Hiking Boots versus Hiking Shoes
Wear a sturdy pair of hiking boots for all kinds of terrain, including some bouldering. These boots offer ankle support and also protect your feet from harmful thorns and even snake bites. Hiking shoes, on the other hand, are perfect for hikes that keep you on relatively even terrain until you hit a mountain you would like to practice some rock climbing on. Hiking boots do not allow for very secure footholds, whereas hiking shoes can double as rock-climbing footwear in some cases.
Hiking Shirts
Start out with a short sleeved hiking shirt made from breathable materials that also wicks moisture away from your skin. Depending on the length of your hike and the outdoor temperatures, you are bound to sweat and having this sweat remain on your skin for the duration of your hike may make for some painful and itchy red spots at the end of the day. Follow it up with a secondary, thin, long sleeved hiking shirt that you can take off if needed. Dressing in layers is crucial when hiking and having this secondary hiking shirt is a great alternative to wearing a jacket, if the weather is somewhat in between cool and cold.
Hiking Shorts versus Pants
Opt for hiking shorts versus pants if you are planning a day hike in warm weather. Allowing your skin to breathe provides you with the cooling off you need to stay comfortable and unless there are insect warnings in the area where you will hike, shorts suffice. Long pants are required hiking gear if you anticipate inclement weather or believe that you might end up in territory where you could encounter poison oak, ticks, or other flora and fauna that might be harmful.
Hiking Jacket
Purchase a jacket specifically for your hikes. It should have a waterproof exterior and a removable fleece interior. This makes it perfect for either summer or winter hikes, since you can adjust the jacket's warmth to the current weather conditions. A number of small pockets ensure that you can keep a utility knife, cell phone, water, snack, map and compass on your body; this minimizes the potential of losing these lifesaving items if the backpack gets lost.
Hiking Hat and Gloves
Do not leave home without a hat and gloves. Gloves come in handy even in warm weather, if you end up bouldering during a part of the hike. The hat protects your eyes from the sunlight and, during rainy weather, helps to keep your vision clear. It also serves to protect your head from overheating in the sun and can shield your neck and nose from the burning rays.
