By Marnie Kunz, NASM-certified trainer, USATF- RRCA-certified run coach
In partnership with adidas

If you’re looking for summer hiking clothes but aren’t sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. This guide offers an overview of the essential clothing to hit the trails and stay cool. Whether you’re a beginning hiker or an experienced trekker, the right hiking gear will help you stay comfortable and safe on the trails. The summer sun, heat, and insects can present a challenge for summer hikes, but with the right gear, you can make the most of your time in the great outdoors.

Related Post: Hiking Tips for Beginners

Essential Summer Hiking Clothes

These summer hiking clothes will help you stay cool and protected from the sun on your next outdoor adventure. Deciding what to wear hiking can be overwhelming, with so many options and materials to choose from. Choosing moisture-wicking layers will help you hit the trails in comfort and stay shielded from the sun.

This breakdown will help you select the best hiking clothes to enjoy the trails during warm weather:

Hiking Tops

A lightweight hiking top gives you a good base layer for summer hikes. Choose a moisture-wicking shirt made with synthetic materials. Synthetics with blends that include nylon, polyester, or merino wool can help you stay comfortable on the trails and wick sweat away from your body.

When you’re shopping for hiking t-shirts, stay away from 100 percent cotton tops as cotton can hold in moisture, making for a sweaty, wet hike.

Hiking Shorts and Pants

As with shirts, choose hiking pants or shorts that are made with moisture-wicking materials. Most athletic brands have sweat-wicking bottoms that you can use for summer hikes. I enjoy my adidas hiking gear, and they have men’s shorts and women’s shorts in a wide range of styles so you can choose the best options for you.

When shopping for hiking shorts or pants, look for lightweight materials. For dense woods and areas with ticks, opt for long pants to protect your legs and ankles from ticks and scratches. If you’re going on a hike on a paved trail or on a beach, shorts may be ideal for staying cool.

Hiking Boots and Shoes

Hiking footwear can make or break your hiking experience. Hiking shoes are well-suited to light terrain, and they can keep your feet cooler than hiking boots. If you’re hitting rocky, technical trails, hiking boots will be your best bet. Choose lightweight hiking boots for summer hikes.

Find hiking footwear that offers comfort and support for your feet. Try on options with different socks and wear the socks you will use on the trails. Also, keep in mind your feet can expand, especially on long hikes, so make sure there’s enough room in your footwear so that you don’t get blisters.

Hiking Socks

Hiking socks are the final ingredient to keep your feet happy on the trails. It’s worth investing in some comfortable, sweat-wicking hiking socks to stay comfortable on your summer hikes.

Most hiking socks are made with merino wool, a quick-drying material that will help keep sweat away from your feet. Synthetic materials like nylon and polyester may also be used in hiking socks. Stay away from cotton socks as they can hold in moisture and leave you with wet feet and blisters.

Hydration Pack

Hydration is essential for summer hiking. If you’re going on a longer hike, bring a durable backpack to carry your water or hydration drink. A hiking bag is useful for stashing sunscreen, an emergency kit, and other valuable items as well.

For short hikes on easy terrain, you may want to wear a hydration belt or carry a water bottle. Check out our Guide to Running Hydration for more helpful tips on how to stay hydrated when you’re on outdoor adventures.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is one of the most important things you’ll need for summer hikes since sun protection is crucial. Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which blocks 97 percent of the sun’s rays, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association.

Choose a waterproof sunscreen for your best sun protection even when you get sweaty. Carry your sunscreen with you on your hike and reapply every 90 minutes or as directed on the label.

Hat

A wide-brim hat is another essential for summer hiking. When you’re hot-weather hiking, a hat will help your face stay shielded from the sun and also offer some protection from ticks and bugs dropping on your head. A hat with a wide brim all around offers the best protection, but you can also wear a baseball cap if that’s what you have on hand.

Other Items

Some other items you may need for your hike include:

A rain jacket or poncho in case of sudden rain.
Sunglasses offer additional protection from the sun.
Outer layer if you’re hiking in the mountains or someplace where the temperature can drop. A light jacket is perfect for cooler temperatures. For cold temperatures, bring a fleece jacket for extra insulation.
A first aid kit with staple items, including antibiotic ointment and bandages.
Plenty of food and water. You may be on the trails longer than expected, so it’s best to be prepared.
Navigation tools, which may include your phone and an extra battery, a map, or a compass.
Insect repellent to ward off unwanted pests.

Ultimately, what you bring for your hike depends on personal preference, but it’s better to be over-prepared than caught off guard or in an emergency without the gear you need. When preparing for your hike, consider the weather, terrain, and time of day.

Summer Hiking Tips

Hiking in hot weather can present some extra challenges, but taking precautions will help you stay safe and enjoy your time on the trails. Wearing the right summer hiking clothes prevents chafing and other issues, so you can focus on the natural beauty around you. These summer hiking tips will also help you make the most of summer hikes:

Tell someone where you’ll be and for how long you plan to hike. This is especially important if you’re hiking alone.
Wear loose, moisture-wicking clothes to stay comfortable.
Hydrate before, during, and after your hike. Drink plenty of water and electrolytes to stay hydrated.
Hike in the early morning for the coolest temperatures.
Watch for signs of heat exhaustion and seek medical attention immediately if you or your hiking partner experiences heat-related health issues. Some signs to watch for include dry skin, a weak and rapid pulse, confusion, hallucinations, unconsciousness, and seizures. Pour cold water over anyone experiencing heat symptoms and immerse them in cool water if possible.

FAQs

What do hikers wear in the summer?

Hikers wear lightweight, sweat-wicking clothing, a hat, and hiking footwear in the summer.

Should I wear shorts or pants hiking in summer?

This depends on where you are hiking. Lightweight hiking pants offer protection from the sun, insects, and elements. Shorts may be fine for light hikes or beach hikes, however. Choose synthetic, sweat-wicking materials for your hiking pants or shorts.

What is the best material to wear hiking in hot weather?

Wear synthetic materials and avoid cotton. Choose fabrics with blends that include nylon, polyester, or merino wool.

Want more fitness tips and recs? Follow and tag @Runstreet on Instagram to share your workouts and get cheered on. Do you need a training plan to help you crush your fitness goals? Visit the Runstreet Training Center to elevate your fitness. Happy hiking to you!

Marnie Kunz is a NASM-certified personal trainer and USATF- and RRCA-certified running coach based in Brooklyn, NY. Marnie likes helping people get and stay active to enjoy a better quality of life. When she’s not doing fitness things, Marnie enjoys exploring with her dog, a mischievous rescue Akita.

Summer Hiking Clothes to Stay Cool and Comfortable