The Ultimate Summer Hiking Gear Guide: What to Wear to Beat the Heat

The standout here is the mesh panelling placed exactly where you need an extra blast of airflow. Add a lightweight stretch fit for easy movement, and you've got a top perfect for hot, hill-walking days. 

 

Craghoppers Mens NosiLife SolarShield+ Short Sleeve T-Shirt

If you’re after something with sun protection also built straight in, this Craghoppers t-shirt comes in SolarShield+ fabric for UPF50+. It also has the NosiLife treatment to keep the bugs away, plus odour elimination technology.

 

Dare 2b Womens Nimble Lightweight Short Sleeve T-Shirt

With this ladies hiking t-shirt, you get a soft breathable lightweight fabric, odour control treatment, plus quick-dry comfort. It's a great choice for active, warm-weather walks.

 

Trespass Womens Claudette Duoskin Sports Short Sleeve T-Shirt

Then Trespass brings advanced Duoskin technology to this breathable t-shirt for women, meaning that moisture is wicked away from your body to keep you cool and comfy on the trails. 

 

2. Lightweight Walking Shorts & Trousers

Shorts are the obvious choice once the sun's out. And as we discussed in our coastal walking guide, we always suggest investing in proper walking shorts, rather than relying on your usual jogger shorts or boardshorts, as the features are designed specifically for active use. 

For example:

 

Regatta Womens Pentre Lite Shorts

Here, you've got UPF50+ protection, quick-dry fabrics, and lightweight construction, all with stretch fabric and a part elasticated waist for a great fit.

If your summer hiking routes involve a lot of climbing and active movement, these shorts are a great match!

 

Dare 2b Mens Tuned In II Walking Shorts

For the gents, Dare 2b has packed a lot of clever tech into their walking shorts, giving you superb UPF 50+ sun protection and a comfortable stretch fabric that moves naturally with your stride.

It's also worth mentioning the commercial-grade abrasion-resistant fabric that helps keep them looking smart.

 

However, if you'd still prefer to go with a pair of walking trousers or leggings, then you've got lots to choose from in our full collection below:

 

 

3. Footwear: Walking Sandals or Shoes

Next, choosing what to wear on a hike down on your feet usually comes down to your specific trail. 

Often, for hiking on a hot day, you'll usually be choosing between the following:

• Walking Sandals: If your route follows established, dry paths or involves crossing shallow streams where you want to paddle, sandals are unmatched for airflow. 
• Walking Shoes: For more technical trails, a lightweight walking shoe provides extra toe protection and ankle support while keeping your feet ventilated.

 

Teva Womens Hydratrek Vegan Sandals

If you're keen to go for some sandals, we've put together a full guide on Teva walking sandals (like those pictured above) that gives you the low-down on which styles suit which style of walking, and any eagle-eye shoppers amongst you will also have spotted some fantastic Regatta walking sandals recently highlighted in our Sale top picks! 

And for those who prefer a walking shoe, you may have heard of Xero barefoot shoes taking the outdoor clothing world by storm recently, and they're a great choice for summer walks. 

All Xero shoes have:

• A wider, foot-shaped toe box that allows your toes to spread and relax
• A non-elevated 'zero drop' heel to help with proper posture
• Low-to-the-ground design to give you great balance and agility
• A flexible sole for 'just right' protection, meaning you can bend, move, flex, and, as the brand themselves puts it, Live Life Feet First

 Two options (one for women, one for men) are highlighted below:

 

Xero Womens Mesa Trail II Walking Shoes

Xero Mens Mesa Trail Waterproof Walking Shoes

Alongside our Xero collection, we stock a variety of footwear to suit every walker, including walking shoes, boots, and sandals from brands like ECCO and Regatta. You have plenty of options to find the perfect fit for your summer adventures!

 

 

Walking Socks

Top Tip: Pair your shoes with dedicated walking socks to add essential comfort and support.

Something like the Craghoppers NosiLife Adventure Crew Socks: they feature mesh venting over the foot and targeted cushioning in the heel and toe to stop blisters forming.

 

4. Hiking Hat

Finally, you've got to consider your accessories, and the big three features to check for in a hiking hat are: 

1. UPF protection
2. Breathability
3. A fit that stays put when the wind picks up

A baseball cap covers most summer hikes, with a wide brim or bucket style as the alternative if you want your neck and ears covered too.

Some popular choices to take your pick from are:

 

Craghoppers NosiLife Multi Active II Baseball Cap

 A classic choice for summer hiking. It features insect-repellent fabric, odour-elimination tech, a rear cord adjuster, and a wicking, cooling inner headband to keep sweat out of your eyes.

 

Buff Adults Unisex R-Solid Reflective Baseball Cap

Perfect for high-intensity activities, this hiking cap wicks away moisture quickly and uses a behind-the-head elastic band for a precise fit.

 

Tilley LTM5 Airflo Slim Sun Hat

Tilley Hats are always summer ready! The LTM5 has UPF50+ sun protection, a Hydrofil® Sweatband, mesh material that helps with ventilation, and that wide brim that gives you a bit more neck protection than a baseball cap.

 

 

What to Take in Your Backpack on a Summer Hike

You may have noticed that the usual hiking clothes outer layer and mid layer are missing from our what to wear section. Of course, when it's warm weather, you will be unlikely to be piling on the fleeces and waterproofs, as you will simply get too hot and sweaty!

However, what any outdoor lover knows is that it pays to be prepared. So we would always recommend bringing some backpack backups, just in case.

 

Packable Waterproof Jacket & Trousers

Even on a hot day, the UK weather loves to surprise us.

Your walking outfit setup will always benefit from having waterproofs on hand, and a packable jacket and pair of trousers are just the trick because they fit neatly in your backpack without taking up too much space (or weight).

