In this guide, I’ll break down how to choose the best insulated skirts for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking, and running.

I’ve got everything you need to know about insulated skirts including:

• Why would you want an insulated skirt? Why are puffer skirts great for winter sports?
• My picks for the Best insulated skirts in several categories: Which puffy skirts are best for cross-country skiing, budget shoppers, ultralight freaks, and more?
• How to choose an insulated skirt: What insulation type and features should you look for?

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

My Quick Picks

• Most comfortable insulated skirt: Smartwool Smartloft Pull-On Skirt
• Best down-insulated skirt: Mountain Hardwear StretchDown Skirt
• Best insulated skirt for running and cross-country skiing: Swix Mayen Quilted Skirt
• Best budget insulated skirt: MoFiz Quilted Puffer Skirt

Why Should You Wear an Insulated Skirt?

The first time I saw an insulated skirt I laughed. They seemed like a frivolous item you’d wear for fashion reasons.

But then a few outdoor women in my life started raving about them. They said no matter what they wore, they often found that their butt and thighs got cold when they were skiing, snowshoeing, or winter running. And an insulated skirt solved that problem.

I was skeptical, but also hate having cold thighs so I got a puffy skirt. Having owned one for three winters now, I can honestly say I can’t imagine going without one. I love being able to slip on extra warmth when I’m cold, then take it off when I warm up.

You can layer an insulated skirt over ski pants, hiking pants, leggings, or even your base layer, so they work in lots of situations. Every time I wear my quilted puffer skirt, other women ask me about it, so I figured it was time to take the answers to all those questions and combine them into one article.

How I Picked

I’ve been hiking for over two decades. I also worked in an outdoor store for three years and wrote marketing materials for a large outdoor retailer for six yars. I spent a ton of time learning from their design team so I got really familiar with the properties of outdoor fabrics and garment construction.

For this guide, I drew on my outdoor industry experience as well as my personal experience with trying out insulated skirts. But since I haven’t tried all of the skirts in this guide, I also talked to friends, asked the members of several large women’s outdoor Facebook groups, and read dozens of online reviews.

There are lots of puffer skirts out there, so it can be difficult to choose. Lots of insulated skirts are designed for fashion or city use. But in this article I’m going to focus on puffy skirts designed for winter sports, specifically downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, running, and hiking.

The skirts I chose are all made with outdoor-ready materials that are water-resistant, wind-resistant, and warm. They are also designed for movement with waistbands that stay in place and stretchy panels to allow for long strides. All of these insulated skirts are also easy to take on and off when the temperature changes.

My Picks for the Best Insulated Skirts

Most Comfortable Insulated Skirt: Smartwool Smartloft Pull-On Skirt

Warmth: Moderate

Features: Insulated wool front and back panels. Stretchy fleece side panels and waistband. Merino wool lining. Side pockets.

This pull-on style insulated skirt from Smartwool is my go-to warm layer. My favorite part is the stretchy fleece side panels. They move with me so well that I forget I’m wearing it!

The cozy merino wool lining is super soft and adds a bit of warmth too. It’s such a nice contrast from the slippery nylon fabric that most skirts use.

The quilted front and back panels use unique recycled wool insulation that holds its warmth even when wet. Compared to other skirts on this list, it has a moderate amount of insulation. However, the wool insulation isn’t the lightest or most compressible compared to down or even synthetic.

This skirt also has two deep side pockets that are big enough to hold my phone. The wide waistband is comfortable and has a drawstring adjustment.

Note: The older version of this skirt is called the Smartwool Smartloft 60 Skirt. The only thing that has changed is the name.

Check prices:

Best Down-Insulated Skirt: Mountain Hardwear StretchDown Skirt

Warmth: High

Features: Insulated with 700-fill power down. Water-resistant fabric. Kangaroo handwarmer pocket

Mountain Hardwear’s StretchDown line of jackets, pants, and this skirt use an interesting stretchy fabric that has baffles woven right into it. That means that it doesn’t have tons of little stitch holes where down can escape and cold air can get in. The stretch aspect also makes it extra comfortable to wear when you’re moving.

The StretchDown Skirt uses 700 fill power RDS-certified down, which means that the down is traceable and meets animals welfare standards. It’s also fairly lightweight and compressible for the warmth.

This skirt is a pull-on style, which keeps the weight down. But it does have zippered handwarmer pockets on the sides and a zippered pocket on the back.

Check prices:

Best Insulated Skirt for Runners and Cross Country Skiers: Swix Mayen Quilted Skirt

Warmth: Moderate

Features: Synthetic insulation. Stretchy side panels. Full-length 2-way side zip.

Swix is a Norwegian cross country ski brand, so they understand how to make clothes that work when you’re working hard. The Swix Mayen Quilted Skirt moves with you, even if you’re taking long strides.

It has stretchy jersey side panels for lots of range of motion. You can also open up the 2-way full-length zip on the side to give you more room to move. The elastic waist helps it stay in place and the inside of the waistband is a soft, brushed material.

The skirt uses Primaloft synthetic insulation that stays warm when wet, which is great for sweaty sports like nordic skiing and winter running. It uses a moderate amount of insulation since this skirt is designed to be worn during aerobic activities.

Check Prices:

Best Budget Insulated Skirt: MoFiz Quilted Puffer Skirt

Warmth: Moderate

Features: Synthetic insulation. Stretchy fleece side panels.

If you’re not sure if an insulated skirt is right for you, the budget-priced MoFiz Quilted Puffer skirt available on Amazon is a good way to try it out. It uses inexpensive synthetic insulation and has stretchy fleece side panels.

It also has a full zipper to make it easy to put on and take off. There are also two zippered side pockets. Honestly, this thing has a lot of features for such a low price.

I’ve tried other Amazon puffer skirts (the Baleaf one I have is discontinued now), and I think the biggest reason they are so inexpensive is that they use low quality synthetic insulation… and they don’t use very much of it.

That means the budget Amazon skirts aren’t as warm as others on this list. And it means they aren’t as compressible so they take up more room in your pack.

Check prices:

Best Plus-Size Insulated Skirt: Nothing!

In previous years I was able to recommend plus-size insulated skirt options. Unfortunately, I can’t find any plus-size skirts to recommend this year. Columbia used to make one (and in general, they are a great option for plus-size hiking gear), but they discontinued it!

I’ve scoured the internet, and I’m very unhappy to report that I can’t find anything to recommend. Some of the budget skirts on Amazon come in XXL… but if you look at the measurements, they are actually more like an XL since they are made in Asian and run small.

If you’ve got a plus-sized puffer skirt to recommend, please message me and let me know. I’d love to update this post to add an option!

How to Choose an Insulated Skirt

Not all insulated skirts are created equal. Here’s a quick run-down on what to look for when you’re shopping for a puffer skirt.

Understand the Insulation

Synthetic insulation is made with polyester fibres that retain warmth when wet. It is less expensive than down, but it is also heavier and bulkier to achieve the same warmth as down. Some higher-end synthetic insulations like ThermoBall and Primaloft can mimic the properties of down, but they cost more.

Down insulation is made from the fluffy fibres found underneath the feathers of geese and ducks. Down is lighter and more compressible than synthetic insulation, which means you can use less of it to achieve the same warmth. But down is much more expensive.

If you are purchasing a down garment, choose ones that are Responsible Down Certified for animal welfare.

Regular down is useless once it gets wet. Look for down skirts with water-resistant fabrics or hydrophobic treatments that protect the down from moisture.

Down is also available in different qualities, known as fill-power. The higher the number, the fluffier it is, and therefore, the warmer it is. The most premium skirts use 800 or 900 fill-power down.

Wool insulation is another option. It is made of loose wool fibres that retain warmth. It is heavier than down or synthetic, but it provides warmth when wet.

Estimate Warmth

It can be tough to tell how warm an insulated skirt will be. But some brands publish specs for their insulation, which can help.

For synthetic insulated skirts, 60g insulation provides moderate warmth, while 100g insulation provides lots of warmth.

For down skirts, it’s a bit more tricky. In general, skirts with higher fill-power down will be warmer. BUT you can also achieve a warm skirt by using lots of lower fill-power down.

Have a look at the product description and reviews. Some puffer skirts are designed to be worn while doing aerobic activities like cross-country skiing, so they don’t need to be super warm. Others are ideal for staying warm while walking or standing still.

Get a Good Fit

Skirts can be tough to fit since they have to fit both your waist and your thighs and stay in place while walking, running, or skiing. Look for puffer skirts with stretch panels and comfortable waistbands. Zippers you can open to create a slit and get more range of motion are also great.

Easy On-Off

The beauty of an insulated skirt is that it functions as part of your layering system. You want it to be easy to put on when you get cold and take off when you warm up.

For really easy on/off, consider a skirt with a zipper closure. That way you don’t have to take off your skis or snowshoes to get it on.

The only disadvantages to zippered skirts is that some people find that the top of the zipper is uncomfortable at the waist or the zipper opens up while they are moving.

I wear a pull-on Smartwool skirt that has stretchy side panels – I find it easy enough to step into with my boots on (although I do have to take my snowshoes off).

Final Thoughts

So that’s everything you need to know to find the best insulated skirts for snowshoeing, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, running, and hiking. If you have any questions or alternative recommendations, leave them in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
• The Best Boots For Snowshoeing
• How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide
• 18 Best Hiking Leggings of 2022
• 12 Best Women’s Hiking Pants (Picks for Every Body Type)
• Best Hiking Underwear For Women and Men

The post Best Insulated Skirts For Hiking and Snowshoeing in 2026 appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’m a plus size hiker and it’s a struggle to find things that fit me. In this article, I’ll give you the low down on where to find women’s plus size hiking clothes in sizes up to size 22 and 3X. It includes a list of the best plus size hiking clothing brands and tips on where to buy them.

While there are a few niche and cottage brands, unfortunately they seem to crop up and then go out of business regularly – it’s a tough industry. While I encourage you to support niche brands, especially in the plus size space, in this post, I’m going to focus on brands that are widely available.

Hey there: Some of the brands mentioned in this article sent me clothing to try. You will find only my honest opinion below. As well, some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

What Sizes are Plus Size?

In general, sizes larger than size 12 are considered plus size in the outdoor industry. Some brands may carry up to a size 16. Traditionally, most hiking clothing companies have not made apparel in size 18 or larger.

However, a few companies now recognize that plus sizes make up a huge part of the clothing market. From what I’ve read, nearly 70% of American women wear a size 14 or larger so it makes sense that outdoor brands are beginning to offer clothing in extended sizes. This is in part because of the work of plus size outdoor activists like Mirna Valerio, Fat Girls Hiking, and Unlikely Hikers.

I want to be clear that I recognize that as a size 16 to 18, I still hold a lot of privilege in the plus size community. Many companies make hiking clothes in my size. The fit and style may sometimes suck, but at least my size is offered.

Active Wear Isn’t Designed for Hiking

In this article, I’m going to focus mainly on brands and companies that make plus size women’s clothing designed specifically for hiking. There are lots of places to source plus size activewear, from big box stores like Walmart and Old Navy to niche small businesses.

Thankfully, it’s much less challenging (although still not easy) to find plus size leggings and quick dry tops, mostly designed for working out or yoga.

Active wear pieces work fine for casual hikes, but they will rip on sharp rocks or pointy branches. And for all-weather hiking you will need base layers, a waterproof rainjacket and warm layers made of fleece, down, or synthetic insulation. And it’s MUCH more difficult to find those in plus sizes.

So that’s what I’m going to focus on here: a list of brands that make quality women’s plus size hiking clothes and info on where to find them.

Just a quick note: I recognize that hiking clothing can be expensive. But it doesn’t have to be! Check out my tips for saving money on hiking gear.

The Best Women’s Plus Size Hiking Clothing Brands

REI

In 2017, REI committed to offering more sizes in an effort to fit more women. Since then, they have had a dedicated plus size section on their site that usually includes over 1000 items of clothing from lots of different brands in sizes up to 26/5XL.

They also offer over 100 plus size items in their own REI Co-op brand including everything from hiking pants to rain jackets to quick dry shirts to base layers in sizes up to 5XL

For the full selection, you’ll have to shop online, but some of their larger stores do have a good plus size selection. Every time I’m in Seattle, I go to the giant downtown REI store. I’ve found great plus size hiking shorts there, as well as long-sleeved trekking shirts.

MEC

If you’re in Canada, MEC is probably your best bet for women’s plus size hiking clothing. They have been quietly expanding their assortment from a few different brands.

They used to just carry up to a size 14 or XL in most things, but in the last few years they’ve added a LOT of styles in size 16, 18 and XXL and a few up to size 4XL. However, most things over size 16 are online only. They’ve also started to offer a bigger size range in their house MEC brand.

Outdoor Research

Outdoor Research launched a huge extended size collection in 2021 with input from plus size outdoor influencers including Sam Ortiz and Kaila Walton. And unlike some brands that started offering plus size and then scaled back production, OR has kept making plus sizes every year since then.

Their range is available up to size 3X and up to 24W. They are also committed to charging the same price for all sizes, which is great.

They make all kinds of technical clothing in plus sizes, including the popular Echo sun hoodie – one of my favourite sun hoodies.

prAna

prAna used to make quite a few plus size styles, but in the last few years they have scaled back their extended size collection.

I’ve been a fan of their Halle pants for hiking for years. They used to stop at size 16 but now they are available up to size 22 as well! Find them on my list of the best women’s hiking pants.

Patagonia

After years of offering a pretty small range of sizes, Patagonia has quietly launched an extended size collection with sizes up 3XL. I have the Capilene Cool Daily Hoody, which I wear as a sun shirt – the fit is great.

Smartwool

If you’re looking for cozy warm base layers, Smartwool makes awesome ones made of moisture-wicking and antimicrobial merino wool. They offer plus sizes in a few of their styles up to size 3XL.

Their patterns are really cute too! I love my snowflake-patterned long underwear! I also love their merino wool hiking tops.

Columbia

Columbia is a great source for women’s plus size hiking clothes with over 200 items in their collection! S

Columbia has everything from rain jackets to snow pants to hiking shirts in extended sizes. Compared to some other brands, their clothing is pretty reasonably priced too.

The North Face

The North Face has an extended size range that includes jackets, tops, and pants in sizes up to 3X.

I have their Aphrodite Motion 2.0 Capris. They are meant for hiking, but I love them for travel too since they look a bit more like casual pants. They are stretchy and they breathe really well. I wore them a LOT during my trip to Australia. They are on my list of the best women’s hiking pants.

Helly Hansen

Scandinavian sailing brand Helly Hansen also makes great hiking clothing. They have a plus size collection that includes rain jackets, base layers, fleece, and ski clothing. I have the Helly Hansen Daybreaker Fleee. It’s a great basic.

Eddie Bauer

While Eddie Bauer makes lots of great casual clothing, they also have a huge selection of plus sized hiking clothing. So far I’ve tried their Trail Tight leggings, Guide Pro shorts, and the MicroTherm down jacket and love them all.

Athleta

Athleta is The Gap’s athletic apparel brand. They have a huge selection of clothing available up to size 3X. They make lots of work out clothing, but they also make great hiking pants and fleeces.

My favourite winter hiking tights are their Altitude Stash Tights are my favourite. (They made my list of the best hiking leggings.)

The Best Plus Size Hiking Gear Brands

Gregory

Gregory has been making backpacks since 1977. A few years ago they a launched a series of plus size backpacks. They have shoulder straps and hipbelts that are designed to fit bigger bodies. The packs also have lots of adjustability since people’s bodies come in lots of different proportions. The plus size collection includes both day packs and backpacking packs.

Osprey

Osprey also makes a handful of plus size packs as part of their extended size collection. They offer a few day packs, backpacking packs, and waist packs with lots of adjustability, longer straps, and repositioned pockets.

Marmot

While they aren’t labelled as plus-size, Marmot makes lots of plus-size-friendly sleeping bags. Just look for their sleeping bags available in “wide” sizes – they have a few extra inches around the hips and shoulders to fit bigger bodies.

REI

In addition to making lots of plus size clothes, REI also makes plus size sleeping bags. Their popular Magma sleeping bags, along with a few other models, come in wide sizes that will fit most plus size people.

Plus Size Sleeping Pads

While you won’t find them labelled as plus-size, many brands make plus-size-friendly sleeping pads. Look for pads labelled as wide or long. In general, look for pads that are over 22″ wide.

A few brands to consider are NEMO, Therm-a-Rest, Big Agnes, and Sea to Summit. I love my long and wide Sea to Summit Ether Light XT pad.

Final Thoughts

So there’s my list of the best places to find plus size hiking clothes for women. I hope you find it helpful. If you have a women’s plus size hiking clothes brand to recommend, please tell me in the comments. I’d love to add more resources to this list!

READ NEXT: MORE ADVICE FOR FEMALE HIKERS

• Which Women’s Hiking Gear is Actually Worth Buying? (and which can you buy unisex?)
• 12 Best Women’s Hiking Pants (Picks for Every Body Type)
• How to Camp and Hike on Your Period
• Best Hiking Underwear For Women and Men
• 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear
• 18 Best Hiking Leggings

The post Where to Find Women’s Plus Size Hiking Clothes and Gear appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

If you haven’t heard of them, sun hoodies are lightweight, breathable, hooded long-sleeved t-shirts designed to protect your skin from the sun. Unlike traditional button-up sunshirts that use woven fabric, they use knit fabric that is more open and breathes better. And of course, they also have a hood.

