If you’ve been thinking about spending more time in nature, consider hiking. It’s a combination of exposure to nature and exercise, and offers a lot of benefits for modern men who like to escape their sedentary lifestyle. If you’re new to hiking, it might be a good idea to hit the trails on a sunny day and make the most of the warm weather. As long as you’re ready to step into the summer hiking experience, it can bring precious memories for a lifetime.
Prepare for Your Summer Hikes in Three Simple Steps
Put On the Right Footwear
It’s important to dress appropriately for your hikes to stay safe and comfortable. To begin with, you can buy walking sandals for men’s outdoor adventures, including sturdier hikes and exploration, so they’ll enable air to pass over your feet as the day gets hotter and reduce the risk of blisters forming.
They’re a great alternative to hiking shoes, providing the same traction, durability and cushioning with added breathability. Their increased breathability and high-quality, quick-drying materials they’re most often made from, make them a great solution for hikers who encounter water crossings or wet conditions.
Typically, they’re more lightweight and feature a sturdy strap design and closures to secure the foot. Contoured arch support and padded straps are important features for good all-round comfort. Make sure to prioritise comfort when choosing your hiking footwear and look for sandals with ample cushioning in the footbed to support your feet during long walks.
However, it doesn’t mean you have to give up your style. Today, men’s walking sandals are available in various colours and designs, so you can easily find a pair that will match the rest of your outfit and take you from the quiet hiking trails to the busy city streets.
An extra tip: put SPF 50 sun cream on the instep (the top of your feet) to avoid getting sunburned on your feet. Also, you can wear your sandals with socks if it feels more comfortable for you or if you’re trying to avoid getting tan lines on your feet that look like the straps of your sandals.
Consider your activity level before buying a pair of walking sandals for a men’s hiking outfit. If you’re walking on a rugged terrain, then choose sandals with added protection and more durable outsoles, while for casual walks you can go with more lightweight and flexible designs.
Choose the Right Fabric Materials & Colours
Buying hiking clothes for summer can be an enjoyable experience if you know where to start and what to look for. Focus on lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics that dry quickly and will keep you comfortable during your hikes.
Nylon and polyester, for instance, are great options as they are light, loose and durable. Natural fibres that are breathable and odour-resistant, such as merino wool, are popular solutions as well. Try to avoid cotton as it tends to absorb moisture and can leave you feeling uncomfortable on the trail. It’s also always a good idea to choose clothing that offers UPF 50+ sun protection to ensure you’re fully protected from UV rays.
In terms of colours, opt for light colours as they reflect the sun’s rays rather than absorbing them as the dark alternatives. Look for shirts, shorts and pants in white, tan or khaki to keep you cool on the trails, and if they feature open vents, then even better. Opening them up on a hot day can improve airflow and keep you cool.
Dress in Layers & Wear the Right Accessories
In summer, temperatures can vary throughout the day, so dressing in layers is a great way to stay comfortable as you start off your hike in the morning and then hike during the hotter part of the day. Your body temperature may rise rapidly, and layers will allow you to adjust your clothing to it. So, you can regulate your temperature and prevent overheating or maybe even getting too cold. Simply remove layers as you warm up and add layers as you cool down.
Make sure you wear a hat as it provides essential protection from the sun for your head, face and neck. Choose a sun hat with a brim rather than a baseball cap. Also, you can wear a bandana or sun-protective neck gaiter to keep the back of your neck covered and if dunked in water, it can keep you cool and refreshed, too.
Final Thoughts
It can be a challenging task to pack for a memorable outdoor adventure, however, if you plan it carefully, you can easily put together a practical and comfortable outfit and carry the essentials with you.
Pack the hiking essentials such as a water bladder, sunscreen, sunglasses, electrolytes, a first aid kit, walking poles and an emergency rain jacket. Avoid the hottest part of the day and make sure you carry enough water. If you experience any nausea or disorientation, find shade and take a break, drink water, eat some food and take your time. Admire your surroundings and take some insta-feed-worthy photos before getting on your way again.