Outdoor Clothing

Outdoor Apparel

The right clothing can make the difference between a day well spent and a day spent in misery. Believe it or not, knowing how to dress for your adventure is key in enjoying whatever activity you’re partaking in. From the right layers for a backpacking trip to the best UV protected clothing for a kayaking adventure, outdoor clothing is as important as any other piece of gear you buy for an excursion. We’ve broken down outdoor clothing into a few key categories below.

An outdoor jacket acts as a final barrier between you and the elements. Generally, you’ll find four key categories of outdoor jackets to choose from:

  • Insulated- Best for colder conditions.
  • Packable- Good for variable conditions and backpackers.
  • Waterproof- Great for unpredictable conditions or wet conditions.
  • Moisture-wicking- Great for active endeavors in warm conditions.

The outdoor jacket you choose depends on what you tend to do outside. We’ve reviewed each type of jacket to glean the best.

The right pants can go a long way in making for a comfortable day outdoors. Think they’re like any other type of pants? Think again. Outdoor/hiking pants are specifically designed to withstand the elements. Generally, you can find five key categories of outdoor pant:

  • UV/Sun Protective Fabric
  • Quick Drying/ Moisture Wicking
  • Convertible
  • Insect Repellent
  • Packable

Some pants even transcend categories to include features from each. It isn’t uncommon to find hiking pants that are UV protected and packable or quick-drying and convertible.

Much like outdoor pants, outdoor shirts are designed to protect you from the elements. They come in a variety of sleeve-lengths and tend to be made from fabrics that can up your outdoor experience. Find the key reviewed categories of outdoor shirts below:

  • Moisture-wicking/quick drying
  • UV protected
  • Thumbholes
  • Reflective
  • Compression
  • Insect repellent

Unlike regular shirts, outdoor shirts pull double and sometimes triple-duty in keeping you comfortable.

Shorts not designed for hiking/outdoor use can get rather annoying quite quickly. They ride up, fail to wick moisture, and can generally be a pain. Outdoor shorts are designed with the comfort of outdoor enthusiasts in mind. They come in a few key categories and lengths:

  • Quick-Drying/Moisture Wicking
  • UV protected
  • Cargo pockets
  • Lined/Unlined
  • Compression
  • Insect Repelling

While these shorts can also be worn for casual use, we’ve reviewed all of the best hiking shorts for the trail.

Vests are a great outer layer when climate conditions are variable. They are a great way to maintain core warmth without compromising mobility. Generally, you’ll find vests in three key categories:

  • Insulated
  • Packable
  • Quick-Drying

A great outdoor vest can prove an effective barrier against the elements. We’ve taken the time to review the best of the best.

Outdoor accessories can make for a more comfortable endeavor. Accessories for hiking and outdoor adventures include:

  • Hats
  • Socks
  • Gloves
  • Gaiters
  • Bandanas

What you need depends on what you’re doing outside. For example, a summer day hike would definitely require a hat or bandana along with the right moisture-wicking socks.

Getting the Right Outdoor Clothing

Finding the correct outdoor clothing means knowing what could take your adventure from basic to extraordinary. The right clothing can definitely allow you to up your comfort and make the most of your day outside.