As the weather warms up and spring arrives, it’s a great time to head out on the trails for some hiking adventures. We love hiking, but the changeable conditions of spring can make it tricky to figure out what we should wear. We’ve had times when the temperatures started cool in the mornings before becoming quite warm in the afternoons. Sometimes, we would even encounter rain showers. That’s why having the right hiking clothes for spring is important.
To stay comfy during your spring hike, you should have three layers of clothing: a base, mid, and outer layer. Unlike hiking in winter, there’s no need for exceptionally warm long underwear or thick, bulky jackets. Your gear should be comfy and warm enough while providing enough room for layering. Choosing the gear that can be easily put on and off is also important so you can adjust to the unpredictable weather. Below are our favorites, so check them out!
Table of contents
Hiking Shoes
Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoes
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With the right hiking shoes, you’ll be able to hike comfortably and properly. Are you looking for a pair? Why not consider the Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoes? Offering a perfect balance of comfort and performance, these shoes are made for treks on moderate terrain. When we wore them, we loved how breathable they were, keeping our feet from getting too stuffy. We could also tell they could hold up well to regular wear and tear.
Weighing 24.6 oz, these hiking shoes are lightweight yet supportive enough for most people. However, the star of the show is the TechLite midsole, which delivers long-lasting cushioning and high-energy return. When we were on the trail, we didn’t feel that much fatigue. These shoes truly kept our feet happy mile after mile. Speaking of which, here are the best waterproof hiking shoes!
Pros
- The Omni-Grip outsole promises amazing traction.
- These shoes are built to last.
- They’re available in multiple color options.
Cons
- They might not offer enough ankle support for technical terrain.
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Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Boots
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Best Hiking Shoes. We’re sure you’ve read or heard about the Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Boots before. These popular boots are known for their plush cushioning and supportive footbeds, making them comfortable for long days on the trail. Personally, we loved the soft leather and mesh upper, which offered us a good balance of breathability and protection.
Not to mention, the Vibram outsole provides excellent grip on various terrains, including loose dirt, rocks, and wet surfaces. Thanks to that, we were able to face tough terrain with full confidence. Also, compared to other hiking boots, the Moab 3 offers good value for their price. Whether for day hikes, light backpacking, or casual outdoor adventures, these boots won’t disappoint you. For more boots, check out these mountain hiking boots!
Pros
- They offer excellent comfort.
- These boots boast a super durable construction.
- They’re available in waterproof and non-waterproof versions.
Cons
- These boots might be too bulky.
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Hiking Pants
FREE SOLDIER Outdoor Cargo Hiking Pants
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The FREE SOLDIER Outdoor Cargo Hiking Pants are thought hiking pants that can handle anything the trail throws your way. One of its biggest selling points is its nylon-spandex blend. It provides a good balance of durability, breathability, and quick-drying performance. We were further impressed by these pants when we found out they were scratch-resistant and stretchy.
Another highlight is their DuPont Teflon Coating, which repels water and stains, keeping you dry and clean. No matter where we go, we always wear sunscreen. And for extra protection, wear these pants. That’s because they offer UPF 50+ sun protection, blocking harmful UVA and UVB rays. Also, with an adjustable belt, we were able to customize the fit of the pants easily.
Pros
- The durable YKK zippers and metal buckle closure offer a secure closure system.
- There are multiple pockets for storage.
- They’re available in many sizes and shades.
Cons
- The cargo pockets might be bulky for some people.
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Mammut Runbold Pants
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Best Hiking Pants. The Mammut Runbold Pants are designed for those who demand both comfort and performance on the trail. What’s the biggest selling point of these pants? It’s the material. The blend of polyamide and spandex gave us impressive freedom of movement. For dynamic activities like hiking, scrambling, and even climbing, you can always rely on these pants.
