Hiking Fashion Ideas // What To Wear Hiking Clothes

Are you looking for hiking fashion? Or just want to know the best hiking outfits ideas out there?

We got you covered.

Hiking is a tough sport! Your gear should be tough too. We’ve rounded up the best hiking clothes for women, so you can be ready for anything Mother Nature has to throw at you!

Oh, and besides being able to take on the grit of the trial, you’ll also look good at the same time. 

Here are the best hiking clothes that every woman needs:

1. Hiking pant
2. Midweight Base Layer Crew Top
3. Short Sleeve Hiking Tee
4. Long Sleeve Top
5. Breathable Leggings
6. Hiking Shorts for Women
7. Hiking Shell Jacket
8. Hiking Socks
9. Sport Bra
10. Waterproof Hiking Boots

Best Hiking Clothes for Women 

A backdrop of tall pines and lungs full of crisp air is about all you need to enjoy a great hike.

The beauty of the outdoors is unarguable, but in order to enjoy it to its fullest, you need to be prepared.

It’s essential to be ready for the demands of the trail and set for any weather conditions. Below our selection of hiking outfits for ladies:

1. Fjallraven’s Keb Pant

The women’s Keb Pant by Fjallraven is the hiking world’s most perfect pants. Like a technical version of utility jeans, these fitted pants include vents, lots of pockets, and are rugged as hell.

They are majorly durable, fortified where it counts and will last you for ages. Plus, they’re superbly fit and will be the envy of all the other hikers. 

2. REI Co-op Midweight Base Layer Crew Top

REI is a leader in affordable outdoor gear. This mid-weight crew top is smooth, moisture-wicking, and stretchy, making it an excellent base layer.

It’s got a great women’s fit and even protects against sun exposure with 50+ UPF. 

3. Short Sleeve Hiking Tee

You can’t get much better quality than Patagonia when it comes to sustainable and ethically made clothing.

This hiking tee is made from recycled polyester and includes odor control qualities, quick-drying material, and a super soft feel.

When you go with Patagonia, you’ll get an incredible product and support an amazing business. 

4. Long Sleeve Top

When you need a bit more warmth over your thin base layer, this long sleeve top is an awesome choice.

With a quarter-zip neck, you can quickly open it up to help you cool down when you’re working hard to hike uphill.

Thumb loops on the sleeve make it easy as pie to slide your arms into a jacket without having your tee bunch up inside.

Down to the detail, this is everything you want in a long sleeve top!

5. Leggings

Enough can’t be said about how important the quality of your base layer is. It can truly make or break your hiking experience.

These leggings by Mountain Hardwear feature chafe-free seams and a warming merino wool material. With a good fit, but plenty of stretch, you’ll have all the room you need to boulder around that crag. 

6. Warm Yet Breathable Leggings

For lighter hiking, these leggings are all you need to layer on. Stretchy and breathable fabric is super comfortable and won’t dig into any spots while you’re on the move.

You’ll be free of uncomfortable chafing and protected from the sun with UPF 50 from waist to ankle. 

7. Hiking Shorts for Women

Another winner by Fjallraven is this pair of simple hiking shorts. A minimalist’s dream, they are lightweight and perfect for hot summer trips.

The fit is very comfortable, and also adjustable with the waist drawstring.

These shorts are so comfy, you won’t mind wearing them into the night while you chill by the campfire after a long day of hiking.  

8. Women’s Hiking Shell Jacket

You never know what to expect from the sky when you’re out in the hills. Stay ready with this Drypoint Gore-Tex waterproof and windproof shell.

It’ll keep the wind out but also let your body breathe and allow you lots of adjustability with the hood, sleeves, and bottom hem cords and straps.  

9. Vests

Keeping your core warm is rule #1 in the proper hiking guidebook. Sometimes, all you need is a good base layer and an insulating vest.

Here is Patagonia’s rockstar hooded down vest.

A sturdy exterior and recycled down layer means that you’ll be protected from the elements and plenty warm.

