The Top 12 Backpacking Apparel Essentials for the Year Ahead

With new adventures on the horizon in the upcoming year, it’s never too early to start prepping your backpacking gear checklist. These lists can be rather extensive, especially if you’re doing an overnighter for the first time or planning a long thru-hike. Start by gathering a collection of outdoor apparel that you’ll need to be ready for any conditions.

Plan Ahead for Success

Backpacking requires careful preparation, and starting early ensures you have all the essentials ready. With the right gear and layers, you’ll be equipped to take on any trail confidently. Make this year special by conquering new trails and creating unforgettable memories. Some of the best clothing for backpacking includes the following twelve essentials.

The Basic Layers

1. Hiking Socks Your feet are your foundation, especially when it comes to backpacking. Choose moisture-wicking, lightweight hiking crew socks with targeted cushioning. A merino wool blend will keep your feet dry and comfortable on long treks.

2. Breathable Moisture-Wicking Tees Again, lightweight and moisture-wicking t-shirts are a must for any active outdoor pursuit. Most performance tees are perfect for four-season use.

Sun Hoodies

3. Long Sleeve Sun Shirt Breathable sun shirts and sun hoodies provide UPF protection and coverage from the sun while keeping you cool in warm weather. Plus, these same designs work nicely as a base layer during the cold months.

4. Hiking Shorts and Pants Quick-drying, comfortable hiking shorts are perfect for warm days, while durable hiking pants shield against rough terrain and unpredictable weather.

5. Sun Hat Protect your face and neck with a wide-brim sun hat or lightweight cap. Similar to a men’s or womens sun shirt, look for UPF-rated fabrics for your sun hats.

Layers for Added Warmth and Weather Protection

1. Fleece Jacket A mid-layer fleece provides warmth and breathability for chilly mornings or evenings. It’s also a versatile piece of gear that will keep you dry and comfortable, especially a performance fleece with moisture-wicking properties.

2. Insulated Jacket A lightweight and highly packable synthetic or down insulated jacket offers excellent warmth for colder conditions. For reliable protection against chilly morning and nighttime temperatures, choose a jacket you can count on.

3. Beanie Keep your head warm with a fitted beanie or other insulated headwear. Knit, wool, or fleece beanies are your best bet for evenings around the campfire.

4. Thermal Base Layers Warm base layers help regulate body temperature and wick sweat during early-season treks. Breathable warmth in your base layer is key to strategic layering.

5. Toasty Gloves Insulated gloves can protect your hands in cold or windy conditions. Low-bulk, highly breathable gloves will give you reliable dexterity out in the wilderness.

6. Lightweight Windbreaker A windbreaker adds an extra layer of protection when you’re facing unpredictable conditions. You can always stuff a super-light layer into your pack to keep on hand just in case.

7. Reliable and Packable Rain Jacket and Pants for Emergencies If you’d rather forego a windbreaker, choose a waterproof outer layer like high-performance men’s and womens rain jackets instead. Stay dry and comfortable with a durable, breathable, and easily packable rain jacket. Stretchy rain pants are another item that offers even more protection in the wettest environments.

About Outdoor Research

Take your adventures to the next level with Outdoor Research. Since 1981, Outdoor Research has set the standard for high-quality, reliable outdoor gear and apparel. No matter the season or activity, they have essentials you can count on. Heading to your favorite mountain for some skiing or snowboarding this winter? Gear up with everything from insulated gloves to fleece jackets and even breathable and waterproof outer layers. Need lightweight apparel for upcoming hikes? Check out their incredible collection of sun hoodies, shirts, and hats. These breathable, protective designs can easily serve as your base layer under fleece, down, or rain jackets. When you’re searching for reliable gear that’s ready to adapt to changing conditions so you can always keep the adventure going, look no further than Outdoor Research.

Choose performance-driven gear by Outdoor Research at https://www.outdoorresearch.com/

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