They come in all kinds of fabrics and cuts that aren’t created equal. Some offer much more sun protection than others, and some are more comfortable than others. It can be hard to choose. Plus this technology doesn’t come cheap.

I’ve been hiking for over two decades. These days I’m a full-time outdoor writer and guidebook author, so I hike a lot. I also worked in outdoor retail for over a decade both in-store helping customers and at the head office writing marketing materials. So I know far too much about hiking gear design and fabrics.

I’ve tried all of the sun hoodies in this guide. I’ve sweated in them and worn them for days on end. Backpack straps have rubbed them. Branches have poked them. And in one case, I took an end-over-end tumble down a steep trail that left me bruised for weeks, but didn’t rip my sun hoodie!

Hey there: I bought most of the gear in this post with my own money, but some of the products in this post were gifts from brands. I also received lots of other gear that didn’t make the cut so you can be sure that I only share info about products that I really use and love. As well, some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Want to skip right to the point? My top pick is the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Hoodie because its stretchy fabric is the most comfortable in all conditions.

In this post you’ll find:

• Quick picks: jump right to the list of sun hoodies I recommend
• Why wear a sun hoodie? Find out why I like them more than regular shirts.
• The best sun hoodies for hiking – my top 6 picks plus 4 more I want to try
• How to choose a sun hoodie – Info about UPF ratings, fabric, construction, and key features

Quick Picks

Best All-Around Sun Hoodie: Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Hoodie

Best Fully-Featured Sun Hoodie: Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoodie

Best Casual-Looking Sun Hoodie: Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoodie

Best Merino Wool Sun Hoodie: Outdoor Vitals Tern Ultralight Hoodie

Best Lightweight Sun Hoodie: Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie

Best Shoulder Season Sun Hoodie: Helly Hansen Lifa Active Solen Hoodie

Why Wear a Sun Hoodie?

If you haven’t tried one yet, you might be wondering why I love wearing sun hoodies when I hike. I was skeptical at first too because I thought that wearing long sleeves and a hood in high temperatures would be hot.

It turns out that most sun hoodies aren’t too hot because they use high-tech fabric that is thin, breathable and sometimes has a cooling finish (more on that in the how to choose section at the bottom). Counterintuitively, many people feel cooler when less of their skin is exposed to the sun – it’s like your skin is in the shade.

But the biggest benefit of sun hoodies is that I don’t have to worry about reapplying sunscreen since my arms, neck, and ears are covered. (Some sun hoodies also cover the backs of my hands.) I sweat a lot, so when I used to hike in a tank top or short-sleeved shirt, I had to constantly reapply sunscreen. It sucked.

I also love the hood: I can put it up when I’m in the full sun and I need extra sun protection on my neck and ears, then put it down when I’m doing a steep climb in the shade of the forest and want a bit more airflow.

After trying my first sun hoodie (the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake) a few years ago, I was hooked. These days I wear a sun hoodie on most outdoor adventures.

Best Sun Hoodies for Hikers

Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Hoody: Best All-Around Sun Hoodie

UPF Rating: 50+

Price: $70USD/$80CAD

Fabric: 120 gsm 88% polyester, 12% elastane with HeiQ odor control

Weight: 119g

Pros: Stretchy, lightweight fabric is soft and comfortable when wet or dry, anti-odor treatment works well, has thumb holes

Cons: The drawcord is useless and gets in the way, the hood is very loose-fitting

Where to Buy: REI | Mountain Hardwear USA | Mountain Hardwear Canada | Amazon

The Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Sun Hoody was the first sun hoodie I got, and it didn’t take long to win me over. I’ve had this shirt for about three years and have worn it on dozens of trips. It made my list of my favourite gear of 2022.

I keep coming back to it thanks to the incredible fabric. It is soft, really stretchy, and relatively lightweight. It also feels good against my skin both wet and dry and doesn’t feel too hot.

The fabric has a HeiQ odor-control treatment that has held up fairly well. I have worn it day after day on multi-day trips and it doesn’t smell too bad at the end.

The cut of the shirt is almost like a basic T-shirt, but it does have panels down the sides, which add a bit of mobility. It also has flatlocked seams, so it doesn’t chafe or rub.

I like the simple thumb holes and slightly longer sleeves are easy to fit over my hands for extra sun protection. But the overlap hood gapes around my neck, which leaves it exposed to the sun. The hood is also a bit oversized compared to others and blows off easily in the wind.

The shirt also has two really useless features: a zippered side pocket and a drawcord at the hem. The side pocket is tiny – it fits a key or a lip balm. But I always have shorts with pockets or a bag of some kind, so I never use it.

The drawcord is ridiculous. I think maybe it’s a style choice since it’s only on the women’s version? It is completely unnecessary, gets caught in your backpack waistbelt, and one time I accidentally peed on it! I cut it out after a few months and haven’t looked back.

Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoody: Best Fully-Featured Sun Hoodie

UPF Rating: 50+

Price: $120 USD/$150 CAD

Fabric: 158 gsm 92% nylon, 8% elastane with a DWR finish and Polygiene odor control

Weight: 189g

Pros: Great ventilation, excellent technical fit, especially on the hood and thumb holes

Cons: Expensive, heavy, very “technical” look

Where to buy: Black Diamond | REI | Altitude Sports Canada | Amazon

I got the Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoody just a few months ago, so I haven’t had a chance to really test it on big hikes yet. But so far, I really like how breathable it feels.

The fabric feels cool to the touch, even when dry. And the big mesh panels under the arms are great at dumping heat. I also love the big chest zipper. I can open it up for ventilation in the shade, and unlike the short zippers on some other women’s shirts, it actually goes down to mid-chest.

While I don’t love the way this shirt makes me look like a technical hiking dork, I do appreciate the attention to detail in the way it is made.

The Alpenglow Pro has anatomical patterning with lots of seams that give you range of motion, which isn’t surprising since it’s designed for climbers. The raglan sleeves that won’t chafe under your backpack straps and big underarm gussets so there’s nothing to rub your armpits. It also uses flatlock seams.

It has well-designed thumb holes that lie flat to reduce discomfort if you’re using them with hiking poles. And the hood fits tightly thanks to the elastic edging. This is the only sun hoodie I have that stands up to the wind.

I don’t use the chest pocket, so it seems kind of unnecessary. And all those technical features and construction details make this shirt one of the heaviest and most expensive on the list.

Note: Black Diamond makes another, more basic sun hoody called the Alpenglow (without “Pro” in the name), but I haven’t tried it.

Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoody: Best Casual Sun Hoodie

UPF Rating: Not currently rated (previous versions rated 20+)

Price: $65 USD/$79CAD

Fabric: 104 gsm 100% recycled polyester with HeiQ odor control and a wicking finish

Weight: 147g

Pros: Great casual look, fabric feels amazing and doesn’t absorb water

Cons: No UPF rating, only partial flat lock seams, no UPF rating, no thumb holes

Where to buy: Patagonia USA | Patagonia Canada | REI | Altitude Sports Canada

If I just look at the specs, the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoody doesn’t seem like something I would recommend. For the price, it doesn’t offer that much.

But the reason I keep coming back to this shirt is the fabric. It barely seems to absorb any water and I love the way it feels against my skin when it’s hot out. So far the anti-odor treatment has held up well too. This shirt made my list of my favourite hiking gear of 2023.

While the casual, less technical cut isn’t great for range of motion, I do like that I can wear it to a pub after a hike and blend in a bit more with people in street clothes.

But that less technical cut means that it could be prone to chafing in the armpits and side seams since it uses bulky overlock seams. (The construction section at the bottom of this post has more info.) The hood is also quite loose, so it blows off.

On the negative side, it doesn’t technically have a UPF rating right now because Patagonia had an issue with incorrect UPF numbers on some colors of a previous version of this shirt. Previous versions were rated UPF 20 to 34, which is fairly low for a sun hoody. (See the UPF rating section at the bottom for more info on how the ratings work.)

Outdoor Vitals Tern Ultralight Hoodie: Best Merino Wool Sun Hoodie

UPF Rating: 36+

Price: $85 USD/$119 CAD

Fabric: 115 gsm 63% Merino wool, 29% polyester, 8% nylon

Weight: 153g

Pros: Built-in anti-microbial properties of Merino will never wear out, stretchy fabric is comfortable

Cons: unisex fit, fabric is prone to pilling, requires delicate wash cycle, no thumb holes

Where to Buy: Outdoor Vitals

If you’ve followed my content for a while, you’ll know that I’m not the biggest fan of Merino wool. So I was pretty skeptical about the Outdoor Vitals Tern Ultralight Hoodie. But like the Odlo Kinship Performance Wool baselayer that made my list of my favourite hiking gear of 2023, it uses a unique NuYarn wool and synthetic blend.

Since the fabric is blended, you get the anti-microbial and temperature-regulating properties of Merino wool as well as the quick-drying property of synthetics. This blend is also super stretchy, which adds lots of comfort. And it’s really thin, which breathes well and cuts down on weight. I do still find it a bit warmer than similar synthetic hoodies though.

The major downside is that the fabric is delicate. I’ve only had this hoodie for a few months, but it already has noticeable pilling, especially on the back lumbar area where it rubs against my backpack. And like all Merino wool, this shirt is a diva when it comes to washing instructions. (But Outdoor Vitals warns about both of these things in their product description, so I knew what I was getting into.)

The construction of this shirt is great with raglan sleeves that are comfortable under backpack straps and underarm gussets for range of motion and less rubbing. It also has flatlock seams throughout. The scuba-style hood also provides more sun protection than the overlap style on most other sun hoodies. I’m surprised it doesn’t have thumb holes though.

But so far the Tern Ultralight Hoodie only comes in a unisex fit, which might not work for all women. I find the fit ok in the size I got, although I think I would have appreciated a bit more room in the chest. Also, the hood doesn’t fit properly if you’ve got long hair tied into a ponytail – it pulls the hood back too far.

Overall, I really like this sun hoodie, especially for colder weather. After using for a season, it made my list of my favourite gear of 2024.

Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie: Best Lightweight Sun Hoodie

UPF Rating: 15 or 20, depending on color

Price: $75 USD/$90 CAD

Fabric: 100% recycled polyester with odor control

Weight: 112g

Pros: Super light fabric, ponytail port

Cons: Low UPF rating, feels plastic-y when wet

Where to Buy: Outdoor Research | REI | MEC Canada | Amazon

The Outdoor Research Echo Hoody isn’t technically a sun hoodie since it has a low UPF rating of just 15 or 20, depending on the colour. (OR doesn’t market it as a sun hoodie and they actually make a different sun hoodie called the ActiveIce Spectrum Sun Hoodie which I want to try.)

But I’m including it on this list because so many people wear it as a sun hoodie. It’s a popular choice since it is incredibly lightweight and breathable. It also has a great scuba-style hood that fits really closely to keep the sun off your neck.

I really like how light the fabric is on the Echo hoody, but when it gets wet, it feels quite plastic-y and sticks to skin in a way I don’t love. But I have to be sweating a ton for that to happen.

I also love the construction of this hoody – it has all the technical features I’m looking for: flat seams, raglan sleeves, side panels, and thumb holes.

But my favourite part is the ponytail port in the hood – it’s a little overlapping slit at the back to thread your ponytail through. I hate the way my sweaty hair sticks to my neck inside other sun hoodies and this one solves that problem. Unfortunately, only the women’s version has this feature even people of all genders have long hair too.

Helly Hansen Lifa ACTIVE Solen Hoodie: Best Shoulder Season Sun Hoodie

UPF Rating: 50+

Price: $80USD/$90 CAD

Fabric: 60% recycled polyester, 40% polypropylene with S.Cafe odor control

Weight: 210g

Pros: Thicker weight is good for colder temperatures, dries quickly

Cons: Heavy, fabric is prone to snagging and staining, no thumb holes

Where to Buy: Helly Hansen | Amazon | Altitude Sports Canada

The Helly Hansen Lifa Active Solen Hoody is a bit thicker and heavier than other sun hoodies on this list thanks to the double-knit construction. The layer next to your skin is white and then the outside layer is colored. I find it a bit hot in high temperatures, but it is perfect in mid-range temps when it is sunny and you want to hike in just a t-shirt and then put on a jacket when you stop because it’s cold out.

The fabric content on this shirt is a bit different than others on this list because it uses polypropylene blended with polyester. Polypropylene used to be popular in technical wear in the 90s, but most brands have moved away from it since it gets stinky incredibly fast. But, it does wick sweat and dry super fast.

In the Lifa Active Solen, Helly Hansen used an interesting S.Cafe odor control treatment made from coffee to combat the potential stink. In my experience, it works – the shirt doesn’t absorb much water and it dries really fast. And so far it doesn’t smell.

However, my other nitpick with the fabric is that is very prone to snagging. I don’t wear it that often, but it still has tons of small pulls and snags in the fabric. I also wore it on a muddy mountain bike ride and the mud stains have never come all the way out.

The construction of this shirt is pretty basic – it fits like a regular t-shirt for the most part. But it does use flat seams to reduce chafing. And for some reason, the hood has two layers of fabric, which makes it extra heavy and hot.

Other Good Sun Hoodies

Since I’m not made of money and I really don’t need to own any more sun hoodies than I already do, I haven’t tested every single sun hoodie out there. But there are a few more sun hoodies on the market that I’ve heard good things about. (And that I might just be planning to buy.)

REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie: A great budget-friendly option ($50 USD) with a drawstring hood and stretchy fabric.

Outdoor Research ActiveIce Spectrum Sun Hoodie: A similar fit to the OR Echo but with much better sun protection (UPF 50+) and a stretchy fabric with a cooling finish.

Ridge Merino Solstice Hoody: A classic lightweight Merino wool hoody with UPF 30 sun protection at a reasonable price for Merino ($80 USD).

Willit UPF 50+ Sun Protection Hoodie: A cheap Amazon favourite that purports to have UPF 50+ sun protection without being too thick. (Can you tell I’m skeptical?) I recently bought this one and will be testing it soon.

How to Choose a Sun Hoodie

Not all sun hoodies are created equal. There can be huge differences in UPF rating (for sun protection), fabric, construction, and features. In fact, some sun hoodies don’t actually provide that much sun protection at all!

When I worked at the head office of a big outdoor retailer, I spent tons of time talking to the clothing designers and fabric developers to really understand the tech behind outdoor clothing. Below I’m sharing what I’ve learned about choosing a sun hoodie.

UPF Sun Protection

The most important feature of a sun hoodie is that it should actually protect you from the sun.

What Does UPF Mean?

To be marketed as a sun hoodie, a shirt must have a UPF rating. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It measures how much UVA and UVB radiation can reach your skin through the fabric.

For example, a UPF Rating of 50 means that 1/50th of the sun’s UV rays will reach your skin. Therefore, the fabric blocks 98% of UV rays.

UPF-rated fabrics block both UVB rays (which give you a sunburn) and UVA rays which can lead to skin cancer, wrinkles, sun damage spots, and premature aging.

It’s also worth pointing out that UPF ratings only apply when the fabric is dry. Once the fabric gets wet, the UPF rating goes down.

A quick note: SPF (short for Sun Protection Factor) is the rating system for sunscreen. SPF ratings are a guideline for how much longer you can stay out in the sun without burning. So for example, if you wear SPF 30 sunscreen, you can stay in the sun 30 times longer than with no sunscreen. As well, most sunscreen only protects you from UVB rays, not UVA rays.

What is a “Good” UPF Rating?

The UPF rating scale starts at 15 and maxes out at 50. Wearing a UPF 15-rated shirt sounds good… but it doesn’t provide very good sun protection. In fact, most regular synthetic technical clothing made of polyester or nylon has a UPF rating of about 15.

To really be considered sun-protective, clothing must have a high UPF rating. The American Skin Cancer Foundation will not give a garment their recommendation unless it has a UPF of at least 30. And in the EU, you can’t say clothing provides sun protection unless it has a UPF rating over 40.

That’s why the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily and Outdoor Research Echo aren’t technically sun hoodies. They do provide more sun protection than not wearing a shirt… but they don’t provide more sun protection than regular shirts.

What Makes Clothing Sun Protective?

It’s fairly easy to make clothing sun protective: make it dark and densely woven. But that won’t make them breathable, lightweight, or comfortable to wear.

For technical hiking clothing to be sun protective, there needs to be a fair amount of science involved, and that’s why sun hoodies can be expensive.

By themselves, polyester, nylon, and Merino wool have more sun protection than cotton. But to make them lightweight and breathable without making them see-through takes some innovation with the way the yarns are knit together to form the fabric.

Usually, the fabric alone won’t have enough UPF protection so they infuse fabric with titanium dioxide – the same stuff that is in sunscreen. Basically, this stuff reflects or absorbs UV rays before they reach your skin.

Low-end shirts (think cheap Chinese sun hoodies on Amazon) use a titanium finish on the shirt that will wash out. That makes your hoodies less protective and has some nasty environmental implications. But higher-end sun hoodies are made with fabric that has titanium dioxide embedded in the yarns of the shirt so they won’t wash out.

Fabric

Sun hoodies are generally made with technical synthetic or Merino wool fabrics to make sure they are lightweight and breathable. They also usually have a knit structure that mechanically wicks moisture away from your body. Some have a DWR finish or a wicking finish for even better moisture management.

