What to wear on outdoor trips – dress smarter with Columbia Sportswear

Anyone who’s in their element exploring the great outdoors knows that braving the elements brings challenges. As for the solution, an old adage, attributed to esteemed walker and author Alfred Wainwright, rings true. “There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing”. In short, wearing the right gear will gear you up for more rewarding outdoor experiences, whatever the weather, as revealed below. From warm-weather hiking garb, to Columbia outdoor technologies’ NASA-inspired winterwear, this will have you enjoying outdoor trips to the moon and back.

What to wear on outdoor trips: the essentials

Before covering what to wear for a couple of key outdoor activities (winter sports and summer hikes), here’s an all-season overview:

• Layer up. Whether you need to stay warm, cool or dry, layering provides flexibility. That means flexibility of movement, and having flexibility as conditions change. The base layer should manage sweat, the mid layer is there for warmth, and the outer layer needs to shield wind and rain.
• Feet first. Choosing the right shoes and socks determines whether you’ll reach your metaphoric finish line or are forced to turn back. Moreover, consideration of terrain, temperature and fit is crucial when it comes to footwear.
• Smart accessorizing. By no means secondary, small accessories have a big impact on outdoor trips. For example, selecting the right hat, gloves, sunglasses and bag makes all the difference.
• Invest in the best. To reap lasting rewards, don’t cut corners. Invest in durable sportswear that’ll enhance outdoor trips for years. For example, with 85 years of engineering innovation under their belt, Columbia outdoor technologies products have never let us down. They’re super-durable, with options to support explorers in every context, from ski slopes and nature trails, to urban environments.

Wise up on winter sportswear

Being wise about winter sportswear involves tackling two issues. Firstly, staying warm without trapping sweat. Secondly, staying shielded from wind, rain and snow. To do that, materials matter. Your winterwear needs to be warm, waterproof and breathable, from thermal base layer through to insulating outerwear.

When choosing winter sportswear, it’s also crucial to consider the exact nature of your outdoor activities, and the exact conditions. How long will you spend outdoors? How cold will it be? How wet might you get? How extreme will you go?

For example, skiers and snowboarders wanting maximum protection and comfort in tougher conditions could consider Columbia’s Omni-Heat™ Infinity range. Engineered for extended exposure to extreme cold, these trailblazing solar-heat-trapping garments were inspired by NASA’s space blankets. Thanks to the distinctive gold-dot design, textile technology has never been more beneficial to outdoor adventurers, or more stylish.

Beat the heat with the best summer hiking gear

Summer hikes have a special magic. Think long daylight hours, lighter breezes, and warm weather that allows outdoor explorers to ditch bulky sportswear. That said, to maximise comfort and mitigate seasonal hazards, use the head-to-toe attire tips shared below.

• Upper body: choose shirts made from lightweight breathable fabrics that draw moisture from the skin. Garments with mesh panels, venting and UV protection are better still, as delivered by Columbia omni-shade range. Packing an ultralight waterproof jacket is also advisable: you never know when summer showers will strike.
• Lower body: look for lightweight fabrics with moisture-wicking technology, and consider freedom of movement. Trousers that convert to shorts hit this summertime sweet spot.
• Footwear: while you’ll need breathable footwear to prevent overheating, picking the right type depends on the terrain and conditions. For example, rocky terrain requires boots with stiffer soles. Hitting trails for longer? You’ll need more ankle support, so go for mid- or high-cut hiking boots paired with sweat-reducing moisture-wicking socks. Meanwhile, light low-cut walking shoes with flexible soles are perfect for flatter dry terrain.
• Head: it goes without saying that a cap or wide-brim hat is essential for sun protection. Planning to walk on wilder sides? We rate wide-brimmed booney hats that boast net face covers, and insect shields inspired by botanical science.

Elevate urban exploration through multipurpose attire 

While time of year and location are key, urban explorers should pack with versatility in mind. Think clothing that’ll take you from covering ground in museums and between sights, to after-dark restaurant outings. Select smart streetwear that works hard while you play, and can withstand rainstorms, coffee stains and cobblestones alike.

A handy way to frame this is to dress like a minimalist outdoor explorer who’ll be ready to roam in most environments. Come prepared with multipurpose pieces that can be adapted to changing conditions, whether that’s the weather or your plans.

Consider footwear first. You’ll most likely want cushioned trainers or boots with grip for wet pavements and urban green spaces. Although base and mid-layers will depend on the weather, always think light, think breathable, and think flexible. Lastly, always pack a thin layer to cope with extreme museum air-conditioning, and be sure to carry a waterproof shell.

In summary, let’s hear it for suitable clothing that means bad weather need never hamper outdoor adventuring in any context.