He finally asked you on a date and the plan is to go … HIKING! Well, it can be fun to spend the day together in the great outdoors, with the sun on your cheek and the breeze in your hair. But before you conquer the trail with him, you must defeat a huge closet issue: What to wear on a hiking date? When your heart tells you to look cute and your head reminds you about comfort and safety, it is hard to find the right balance. So let’s end the dilemma once and for all, shall we?
Every season is different and requires a different attire. So to make it easier, I divided the hiking date outfit recommendations by season. With 2 different looks for each season, you should definitely find some inspiration for your upcoming date. But before we dive into what to wear, let’s take a closer at what you need to know before going on a hiking date, especially if you never hiked before.
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Things To Consider Before Going On a Hiking Date
You guys are going on a hike, but is he talking about a gentle stroll by the River Thames or climbing Snowdown? Here are a few things to consider before going on a hike.
The Trail
Before going hiking, you need to prepare for your journey. If you are the one planning the day, then it is easier: you can choose what you feel comfortable with. However, if he is taking the lead, there are some questions you need to ask him ahead of the big day.
- Terrain: Is it a paved towpath by a canal, a sandy path by the coast or a rocky trail to the top of a mountain?
- Difficulty: Is it beginner-friendly or for experienced hikers?
- Distance: Lond distance requires a higher level of fitness and some good gear in your pack.
- Time: Are you starting early or is the hike more likely to finish after sundown?
You don’t know how to evaluate the duration of a hike based on the distance and the terrain? Check Naismith’s rule here to help you plan the trail.
The Weather
This can make or break your hike, especially if you are not appropriately dressed. Here are a few things for you.
- Weather Forecast: Rain or sun? Check the weather forecast before deciding what to wear
- Season: Whilst it is more common to have a sunny day in August and a downpour in November, we often forget that seasons are not only about the weather but also about the daylight. This being said, it is no breaking news that you get longer days in summer than in winter. Shorter days in winter mean that you not only need to bring more layers as it gets cooler when after sundown, but you equally need to remember to bring a headlamp or a torch with you.
Level of Fitness
Are you a complete beginner? Or maybe he is? You don’t want to be a burden because you can’t keep up but equally, you don’t want him to struggle on a trail he cannot handle.
Remember that the purpose is to get to know each other whilst doing something that is FUN for both of you. And if one of you is suffering, where is the fun in that? At the end of the day, it is a date, not a competition.
Is Hiking a Good Idea for a Date?
Well, if you are asking me, the answer is YES. But that’s because I don’t need to have a date to go hiking. I hike every weekend already!
It’s fun
If you are new to it, a hiking date is a fun and more casual way to get to know someone. Forget the nerve-wracking tete-a-tete at the coffee shop. This time you can move around, run or even jump whilst chatting. And if you don’t know what to talk about, you can start by talking about what you see on the trail. What a nice ice-breaker that is!
It’s a compatibility test
Forget about compatibility between zodiac signs: go hiking together for a day and you will know for sure if you are compatible! If you cannot handle one day without the thought of killing him coming to your mind (well, maybe not literally) then how do you expect to spend the rest of your life with him? So save yourself some time: go hiking with him and you will know straight away if he is right for you!
So now we covered the basics, let’s take a closer look at what you should wear on a hiking date. Divided by season, you will find hiking outfit ideas, advice and tips, so you know what to wear on a hiking date all year round!
What to Wear on a Hiking Date – Summer
So in summer, you don’t want to be too warm (who wants to be all sweaty and smelly on a first date?) but you also need to be ready in case of showers. It is Britain after all, so the weather can change throughout the day. So let’s check some looks that you can adopt for your hiking date and where you can get these items from.
Look 1 – Long Sleeve T-shirt & Leggings
Long sleeve T-shirt.
Opt for a moisture-wicking fabric T-shirt like merino wool. This way you can stay dry and fresh all day. Remember to wear lighter colours in summer as they reflect the sunlight so you won’t be too hot. However, never wear white on a hike as this colour attracts insects. A white T-shirt dotted with black gnats? No thanks!
Tank Top
Wear a tank top underneath the long sleeve t-shirt so that you can layer down should the temperatures rise up
Leggings
They are ideal for a hiking date as they are comfortable but also flattering. When choosing a pair of leggings to wear in the great outdoors, leave the gym pants in your closet. They are made in fabrics that are too thin to resist branches and other obstacles on the trail. Ripped-off leggings aren’t a great look for a date. Instead, opt for yoga pants. They are thicker and more resistant without losing their stretchiness.
