There are few better ways to spend a day than on a long hike when the sun is shining. There are many rewards in a long day of hot weather hiking, but it does bring its own set of challenges that you need to keep in mind. When temperatures get hot, you run the risk of sunburn, dehydration, blisters and overheating.
Lightweight, breathable clothing that can manage moisture and protect you from the elements will help keep you cool even after you’ve covered more ground. Below, we outline the basics of what to wear hiking in hot weather, along with some great products from Task Force Military that fit each category.
Breathable Hiking Boots
Your feet work harder than any other area of your body while you’re hiking. When you’re hiking in hot weather, poorly ventilated footwear traps heat and moisture, increasing the risk of blisters and fatigue. That's why when you’re trying to figure out what to wear hiking, your boots are such an important choice. To select good hiking boots, look for:
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Breathable construction
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Lightweight
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Support for your ankles
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Manages moisture
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A reliable grip on dry, rocky trails.
Task Force Military recommends the Lowa Zephyr MK2 MID for hot weather hiking. With a fabric lining they are very breathable and permit sweat to evaporate, providing all the support and durability for a full day. In addition to providing all this support and durability, the lightweight design of these boots also cuts down on fatigue caused by walking long distances in warm weather.
Moisture-Wicking Socks
While boots are a top consideration, your socks are another major element of your kit that needs to be thought about when you’re creating your list of what to wear hiking. Sweat-retaining cotton socks cause friction that often leads to painful blisters.
LOWA 4-Season Pro Boot Socks blend Merino wool with technical synthetic fibres to easily manage temperature, control odour and draw moisture away from your feet. Ventilation zones keep your feet cooler, and targeted cushioning keeps your feet comfortable during long hikes.
Breathable Insoles Improve Comfort In Your Boots
Regardless of how well your hiking boots perform, you’ll find them much more comfortable while hiking in warm weather with the right insole. Insoles made from quality materials improve airflow, absorb impact and help decrease fatigue in your feet when hiking over long distances.
The LOWA Summer Footbed is designed for hot weather hiking and features breathable materials to keep your feet cooler inside your boots. They are perfect for hiking, desert environments and extended summer walks where ventilation is crucial.
Protect Yourself From The Sun
Wearing protective summer hiking clothes minimises direct exposure to the Sun’s rays, helps regulate body temperature and decreases the number of times you will need to apply sunscreen throughout the day. Lightweight technical shirts with UV protection, wide-brim hats and polarised sunglasses will all help significantly.
Task Force Military carries a selection of lightweight gear that’s designed for hiking and outdoor activities. A Multicam Bush Hat or baseball cap is the perfect piece of headwear for this kind of activity.
Bring Plenty Of Water
It’s not just what to wear hiking that you need to be thinking about but what you need to be carrying with you too. Staying hydrated becomes more critical when temperatures increase. It’s easy to lose significant amounts of fluid due to excessive sweating during even moderately strenuous hikes. Using a hydration bladder or backpack allows you to drink water constantly instead of waiting until you feel thirsty.
The CamelBak Motherlode Lite gives you easy access to water thanks to the built-in reservoir. Drinking small sips frequently throughout your hike will allow you to maintain your energy level, keep your body temperature regulated and ultimately maximise your performance on the trail.
Gear that efficiently manages heat, moisture and sunlight is the key thing to look out for when you’re looking for what to wear hiking. If you have any questions about any of the featured products above, you can get in contact with us to ask our team. We’re ex-forces professionals with real-world experience with our kit, so you can trust you’re getting practical, expert advice.