Better still, there’s a hood with adjustable drawcords and the same level of insulation to keep your noggin just as toasty. 

10. Women’s Hiking Midlayer

The Better Sweater Fleece Jacket by Patagonia is a total icon. With a knit construction and fleece interior, this is the essence of soft and cozy.

The design of this sweater was meticulous with ultimate comfort in mind.

A stand-up collar, handwarmer pockets, and zipper wind flap all work to keep you warm. And as always with Patagonia, low-impact dyes and sustainable construction were used.  

11. Best Hiking Down Jacket for Women

A puffy down shell is quintessential hiking gear. Just putting this jacket on makes you look like a pro.

It includes comfort features like the soft inner cuff and close-to-body fit.

The adjustment points are quick to access and easy to use. And when you’re getting too warm, pack it down into its storage pocket to clip it to your pack and keep blazing down the trail.

12. Insulating Vest

The perfect choice for the layering minimalist is this insulating vest. With a down-fill and recycled nylon shell, this vest will keep you warm and repel the elements.

It’s very lightweight and packable, so it makes a great choice to start with for the chilly mornings with an easy option to downgrade when the sun comes up.

13. Best Hiking Socks

There’s an easy choice when it comes to hiking socks, and that’s Darn Tough. You know the comfort of your feet might just be the most important consideration.

This superfine merino sock is moisture-wicking and helps to regulate your temperature.

It’s non-cushioned and offers a thin profile and crew-cut height. 

14. Hiking Sports Bra

Keep the girls comfortable and under control with Patagonia’s Barely Sports Bra.

You’ll feel like you aren’t wearing anything in the best way possible.

Even though this soft and light fabric is just that, the unique construction will support up to a C cup.

So you know this bra will stay put and stay fresh.

15. Hiking Underwear for Women

The ultimate base layer – active underwear! It’s got to be stretchy, breathable, moisture-wicking, antimicrobial, and odor-reducing.

That’s a lot ot live up to, but REI has got your bum covered on this one.

This pick from REI Co-op checks all of those boxes and more.

Your nethers are the last place you want chafing, and these knickers will battle the rub and you won’t even notice they’re there.  

16. Bikini Underwear

Take your undies to the next level in comfort with the IceBreaker Siren Bikini. With a slim silhouette and merino wool material, you’ll be cutting corners while staying toasty.

This ultra-soft bikini underwear will feel like butter next to your skin and keep you chafe-free, odor-resistant, and dry quickly! 

What To Wear When Hiking In Fall 

The leaves start dancing down to the ground and the sun rays shift to golden. Autumn is here to open up the canopy and dazzle you with hues of yellow and rust.

Be ready for the chill so you don’t have to turn back early on those Fall hikes. 

Dressing for Fall hiking takes mindfulness and preparation. With a mix of the seasons, you need to be ready for cold and wet conditions or hot and steamy conditions, all in the same season.

We’ve done the hard work for you by rounding up the best layering options so you can spend more brain-power on planning out your routes and hiking noshes (trail mix, always). 

1. Short-Sleeve Hiking Tee

Patagonia is always number one in our book. Start your layers with this Cool Daily shirt as a silky smooth next to skin piece that gives you versatility in your outfit.

It dries super-fast, is stretchy, and will stay soft wash after wash. Recycled fabric and fair-trade sewing were used, as in classic Patagonia commitment. 

2. Warm Yet Breathable Leggings

Leggings are an excellent choice in lower-body layering or used as a solo piece.

This pair by REI has flat seams for chafing prevention, reflective accents for low-visibility conditions, and a wide waistband for the most comfortable fit.

They offer the perfect combination of breathability and warmth, as well as support and maneuverability. 

Fall Hiking Midweight Layers

1. Long Sleeve Top

Keep it zippy with this quarter-zip long sleeve pullover by REI.

To balance out the protection and warmth of the turtleneck collar, the quarter-zip down gives you the ability to open up the front for extra ventilation.

Little details like the thumb-loops, side security pocket, and reflective back accents add an extra touch of luxury. 

