HIKING CLOTHES

Most family hikes are usually relatively short and are made on days when weather is favorable to just about any type of clothing. The most important aspect of a family hike is for the family to enjoy time together in the beauty of nature. For most family hikes there is no reason to invest in expensive hiking wear, but for optimal comfort it is reasonable to consider the clothing options that are available for hikers.

Wear "Normal" Clothes For Short Hikes

With hikes that are relatively short and have fairly flat and easy terrain, normal street clothes should be sufficient. For trails that require only a two or three hours of hiking time, your family be able to enjoy the trail in their every day clothing. Be sure that everyone in your family wears closed toe shoes that have reasonble tread on bottom to prevent slipping. Hats should be worn on every hike. On warm days a hat will shield the sun. On cold days a stocking cap or ski mask can fend off the cold.

Layering is a good way to assure that your family remains comfortable even as temperatures and weather conditions change. Always bring a light jacket even if it does not seem cool enough to do so. Weather can change and increases in elevation bring temperatures down. When hiking with the family, it is a good idea to have everyone wear long pants regardless of the weather. This will not only provide warmth, but it will protect your family from rough plants on the trail, scratched legs from stumbles, and shielding from poison oak or poison ivy.

Consider Proper Hiking Clothes for Long Hikes

If your hike will require several hours of hiking time and/or there is a risk of more extreme temperature and weather, it may be appropriate to consider clothing that is designed for comfort in hiking. Layering is appropriate for hiking in all conditions and it is layering that provides the greatest comfort and protection from heat and cold. On substantial hikes perspiration becomes an issue that needs an answer. Longer hikes require layering in clothing that turns away from the cotton norm.

The problem with cotton clothing is that it absorbs water and dries slowly. When clothes become wet against the skin, they cling to skin and can cause chaffing and blisters. Longer and more challenging hikes require layered clothing made of fabrics that "wick" away moisture from the body. When taking on longer hikes with your family, everyone will be happier in clothing that wicks away moisture.

Keeping Feet Happy

Nearly anyone who has hiked a good distance can tell you that when your feet hurt, your whole body seems to hurt. Hiking boots and hiking socks are the first lines of defense against sore feet. For longer family hikes, everyone should consider a pair of hiking boots. Hiking boots absorb some of the shock of the trail and provide support to ankles through the continuous repetitive movements to which they are subjected.

Liner socks control moisture by wicking moisture away from the skin of the foot. A liner sock is a thin sock made of polypropylene or another artificial fiber that draws away moisture which effectively prevents excessive friction against the skin. Less friction translates into less heat and less chance of blisters. Liners are the first layer of foot protection and are worn against the skin.

Hiking socks are the second layer of protection for feet. Good hiking socks are wool or a blend of wool and some artificial fiber. Hiking socks go on over liner socks. The two layers of socks provide a small dead space that allows cloth to cloth rubbing rather than cloth to skin rubbing. Hiking socks come in two main varieties: those that keep feet cool and those that keep feet warm. Light-weight hiking socks are best for keeping feet cool. Medium and Heavy-weight hiking socks are best for cold weather. When liners and hiking socks are used together feet stay dryer and more comfortable in all weather conditions.

Clothing for Long Hikes

Layering
Clothing is layered in a similar fashion to socks with the goal of wicking away water. Clothing should be in three layers: a wicking layer, an insulating layer, and an outer layer or shell. Cotton is the common enemy of layering for long hikes. Anything that is 100% cotton should be left at home.

Wicking Layer - to wick moisture away from skin
The wicking layer is the layer that is against the body and should be composed of polypropylene or another artificial fiber. Wicking layers are commonly in the form of thermal underwear. The main purpose of this layer is to draw moisture away from the skin which provides warmth and comfort. On very warm days hiking days it can be best to leave the wicking layer off. This layer is essential, however, for cold and even cool hiking conditions.

Insulating Layer - to provide adequate warmth
The insulating layer is the "meat of the sandwich." This layer is commonly composed of fleece or another synthetic fabric. The purpose of the insulating layer is to maintain comfortable warmth. If one insulating layer is not sufficient, it may be necessary to add another warm shirt to the insulating layer. A pair of hiking pants can be used in this layer to cover the thermal underpants or in warm conditions they may be used without the thermal underpants. The insulating layer should be enough to keep you warm but not hot, and it should still allow moisture to pass through.

Outer Layer - to keep weather out and allow perspiration to escape
The outer layer is intended to keep rain, wind, and weather elements out, which allows the other layers to do their job of wicking water and keeping you warm.With good layering and a proper outer layer of gore-tex or similar material, you should be well defended from cold and yet able to remove excess perspiration by wicking and evaporation.

Layering is the main idea of temperature and moisture control in hiking (especially at lower temperatures). Remember that layering will also apply in warm and even hot conditions, but the hotter it is, the less layering will be required. Keep in mind that increases in elevation cause decreases in temperature. Also be aware that low lands like deserts can have very hot days and very cold nights.

Having appropriate clothes for layering is essential to maintaining comfort in hiking. Always be aware of the elevation, weather conditions, and environmental factors that apply to your family hiking trip. Plan ahead and bring clothes for layering that suit the unique conditions of your specific hike.

Preventing Heat Loss - Head and Hands
In cold weather it is important not to forget exposed areas susceptible to heat loss such as the head and hands.

Head
Because the head houses the brain, a large volume of blood circulates through blood vessels that surround the skull. If the head is not covered, or is not sufficiently insulated, a significant amount of body heat can be lost. Depending on the severity of the cold temperature, hikers should cover their heads with an appropriate form of hat or cap. A wool or fleece stocking cap is sufficient for many winter hikes, but if the cold is severe enough, it may be necessary to wear a ski mask which will also cover the nose and mouth. Use good judgment and never hike in freezing weather without packing the appropriate head gear.

Hands
When hiking in freezing temperatures, hands are one of the most commonly neglected parts of the body. Because hands are used to fetch gear from packs, to maintain balance on the trail, and to take pictures, it is not uncommon for hands to remain exposed to the cold while the rest of the body is covered. Leaving hands exposed to the cold not only causes loss of body heat, but it can also create a risk of frost bite.

It is very important to remember to cover your hands with gloves that provide adequate warmth. Ideal hiking gloves are the kind that have a removable inner liner. This allows a hiker to wear just the liner, just the gloves, or both the liner and gloves. Be sure to have a pair of gloves that fit snugly, and that are long enough to tuck under the cuff of your jacket. Gore-tex, wool, and fleece are all good materials to look for in hiking gloves.

Below are some tips for dressing appropriately for hiking trips.