The weather is starting to warm up... albeit very slowly. And when I start to see the sun creep out a little more, I always start thinking ahead to my next hike.
It's one of my favorite things to do on the weekend, but moving from chilly walks into warmer weather means prepping for different eventualities. Rather than wrapping up warm, you'll need to try not to overheat, and it's best to get prepared sooner so you can test out what gear works best for you.
You don't need to suffer through the heat to see the best views, and making smarter, informed choices about your gear, like getting the best hiking boots or the best lightweight apparel, can make all the difference. Here are my non-negotiables for when I want to head out on a hike in warmer weather.
Light layers
Light layers are always a great option, whether it's cold or warm, but for totally different reasons. Layering up from the get-go in cold weather helps your body heat stay trapped, keeping you warmer for longer. But in the heat, we need the exact opposite to be happening.
If your hike takes you through shaded areas or up taller mountains, no matter how hot you are at the start of your hike, you'll get a little chilly. So it's great to have something light you can just throw over top, like a top made from wicking material.
Water-wicking fabric is also going to ensure that your sweat isn't making you feel uncomfortable. But the best part of light layers? You can take them off quickly and easily.
Being able to simply bundle the layers you shed into your backpack and keep walking without any interruptions always massively reduces the amount of frustration I experience when I'm hot. No crankiness over here.
You could also try some adaptive clothing, like some convertible pants. I always like to keep my legs covered on hikes since you never know what could be hiding in the grass waiting to give you a little bite. But sometimes it's just too hot.
Pants that you can unzip to turn into shorts are an absolute game-changer. When you're feeling hot, sweaty, and cranky, it provides some immediate relief, and you can keep going on your adventure with an extra breeze.
Stock up on electrolytes
Beloved by all athletes, electrolytes are the secret weapon to keeping going in the heat when sweating is inevitable. When we sweat, we lose a lot of minerals like salt, and replenishing these means that your body holds on to more water for longer.
I notice a huge difference when I use electrolytes, as I always have far more energy. Before, I would almost always experience some cramping in my calf muscles after a day of hiking, but since incorporating electrolytes into my routine, that has completely disappeared.
Keeping your salts up also helps keep your blood pressure stable to prevent dizzy spells, and feeling slightly nauseous. They're my secret weapon and an essential in my warm-weather backpack.
Cool shoes
No, I'm not talking about looks here. You need a reliable pair of shoes that are supportive but are still going to keep your feet cool in warmer temperatures. Ensuring breathability makes all the difference, because nobody wants sweaty feet.
Allowing air to circulate in the shoe prevents moisture buildup. This is going to reduce the chance of getting blisters, which are an absolute nightmare in the heat since your blister patches won't be as effective.
Regulating the temperature of your feet also helps to regulate the temperature of your entire body, as a lot of body heat can be released through the feet.
Staying cool when hiking is easier than you think, you just need a few pieces of basic gear to keep you going, and these three things are where I always start.