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Look 2 – T-shirt & Shorts
T-shirt
When it is hot outside, wearing something too tight may become uncomfortable. Sweat patches showing and wet fabric sticking to your body are part of the inconvenience. So, instead, why not try to wear an oversized T-shirt to get some natural AC between your skin and your top ? Not sexy enough for a date! Well, just tie a knot on the front the same high as your natural waist. You can even exhibit a bit of belly if you feel comfortable.
Shorts
Let’s show off these legs! Wearing a dress or a skirt is out of the question on a hike, so you are left with one option: shorts. Comfortable and breathable, you will be able to tackle any kind of terrain, from an easy countryside dirt road to some rocky mountain paths. The only issue with shorts is that they won’t protect your legs from branches scratches or insect bites. Make sure you know what type of hike you are doing, and if it is a trail through a bushy forest, opt for Look 1 above instead. I mean, you don’t want to end the hike with itchy red spots and bloody lacerations on your legs, right?
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Accessories for Summer
What are the hiking essentials for summer? Let’s have a look at the accessories to add to your look.
Footwear
Shoes can make or break your hiking experience. If you are planning an easy hike on a hot day or maybe you need to cross some streams on the route, opt for hiking sandals to allow your feet to breathe. If you are not the type to shoe your toenails on a first date (nothing wrong with that), opt for a pair of trail runners. Lightweight and breathable, they offer the comfort as well as the grip you need on more challenging terrain. Don’t forget that if you suffer from a weak ankle or previous ankle injuries, you must always opt for a pair of hiking boots as they offer ankle support. Summer hiking boots are made of more breathable materials than traditional sturdy leather boots.
Cap
If the sun is out, you must protect your head to avoid overheating. A heat stroke on a date is never a great look. Accessorise your outfit with a cap for a nice finishing touch.
Sunglasses
It goes without saying. However, what needs to be said is that your pair of fashion designer sunglasses must stay at home. Hiking is not the place for a pair of fancy glamorous sunglasses, but for real quality. When you spend the whole day out in the sun, you need to wear spectacles with polarised lenses. They give a more precise vision which alleviates the pressure on the eyes and prevents migraines.
Swim Suit
Does the hike involve a dip? Coastal walk, river, lake or springs, the options are endless to cool down at the end of the walk. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit or wear it instead of your underwear. You can opt for the surfer-style bikini: a bandeau shape top and a shorty bottom, so you are not too revealing but you are also comfortable when walking with your bikini on.
Looking for more information about what to wear hiking in summer? Check my tips and advice here.
What to Wear on a Hiking Date – Winter
When it comes to wintertime, there is only one rule: layer up, layer up and layer up! But with all these layers, you quickly reassemble more to the Michelin man than a pretty girl. So what can we wear to remain attractive on a hiking date when it is cold outside?
Look 1 – Layer Up with Colours
If you have to look a bit bulky with all these clothes on, add a bit of colour for the feminine touch!
For a perfectly warm and technical outfit on a winter hiking date, layer up your clothes as follows:
Base Layer
This is the layer that is the closest to your body. Choose a moisture-wicking fabric such as merino wool to absorb the sweat from your skin and keep you dry.
Fleece
They offer an additional layer to trap the warmth from your body and prevent you from getting cold.
Insulated Jacket
Whether you choose to wear a fleece or not, you need an insulated or down jacket to keep you warm and cosy. As they are an outer layer, they come with features such as being water repellant or waterproof, as opposed to a fleece.
Outer Shell
This is your final outer layer should it be raining or windy. Even if your insulated jacket offers some level of weather protection, only your outer shell will keep the rain and wind away. You can opt for a hard shell or a soft shell depending on the severity of the weather where you are. With a good insulated jacket underneath, I would recommend opting for a soft shell. They are lighter and more packable, so easy to take on and off, should you start feeling warm during the walk. Also, because they are thinner, they will be more flattering on a hiking date than the bulky hard shell.
Trousers
In winter wear a pair of thermal trousers to keep you warm. They are thick and robust so they will resist any branches and other obstacles on the way. Once again, depending on how cold it is expected to be, you might want to look at wearing a pair of thermal leggings underneath your trousers.
Of course, don’t forget to add some colour to your look by choosing an outer layer that pops!