2. Insulated Vest

You’ve got your first layer on, now here’s your second. A vest is an essential part of a fall hiking outfit. It gives you core warmth and major breathability.

This vest by REI is full-length and made with a Responsible Down Standard fill. Though it’s very lightweight, it will provide a surprising amount of warmth. 

Fall Hiking Outer Layers 

1. Insulating Hoodie

If there is such a thing as glamour in the hiking world, Arc’teryx is it. They’ve somehow mastered impressive technicalities and sumptuous design in the same product.

This synthetic fill hoodie is a great choice for vegan hikers. Especially those that hit the trails hard.

A high level of breathability yet storm-proof durability make this hoodie a mean-trail mangler. 

2. Rain Jacket

The rain won’t stop you from enjoying those dirt chicanes. Named after the royal mountain of Washington State, REI’s Rainier Rain Jacket is a supreme choice for a weather protective shell.

With pit-zip ventilation, compact packability, and windproof up to 60mph, this jacket is a force. 

Fall Hiking Accessories

1. Gloves

If your hands turn into icicles when you’re out in the cold, it puts a major damper on your hiking trip. Avoid the frost with these Outdoor Research gloves.

Soft and stretchy fabric keeps your fingers nimble while touch-screen compatible sensor tips don’t shut down access to your screens. 

2. Polarized Sunglasses

Sun-glare can be a hiker’s worst enemy. If you’ve ever been subjected to it, you’ll remember the headache and vision spots you had for the rest of the day.

Keep those peepers protected with these Suncloud polarized lenses.

No matter where you are in nature: water, snow, urban paths, you’ll be guarded against those nasty bright blasts. 

3. Beanie

It’s said that the majority of heat loss while exercising in the cold occurs from your head. Shut that down by capping off with a cozy beanie like this one from REI.

A warm head will keep you outside longer and that’s exactly where you want to be.

Not only is this cap comfy, but it also features a charming Nordic design. 

4. Buff Original Multifunctional Headwear

You don’t have a buff yet? Where have you been! This multi-functional headwear is amazingly versatile.

You’ll wonder what took you so long to get one. Use it to fit your exact needs by wearing it as a bandana, headband, scarf, or headwear liner.

Besides keeping out the cold weather, it will also protect you from those sneaky UV rays. 

Fall Hiking Footwear

1. Wool Socks

Your socks should never be a compromise. If you’re splurging on anything, this should be it! Find the cut that fits your footwear: ankle, crew, calf, etc.

Then find the cushion to match your comfort needs: low profile, high cushion, or compression.

A good pair of socks keep you outside longer and help you avoid those fierce foot plagues like blisters and hot spots. 

2. Oboz Women´s Waterproof Hiking Shoes

A good pair of socks only goes so far if your shoes suck. These Oboz hiking boots are low-profile yet tough and protective.

They’ll shield your tootsies from rock, debris, cold, and wet. A soggy foot is no hiker’s friend.

But you know what is? A brand that will plant a tree for every pair of shoes sold.  

Hiking Outfit Ideas 

That dirt trail might not be a runway, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look good while you trek.

When you look good, you feel good and when you feel good, you look good.

And all that good condenses down into a trail sesh that’s not only dapper but comfortable and fresh. 

Having the right gear means that you’re out for longer, get to see more sights, and a have a greater chance of spotting that moose you’ve been hoping to see.

We found some first-rate additions to your hiking outfit by considering both style and utility together.

Take this hiking outfit for ladies as inspiration for your next weekend’s nature garb.

1. All-Season Crushable Hat

A good hat will do so much more than shield your eyes from the sun.

This Western-flare dome capper holds its shape against the elements but not against your hand.

Crush this baby down into your pack but don’t worry, it’ll pop right back into shape when you bring it out. 

2. Outdoor Research Yukon Cap

Deck out your noggin in hipster flare with this five-panel billed hat by REI.

Unsnap the fleece ear flaps when it gets chilly to keep your ears warm, which your eyes stay shaded under the bill.

