Depending on the weather, what clothes you bring will make the difference between a fun exciting adventure and miserable or even dangerous trip. Here are some ideas on what you should and should not bring when heading into the back country for an extended stay.
Layering is Key
To understand layering your clothing for outdoor activities, you need to know the function of each layer:
- Base layer (underwear layer): wicks sweat off your skin
- Middle layer (insulating layer): retains body heat to protect you from the cold
- Outer layer (shell layer): shields you from wind and rain
Even if you don’t wear all three layers at the outset, it’s a good idea to take all layers on every outing: You can peel off layers if things heat up, but you can’t put on layers that you didn’t bring along.
Click Here for REI layering info
Recommended Materials
- Synthetic fabrics, like polyester and nylon, are excellent for wicking moisture away from the skin. They also dry quickly, are fairly durable, lightweight, and affordable.
- Natural fibers, like wool, are legendary in the hiking world for their ability to keep you warm even when wet.
- Down is great for warmth to weight ratio. but do not keep you worm when wet. Ideal for a Mid layer.
- COTTON IS NOT ADVICED. It holds moisture.
Click Here for What Not to Wear.
Click Here for REI What to Wear.
Early Fall / Spring Overnights
During this time of year in the mountains there can be extreme temp changes. Warm during the day and cold at night. Make sure the clothing you bring can be layered to provide extra warmth if needed.
- 3 pairs of socks (preferred Smart Wool)
- 2-3 pairs of underwear
- long and short sleeve hiking shirt.
- hiking pants
- fleece hoodie sweater.
- rain jacket and pants or poncho.
- Thermal Under layer top and bottom (preferred Smart Wool at least 100g)
- Fleece or Wool Hat
- Warm lightweight jacket
- Light – Midweight Gloves
- Med-heavy weight hiking boots (water Proof)
Summer Overnight
During this time of year lite materials that are beatable are needed. with a few warning layers for call nights or brisk mornings.
- 3 pairs of socks (preferred Smart Wool)
- 2-3 pairs of underwear
- short sleeve hiking shirt.
- hiking pants and shorts
- Light fleece jacket or sweater (with Hood)
- rain jacket and pants or poncho.
- Sleeping layers
- Light hiking shows or boots (water proof)
- Water/camp shoes (light weight)
- Bathing Suit
Late Fall/Winter Overnights
During this time of you want warm layers that prevent heat loss, while wicking sweat off the skin.
- 3 pairs of socks (preferred Smart Wool) Mid-Heavy Weight
- 2-3 pairs of underwear
- long and short sleeve hiking shirt.
- hiking pants
- fleece hoodie sweater.
- rain jacket and pants or poncho.(fall)
- Thermal Under layer (preferred Smart Wool at least 125g)
- Fleece or Wool Hat
- Warm lightweight jacket (Preferably Down)
- Mid-heavy snow Gloves
- Outer waterproof layer
- Extra Layer Light weight
- Winter weight hiking boots (water Proof)