Exactly What to Wear Hiking in Fall To Stay Warm and Cozy
The key to what to wear hiking in fall is layers, layers, and more layers! Depending on where you live fall can look a bit different but either way, it is important to be able to peel away layers as you build up heat on your hike rather than wishing you had brought more layers!
There is nothing quite like walking through colorful crunchy leaves and enjoying the crisp mountain air that autumn brings. Don’t ruin the fun by being dressed wrong!
This post will share exactly what you should wear during those crisp fall hiking days to ensure you stay comfortable and cozy.
We will also share cute fall hiking outfit ideas if you are going on a fall hiking date or taking fall family photos on your hike!
This post is all about fall hiking clothes for your next outdoor adventures.
Comfy Fall Outfit Hiking Ideas
1. Moisture-wicking base layer
Like I mentioned before, the key to dressing for a fall hike is plenty of layers so that you can adjust your outfit through the changing temperatures!
Start your fall hiking outfit off by wearing a light weight long sleeve shirt. Even better if you can wear a moisture-wicking shirt.
Although it is chilly out you will probably still be working up a sweat so having a fabric to absorb that will ensure you stay comfortable.
2. Cozy insulating mid-layer
Now for the cozy part! This is where you can throw on an oversized sweatshirt, fleece, down jacket, or fuzzy sweater.
This will keep you warm especially as the temperatures drop in the early morning or evening.
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3. Raincoat or windbreaker just in case
This layer isn’t completely necessary but it is nice to have. Pack an extra lightweight water-resistant outer layer or rain jacket in case there are short showers or wind.
Again, fall isn’t really known for rain but you never know! It is always better to be overprepared while in the outdoors rather than underprepared.
4. Hiking pants to protect your legs
The hiking pants you choose will be completely dependent on the type of hike you are going on. If it is a short family hike to simply enjoy the colorful leaves you can wear jeans or even a long skirt (with tights underneath!).
If you are going on a more intense hike (over a couple hours) it is best to suit up properly. Go for water-resistant durable hiking pants. Make sure they are big enough that you can comfortably move around but still keep you warm.
I know they’re slightly dorky but the convertible (or zip-off) pants are perfect for fall weather! When you start your hike you may be chilly but as you go you can zip off the calf part as the temperature fluctuates.
5. Stretchy durable leggings
If you don’t feel like wearing baggy pants and you want to be able to comfortably move, go for a pair of leggings.
I love pairing colorful leggings in fall colors with a neutral top or jacket.
6. Corduroy pants
Brown corduroy pants just scream fall!
Since they are thick and similar to jeans they may not be your best option for a long fall hike but they are super cute and pair perfectly with flannels for shorter hikes!
7. Thick socks to keep your feet dry
No one wants to get a blister on a hike. Keeping your feet protected and comfortable is the most important part of a comfy fall hiking outfit!
Make sure you wear socks that come about mid-calf (or at least over your ankles) to ensure no bugs or sticks go up your pants.
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8. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots to protect your feet
On summer hikes you may be able to get away with flip flops but not with fall hikes.
Personally, I love Keens and if the hike isn’t too long and it is not too chilly I would highly recommend picking up a pair. Yes, I will wear thick socks with them. It looks silly but it is incredibly comfortable. They are breathable but still keep you cozy.
Mostly likely though, you will want to invest in a quality pair of hiking boots. Be sure to break them in before you start hiking! A good pair of hiking boots will have ankle support to keep you stable.
Most importantly check the grip (also called tread) on the buttom of your shoes. This is what will help keep you safe on slippery mud, rocks, or slick leaves. This is also why you should opt for hiking boots rather than your regular tennis shoes!
9. Warm hat and gloves
I love to throw a pair of lightweight gloves in my bag and a warm hat. Maybe not necessary on all fall hikes but they can be nice to have.
If you are hiking with a walking stick gloves can keep your hands from slipping on your poles!
10. A vest if it is not too chilly
A puffy vest is the perfect middle ground between a thick jacket and hiking in a simple long-sleeved shirt. It allows your arms to move around freely but still keeps you cozy.
If you don’t want to feel trapped by a big jacket or carry one around, opt for a vest.
11. Sunglasses and sunscreen to protect your face and eyes
Even though summer has passed, those UV rays are still there!
Keep your face and eyes protected by throwing some sunscreen on your face (don’t forget your ears and hands!) and sunglasses for your eyes.
12. A hydration vest or water bottle that clips to your pants
Although in the fall you may not be sweating like you would on a summer hike your body will be getting dehydrated!
I love having a water source strapped to by body while hiking to ensure I stay hydrated!
13. Soft flannel
You can’t go wrong with a soft flannel in fall colors! If you are going on a short hike or walk a flannel over a long sleeve may just be enough.
You can always tie it around your waste if you get overheated!
14. A cozy poncho to stay warm
Enjoying the outdoors while wearing a blanket? Yes please!
You will for sure want to wear layers under your poncho but getting to be wrapped up while you enjoy natures beauty is seriously the best way to go for a casual fall hike or sight seeing.
15. A jean jacket for a classic look
You really can’t go wrong with a classic jean jacket. I love pairing them with a thick cozy sweater underneath.
This combo will definitely keep you warm just a warning that you may end up needing to put your denim jacket in your backpack.
Fall weather hiking
By layering, you can easily switch up your outfit to stay comfortable as the weather changes throughout your hike! It is of course all up to personal preference but I am always so glad to have extra layers when hiking in cold weather.
I hope these fall hiking outfit ideas gave you plenty of inspiration to keep you cozy and looking cute! Stay safe and happy hiking!
Have any other fall hiking outfit ideas? Let us know in the comments below! I’m sure others in the community would love to learn from you as well.
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Stay well,
Maggie
This post was all about what to wear hiking in fall.
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