Now that we know where to go. Next, we must get dressed for the big event. As I said before, most people have everything needed to get started. What you wear is wide open, that being said you have to manage chaffing, moisture, and the cold. There are a few good rules of thumb worth addressing, then we will wrap up with some basic suggested gear.
Cotton Kills
There is an old outdoor saying “Cotton Kills”. There is a lot of truth to this. Cotton is a great fabric. It naturally wicks moisture away from the body and helps keep you cool. Your probably thinking that’s awesome, I have a 100 percent cotton tee shirt I can wear. But stop and think for a moment. That feature that keeps you nice and cool in the summer, can cause major problems if the temperature dips. In the cooler or cold weather, cotton will continue to wick moisture away, thus cooling your body even more. If cotton gets wet or damp, cotton will no longer keep you warm, but will cool you off more. This can leaded to hypothermia and frostbite. Hypothermia can set in in 60°F weather. So beware of cotton, including cotton socks.
Baggy and chaffy
Baggy clothes can be comfy and warm, but this opens up a major problem of getting chaff. And that will ruin a trip fast (And is also the reason I carry desitin). Any time skin rubs against skin there is a chance of getting chaff. Add moisture, including sweat, just makes it worse. Tight fitting undergarments are one of the best ways to prevent it and if you find some that wicks moisture, it can do double duty.
Layer-up.
Dressing in layers is a good trick used by any with much experience. This will allow multiple combinations of clothing to ensure we are as comfortable as possible. As the day heats up, you can remove layers, as evening sets in you can add layers. For example, start with a base layer, add a light long sleeve shirt, and finally a light jacket. As the temperature changes, you can remove layers to keep from sweating and add layers to keep warm.
Dress cool
In cold weather, dress cool. This may seem odd at first, but if you dress with enough clothes that you are cool. As you start walking, your core will warm up and you will be comfortable. This little trick will keep you from sweating at the start of the trip. Sweat will cool your core off, but in winter, it can open you up to hypothermia. And remember, to pack a jacket that you can put on as needed.
What to wear.
Now, let’s take a look at what you should wear. First, we suggest what you can wear that you might own and then some entry level items.
Shoes.
When we look at our shoes, especially staring out, just use what you have. I have seen people hike in sandals, work boots and sneakers. Some even hike barefoot (humans have been doing this for thousands of years). So go through your shoes and find a comfortable pair that you don’t mind getting dirty and don’t rub. Just remember, if they rub, blisters may be at the end of the trail, and that can ruin a trip. A good rule of thumb is lighter weight is generally better. Weight on your feet is more strenuous that weight on you back. However, if the terrain is rough, you may want the support that comes with a boot. When you start looking to buy a pair, you must try them on. Don’t buy on-line unless you can return them.
Socks
Next to shoes, socks are one of the most important things to consider. Find a sock that completely covers where the shoes come into contact with the foot. For boots, use socks that come up above the top of the boot. Shoes need socks that come over the ankle. This will prevent that rubbing we just mentioned. It is also worth considering how much padding the socks have and how well they keep your feet warm in colder weather. Personally, I prefer wool socks or a wool blend. They have the padding and keep your feet warm and dry.
Underwear.
So, this is probably one of the hardest areas to address because of the wide verity of preferences. But, no one wants to be chaff, trust me. In this department, you want everything to be nice and snug. Nothing baggy. For the guys, grab some non-cotton boxer briefs. Those will work for the ladies too.
Pants
Shorts or pants will work. Make sure you dress for the season and don’t worry about it. They do make pants with legs that zip off. It is nice to be able to start a cool morning in pants and then convert them to shorts as the day warms up.
Shirts
Anything seasonal will work. Just grab and go.
Headgear
I like a wide brim hat to keep the sun off, but this is optional.
Don’t let your clothing keep you from hiking. As you can see. The barrier to entry is very low, you should already own all of this. So now all you need is to get your gear togather.