In my opinion, one of the most important things to look for in a sun hoodie is an anti-odor treatment. You are going to be wearing this thing when you’re hot and sweaty. And sometimes, you’ll be wearing it for days at a time before you can wash it. It’s going to stink. Look for odor control or anti-odor treatments like HeiQ.

Note: You can find casual sun hoodies designed for travel or wearing as a bathing suit coverup made with cotton or linen blended with polyester fabric. I don’t recommend these for hiking since they hold on to water, which can chafe and make you uncomfortable. However, in hot and arid desert situations, staying wet can be a good thing.

Construction

The way a shirt is sewn can have a big impact on fit and comfort.

Seams

To start with, a sun hoody is something you wear when you are hot and sweaty, so you want it to be smooth against your skin. The type of seams used matters.

On low-end gear, you’ll find overlock seams. To sew this type of seam, you overlap two pieces of fabric, and then stitch along the edge. The seam sticks out a little, which can irritate your skin. Of the sun hoodies I recommend, only the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily uses overlock seams.

If you want to avoid chafing, look for flatlock seams. To make a flatlock seam, you place two pieces of fabric side by side, and then stitch them together without any overlap. The result is a seam that lays flat and doesn’t have a bump that can chafe you.

Flatlock seams use more thread so they are stronger and stretchier than overlock seams. However, they are more expensive. The Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake, Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro, Outdoor Vitals Tern Ultralight, Outdoor Research Echo, and Helly Hansen Solen all use flatlock seams.

Construction and Patterning

Patterning describes the way the shirt is sewn together. The placement of the seams is important because it influences fit and comfort.

The standard way to sew a shirt is to put a seam across the top of the shoulders. But if you wear a backpack, this seam can chafe and doesn’t allow for much range of movement. That’s why higher end shirts use raglan sleeves – the type of seams you see on a baseball tee.

The Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro, Outdoor Vitals Tern, and Outdoor Research Echo all have raglan sleeves.

Underarm seams are also important. Standard shirts use just one seam down the side of the shirt (like the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily). For a better fit, especially while moving, higher-end shirts use side panels. The Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake, Outdoor Research Echo and Helly Hansen Solen all have panels.

For even better fit and range of motion (especially overhead reaching) premium sun hoodies use an underarm gusset. It’s a side panel that extends all the way up through the underarm to the bottom of the sleeve. The Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro and Outdoor Vitals Tern have underarm gussets.

Features

Most sun hoodies are pretty basic. But a few have some extra features that can be handy. Here are some you might want to pay attention to.

Hood Type

Not all hoods are the same. The way the hood is sewn affects fit and sun protection.

Basic hoods have a small overlap of fabric at the bottom. The Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake, Patagonia Capilene Cool, and Helly Hansen Solen have this type of hood.

They tend to fit more loosely, which makes them feel more breathable. They are also cheaper to sew. But depending on how they are sewn (and how big your head is) they provide less sun coverage for your neck.

As well, since they are floppy, they can blow off easily in the wind. I spent a couple weeks hiking in Newfoundland this year and the wind wreaked havoc with my hoods.

The other type of hood is called a scuba hood. Scuba hoods come up high on the neck and have an oval head hole. This provides much better sun protection for your neck and in my experience, stays on better. The Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro, Outdoor Vitals Tern, and Outdoor Research Echo have a scuba hood.

There are a few sun hoodies out there with a drawstring hood adjustment for better fit and sun protection, but I haven’t tried them. My Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro hoody has elastic trim around the edge, which keeps it in place better than some of my other hoods – it’s the only one that doesn’t regularly blow off my head. It’s meant to fit over a climbing helmet (which I haven’t tried) so it’s not super tight.

Thumb Holes

I prefer sun hoodies that have thumb holes. That way you can make sure the sleeves keep the backs of your hands covered. When I was trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal I learned the hard way that it’s very easy to burn the backs of your hands, especially at high altitudes.

There are lots of different ways to sew thumb holes into a shirt. The cheapest and easiest way is to create a slit along the seam, either along the cuff (for a horizontal hole like the Outdoor Research Echo) or along the side seam (for a vertical hole like the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake). These methods aren’t that durable, which can make a difference if you use your sun hoodie for biking or climbing. Or if you use trekking poles a lot.

A more sophisticated method of sewing thumb holes is to create a dedicated flap with a separate piece of fabric that forms the cuff. My Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro Hoodie has these and they are way more comfortable to use with trekking poles. They also are more durable since I’m not pressing directly on a seam.

Pockets

I’m usually wearing my sun hoodie with a backpack (which has tons of pockets) and pants, shorts, or hiking leggings (which also have pockets) so I don’t see the need for pockets on a sun hoodie. Nevertheless, some sun hoodies have one.

Sun hoodies typically have small zippered pockets on the chest (like the Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro) or side (like the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake). They’re big enough to carry a car key, credit card, or lip balm… but not much else.

Mesh Panels

While sun hoodie fabric is generally quite light and breathable, it’s not as breathable as mesh. Some hoodies have mesh panels in the underarms since that’s the area that gets the hottest. But since your underarms aren’t exposed to the sun, you don’t need sun-protective fabric there.

The Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro has mesh underarm panels and I do think they make a bit of a difference in venting excess heat.

Chest Vent

Some hoodies come with a 1/4 length chest zipper. While opening up a zippered chest vent exposes you to the sun, it can be a great way to cool off during shady stretches.

I often open up the chest vent on my Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro, and in general, I love this feature. The only downside is that the top of the zipper can rub your neck or the underside of your chin.

Ponytail Port

Ok, so this isn’t a feature that everyone will want, but I love it! I hate having my sweaty ponytail trapped inside my hood where it makes my neck all gross and damp.

So far, the only sun hoodie I know of with a ponytail port is the Women’s Outdoor Research Echo. Theirs uses an overlapping flap so you don’t notice it’s there until you stick a ponytail through it. I like this feature so much that I’m considering cutting a ponytail hole in some of my other sun hoodies! It also helps keep your hood on your head in the wind.

Final Thoughts

Since I got my first sun hoodie a few years ago, I’ve rarely hiked in anything else… and my collection of sun hoodies is now seven strong. I recommend all of the sun hoodies on this list, especially the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake. But since I haven’t tried all the sun hoodies out there, this is an evolving list – I know I’ll keep searching for the best sun hoodies for hiking.

What’s your favourite sun hoodie? Tell me in the comments?

READ NEXT:

• Tips for Hiking in Hot Weather
• Tips and Tricks for Hiking in the Desert
• Is Merino Wool Worth It? Pros and Cons

The post Best Sun Hoodies for Hiking appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve got everything you need to know about underwear for hiking including:

• What is the best hiking underwear for women? Broken down into all-around, merino, seamless, and budget categories
• What is the best hiking underwear for men? Broken down into all-around, pouch, merino, and budget categories
• How to choose hiking underwear: What fabrics, features, and fit should you look for?

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

My Picks

Best All-Around Women’s Hiking Underwear: Exofficio Give-N-Go Sport Mesh

Best Seamless Women’s Hiking Underwear: Patagonia Active

Best Merino Wool Women’s Hiking Underwear: Branwyn Essential

Best Budget Women’s Hiking Underwear: Under Armour Pure Stretch

Best All-Around Men’s Hiking Underwear Without a Pouch: Exofficio Give-N-Go Sport Mesh

Best All-Around Men’s Hiking Underwear With a Pouch: Saxx Kinetic HD

Best Merino Wool Men’s Hiking Underwear: Icebreaker Anatomica

Best Budget Men’s Hiking Underwear: New Balance Mesh

How I Picked

I’ve been hiking for two decades. I’ve also spent three years working in an outdoor store and six years writing marketing materials for a large outdoor retailer. I wrote website descriptions and gear guides for thousands of different products. I spent a ton of time learning from their design team so I got really familiar with the properties of outdoor fabrics and garment construction.

For this guide, I drew upon my outdoor industry experience and my personal experience with trying lots of different types of underwear for hiking. But I also talked to friends, asked the members of my 12,000-member strong Backpacking in BC Facebook group, and read dozens of online reviews. The result is a comprehensive look at the best hiking underwear out there for every person.

Best Hiking Underwear for Women

Best All-Around Women’s Hiking Underwear: Exofficio Give-N-Go Sport Mesh

Price: $15-24

Styles: bikini brief, hipster, boy short

Fabric: 90% nylon, 10% elastane mesh is breathable and lightweight.

Features: Anti-odor treatment, flatlock seams, flat waistband.

Weight: 30g (bikini briefs)

I had heard a lot of positive reviews about the Exofficio Give-N-Go Sport Mesh hiking panties but for some reason, I didn’t try them until last year. I was worried that since they aren’t seamless, they might chafe. So far, I’ve worn the bikini brief version on three backpacking trips and lots of day hikes. They are super comfortable, stay in place, don’t absorb sweat, and dry really fast. They also seem very breathable, thanks to the mesh fabric. Also no chafing!

They start to pill a little bit over time, but they seem to be moderately durable anyway. I accidentally washed them with my ankle brace and the velcro from it got caught on them. That section looks a bit scuffed, but otherwise, they survived fine.

After a few years of fairly heavy wear, I’ve also noticed that the elastic waist band and leg edging is getting a bit saggy as the elastic stretches out. But that’s to be expected with elastic – it breaks down.

They are also fairly reasonably priced for technical underwear, and I know I’ll be picking up a few more pairs. And great news for plus-sized women: they come in sizes XS to 3XL.

Where to buy: Amazon

Best Seamless Women’s Hiking Underwear: Patagonia Active

Price: $29

Styles: briefs or hipster

Fabric: 88% nylon, 12% spandex is soft, lightweight, and stretchy

Features: Totally seamless construction, anti-odor treatment

Weight: 33g (briefs)

Patagonia’s Active Hipsters have been my go-to hiking underwear for years. I love that they are completely seamless so they don’t chafe or rub. They are also really soft. Over time, I’ve also found them really durable: I have some pairs that are nearly ten years old! The only downside with these is that they are frequently out of stock.

They have a wide waistband that doesn’t move and they provide a fair amount of rear coverage. However, if you like a higher rise cut, you may want to go with the briefs since the hipsters sit pretty low.

Where to buy: Patagonia | Patagonia Canada

Best Merino Wool Women’s Hiking Underwear: Branwyn Essential

Price: $38

Styles: Thong, bikini, or hipster

Fabric: 81% merino wool, 12% nylon, 7% elastane doesn’t itch. The merino wool wicks sweat while the nylon adds durability and stretch.

Features: Naturally odor-resistant thanks to merino wool

Weight: Not available.

If you’ve followed my content, you know that I don’t really love merino wool since it absorbs more water than synthetics. Read my guide to whether Merino wool is worth it for more thoughts.

BUT… these Brandwyn Essential underwear pleasantly surprised me. I’ve worn them for a whole season and so far they haven’t chafed me or felt too damp. In fact, I liked them so much that they made my list of my favourite gear of 2024.

My other main beef with merino is that it isn’t very durable, but my Branwyn underwear has held up really well so far – no tiny mystery holes like I’ve gotten with other merino underwear. I think the secret with these is the fabric. It’s a bit thicker than most other merino underwear that I’ve tried, which adds to the durability.

I also really love the fit on these. Most hiking underwear tends to be fairly low-waisted, but these are a bit higher, which feels more comfortable for me.

Where to buy: Branwyn

Another good merino option: I previously recommended the Icebreaker Merino Siren in the merino hiking underwear category. They are still great, but I like the Branwyns more.

Best Budget Women’s Hiking Underwear: Under Armour Pure Stretch

Price: $20-30 for a pack of three

Styles: Hipster or thong

Fabric: 68%nylon, 32% elastane fabric with a cotton gusset is soft, stretchy, and very thin

Features: Laser-cut edges mean no seams at waistband or leg openings, anti-microbial odor-resistant treatment

Weight: 20g

For the price, the nearly seamless Under Armor Pure Stretch panties are great for hiking. They dry super-quickly and feel like you’re wearing nothing. However, the fit is a bit hit-or-miss. I find that the hipster style is a bit cheeky and doesn’t have great coverage – they give we a wedgie sometimes.

They are also a bit more low-rise than I’d like. From reviews I’ve read and my experience, it seems like curvier women may want to size up. I also don’t love the cotton gusset as it absorbs water and isn’t that comfortable.

But if you do like the fit of these Under Armour hiking underwear, they are a great budget option. Tons of online reviewers (and members of the Backpacking in BC Facebook group) love them.

Where to buy: Amazon

Best Hiking Underwear for Men

Best All-Around Men’s Hiking Underwear Without a Pouch: Exofficio Give-N-Go Sport Mesh

Price: $13-26

Styles: Brief or boxer brief

Fabric: 90% nylon, 10% elastane mesh is breathable and lightweight

Features: Anti-odor treatment, flatlock seams, wide waistband.

Weight: 40g (boxer briefs)

When I was researching the best hiking boxers for men, these Exofficio underwear just kept coming up in recommendations. They are made of the same fabric as the women’s version which means they wick sweat and dry quickly. Reviewers say they fit snugly and don’t ride up or bunch. They are also really breathable so you won’t overheat.

These men’s underwear are available in both briefs and boxer briefs. And the boxer briefs are available in 3″, 6″, and 9″ inseams so you can choose the amount of leg coverage you like. With thousands of positive reviews online, it’s easy to say these are the most popular men’s hiking and adventure travel underwear.

Where to buy: Amazon

Best All-Around Men’s Hiking Underwear With a Pouch: Saxx Kinetic HD

Price: $35

Style: boxer brief, long leg boxer brief

Fabric: 85% nylon, 15% elastane is stretchy, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying

Features: Anatomical pouch supports the package and prevents chafing, flatlock seams are soft on skin, nine-panel construction creates an ergonomic fit, odor-resistant fabric, anti-roll waistband

Weight: 72g

Pretty much every guy I asked about hiking underwear recommended the Saxx Kinetic (including a bunch in my Backpacking in BC Facebook group). Saxx is the first company to offer under with a game-changing pouch that keeps the package separate from the legs. They are based in my hometown of Vancouver too!

The men I talked to raved about the pouch and the comfortable, quick-drying fabric. Most of my male hiking friends switched to these years ago and said they can never go back to regular underwear. Most people love the regular boxer briefs that have a 5″ inseam, but if you want more coverage, they also come in a long leg version with an 8″ inseam.

Where to buy: Amazon | MEC | Saxx USA | Saxx Canada

Best Merino Wool Men’s Hiking Underwear: Icebreaker Anatomica

Price: $45-60

Style: brief, boxer brief, long boxer brief

Fabric: 83% merino wool, 12% nylon, 5% elastane is soft, stretchy, and doesn’t itch. The merino wool wicks sweat while the nylon adds durability and stretch.

Features: Naturally odor-resistant thanks to merino wool, contoured pouch, flatlock seams

Weight: 80g (boxers)

Lots of people love merino wool underwear since it is really stink-resistant. Merino wool also wicks sweat and is soft on the skin. If you look up reviews of merino wool men’s hiking underwear, you’ll find lots of people complaining that they get small holes on the inner thighs from rubbing against pants.

However, that doesn’t happen as fast with these Icebreaker ones since they have nylon and elastane blended in with the merino for increased durability. (Read my thoughts on Merino wool in my Is Merino Wool Worth it? post.)

If you want merino wool boxers for hiking, you’ll love these Icebreaker Anatomic underwear. The boxer briefs are available with or without a fly and they come in briefs too.

Where to buy: Amazon | MEC | Icebreaker USA | Icebreaker Canada

Best Budget Men’s Hiking Underwear: New Balance Mesh

Price: $19 for a pack of three

Style: boxer brief

Fabric: 90% polyester, 10% spandex mesh is soft and lightweight

Features: Wide elastic waistband, supportive pouch, flat locked stitching, available either with or without a fly

Weight: not available

If you’re looking for some basic and inexpensive men’s hiking underwear, these New Balance boxer briefs fit the bill. They are fairly lightweight and wick moisture. The flatlock stitching and wide waistband reduces chafe. Hundreds of online reviewers and a few members of the Backpacking in BC Facebook group raved about them.

Where to buy: Amazon

How to Choose Hiking Underwear

When I first started hiking, I didn’t think I needed to worry about what underwear to wear. But then things got hot, sweaty, and…. uncomfortable. I learned that for me (and for lots of other people), underwear choice can make or break a hike. So what should you look for when shopping for hiking underwear?

Which Fabric is Best?

Cotton underwear is great for everyday use. It’s soft and comfortable. But it absorbs water and dries really slowly. When you’re hiking, cotton is a great recipe for rubbing, chafing, and being generally uncomfortable.

The best fabrics for hiking underwear are synthetics (nylon or polyester) or merino wool since they wick sweat and dry quickly. You may also see underwear for hiking made of rayon or Tencel. Both of those fabrics are incredibly soft, but unfortunately, that means they aren’t that durable and may not stand up to inner thigh rubbing.

To ensure a good fit, look for hiking underwear with stretch. That means that the fabric should have some elastane. (It’s also sold under the brand names Spandex and Lycra.)

Moisture-Wicking

Hiking is sweaty, so choose underwear that is moisture-wicking to move wetness away from your body. Avoid cotton which absorbs water. Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon are great at wicking moisture. Merino wool also wicks well.

