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What To Wear On A Summer Hike
Summer hikes are a fantastic way to embrace the great outdoors while you soak up the sunny weather and enjoy nature's beauty! But when you're hitting the trails in summer, wearing the right outfit can be the difference between having an unforgettable experience in the great outdoors or coming back a sweaty, uncomfortable mess. Choosing breathable, well-ventilated and sun-protective garments is definitely the way to ensure you stay cool and comfy on your bushwalk.
But if you don't know your moisture-wicking materials from your merino wool, relax - we've got you covered (literally!). You can count on Anaconda for all the essentials you'll need to make a summer hike as invigorating as it is enjoyable!
Quick Links
- What To Look For In Summer Hiking Clothing
- Shirts & Tops For Summer Hiking
- Pants & Shorts For Summer Hiking
- Socks For Summer Hiking
- Hats For Summer Hiking
- Accessories & Extras For Summer Hiking
- Tips For A Better Summer Hiking Experience
What To Look For In Summer Hiking Clothing
When you're deciding what to wear on a summer hike, there's a few things to keep in mind. Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics made from synthetic materials or merino wool that'll wick moisture away from your skin so you can keep cool and dry as you tackle the trails.
Versatile pieces like convertible pants that zip off to become shorts are great for helping you adapt to changing temperatures quickly and easily, without having to carry extra gear. And don't forget sun protection - wearing long, loose-fitting pants and tops will not only protect you from UV, but can actually keep you cooler because the sun isn't hitting your skin. Seek clothing with UV-protection features, and always bring a hat and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun.
It's worth taking a bit of extra time to decide on your summer hiking clothes - it can make a world of difference when you're out on the trail!
Shirts & Tops For Summer Hiking
When deciding which men's shirts and tops, women's hiking shirts and tops and kids' shirts and tops to wear on a summer hike, there are a few things to look for. First, you'll want a shirt that covers your shoulders to protect you from the sun and stop your hiking pack from chafing your skin.
Choosing one with long sleeves, a high UV-protection rating and moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or merino wool are a good idea too. Look for breathable designs with vents or mesh panels to enhance airflow, and make sure your shirt or top has a comfortable, relaxed fit for freedom of movement. Finally, features like adjustable sleeves or zippered pockets are always a nice thing to have in your summer hiking clothes.
Pants & Shorts For Summer Hiking
A pair of comfortable shorts is a natural choice for hiking, but don't discount the idea of pants when deciding what to wear on a hike in summer. As long as they're loose-fitting and well-vented, a pair of men's outdoor and hiking pants, women's outdoor and hiking pants or kids' outdoor and hiking pants can be an astute choice. They'll protect your legs from not just the sun, but also any branches and thorns - or anything else that might scratch and scrape against you on the trail.
If you do opt for shorts, choose a pair that's lightweight and moisture-wicking, and adjustable for extra comfort. And remember, you don't have to choose one or the other - a pair of convertible pants will give you the best of both worlds!
Socks For Summer Hiking
When you're planning what to wear on a summer hike, it's easy to overlook one garment in particular - your socks. They may seem like an afterthought, but if you wear the wrong men's socks, women's socks or kids' socks you could wind up with sweaty, uncomfortable feet at least - and a nasty blister at worst! As with almost everything on this list, breathable, moisture-wicking materials like merino wool are the way to go, and features like cushioning and arch support will make a big difference in your overall comfort.
Hats For Summer Hiking
The right hat can make all the difference in your hiking adventure! When choosing a hat to go with what you'll wear on a summer hike, look for one that offers both sun protection and breathability. A lightweight hat with a wide brim is ideal for providing extra shade for your face and neck, and adjustable straps will help ensure a secure fit during windy conditions. Look for hats with ventilation panels or mesh for better airflow, made from materials with a UPF rating of 50+ to ensure maximum defence against harmful UV rays.
Accessories & Extras For Summer Hiking
- Hydration: By definition, hiking in summer means you're going to get hot and thirsty. Camping and hiking hydration is key, whether you opt for a simple water bottle or a full hydration pack.
- First aid: You may never need it, but having a compact first aid kit on your hiking trip is a sensible precaution.
- Hiking poles: Give yourself extra stability on the trail and make the hike easier with a pair of walking and hiking poles.
- Navigation and communication: Find your way on your summer hike by bringing along a GPS navigator, and stay in touch with Personal Locator Beacons (PLB) and satellite communicators.
Tips For A Better Summer Hiking Experience
- Choose light colours: Dark clothing will make you warmer on a summer hike, so opt for white garments or lighter tones.
- Bring plenty of water: On a summer hike, you'll generally need 500 ml of water per hour, but you may want more if it's especially hot. Err on the side of bringing more than you think you'll need.
- Pick your time: Hiking in the morning or afternoon is going to be much more pleasant than trekking in the midday heat, so pick the optimal time to set out.
- Choose the best route: If the day's going to be particularly hot, look for a path that has plenty of shade and isn't too hilly or strenuous.
- Listen to your body: If you start to feel exhausted or unwell, take a break, have a drink and some snacks, and don't be reluctant to head back if you're not up to pressing on.
Find All Your Summer Hiking Clothes & Much More At Anaconda
Summer hiking offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, with warm sunshine, fresh air and the satisfaction of mastering the trail making every step a joy! And now that you know what to wear for a hike in summer, you can enjoy the experience in comfort.
Make sure you have everything you need for all your summer activities by exploring our entire range of camping and hiking tents, hiking packs and camping beds and sleeping gear at Anaconda. Plus, check out our Adventure Centre for helpful tips on getting the most out of your summertime excursions, such as:
