25 Hiking Outfits That'll Look Cute on Any Trail
Cosmopolitan2d
Whether you're going to the Grand Canyon or climbing a lil hill.
Whether you're on a casual hike (aka your daily hot girl walk around the block) or deep in the woods and dealing with some steep switchbacks, I'm sure you want to look stylish (especially if you're snapping a pic in a scenic hiking destination!). After all, the top of a mountain or a beautiful view deserves to be photographed, right? So don't miss out on a good photo op just because you wish you had on a cuter sporty outfit. Let us help ya out with some ideas.
We rounded up a bunch of cute outfits and clothes for you to wear the next time you plan a hiking trip or decide to explore some of the trails around your area. This is just a starting point with some fun footwear picks, layering options, and a variety of base layers to keep you cool and dry. If you're looking for specific hiking pieces, we've also got lots of leggings, bike shorts, boots (highly suggest you check out Merrell if you're looking for footwear), jackets, and two-piece sets to recommend. Need even more inspo for your hiking trip? Check out these activewear brands for more options.
Our top picks for the best hiking outfits in 2023:
-
compression tights that aren't too tight
Everlane The Perform Legging -
cute but *highly comfortable* shoes
Frankie4 WiNNiE II -
the liner you'll need for every hike
Patagonia W'S Down Sweater -
A short one piece
Nike NSW Icon Clash One Piece -
A shell jacket with a sweatshirt
Tory Sport All Weather Jacket
Take a peek at all the cute hiking outfits and clothing below—and get ready to feel v outdoorsy. Pack a backpack full of your favorite snacks and get out there!!
compression tights that aren't too tight
Everlane The Perform Leggingcute but *highly comfortable* shoes
Frankie4 WiNNiE IIthe liner you'll need for every hike
Patagonia W'S Down SweaterA short one piece
Nike NSW Icon Clash One PieceA shell jacket with a sweatshirt
Tory Sport All Weather JacketA cropped half-zip and bike shorts
Aritzia TnaGLOSS Atmosphere Hi-Rise 7" Shorta sweatshirt to go with all your outfits
American Giant Classic Full ZipA matching set
WellBeing + BeingWell MoveWell Arroyo LeggingA short/skort and matching anorak
Lululemon Evergreen Anorakathleisure that gives a ~look~
Icon Swim Essential Leggings
hiking sneakers
Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid GORE-TEX®
a colorful, functional jacket
Good American Iridescent Puffer
big shades so you can see
DL Eyewear Nesbitt Sunglasses
Compression leggings and crop top
Girlfriend Collective Midnight Compressive High-Rise Legging
A bomber jacket and boots
Athleta Brooklyn Bomber Jacket
A tracksuit for trails
Girlfriend Collective Lollipop Summit Track Pant
a long-sleeved top with a vest
Fabletics Elliot Puffer Vest
shorts with a long-sleeve shirt
Outdoor Voices Rectrek 3" Short
washable slip-ons for max comfort
Rothy's The City Slip On Sneaker
A simple tank and leggings
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Step Up Racerback Tank
a luscious lounge set
Parade Lush Rib Warm Base Legging
A matching sports bra and leggings
Outdoor Voices Zoom 7/8 Legging
A T-shirt and bike shorts
Folivora Plus Size 2Pcs Short Sleeve Top & Bodycon Shorts
bright joggers and white sneakers
Nike Sportswear Phoenix Fleece
A cotton shirt and shorts
Sweatshorts Khaki
a color block set
SPLITS59 Bianca High Waist Techflex 7/8
How to choose a hiking outfit:
Choosing an ensemble for a hike depends on several things—including the intensity of said hike, time of day, and weather. So making sure you know when and where you're walking can help you pick the best 'fit. You wouldn't go on a winter hike wearing a crop top and bike shorts, right? Right. So, keep these concepts in mind:
Pick the right shoes: Before simply slipping on a pair of sneakers, make sure you know how intense your hike will be. Will you be climbing up huge hills at a high elevation or are you taking a stroll on a trail in your neighborhood? Each of these situations will probably require different footwear! For more vigorous hikes, you'll want to make sure you have a solid pair of hiking shoes or boots that can handle tougher terrains. If you're just taking an elevated walk, though, get yourself some comfortable walking shoes.
Layer up: Temperatures change throughout the day, so having multiple layers you can put on or take off is key. REI recommends focusing on three layers—base, middle, and top. Your base layer is essentially underwear that's breathable and keeps moisture from making you uncomfortable as the hike goes on. The middle layer is what can ensures you don't get too cold (especially during winter hikes). The top (or outer) layer consists of pieces like coats and rain jackets. Of course, this can vary depending on how hot or cold it is outside—so don't forget!
What looks to avoid wearing when hiking:
If you've ever had to walk a long way wearing jeans, heels, or super thick clothing, you likely already have a good idea of what to avoid when getting dressed for a hike. Temperatures and terrain will ultimately play a huge role, but it's best to generally avoid anything uncomfortable, itchy, or hot. (Or, if you're going to be outdoors when it's freezing out, make sure your clothes are insulated.) This is where layering will really come in handy.
It's also a good idea to skip the cotton clothing (it has very little insulation and holds onto moisture) as well as denim (which can be super uncomfy and get really heavy when wet).
Here's how we chose all these cute selects.
Cosmo's fashion team is constantly curating the internet to bring you the best, most relevant options like it's our job (because it is, heh).
We have pretty high standards when it comes to clothing and accessory recommendations. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to. You're welcome!
Lauren Adhav Associate Fashion Editor I'm Cosmopolitan's Associate Fashion Editor and write about any and all trends, major celeb fashion moments, and why wide-leg jeans are basically the best.