Quick-Drying

The last thing you want is to sit around in a pair of wet underwear. That makes quick-drying fabrics key, especially for backpacking underwear. Nylon and polyester dry the fastest.

Merino wool wicks moisture but holds some of it in the core of the fibres. That means it doesn’t dry quite as quickly as synthetics, but as a bonus, it will keep you cooler in hot weather.

A Comfortable Fit

You want to make sure your underwear isn’t moving around while you are hiking. Choose hiking underwear that fit well. You want them to stay in place, but you don’t want them to be too tight. You also don’t want them to be too loose because then they will bunch up and rub. Keep in mind that in order to wick sweat, the fabric needs to be in contact with your skin.

Prevents Chafing

Seams, tags, waistbands… they can all dig in, get wet, and then chafe your skin until it’s red and angry. Close your eyes and run the underwear through your fingers before you wear it. Really FEEL it. Look for hiking underwear with no tags and with comfortable flat waistbands. Seamless underwear or ones with flatlock seams will also prevent chafing.

Durable

Hiking underwear isn’t cheap, so you want to choose a pair that won’t fall apart. Super-thin material is appealing since it’s lightweight, but it may also fall apart faster. Merino wool is also MUCH less abrasion-resistant than synthetics so it can develop holes easily.

Odor Resistant

Butts and crotches get smelly, especially on multi-day trips. Some synthetic underwear for hiking often comes with antimicrobial treatments that reduce odors. But they do wear off over time. Merino wool is naturally antimicrobial.

Got stinky hiking underwear? Read my guide to getting the smell out of hiking clothing.

A Style You Like

Hiking underwear comes in many different styles. For men, you can choose between briefs, boxers, and boxer briefs. Women’s underwear for hiking is available in seemingly endless cuts from tiny thongs to full-cut boyshorts and everything in between.

Choose a style that is most comfortable for you. If you find that you experience inner-thigh chafing, opt for boxer brief or boy short styles that provide some protection in that area.

Final Thoughts

So that’s everything you need to know to find the best hiking underwear. If you have questions or alternative recommendations, leave them in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear
• 18 Best Hiking Leggings
• 12 Best Women’s Hiking Pants (Picks for Every Body Type)
• How to Get the Smell Out of Hiking Clothes
• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
• Backpacking Checklist: Gear You Need To Go Backpacking
• 40 Best Gifts for Backpackers

The post Best Hiking Underwear For Women and Men appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve been hiking and backpacking for two decades, mostly in the wet Pacific Northwest weather of British Columbia. Over the years, I’ve tried a lot of rain jackets.

And for seven years I worked at the head office of a large Canadian outdoor brand. My job was to write product guides and staff training materials, so I spent a lot of time working with the design and fabric teams to learn everything there is to know about outdoor fabric technologies.

In this article, I’ll give you everything you need to know about why rain jackets wet out. This guide includes:

• Why do rain jackets wet out? Four reasons your jacket might be leaking (or feel like it is leaking)
• How to prevent your rain jacket from wetting out: Five things you can do to stay dry

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Why Do Rain Jackets Wet Out?

There are a few key reasons why your rain jacket is wetting out. The DWR coating wearing off is the most common one, but I’ll also explore other explanations such as clogged membranes, condensation build-up and failures of the membrane or seam sealing below.

DWR Coating Wears Off

The most common reason why your rain jacket might be wetting out is because the DWR coating has worn off.

DWR stands for Durable Water Repellency. It is a thin coating of fluoropolymer that forms microscopic chains of molecules in little spikes. These little spikes ensure that water droplets bead up rather than spreading out on the surface of your jacket.

But this coating is fairly fragile and wears off over time. One of the main ways DWR coatings wear off is due to abrasion from rubbing against things.

That’s why you’ll find the shoulders of your jacket wetting out first since they rub against your pack straps. You might also find your cuffs wetting out since your hands bump into things a lot. Dirt and body oils can can also contaminate the DWR.

When the DWR coating wears out, the little fluoropolymer spikes bend over or break. That stops the water droplets from beading up, so the water spreads across the surface of your jacket.

Without a DWR coating, the waterproof membrane in your jacket can still keep the water from coming in, but it can’t let water vapour from your sweat get out. That means that you will start to feel wet from the inside.

Unfortunately, since about 2016, the DWR on rain jackets has been wearing out faster. That’s because older DWR formulations worked better, but were less environmentally friendly. Newer DWR uses shorter chains of molecules, so the “spikes” aren’t as tall, so water doesn’t bead up as well. But that means that it isn’t as persistent in the environment, so it is safer for our planet.

Clogged Membrane

Your rain jacket has a waterproof breathable membrane that has tiny pores. The pores are small enough for water vapour from sweat to pass through (so you don’t overheat). But the pores aren’t big enough to let water droplets in.

Waterproof breathable membranes work great when they are new, but over time they can get clogged with dirt and body oils. Once the pores are clogged, water vapour can’t pass through and you’ll start to feel wet from the inside from sweat.

But there’s good news: You can wash your jacket to unclog the membrane and restore its waterproofing. (More about that in the prevention section below.)

Condensation

You might think that your jacket is leaking, but you are actually getting wet from sweat. This happens when your waterproof breathable membrane can’t let enough water vapour out and it starts to condense on the inside of your jacket.

You might get condensation because your DWR has worn off and water on the outside is blocking the pores of your membrane. Or you might have dirt and oil clogging your membrane.

Another reason for condensation build-up happens when you are generating too much body heat for your membrane. You might have a jacket with a low-quality membrane that just doesn’t breathe well. Or you might be working hard and sweating a lot. Humid weather makes the problem worse.

One of the key ways to fight condensation is to vent your jacket. Open up your arm-pit vents and chest vent. In warm weather, I don’t wear a rain jacket since it just wets out from the inside. Instead, I hike in a t-shirt and get wet. Then when I’m done hiking or get to camp, I change into a dry shirt and put my rain gear on.

Membrane and/or Seam Seal Failure

The last way that your rain jacket might be letting water in is if the membrane or seam seals have failed.

There are thousands of little needle holes along the seams in each waterproof jacket. Water can sneak in through these holes if they aren’t plugged. If you look at the inside of a rain jacket, you will see a layer of tape across each seam to keep water out.

Seam tape is stuck on with some kind of adhesive, and over time it can start to peel off or otherwise come unstuck. When this happens, your jacket will start to leak through the seams. Fortunately, you can reseal the seams with brush-on seam sealer.

The waterproof membrane in your jacket can also fail over time. When that happens, the waterproof breathable membrane can start to flake off, crack, or develop bubbles. At that point, unfortunately, there isn’t anything you can do to fix it – your jacket has reached the end of its life.

READ NEXT: 40+ Tips for Hiking in the Rain

How To Prevent Your Rain Jacket From Wetting Out

With a bit of planning and some on-the-trail techniques, it’s easy to prevent your rain jacket from wetting out. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Wash it!

For some reason, lots of people are scared to wash their rain jackets. Don’t be! Washing your jacket regularly helps retain its waterproofing!

Since dirt and oils can clog your membrane or wear down your DWR, washing your rain jacket is an important way to keep it from wetting out. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions when washing your jacket.

In general, close all zippers and Velcro, then wash it with a technical cleaner. I use Nikwax Tech Wash since it doesn’t leave behind residues like regular detergents can. Important note: washing your jacket with a technical cleaner will NOT wash off your DWR. Lots of people don’t wash their jackets because they are worried about wrecking their DWR. But as long as you use a technical wash, it’s better to wash your jacket than leave it all gunked up with dirt and oil.

Washing your jacket may be enough to restore its wet-weather performance. If you wear your jacket every day, you should wash it once a month. If you wear it less often, you can wash it less often.

With some jackets, putting them in the dryer on low or medium heat for about 20 minutes after washing can also help. But read the care label on your jacket first! Some shouldn’t go in the dryer.

Refresh the DWR

Why do rain jackets wet out? Because the DWR has worn off! If you have washed your jacket and it is still wetting out, it’s time to refresh the DWR. It’s fairly easy to do either by spraying on a new coating or washing your jacket with a special DWR wash.

I like Nikwax TX Direct Wash-in because it’s easy to use – you just throw your rain in the washing machine with TX Direct and it penetrates the entire garment so you don’t have to worry about even coverage.

I’ve used TX Direct Spray-On before since it lets you get more coverage on high-wear areas like cuffs and shoulders. But it is messy so you have to use it outside or in a bathtub. I also find it harder to ensure I’m getting even coverage so I end up using more product than I would for the wash-in method. In general, I prefer the wash-in versions for ease of use.

Vent it!

Rain jackets aren’t magic – sometimes it’s just so humid out and you’re sweating so much that the membrane just can’t keep up. That’s where vents come in. If you regularly hike in the rain and/or run hot, it’s important to buy a rain jacket that you can vent.

The most effective type of rain jacket vents are pit zips since that’s where your body gets the hottest. As well, it’s hard for rain to sneak in via pit zips since your arms cover them.

But opening up mesh-backed chest pockets can also help you vent. Or you can ease down the front zipper a few inches. Unfortunately, you lose some waterproofing when you open vents, but it can be worth it.

Reseal the Seams

If your seam tape is peeling off or bubbling up, you can fix it by applying a brush-on seam sealer like Seam Grip. However, this is a time-consuming process that can get messy if you aren’t careful. It also smells pretty bad. As well, the repaired seams will be a bit bumpy and not as pliable as the original tape.

However, if your seams are failing in many places, it may be a sign that your jacket has reached the end of its life. Check to see if the membrane is flaking off or bubbling too – seams and membranes often fail at the same time.

Buy a Quality Rain Jacket

You’ve probably heard the saying “Prevention is better than cure”. The easiest way to stop your rain jacket from wetting out is to buy a quality jacket to start with. Here are a few tips:

1. Buy from a Reputable Brand

There are tons of jackets on the market from different brands and with different types of waterproof technology. While the choices can be overwhelming, you can narrow it down a bit. Buy jackets from reputable outdoor brands who specialize in rainwear. Some safe bets are REI, MEC, Outdoor Research, Patagonia, Arc’Teryx, Helly Hansen, Mountain Hardwear, and Black Diamond. However, there are tons of other good brands.

Remember that most brands make a range of jackets and that cheaper jackets will generally have worse waterproof and breathable performance.

2. Pay Attention to Waterproof Breathable Technologies

While Gore-Tex used to be the gold standard, their patents expired in 1997 and many other brands use the exact same waterproof breathable technology.

Check to see if they list waterproof and breathable specs. Look for waterproofness of at least 10,000 mm. The higher the number, the more durable the waterproofing is.

For fabric breathability, get a jacket that is rated at least 20,000g/m2/24h. Higher numbers are more breathable and will take longer to wet out.

3. Understand Rain Jacket Construction (2.5-Layer vs. 3 Layer vs. 2-Layer)

Rain jackets come in a few different types of construction, some of which are more prone to clogged membranes. Understand the pros and cons of the type of jacket you are buying and how prone to wetting out it will be.

2.5-Layer Construction

Lightweight jackets often use what is called 2.5-layer technology. That means that the face fabric (1st layer) is laminated to the membrane (2nd layer). Then there is a thin scrim or veneer that is printed or sprayed on to protect the membrane (the .5 layer). This scrim is quite fragile and prone to breaking down from abrasion or body oils. But it makes the jackets rally light and easy to pack.

You can find both budget 2.5-layer jackets and high-end 2.5-layer jackets with more durable membranes. On the budget end, the Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket is popular and makes a great emergency shell, but the waterproofness and breathability are low.

On the high-end, I love my Mountain Hardwear Minimizer. It is super-light and compact, but the Gore-Tex Paclite Plus fabric means it has great waterproofness and breathability. (It made my list of my favourite gear of 2023.)

3-Layer Construction

Jackets with 3-layer construction laminate the face fabric to the membrane to a breathable inner liner fabric so the membrane is more protected. These tend to be premium jackets but they are a little bit heavier and bulkier than 2.5-layer jackets.

In sustained rain, I opt to wear my 3-layer MEC Synergy or Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity since they are more durably waterproof and breathable.

2-Layer Construction

In 2-layer construction, the face fabric and membrane are laminated together. A hanging liner (usually mesh) protects the inside and feels better against your skin.

2-layer jackets are heavy and bulky, but inexpensive. They usually use low-end membranes with lower waterproofing and breathability. Jackets with 2-layer construction are great for casual use or skiing, but I don’t recommend them for hiking.

Final Thoughts

So that’s everything you need to know about why rain jackets wet out and how to prevent it. Hopefully, this will help you stay drier on your next hike. Do you have rain jacket questions? Ask them in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• 40+ Tips for Hiking in the Rain
• The Best Weather Apps for Hiking
• How to Get the Smell Out of Hiking Clothes
• Is Merino Wool Worth It? Pros and Cons
• How to Stay Warm in a Tent: Over 40 Tips

The post Why Do Rain Jackets Wet Out? appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve been hiking and backpacking for two decades (I even wrote a hiking guidebook) and have tried a lot of different technical outdoor clothing, including lots of Merino wool. I also spent seven years working at the head office of a large Canadian outdoor brand. While I was there, I worked closely with the design and fabric teams and wrote staff training material. So I have a pretty good grasp on outdoor fabric technologies.

In this article, I’ll break down the pros and cons of Merino wool so you can decide if it’s worth it for you. This Merino wool guide includes:

• Is Merino wool worth it? My quick answer
• What is Merino wool? How is it different than regular wool
• Merino wool pros and cons plus some neutral factors where wool is equivalent to other fabrics
• Which Merino wool clothing is worth it? Should you buy Merino socks, shirts, base layers, and more.
• Merino wool tips: My advice for buying merino, taking care of it, and repairing it
• Comparing Merino wool to other fabrics: How does it stack up to polyester, regular wool, alpaca, and more
• Merino wool FAQ: Answers to common questions like is Merino good for summer and does it shrink

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Is Merino Wool Worth it?

My short answer: Most of the time, no.

The longer answer: Merino wool is a fabulous high-performance fabric. But it’s not magic. In many ways, Merino wool is comparable to high-tech polyester fabrics. The only place where Merino clearly outperforms is its ability to resist odors.

Some people really love the feel and performance of Merino. And if that’s you, and you find the expense and lack of durability of Merino don’t deter you, that’s great. If you love, Merino, keep on loving it.

But I think that a lot of people get sucked in by the premium price and slick marketing of Merino wool. They assume that because it is expensive, it must be the best. I’ve talked to lots of people who bought into the hype, then fell out of love with Merino after using it for a few years, mostly due to its lack of durability and high price.

If you are comparing a cheap big box store base layer to Merino wool, of course, Merino wool is going to be better. But if you compare Merino wool to high-end performance synthetic fabrics from innovative outdoor apparel companies, you’ll find that the synthetics provide equal or better performance at a cheaper price and with better durability.

What is Merino Wool?

Merino wool is the wool from a breed called Merino sheep. Although Merino sheep are originally from Spain, today they are found all over the world (and most famously, in Australia and New Zealand).

Merino wool is much softer and finer than regular wool. That means it is more comfortable to wear since it is less scratchy. The individual fibres of regular wool can be up to 40 microns in diameter. But Merino wool is always less than 24 microns. Premium fine Merino wool can go as low as 15 microns in diameter.

Merino wool is most often used for technical outdoor clothing. However, you can also find it in high-end casual sweaters and blankets.

Merino Wool Pros and Cons

Some people talk about Merino wool as if it is a miracle fabric. And it does indeed have lots of positive characteristics. However, there are also some negatives, which for some people (like me) often outweigh the positives.

Here’s my breakdown of the pros and cons of Merino wool. I’ve also included a few “neutral” factors – these are areas where Merino wool provides better performance than non-technical fabrics like cotton but has equivalent performance to technical fabrics like polyester.

Pro: Anti-Microbial

Merino wool is naturally anti-microbial. That means that it doesn’t get as stinky and odor-causing particles won’t build up in it over time like they can in synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon. (Read my guide to getting the smell out of hiking gear for info on how that happens.)

Since Merino wool is less smelly, it’s a great choice for multi-day backpacking or situations where you can’t or don’t want to wash your gear as often. When I used to commute to work by bike, I wore a Merino wool shirt that I washed once or twice a week instead of every day.

But… Merino wool can still get stinky over time, especially if it is blended with nylon or elastane. It’s not magic. It just takes way longer to develop that signature hiker stank than other fabrics.

Pro: Temperature Regulation and Breathability

Merino wool is naturally thermo-regulating. That means that it can help you feel cool when it’s hot out and provide warmth when it’s cold. This sounds crazy, but there’s actually science behind it.

Wool fibres are crimped, which creates little air pockets. In cold weather, these air pockets trap warm air and hold it close to you. When it’s hot out, wool pulls moisture and heat from your body. As the wool dries and releases the moisture, the crimps trap cold air, keeping you cool.

Many people love Merino wool because they can wear the same Merino wool clothing in both summer and winter. The temperature-regulating properties of Merino wool also mean that you are less likely to need to add and remove layers as the temperature changes on a hike.

However, it is worth mentioning that there are lots of innovative premium synthetic fabrics that can compete with Merino on temperature regulation. But there are also lots of crappy synthetics too.

