32 Functional & Fabulous Fall Hiking Outfits for Men & Women

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man climbing a mountain - Fall hiking outfit

Dante Kim

August 5th, 2024

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60 seconds with WhatColors!

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Are you ready to hit the trails this Fall but need help deciding what to wear? Fall hiking outfits can be tricky; you want to look great while staying comfortable and protected. In this blog, learn how to create the perfect combination of a fabulous and functional hiking outfit for your next fall adventure.

If you're looking for the perfect fall outfit for hiking, look no further! WhatColors' AI personal color analysis app can help you create a fabulous and functional hiking outfit that will make you feel great and look amazing on the trails this fall.

What Is the Best Outfit to Wear When Hiking?

person on top of a mountain - Fall hiking outfit

Choosing the right outfit for hiking is crucial to ensuring comfort, safety, and functionality during the activity. Various factors, such as the type of terrain, weather conditions, and the duration of the hike, can significantly influence clothing choices.

The proper clothing can distinguish between an enjoyable and comfortable hike and a dreadful experience.

Factors Influencing Clothing Choices

When deciding on what to wear for a hike, it's crucial to consider the following:

Terrain
Weather
Duration of the hike

Terrain Considerations

For terrain, you want to choose comfortable and sturdy pants, allowing you to move freely and easily navigate twists and turns on the trail.

Fabric and Weather

Opt for moisture-wicking and flexible fabrics for your pants. In terms of weather, consider the season and the anticipated temperatures.

Choosing the Right Clothing and Footwear

Moisture-wicking fabrics are essential for hiking attire, as they help keep you:

Dry
Comfortable
Regulate your body temperature

Depending on the weather, opt for a moisture-wicking top, either short-sleeve or long-sleeve. A warm jacket is crucial for colder conditions, and a rain jacket is advisable to keep you dry and protected from the elements.

Importance of Footwear

Proper footwear is paramount for hiking adventures. While you don't necessarily need heavy-duty hiking boots, your footwear should provide:

Support
Protection from rocks and roots
Traction on various surfaces

Choose sturdy shoes or hiking sandals that can handle the job, ensuring a comfortable and safe trail experience.

What Not to Wear Hiking

Avoid wearing cotton, including denim, as it absorbs moisture and can make you feel sweaty or cold. Clothes you don't want to get dirty or ruined are best left at home, as dirt and sweat are part of the hiking experience.

Avoid These

Avoid improper footwear, jewelry, and packs that are too heavy or don't fit properly, as they can affect your comfort and overall hiking experience.

Hiking Checklist

This checklist outlines the essential items for a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience. By choosing the right hiking outfit that factors in comfort, safety, and functionality, you can maximize your hiking adventures and enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest.

Must-Have Fall Hiking Outfit & Gear Essentials

man going on a trek - Fall hiking outfit

1. Footwear: A Little Extra Protection

Opt for lightweight hiking shoes or boots with more support and protection during the fall. Waterproof models suit rainy and wet climates, while non-waterproof shoes offer better breathability.

2. Thicker Hiking Pants

Choose hiking pants with added thickness and wind-blocking abilities that still provide good mobility on the trail.

3. Synthetic Outer Layer

Lightweight synthetic jackets are ideal for fall hiking, as they breathe better than down and continue to insulate when wet effectively.

4. Merino Wool Baselayers

Merino wool baselayers provide added warmth in October at any elevation; they are lightweight, comfortable, and do not retain sweat or odors like cotton.

5. A Simple Beanie

Opt for a lighter-weight beanie made from merino wool in the fall to keep your head warm without soaking up sweat and smelliness.

Other Fall Gear Considerations

Rain Jacket or Hardshell

The best choice depends on your budget and use, but a good value pick is the Marmot PreCip Eco or Patagonia’s Torrentshell 3L.

Daypack

In the fall, increase the capacity of your pack to 20+ liters for more layers and gear; consider options like the Osprey Stratos 24.

Trekking Poles

Consider options like the Black Diamond Pursuit or REI Co-op Traverse for good balance and knee protection when hiking in the fall, especially in wet conditions.

Other Accessories

Gloves, Neck Gaiter, and Socks

Choose lightweight gloves, a buff, and wool hiking socks for warmth and protection.

Winter Traction and Gaiters

For high elevations with snow, pack winter traction devices like chain-style Yaktrax or Kahtoola’s

Winter Gear

Microspikes and waterproof gaiters like Outdoor Research’s Rocky Mountain or REI Co-op’s Backpacker for protection against snow and moisture.

How To Layer For Hiking In The Fall

Fall hiking outfits require mastering layering to navigate the unpredictable weather you may encounter on your adventures.