When you warm back up, snap the flaps back to the top. Snip snap, easy.  

3. Cool Trail Shirt

Hiking tees don’t have to be blasé crews. This scoop-neck by Patagonia lends an elegant air to an otherwise expected bore.

The Capilene Cool Trail fabric is also fast drying, comfortable, soft, and lightweight.

With a drop tail hem, you don’t have to worry about it coming untucked from the back while you’re climbing too.  

4. Convertible Pants

These are exactly the mom-jeans of the trail that you’re looking for.

High-waisted, loose-fit, and ready to zip off pant legs to convert into shorts.

You won’t run out of pockets on these and the lightweight material will protect you from UV rays. 

5. Icebreaker 250 Vertex Base Layer Leggings

Add this extra layer under your trail pants to secure that warmth when you need it.

Constructed completely of merino wool with a comfortable elastic waistband, these pants are insulating and comfortable at the same time.

And that merino wool? It comes from Responsible Wool Standard farms. Nature loves you, make sure you love it back. 

6. Hiking Shorts

Harness all the extra inseam you need with these REI Sahara shorts. A relaxed fit and extra coverage ensure that the wear is pleasant and easy.

With four pockets, there is plenty of space for stashing trail snacks and collecting …rocks, or whatever you are stashing from the trail.  

7. Smartwool Liner Tech-Compatible Gloves

Smart wool comes in with these slim liner gloves to wear alone or layer under larger cold weather mittens.

Even if they end up getting wet, they’ll still hold in the heat for you.

You’ll get plenty of digit maneuverability and have no trouble accessing your devices thanks to the touch-screen compatible points.

There’s no point in having cold fingers while you Snapchat. 

8. Fleece Jackets

Here is some serious chill coverage with a sleek aesthetic. This hooded jacket has loads of stretch, a cozy fleece interior, breathability, and mesh-lined pockets.

The helmet-compatible hood won’t get in your way while scrambling up the rock face.

Slim enough to layer under a weather shell, this jacket is a terrifically comfy layer. 

9. Fleece Pants

Why should fleece be limited to jackets? REI made these double-velour fleece pants for layering under a shell or after-hike lounging.

If you’ve ever wanted to wear a blanket while you trek, these are the pants for you.

But unlike a blanket, they also feature zip pockets and an adjustable waist cord.  

10. Down Hoodies – Insulated Jackets

This REI Magma down hoodie lives up to its name. No, you won’t turn into a volcano when you wear it, but you will be able to tackle some frigid temps while staying heated inside.

The down layer extends into the hood, so your head isn’t left to fend for itself.

It’s also fitted and bulk-reducing, making it a domineering force against the cold.  

11. Columbia Arcadia Rainwear

A rain shell is an essential piece in a hiker’s closet. If you can’t take on the rain, you might as well stay home!

Don’t be grounded by the weather and check out this simple rain shell that keeps out the wetness but stays accessible with zippered pockets and adjustable drawcords. 

12. Women’s Sleeker Jacket

So it’s not going to rain but the forecast predicts heaps of wind.

No trouble, the legendary Patagonia Houdini jacket is there for you.

A rainbow of color choices is available for this ultra-lightweight wind shell.

Living up to its namesake, this jacket packs down super small, almost like magic.

It features a slim fit and can take on the harshness of the trail. 

13. KEEN Whisper Sandals

Expecting some hot and damp conditions? Forgo the boots for these hiking sandals.

Though you’ll get lots of ventilation and water drainage, your toes will stay protected from rocks and debris thanks to the toe guards.

Plenty of sole cushioning and elastic cord tightening make sure you stay comfortable for the long miles ahead. 

14. Waterproof Hiking Boots

These are low-cut and trail-ready hiking boots. If you feel constricted in ankle boots, this is the perfect choice for you.

Your ankles will stay free and clear, but your feet will stay sheltered thanks to the waterproof yet breathable build.

These boots can take on the rubble but keep your feet from feeling it. 

15. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots

A classic hiking boot shape is the inspiration behind these mid-rise boots.