Pro: Warm for its Weight

The natural air pockets that give Merino wool its temperature-regulating properties also mean that it can provide more warmth for its weight than other fabrics. (Although the construction of some synthetic fabrics can mimic the air pocket structure and perform just as well.)

The excellent warmth-to-weight ratio means that you can choose thinner Merino wool garments than their synthetic counterparts.

Neutral: Next to Skin Comfort

You might hear Merino wool described as being comfortable to wear or soft against your skin. That is certainly true, especially when you compare it to traditional wool.

But it’s not any softer or more comfortable than some other technical fabrics like polyester. (Of course this depends a lot on the specific technical fabric. I find Merino wool much more comfortable than the polyester in my Outdoor Research Echo Sun Hoodie. But I also like the feel of my soft Mountain Hardware Crater Lake Sun Hoodie more than the feel of Merino wool. (I reviewed both of these in my guide to the best sun hoodies for hiking.)

Some people prefer the way Merino feels on their skin, but some still find it a tiny bit itchy.

Neutral: Provides Warmth When Wet

Merino wool still provides insulation even when it is wet. By itself, that sounds like a pro, and Merino wool cheerleaders often list “warmth when wet” as one of Merino wool’s strengths. But it’s only a pro if you compare Merino to cotton, since cotton makes you colder when you are wet. Synthetic fabrics also provide warmth when they are wet, so Merino doesn’t have a leg up over other technical outdoor fabrics.

Neutral: Moisture Wicking

Here is another neutral factor that masquerades as a pro. Yes, Merino wool does a good job of wicking moisture away from your skin thanks to the unique air pocket-forming structure of the wool fibres. But many technical synthetic fabrics are comparable when it comes to wicking, so it’s not a true pro. (However, some synthetics achieve high wicking performance via chemical finishes that wash out over time, so it’s not an easy comparison to make.)

Neutral: Ethical and Sustainability Issues

Merino wool is an animal product, so it is not vegan-friendly.

It is also important to know there have been issues around animal cruelty associated with Merino wool production. Some Merino sheep farmers subject their animals to mulesing, a painful practice that removes strips of skin around the anus. Mulesing protects the sheep from flystrike infections. It is done without anesthetic and is considered inhumane and unethical. Most developed countries no longer permit mulesing.

Before you buy a Merino wool garment, check to see if the manufacturer has a statement about the treatment of the sheep they source their wool from. You can also check to see if there are measures in place to prevent overgrazing and the excessive use of pesticides. There are many reputable and ethical Merino wool brands on the market including Smartwool, Icebreaker, Darn Tough, Ibex, Patagonia, Ridge Merino, and Woolx.

However, it’s worth pointing out that there are ethical issue around polyester too. It’s made from petroleum, which isn’t a renewable resource (unlike wool). And given the current climate crisis, fossil fuel extraction is something we should be moving away from rather than increasing

As well, fleecy fabrics release microplastics, which is a big problem when they are washed as it ends up in our waterways and oceans.

If you are concerned about the sustainability of your clothing, buying used base layers is the best choice.

Con: Doesn’t Dry Quickly

Merino wool is often touted as being great at moisture-wicking since it can absorb more moisture than other fabrics. The “moisture-wicking” part of that sentence is a pro. But the “absorb” part is a con because Merino wool really hangs on to moisture. It can take 40% longer for a Merino wool garment to dry compared to a synthetic one.

I sweat a lot (in all temperatures and during all activities). Merino wool just stays wet way too long for me. It takes forever to dry, and in the meantime, it’s heavy and gross.

Con: Durability

Unfortunately, Merino wool has a poor track record when it comes to durability. The fibres of Merino wool are very fragile. That means they are prone to ripping, tearing, and snagging. Even high-quality Merino wool garments are likely to develop holes.

There are a few things you can do to maximize the life of your Merino wool clothing. Garments that use a blend of Merino wool and synthetic fabrics are much stronger and last longer. I have lots of Merino wool socks from Darn Tough and Smartwool that have lasted years since they use a Merino wool/nylon blend.

You also have to be really careful with your Merino wool. Snags on zippers, watch straps, backpack buckles, jewellery, and belts are common ways to get holes. But friction holes are sometimes unavoidable, especially in the armpits and crotch.

Con: Special Washing Required

Merino wool requires special washing and drying. Like all wool, it shrinks if it is heated too much, which means it needs to be washed in cold water and hung to dry.

Due to its poor durability, it also is best to wash Merino wool clothing on the delicate cycle. I also always wash my Merino wool by itself to protect it. I don’t allow zippers, buttons, Velcro, or buckles in the washing machine with my Merino!

While it isn’t required, it is a good idea to use a wool-specific laundry detergent (like Nikwax Wool Wash). Regular detergent can strip the wool of its natural wicking properties and can contribute to pilling. Avoid enzyme cleaners at all costs as they can actually break down the fibres in Merino wool. (More tips in my guide to washing hiking gear.)

Con: Expensive

If you’ve ever shopped for Merino wool gear, you have probably been shocked by how expensive it is. Close to $100 for a t-shirt?? What?! Yup, Merino wool prices are crazy.

While there are billions of sheep in the world, most are raised for their meat or for regular wool. Merino sheep are a specialized breed and there just aren’t that many of them. It costs a lot more to raise a sheep than it does to harvest a plant or make fabric from petroleum. As well, the fine fibres of Merino wool mean that you need more of them to make fabric.

And while Merino wool is a natural fibre, it still needs to be heavily processed before it is turned into clothing. The fibres are extensively cleaned to remove dirt, impurities, and lanolin (a greasy substance that naturally occurs in sheep’s wool.)

Which Merino Wool Clothing is Worth It?

My answer to whether Merino wool is worth it depends on what kind of clothing you’re talking about. For things like socks, I recommend it 1000%. For shirts, base layers, underwear, and mid-layers, the answer is a bit more nuanced.

Are Merino Wool Socks Worth It?

Yes! I swear by Merino wool hiking socks.

Since socks need to be extra durable, Merino wool socks are usually expertly blended with nylon and elastane. This means that you get the anti-microbial and temperature-regulating properties of Merino. But you also get better durability thanks to the nylon. And you get the wicking power of both Merino and nylon – it dries quicker than Merino alone.

I hike exclusively in Merino wool blend socks. My favourites are the Smartwool Hike Light Cushion Crew Sock and the Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock.

Are Merino Hiking Shirts Worth It?

Yes, but only for some people.

Many hikers love wearing Merino wool hiking shirts. They love the temperature regulation that Merino provides. And the anti-microbial properties of Merino make it ideal for backpacking trips when you don’t want to stink day after day.

However, when you wear a Merino wool hiking shirt, the poor durability of Merino wool becomes pretty apparent. And if you sweat a lot when you hike (like me) then you will find yourself soaking wet a lot of the time because Merino wool shirts absorb more water than synthetics and take longer to dry.

I think Merino wool hiking shirts are great for backpacking and for people who don’t sweat too much. They are also great for people who are careful with their gear.

Smartwool’s standard Merino Short Sleeve Tee is a really popular choice for a Merino hiking shirt. My husband has three of them and loves them. He likes that they don’t stink.

I have an Odlo Kinship Performance Wool long sleeve top that I love for cold weather hiking. It’s a wool/polyester/nylon blend that hits the sweat spot of performance for me. (Read my review in my fave gear of 2023 post.)

Are Merino Base Layers Worth It?

Yes, but only for some people.

The main purpose of a base layer (also known as thermals) is to move moisture away from your skin. Base layers also add warmth through insulation. (However, most of your warmth should come from your mid-layer.)

The thermo-regulation of Merino wool base layers is great for stop-and-start activities like skiing where you generate a lot of heat, but then slow down or stop for long periods and get cold.

Merino’s high warmth-to-weight ratio makes it great for base layers since you can get more warmth with less bulk. I usually sleep in Merino wool base layers when backpacking since they are smaller to pack.

However, for those who sweat a lot, Merino isn’t a good choice for active base layers since they absorb more moisture and take longer to dry.

Durability is also a factor with base layers – the repetitive rubbing of base layers against mid and outer layers in your crotch and armpits leads to pilling and holes far faster with Merino wool than with synthetic fabrics.

Merino wool base layers are great for skiing as long as you don’t run too hot and are ok with the durability issues. They also are great for sleeping in. Otherwise, I think synthetic base layers perform just as well so there isn’t any reason to spend more money on Merino wool.

I love my Smartwool Classic Thermal Base Layer Bottoms for sleeping on backpacking trips since they are lightweight, cozy, and come in fun prints. For snowshoeing, I wear Smartwool Intraknit Thermal Base Layers since they combine Merino and polyester for faster drying times.

Is Merino Wool Underwear Worth It?

Not really.

I’ve heard lots of rave reviews about Merino wool underwear. (And I included a few Merino wool pairs in my guide to the best hiking underwear since some hikers swear by them.) People love it for the same reason they love Merino wool hiking shirts – they are great at temperature regulation and they don’t stink.

But if you sweat a lot, Merino wool underwear is a disaster since it holds moisture, which can lead to uncomfortable chafing. Merino wool undies are also notorious for getting tons of holes. They often lose their shape a lot faster than synthetics too.

Lots of Merino wool underwear is heavily blended with nylon and elastane to increase durability and dry quicker. This is especially true of sports bras, which need to fit tightly. Some underwear and sports bras marketed as Merino wool contain less than 30% Merino wool… but still carry a full Merino wool price tag! Shop carefully.

If you love the feel of Merino wool and think the expense of Merino underwear is worth it, that’s great. But I don’t think Merino wool underwear is a great option for most people – if you are buying a $40 pair of undies, they shouldn’t get holes, bag out, and chafe your butt!

The only merino wool underwear I can recommend are the Branwyn Essential, although I find they are better for cold weather or less sweaty trips. But the highest rated Merino wool underwear are the women’s Icebreaker Merino Siren and Men’s Icebreaker Anatomica. If you want a Merino sports bra, I like the Smartwool Intraknit Strappy Bra – but keep in mind that it is only 28% wool and can definitely can get stinky. (Mine is a bit gross.)

Are Merino Wool Mid-Layers Worth It?

No. Synthetics greatly outperform Merino in this category.

Merino performs best when you wear it next to your skin to wick sweat and absorb heat. Merino wool does work as a mid-layer for insulation, but it doesn’t work any better than fleece, synthetic insulation, or down. And you need a much thicker wool mid-layer to get the equivalent warmth that you’d get with fleece, down, or synthetic insulation.

If you like the feel of wool, a blended wool and polyester fleece is a nice option for a casual mid-layer. But it will be heavier than a pure synthetic, dry slower, and be more expensive.

I have an older Smartwool Smartloft Jacket that I got years ago when I was a Smartwool brand amabassador. It has a Merino wool interior that is cozy, especially when layered over a short sleeved shirt. But I don’t find it as versatile to wear as a fleece.

Are Merino Wool Toques/Beanies Worth It?

Yes, if you don’t have sensitive skin.

I love my Smartwool Merino Beanie (called a toque here in Canada) – I’m wearing it in the photo above. It is really warm for the weight, so it doesn’t take up tons of space in my pack. Since I won’t be sweating much when I wear it, I don’t have to worry about it not drying quickly.

However, if you have sensitive skin, you might find that Merino wool itches your forehead a bit. In that case, a grid fleece hat like the Outdoor Research Trail Mix Beanie is a better option. It has the same warmth-to-weight as Merino wool.

Merino Wool Tips

From what to look for when shopping for Merino to how to wash and repair it, here are my top Merino wool tips:

• Choose the right Merino wool weight for your activity: Merino comes in weights from ultra-fine/ultralight light to heavy-weight. Lighter weights are good for warmer weather and more vigorous activity compared to heavier weights. Some brands list the grams per square metre (gsm) weight of the fabric. Look for around 150gsm for lightweight, year-round layers and 250-300gsm for extra warm winter layers.
• Get a close fit: To benefit from Merino wool’s thermoregulating properties, Merino clothing needs to fit close to the skin. It can’t be too baggy.
• Consider Merino wool blends: Merino wool blended with nylon, polyester and/or elastane is more durable, stretchier, and absorbs a bit less water than pure Merino. Some budget brands mix Merino with nylon to bring prices down. But other performance brands like Smartwool, Icebreaker and Odlo, mix Merino wool with other fabrics in innovative ways that boost function and fit. Pay attention to the percentages. You want at least 50% Merino, or else it’s not worth buying. If you prioritize the benefits of Merino but want more durability, look for 80-90% Merino.
• Buy from a brand that specializes in Merino: For the best performance, buy from a Merino wool brand like Smartwool or Icebreaker or an outdoor brand that makes lots of base layers like Patagonia, Odlo, Helly Hansen, and Arc’teryx. They will have the best fit, seam placement, and fabric blends. You can buy cheap Merino base layers from Costco, etc. but in my experience, they are poor quality and don’t last very long.
• Wash Merino carefully. If you baby your Merino wool, it will last. For the longest lifespan, always wash on delicate with wool-specific detergent (like Nikwax Wool Wash) and hang to dry. The care label might say regular wash and tumble dry is ok, but that’s because they don’t want to scare you off buying Merino. Trust me, stick with the delicate cycle and hang dry no matter what.
• Repair your Merino. Holes are inevitable, but that doesn’t mean you have to throw away your gear. Even if you are a terrible sewer, a few minutes with a needle and thread is all it takes to fix a small hole. For big ones, I sew on patches made from a pair of retired Merino base layer bottoms that was beyond repair.

Comparing Merino Wool to Other Fabrics

Most marketing material touts the performance values of merino wool, but doesn’t tell you how Merino stacks up in comparison to other common outdoor fabrics. I pitted Merino wool and against several other outdoor fabrics commonly used for base layers and hiking shirts.

Merino Wool vs Polyester

Merino wool wins over polyester in a few categories, but definitely not all of them. It’s important to note that there are tons of types of polyester fabric on the market. Higher-end tech fabrics with branded names will out-perform cheap unbranded polyester.

Merino wool is naturally anti-microbial, while polyester is prone to getting stinky. You can buy polyester with anti-odor properties, but it’s either a finish that washes out, or very expensive if it’s embedded in the garment.

For a lot of polyester fabrics, whether it is better than Merino or not, really depends on the type of polyester. In general, Merino is equivalent to or better than some (but not all) polyester fabrics when it comes to breathability, temperature regulation, warmth for weight, next-to-skin comfort, warmth when wet, and moisture-wicking.

All polyester will work better than Merino wool when you compare quick drying, durability, price, and washing instructions.

Merino Wool vs. Regular Wool

For hiking and other outdoor sports, Merino wool beats regular wool in pretty much every category except durability and price. It has better temperature regulation, breathability, next-to-skin comfort, and wicking than regular wool. Merino wool and regular wool score about the same when it comes to warmth for weight, warmth when wet, quick drying, and washing instructions.

Merino Wool vs. Polypropylene

Polypropylene is similar to polyester, but a bit less common. It wicks better, dries faster, and costs less than both polyester and Merino wool. It also gets stinky incredibly easily.

Polypropylene was commonly used in base layers in the 1990s but it is less prevalent now. Helly Hansen makes a lot of polypropylene base layers, some of which they blend with Merino wool. Choose polypropylene over wool if wicking and quick drying are your primary concerns and you can live with the stink.

Merino Wool vs. Modal/Tencel/Lyocell/Viscose/Rayon

Modal, Tencel, Lyocell, Viscose, and rayon are all semi-synthetic fabrics made from wood pulp. Some are softer and more eco-friendly than others (which makes them cost more.) They don’t provide any warmth. These fabrics don’t wrinkle and feel really soft (even softer than Merino), but they aren’t as good at wicking or quick-drying compared to Merino wool or synthetics. None of these fabrics are very good for outdoor clothing.

Merino Wool vs. Alpaca

Alpaca wool fabric is made from the wool of alpacas, a relative of the llama that lives in the South American mountains. Currently, most alpaca garments on the market are intended more for casual wear than for hiking or other outdoor activities. As well, most alpaca garments are heavily blended with other fabrics like nylon for durability or Tencel for softness.

Alpaca wool is softer than Merino. It is also a bit more durable, but still very fragile compared to synthetics. Alpaca is a bit warmer than Merino since its structure creates larger air pockets. (Alpacas need to stay warm in the chilly Andes Mountains!) Alpaca also retains a bit less water than Merino (but still doesn’t dry as fast as polyester or polypropylene).

The alpaca market is still growing so there will likely be a lot of options available in the next few years. But for now, most alpaca products are not high-tech enough for hikers.

Merino Wool vs. Cashmere

Cashmere is made from the wool of Kashmir goats that live in Afghanistan, China, India, Iran, and Iraq. While cashmere is warmer and softer than Merino, it doesn’t beat Merino in any other category. Cashmere is less durable, harder to wash, and more expensive. As well, cashmere is typically only used in casual wear, not in technical outdoor clothing.

Merino Wool FAQ

Let me answer some of the most common questions about Merino wool:

Is Merino Wool itchy?

No. Most people do not find Merino wool itchy, especially compared to regular wool. However, some people still find Merino wool a tiny bit itchy compared to other fabrics. Merino wool blends are less itchy than pure Merino wool.

Is Merino Wool Soft?

Yes. Merino wool is very soft, especially compared to regular wool. However, it can feel a tiny bit rougher than super soft fabrics like Modal or even some types of polyester.