Layer Up

Layering is essential because it allows you to regulate your body temperature effectively as you move through changing environments, helping you stay comfortable and safe. This approach lets you add or remove layers as needed, avoiding overheating or getting too cold.

Key Elements of Layering for Fall Hiking

The Base Layer

Start with a sports bra for comfort, and avoid chafing from a clasp. Sports bras are the foundation of your hiking outfit, offering essential support without causing discomfort from backpack straps if you're carrying gear. As you work up a sweat during your hike, you can shed layers and try hiking in your sports bra.

Mid-Layers

Opt for moisture-wicking and quick-dry materials like Merino wool to keep you dry and comfortable during your hike.

Base Layer

A sleeveless or short-sleeve top is perfect for mild conditions, and a long-sleeve Merino wool top offers additional warmth if needed.

Quick-Dry Fabrics

These materials dry quickly, preventing moisture buildup and the risk of hypothermia in cold temperatures.

Outer Layer

For colder temperatures, choose a down vest or jacket. These provide warmth while allowing your body to breathe. Lightweight options like the Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Vest or Parka are ideal, offering warmth without bulkiness.

Pair your top layers with leggings for flexibility and breathability, ensuring you're prepared for various temperatures and activities.

Essential Gear for Fall Hiking

Waterproof Hiking Boots

Proper footwear is crucial for hiking, especially on rough terrain. Hiking boots offer better grip, foot protection, and ankle support, ensuring safety and comfort during outdoor adventures.

Take the time to break in your boots before embarking on long hikes to prevent discomfort and blisters.

Wool Socks

Proper hiking socks are crucial for cushioning and blister prevention. Wool socks keep feet warm and dry, especially in colder conditions, offering comfort and support during hikes. Consider thicker wool socks for added warmth when paired with hiking boots.

By mastering the art of layering and selecting the right gear for your fall hiking adventures, you can stay comfortable, safe, and prepared for whatever challenges the trail throws.

Adapt and Enjoy

Adjust your layers based on weather conditions and activity levels to ensure a successful and enjoyable hiking experience.

What Color Clothing Should I Wear Hiking in the Fall?

Bright safety orange is the best color to wear when hiking and backpacking in the autumn. Autumn is the hunting season in many states, national forests, and other public lands.

Wearing bright orange will make you more visible to hunters. Studies show that blaze-orange clothing increases visibility. This helps the wearer be seen by other hunters, especially in low-light situations. This can also be helpful when locating someone who is lost or injured.

Functional Color Choices for Fall Hiking Outfits

When reading about what to wear while hiking in the fall, try to choose bright colors—preferably orange. President of the area’s oldest and most venerable hiking club, Morgan knows the ropes.

Preserving Natural Quiet

She knows about keeping hush and hidden in the woods to allow everyone the tranquility of the outdoors experience. When hiking in autumn and winter, she advocated being as loud as possible – in what you’re wearing.

Enhanced Visibility for Safety

"We encourage everybody to wear some kind of blaze orange or any bright color. A hat is most effective since it’s the highest point of your body, or wear a blaze orange vest and wrap it around your backpack," said Morgan or Haw Creek.

Optimal Clothing Choices

"Avoid colors that don’t blend in with nature, like browns and greens. Wear red, yellow, or orange. Dogs are not allowed on CMC hikes, but if you’re hiking with a dog, they should also wear a blaze orange vest."

The Role of Colors in Hunting Safety

The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission’s Home From The Hunt safety campaign reminds hunters to comply with blaze orange requirements as firearms seasons commence across the state.

Blaze Orange Mandate

Hunters in North Carolina must wear a blaze orange-colored garment, such as a hat or a vest visible from all sides when hunting certain game animals with a firearm.

Target Species

These animals:

Include bears
Feral hogs
Deer
Rabbits
Squirrels
Grouse
Pheasant
Quail

Deer hunters must wear blaze orange during deer firearms season, regardless of the weapon.

Unnatural Contrast

“Blaze orange is a color that doesn’t occur naturally in the wild,” said Chet Clark, the commission’s eastern outreach manager.

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32 Functional & Stylish Fall Hiking Outfits

man on top of mountain - Fall hiking outfit

1. Duluth Trading Alaskan Hardgear Tundra Tac Shirt

This button-down shirt is stylish and packed with technical features ideal for the backcountry. Made of ripstop nylon for durability, it features a water-resistant finish and multiple pockets for carrying essentials.

2. Darn Tough Vermont Light Hiker Micro Crew Light Cushion

These seamless socks are lightweight, durable, and moisture-wicking. They also have extra padding at the Achilles for blister prevention and antimicrobial properties for freshness.

3. Danner Trail 2650 GTX

Ideal for thru-hikers who prefer sneakers, these shoes offer the comfort of trail runners with the durability of hiking boots. The Gore-Tex version keeps feet dry while allowing breathability.

