What to wear summer hiking
With the lovely weather we've had here in the UK, it has made me so excited for the summer! Being outside more, in the mornings and evenings, going for longer hikes, having picnics and playing more games.
I can't wait!
But wearing the right clothing and layers can really help make a whole day spent outside easier and more enjoyable.
In the UK, are weather can be pretty unpredictable! So it's best to be prepared!
When hiking, layering is really important, so you stay cool, warm and dry from sweat and the elements. With layers, you can take them on and off as you need to, and it's just the same for your kids.
Read about the three layer system for winter hiking.
The three layer system for summer:
Base layer
As the weather gets warmer it's important to go for a base layer that will help your sweat off you and keep you dry. Synthetic fabrics are great at doing that, such as sports top, like this one
Merino wool Base layers will still work just as well at keeping you cool and dry, as they help regulate your body temperature, but they are a bigger cost investment compared to synthetic materials.
Mid layer
In summer, fleece layers are still a great option here! They keep you warm and dry, being water resistant, but not too hot!
Outer layer
In the hotter months, this layer is more than likely going to be a waterproof jacket or light coat. Something that will keep you dry and keep the elements off you, rather than another layer of insulation.
In the summer, hiking shorts are a great alternative to trousers, or you can opt for really lightweight trousers, or some that you can zip off into crop trousers!
Again, this layering system is the same for adults as it is for kids, so keep monitoring both you and your kids body temperature and fluid intake, and always adjust layers when needed.
If you have baby in a carrier or sling on your front, remember that your body heat and the carrier act as another layer, so you may want to leave the outer layer off completely.
A carrier cover also is another layer, so you don't need the outer layer of clothing when using it. Carrier covers are the best way to ensure your baby's body temperature stays as normal as possible, and keeps you in close contact with baby, but you will still need to check on baby and adjust layers when necessary. Definitely take the cover off if you need to!
There has been many times I've used a muslin over baby in the summer months, especially if he has bare skin and it’s sunny.
If your baby or toddler is in a hiking carrier, they will be more exposed, so it's important to keep them warm. Focus on the mid layer here, make sure it is warm, but not too warm, and keep checking on them. If your toddler is talking, it's much easier!
Make use of the sunshade with the carrier and sunhats, so your little one is protected from the sun.
Summer essentials:
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Sun cream
Snacks!
Water
Long sleeve layers
Appropriate thickness socks
Bug spray
Snacks!
More water
Umbrella (if your prefer)
I don’t know what it is, but the fabulous incentive of ice cream at the end of hike works absolute wonders in the summer months.
If you like this, why not read this.