Hiking in the Heat? 3 Tips to Stay Safe This Summer

If you love to hike, chances are you already have a few—or several—hikes planned for the summer. Summer hiking can be incredibly rewarding. Many of your favorite trails may be lush with green trees. In some mountain regions, flowers are in full bloom. As snow melts, streams are full of clear, crisp water.

Summer hiking can also present challenges, including overexposure to the sun and increased temperatures. But you can be ready for hiking on those hot summer days. It might just be time to grab that mens long-sleeved sun hoodie or that womens sun shirt with cooling fabric you’ve been eyeing. From there, you can continue to enjoy your favorite trails and discover new ones, all while staying cool and comfortable.

Take a Layered Approach to Hiking Apparel

Before heading out on your next summer hike—especially on those hotter days—consider an “all day” kind of outfit. If you’re starting your hike at the break of dawn, it still might be chilly on the trail. An ultralight jacket can help ward off the chill without adding much carry weight to your pack once you want to shed this layer.

Under your lightweight jacket, you might wear a long-sleeved sun hoodie or a short-sleeved sun shirt. Search for a sun shirt made from protective and breathable materials. This layered combination can keep you warm on chilly mornings and keep you cool on sweltering afternoons.

You might also consider convertible pants or simply wearing shorts and using the morning chill as motivation to keep moving and warm up. Either way, with a variety of options to use throughout the day, you can remain comfortable on the trail as the sun beams down.

Pack Plenty of Water (and Water Filters as Backup)

Taking just water filters on a hike can be tempting. It’s an easy and effective way to lighten your load. However, unless you’re hiking in an area you know has plenty of water access, it can be a gamble. When the temperatures rise, there’s no need to take unnecessary risks.

This is one of the many reasons to pack in plenty of water. Whether you’re carrying your water in bottles or backpack-style water reservoirs, having reliable access to clean water can make a huge difference in your hiking experience. Consider the filter and other options, like purification tablets, your backup solutions that you bring along just in case.

Every step you take can mean lost hydration. Your body needs to be replenished. On top of that, don’t forget electrolytes. From powders to gummies, electrolytes can be essential for maintaining hydration, as well as optimal muscle function.

Protect Yourself From the Sun

It’s easy to underestimate the power of the sun, especially early in the summer season. You may be hiking through a densely forested area, but the sun’s harsh rays can still leave their mark. Even cloud cover can contribute to a false sense of security.

No matter where your hikes take you this summer, be ready for more time in the sun with effective sun protection. This can include wearing a sun shirt made with ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) built in, along with pants or shorts and a hat made with a similar material.

Sunglasses can be another essential piece of gear. When you’re spending several hours in the sun, UV rays can take their toll on your eyes, just like they can on your skin. It also goes without saying: apply sunscreen before your hike and reapply along the way. The longer the hike, the more times you may need to reapply.

About Outdoor Research

Your next adventure starts at Outdoor Research. This iconic brand makes comfortable, high-quality gear to match your lifestyle, no matter how you like to spend time outdoors. Whether you love long technical hikes, powering down trails on your mountain bike, or simply enjoying an afternoon in the wilderness, you can find gear designed to keep up with your every move. Discover hiking gaiters built for treks through dewy forests and rocky terrain. Or find durable, breathable sun shirt options with built-in UPF protection for your next sun-drenched excursion. Outdoor Research has apparel for all your needs and any conditions. Explore exceptionally lightweight and packable options alongside products that prioritize rugged durability. No matter what your next adventure holds, Outdoor Research has you covered.

Beat the summer heat on the trail with versatile apparel from https://www.outdoorresearch.com/

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