Another thing that people love about them is their adjustable waistband. It ensures a snug and secure fit. Meanwhile, the external adjustment allows for on-the-go tweaks without needing to remove layers. Not to mention, these pants boast a bunch of pockets. There are four pockets in total, offering ample storage for your essentials without hindering movement.
However, if you’re into shorts, check out these cargo shorts for hiking and women’s hiking shorts instead!
Pros
- They’re available for both men and women.
- These pants are lightweight and breathable.
- They also dry surprisingly fast.
Cons
- Compared to their competitors, these pants come at a premium price point.
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Outer Layer
Outdoor Research Apollo Rain Jacket
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The Outdoor Research Apollo Rain Jacket isn’t just another raincoat on the market. This is a storm-fighting shell built for adventures. Thanks to the power of the Ventia technology, we were able to hike without feeling a single drop. In case you’re wondering, it’s a breathable shield that keeps the wearer dry while letting their body vent excess heat. Say goodbye to clammy discomfort!
The protection doesn’t stop there. With fully sealed seams and a double storm flap, this jacket is great at locking out moisture. Another thing that surprised us was its weight. Its lightweight design didn’t weigh us down at all, allowing us to move freely and comfortably. And when we were done testing this lightweight rain jacket, we packed it into its pocket for easy storage.
Pros
- The jacket comes with zip pockets for small items.
- It’s both lightweight and packable.
- Though waterproof, it’s still highly breathable.
Cons
- On the pricier side.
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Columbia Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket
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Need a new rain jacket for your next hiking adventure? Consider the Columbia Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket! This jacket is all about being compact and packable, which is why we love it so much. When we were done wearing it, all we had to do was fold it neatly into its chest pocket and put it inside our hiking backpack. So convenient, right?
Though not fully waterproof, this jacket is still water-resistant. When we tested the jacket, its nylon shell and seam-sealed construction beaded up water light rain effectively. Plus, the mesh lining adds breathability and prevents the jacket from sticking to your skin. Watch this review video by The Internet Sorcerer!
Pros
- There are dozens of different colors to choose from.
- Thanks to its packable design, it’s also great for travel.
- It has a timeless and versatile fit.
Cons
- Not fully waterproof.
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THE NORTH FACE Antora Jacket
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Best Outer Layer. Unpredictable weather can be annoying. So, why not have THE NORTH FACE Antora Jacket? This waterproof jacket is designed to handle the elements. The DryVent 2L shell provides amazing protection from rain. We’ve tested pouring water into the jacket, and it was 100% waterproof. What surprised us even more was that the jacket remained breathable despite being waterproof. That way, we didn’t overheat at all.
During testing, this jacket was like a windbreaker. It effectively blocked windchill, keeping us comfortable when things got breezy. We’re sure you’ll also love its standard fit. It offers a relaxed yet articulated design, allowing for easy layering and movement. The jacket is made with 100% recycled fabrics, making it a more sustainable choice for eco-conscious hikers.
Are you a NORTH FACE fanatic? If so, here are THE NORTH FACE garment bags and backpacks!
Pros
- It comes in various colors and has a clean, modern aesthetic.
- The secure-zip hand pockets keep your essentials safe and dry.
- The hood, hem, and cuffs are adjustable.
Cons
- While lightweight, it’s not the most packable.
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Mid Layer
Duofold Midweight Wicking Thermal Shirt
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If you shiver at the hint of a breeze, hiking can feel much harder than it should. Thankfully, there’s the Duofold Midweight Wicking Thermal Shirt. The first thing that we want to talk about is its warmth. The double-layer thermal construction provided us with serious insulation without bulk during testing. What’s more, the moisture control is also a game-changer. We didn’t have to worry about that damp, uncomfortable feeling during our hike with this shirt.
Like other high-quality thermal shirts, this one features flat lock seams, and they’re literally a godsend. We’ve experienced the wrath of itchy and poorly constructed thermals before, and we were glad this shirt gave us zero irritation and chafing. While functionality is key, a little touch of style never hurts. The pointelle fabric adds a subtle feminine detail that makes this thermal shirt more than just practical. For more moisture-wicking mid-layers, here are the best long-sleeve shirts for running.
