What to Wear When Hiking in Summer: A Complete Guide

Hiking in the summer is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, soak up the sunshine, and explore nature.

However, warm weather comes with its own set of challenges, from intense sun exposure to sudden rain showers.

Knowing what to wear when hiking in summer can help you stay cool, comfortable, and prepared for any conditions.

In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials for summer hiking attire and highlight our must-have products.

Key Considerations for Summer Hiking Clothes

Summer hiking outfits should meet three main criteria:

1. Breathability: Your clothing needs to allow airflow to keep you cool.
2. Moisture-Wicking: Sweat is inevitable on a summer hike, so choose materials that wick moisture away from your skin to prevent discomfort and chafing.
3. Sun and Weather Protection: From UV rays to sudden rain, your gear should shield you from the elements.

With these factors in mind, let’s dive into what to wear when hiking in summer, from head to toe.

Hiking In Summer: Gear Guide

1. Headwear: Stay Cool and Protected

For Dry, Sunny Days

An alpaca beanie is a lightweight and breathable option for cooler summer mornings or shaded trails.

Alpaca wool is naturally moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating, keeping your head comfortable without overheating.

For Wet Weather

Summer showers are common, and a waterproof beanie is a great choice for staying dry.

Our triple-layer waterproof beanies feature a breathable waterproof membrane and an insulating inner fleece, making them ideal for keeping rain off your head without making you too hot.

For Intense Sun

A wide-brimmed hat or cap with UPF protection is essential for blocking harmful UV rays.

Choose a lightweight, moisture-wicking material to keep sweat at bay.

2. Upper Body Layers: Lightweight and Protective

Base Layer

Your base layer should be lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking.

Synthetic fabrics like polyester or merino wool are great choices. Avoid cotton, which retains moisture and dries slowly.

Mid-Layer

If your hike starts early or takes you to higher altitudes, bring a lightweight fleece or windbreaker that you can easily pack away as temperatures rise.

Outer Layer

For rainy days, pack a lightweight, waterproof, and breathable jacket.

Look for one with ventilation zippers to prevent overheating while keeping you dry.

3. Bottoms: Prioritise Comfort and Mobility

Hiking Shorts or Trousers

On hot days, hiking shorts made of quick-drying materials are a comfortable option.

For added protection against brush or insects, opt for lightweight hiking trousers with moisture-wicking properties.

Convertible trousers that can be turned into shorts are also a versatile choice.

4. Footwear: Stay Comfortable and Blister-Free

Hiking Boots or Trail Shoes

Choose footwear appropriate for the terrain.

Hiking boots provide more ankle support, while trail shoes are lighter and better suited for well-maintained paths. Make sure they’re broken in before your hike to prevent blisters.

Socks for Summer Hiking

• For Dry, Sunny Days: Our alpaca socks are perfect for warm weather. They wick away moisture, prevent odour, and keep your feet cool and blister-free, even on long hikes. Alpaca fibers are lightweight yet durable, making them ideal for hot conditions.
• For Wet Weather: If there’s a chance of rain or you’ll be crossing streams, wear waterproof socks. Our waterproof socks are breathable, keeping your feet dry and comfortable even when hiking through wet terrain.