by Diane Spicer
Searching for the best plus size womens outdoor clothing (also called extended sizes) for hikers?
You know, hiking clothes which fit and look good?
It's hard to find.
Somehow, it's difficult for most outdoor gear companies to fathom the reality on the trail.
Women hikers come in all ages, sizes, shapes and heights.
What a frustrating experience!
You're in the right spot if you're looking for ideas on what to wear hiking.
That includes:
Hiking For Her is an affiliate of the brands on this page, for one reason: they make good stuff!
If you buy through the links on this website, you pay nothing extra. HFH receives a small percentage of your sales price.
Ever have this happen to you?
You go into an outdoor clothing retail shop.
You spend a few minutes browsing through the selections.
You look at the hiking pants, hiking shirts, rain gear and other womens hiking apparel and active wear.
You continue to search for your size.
Nada.
As in zip. Zilch.
Nothing.
Frustration turns to anger.
Please don't take the lack of women's extended sizes in hiking clothes personally.
Someday soon, size inclusive hiking clothing will be a reality.
From every outdoor retailer.
Why do I make that prediction?
A few of the leading outdoor clothing brands, names like REI Co-op and Columbia, offer more plus sizes.
And there are women owned stores at the forefront of the movement, making good strides.
Keep reading as we name some names.
Don't waste any more time in frustration or anger as you shop for extended size outdoor clothing.
Instead, go straight to the outdoor gear companies who pay attention.
They have selections for all women hikers.
That includes those of us who are not served by the size range that most hiking clothes in the U.S. and Canada.
Every time you visit their store or website, let them know that your needs exist.
And don't be shy about sending them feedback and posting reviews of their products.
Hitting the trail isn't a privilege for women "of a certain size", right?
REI Co-op continues to add options every season, most in the 1X to 3X range, and you can get an overview of their selection here.
More to love about REI: When you become a member (one time $20 fee), you receive a 10% rebate on your annual qualifying purchases.
Plus:
Read more about the REI Co-op member rewards here.
Now, let's zoom in for a closer look at examples of plus size womens outdoor
clothing that work well on the trail.
Columbia also has another option in plus size womens outdoor clothing well worth a look:
These convertible pants feature lower legs that zip off fast to convert to shorts, They are available in two different length options, and they're called the Saturday Trail pants. Take a look at these because they have:
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If you'd prefer knee length trail pants in this style, here they are!
Heading out on chilly trails in the fall?
You need more layers!
Here's your fall hiking clothing guide.
Works great for springtime hikes, too.
REI also offers waterproof rain pants at various price points.
Here's a good pair for summer hiking:
These pants pack down small until you need them. The elastic waistband with draw cord accommodates your clothing layering system. The zippered leg vents mean you don't have to take off your boots to get these pants on when you feel the first rain drops. |
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The right pair of rain pants can make or break a hike, so match them to your hiking plans. This pair has more technical features to stand up to rugged weather, and thus a higher price point. Read my review for all the reasons why I wear them year round. |
L.L. Bean makes these Comfort Trail Pants.
Great features to customize your fit, including:
Worthy trail features include:
These are also available in a cropped version. Your calves will have more ventilation in warmer hiking weather.
Trail tip:
Get a few ideas for the best hiking underwear to wear under your pants and shorts here.
Would you rather hike in shorts?
Or take a look at this great example of plus size women's outdoor clothing:
These Columbia Saturday Trail hiking shorts check all the boxes for a hiker:
Sometimes it feels good to pull on a pair of cozy leggings.
You can head off down the trail, knowing that you have the stretchy fabric for full movement.
Plus, the coverage to keep you out of harm's way on the trail.
Five color choices, so you can have one for every hiking season and then some.
This shirt is going to work hard for you on the trail, and look good, too.
Columbia's extended sizing options to the rescue again!
32 Degrees is a company beginning to land on the radar for hiking women.
Why?
Due to their affordable price points and extended sizing.
When warm weather hiking trails beckon you, you want to stay as cool and dry as possible.
And you know you'll work up a sweat, gaining that view point or perfect campsite.
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How about this prAna Becksa tank top? Layer it beneath a long sleeve shirt, and you're ready for when the day heats up. |
Here's a nice scoop neck hiking shirt option, REI Co-op's Sahara T shirt. Love the soft moisture wicking fabric. And it's a nice sleeve length for a summer hike. In sizes 1X - 3X, three color choices. |
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For great choices in tank tops for dry, hot hiking, check out these soft stretch Core 10 tops.
Not everyone is on board with hiking in a skirt.
If you are a fan of leg freedom, you have some mighty fine options for the trail.
Need a supportive yet comfortable plus size sports bra under that shirt?
Of course you do! Who doesn't!
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This bra is available in D and DD cups. Its support eliminates the need to double up on flimsy sports bras when you hit the trail. You have a lot of options at Title Nine. |
Want more options for a great hiking sports bra?
You deserve high performance technical hiking clothing that fits and looks great.
Hopefully the ideas on this page will help you find it.
Just a few more ideas before you go...
1. Don't be discouraged if your size and fit is hard to find in hiking attire.
2. Start by looking at the styles and companies mentioned here, because lots of other hiking women have recommended them.
3. Look at Juno for a full line of womens active wear in your size, too.
4. Check out Alder Apparel, with outdoor clothing in sizes up to 4x.
4. Send me your questions about plus size womens outdoor clothing for hiking, and I'll be happy to answer them.
I've gathered lots more extended size hiking clothing options for you here, too.
Happy trails to you!
Home page > Best Hiking Gear >
Best Plus Size Womens Hiking Outfits
Diane is the founder of Hiking For Her.
She’s been on a hiking trail somewhere in the world for nearly five decades, and loves to share her best hiking tips right here.
Would you like to support Hiking For Her's mission to get women of all ages, sizes and abilities onto hiking trails?
Purchase your outdoor clothing through the links on this page, and a small amount of money flows into HFH's coffers to keep the hiking tips flowing freely to you.
Best part? It costs you nothing extra :)
Thank you!
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