Want to feel comfortable and serve looks on the trail at the same time? Then come take a look at our practical guide to putting together solid hiking outfits for women! Just because you’re gearing up for a trip out to the boonies doesn’t mean you can’t feel confident and comfortable while navigating trails! With modern outdoor clothes and accessories, you can easily match performance and aesthetics. Read our full guide to women’s hiking outfits below.
Women’s Hiking Outfit: Packing Checklist
To help you complete your look that will stun on the trail while keeping you comfortable and ready for action, we’ll go down the list and cover each article of clothing, top to bottom. With this list, you’ll be able to hit the trail in style, no matter the season!
Headwear
No trail-ready look that boasts comfort, style, and functionality can be complete without a piece of season-appropriate headgear. Depending on the weather, you’ll either want to get out there with a simple trucker hat for sun protection, like the Kuhl Low Profile Kuhl Trucker. It keeps both the rays and the sweat at bay and comes in a beautiful floral design.
For winter and autumn hikers, your head will need more protection to keep heat from escaping. That’s when you reach for added warmth in the form of a headband or a fleece-lined lambswool hat to keep yourself comfortable in all weather conditions.
Tops, Jackets & Base Layers
When hiking in the summer, prioritize lightweight and breathable fabrics to stay cool in the heat. A t-shirt, tank top, or even a sports bra will do the trick!
For colder weather, layering becomes the key to locking in warmth. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, like merino wool or synthetic fabrics. For your mid-layer, choose a fleece or insulated jacket that adds comfort without too much bulk. Hiking in the rain obviously will call for something waterproof, whereas for winter hikes, be sure to pack something extra warm for more insulation.
Backpacks
Planning a trip that will last more than a quick couple hours? You definitely need a backpack, then! Opt for something with enough volume to stash your belongings and hiking gadgets without overencumbering yourself.
In our article on the Best Hiking Backpacks, we recommended the Deuter Futura 32 as a versatile, budget-friendly option, perfect for shorter trips. For longer hikes, the Deuter Aircontact Core 70+10 offers incredible value for money.
Pants
We’re back to discussing apparel, and once again, style won’t be your only consideration here. You’ll want to adjust for the incoming weather and the current season, naturally. To stay warm when adventuring in winter, opt for insulated, fleece-lined pants or softshells that block wind and retain warmth.
Hiking in the shoulder season allows for a little more flexibility. Consider lightweight pants with some stretch, and, ideally, a solid degree of waterproofing. Staying dry is key when wet weather hiking.
In summer, breathable, quick-drying pants or hiking leggings keep you cool and allow for a full range of movement, with options like convertible pants adding versatility for those especially warm days.
Footwear
Choosing the perfect hiking boots is key to feeling comfortable and stable on the trail. In winter, insulated, waterproof boots keep your feet warm and dry, with added traction for overcoming slippery terrain. For spring and fall, mid-weight hiking boots will cover most of your needs, but ensuring they’re waterproof remains a critical requirement. In the summer, you can opt for lightweight, less robust models that prioritize breathability and prevent overheating.
Putting It All Together: Examples of Hiking Outfits for Women
Let’s showcase some example fits you could put together depending on what the weather calls for!
Effortless Summer Hiking Option
Headwear: The KÜHL Low Profile Trucker Hat shields your face from the sun while maintaining breathability, adding a casual, sporty vibe.
Top/Outerwear: For sunny days, start with the lightweight Purnell Gauze Tank for optimal ventilation, and, optionally, layer with the L.L. Bean Airlight Knit Pullover if the temperature drops.
Pants: The KÜHL Trekr Kapri offers a flexible, cropped fit that keeps you cool and comfortable, with added stretch for unrestricted movement on warm hikes.
Footwear: The Vasque Breeze LT NTX hiking shoes are lightweight and breathable, providing grip and comfort without overheating, ideal for summer trails.
Cold Weather Trail Layers
Headwear: The Sherpa Adventure Gear Hanssi Hat offers essential warmth with a snug fit, keeping your head cozy even in the wind.
Top/Outerwear: Layer the Patagonia Better Sweater 1/4 Zip under the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket for insulation and protection from rain and snow. The sweater traps heat, while the waterproof jacket keeps out cold wind and moisture.
Pants: The Royal Robbins Alpine Mountain Pro Pant provides a durable, insulated layer, keeping your legs shielded from cold weather while allowing full mobility on rugged trails.
Footwear: Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots are perfect for cold and uneven terrain. They combine waterproofing with strong ankle support to keep you steady and dry.
The Takeaway
Our proposed women’s hiking outfits are just a drop in the ocean in terms of the creativity and fun you can have when stylizing fashionable and trail-ready garments. Feel free to use them as direct inspiration, or—better yet—come up with your own! Imagination is your only limit here.
You may also read: Seasonal Hiking Tips: How to Prepare for Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter Adventures