Look for these important features in your wind proof hiking jacket:

  • ripstop, moisture proof fabric 
  • a kangaroo pouch or deep zip pockets to store small stuff 
  • a hood that cinches down around your ears and keeps your hat on
  • an easy on & off style

Go for a looser fit.You will be pulling this jacket out of your pack and whipping it on super fast when the wind whips up.

Of course, there will be days when you don't need a jacket at all!



Versatile hiking vests

Please don't overlook or dismiss the versatility of mid layer vests.

Throw one in your backpack for all seasons on the trail.

Fleece vests are my favorite mid layer of hiking clothing for snowshoeing!

You can also use them as a midlayer when starting out on summer trails early in the morning.

  • Fleece blocks wind as well as down, and better when wet.
  • Make a great pillow for a post-lunch nap, too!

This is the vest I recommend: Patagonia Los Gatos Fleece Vest.

Details at REI

It's made of 50% recycled, double sided polyester fleece.

Warm, cozy and water repellent!

Not a fan of fleece?

Use a thin down vest like this one instead, called Nano Puff.

Let's call out some features:

  • Stylish enough to wear off the trail
  • Insulates you when wet
  • Packs down small inside your backpack
  • Also makes a comfy pillow or neck support inside the tent
  • Wide size range: XS - 3X

What's not to love?

Details at REI


More hiking clothing for female hikers
to consider:
an array of hiking hats

If you're in a hurry, here are all the details on how to choose hiking hats.

Hats are an example of hiking clothing that lets your personality shine through.

So many styles and colors - which is right for you?

As a hiking woman, consider 2 things over and beyond your personality:

  • your hairstyle 
  • AND your backpack

A ponytail or bun will make your hat fit funny.

Here's the fix: pull the tail out through the back of the hat.

So before we look at hats, let's consider hiking headbands that keep your hair out of your face.

Ever try a "ponytail headband"?

  • You pull your ponytail through a hole in the back.
  • It accomplishes 2 things: warm ears, and a tidy tail.

It's the one I use all the time.


And a cozy headband to cover your ears on a frigid day on the trail sounds good, doesn't it!

I stash one in the top pocket of my backpack, or my jacket pocket, so I can don it or store it as needed.

Stretch fleece ear bands like this one are ideal to keep body heat where it belongs.  They don't block sound, a good safety feature.

And they don't feel constraining. 

Details at REI


Choosing the right hats can be tricky...
unless you know a few tricks

Even if you have short hair, a big hat will bump the back of your pack with each step - definitely annoying.

  • Even headache inducing!

A baseball cap might do the trick for shading your eyes on a sunny day but be the worst possible choice on a rainy day. Ever had to endure the steady drip of cold rain down your neck?

  • Count yourself lucky if you answered no!

I have many different hats, all chosen after much trial (trail?) and error, to cover the range of weather possibilities:

  • a rain hat with a wide brim that cinches down around my chin in windy weather,
  • a snug felt-lined woolen hat with no brim for cold weather. It provides plenty of great ear coverage (handmade in Iceland, a memento of a great trip) 
  • an earflap hat for those cold and/or snowy days
  • a baseball cap style with a brim to shield my eyes on sunny days
  • a "dork hat" (so named for the way it makes me look). It's used on hot sunny days to shade not just my eyes, but my entire upper body with its wide brim

Here's Outdoor Research's Seattle Sombrero for your viewing (and trail) pleasure.

Details at REI

From an admitted hat enthusiast, here are more examples of worthy hiking hats. Please consider adding them to your hiking clothing repertoire. 

This is one of my favorite styles of hiking hats.

It's adjustable without catching your hair in the back.

And its broad brim blocks UV rays from your eyes and face.

Details at REI

A beanie style head cover is a smart choice for underneath a jacket hood.

This Smartwool Merino beanie rolls up small, but traps a lot of heat on your head and feels good over your ears.

Details at REI

Speaking of ears!

Full ear coverage on a sunny day is important if your skin is sensitive to burning.

Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat gives youcoverage:

  • 3 in. folding clamshell brim
  • 6 in. neck cape
Details at REI

Maybe we're having way too much fun with hiking hats.

On to the next piece of hiking clothing to add to your gear list!



Versatile bandannas

Here's another chance to flaunt your personal style as you don your hiking clothing!

These amazing little beauties soak up sweat.

They're handy for dunking into ice cold streams to cool you off fast.

And they come in an eye popping array of colors and fabrics.

One tiny square of fabric, so many uses!

  • Never leave home without this time honored functional piece of hiking clothing.

Bandannas (a full explanation) are my 11th Essential.



Hiking gloves - why you need
more than one pair!

Gloves: I have yet to find the ideal pair, but I never give up searching through bargain bins.

To see the styles and brands I wear, read this.