Pros
- It wicks sweat away easily.
- There’s a wide array of different shades to choose from.
- It’s machine washable.
Cons
- It’s a bit too small for some women.
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Joe’s USA DRI-Equip Long Sleeve Shirt
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With so many long-sleeves for exercise on the market, finding a decent one can be hard. Enter Joe’s USA DRI-Equip Long Sleeve Shirt. This shirt isn’t decent. In fact, it’s awesome. Pulling it on, we were surprised by how lightweight it felt. It was seriously featherweight. The material was super soft and smooth, almost silky – a big win for comfort. For outdoor activities like spring hiking, this shirt is hard to beat and deserves to be called one of the best hiking clothes for spring.
“Smooth, stylish, and comfortable, we think this shirt deserves more recognition. Give it a try and thank us later!”
WOW Travel
During testing, we sweated a lot. But to our delight, the DRI-Equip held up. The moisture-wicking fabric did its job admirably, pulling sweat away from our skin and keeping us feeling relatively dry. There was no clammy cling, just breathable comfort. Plus, it dried ridiculously fast, which was a major perk considering the post-hike chill. By the way, did you know that this shirt is also featured on our list of the best long-sleeve lightweight fishing shirts?
Pros
- The fabric is wrinkle-resistant.
- It has a roomy fit, which is perfect for layering.
- The set-in sleeves stay put no matter what you’re doing.
Cons
- It tends to run large.
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Carhartt Base Force Midweight Thermal Shirt
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Best Mid Layer. Check out the Carhartt Base Force Midweight Thermal Shirt for those windy spring days. When it comes to warmth, this pullover is a champion. It’s designed to keep you warm in moderately cold and cold conditions. When we were hiking with this shirt, we were kept warm and comfortable thanks to the waffle-knit fabric.
Moreover, this shirt utilizes the brand’s FastDry technology, which wicks away sweat effectively and dries incredibly fast. This one is among our favorites Among all the thermal shirts we’ve tried. One of the reasons why is that during testing, we were able to move freely thanks to the Rugged Flex stretch technology. Want to learn more about this awesome shirt? Visit its official website!
And if you crave more items from Carhartt, they’re featured on our lists of the best spring hoodies and hiking socks with liner.
Pros
- This shirt features flatlock seams to prevent chafing.
- It has a tagless label for added comfort.
- It’s a nice choice for moderately cold weather conditions.
Cons
- This shirt might not be as thick as some people expect.
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Base Layer
Under Armour Mid Crossback Sports Bra
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Unlike hiking in winter, you don’t have to wear long underwear for spring hiking. The Under Armour Mid Crossback Sports Bra is a popular choice for women looking for a comfortable and supportive bra for medium-impact activities, including hiking. Our team tried it on, and we fell in love. This sports bra provided us with enough support without being too constricting. Not to mention, the fabric was smooth enough that we didn’t mind wearing it for a long time.
Speaking of which, one of the bra’s biggest selling points is its HeatGear fabric, which wicks sweat effortlessly and dries quickly. It helps keep you dry and cool during hiking. In addition, we also loved the crossover straps with a keyhole detail. It made taking the bra on and off easy, even when we were sweaty. This bra deserves 10 out of 10!
Pros
- The removable cups are soft and have perforations for breathability.
- There are so many colors and prints to choose from.
- A versatile option that can be used for many workouts.
Cons
- Not for high-impact activities.
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Dragon Fit Sleeveless Yoga Top
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You don’t have to be a yoga fanatic to wear the Dragon Fit Sleeveless Yoga Top. If you plan to hike this spring, this top has the potential to be your new favorite base layer. First things first: the material is exceptional. When we wore this top, it felt like wearing a cool cloud. The nylon and spandex blend felt silky smooth, lightweight, and breathable. We never felt weighed down or overheated.