Is Merino Wool Warm?

Yes. Merino wool provides great warmth for its weight compared to other fabrics. However, it is also naturally temperature regulating, which makes it great in a range of temperatures.

Is Merino Wool Good for Winter?

Yes. Merino wool base layers can provide lots of warmth, especially mid- and heavy-weight Merino (200-300gsm). However, you will still need insulating mid-layers on top of your Merino.

Is Merino Wool Good For Summer?

Yes. Merino wool is great for temperature regulation so lightweight Merino wool pieces (150gsm) work well in the summer. However, keep in mind that Merino wool doesn’t dry as quickly as synthetics, so if you sweat a lot, you might not like Merino wool for summer use.

Is Merino Wool Washable?

Yes. But it has special washing instructions. To make your Merino wool last, it is best to wash it in cold water on the delicate cycle, use wool-specific detergent, and hang it to dry. The care label on some Merino wool clothing says you can wash it on the regular cycle and tumble dry. But I don’t recommend it unless the Merino is blended with another fabric (for example Merino wool blend hiking socks).

Does Merino Wool Shrink?

Yes. Like most wool, if you wash it in hot water or put it in the dryer, it will shrink at least a little bit. But if you wash it in cold water and hang to dry, it won’t shrink.

Is Merino Wool Expensive?

Yes, compared to other fabrics, Merino wool is quite expensive. That is because Merino wool is expensive to produce – raising and shearing sheep is more expensive than growing cotton or processing petroleum.

So that’s my big explanation of why I think Merino wool isn’t always worth it. I’m sure some of you will disagree, and that’s ok. I’ll be the first one to say that Merino wool is an awesome fabric. It’s just not always the best one to choose for every application.

Do you have more Merino wool questions? Ask them in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• How to Get the Smell Out of Hiking Clothes
• Why Do Rain Jackets Wet Out?
• My Favourite Hiking Gear – 2023 Edition
• Best Hiking Underwear For Women and Men
• 20+ Ways to Reduce Your Backpack Weight

The post Is Merino Wool Worth It? Pros and Cons appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Every year, I put together a list of the best gear I tried. These are the things that I reached for most often, that were usually in my backpack, and which were on high rotation in my washing machine so I could wear them again. So here are my favourite pieces of gear from 2023.

Hey there: I bought most of the gear in this post with my own money, but some of the products in this post were gifts from brands. I also received lots of other gear that didn’t make the cut so you can be sure that I only share info about products that I really use and love. As well, some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Mountain Hardwear Dynama Pants

I have a love/hate relationship with hiking pants. Over the last few years, it had trended more towards hate and I did a lot of trips in hiking leggings. But this year I found a pair of hiking pants that I loved – the Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Pants.

My biggest gripes with hiking pants are that they are usually too hot and they fit poorly. The Dynama Pants solved both of these problems for me.

They are made from a thin and stretchy nylon that breathes well and wicks sweat. So far, the durability on these has been great – I’ve tested them on lots of backpacking trips and on some scrambly hikes with sharp rocks and a bit of butt-scooching. No rips yet!

Mountain Hardwear also nailed on the fit on these: They have a stretchy waist that is comfortable under my backpack hip belt but also doesn’t feel like it’s going to fall down. The Dynama/2 Pants also fit me well in the butt and thighs, which can be a challenge for some brands.

I initially got the Ankle length in the Dynama/2 pants, which are a bit cropped. It’s a flattering silhouette and a bit better for warm weather. But I realized that the open ankles left me exposed to bugs, especially in camp in the evenings, so I picked up the full-length version too.

My only nitpick: The hand pockets fit my phone, but they aren’t particularly secure due to their shape.

These pants are easily my favourite gear piece of 2023.

Specs: Made of 94% nylon, 6% elastane with a DWR finish and a UPF 50 sun protection rating

Check prices: Mountain Hardwear, Altitude Sports, REI, Amazon

Psst! These pants are on my list of the best women’s hiking pants.

Black Diamond Pursuit 15 Backpack

If a hiking backpack and a running vest had a baby, you would get the Black Diamond Pursuit 15 Backpack. I’ve been wearing this pack on all my high-intensity hikes this year, especially on my home trails in Squamish. It’s been up the Stawamus Chief with me a ton of times!

The harness fits like a running vest and wraps around my body so it doesn’t move around as I hike. I’m a bigger woman, so sometimes packs aren’t that comfortable to wear, but I’ve had no issues with this one.

My favourite feature is that it has tons of pockets that I can access without taking the pack off: There are lots of little pockets on the shoulder straps for snacks, lip balm, and other little things. The side pockets are big enough to fit my phone and easy to reach from the front.

It also has a quick-access external pocket for my hydration bladder at the back, which makes it easier to fill up on the trail (using my Katadyn BeFree Filter, which is also on this list!)

At 15L, it’s tight to fit everything I need into it for a long day out where I need lots of layers and food, but I’ve made it work. The stretch pocket on the outside holds a lot! This year, the BD Pursuit 15 has been my most-used day pack.

Specs: 15L capacity, available in men’s and women’s fits and S, M, and L sizes for different torso sizes. Weight: 686g

Check prices: Black Diamond, Altitude Sports, REI, Amazon

Katadyn BeFree Water Filtration System 1L

I’ve been using a Platypus GravityWorks water filter for backpacking trips for a long time now. For day hikes I typically carried all the water I would need or brought purification drops. And sometimes I did bring the GravityWorks on day hikes if I was with a group. But all of those options seemed either time-consuming or heavy (or both).

This year I picked up a Katadyn BeFree Water Filtration System and I don’t know why I didn’t do it sooner. This thing is crazy light and easy to use – you just squeeze it. After using it extensively for a full summer, the flow rate through the filter is still pretty fast. I’m impressed. I also love that I can carry an extra litre of dirty water inside the filter bottle, so it ups my total water-carrying capacity for dry stretches.

So far I’m mostly using the BeFree on hikes, and solo backpacking trips. For group backpacking trips, the GravityWorks is still a bit more efficient. But the BeFree is tiny and light enough to carry as a backup filter for groups so I’ve done that too.

Specs: 1L soft flask with hollow fibre filter insert that removes bacteria, cysts, and sediment. Weight: 63g

Check prices: MEC, REI, Amazon

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Goodr OG Sunglasses

I’m really light sensitive so I wear sunglasses in all kinds of weather. Some people in my life affectionately, (I think?) call me a mole person. Since my sunglasses get used so much, I’m always on the lookout for inexpensive sunglasses that are polarized and good for hiking, but look cute enough for everyday.

This year, I picked up a pair of Goodr OG sunglasses and instantly fell in love. They are designed as affordable running sunglasses so they have a grip-coating to stay put when I sweat – no more sliding down my nose.

All of their sunglasses come with polarized lenses and despite tons of abuse, so far they haven’t scratched up too badly.

They classic Wayfarer frame shape doesn’t look too sporty when I’m off the trail. They come in lots of fun (and tame) colours and styles too (and most of them have ridiculous names). And, at about $40, they are super affordable – I now own three pairs!

Specs: Polymer frames have a non-slip coating. Lenses are polarized with an anti-scratch coating.

Check prices: MEC, REI, Amazon

Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoody

My favourite piece of hiking gear in 2022 was my Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Sun hoody, so I was shocked to find another sun hoody I liked just as much this year – the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoody.

The Capilene Cool Daily isn’t actually designed specifically as a sun hoody (they test out at about 34 UPF instead of the 50+ UPF that a sun hoody should have). But after wearing mine a ton this summer, I think it’s a great sun hoody option.

Compared to my Crater Lake sun hoody, the Capilene Cool Daily Hoody fabric is a bit slicker and doesn’t feel as nice against the skin. But the big advantage of the Capilene Cool fabric is that it seemed a bit less absorbent so it dries faster than the Crater Lake fabric.

And I think that the anti-odor treatment in the Capilene Cool is holding up a bit better than the Crater Lake. But that might not be a fair assessment as I really wore the Crater Lake a ton last year on book research trips so the anti-odor treatment got more of a work-out.

I still wear my Crater Lake Hoody a lot, but on multi-day backpacking trips where I’m worried about my shirt drying overnight, I find myself bringing the Capilene Cool since I think it dries out a little faster.

Specs: Made of recycled polyester with wicking treatment and anti-microbial treatments. Weight: 147g

Check prices: Patagonia, MEC, REI

For an in-depth review, read my guide to the best sun hoodies for hiking.

MEC Zephyr 65L Backpack

I’ve been using a Gregory Amber 65L backpack for a few years now, and while it’s still a great pack, I wanted to try something new. Enter the Women’s MEC Zephyr 65L Backpack. For a budget-priced backpack, I was really surprised at how much I liked this pack!

It uses a suspended mesh back panel that keeps your back from getting sweaty and is comfortable to carry even with five days of gear. The big pre-curved hip belt was like wearing a hug. It comes in men’s and women’s versions and two different torso sizes for a better fit.

The Zephyr also has big mesh side and back pockets, which I love for storing on-the-go gear. It’s been a while since I a had pack with bottom and side zippers, and I thought I didn’t need them. But with this pack, I found myself using these zippers a lot to make packing and unpacking my bag easier.

Honestly, this pack has pretty much all the fit and features of the Osprey Aura (women’s) or Osprey Atmos (men’s), except it costs $170 less!!! The only key feature it’s missing is an included rain cover, but you can just buy one separately for about $35.

Specs: 65L capacity with a trampoline-style mesh vented back panel. Weight: 1.75 kg

Check prices: MEC

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Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody

I feel the cold easily. On summer backpacking trips, I bring a fleece or a lightweight puffy jacket to wear at camp. But in the high mountains or in fall weather, that doesn’t cut it. This year I got an Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody and it’s been great.

This is a super-premium jacket: It uses high-end 850 fill-power European goose down that is Responsible Down Standard certified and gossamer thin 15 denier nylon and polyester fabrics with a DWR finish. The down placement is strategically mapped to give you more warmth where you need it most and to swap out for synthetic insulation in places where moisture might build up (like your pits!)

The premium materials in the Cerium make it incredibly warm for its weight. (It weighs just 290g!) It was a life-saver on my September trip to Mount Assiniboine where we had snow, slush, and freezing temps every day.

And it’s so light that I have used it to extend the temperature rating of my summer sleeping bag instead of bringing my warmer three-season bag.

Specs: Made of lightweight 15D fabric with a DWR finish and 850 fill power goose down. Weight: 290g

Check prices: Arc’teryx, MEC, REI

Ciele Athletics GOCap

If you’ve run into me on the trails in the last year, there’s almost a 100% chance that I’m wearing a Ciele Athletics GOCap. I got one as a Christmas gift last year and loved it so much that I bought another one this summer to wear when the first one is in the wash.

I’ve tried other running and hiking hats, and nothing is as good as the Ciele (although the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Trail Cap is close).

I always hike in a baseball-style cap for a few reasons: They shade my face from the sun. I sweat a lot, so the wicking interior brim keeps most of the sweat from running into my eyes. The brim of the hat keeps the hood of a rain jacket or sun hoody from flopping into my eyes.

Ciele is a Montreal-based company that started with just one product – the GOCap. These days they make other hats and running clothing, but their original hat is perfection for both running and hiking.

I love the quick-drying fabric because it breathes well and doesn’t absorb sweat. It also provides UPF 40+ sun protection. The brim is soft enough to pack easily, but not so floppy that it gets deformed in your pack or blown around by the wind. The 5-panel style fits my head well. Plus they come in a million different colour combos.

The only downside? For a hat these are a bit pricey.

Specs: Made of lightweight polyester mesh with UPF 40+ sun protection. Weight: 62g.

Check prices: MEC, REI

Mountain Hardwear Minimizer GORE-TEX Paclite Plus Jacket

For summer hiking and backpacking, finding a waterproof jacket that keeps me dry, fits me, and is light enough to bring on all kinds of adventures is a tough ask. I have a bunch of durable rain jackets in my closet, but they all feel pretty heavy for summer use.

This year I tried the Mountain Hardwear Minimizer GORE-TEX Paclite Plus jacket. It’s shockingly thin and lightweight. When packed into its own pocket, it’s about the size of a grapefruit.

I did a ten-day bike trip in rural France in April and this was the only jacket I brought. It was a bit of a gamble, but it paid off – despite two days of riding in a downpour, it held up fine. After that, I brought it on backpacking trips all summer. It proved itself again on a rainy and slushy five-day September trip to Mount Assiniboine. The GORE-TEX Paclite Plus definitely kept me dry and breathed fairly well.

The only downside to this jacket is that it doesn’t have pit zips, so it doesn’t vent as well as some of my other jackets. But it does have mesh-backed chest and hand pockets which you can leave open to increase breathability.

Specs: Made of ultralight 13-denier waterproof breathable 2-layer GORE-TEX Paclite Plus fabric. Weight: 225g.

Check prices: Mountain Hardwear, Altitude Sports, Amazon

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Stanley Classic Legendary Camp Mug

I got the Stanley Classic Legendary Camp mug for car camping (along with the Stanley Adventure Camp Pro Cookset, which is also great), but I’ve been drinking out of it pretty much every day in my home office too. (It’s too heavy for backpacking – I use the Snow Peak Double-Wall Titanium Mug for that.)

The double-wall stainless steel construction keeps my tea hot for nearly an hour. The handle and the lip at the top are single-wall so they don’t heat up. (No burnt lips!) And in general, the mug is just nice to hold. The press-fit plastic lid is pretty standard, but it does the job. It holds 12 oz (350 ml) which is just the right size.

It’s hard to explain why I love this mug so much – it’s just one of those simple things that does exactly what it’s supposed to do so well that you don’t even think about it. I think part of its charm is that it has great camp vibes, which can be a big moral boost when you’re stuck at home.

Specs: Made of 18/8 stainless steel with a double-wall vacuum insulated design. Dishwasher safe. Holds 12 oz/350 ml. Weight: 318g (but who cares!)

Check prices: Stanley, Altitude Sports, Amazon

Odlo Kinship Performance Wool Base Layers

I love the idea of merino wool especially since it doesn’t stink, but in practice, it often doesn’t work that well for me. I find even the softest merino wool just a tad itchy. And there’s the issue of it wicking sweat (and staying wet) a little longer than polyester and weighing a bit more too. (For more on this topic, read my post – Is Merino Wool Worth it?)

This year I tried Odlo’s Kinship Performance Wool base layers. (Odlo is a Norwegian base layer and outdoor apparel company.) They blended merino wool (52%), with polyester (31%), nylon (15%), and a little bit of elastane for stretch (2%).

So far, it seems like the best of both worlds for me. It doesn’t itch. It’s really stretchy. And despite feeling thin, it’s really warm. It also seems to wick sweat better and dry faster than any other merino wool base layers I’ve tried.

I also really love that Odlo provides a recommended temperature rating for their base layers. They say that the Kinship Performance wool series is good for -10C to 15C if you’re standing still, -15C to 5C if you’re walking, and -20 to 0C if you’re running. In my experience, that seems pretty accurate even though I run really hot when I’m moving and really cold when I’m stopped.

Specs: 52% Virgin Wool (Merino), 31% Polyester, 15% Polyamide, 2% Elastane

Check prices: Odlo, Valhalla Pure Outfitters, Amazon

Outdoor Vitals Vario Jacket

It can be tough to figure out what to wear in the winter when you’re working up a sweat but it’s cold out. That’s where breathable synthetic insulated jackets come in. Last winter I got the Outdoor Vitals Vario jacket and it really excels in this category.

Outdoor Vitals is a small ultralight gear company from Utah and they put a lot of thought into their gear design. If you’re a gear tech geek like me, you’ll want to pore through the specs on their website since they are using some unusual and interesting fabrics and insulation from Toray. And everything is so lightweight!

But for the layperson, I’ll explain it in plain language. Basically, it uses body-mapped super breathable synthetic insulation with more insulation in areas where you need it and less in places where you get hot. Both the insulation and the fabric have stretch, so it moves with you. And the fabric is soft, not shiny and plasticky, so it doesn’t feel sticky if you do sweat.

It also has a feature I’ve never seen on another insulated jacket – pit vents! It has a mesh panel in the underarms to dump excess heat.

Specs: Made with 20-denier ripstop nylon that is breathable, stretchy, and water resistant. Insulation is stretchy synthetic and is body-mapped. Weight: 269g.

Check prices: Outdoor Vitals

It was hard to narrow down my list of favourites, but I managed! What were your favourite pieces of hiking gear in 2023? Share them in the comments!

READ NEXT:

• My Favourite Hiking Gear of 2025
• My Favourite Hiking Gear of 2024
• My Favorite Hiking Gear – 2022 Edition
• 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear
• Is Merino Wool Worth It? Pros and Cons
• 12 Best Women’s Hiking Pants (Picks for Every Body Type)
• 19 Best Hiking Leggings
• Which Women’s Specific Hiking Gear is Actually Worth Buying?

The post My Favourite Hiking Gear – 2023 Edition appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

The advice in this guide covers hiking clothing like base layers (long underwear) shirts, pants, fleece jackets, underwear, sports bras, and socks. Rain jackets and down jackets need to be washed differently.

I’ve been hiking and backpacking for two decades, mostly in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia. (I even wrote a book about it.)

