What should I wear for trekking? Shop equipment trekking and light trekking

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— light trekking – light Hiking
Now that we have the basic clothing considerations out of the way, let’s get more specific regarding clothing needs by season. These needs will change depending on where you live and what part of the season you’re in (i.e., early fall vs. late fall). Here are some general tips for choosing the most appropriate outerwear by season.
Spring and fall: These seasons are together because layering needs are similar in these more moderate and variable seasons. For footwear, many outdoor experts recommend hiking boots vs. sneakers or hiking sandals due to the possible temperature fluctuations and muddy trail conditions from snowmelt and rain. The boots add traction and support, with an added bonus of keeping your feet dry if they are waterproof. In addition, a packable waterproof and windproof jacket will help keep you comfortable in these wet and unpredictable seasons.
Moving inward, a long-sleeved hiking shirt makes a great mid-layer depending on how chilly it is during the hike. Follow with a short- or long-sleeved wicking base layer. A zip-up fleece jacket is a good addition if the temperatures are chilly. I prefer convertible pants on a chilly spring/fall morning hike so I can easily zip off the pant legs when things heat up. Last but not least, a hat to keep the sun out of your eyes or the rain from drenching your head!
Summer: Personally, I love summer hiking and the flexibility it gives for clothing choices! It usually doesn’t require the constant addition or removal of layers, and it makes a combo hike and swim possible. That being said, it’s important to keep in mind of environmental hazards (e.g., ticks, poisonous plants, snakes, etc.) and terrain when choosing summer hiking clothes. Hiking sandals and sneakers are appropriate for most terrain, though longer treks may still require hiking boots. Breathable wicking materials (no cotton) are key for shirts, bottoms and hiking socks to keep the sweat off your skin. Lighter colors absorb less heat and can keep you cooler on hot days. And, unwanted hitchhikers tend to prefer darker colors. A wide-brimmed hat can keep the sun off your face and neck!
Winter: Hiking in winter is a whole different animal, but it’s worth the extra effort to enjoy the beauty of nature in winter! The key here is layers: a base layer with insulating properties such as wool or budget-friendly synthetic materials; an insulating, removable middle layer; and a waterproof/windproof outer layer. Hiking boots, warm wicking socks, a wool or synthetic beanie hat and warm gloves are also key to a comfortable winter hike. For more detailed tips for winter outerwear, check out these articles on adult winter gear and what to wear when hiking in the rain and winter.
Even on bluebird sunny day, we never set off without rain gear, extra clothing, gloves, a hat and/or a nylon neck buff. Temps can drop fast.
Hiking Boots – Trekking Boots
- Don’t buy the classic, hard leather boots—too heavy for most day hikers, and hard to break in.
- Your best bet: lightweight boots with ankle support.
- Trail running shoes are fine if you’re used to them on uneven terrain.
- Alaska trails often feature wet or muddy stretches. Consider trail shoes with waterproof, breathable liners such as Gore-tex, or carry waterproof, breathable socks.
Pack a freezer bag with emergency gear
- For simple first aid problems, carry a roll of gauze, a roll of medical tape, a few bandage strips, a small tube of antibacterial ointment and a square of moleskin for heel blisters or hot spots.
- Include an inexpensive lightweight “space” blanket in case you get stuck overnight. Look for these items in camping sections of superstore groceries or outdoor stores.
- If traveling in country with downed wood that can be burned, carry fire-starter and matches.
- A pocketknife or multi-tool.
- For on-the-fly repairs: Dental floss to sew rips in clothing, a few wire ties or short span of bailing wire to tie up gear, a mini roll of duct tape to patch fabric.

Trekking Poles
Don’t think of them as canes—here’s how any hiker will benefit from them:
- Elevation. When heading down hills, shifting weight to the poles will protect your knees.
- Uneven terrain. Using them on side hills—sloping terrain—can protect your ankles.
- Whacking. Poles are great for helping whack brush aside.
- Water crossings. Probe the depth of a stream before you plant your foot (or whole leg) into it.
- An extra pair of feet. They offer stability so you can look up and watch scenery, rather than your feet for every step.
- Shopping for Poles. Aluminum is cheaper and heavier, but carbon might not be as durable. Shock-absorbing tips are great if you’re carrying a heavy load, but overkill for most day hikers. Look for something that can collapse and attach well to your pack.
Water – Light trekking
If you’re heading out for a long hike, you’re probably going to need more water than you want to carry with you. The good news: there are streams everywhere. We Alaskans tend to take a bottle for water when light trekking , and then just refill it in a stream or river. If you don’t want to, here are your options:
- SteriPen. UV lights kill bacteria, giardia, but don’t get rid of silt or grittiness from stream water.
- Filter Pump. Low-tech, but your best bet for removing bacteria and bulk.
- Purifying tablets. Iodine or Chloride tablets are cheap and lightweight, and a great back-up plan. Downsides: They’re slow (half an hour to four hours). Iodine makes the water taste funny, too.
Food For your light trekking
What’s a hike without a snack! It’s easy to tuck a carb-rich energy bar or trail bar or two into a pocket or a pack. Apples are super food that don’t get crushed. Consider keeping at least one snack untouched for emergencies or for one of those unexpectedly long days.
Two articles of clothing that come to mind are a) lightweight hiking shirts with long sleeves that can be rolled up and secured, and b) convertible pants with pant legs that zip off into shorts.
Shop equipmenet light trekking
Planning a light trekking date but are not sure of how to dress? Well, you just need to stick to a few rules.
One, check the current season: if it’s winter, look for clothes that you can layer up easily in case it gets colder. If it is summer, go for bright, light trekking outfits.
Similarly, it is important to consider the fabric used to make your hiking outfits. Stay away from cotton because it retains any moisture it absorbs; thus, keeping you wet. Instead, look for clothes made of merino wool or nylon.
Hopefully, you can now choose what to wear on a hiking date and get ready to hit the trails with the man or woman of your dreams. Believe me, this is much better than those restaurant dates. If you both share a love for the outdoors, you will always find a common ground to fall back on, even when you disagree.
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