· Foida Team · Outdoor Gear  · 3 min read

Hiking Equipment Guide

A comprehensive guide to what to wear on the trails, season by season. Learn how to layer effectively for any hiking adventure.

A comprehensive guide to what to wear on the trails, season by season. Learn how to layer effectively for any hiking adventure.

Hiking Equipment Guide

When you are going on a hike it can be difficult to know what to wear. Layers are your best friend when outdoors and the right combination offers exceptional adaptability. By wearing proper layers for the season, you can easily regulate the thermal effect and protection, giving yourself an optimal experience.

Let us guide you through the seasons for a premium hiking experience with Foida gear.

Fall

Fall usually brings a bit colder and wetter weather, and it’s important to be ready for anything. For the bottom part we love a good rugged hiking pant that can withstand most conditions, also bring a pair of waterproof pants as an extra layer if needed.

For the top, this is a season when we want to start with a long sleeve base layer. Combine with a midlayer made from warming wool and a jacket with light synthetic insulation. The wool and the synthetic insulated layer keep you warm even when damp, and are great for fall weather. Combine with a waterproof outer layer with features that allow for thermal regulation.

By adding a pair of gloves, a neck gaiter and a beanie you have a complete protective fall setup.

Winter

Winter can be cold, and layering is important to stay warm but not get too hot. A base layer long johns together with a pair of shell pants are ideal. If the weather gets very cold, throw on a pair of insulated shorts.

For the top we want to start with a base layer combined with a warm midlayer, and an insulated jacket for warmth. For dry conditions a down layer offers optimal warmth-to-weight ratio, whereas a synthetic layer is ideal in damp conditions. For the outer layer we want a waterproof shell to protect against wind and water.

Our go-to accessories during winter hikes are a pair of waterproof gloves, a warming neck gaiter and a beanie made from wool.

Spring

During spring the air is crisp, but the season can also offer warmer weather. When hiking during spring you need moisture-wicking layers that keep you warm, but breathable enough to remove excess heat.

For the bottom we want a sturdy hiking pant with great breathability, not too warm but not too cold. On the upper body we start with a short-sleeve base layer, then combine with a light fleece for a great thermal- and moisture-wicking effect. We also want to bring an insulated layer, and preferably one made from synthetic materials; perfect for the colder moments and optimal in damp conditions.

And don’t forget about accessories. A light pair of gloves, a breathable neck gaiter and a cap protect against the cold and the sun. Pack a lightweight waterproof shell and you are ready for a full day outdoors.

Summer

Summer brings warmer weather, and this is a season of bare legs and warm summer breezes. A pair of wind resistant and quick-drying shorts, or a light pair of hiking pants when you need full coverage, are ideal for summer hikes.

A breathable and moisture-wicking t-shirt is a great start to your top layers, add a lightweight and durable shirt or wind jacket for extra protection against sun and wind. Always bring a midlayer for moments of inactivity to stay warm, and don’t forget the packable waterproof layer in case the weather shifts.

For accessories we love a breathable scarf for its high versatility, and an expedition hat for optimal protection from the sun.

Need more guidance?

Explore our other guides for detailed advice on shell jackets, pants, layering, insulated jackets, and backpacks.

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