It isn’t that hot here, but it’s pretty humid, which means my hiking clothes are often sweaty and don’t get a chance to dry out until I get home. And all that moisture makes my clothing stink!

I also have hyperhidrosis, a medical condition that makes me sweat more than the average person. Even if I’m not working hard, my shirt, sports bra, underwear, and waistband of my pants are sweaty.

Since I hike a lot, most of my hiking clothes develop a gross funky smell over time. I pull them out of the drawer and they smell fine, but after an hour, you can smell the stink again. So I know a thing or two about getting the smell out of hiking clothes.

In this guide I’ll cover:

• Why do hiking clothes smell bad?
• How to prevent your hiking clothes from smelling bad
• How to get the smell out of hiking clothes
• Stinky hiking clothing myths

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Why Do Hiking Clothes Stink?

When you hike, you sweat. Sweat itself doesn’t have any odor. But the bacteria and microbes on your skin loves moist environments. So when you sweat, that bacteria thrives, stinking up your armpits, crotch, feet, and anywhere else you sweat a lot.

Most hiking clothing wicks sweat and dries quickly, but unfortunately the bacteria don’t evaporate with the sweat – they stay in your clothes.. And hikers often wear their clothing on multi-day backpacking trips, building up sweat and bacteria for days, which translates into stinky hiking clothing.

Sometimes, that bacteria sticks around even after washing, which makes hiking clothing hold its smell and stink even when it’s “clean”. But you don’t have to get rid of it. Read on to find out how to get the smell out of your hiking clothes.

How to Prevent Your Hiking Clothes From Smelling Bad

Understand Which Fabrics Get Stinkier Than Others

Hiking clothing is typically made of synthetic materials like nylon or polyester. Another option is merino wool. Some fabrics hold on to smell more than others.

In general, wool is naturally anti-microbial, so it is much less likely to get stinky. On the other hand, synthetic fabrics tend to breed more microbes, leading to stink.

Synthetics tend to get get smelly because they don’t have the same anti-microbial properties. Nylon and polyester get stinky at about the same rate.

Curious if Merino wool is worth it? Read my Merino wool explainer and decide for yourself.

Choose Odor-Resistant Finishes and Fabrics

Cheap hiking clothes are just made with regular polyester and nylon. I find that my workout shirts and sports bras from Old Navy or Champion hold smells way more than my gear from Patagonia or Outdoor Research.

That’s because high-end hiking clothing often has an anti-microbial odor-resistant finish or uses an odor-resistant fabric.

Check labels and product information for brand name technologies such as Polygiene, ActiveFresh, Silverscent, or HeiQ. Or it might just be called “anti-odor” or “anti-microbial”.

There are two forms of this technology: an odor-resistant finish or an odor-resistant fabric. They both use silver-based additives that stop bacteria from reproducing.

The finishes are applied to fabric, which means that over time they will wash out. Odor-resistant fabrics have silver incorporated right into the fabric, so it will last for the lifetime of your garment.

Just a heads up: Some silver-based anti-odor treatments (mostly the no-name ones) have negative environmental impacts. If you are concerned, do some research and see if the benefits outweigh the impacts for you.

Wash ASAP

Don’t let bacteria and body oils soak into your hiking clothes – wash them as soon as possible. That way the odors won’t have time to develop.

Air It Out

If you can’t wash your hiking clothes right away, don’t leave them wet in your laundry hamper. That just provides a great breeding ground for bacteria and leads to more bad smells.

Hang them up to air out and dry. Inside out is best since there are more bacteria and oil on the inside of your clothing. On backpacking trips, I hang my hiking shirt, sports bra, and underwear up on a tree branch to dry out.

Soak It

If you are at home, soaking is an even better option than airing it out. Fill a bucket with cold water and add one cup of baking soda. Instead of baking soda, you can also add a little bit of detergent, vinegar, or some lemon juice.

Soaking your hiking clothes for as little as 30 minutes can make a big difference. But you can leave them as long as you need (within reason). When it’s time to do laundry, squeeze the water out, then pop your clothes in the washing machine as usual.

Clean Your Washing Machine

Until it started to smell, I didn’t know you were supposed clean your washing machine! I figured since it regularly has soap and hot water in it, it had to be clean.

It turns out oil, dirt, and residue can build up inside washing machines, which causes mold to grow, and that can get into your clothing. Front loaders need cleaning more often than to loaders.

Check your washing machine’s manual for cleaning instructions. Some have a cleaning setting. In general, you can run your washing machine on the hottest water setting and add a little bit of bleach or a few cups of vinegar or baking soda. But don’t ever combine them as that can be dangerous!

You can also use a dilute bleach or vinegar solution to clean the inside of the drum as well as the door seal and detergent drawer on front load washing machines.

I also like to use Affresh washing machine cleaning tablets every few months as they foam up to break down residue that can stuck in the crevices of my-front loading machine. It’s also much less work than hand-scrubbing.

How to Get the Smell Out of Hiking Clothes

Turn Inside Out When Washing

Your sweat, oil, and bacteria build up on the inside of your hiking clothes. So if you turn them inside out when you wash them, it’s easier for the detergent to get at the stinkiest parts of your clothes.

Use an Odor-Fighting Detergent

There are lots of odor-fighting detergents on the market designed to get sweat smells out of clothing.

But not all detergents are created equal. Lots of hiking clothing has a DWR (durable water repellency) or a finish designed to enhance wicking. Regular detergents can destroy these finishes.

Read the label on the detergent carefully to see what kinds of fabrics and clothing items it is recommended for. Some detergents contain bleach, which can damage synthetic fabrics and wool. And some contain enzymes, which are great for fighting odor, but will destroy wool.

For hiking clothing, look for detergents marketed as sports detergents.

I’ve used a few different types of odor-fighting detergents over the years. Right now my favourites are Nikwax Basewash and Sports Suds. Sport Suds is Canadian and a bit less expensive, but I think Nikwax works a little bit better.

Use the Right Detergent For the Fabric

Sports detergents or regular laundry detergent works well on synthetics like nylon and polyester.

Merino wool is naturally anti-microbial and can go longer between washings. But it does need to be washed eventually! Merino wool lasts the longest if you use special detergent.

The enzymes in some detergents can eat at the natural fibres of wool hiking clothing, breaking them down. I use Nikwax Wool Wash since it is designed to clean wool. Nikwax also claims that it helps improve wicking and accelerate drying, which leads to less microbe build-up.

Try An Enzyme Cleaner

Heavy-duty enzyme cleaners like Nature’s Miracle (for pet accidents) or Revivex Odor Eliminator (previous called MiraZyme and sold as a wetsuit cleaner) can help get the smell out of your hiking clothes. Both are fairly concentrated and expensive, so I don’t use them often.

I also find that sports detergents work fine on most smells – I don’t have to resort to using an enzyme cleaner.

And beware – don’t use these on wool. The enzymes break it down.

Use Hot Water

Hot water kills bacteria. Check the labels on your hiking clothing and wash them in the hottest water they can withstand.

But be careful with merino wool – hot water will shrink it! Always wash wool garments in cold water.

Add Baking Soda or Vinegar to Your Washing Machine

Baking soda and white vinegar are both natural ways to fight odors. You can add one cup of either to your washing machine each time you do a load of stinky hiking clothes. But don’t add both at once – that will create a science fair-style foamy eruption.

Skip the Dryer

The high heat of the dryer binds bacteria and body oils to fabric, which locks in the sink. Hang your hiking clothing to dry instead.

If possible, hang it in the direct sun where UV rays can further break down microbes and kill odor. However, drying your hiking clothes in the sun will fade their colors.

A bonus of air drying is that it will prolong the life of your hiking clothes. Most hiking clothing is made of technical fabrics with stretch properties. Air drying helps them keep their shape and won’t break down the elastic fibres they need to stay stretchy.

Don’t Use Fabric Softener

Fabric softeners make your clothing feel soft by coating them with a thin layer of waxy chemicals. That coating traps microbes, which makes your clothes stink.

It also impedes wicking and water repellency finishes as well as overall breathability – and those features are why you bought hiking clothing in the first place!

When in Doubt, Re-Wash

Give your clothing a sniff when once you have washed and dried it. Do they still smell? If so, try washing them again, perhaps with a specialty anti-odor detergent or with some added baking soda or vinegar in the washing machine.

I also find that sometimes clothing smells fine after it’s washed, but within an hour of putting it on, it smells again. In that case, I make sure to run it through an extra special cleaning process: a pre-soak, then a wash with anti-odor detergent, then line drying in the sun.

Stinky Hiking Clothing Myths

Freezing Your Clothing Will Get the Stink Out

You might have seen recommendations online to put your stinky clothing (especially jeans) in the freezer instead of washing them.

According to microbiologists, the microbes that live on your clothing are happiest living at human body temperature. However, many of them are adapted to survive low temperatures. So once your clothing warms up, the microbes wake back up and go back to being stinky.

That means that putting your clothing in the freezer won’t get the smell out.

Adding More Detergent Will Get Your Clothes Cleaner

Your instinct might be to douse your stinky hiking clothes in detergent. But if excess detergent isn’t completely rinsed out of your clothes, it provides a breeding ground for fungus and mildew. And that will just make your clothing smell even more!

Febreze Gets the Smell Out of Your Clothes

Febreze doesn’t get the smell out of clothes – it just stops them from smelling bad. I can hear you asking: “Isn’t that the same thing?” Nope!

It just hides the smell – it doesn’t get it out. Febreze uses chemical compounds called cyclodextrins made of sugar molecules to trap odor-causing molecules. The molecules are still there – but they are surrounded by cyclodextrins so they don’t smell bad.

If you spray Febreze on your shirt, it will stop smelling bad. But when you wash your shirt, you’ll wash out the Febreze. And if the odor molecules don’t get washed out as well, your hiking shirt will still smell terrible.

Febreze (especially unscented Febreze) is great for hard-to-wash hiking gear like sleeping bags or hiking boots, but it won’t permanently get the smell out of your hiking clothes.

So that’s everything you need to know about getting the smell out of your hiking clothes. Do you have tips to share or questions about getting your gear back to its pre-stink days? Leave them in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• Is Merino Wool Worth It? Pros and Cons
• Why Do Rain Jackets Wet Out?
• Best Hiking Underwear For Women and Men
• 12 Best Women’s Hiking Pants (Picks for Every Body Type)
• 19 Best Hiking Leggings of 2023
• How to Camp and Hike on Your Period
• Women’s Plus Size Hiking Clothes: The Best Brands and Where to Find Them
• Backpacking Checklist: Gear You Need To Go Backpacking

The post How to Get the Smell Out of Hiking Clothes appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Here are my favourite pieces of gear from 2022. The gear on this list are things that impressed me, surprised me, and made me want to use them over and over.

Hey there: Some of the products in this post were gifts from brands. I also received lots of other gear that didn’t make the cut so you can be sure that I only share info about products that I really use and love. As well, some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Long Sleeve Hoody

Before this summer, I usually hiked in a wicking t-shirt, sometimes layering on a button-up for extra sun protection. But this year I discovered the magic of long-sleeved sun hoodies. I had heard thru-hikers rave about them for years but hadn’t tried them.

Once I got this Mountain Hardwear sun hoody, I didn’t want to wear anything else. In fact, I often wore it dirty, even when I had other clean shirts to choose from.

It’s made of really lightweight and breathable fabric that didn’t make me feel like I was overheating. The fabric is super-soft and for the first time in my life, I didn’t mind wearing long sleeves.

The fabric is pretty thin, but it has held up to a bit of light bushwhacking and a pretty epic end-over-end fall down a hill that left me with lots of scabs but didn’t rip my shirt!

I also loved not having to worry as much about reapplying sunscreen since my arms were always covered. I often pulled the hood up over my baseball cap for added neck protection.

The only feature I don’t love is the draw cord at the hem. I think the intention is to give it an adjustable fit or some style. But I just found that the ends of the cord kept getting caught in the fly of my shorts. And one time I even accidentally peed on it! It’s sewn in, so I haven’t gotten around to ripping it out yet, but I will.

Specs: Made of 88% polyester/12% elastane jersey knit. UPF 50 sun protection. Weight: 160g.

Check prices: Altitude Sports, Amazon, REI, Mountain Hardwear, Mountain Hardwear Canada

For an in-depth review, read my guide to the best sun hoodies for hiking.

Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow

For a long time, I used a balled-up fleece or puffy jacket as a pillow. A few years ago, I transitioned to a lightweight inflatable pillow, which is much more comfortable.

This summer my husband upgraded his sleep system and purchased a Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow. I borrowed it for one trip, and now I’m hooked and want my own.

The Aeros pillow is inflatable so it folds down really small. But it also has a down-filled top layer that is super comfy to sleep on.

My old inflatable pillow was a bit slippery and I felt like I was chasing it around the tent all night as it slipped out from under my head. The Aeros has a slightly fuzzy base fabric that stays in place really well. (If you use it with a Sea to Summit pad, the fuzzy fabric actually sticks to a patch on the pad. But I don’t have one so I can’t speak to how well that works.)

Specs: Made of lightweight 10-denier and 20-denier nylon with a urethane bladder and a Responsible Down Standard topper. Weight: 71g. Dimensions: 16.5 x 11 x 4.7″ (size large).

Check prices: Altitude Sports, Amazon, Sea to Summit

Kuhl Prism Hoody

This definitely isn’t the most technical fleece in my closet (I own about 10 fleeces!), but it is the one I reach for most often. I love it for casual hikes, wearing in camp, or around the house. I wear it a few days a week… at least. Actually, I’m wearing it right now as I type this post.

The Prism Hoody has a casual colour-blocked style with a water-resistant, reinforced overlay on the shoulders. I like the zippered hand pockets and the slightly dropped hem in the back.

But the real reason I can’t take this hoody off is the fabric. It is made from the softest, coziest fleece that provides lots of warmth but also is breathable enough that I don’t overheat. The fabric is so soft that I’ve had more than one friend feel it while hugging me, then stop to “pet” the fleece!

Specs: Made of 100% polyester premium Italian fleece (200gsm) with 89% polyester/11% spandex shoulder overlays.

Check prices: Kuhl, REI

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Exped Ultra 5R Sleeping Pad

I recently upgraded to the Exped Ultra 5R sleeping pad. For many years, I used the Therm-a-rest NeoAir XTherm. While I loved how much insulation it provided, I didn’t love how the horizontal baffles felt against my aging back. The metallic film inside was a bit noisy. And the mummy shape didn’t let me sprawl.

While Exped Ultra isn’t quite as insulating and is a tad heavier, I found myself packing it on every trip since it was sooo much more comfortable to sleep on thanks to the rectangular shape and vertical baffles.

It uses lightweight synthetic insulation welded to the top and bottom of the mat, so it doesn’t crinkle like metallic films. The big, flat valve made it easy to inflate and deflate. I also like the Exped Schnozzle pump bag, which is huge and makes inflating the pad super fast.

Specs: Made of durable 20-denier polyester with 160gsm synthetic insulation. Weight: 584g. Dimensions: 72 x 20.5 x 3″ (size medium rectangular).

Check prices: Altitude Sports, REI, Exped

READ NEXT: How to Stay Warm in a Tent: Over 40 Tips

Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Shorts

As a plus-sized person, I often have a hard time finding hiking shorts that work for my body. The Guide Pro shorts pleasantly surprised me. They have a traditional, non-elastic waist, but they are still cut to fit my curves. And they come in sizes 0-24 with both petite and tall options.

I often find that hiking shorts are cut too short for me, so they end up riding up into my crotch. These shorts have a 7″ inseam that hits me in the middle of my quad, but somehow don’t ride up. Usually, I wear a much longer inseam, but these have been great.

The fabric is fairly durable without feeling heavy and has a bit of stretch. The DWR finish seems to be holding up well to wick sweat.

One of my favourite features is the big zippered side pockets. They are large enough to fit my phone, which somehow is still a rarity amongst most hiking short designs!

Specs: 94% nylon/6% spandex fabric with DWR finish. UPF 50+ sun protection.

Check prices: Eddie Bauer, Eddie Bauer Canada, Amazon

READ NEXT: Women’s Plus Size Hiking Clothes: The Best Brands and Where to Find Them

3-in-1 USB Charging Cable

On backpacking trips, I typically have multiple devices I might need to charge: my iPhone (which functions as my camera and GPS), my Garmin inReach, my headlamp, my Garmin Instinct Solar watch, and my Kindle eReader. For years I was fighting with a rats’ nest of cables.

This summer I bought a cheap 3-in-1 cable from Amazon, along with a Garmin smartwatch adapter. Now my charging cable set-up is super compact. It also weighs only 25g. I have no idea why I didn’t do this sooner!

Specs: USB to 1) USB C, 2) Micro USB, and 3) Apple Lightning. Charges only – no data. I added a Garmin watch to USB C adapter.

Check prices: Amazon

Mountain Hardwear Kor AirShell Hoody

I’ve had a few breathable wind jackets over the years. I like to wear them over a t-shirt or tank top when the wind picks up but it’s too warm for a fleece or full-on rain jacket. In general, they are breathable and super compact, stowing down to the size of my fist.

I recently got the Mountain Hardwear Kor AirShell Hoody and it’s definitely the best wind shell I have used. Unlike some of the others, the fit really works well for my body – it’s not too tight through the hips and shoulders.

