15 Hiking Outfit Ideas That Balance Fashion with Function

Whether you consider yourself outdoorsy or feel most comfortable in the great indoors, it’s good for all of us to log off social media from time to time and touch some grass—literally. While there's a wide range of ways to enjoy the outdoors, hiking is a great way to connect with nature as it’s low-cost, relatively easy for beginners (depending on the trail), and a suitable activity for most times of the year. Whether you’re hiking for the first time or your hundredth, it can be difficult to decide what to wear, especially when you’re going with friends or on a date, as the outdoors section isn’t famous for trend-forward pieces. However, there's been a lot of innovation across outdoorsy fashion brands in recent years, proving it's more than possible to have a hiking outfit that suits your active needs without sacrificing your sense of style. So strap on your favorite hiking boots and check out our 15 favorite hiking outfits for conquering the trail in the most fashionable way possible.

Layered Look 

One of the first rules for dressing to go hiking is to layer up. While an early morning hike may be chilly, it easily gets hot the more you move. Alternatively, on a lovely afternoon hike, you run the risk of running into a summer rainstorm. To find balance, wear a sleek bodysuit with a chunky sweater or pullover that you can take off and tie around your waist or shoulders if needed.

Pop of Color 

One of the biggest issues with outdoor clothing (in our opinion) is that there aren’t enough colorful choices. Most options are black, with the occasional navy, gray, and camo. If you have an all-black outfit on deck and are looking to spice it up, add a color-blocked jacket for an easy way to stand out.

Monochromatic Comfort 

Alternatively, you can keep it all one color for an easy outfit that stands out. If you’re looking to do a beginner hike in cooler temperatures, opt for comfortable clothing, like a cozy matching set in an on-trend color. Of course, don’t forget a coordinating pair of sneakers.

Matching Set 

Who doesn’t love a matching athletic set? While we usually wear our leggings and sports bra sets for trips to the gym or hanging around at home, they're also great choices for hiking on a beautiful, warm day—as long as it’s not too difficult of a trail. Put on your favorite set for a low-key afternoon catch-up hike with friends.

Pretty in Pink 

On hiking days, we wear pink. Just because you’re spending time in the great outdoors doesn’t mean you can’t embrace color. Bring some Barbiecore into nature with a hot pink sports bra, relaxed joggers, and a pink baseball cap to keep your hair in place.

Casual Stroll 

When you’re hiking for the first time, it’s important to start small. You don’t want to buy a ton of new clothes and equipment for something that you're not sure if you'll love. Keep it simple with an easy hike in some of your comfortable faves. A cropped crewneck, black leggings, and sturdy sneakers look stylish on the trail and at the drive-through on the way home.

Having a Romp

Once you get your bearings and know which outfits you feel comfortable in on the trail, you can start leveling up your hiking looks to include more playful details. A long-sleeve romper, white sneakers, and a trendy belt bag are ideal for hiking as well as for the selfies and TikToks you might take while taking full advantage of your surroundings.

What the Puff? 

When the weather gets colder, it’s important to have the right jacket to keep you warm on your hike. Put on a cropped puffer jacket with some warm joggers and a cozy hat to keep frostbite away without relegating your style to an afterthought.

Crisp Weather Chic

Autumn is one of the best times to go hiking. The temperature is ideal for outdoor exercise, the leaves are changing colors, and there's so much to see and do. Embrace the crisp vibes with a cozy plaid shacket over an oversized T-shirt and some leggings for an easy autumn look.

Winter Hike 

While the thought of going out during winter fills some people with dread, the season can also a scenic and peaceful time to hike once you’ve had some experience. Whether you’re having hot chocolate at the top with your partner or taking in the views, dress the part with a long-sleeve top, hiking pants, and strong hiking boots. Just don’t forget your favorite coat when heading out the door.

Sunny Days 

Take advantage of summer (or any warm, sunny day) by spending as much time outdoors as possible. Early morning and late evening hikes are a great way to spend a weekend or decompress after a long day. Embrace the temps with a fun sports bra, some trendy cargo pants, and a hat to protect you from the sun.

Hot and Cold 

Part of the reason it can be so hard to dress for hiking is that it's hard to perfectly predict how the temperature will vary at different elevations. To plan for any scenario, pair a cropped hoodie with matching shorts to keep your temperature regulated while looking stylish.

A Little Flare 

While many people wear hiking pants or joggers when hiking, leggings are becoming an increasing favorite as they're easy to move in, versatile, and help you look put-together during almost any activity. If you’re looking to switch things up, wear a pair of flared leggings with a comfortable hoodie and a bucket hat for a comfy-chic look.

Pack It Up 

If you plan on going on longer hikes, it’s important to bring a backpack full of supplies and some layers so you have everything you need on the trail. Keep your outfit light with a tank top and bike shorts and store your essentials in your stylish backpack.

Date Night 

Hiking is a great date activity to help you connect with someone new or create new experiences with your partner. To embrace the romantic vibes, move away from traditional hiking pieces and go with a stylish workout dress with some sunglasses for a romantic look. Bring a fleece jacket to keep you warm.

Up Next: The 10 Best Hiking Boots of 2023 That Are Both Functional and Fashionable

Read the original article on Byrdie.