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Look 2 – Casual
Hiking does not mean it has to be difficult. It could just be a long walk in a park, wandering in a forested area or visiting a National Trust site. So let’s keep it casual.
Turtle Neck
Yes, you read me well, let’s wear a timeless woollen roll neck! Not the best fabric when going on a strenuous hike, but will definitely look great on a casual stroll. Underneath the knitwear, you can wear a t-shirt or a thermal top to keep you warm. You could even opt for the above-mentioned merino wool base layer to stay dry.
Leggings
To contrast with a large top, opt for a tight bottom. Leggings always go great with a big jumper or roll neck. Opt for thermal leggings for warmth and thickness, they will not tear apart at the first obstacle.
Shoes
Let’s be a bit more stylish with this look and trade our pair of sturdy hiking boots for a pair of fashionable walking boots. To contrast with the black and white of the look, opt for a colourful pair!
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Accessories for Winter
Of course, cooler temperatures call for some additional gear to stay warm, comfortable and safe on the trails.
Footwear
For the winter season, you need sturdy and waterproof footwear to handle mud, rain or even frosty paths. Depending on your personal preferences you can either go for a pair of hiking shoes or hiking boots. The latter offers better stability thanks to the ankle collar and is ideal for hikers with weak ankles.
Socks
Having a great pair of hiking boots is a must for a hike but if it is to put poor quality socks in it, you spent all that money for nothing. Equally important as the shoes, hiking socks can make or break your hike. Opt for merino wool and avoid cotton socks at all costs. Cotton absorbs sweat but does not dry easily, leaving your feet wet and cold and creating the perfect environment for blisters to appear. If it is really cold outside, wear 2 pairs of socks to keep your toes happy.
Beanie
In summer you need to protect your head from the sun, in winter you need to cover your extremities to prevent the heat from leaving your body. And that includes your head! For that, wear a beanie which not only covers the top of your head but your ears as well. A beanie is a cool accessory to add to your hiking outfit. Opt for a funky colour or a pompom to glamourise your attire.
Neck Gaiter
Hiking in winter can be a lot of fun, but catching a cold? Not that much. Avoid bad aftermath by wearing a neck gaiter. You can opt for a nice BUFF or something a bit warmer for the cold temperature. It is definitely not the sexiest of the accessories for a hiking date, but cough and running nose are definitely not a great look either.
Gloves
This is a must when hiking in winter. Whether it snows or not. As mentioned above, you need to protect your extremities to stay warm when hiking in winter. Your hands are one of the body extremities, alongside with foot and head. Should the weatherman forecasts some low temperatures, add a layer of silk gloves underneath your waterproof hiking gloves. This little trick will help you keep warm for longer.
Hand Warmer
This might be a bit fancy but it can make the whole difference on a cold day hiking date, especially if you are hoping to hold his hand. Forget the cold hand feeling by sliding this little device into your outer shell pockets. You can charge them at home, and with one click, you get instant warmth in the palm of your hands. Clever, isn’t it?
Headlamp
As days are shorter in the wintertime, you might end the walk after sundown. Make sure you don’t lose sight of your date and safely find your way home by packing a fully charged headlamp. Avoid bringing a torch as they are heavy and bulky. A headlamp is easier and lighter to carry and will allow you to remain hand free when walking.
Gaiters
Mud, mud, mud … This is the most dreadful part of hiking during the rainy seasons, whether it is autumn or winter. But it does not have to be a deal breaker! Gear up with a pair of gaiters to add an additional layer of protection on top of your hiking boots. Gaiters are also great as they protect the bottom of your hiking trousers so that they last longer. Gaiters are a very cheap investment which makes the whole difference.
Leave winter behind and move on to the midseasons: Spring and Autumn.
What to Wear on a Hiking Date – Midseasons
A lot of people always say that there are no seasons in the UK – it is grey and rainy all year long! Well, it is not really the case, however, Spring and Autumn weather and temperatures might not differ that much so you could wear the same outfit for your hiking date. So let’s get 2 seasons in 2 looks.
Look 1 – Down Jacket and Leggings
When to wear this look?
When it is still cold outside with some wind and some showers but no downpours. An insulated jacket, especially if filled with down feathers as opposed to synthetic ones, is great to keep you warm but when it gets wet, does not dry easily.
Base Layer
Keep your skin dry with a merino wool long-sleeve base layer. The moisture-wicking fabric absorbs the sweat from your skin and dries quickly so you never get this sensation of a cold and wet shirt on your skin. Perfect for a hiking date to stay fresh when exercising.