  • For snowshoeing, I prefer finger gloves over mittens so that I can get my big old snowshoes on and off when it's cold.
  • For hiking on chilly mornings, a thin pair of gloves work great, and in fact I carry 2 pairs to swap out when one pair gets wet.
  • For spring and fall hiking, I have a pair of fleece mittens that fold back. They have magnets to hold the mitten part back, to reveal finger gloves underneath.
  • For sunny days when I want to protect my skin from excessive UV exposure, I use these sun gloves!

I also carry a heavy duty pair of mittens for winter snowshoeing expeditions. These are life savers when the wind kicks up and my hands feel like claws around my hiking poles.

Need some examples of what's on the market?

This pair of hiking gloves is nice because it won't weigh you own: Seirus Xtreme Hyperlite gloves.


Remove the bulky mittens to make gear adjustments. You won't compromise hand warmth or dexterity.

Versatile, too. Use them as liners beneath those heavy duty mittens I mentioned.

Details at REI


These are Black Diamond midweight gloves, for cold and damp conditions.

If you hike with a smartphone for taking photos or GPS navigation, you'll appreciate the touch screen compatibility.

Details at REI

Are jeans good for hiking?

This is a common question for beginner hikers, so let's answer it.

Your favorite pair of jeans are a comfortable choice for daily activities.

But they will work against you on the trail.

  • The thick seams will chafe your skin at your most vulnerable, tender points on your waist and legs.
  • The trim fit can't provide enough leg room for knee bends and swinging your legs along the trail.

And let's answer the most important question you can ask about wearing cotton jeans on a hike.

Why is cotton bad for hiking?

Cotton traps moisture against your skin. And it is reluctant to release it.

That makes wet cotton heavy and soggy.

This doesn't sound like such a tragedy when you're in your own backyard mowing the grass, or on a run around a local park.

You can change out of that soggy pair of jeans, or shirt, in a jiffy!

But when you're on a hiking trail, you want moisture wicking materials to channel it away from your skin.

And you don't want your hiking fabrics to hold onto the odors of perspiration and trail dirt, do you?

As a hiker, it pays big dividends in comfort and safety to avoid cotton in hiking clothing.

Make time to seek out the best hiking clothing made from the best fabrics for hikers.

And now you know exactly how to do that, by using this guide!


Is this the end of the best 
hiking clothing guide?

Whew! We covered a lot of territory in this Hiking For Her hiking clothing guide.

And you hung in there with me!

Congrats :)

But you may be wondering if there are any other things you need to know about how to shop for women's outdoor clothes.

Like this question...


Where to shop for the
best hiking clothing?

What do you do when faced with the bewildering array of women's hiking clothing?

You can buy brand name hiking apparel from trusted sources. That's what this guide is about.

You can troll the bargain bins and discount deals of online outlets and gear companies.

However you choose to shop, now you know!

Hiking clothes have special features you need to pay attention to for comfort on the trail.

Because who wants to hike in less than the best hiking clothing?

  • Your adventure apparel should be top notch. Full stop!



Shopping tip

As a member of REI Co-op in the U.S., you're going to receive member rewards that save you money and time.

REI helps you learn new things and travel to new places.

It provides events where you can meet some trail buddies.

And so much more.


Be brand loyal when it makes sense

I've learned to stick with the brands that deliver the goods, trail mile after trail mile.

If you're just starting to ask the question "what to wear hiking", read this first.

Need some suggestions for beginner hiking gear and clothing?

If you want to cut to the chase and get a glimpse into my "athletic clothing for women" closet space, go here.

  • I name the names I trust, and explain my logic in light of my long experience with these brands.


An important aside:
how to score some free hiking clothing

Hiking For Her firmly believes in making things easy.

What could be easier than free hiking clothing? Durable, moisture wicking, and designed for women!

  • Past giveaways included bandannas, hiking socks, trail dresses, hiking shirts, trail pants and hiking layering systems.

Check the HFH giveaways each month.

You might see a chance to enter to win some fabulous active wear.

It will transition easily onto the trail, and off again, because it's built that way.


That should wrap things up!
(we've got you covered )

Which is a little hint to ask for some of the best hiking clothing for your next birthday or holiday.

If you don't ask, you don't receive, right?

Now you know which hiking clothes to wear. Don't be shy about asking for additions to your hiking attire wardrobe.

For even more hiking gift ideas, read these tips.

And if your gift givers are on a budget, here are some ideas for hiking gear less than $25.


Now here's a little wrap up

There are DO and DON'T rules for what to wear hiking, and I've summarized them right here for you!

What to wear hiking is a hot topic with women hikers. Tips from Hiking For Her will get you on the trail in style and comfort. #whattowearhiking #hiking #backpacking #hikingclothes #outdoorclothing


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What To Wear On A Hike: Women's Best Hiking Clothing


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