Hiking clothing

What outdoor clothing do I need?

At Plutosport.nl you'll find a wide range of hiking clothing for both women and men from various well-known outdoor brands. Going hiking together with kids? We've thought of that too! You'll also find cheerful and comfortable hiking clothing for girls and boys.

While hiking, we recommend wearing multiple layers of hiking clothing, so you can prepare for the different weather conditions. By wearing different layers you never need to feel too warm or too cold. Hiking clothing is divided into three layers. The first layer is the base layer, followed by the mid layer, and finally the outer layer. It's not always necessary to wear all these layers. Depending on the weather forecast, you choose which layers to wear while hiking. On a warm summer day, just the mid layer alone might be enough, for example, while in winter you might choose to double up on some layers. Below we explain everything about the 3-layer system and which garments belong to which layer.

Thermal wear while hiking

The first layer, the base layer, is a moisture-regulating layer and also the first source of warmth. This layer is only worn in cold or wet weather. This layer needs to transport sweat well to the second layer, so you stay warm and dry. Cotton isn't suitable for this layer; it absorbs sweat but then holds onto it. The clothing then starts to feel heavy and wet. Hiking clothing made from polyester or polypropylene is a suitable material for this layer instead. It absorbs sweat and passes it on quickly to the second layer. It's important that the first layer is a close-fitting top, for example in the form of thermal wear. On warm days it's not necessary to wear a base layer.

Outdoor shirt or outdoor polo

The second layer, the mid layer, is meant to store warmth and further transport sweat towards the next layer. The mid layer consists of a slightly looser garment. This layer needs to fit more loosely, because that allows a warm, insulating layer of air to form between the base layer and the mid layer, which retains heat well. This layer also needs to be made of breathable clothing. On warm days it's not necessary to wear a base layer; choose, for example, a hiking shirt or hiking polo with short sleeves instead. Just make sure the shirts aren't made of cotton, as this doesn't wick away sweat as quickly.

Want to hike in autumn or early spring when the temperature isn't quite warm enough yet? A good mid layer can also be a bodywarmer, worn simply over a long-sleeved shirt. In winter, a fleece jacket makes a good mid layer, worn over a base layer. Make sure the mid layer is never tight, so an insulating layer of air can form that retains warmth.

The outdoor trousers

The hiking trousers also belong to the mid layer. We advise against wearing jeans while hiking. These are sturdy trousers, but they're too warm and don't wick away moisture. Jeans can only be worn in cold, dry weather. When trousers get wet, they become heavy, and when it's windy this feels cold, which may also increase the risk of getting ill.

Hiking trousers suited to hiking are made of light, quick-drying material. Some hiking trousers have zip-off legs so you can turn them into shorts on the spot, handy when it's warmer outside than expected. Make sure the zip sits above the knee so it doesn't rub during the hike. Hiking trousers also often have plenty of pockets to store items in. This is handy if you're not carrying much and taking a short hike. Going on a longer hike and/or bringing large and heavy luggage? Then it's smarter to bring your things in a hiking backpack.

Softshell jacket or rain jacket while hiking

The third and final layer is the outer layer, in other words an outdoor jacket. This layer needs to offer protection against wind, rain and snow. It's wise to always bring this layer on a hike. The weather can always turn, and otherwise this layer can come in handy when, for example, you take a break. As an outer layer you can use a rain jacket, softshell jacket or poncho, the latter being mainly suitable for a summer shower. Just make sure the outer layer keeps out wind and rain while still letting perspiration escape to the outside air.

Protect your head from cold and sun

In summer it's important to wear an outdoor cap, which prevents sunburn and sunstroke. In winter the body loses a lot of energy because it needs to keep itself warm. Much of this energy is lost through the head. To limit energy loss in winter, we recommend wearing an outdoor cap or hat while hiking.

Outdoor socks

Blisters are hikers' biggest headache. They're often caused by wearing the wrong socks. Make sure you wear the right size of socks with the right features. Hiking socks have flat seams that prevent irritation, and their moisture-wicking properties keep the socks dry.

Tip

Wash new outdoor socks before wearing them on a hike. This makes the socks less slippery, so your feet slide around less inside your hiking shoes.