Backpacking and hiking clothes

The insulating layer of your backpacking and hiking clothes is designed to keep you warm by holding in body heat and wicking away moisture, picking up where the base layer leaves off. You can have multiple insulation layers.


Shirt

I recommend including a synthetic long-sleeve shirt in your pack. Besides keeping you warm when it's chilly, a long-sleeve shirt will protect you from sun and insects.


Sweater

Synthetic fleeces are the most widely used material for insulating outdoor clothing because it's lightweight, breathable and insulates even when wet. Wool is also an excellent insulator but fleece dries faster and has a higher warmth-to-weight ratio. Fleece clothing is available in different weights for different uses.


Pants

There are many material options for pants and shorts, including modern fabrics suitable for outdoor activities. Common materials include nylon and a fabric blend of polyester and cotton. Both alternatives are breathable, wick moisture away and dry quickly.


Headgear

Headgear can provide sun protection and warmth, but the type of headgear you will choose will depend on the weather. If it’s sunny, a good alternative is a wide-brimmed hat, to protect both your face and neck from the sun. A baseball cap is great when carrying a backpack. If the weather is cold or windy, a warm hat will be good.


Continue to read about layer three, the weatherproof outer layer.