Down Jacket
Complete the look with a down jacket, also called an insulated jacket, to trap the warmth close to your body. This way you remain toasty all day long when adventuring in the great outdoors.
Leggings
With a puffy jacket on top, we mix things up with a tight bottom. This is why wearing a pair of leggings will look much better than hiking trousers in this case. You can also add some colour to the look. If your down jacket is in a dark colour, opt for a bright one for your leggings, and vice versa.
Footwear
During Spring and Autumn opt for either hiking boots or hiking shoes based on your preferences. Hiking boots are sturdier and heavier so they might end up being a burden on a long trail. However, they are highly waterproof. Hiking shoes are lighter so perfect for long distances. They offer less protection against the rain but they are more breathable so the water can evaporate. Avoid trainers as paths get muddy in these seasons and they do not offer the level of grip you need to allow you to walk safely on mud. Who wants to slip in the mud on their first date?
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Look 2 – Softshell and Trousers
When to wear this look?
When the temperatures are mild, the sun is out or when it is raining. A softshell offers weather protection against wind and rain however it is not insulated.
Fleece
On top of your base layer (mandatory), wear a fleece. This will keep you warm as your outer shell is not insulated. You can opt for a fleece with a bright colour so that should the weather be nice, you can take off the softshell and walk in your fleece.
Trousers
If you are not the leggings type, opt for hiking trousers. You can find lightweight walking trousers that are stretched so that you don’t have this uncomfortable feeling of chafing. They are made of synthetic fabrics that can resist what nature throws at you on the trail. Comfortable to wear and close enough to the body to look flattering without being too revealing, they are the perfect in-between for a first hiking date.
Softshell
Brighten your outfit with a colourful outer shell. A softshell is light and packable so perfect to take on and off when walking should the weather change throughout the day. It is the perfect option for weather protection without looking bulky and unappealing.
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Accessories for mid-season
So what could you wear to accessorise these outfits?
Rain Jacket
The rain is never too far and even if the weatherman is not forecasting any, always carry a rain jacket with you. Lightweight and packable, it won’t add any weight to your backpack but will make the whole difference should the heavens open. And why not wear a bright colourful rain jacket?
Ear Warmer
If you feel a beanie is too much for the season, here is a cool option: an ear warmer. They cover your ears which are really sensitive to cold and wind, so that you can keep warm, but still allow you to show off your hair that you can style in a ponytail for example. This is the perfect option to remain cosy and stylish at the same time.
Neck Cover
Even if it is warmer during spring and autumn times, don’t forget to take a neck cover with you. If the hike takes you up hills and beacons, it can get really windy at the top so a nice neck cover will keep you warm and prevent you from catching a cold.
This is it for the outfits to wear on a hiking date, but continue reading for more information about hiking gear, so that you are all set for the big day!
What Gear to Take with you on a Hiking Date
So now we covered the outfit, let’s take a closer look at the gear. Whilst wearing the correct outfit for the occasion is important, packing hiking essentials is equally as crucial to make this day out a great memory worth remembering.
Backpack
That is basic. But which one to choose?
Well, if you are going on a hike for the first time you might not want to invest too much money in it. If you are more experienced, you might already own one anyway (or even more than one).
The backpack’s weight should not be on your shoulders but on your hips. However, many so-called “outdoors” fashionable backpacks come with no hip straps. Ouch! You are in for a day of suffering. As simple or cheap as you want your pack to be for a hiking date, pick a model that comes with hip straps.
The Californian label Osprey is a go-to brand when it comes to backpacks. They have built a reputation for quality and durability packs which makes it the favourite brand among hikers. And they have exactly what you need for a hiking date: a backpack designed specifically for women! The Osprey Skimmer comes in 3 different sizes but for a day hike, opt for the 28L one. To learn more about the Osprey Skimmer backpack, click here.
Hydration System
Most hiking backpacks come with a reservoir sleeve where you can slide your hiking bladder and they have hooks on the shoulder straps to maintain the hose in place. Hiking bladders are great especially if you are going on a long hike as they can hold up to 3 L of water and you can drink on the go. Now if that sounds too complex for you, and you prefer to carry a bottle of water, make sure your backpack has stretched outside pockets to hold the bottle in place. This way it is easier for you to reach out for the bottle without having to stop and open your bag each time you want to take a sip.
Find which hydration system is right for you here.
