Next to food and water, extra clothing and functional outerwear is one of the most important hiking essentials you can carry in your day pack. Choosing the right clothes largely depends on the weather, so pack carefully based on when, where and how far you intend to hike down the trail. The experts at Altrec.com specialize in finding lightweight and compressible hiking clothing and apparel to fit your outdoor and camping needs.
FREE Shipping on qualified Orders
!
Select Below to View Our Complete Selection.
Breathable versus Wind Resistance
Breathable or vapor permeable outerwear allows warm, moist air from your inner layers to escape, keeping you drier and more comfortable than traditional waterproof outerwear that hikers, climbers and backpackers used two decades ago. A highly breathable soft shell or lightweight fleece is especially desirable during trail rest stops when your body cools down and any moisture against your skin can leave you feeling chilled. The tradeoff in breathable polyester fleece and natural wool is wind penetration. While Gore WindStopper fleece and other windproof insulating layers offer exceptional protection from cold breezes, some hikers prefer a lighter fleece knit for enhanced moisture transfer. Making the right choice in breathable jackets and pants often depends on personal preference and hiking conditions. Some wilderness experts and experienced climbers opt for a two-layer approach, stowing their thicker wind resistant outer garments as they pick up the pace on an ascent.
Waterproof versus Water Resistance Hiking Clothes
Like breathable, wind-resistant shells, choosing your ideal garment for foul rainy days is often a matter of climate conditions and personal preferences. You can pay a considerable amount of money for a waterproof and moderately breathable hiking jacket, but if you're a fair-weather camping and hiking enthusiast, you may find that a more breathable, water resistant jacket is all you need---and the price is significantly lower. Because waterproof jackets rely on breathable membranes that feature holes too small for water droplet penetration, these garments are less breathable than a water-resistant jacket with vented panels. Before you buy, consider your hiking habits and habitats. If you take to trails in the rainforest or during the early spring and late fall, waterproof protection should be high on your priority list.
Features and Functionality
Choosing jacket features might seem like a no-brainer, but some hiking and camping gear enthusiasts limit their options in search of the ultimate deep-discount bargain. Consider your needs and backcountry priorities. If you prefer rapid ascents, zippered vents under the sleeves and along the legs of your outerwear should be important. If you mix your hiking with climbing, consider a jacket with pocket openings configured to fit around a harness. Reinforced material along the shoulders is excellent for minimizing the abrasion associated with wearing a heavy or large backpack.
bicycle helmets -
bicycle clothing -
bicycle shorts -
bicycle accessory -
cycling jersey
hiking clothes -
hiking boots -
hiking shoes -
hiking gear -
hiking equipment
camping gear -
camping stoves -
camping equipment -
camping tents -
rock climbing shoes
nike sneakers -
vasque shoes
We're Available:
Mon-Fri: 6am-8pm
Sat-Sun: 10am-6pm PDT