As well, it has zippered hand pockets – the other wind shells that I have only have a zippered chest pocket, which is a strategy to reduce weight. I didn’t realize how much I missed the hand pockets until I had them back – I love having a place to stash my phone, lip balm, and other small gear. I don’t care that they add a few grams to the weight of the jacket.

Specs: Made of lightweight, breathable Pertex Quantum Air 20-denier stretch ripstop nylon. Weight: 132g.

Check prices: Altitude Sports, Amazon, Mountain Hardwear, Mountain Hardwear Canada

ThermoWorks ThermoDrop Zipper-Pull Thermometer

One of the keys to my backpacking gear systems is a thermometer. I like to know how cold it is so I can determine how well my gear worked at that temperature.

I used to use cheap traditional mercury thermometers, but with those, I had no way of knowing the coldest temperature at night unless I woke up and looked at it. They are also hard to read sometimes.

This summer I upgraded to the ThermoDrop. It’s made by ThermoWorks, a company that specializes in instant-read digital thermometers for cooking. (They make the super popular Thermapen.) That means that it is super-accurate.

I also love that it has a memory feature – it can display the min and max temperature since the last time it was turned on. It’s not as high-tech as some of the weather data logging devices you can get, but it’s a fraction of the price!

Specs: ranges from -25 to 50C (-13 to 122F). Backlight. Water resistant (IP67). Weight: 14g. Dimensions: 49 x 33 x 12.5 mm.

Check prices: ThermoWorks

Ibex Lizzi Tights

It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of hiking leggings and tights. I got a pair of Ibex Lizzi Tights made with merino wool this year and I love them for colder weather.

I often find that merino wool gear isn’t very durable or that I get sweaty in it, and then it takes a long time to dry compared to synthetics. (I’ve got a whole article with my thoughts on whether Merino wool is worth it.) The Lizzi tights defied my expectations.

They are made with a really durable wool, nylon, and elastane blend that has held up to lots of hikes. It also has held its shape quite well, instead of becoming saggy like some merino wool clothing tends to do.

The wide waistband and compression fit mean that they aren’t constantly falling down. They also have big thigh pockets, which hold my phone.

And they have the advantage of merino wool, which means they are naturally antimicrobial and don’t stink! They are a bit thicker than some of my other tights, so I save them for colder spring and fall weather.

Specs: Made of durable, compressive 71% wool, 24% nylon, 5% elastane

Check prices: Ibex

READ NEXT: 19 Best Hiking Leggings of 2022

Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra

Living in Squamish, snow and ice are a fact of life between December and March. I head out for a walk on my neighbourhood trails most days after work and go further afield on weekends.

I’ve tried various traction aids over the years, and so far, the Hillsound Trail Crampons are the best. The spikes underfoot are durable and bite into the snow well. The rubber uppers are stretchy enough to put on easily.

The best part is the secure velcro strap across the top of the foot. With my old traction devices, I’ve had them slip off a few times. In deep snow, that meant having to dig them out. Thankfully I always noticed they had fallen off, but I have friends who have lost one.

With the straps on the Hillsounds, I know they will never fall off. And they keep them more securely in place, which means that it’s easy to use them both on trail runners and my bulkier winter hiking boots.

They also come with a puncture-proof carrying bag, which is handy when I stow them inside my backpack.

Specs: Made of elastomer and stainless steel with 18 1/2″ spikes. Weight: 422g.

Check prices: Altitude Sports, REI, Amazon, Hillsound Canada

BC Backpacking in Your Inbox!

Sign up to receive a bi-monthly newsletter from Taryn at Dawn Outdoors stuffed with the latest on backpacking in BC including:

• conditions reports,
  
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• and lots more!

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Eddie Bauer MicroTherm Down Hooded Jacket

I own a LOT of insulated jackets, but I tend to wear my Eddie Bauer MicroTherm more than all the others combined. It’s a lightweight down jacket that packs lots of warmth for its weight and compresses into its own pocket. I wear it in camp on summer backpacking trips and on winter snowshoeing trips too.

In a lot of ways, it’s similar to lightweight down jackets from other brands: It uses Responsible Down certified 800 fill power down (which is super high quality and lightweight). It stows into its own pocket. And it has wind- and water-resistant outer fabric.

But the big game changer for me is the stretch side panels under the arms. I tend to sweat a lot, so having a panel of fleece in the armpit to allow me to vent without removing the jacket is key.

The fleece arm panels are also awesome because they add mobility. I often find that jackets are tight in the shoulders and chest, but since these panels have some stretch, the fit is perfect for me.

Specs: Made of windproof 20-denier ripstop polyester with a DWR finish and 800-fill power RDS down. Weight: 332g.

Check prices: Eddie Bauer, Eddie Bauer Canada, Amazon

So those are my favourite pieces of hiking gear in 2022. What were your favourites this year? Share them in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• My Favourite Hiking Gear – 2023 Edition
• My Favourite Hiking Gear of 2024
• My Favourite Hiking Gear of 2025
• Gear I Use
• 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear
• Is Merino Wool Worth It? Pros and Cons
• Which Women’s Specific Hiking Gear is Actually Worth Buying?
• Women’s Plus Size Hiking Clothes: The Best Brands and Where to Find Them

The post My Favorite Hiking Gear – 2022 Edition appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I got a pair of hiking leggings about five years ago (followed by several more pairs), and now I love to wear leggings on hikes. They’re so comfortable!

In this post, I’ve got everything you need to know about hiking leggings including:

• Recommendations for the best hiking leggings in four categories: stretch-woven leggings, reinforced leggings, durable knit leggings, and winter leggings
• Why hike in leggings instead of pants? What are the pros and cons of hiking in leggings?
• How to choose hiking leggings: What features should you look for?

Psst! Looking for recommendations for hiking pants instead of leggings? Head over to my Best Women’s Hiking Pants post. It has picks for every body type.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

How I Picked

There are literally thousands of pairs of leggings out there. But most are made for running, yoga, or casual wear. Some of them are fine for hiking, and if you already own leggings you like hiking in, that’s great. But in this post, I’m focusing only on leggings designed specifically for hiking.

That means that all the leggings on this list are designed to wick sweat and use durable fabric that will stand up to scrapes and scuffs. No one wants to poke a hole in their tights or sit down on a sharp rock that creates a big tear in the butt of their leggings. (Both have happened to me when hiking in running leggings!)

Hiking leggings use a few different types of construction and fabric to make them more durable than regular leggings. I’ll explain each type and give you my picks for the best hiking leggings in four different categories.

Best Durable Knit Hiking Leggings

The hiking leggings in this category might look like regular running tights or yoga leggings. Like those leggings, they are made with knit fabric.

But in these hiking leggings, the knit fabric is a little thicker and made with more durable threads to resist abrasion. They also have hiking-specific features like pockets and a contoured fit.

Patagonia Pack Out Tights

Features: Durable knit fabric, thigh pockets

These Patagonia hiking leggings have a soft and stretchy fabric that is also abrasion resistant because it’s a double-knit that is a bit thicker than normal yoga tights. They also have a sweat-wicking finish and a durable odor-control treatment.

The Pack Out Tights have a wide waistband, but it is mid-rise, unlike most of the hiking tights on this list.

Two drop-in thigh pockets are big enough to hold your phone and a zippered pocket at the hip holds keys or cards.

Psst: These leggings are also available in plus sizes. If you’re looking for a more durable version, check out the Patagonia Pack Out Hike Tights (reviewed below).

Check prices:

Ibez Lizzi Tights

Features: Compression fit, big thigh pockets, made with anti-itch, anti-microbial merino wool fabric

I got a pair of these Ibex Lizzi merino wool hiking leggings a few years ago and I like them a lot. To be honest, I was pretty skeptical of them at first. Merino wool is not known for being a durable fabric so I thought they would get ripped easily. (Read my guide to whether Merino wool is worth it for my strong opinions on Merino wool.)

I’m happy to report that they have stood up quite well – no rips or tears yet! They are made with merino wool that is blended with nylon, which adds lots of strength, and elastane for stretch.

I do find that the fabric is quite thick (which it likely has to be for durability) so they run a little hotter than many other hiking tights. I only wear them in spring and fall or mild winter weather.

The fit is pretty good too, with a wide waistband that stays in place. The side pockets are big enough to comfortably fit my phone.

Check prices:

Eddie Bauer Trail Tight Leggings

Features: Compression fit, moisture-wicking fabric, odor-control treatment, zippered thigh pockets

I’ve had a pair of these Eddie Bauer hiking leggings for a few years and I wear them fairly often on easier hikes.

While they are more durable than regular running leggings, they aren’t as abrasion-resistant as some other tights on this list so I don’t wear them if I expect any rock scrambling or brush.

The compression fit and high-rise waist holds them in place while I hike, which I like.

The thigh pockets have zippers, which makes it a little harder to get my phone in and out, but also holds it a lot more securely.

Psst: They’re also available in plus sizes.

Check prices:

Best Reinforced Hiking Leggings

If you’re looking for tights that are a bit more durable, check out reinforced leggings for hiking. These hiking tights have fabric overlays or treatments on high-wear areas like the knees and butt. That makes them much more abrasion-resistant.

Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights

Features: Reinforced patches on knees and seat, lots of pockets

I’ve had a pair of these Fjallraven Abisko tights for the last couple of years and they’ve made their way into my regular hiking pants rotation. I even took them as my primary bottoms on my week-long Bowron Lakes Canoe Trip.

The main material is soft and stretchy like running tights. But they have reinforced fabric on the knees and butt since those are the places where you’re most likely to rip your leggings.

The other thing that I love about these hiking leggings is all the pockets. Both the thigh pockets are big enough to hold my phone. They also have a little loop for attaching your keys. I used it on my canoe trip to clip on my phone leash – that way it was impossible to drop my phone in the lake!

The wide waistband is also really comfortable and has a drawstring.

These hiking tights are definitely on the spendy side, but after wearing them a ton, I think they’re worth it.

Check prices:

Patagonia Pack Out Hike Tights

Features: Durable reinforced panels, big pockets, comfortable waistband

These reinforced hiking leggings from Patagonia are the burlier version of their Pack Out Tights (reviewed above). They use the same stretchy double knit fabric for most of the leggings. But they also have reinforced water-resistant panels at the knees and seat for extra durability.

Two big drop-in pockets on the thighs hold your phone. There’s also a small zippered pocket for keys or other small items.

The wide waistband is made of a ribbed material that is comfortable under a hip belt.

Check prices:

Best Durable Stretch Woven Hiking Leggings

The hiking leggings in this category don’t use stretchy knit fabric like you’d find in yoga leggings. Instead, they use stretch woven fabrics that you would more commonly see in summer weight softshell pants but cut like leggings.

That makes these hiking leggings much more breathable than others on this list, while also being super durable. Most of these leggings use panels of stretch knit to create a better fit, especially around the waist.

Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo Tights

Features: Abrasion-resistant fabric, lots of pockets

These Athleta leggings are made with a durable stretch woven fabric that stands up to scrapes and sharp branches. It’s a thicker fabric, more like what you might find in hiking pants, but cut like a legging.

The wide waistband is comfortable and has a drawstring.

They also have a DWR (durable water repellent) finish so they’ll resist light rain.

With six pockets (two front, two back, and two thigh), they carry everything you need.

Psst: These hiking tights are also available in plus sizes.

Check prices:

Best Winter Hiking Leggings

Hiking in regular running tights can be cold since the wind blows right through them. The durable fabrics of the hiking leggings on this list make them a bit more windproof, but they still aren’t warm enough for winter hiking.

That’s where fleece-lined hiking leggings come in. These cozy warm tights are designed for winter hiking.

Athleta Altitude Tights

Features: Made of stretchy Polartec fleece, wide waistband

I got a pair of these Athleta fleece tights a few years ago and I wear them all winter long. I’ve worn them hiking and snowshoeing, and just around the house.

The fabric is high-end Polartech Power Stretch fleece. It has a soft fleece inner and a smooth outer. It wicks moisture really well too and is a little bit wind resistant, which helps on blustery days.

The high-rise waist is really comfortable.

The original version didn’t have pockets, but I recently got a pair of the newer ones that do have thigh pockets that fit my phone.

Psst: These winter hiking leggings are also available in plus sizes.

Check prices:

Best Hiking Leggings with Pockets

Most of the leggings on this list have at least one pocket. However, if you’re searching for hiking leggings with pockets, you probably want thigh pockets big enough to hold your phone. Here are all the leggings on this list with phone pockets:

• Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo Tights
• Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights
• Patagonia Pack Out Hike Tights
• Patagonia Pack Out Tights
• Eddie Bauer Trail Tight Leggings
• Ibex Lizzi Tights

Best Plus Size Hiking Leggings

A few years ago it was rare to see hiking clothing for women in plus sizes. Thankfully, that is changing a little bit. Many of the hiking leggings on this list are available in plus sizes (larger than an XL/16).

• Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo Tights (available in sizes 0-26)
• Patagonia Pack Out Tights (available in sizes XS-XXL)
• Eddie Bauer Trail Tight Leggings (available in sizes XS-XXL)
• Athleta Altitude Tights (available in sizes XXS-3X)

READ NEXT: Women’s Plus Size Hiking Clothes: The Best Brands and Where to Find Them

Hiking Pants vs. Hiking Leggings

Are hiking pants better than leggings?

Traditional hikers will tell you they only hit the trail in hiking pants. But newer hikers often prefer to hike in leggings or tights. What’s the difference?

In general, hiking pants are more durable than leggings. They breathe better since they don’t trap as much air and moisture directly against your skin. They also have better pockets, adjustable waists, and are easier to roll up to cross streams or to vent in warm weather.

Looking for hiking pants recommendations? Head over to my best women’s hiking pants guide. It has options for every body type from petite to tall to plus size and more.

Running and yoga leggings are often made with lightweight material that is prone to snagging and tearing. They have a close fit that is designed for compression and comfort, but that can impede breathability. The stretchy knit of leggings and their close fit also means that it’s easy for bugs to bite right through leggings!

Hiking leggings take the best of hiking pants and yoga leggings and fuse them together. Hiking tights use durable fabrics that are abrasion-resistant. (But that does mean they often aren’t that breathable, which some brands offset by putting in panels of lightweight fabric.)

Leggings for hiking often have great pockets. High-end hiking leggings use body-mapped construction to ensure they stay in place and fit all your curves. I find it’s easier to find hiking leggings that fit me compared to hiking pants since they are so stretchy.

For me, hiking leggings work best for day hikes in moderate weather. In hot weather, I find leggings too hot so I wear shorts or hiking pants. On backpacking trips, I prefer hiking pants since they are more durable, breathe better, and don’t get stretched out or baggy the way leggings do.

How to Choose Hiking Leggings

There are a few features to keep in mind when choosing hiking leggings.

Durability

It should go without saying, that you need more durable leggings for hiking than you do for running or yoga. All of the leggings in this post are durable, but the ones with reinforced patches and the ones made from stretch-woven fabrics are the most durable.

Durable fabric is the main difference between hiking leggings and regular leggings.

Breathability

In general, leggings aren’t as breathable as hiking pants since they hold hot air and sweat next to your skin. And hiking leggings are often less breathable than running leggings since they are made of thicker fabric to resist abrasion.

I find that hiking in leggings is best in moderate temperatures (not too hot and not too cold). If you’re concerned about breathability, look for leggings with panels of thinner material for breathability. Stretch woven leggings also tend to be a bit more breathable than knit ones.

Sweat-Wicking

Hiking leggings are made with sweat-wicking fabrics like polyester, and nylon (also called polyamide). They sometimes also have chemical finishes to help them wick sweat even better.

Yoga and running leggings are often made with these fabrics too. But more casual leggings might use cotton, which absorbs sweat. That can be gross on a long hike!

Odor-Control

If you’ve ever done a sweaty workout in leggings, then forgotten to wash them right away, you know how badly they can pick up stink. The nylon and polyester fibres in leggings are prone to odors, which can be a problem on long trips. Look for leggings with anti-bacterial odor-control finishes.

Already own stinky leggings? Read my guide to getting smells out of hiking clothing.

Fit

Cheap leggings often have a generic fit with straight-up-and-down side seams. This often doesn’t work for the athletic moves that you need to do while hiking, including high stepping and squatting.

Regular leggings also sometimes are prone to bunching up in the crotch or behind the knees. The waistbands also droop or roll over.

Hiking leggings are cut to move with you. This means lots more panels and seams, placed in an intentional way to create a great fit.

Hiking leggings often also have an internal drawcord. That can be useful on longer trips where the fabric relaxes.

Weather Resistance

Some hiking leggings have a DWR (durable water repellent coating) that makes them a bit more water-resistant. However, they won’t keep you dry in a rainstorm, and the coating wears off over time.

So far, waterproof hiking leggings don’t exist. (Stretchy material is impossible to make totally waterproof while also being comfortable to wear.) You’ll have to buy a pair of rain pants to layer over top of your leggings if you plan to hike in wet weather.

Pockets

One of the biggest reasons I like to hike in leggings (besides the comfort) is to have easy access to my phone. Many hiking leggings come with great thigh pockets that are sized to fit your phone. (They are also a great size for carrying a granola bar.)

Final Thoughts

So that’s everything you need to know about hiking leggings. If you haven’t tried leggings designed for hiking, give them a go – they’re so comfortable! If you have questions or can suggest an alternative pair of hiking leggings, leave them in the comments.

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