Are you just getting into hiking? 

Want to try it out and don’t know what to wear? 

Have you been hiking a while and looking for something more appealing and comfortable?

Hiking is becoming so popular for various reasons, especially during covid and not being able to travel as much internationally.

Knowing what to wear in different seasons and conditions is vital to your experience and, ultimately, your survival.

Here is a list of what to wear hiking for summer 2022!

Hiking Boots/Shoes

I will start with what I consider the most critical piece of hiking outfits.

It cannot be stressed enough to have comfortable and correct footwear during hiking. 

Knowing how to pick the right size and fit will save you money, time, many blisters, and aching feet. 

Here is a video that shows how to correctly choose the proper footwear for you! 

**I do not know this person, and this is not a paid advertisement. I found this video to be short and very informative. **

In this category, you get what you pay for.

Some top brands are Salomon, Keen, Merrell, and Teva.

Pro tip: Make sure you break in your shoes or boots by wearing them around the house or running errands for a while before you wear them for hiking. 

If you buy boots with ankle support, I have found that my ankles will be sore after not hiking in a while because they are getting used to having extended support again. 

Bottoms

Since we are approaching the warm summer months in the United States, wearing appropriate bottoms for hiking is essential, so you don’t overheat.

Shorts, leggings, and pants alike made out of polyester are my typical go-to options. 

Polyester is perfect for summer hiking because it dries very quickly, is very light, and is a strong material. 

This material is excellent for hiking in water or if you plan on doing some long, uphill hikes and sweating a bunch. 

Tops/Bras

Tops are versatile during the summer making them easy to love and pair with anything.

If you are looking for that fabulous Instagram pic or viral TikTok look, then wearing a comfy sports bra is the way to go.

Some favorites of mine can be found at REI and Athleta. (REI also carries the Athleta brand)

They have a pretty good range of sizes, in my opinion!

A downside to this is that REI is not everywhere; even though they have a website, it’s still good to try things on before buying them.

They are also on the more expensive side.

Another kind I like that is tried and true for me is Nike. (All political views aside, they last, and if you have an outlet mall near you, they are cheap.)

The medium-dry fit sports bras will last you YEARS. (I’ve had one of mine since 2011, and we are still going strong!)

If you aren’t into just wearing a sports bra through the trails, then light-colored, loose-fitting tanks or t-shirts are always in style and will keep you nice and cool.

Socks

Socks matter, y’all!

Finding socks that give you enough padding without causing friction against your skin is imperative. 

As mentioned in the video above, I’m not sure who came up with the phrase, “cotton is rotten,” but it’s true in hiking socks. 

Always, always, always go for merino wool. 

I promise, even though they are wool, you will not be itchy or hot, and merino wool is also rapid drying. 

Some top brands are https://darntough.com and https://www.smartwool.com

If you are allergic to wool, there are alternatives!

Finding a product with a wool-like material like acrylic would be ideal. 

Here is a website I found with more suggestions for those with wool allergies and where to purchase https://thehikingauthority.com/wool-sock-alternatives-for-wool-allergies/

Hair/Hats

It may not seem like it, but hair and hats are definitely part of hiking outfits for summer 2022.

If you have short hair but still want to keep the sun off your neck and face, I highly recommend a hat that will not come off easily with a good fit or a hairband with good coverage.

If you have long hair, wearing your hair down on a 10-mile hike in Death Valley in August is not ideal, and you will be miserable. 

Getting that shot for Instagram or video for TikTok with your hair down? I suggest shorter hikes that are shaded! 

There are tons of shorter hikes with spectacular views around the country, perfect for those social media pics. 

**Please do not put yourself and your health at risk by potentially being overheated. Social media is not worth your life. **

Putting your hair up in a high pony or a braid or braids is perfect. 

You can also wear a headband or hat with your hair up to further protect yourself from the sun and stay cool.

Hiking is fantastic exercise, a great way to destress, take advantage of the outdoors, and get some much-needed vitamin D. However, knowing what hiking outfits to wear in summer 2022 is essential for your health and wellness while on the trails. You can be smart about what you choose to wear while also being trendy. Do your research, try different outfits on and walk around in them to see if they rub or chafe anywhere that might cause issues. Break your shoes in before wearing them on a high mileage hike, and find a comfortable backpack on your body. Thanks for reading about What to Wear Hiking for summer 2022!!