Brands like Regatta and Trespass do simple, on-the-go options, such as:

 

Trespass Qikpac Waterproof Packaway Jacket

This waterproof jacket packs down neatly into its own little pouch, measuring just 17.5cm long, so it takes up minimal space. It offers 5,000mm waterproofing for reliable protection if you ever need it, alongside fully elasticated cuffs and a hem that ensure a comfortable fit throughout your day on the trails.

 

Trespass Qikpac Packaway Waterproof Trousers

Same as the waterproof jacket, but this time with a pair of waterproof trousers. You've got the 5,000mm waterproof rating to keep you dry if it does rain, and they pack down small into a stuff sack that you can easily store in your bag as you walk.

 

 

Lightweight Fleece

A fleece for a summer hike? It might sound a little unnecessary, but, just as what we discussed with your waterproof layers, it can be handy to know that you've got an insurance policy for any unpredictable weather.

If you're heading right up into the hills or by the coast even, you might get spells of wind that cause a bit of a chill, or if we're on the cusp of saying goodbye to the summer season, you never know when things might suddenly turn.

However, equally, you don't want to fill your backpack with unnecessary items, so that's why Craghoppers has come up with the perfect solution.

These ultra-light Craghoppers fleeces (shown below) are designed to be packable, so you don't have to worry about them taking up too much space, and they also have a breathable, quick-drying fabric. So if you need warmth when you're out hiking, you've got it, but if you don't, then it can stay in your bag and not cause you any bother. Win, win!

 

Craghoppers Womens Compresslite

Craghoppers Mens Compresslite Half Zip Fleece

 

Reusable Water Bottles & Flasks

When hiking in the summer, you definitely need to make sure you take plenty of water with you. Investing in a sturdy reusable water bottle, like these from YETI and Stanley below, is a wise move for any outdoor lover, as you can make good use of it throughout all your adventures. 

 

YETI Rambler 18oz Bottle with Colour Match Straw Cap

 

Stanley IceFlow Flip Straw 2.0 Water Bottle (1.06L)

  

Trespass Hydration X Walking Cycling 2L Water Pack Bladder

Alternatively, you could opt for a water bladder, which is a great shout for longer days out or if you're going for a really active, uphill trail. This setup lets you sip your water as you walk, rather than stopping to grab a bottle from your backpack.

Trespass' 2-litre option is lightweight, fits into most hydration-compatible packs, and comes with a sealable tube to keep things clean and leak-free.

 

Although... just because it's warm outside doesn't mean you won't be gasping for a brew at the viewpoint! If you're anything like us, and enjoy taking in the scenery with a nice cuppa, you can also pick up a thermos flask to bring your tea or coffee with you on your hike. We'd recommend something like the:

 

Regatta Thermulate Vacuum Travel Flask (0.75L)

Hot Weather Hiking Essentials

With your walking outfit sorted, there are a few other bits worth packing to make sure your summer hike goes off without a hitch.

From keeping the sun off your skin to having enough fuel in the tank, these essentials will help you stay comfortable and safe out on the trail:

• Suncream & sunglasses: Pack a high-factor, sweat-resistant suncream and reapply through the day, plus a pair of sunglasses with UV protection
• On-the-go snacks: Apples, bags of crisps, cereal bars, and anything else that travels well and gives you a quick boost of energy
• Lightweight backpack: Something in the 15 to 25 litre range is usually plenty for a day hike, with room for your spare layers, water, and snacks without feeling heavy on your back

And if you're looking for a new walking backpack recommendation, we'd suggest something like the:

 

Regatta Highton V2 20L Walking Backpack

Specifically because it has a padded air mesh back panel that helps keep your back cool when you're walking. Great news when the temperature has crept up!

 

 

Hot Weather Hiking Safety Top Tips

Safety first, always! Hot weather adds a different set of risks to your hike, and a little extra care goes a long way.

Here are a few top tips to keep in mind before you head out:

• Try to avoid walking in the midday heat, as that's when the sun tends to be strongest. Head out early in the day or later in the afternoon
• Let someone know your planned route and rough timings before you set off, especially if you're heading somewhere remote or hiking alone
• Keep an eye out for the early signs of heat exhaustion, including headaches and a fast heartbeat, so you can act before things get more serious. If you start to feel dizzy, nauseous, or excessively hot, stop immediately. Find some shade, sip your water, eat a snack, and let your body recover before you move on
• And it's always better to have the below bits and pieces in your bag and not need them than wish you'd packed them: 

 

Adventure Medical SOL® Emergency Blanket

Adventure Medical AMK® Blister Medic

Quick Summary: Your Summer Hiking Outfit Checklist

Before you head off on your next summer hike, here's a quick checklist to make sure you've got everything you need:

• Technical hiking t-shirt
• Lightweight shorts/trousers
• Walking socks
• Walking footwear (usually sandals or shoes)
• Hiking hat
• Packable waterproof jacket (and overtrousers)
• Water bottle
• Sun protection

Stick to lightweight, breathable fabrics like synthetics or merino wool, paired with a hat, sunglasses, and proper walking footwear. Even on a sunny day, it's worth packing a packable waterproof jacket too, since UK weather can often change quickly.

Build your outfit from the categories we've listed above, and you'll be set for whatever the day brings. Just remember to take into consideration the temperature and whether it's safe to hike.  

 

Shop Summer Hiking Outfits at Avenue 85

And that's everything you need to make the most of your summer hikes!

With the right clothing, footwear, and a few essentials packed away, there's nothing left to do but pick a trail and get walking. If you still need to pick up a few bits of kit for your next adventure, you'll find everything mentioned in this guide in our full hiking clothes collection, plus lots more to choose from.