May 11
12
What Should I Wear to the Hike?
This is a post from last spring that might be helpful to read again…
From newbies to experts, hikers of all types ask themselves (or should ask themselves) this question each time they prepare for a hike. Often times what you wear and how you prepare will determine the ultimate enjoyment of your hike.
If you are planning a hike to the Colorado high country, you should plan for any type of weather; snow, sleet and thunderstorms are not uncommon even in the middle of summer when it’s normally sunny and beautiful.
The key to proper hike attire is layering. Layering for a summer hike should start with a lightweight base layer like the Patagonia Capilene that will provide comfort and moisture wicking for the sweat/cool cycle your body will go through during the course of a hike.
This layer should never be cotton! This layer should be lightweight and durable and have moisture wicking properties; there are some great high tech base layer options out there. It would be good to have a couple of these in long sleeve and short sleeve to cover various seasons and weather.
Next comes the insulating layer that will help to retain body heat. This layer will consist of clothing made with polyester fabrics such as fleece. Fleece comes in various weights and types. Most avid hikers will own a large number of fleeces ranging from lightweight for early summer mornings or late evenings to heavier weight for fall and winter weather.
Some examples of fleece jackets are made by Patagonia & The North Face. It’s a good idea to have a variety of fleece to keep you comfortable in any hiking weather. Keep in mind you may need to take the fleece off during the course of a hike when you start feeling too warm so you will need to make sure you have room in your pack to stow it.
The final layer is the outer shell and this layer serves as a wind and moisture- blocking layer. This layer should be both breathable and waterproof. Don’t skimp on this because workmanship and quality is of the utmost importance should you get caught in one of Colorado’s many high country afternoon storms. I like the Marmot Crystalline Jacket. Arcteryx jackets are also a good choice for summer hiking.
Look for shielded zippers and few but well placed seams along with a hood that has an extended brim and drawstring straps that you can tighten down to keep the hood in place during windy storms. Pockets, internal and external are nice to have along with Velcro straps that tighten around your wrists.
Even though it may seem like a difficult choice when it comes to choosing your hiking attire, it all comes down to the basics; layers, layers, layers. Everything else is a matter of your personal style and budget.
