Outdoor clothes

What outdoor clothing do I need?

On Plutosport.nl you will find a wide range of hiking clothing from various well-known outdoor brands for both women and men. If you are hiking with children, there are options available for them as well! You will also find cheerful and comfortable hiking clothing for girls and boys.

When hiking, we recommend wearing multiple layers of hiking clothing so that you can be prepared for different weather conditions. By wearing different layers, you can avoid feeling too hot or too cold. Hiking clothing can be divided into three layers. The first layer is the base layer, followed by the mid layer, and finally the outer layer. It is not always necessary to wear all these layers. Depending on the weather forecast, you can choose which layers to wear while hiking. For example, on a warm summer day, only the mid layer may be sufficient, while in winter you may choose to double up on some layers. Below, we explain everything about the 3-layer system and which clothing items belong to each layer.

Thermal clothing while hiking

The first layer, or the base layer, is a moisture-wicking layer and also the first source of warmth. This layer is only worn in cold or wet weather. This layer should be able to efficiently wick sweat away to the second layer, keeping you warm and dry. Cotton is not suitable for this layer, as it absorbs sweat but then holds onto it. Clothing made of polyester or polypropylene is suitable for this layer as it absorbs sweat and quickly transfers it to the second layer. It is important that the base layer is a tight-fitting shirt, for example in the form of thermal clothing. On warm days, it is not necessary to wear a base layer.

Outdoor shirt or outdoor polo

The second layer, the mid layer, is designed to retain heat and further wick away sweat to the next layer. The mid layer consists of a slightly looser garment. This layer should be looser to allow for a warm, insulating air layer to form between the base layer and the mid layer, which retains heat well. This layer should also be made of breathable material. On warm days, it is not necessary to wear a base layer; instead, opt for a hiking shirt or hiking polo with short sleeves. Ensure that the shirts are not made of cotton, as this material hinders the quick evaporation of sweat.

If you plan to hike in the fall or early spring and the temperature is not quite warm enough, a good mid layer option could be a bodywarmer, worn over a long-sleeve shirt. In winter, a fleece vest is a good mid layer, to be worn over a base layer. Make sure the mid layer is not tight-fitting to allow for an insulating air layer that retains heat.

The outdoor pants

The hiking pants also belong to the mid layer. We advise against wearing jeans while hiking. While jeans are durable, they are too warm and do not wick away moisture. Jeans can only be worn in cold, dry weather. When jeans get wet, they become heavy, and in windy conditions, they can feel cold and increase the risk of getting sick.

Hiking pants suitable for hiking are made of lightweight, quick-drying material. Some hiking pants have zip-off legs, allowing you to convert them into shorts on the spot, which is convenient when the weather turns out to be warmer than expected. Ensure that the zipper falls above the knee to prevent irritation during the hike. Hiking pants often have many pockets for storing items. It is useful to use these pockets when carrying minimal items and going for a short walk. If you plan a longer hike and/or carry large and heavy gear, it is wiser to carry the items in a hiking backpack.

Softshell jacket or rain jacket while hiking

The third and final layer is the outer layer, namely an outdoor jacket. This layer should provide protection against wind, rain, and snow. It is advisable to always carry this layer with you during a hike. Weather conditions can change, and this layer may come in handy when taking a break, for example. As an outer layer, you can use a rain jacket, softshell jacket, or poncho, with the latter being more suitable for a summer shower. Ensure that the outer layer keeps wind and rain out but allows sweat to evaporate to the outside.

Protect your head from cold and sun

In summer, it is important to wear an outdoor cap to prevent sunburn and heatstroke. In winter, the body loses a lot of energy as it needs to keep itself warm. Much of this energy is lost through the head. To minimize energy loss in winter, we recommend wearing an outdoor cap or beanie while hiking.

Outdoor socks

Blisters are the biggest obstacle for hikers. They are often caused by wearing the wrong socks. Make sure to wear the correct size socks with the right properties. Hiking socks have flat seams to prevent irritation and moisture-wicking properties to keep the socks dry.

Tip

Wash new outdoor socks before wearing them on a hike. This will reduce slipperiness, preventing your feet from sliding in the hiking shoes.