Extra stability and protection will grant you the ability to wade through water and slush without letting it in.

Score some major traction with the Vibram outsoles and shock-absorbing midsoles. 

Summer Hiking Fashion

When the temperature rises, your hiking gear needs to change.

Shed the insulating layers and make room for more UV protection and ventilation.

Make the most of those summer trails and extended daylight hours by staying comfortable out there.

Use layers that can stack on and easily peel off to keep things versatile. Just like you, your outfit needs to hold up to the heat. 

Your gear should fight fatigue, odor, and moisture, so you can climb on without a worry.

Here’s our consolidated list of the best summer hiking fashion: 

1. Patagonia Houdini Jacket

If there is one thing you buy for your summer, but all season, hiking outfit it’s this Houdini Jacket by Patagonia. It’s a magic show of a wind shell.

You’ll likely find yourself reaching for it more often than you might expect.

It’s incredibly packable and super effective against the wind, moisture, and abrasions. 

2. Thunderlight Jacket

This gender-neutral storm jacket will keep out the weather while keeping your body breathing. There will be no stuffiness under this shell.

The visored hood adds an extra touch of protection from sunbeams or rain.

It’s an amazing value for the money and probably the best you can get at this price point. 

3. Active Pursuits 4.5″ Shorts

These ready to perform active shorts feature a built-in liner for extra moisture control and breathability.

Flat seams, wide waistband, and stretchy fabric aid in upping the comfort while waist drawcords let you finesse the perfect fit. 

4. Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoes – Women’s

Summer hiking shoes at their finest. This lower profile ankle cut boot by Merrill is completely supportive, waterproof, and an excellent debris guard.

As the self-proclaimed “Mother-Of-All-Boots”, it offers excellent shock absorption, stability, and sole support. 

5. COOLMAX EcoMade Socks

Your sock base layer needs to be durable yet low-profile.

These REI socks come with reinforced toes and heels so they are ready to log some serious miles.

Made from recycled materials, they are earth-friendly. They’re also foot-friendly with their breathable fabric and stretchy fit. 

6. Sun Runner Cap

Sun, be gone! This desert-style sun shield will work hard to keep out the rays, so you don’t get blazed by the sun on your summer hike.

Long neck shields roll up to pack into the cap itself for when you don’t need them.

The performance fabric is moisture-wicking, lightweight, breathable, and completely machine washable. 

Winter Hiking Safety: The Gear You Need To Hit The Trail 

The most intimidating of hiking terrains is the winter world. Not only can the trail be difficult, but the weather can also be treacherous.

The best thing you can do is be prepared for the cold and stay warm, dry, hydrated, and fueled. Don’t cut corners when it comes to winter hiking safety. 

When your gear is working for you, you have the liberty of spending your effort on enjoying your snow globe hike in the most magical of scenes.

Though it takes more preparation, winter hiking is one of the most rewarding! 

Here are our equipment recommendations for taming the wild winter and take on the chill. 

1. GPS device – 2 Way Satellite Communication

The FIRST thing we recommend is a 2-way satellite communicator.

You already know how to stay warm in the cold, and the next in line for safety is to know exactly where you are.

This mini device is palm-sized, so it won’t take up hardly any room in your pack.

And honestly, it’s worth every inch it does inhabit.

It will empower you with basic navigation, 2-way texting, no-gap coverage, and the ability to share your path online for your contacts to keep watch.

2. Osprey Mira Hydration Pack – 2.5 Liters

Carry all the gear you need in this Osprey Hydration Pack. Extra layers, trail food, and a 2.5-liter water bladder all fit easily in this handy backpack.

It’s got a great feel on the shoulders and is highly adjustable so you can find the perfect fit.

This pack was built for cold-weather use, as it features stow-on-the-go trekking poles and an integrated weather cover.  

3. Black Diamond Astro 175 Headlamp

The winter days are shorter and the evenings are darker. Don’t get stuck out longer than you expected without any light source.

This super-compact headlamp is easy to stow away and you will be relieved beyond belief to have it when you need it.