4. The North Face Flight FutureLight Jacket

The Futurelight technology in this jacket combines breathability with waterproofing, ensuring you stay dry without overheating during steep climbs and descents. It's lightweight, packs into its pocket, and offers reflectivity for safety.

5. Smartwool Intraknit 200

This wool-polyester blend offers quick-drying capabilities, anti-odor properties, and enhanced durability. The 3D knitting and body mapping provides mobility and breathability.

6. Merrell Zion Mid Waterproof

These shoes feature a Vibram outsole for superior grip, a flexible mesh and leather upper, and a waterproof finish to keep feet dry in wet conditions.

7. Arc’teryx Creston AR Pant

Perfect for chilly days, these water-resistant pants with zippered pockets offer warmth without extra layers. The brushed interior provides comfort, and the stretchy fabric ensures mobility.

8. Obermeyer Dax Base Layer Top

With seamless construction and breathable fabric, this base layer offers a snug, chafe-free fit that is ideal for vigorous hikes. The nylon-elastane blend ensures stretch and regulates temperature.

9. Eddie Bauer High Route Grid Fleece Half-Zip Hoodie

This fleece hoodie with four-way stretch and a relaxed fit is perfect for warmth and comfort. The grid construction allows air circulation for temperature regulation.

10. REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket 2.0

This packable down jacket has responsible downfill and water resistance and offers insulation at a great value.

11. Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Storm Hat

Stay protected from rain or sun with this breathable yet waterproof hat. The adjustable fit ensures it stays in place and is easy to pack.

12. Hydroflask Limited-Edition 32-Ounce Wide Mouth Wonder Collection

This Hydroflask maintains beverage temperature for hours, with a lifetime warranty and a beautiful limited-edition design.

13. Osprey Smokey Bear Edition DayLite

This daypack supports wildfire prevention education and offers practical features like mesh pockets and hydration pack compatibility.

14. BLDG Active Skin Repair Spray

This versatile spray acts as a first-aid kit, killing bacteria while promoting skin repair.

15. Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tight 25

Made for intense activities, these quick-drying tights come in various colors and sizes for a comfortable hike.

16. Outdoor Voices RecTrek 26" Pant

Stylish and comfortable, these pants offer a relaxed fit and are available in a wide size range.

17. The North Face TNF Nylon Easy Pants

These easy-breezy pants, made from recycled materials, feature multiple pockets and cinch cords for adjustability.

18. Columbia Women's Saturday Trail II Stretch Convertible Pants

Convertible from pants to shorts, these versatile bottoms offer protection and comfort in changing weather.

19. lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Short 6

These high-rise shorts are perfect for various activities and come in different lengths depending on personal preference.

20. Libin Women's Cargo Joggers

Versatile joggers with water-resistant fabric and UV protection to keep you comfortable in any weather.

21. THE GYM PEOPLE Longline Padded Sports Bra

Stay comfortable and stylish with this sports bra in various colors and sizes for layering.

22. lululemon Scuba Oversized Full-Zip Hoodie

This full-zip hoodie offers style and function for your hike and is available in stunning colors.

23. L.L. Bean Women's Mountain Classic Anorak

This layering piece is wind- and water-resistant, perfect for cold climbs or windy conditions.

24. Vuori Pose Fitted Tee

Stay cool with this fitted tee for heated hikes, which is made from premium Modal fabric for comfort.

25. Amazon Women's UPF50+ Long Sleeve UV Sun Protection Shirt

Protect yourself from UV rays with this long-sleeve tee in various sizes and colors.

26. Gap Flannel Big Shirt

A versatile flannel piece for cool mornings and evenings, perfect for layering or tying around your waist.

27. lululemon Blissfeel Trail Running Shoe

Stylish and supportive, these trail running shoes are ideal for outdoor activities.

28. Allbirds Trail Runners SWT

Durable and rugged shoes for trail running and hiking, designed for safety and comfort.

29. On Cloudrock 2 Waterproof Hiking Boot

Sustainable and comfortable, these hiking boots offer waterproof protection and a secure fit for any terrain.

30. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot

Tough boots for challenging hikes, with advanced traction for slip-free grip.

31. HOKA All Gender Hopara Shoes

All-weather hiking sandals for comfortable walking in various conditions.

32. Keen Elle Backstrap Sandal

Stylish and durable sandals made from recycled materials, perfect for hiking and exploring.

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Get the perfect colors based on your season. Avoid colors that are a definite no. Based on your skin, eye, and hair color, find the perfect nail color with our WhatColors Nail Color Generator.

Instant Color Analysis

With WhatColors’ AI Personal Color Analysis app, you can complete your color analysis within 60 seconds. Download our app for free today on the App Store or Google Play store.