If you were born in the 90s, there’s a pretty good chance our childhoods were very similar. I spent 90% of my summer vacations outside, either playing in the woods, swimming, or biking around town. These adventures helped me foster a deep love for the great outdoors.

As much as I loved being outside, my plans were always impacted by the weather. If it was raining, too hot, or too cold, I wouldn’t go outside. This was largely due to the fact that I didn’t wear or even own “outdoorsy” clothing that helps you stay warm, dry, and comfortable. And, to be honest, outdoor clothing wasn’t as popular (or as stylish) back then as it is now.

Today, my passion for the outdoors remains, but the weather no longer limits what I can do. This is largely due to how much I have learned about appropriate hiking clothing for every season. I’m also largely thankful for how far athletic clothing has come in the past twenty years. Now, I would like to share all of this knowledge with you!

To stay warm and dry this summer, try investing in these essential summer hiking clothes:

Darn Tough socks

These Vermont-made socks are guaranteed for life. They're even tested by Darn Tough employees to hold up to every season and outdoor activity. They may cost a little more than other socks you’ve bought in the past, but they’re worth it. Every Darn Tough sock comes with an unconditional lifetime guarantee. If the socks don’t hold up for any reason, you can return them for another pair.

With so many different sock styles, materials, and heights, there is a Darn Tough sock for every occasion. My personal favorite is the lightweight micro crew socks. They’re perfect for hiking, biking, or any other outdoor activity. They’re lightweight, moisture-wicking, breathable, and fast-drying. Trust me, once you go darn tough, you can never go back.

Breathable hiking pants

I’m sorry, but leggings don’t cut it when it the weather gets hot and humid. Which is why every hiker needs a good pair of hiking pants. My personal favorite hiking pants are these Pinedale pants from Stio. I love how they fit—slim, yet stretchy. They seem to hug you in all the right places. They’re water repellant and do a pretty bang-up job wicking moisture.

I think my favorite thing about these pants is that they come in both short, long, and regular hem lengths. It’s so hard to find hiking pants when you’re petite (can I get an amen?!) and, to my surprise, these pants fit me perfectly in every way.

Lightweight hiking shorts

If hiking pants aren’t your vibe, there are plenty of high-quality hiking shorts on the market today.

These terral shorts from Stio are everything you want in a hiking short—comfortable, stretchy, and breathable. I also love FreeFly’s bamboo-lined active breeze short. They are lightweight, quick-drying, and so flattering!

A moisture wicking, lightweight top

A breathable, lightweight short or long-sleeve shirt is a staple in every hiker’s closet. This Sahara short-sleeve shirt from REI is perfect for every outdoor summer activity, due to its polyester blend. It will keep sweat off your back so you can appear calm, cool, and collected, even if you’re huffing and puffing up the trail. To shop the long-sleeve version of this shirt, click here.

A warm fleece

Equally as important as the lightweight top is the fleece you layer over it. This fleece from REI is lightweight, breathable, and quick drying. It’ll help you retain heat and stay warmer longer. An added bonus—this fleece is available in a range of sizes and colors!

With the right gear, hiking in the summer can be both rewarding and comfortable, regardless of the weather. I hope you’ve found this article both helpful and insightful!

Happy Hiking!

MyMaine