• Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer

TotalHiker

Your Hiking Guide

  • Apparel
  • Gear
  • Hikes
  • Info
You are here: Home / Archives for Apparel

Hiking Apparel

Hiking needs some pieces of kit to enjoy safely. We cover what you need, why and give our opinion on the best buys for your needs and budget

Here are some of the most essential items of hiking apparel:

Footwear

A solid pair of hiking boots is critical to protect and support the ankles and feet when out of the uneven and long trails. The preferred pair of boots will relate to the type of hiking and terrain - which can differ significantly.

Some of the most critical issues related to identifying the best boots include:

  • Am I planning to hike in cold or wet conditions?
  • What is the specific type of hiking planned?
  • How difficult are the hiking trails?

Make sure to carefully review the wide-ranging hiking boots or shoes in the market to get the most effective material, style, fit, etc. to match the needs.

Getting the proper and comfortable fit is essential with long-distance hiking boots, so make sure to personally try on several pairs to see which gives the desired comfort.

Clothing

A well-chosen selection of basic trail gear is certain to help stay comfortable and safe on a hiking adventure. Look for clothing in wool or synthetic material.

It can benefit to limit cotton because it isn't able to give the desired insulation when wet and can leave you feeling cold and more exposed to hypothermia.

Must-have clothes to invest in:

  • Base layer: In cool climates, a base layer is likely to consist of thermal long underwear, while in warmer climates; an appropriate layer is synthetic shorts and T-shirt.
  • Insulating layer: A warm insulating layer like a wool sweater or fleece jacket is certain to help provide a desired level of warmth throughout a cool evening.
  • Wind-proof or waterproof layer: Articles of clothing in this category include items like rain pants and wind/rain jackets. A proper hiking jacket will make sure it is possible to stay dry on the trails while pants are appreciated for their ability to protect from mud and brush.

Socks

Proper walking socks are manufactured in a breathable and cushioning material that helps to protect against blisters.

See our reviews of the best hiking socks here >>

The Pack

Similar to identifying the right clothes and shoes, a backpack should relate to the intended hiking activity.

A basic pack is a practical choice for the complete novice on a single day-hike. A pack should have enough space to accept the hiking must-have items such as extra clothes, water, food, etc.

On a short day-hike, a book styled pack is usually more than enough. A daypack can be upgraded as you become more experienced and progress to the more difficult and longer trails.

Other Essentials

A hiker shouldn't leave for the trails until the shortlist of must-have items are packed in the backpack. Some of the most important hiking supplies include:

  • Compass and map (essential for the backcountry hike)
  • Fresh Water (and Water purifying system for longer hikes)
  • Food supply
  • Rainproof clothing
  • Matches or similar fire starting equipment
  • Sharp knife or other multi-tool
  • Well stocked first aid kit
  • Headlamp or flashlight (plus spare batteries)
  • Sunglasses and sun block

All things considered, and with the list of "Essentials" above, you could simply research a premium hiking survival kit and bring that along as it should have all things necessary.

Our Latest Articles On Hiking Apparel

Tips for Blister Prevention and Care

Tips for Blister Prevention and Care When Hiking

Blister prevention and care is essential to avoid pain and discomfort on the trails.

So follow our tips to help you avoid or minimize the effect of blisters

February 20, 2021

What Are The Best Hiking Boots?

What Are The Best Hiking Boots for 2021? See our Top Picks For All Types of Hiker

A solid pair of hiking shoes or boots are the most important piece of kit for a hiker.

But with all the choice out there, which are the best for you?

January 10, 2021

What Are The Best Hiking Sandals

What Are The Best Hiking Sandals for 2021?

Looking to invest in a hiking sandal but not sure where to start?

We’ve sorted through to find the best options for all needs. See our picks here >>

January 10, 2021

How To Break In Hiking Boots

How To Break In Hiking Boots And How Long Should It Take?

New hiking boots, time to hit the trails? Even boots that are exactly the right size need to be broken in to be their best.

Find out how here >>

May 20, 2020

How Should Hiking Boots Fit

How Should Hiking Boots Fit? Our Guide To Fitting & Adjusting Your Boots

Unsure what a good fit means when it comes to hiking boots?

This guide will help ensure you find a comfortable and blister-free boot >>

May 14, 2020

What Are The Best Hiking Socks

What Are The Best Hiking Socks And How To Choose The Right Pair

What are the best socks for hiking? This can vary a lot depending on what type of hiking you are doing.

Take a look at our tips and picks here >>

May 4, 2020

Essential Winter Hiking Gear

Essential Guide to Winter Hiking Gear

Hiking in the cold, winter months needs some thought and careful choices.

Layering will definitely be your friend! Find out how to do it properly here >>

April 28, 2020

Definitive Guide to Layering

The Definitive Guide to Layering for Outdoor Adventuring

It does not matter what weather or season you are hiking in, you will benefit from properly selecting and layering your clothing.

Find out how here >>

April 23, 2020

Different Types of Hiking Boots & Shoes

What Are The Different Types of Hiking Boots & Shoes?

Hiking boots are essential for any serious hiking, but the choice is bewildering.

We unpick the jargon so you can get a better idea of what you need >>

April 23, 2020

Hiking Rain Gear Guide

Hiking Rain Gear Guide : Soft Shell Vs Hard Shell Jackets and More

Soft Shell Vs Hard Shell Jackets – which are the best for your hiking rain gear?

We show you what to look for when making your decision >>

April 23, 2020

Benefits of Proper Hiking Pants

7 Benefits of Proper Hiking Pants

Good hiking pants provide a variety of benefits for a hiker; lightweight wicking fabric, toughness, and high level of comfort.

Find out more >>

April 23, 2020

What To Wear Hiking

What To Wear Hiking on the Trails

The right clothing for hiking is just as important as must-have gear such as maps and a first-aid kit.

So have a read of our guide >>

March 24, 2020

  • Page 1
  • Page 2
  • Next Page »

Footer

  • Affiliate Disclosure
  • About Total Hiker
  • Sitemap
  • Privacy & Cookie Policy
  • Contact Us

Copyright © 2021 Total Hiker

Affiliate Disclosure

We believe in being as transparent as possible when it comes to this site. With this in mind, please be aware that we may receive remuneration for some of the products we review on this site.

Total Hiker is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com (and other Amazon programs).

We will also list Google Adsense ads from time to time. You should be able to see these as text links or blocks of ads which have a small notation indicating “Ads by Google” or “AdChoices”.

There are millions of products available, but we include only those that we research and believe could benefit you.

We provide links on the site to information such as information resources for which we receive no compensation. Our mission is to help our visitors, but this is also very clearly a for-profit site and you should realize as much. If you have any questions whatsoever, please contact us using the “contact” option on the site menu and we will be happy to answer any questions.

Trademark Dislosure

Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates.

In addition, any other trademarks and logos we mention on this site are also the property of their respective owners.