SUMMER HIKING ESSENTIALS: THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO GEAR AND CLOTHING

Here in Norway, we have a beautiful saying – “Det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlig klær!” which basically translates to “There is no bad weather, only bad clothes!” As someone who doesn’t mind running in the winter at -15°C, I couldn’t agree more with that sentiment.

People often forget that you don’t really need fancy clothing to have fun exploring the mountains, especially during the summer. If the weather is good, you can get away with almost anything (well, maybe except for flip-flops and jeans) as long as you are careful and know what you’re doing. However, when the weather isn’t as enjoyable as you’d hoped, the right clothing not only saves the fun but ultimately could save your health and sometimes even your life. It’s worth remembering that in most places, the weather can often change and it’s usually nicer at lower altitudes than on higher parts. If you hike in the mountains, it can change quicker than we think. By wearing the right clothes, you will keep yourself comfortable and protected so you can focus on the most important part: enjoying the experience.

THE ART OF LAYERING

If you, like me, come from a land where the weather spins through all four seasons (shoutout to beautiful Poland), then you’ve likely been schooled from a young age on the art of dressing “like an onion.” Which basically means: layer upon layer. This isn’t just to keep your grandma from worrying, it’s practical advice that becomes second nature.

Why layers?

In climates where the weather can switch from sunny to stormy in a few minutes, wearing multiple layers allows you to adapt quickly and efficiently. This flexibility is important not just in everyday life but becomes essential when you’re out in the wild. Bergans, a Norwegian outdoor brand explained it nicely here.

• Base Layer: This is your moisture management layer. Choose the best materials that wick sweat away from your skin to keep you dry and comfortable. Synthetics or merino wool are top choices, each with their pros and cons depending on the intensity of your activity and the weather. I personally prefer synthetic materials during summer.
• Mid Layer: Think of this as your insulation. A good mid-layer retains body heat to protect you from the cold. Fleece jackets, lightweight down jackets, or even thicker wool sweaters are perfect.
• Outer Layer: This is your shield against the elements. Your outermost layer should be windproof and/or waterproof yet breathable, allowing moisture to escape while blocking out rain and wind. Soft-shell jackets are pretty good since they block the wind and rain (to certain extent). Gore-tex jackets are proven to be good and it’s always good to own a piece.

Pro tip: avoid cotton clothes as it absorbs too much moisture, is heavy, has poor temperature regulation and takes a long time to dry. Same with socks, instead choose materials like wool, merino wool, polyester, or nylon instead. Surely, if you’re only going to hike for an hour or two it doesn’t matter that much but for a bit more serious trips stay out of cotton (and jeans too!)

FOOTWEAR

Picking the right shoes for a summer hike isn’t just about fancy looks, it’s about keeping those feet happy while you explore trails. Let me explain why comfort and fit should be at the top of your list when choosing your summer hiking footwear.

Trail running shoes are a hit for summer hikes for good reason. They’re light, they breathe well and they bend just right when you’re dancing over roots and rocks. Make sure there’s enough cushion to protect your feet against pebbles and enough room to prevent your toes from feeling like sardines even when they swell up a bit in the heat.

Hiking boots? Think of them as your dependable friends when the trail gets rough and keep the dirt out. Getting the fit right is crucial. If they are too tight and you’re on your way for blister trouble and if too loose – it’s like walking in oversized boots. Make sure your heel is securely fastened while leaving enough room for your toes to move freely, enjoying those views!

Pro tip for trying them on: Always try new shoes on when your feet are most swollen! Yep, that means (ideally) after a long day. Throw on the socks you’ll hike in to really get the feel. Do a lap around the store, hop a little, some mini squats and just do what it takes to make sure they feel just right. No pinching, no rubbing. If they’re comfy in the store, they’ll should be your best friends on the trail.

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