On top of that, the moisture-wicking properties of this top will keep you dry and fresh, no matter how much you’re sweating. Beyond comfort, the fit of this top is flattering. The racerback design gave our arms complete freedom of movement, and the cropped length pairs perfectly with most high-waisted leggings. It’s not too short or too long, hitting just the right spot.
Pros
- It’s a versatile top that can also be used for hitting the gym and running errands.
- The simple design goes with almost everything.
- Despite its quality, it has an affordable price tag.
Cons
- It’s not wrinkle-resistant.
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Minus33 Micro Weight Wool Raglan Woolverino T-Shirt
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Best Base Layer. When it comes to the perfect balance of comfort and performance, the Minus33 Micro Weight Wool Raglan Woolverino T-Shirt takes the cake. This versatile base layer should be every hiker’s go-to piece in spring. When we first wore it, we were impressed by its incredible softness. The 17.5-micron merino wool felt like a second skin, light and breathable. What’s more, the athletic fit moved seamlessly with us, never restricting our movements.
One of the biggest wins is the moisture-wicking magic. As someone who tends to run warm, we appreciated how the Woolverino was able to wick away sweat efficiently, keeping us feeling dry and comfortable all day long. Bonus points for being odor-resistant – this shirt won’t develop that funky gym smell even after intense workouts. Plus, the reduced need for frequent washing is a win for both the environment and my laundry basket. Read the reviews about this shirt on its official product page!
Pros
- This shirt is made by Minus33, a reputable hiking gear brand.
- With sizes from S to 3XL, this shirt fits most body types comfortably.
- It’s machine washable and dryable.
Cons
- The sun protection rating is only UPF 21.
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Our Verdict!
You may or may not need all of the clothing items above. So, we’ve divided some of them based on their categories, and each has its own best product. That way, you can easily consider which item to get based on your needs. Take a look!
- Best Base Layer: Minus33 Micro Weight Wool Raglan Woolverino T-Shirt
- Best Mid Layer: Carhartt Base Force Midweight Thermal Shirt
- Best Outer Layer: THE NORTH FACE Antora Jacket
- Best Hiking Pants: FREE SOLDIER Outdoor Cargo Hiking Pants
- Best Hiking Shoes: Columbia Crestwood Hiking Shoes
How To Choose The Best Hiking Clothes for Spring
Choosing the right hiking gear can be tricky, thanks to the season’s unpredictable nature. Here are some key factors to consider:
Weather
Spring weather fluctuates wildly, so check the forecast for your specific location and time of day. Be prepared for anything from sunny warmth to chilly mornings and unexpected rain showers so you’ll know what kind of clothes to wear. Also, pack for rain even if the forecast seems clear. A lightweight waterproof jacket is crucial.
Activity and terrain
Ask yourself if you’re going for a leisurely stroll or a challenging climb. More strenuous hikes require breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics. Additionally, rocky paths might demand sturdier pants and hiking shoes, while easier trails allow for lighter options.
Comfort
Your hiking outfits for spring should be comfortable and allow for free movement. Avoid anything too tight that chafes or restricts your stride, making your hike less enjoyable. Plus, layering allows you to adjust to changing temperatures. Start with a base layer, add a mid-layer for warmth, and top it off with a waterproof/windproof outer layer.
What are the best layers for spring hiking?
For hiking during this season, you’ll need to layer properly. We recommend wearing three layers of clothes, including a base layer for insulation, a mid-layer for maintaining warmth, and an outer layer for protection from the elements.
Is Spring good for hiking?
Yes! Springtime is a nice season for hiking, as the weather is mild, and you can admire the foliage.
What not to wear when hiking?
You should avoid wearing clothes made from cotton, as they retain sweat and moisture. Also, avoid wearing denim, as it’s too heavy and doesn’t dry quickly. Never wear sandals or flip-flops, as they offer no protection.
