What to Wear for a Summer Hike

Hiking during the summer months can be an exhilarating experience. The weather’s hot, and the days are longer, making it the ideal time to explore trails near you. However, choosing the right clothing is crucial to staying safe and getting the most out of the experience. Check out our guide for what to wear on your summer hikes, what accessories you need and the materials to choose to stay cool, comfortable and ready for anything.

Why is it Important to Wear the Right Clothing On a Summer Hike?

As the temperature heats up, we know that the best way to spend it is outdoors. But, when attempting a hike, especially longer walks during the heat, the clothing you choose to wear can make or break your experience. The last thing you want on your hike is to have your clothes stick to your body or your hiking pants not being waterproof. Having the right gear is important for several reasons.

1. Regulates Body Temperature

When you’re pushing your body through the natural terrain, you’ll get hot in no time. So, having the right gear is essential to regulate body temperature, preventing dehydration and overheating. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics with moisture-wicking tech that keep you cool and dry.

2. Provides Essential Sun Protection

Being in the sun is great for your body in small doses but proper sun safety is key for long walks outdoors. Wearing sun-protective clothing shields your skin from harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of sunburn and potential long-term damage.

3. Help Prevents Injury

Hiking can be a dangerous business, so the right clothing should prevent any potential injuries while climbing over tree roots and uneven or potentially loose ground. Proper footwear, like hiking boots or structured runners, ensures stability for your ankles and knees when hiking through unfamiliar terrain.

What Materials Should You Opt For?

Wearing clothing made with the right tech is essential for tackling those steep climbs. Sweat-wicking fibres, heat-dispersing material and fabric specifically designed for intense activity are the keys to getting the most out of your summer hike.

  • Iso-Chill: Iso-Chill disperses body heat and provides a must-have cooling effect. This innovative fabric is lightweight, breathable, and wicks away moisture, making it ideal for hot weather hikes. It comes with laser perforations for ultimate breathability.

  • HeatGear: HeatGear is specifically designed to regulate body temperature during hot weather. It’s a baselayer, crafted from lightweight and moisture-wicking materials that keep you cool and dry, even in the most challenging conditions.
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What To Wear on A Summer Hike?

When choosing clothing for summer hiking, it’s important to pick items designed to defend against the heat and provide enough protection from the elements.

1. Tops

Tops, like t-shirts, made from breathable and lightweight materials, are a popular choice to help regulate body temperature for all-day wear. They allow air circulation and prevent sweat buildup, keeping you comfortable throughout your hike. For women, crops and tank tops offer stylish and comfortable options that provide freedom of movement and breathability.

For men, lightweight tees and tanks ade with Iso-Chill or HeatGear tech offer exceptional comfort and breathability for long hikes in the heat. If you prefer more coverage, opt for long-sleeve tops made with UPF-rated fabrics that provide sun protection without causing overheating.

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2. Bottoms

Keep your legs and lower body shielded from the elements with pants and shorts designed for summer. For women, lightweight and moisture-wicking leggings are an excellent choice. Our leggings built with HeatGear tech provide maximum flexibility and protection while keeping you dry and cool.

If you prefer more airflow when tackling steeper climbs, shorts made from breathable and quick-drying materials are essential. Our Flex Woven 3 shorts for men and women offer heaps of flexibility and stretch, crucial for longer hikes that require every ounce of energy to reach the end.

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3. Footwear and Accessories

Let’s not forget that the right accessories and footwear are equally important for a comfortable hiking experience.

  • Accessories: Pick accessories designed to keep you motivated and comfortable for tough terrain. Opt for moisture-wicking socks to prevent blisters and keep your feet dry. To stay well prepped, bring a bag, like our summit backpack that easily stores all your essentials, like a water bottle, extra snacks, hat, sunglasses and additional sunscreen.
  • Footwear: Hikers need breathable hiking boots or runners that provide ventilation without compromising on support and stability. Our UA Micro G hiking boots are the ultimate companion for supportive footwear for long summer hikes, providing essential grip and traction for rough terrain.

If you prefer a hybrid shoe that can withstand uneven terrain but can also be worn for runs and walks, our Unisex UA HOVR™ Summit Fat Tire Cuff Running Shoes strike the perfect balance between running and hiking. Built with our iconic UA HOVR tech for maximum comfort, cord lacing for increased stability and Michelin® Wild Gripper outsole for increased traction, these shoes are a must for outdoor, summer activities.

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Summer Hikes Tips and Tricks

To make the most of your summer hiking adventures, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind.

Consider the time of day and opt for early morning or late afternoon hikes to avoid the peak heat.

Staying hydrated is crucial, so remember to carry enough water and electrolyte-rich drinks to keep your body replenished.

Protect yourself from harmful UV rays by using sunscreen, and wearing a hat and sunglasses. If you can, wear a lightweight, long-sleeved top or leggings to minimise the amount of sun on your skin.

Choose a lightweight backpack that won't add unnecessary weight and hinder your mobility.

Bring a small first aid kit for long hikes that’s kitted out with insect repellent, bandages, blister plasters, and a backup portable charger in case of emergencies.

Hikes during the summer are the best way to experience the beauty of the outdoors and get the most out of your weekends. By selecting the right clothing and gear for your hike, you’ll keep your body comfortable no matter how hot or steep the climb might get.

Discover the huge collection of hiking and trail gear online from Under Armour AU for men and women to find the right gear for your next hiking adventure.