Hiking - Clothing & Gear

Hiking -Cloth & Gear

All you need to know...

Hiking Cloth and gear

Clothing

Base Layer 

for warmer days...

Underwear 
Avoid cotton underwear. Always have an extra pair. Males, consider brand that are slightly longer. Females, wear lightweight and breezy underwear that will dry quickly.

Sports Bra (for females) – Avoid cotton. Choose a sports bra made of wicking material and that is durable. 

Still not sure what to buy, here is a sample product?

Men

http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/85535?feat=mens%20sports%20underwear-SR0&page=exofficio-give-n-go-sport-mesh-boxer-briefs

Women

http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/512672?page=mens-sports-bras-underwear

for colder days...

Base Layer Shirt
A base layer should be synthetic moisture-wicking fabric and should fit to snug against the skin . For cool-weather activities this material efficiently pulls dampness away from your body. If you are camping at night, you can sleep in this layer. Dont forget to remove it if it’s a rainy day. Polyproplene is another alternative material.

Base Layer Pants/Tights
Again, a base layer should be fitted snug against the skin and made of some sort of moisture wicking material. On really cold days, these pants/tights can help give you more insulation. At night, you can sleep in this layer. If this is your only night pants, don’t allow it to get wet. Just remove it if it’s a rainy day. Tights made of polypropylene are also fine and economically priced.

Sock Liners (only if you need) – If you need extra protection on their feet to prevent blisters, sock liners can help. Couple of pairs should be fine.

Still not sure what to buy, here is a sample product?
http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/78787?feat=base%20layer-SR0&page=power-dry-stretch-base-layer-midweight-long-sleeve-crew
http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/83551?feat=sr&term=base+layer+pant
http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/82196?feat=sr&term=socks+liner



Insulating Layer 


for warmer days..

Hiking Pants 
These pants are Designed to move with you as you negotiate fallen logs, boulders and steep terrain. The lighter the better, Lightweight nylon wicks moisture and dries quickly to keep you cool and dry the trail.These pants will get dirty fast, so go for a darker color if possible. You might not like how the zipper feels around your thigh, so try it on at the store and squat down in a pair to see.

A Short Sleeve Hiking Shirt 
Rely on moisture-wicking tee for trail running or everyday wear. They dry quickly, antimicrobial fabric moves moisture away from the body.If you opt to go sleeveless, ensure you have applied sunscreen.

Hat 
Find a Full brim and adjustable hatband provide good sun protection and proper fit

Sunglasses
If you are wearing contacts, this is a must. Go for a cheap fancy sportive sun glasses. If you have sensitive eyes, bring along your shades. Look for 100% UVA/UVB protection.

Smart-wool Socks
Never use a cotton socks. Prefer wool for all seasons. During hot summer you could use nylon You need 2 for hiking and 1 extra for driving/travelling back.  In the summer, you can purchase the short Smart wool socks to keep your feet cool. It doesn't have to be Smart-wool. It could be something comparable just not cotton.

Hiking Boots or Trail Runners 
Some hikers opt for trail runners over chunky hiking boots. It really is a personal preference. If you have ankle problems, you might consider hiking boots or at least boots with some support around the ankle. If you are carrying a heavy pack (i.e., 30+ pounds) then hiking boots might give you more stability. Otherwise, trail runners are popular because they dry out quickly, are lightweight, and aren’t prone to causing blisters like boots sometimes do. Whatever you go with, consider adding an insole into the shoe that gives an added layer of protection from feeling the rocks.

for wetter days..

(Use #2,#5,#6 from warmer days section )

Lightweight Rain/Wind Pants
I will not recommend a waterproof pant rather water resistant rather than waterproof so that you will not get too hot. Choose a lightweight and relatively inexpensive pair of rain pants if you really want to stay dry. Alternatively you could use a super thin wind pant. 

Rain/Wind Jacket
Some tend to use a winter jacket as a rain coat. Dont. Avoid a heavy water proof jacket which can make you hot and sweaty. Lightweight jacket stuffs into its own pocket for easy packing, so go for ligher jackets.Ensure your rainmoisture protection, breathability, comfort and lightweight, packable convenience  . Your rain jacket can also be your wind jacket on really cool and breezy days. 


for colder days... (if you are looking for hiking in the snow - refer to snowshoeing under outdoor gears)

(Use #2,#5,#6 from warmer days section )

Insulating Jacket
Key is use a Traditional, Relaxed fit for ease of movement.In the colder months, Avoid jackets that get wet.Go for nylon material.

Gloves 
Search for "outdoor research glove" and you will get  the best fit for hiking during cold seasons.

Neck Gaiters
Neck gaiter will make you feel warm. Keeping your neck warm will take you long way.  It’s also helpful during early morning hikes through a dewy field.

Gears

Unlike clothing, gears are not always seasonal. it depends on the type of trail you hike

for icy trails...

Diamond Grips

These provide aggressive traction for all winter walking conditions, from boilerplate ice to back-country snow and everything in between. They are also effective when transitioning through gravel, rock and mud from icy surfaces. Made of case hardened steel alloy, and strung on steel aircraft cable, the patented Diamond Beads have hundreds of biting edges that grip in all directions. The bead assemblies are riveted to a tough rubber sling which remains elastic in subzero temperatures. They are easy to put on and take off, yet fit snugly and stay on without the need for additional straps. Diamond Grips are also self clearing, so there is no snow or ice build up. There is no other traction footwear product like it!

for rough uneven terrains...

Hiking Poles

Hiking with poles requires 21% less energy, reduces stress on vulnerable knee and ankle joints and helps you maintain balance on rough, uneven terrain. Choose poles are constructed from lightweight and durable aluminum. with grips and padded neoprene straps tthat keep hands and wrists comfortable on long hikes. Generally poles extend from 66 cm to 140 cm.

Backpack

Find a lightweight pack for daylong or light overnight trips. Factors your need to consider are lightweight, waterproof cargo space, comfortable fit and ensure it snugs to your body. It should have a shoulder  strap, a waist strap and a strap across your chest for extra support..