Snacks and Packed Lunch
Now we covered drinking, let’s look at what to eat. When hiking you are burning carbohydrates which is where the energy comes from. So of course as your body’s levels of carbohydrates deplete, you need to fuel up.
What kind of snacks is great for a day hike?
- Energy balls
- Cereal bars
- Trail mix
- Dried fruits
- Fresh fruits (no bananas as they can squash in your backpack)
- Energy gels
- Nuts
What’s for lunch?
Same as for the snacks you need a lunch that is nutritive and jammed packed with carbohydrates to keep you going in the afternoon. Based on the season you might want to opt for cold lunch such as a sandwich or a warm meal such as a curry or a stew. Yes, you can carry a warm meal on the trail in an insulated food jar to keep your food warm for up to 9 hours.
f you are looking for hiking lunch ideas why not check out my summer recipes and some awesome and tasty hot meal recipes perfect for the trails?
Sitting Mat
This is the accessory that divides the pro from the casual hikers. A first-time hiker takes off their jacket and sits on it for lunch whilst feeling cold. The pro unfolds a sitting mat and keeps their clothes on. Stay at the top of your game even when lunchtime comes, and pack a sitting mat, or two (one for him of course). This little lightweight device will keep your buttocks off the cold ground and prevent you from having this unflattering wet stain on your trousers when you stand up.
Hiking Poles
These are optional. It really depends on the trails and the terrain. If you know there will be some ascent and descent during the hike, then hiking poles become really handy. As they take the pressure off your knees, you can keep going for longer without feeling tired.
First Aid Kit
This is part of the hiking essentials and you MUST carry one. From plasters, pain reliefs, antihistamines and bug spray to SAM splints, irrigation syringes, prescribed medication and rehydration tablets, they are so many things to think of when packing your kit. To help you, check my First Aid Kit packing list and useful tips here.
It’s great to know what to pack for a hiking date. But to make sure you are all prepared, here are some tips on what not to wear.
What Not to Wear On a Hiking Date
It’s common sense! Well, common sense is not that common they say. So to make sure we get it right for your outdoorsy date, let’s look at the No No.
Footwear
Leave the fashionable shoes at home. No nice suede ankle boots, heels, beach sandals or non-grip trainers. You must protect your feet at all costs to make this hiking date an enjoyable moment. Opt only for one of the following options
- Trail runners
- Hiking Shoes
- Hiking Boots
- Trainers if the path is paved
That’s it!
Fabrics
NO COTTON!
No cotton socks, cotton t-shirts or lightweight cotton trousers. Cotton is a moisture-wicking fabric which does not dry easily meaning you will feel cold and wet for the rest of the day.
And guess what is made of cotton?
Denim of course!
This is another one to leave in your closet. Denim doesn’t dry easily (if you do the laundry at home you know that already) and the fabric rubs against your skin. Chafing is not a nice feeling when walking, so stick to hiking trousers and shorts to be comfortable all day on the trails.
Jewellery
Avoid wearing jewellery when hiking: if you lose it you won’t find it!
Earrings: If you want to wear a pair of earrings to accessorise your outfit, opt for a pair of simple studs. Don’t wear long earrings or loops as they could get caught up in branches and you could hurt yourself.
Necklace: If you wear a chain that you can’t live without, just tucked it inside your base layer so that it does not get in the way when you take layers off as you are walking.
Ring: Rings with prominent stones or ornaments can easily get caught in vegetation or damaged when opening and closing gates or climbing stiles. Keep it simple with a plain ring.
Bracelet: Avoid big chains with embellishments which not only could get caught in branches but would equally get in the way when taking layers on and off.
Makeup
There is a debate here.
Makeup or no makeup?
Here are a few situations where you want to avoid wearing anything on your face:
- It is summertime and hot outside: You will be sweating and your make-up will melt on your face
- It is pouring rain: The rain will wash out your makeup and you will end up with mascara tears. To avoid this horror movie look, choose to wear waterproof cosmetics if you really insist on wearing makeup.
- It is a strenuous trail: Sweat and tears of joy when you get to the top will mess up your contouring and smoky eyes 😉
Have a lovely hiking date!
Final Thoughts on What to Wear on a Hiking Date
So we know going hiking for a date is fun. We know what to wear for every season and every weather on a hiking date. We know what not to wear to avoid discomfort and awkward situations. Now, the only thing left to do is to take this outfit on a romantic walk around London!
And you, what would you wear on a hiking date? Let me know in the comments below.
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