Hiking in the Spring

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Hiking in the spring often gets a bad rap. Cold, rainy weather mixed with muddy trails tend to keep most hikers indoors…and I haven’t even mentioned the Georgia Pollen. That being said, spring is one of the best seasons to embrace cooler weather, to fight fatigue, and to enjoy your surroundings without too many people around. It’s important to dress appropriately and to pack a few essentials in order to combat unpredictable weather and trail conditions.

Top 3 Tips When Hiking in the Spring:

  1. Layer Up: spring weather can be unpredictable, so layering is important! Each clothing layer has a unique function, and you can always add/remove layers depending on weather.
  2. Prepare For The Weather: there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear. Forecasts can change almost instantly, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Be ready to adapt if forecasts are wetter, colder, etc.
  3. It’s All About The Shoes: this most important decision you will make in regards to your hike. It is important to find the right shoes that best suit your feet and terrain; otherwise you will have a miserable experience!

Hiking in the Spring

 

Hiking In The Spring: Shoes

Let’s start with the most important, shoes! I always tell people that the number one item to splurge on is definitely your hiking footwear. Your hiking shoe can make or break your trail experience.

These are two of my favorite beginner models:

Adidas Trail Shoes

Columbia Newton Ridge

If you’re looking for something with a little more support and a little more intensity, I recommend the models below:

La Sportiva Spire Shoe

Women’s Hoka GORE-TEX Hiking Boots

Salomon 4 GTX

Hiking In The Spring: Clothing

Since weather is never consistent, layers are important! Cotton clothing is especially problematic during the rest phases of hiking trips in cold conditions (or when you reach a windy peak) as it is often soaked with sweat and therefore it leads to rapid body heat loss. This can in severe cases lead to hypothermia.

Long Sleeve Base Layer

Short Sleeve Base Layer

Performance Tank

Convertible Pants

Climbing Shorts

Hiking Socks

Definitely splurge on the right socks to keep your feet happy and free of blisters!

Sports Bras

Hiking In The Spring: Outerwear

Your hiking jackets and pullovers are your 2nd or 3rd layer that protects against wind, rain, snow and cold. It is also used to protect against natural elements such as bushes, brambles or rubbing against stones etc.

Pullover

Light Rain Jacket

Rain Shell

Hiking In The Spring: Headwear

A good hiking hat can protect you from the sun, keep your head warm in cold weather, and even help keep the rain off your face.

Favorite Hiking Hat

Kavu Strapvisor

Baia Polarized Sunglasses

Goodr Sunglasses

Hiking In The Spring: For The Guys

Final Thoughts on What to Wear Hiking in the Spring

Thanks for reading all about what to wear when hiking this Spring! Check out some of my other blog posts on hiking and the outdoors:

Ventre’s Adventures Spring Athleisure Picks