The Best Chic High-Performance Hiking Gear Right Now

Wondering what to wear for your next hike? Our correspondent Jillian Tangen has curated a list of the best chic high-performance hiking gear right now.

what to wear for your next hike

There’s no doubt about it.  Hiking is having a moment.  In fact, it just might be the new yoga.  And like yoga, hiking requires the proper attire to truly enjoy it.  Anyone who has tried a downward dog in an oversized t-shirt understands this. 

So what do you need for a proper hike?  Most people believe that you don’t need more than a comfortable pair of shoes and a trail.  While that may be true for the first few miles, for all day trips or more you will need to invest in the right gear.  So while sporting that crop top and leggings set may look good for the ‘gram, it’s always a better idea to prioritize function over form. 

Fortunately this no longer means wearing frumpy khaki style pants and oversized camp shirts because some of our favorite athletic and outdoor brands have started making female friendly hiking apparel that is not only comfortable, but dare we say fashionable too. 

Which is great news, because we all know that when we feel good in what we are wearing, we are more likely to get there and enjoy our workout even more.  So to help you get motivated and out on the trails we thought we would do a roundup of some of the cutest and most practical hiking looks in the stores right now. 

the best chic high-performance hiking gear right now

From the right tops, bottoms, boots and even backpacks and extra layers, here are the most stylish and smartest essentials to keep you comfortable and chic on the trail this season:

1. tops.

Invest in polyester, nylon or merino wool tops in lieu of cotton.  Unilike cotton, these materials move sweat off skin and dry fast which reduces any chances of hypothermia.  The Athleta Vapor Tee ($49) is breathable and ultralight weight, as is the Outdoor Voices CloudKnit Tee ($55).  Both come in basic color options, making them easy additions beyond hiking to your wardrobe. 

Another great choice is Norrona’s Bitihorn Wool T-shirt ($70).  Since it is made of wool, it can help to regulate your body temperature and will have odor and bacteria resistant properties.  For cooler days or for more SPF protection, there is the Arc’Teryx Kadem Top ($85) that wicks moisture, dries quickly and can easily be layered thanks to its slim fit.

2. bottoms.

Trails have twists and turns, so you need to be able to move freely.  As tempting as yoga pants are, they don’t make for great hiking pants because branches and boulders can easily shred thin, stretchy leggings.  For hot days you can opt for Athleta’s Trekkie Shorts ($59) or Bergens of Norway’s Cecilie Climbing Shorts ($70).  Both are long enough to ensure coverage and comfort, yet also have a more fitted and feminine look. 

For long pants (and extra mosquito protection), we like Outdoor Voices RecTrek Pant ($80).  They are made of nylon and elastane so they have a comfortable stretch to them, while the slight crop gives them a feminine touch.  If you really want a legging look, we suggest Fjallraven’s new Abisko Trail Tights ($150) that are light for fast paced trail days yet durable enough to stand up to anything that might brush against them. 

3. layers.

Longer trips require layers – be it for chilly mornings, sunset finishes or for unexpected rainy or cold conditions.  The North Face Mountain Sweatshirt Pullover ($120) will help keep you warm as you start out on your early morning adventure, while the Trollvann Anorak from Helly Hansen ($200) will keep you dry if a sudden rain falls. 

For colder conditions or for trips that last overnight we like Haglofs Essens Mimic Hood Women ($225) that can be easily rolled up and packed away as the sun warms you in the morning.  If you plan to be out walking after dark we like the Jack Wolfskin Exolight Mountain Jacket ($450) that offers reflectors and a weather-proof shell.

4. hats.

A hat is great for keeping your head dry and protected from the sun.  A wide brim will also help to keep the rain out of your face too.  Too often people think only about their eyes and forget their neck, which is also susceptible to sunburn.  Buff Originals ($20) are great for keeping the sun off your neck, wiping sweat or pulling over your hair into a makeshift headband.  Plus, the wide range of fun colors and patterns allow you to really personalize your look. 

Pair it with a 66 North Logn Cap ($28) so both your neck and face are protected.  For full coverage options we like The North Face Brimmer Hat ($35) and the Patagonia Hike Hat ($39).  Both offer a classic hiking look and ensure complete sun protection in the front of your face and on your neck and ears.

5. footwear.

The most important part of hiking is having something comfortable on your feet, and nothing beats a good pair of hiking boots.  You don’t necessarily have to have leather boots, but your footwear should provide support, protection from rocks and roots and traction on both wet and dry surfaces. It helps to start with a good base on your foot like breathable socks like Bombas Hiking Socks ($18).  Most experts suggest carrying multiple pairs with you while you are out to ensure your feet stay dry the whole trip. 

When it comes to boots there are lots of options.  For those who prefer a sneaker style to boot there is the Merrell Women’s Choprock ($120) which is promises to dry out fast while protecting your feet from the elements.  Lots of experienced hikers like the expert cushioning of Keen’s shoes.  The Keen Revel III ($159.95) is a traditional boot that will ensure you have minimal blisters and discomfort during your trek.  For a hybrid boot/sneaker we like the look of Helly Hansen’s Vanir Gallivant ($170) which offers great traction and is also waterproof so your feet stay dry through the entire journey.

6. backpack.

Last but not least, hiking requires a good backpack.  You need one that is big enough to hold your extra layers and socks as well as the other essentials like water and snacks.  Comfort is first and foremost since you will be carrying it as long as you are out walking.  Fortunately many brands have started offering their own women’s backpacks which feature smaller frames than the traditional styles and sizes and which are lighter in weight. 

Before we get to the backpacks, we couldn’t resist this cute Patagonia Lightweight Travel Mini Hip Pack ($29) that you can wear on your waist or over your shoulder to keep things like your phone or trail map right at hands reach to limit stops.  When not in use you can stuff it into your pocket. 

Another great bag to have on hand is the super lightweight REI Flash Pack 18 ($39.95).  Not only does it pack up tightly, but it expands to nearly twice its size, giving you room for snacks, sunscreen, a camera and more.  For more intensive hikes you could opt for The North Face Women’s Hydra 38 Backpack ($170) with a hydration sleeve and trampoline back panel for breathability and comfort.  In addition to being made to fit a woman’s body, it clocks in at only 2lbs. 

For something even more heavy duty, there is Fjallraven’s Bergtagen 38 Backpack ($240).  It comes in multiple sizes so you can find the right fit for you and it features a removable frame so that you can have a more supportive pack for long approaches and a lighter, more flexible one for technical treks and summit attempts.

chic high-performance hiking gear

There you have it, our top picks for hiking essentials that are not only practical but stylish too.  Now you know what to wear on your next hike! We don’t know about you, but this list almost has this city girl ready to hit the trails running, er, walking we mean.  Happy trails!

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Jillian Tangen is the Head of Research at Dandelion Chandelier. Formerly, she was a Senior Research Analyst at McKinsey & Co and Analyst at Shearman & Sterling. She is an avid fan of Nordic design, having owned an independent lifestyle store and sales agency focused on emerging Scandinavian design. Jillian lives in NYC and is married with three young children. She loves cross country skiing, the New York Rangers, reading, travel and discovering new brands.

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