The light is super bright and includes dimmable and strobe modes.

To add to that, it’s storm-proof and can take on the snow and sleet and remain effective. 

4. Katadyn Micropur Purification Tablets

You can make it a few weeks without food…but water? No deal. Pack along these purification tablets to ensure that you always have access to clean and safe water.

You don’t need a bulky purification device to obtain drinkable water.

Drop 1 tablet into a quart of water, wait 30 min, and drink up. 

5. Katadyn BeFree Collapsible Water Filter Bottle

When you don’t want to bother with tablets and plan to gather your water as you go, this bottle with a built-in filter is your ticket.

It’s completely collapsible and takes up hardly any space when you’ve got it packed away.

This bottle just takes 1 minute to filter 2 liters of water, so you have super fast access to fluids.

Find that icy waterfall and guzzle down the plenty. 

6. CamelBak Crux Insulated Tube

Do you know what the most annoying winter hiking issue is? A frozen water tube.

A few bucks are all you need to invest to keep that straw insulated and protected from dropping temps.

Plus, it’s wider Thant the standard and you’ll get 20% more water per sip.

Don’t just use it in winter, it also keeps your water cool in the summer!  

Top 5 Best Mountaineering Brands 

The summit is the goal and only the best gear will do to get you there. Your equipment has to be durable, reliable, and effective.

We turn to the top mountaineering brands to source a supply that we know we can rely on. 

Whether you are a brand loyalist or you like to shop around, the below assembly of brands is stationed among the elite.

Read further to learn about what makes each brand a premier choice when it comes to outfitting your outdoor adventures. 

1. North Face 

From small beginnings in the 60s, North Face has expanded to global status. Named after the coldest face of a mountain, North Face’s specialty lies in cold weather gear.

The brand funds high-level expeditions and sponsors major athletes. 

Their gear is tested on these excursions, in the lab, and through their pro athletes.

When you shop at North Face, you know you’re getting gear that is back by research and innovation. It’s tried, tested, and true. 

2. REI 

Big store brand REI, standing for Recreational Equipment Inc, dates back to the 30s.

They’ve been sourcing quality outdoor brands for nearly a century and carry a range of items to suit beginners to advanced.

REI is a member-owned cooperative and 70% of their annual profits are invested back into the outdoor community. 

Their collection of gear is high-quality and affordable. You aren’t likely to find professional-level products from their exclusive REI line, but what they produce is more than adequate for the standard adventurist. 

3. Patagonia 

Patagonia leads the charge in responsibility and environmentalism. To the brand, this calling is just as important as the gear they produce.

When you invest in Patagonia ware, you’re getting the best of the best in fair trade, preservation, and quality alike. 

Expanding from a humble start in the 50s, and born from the heart of a rock climber, Patagonia continues to outfit the rugged outdoor folk to this day.

Their commodities are mostly angled towards climbers and every single piece is made with intention and respect. 

At Patagonia, they want you to use your items until the end of time, and value repairing and reusing over buying new. 

4. Mammut 

The Swiss outdoor brand, Mammut, claims its beginnings from the 1860s.

They value clean and ethical production, animal welfare, and reducing their footprint. Their bread and butter is cold-weather gear, mostly in the way of skiing and climbing. 

A high degree of effort is focused on obtaining a carbon-neutral status.

Mammut lays the groundwork for environmental protection and sustainability.

They also partner with non-profits and support humanitarian efforts. The gear you buy from Mammut will be both excellent and righteous. 

5. Arc´teryx

The Vancouver based outdoor gear brand, Arc’teryx, is like the Gucci of the outdoor world.

They excel at technical clothes and equipment that is aimed at high-performance.

As the newest brand of the lot, Arc’teryx began in the 90s as an outfitter of mountain climbers and has since expanded its range for all outdoor activities. 

A deeply loyal fan base and a reputation for stellar quality reflect the expectation you can have for your Arc’teryx pieces to last for ages, take on the rigor of the trail, and look incredible too.