Spring is a time of renewal and rebirth. The cold winter months are behind us, and the days grow longer and warmer with each passing day. What to wear hiking in early Spring: basic gear list 2024 will help.
Spring is also a perfect time to head out on an adventure! One such adventure that may be in your future is hiking. Hiking has many health benefits, but it’s not without risks – which we will cover in this blog post. What to wear hiking in early spring: your basic spring gear list (hike safely).
Keep reading for what you should wear while hiking in early spring to keep yourself safe and comfortable! Also who you are as a hiker is also going to dictate exactly what you wear on a spring hike, and what you carry in your backpack.
Using a spring hiking gear list makes good sense during the early season of fast-changing weather and variable trail conditions. Regardless of where you hike, spring can throw windy gusts, cold precipitation, lots of mud, and fog at you.
And that’s on a good day!
Get ready to meet all of that gracefully, as you understand what to wear hiking and what to have in your backpack for spring conditions.
Your Basic Spring Hiking Gear List
A hiking gear list needs to be assembled before one sets off on an excursion. Especially if they are traveling on uneven terrain. The following items should be considered for inclusion in the list:
- Hiking boots or sturdy shoes that offer good protection and support
- Technical hiking socks
- Hiking gaiters
- Trekking poles
- Windproof jacket or fleece
- Warm hat, gloves, and scarf
- Day pack with plenty of room for water, snacks, first aid kit, map, compass, camera
- Cell phone with GPS capabilities – if lost or immobilized this may save your life
- Sunscreen and sunglasses for eye protection from glare
- Map of the area (in case you get lost)
- Water and snacks (Clif Bar or Luna Bar)
- Poncho for rain protection
- Knife, first aid kit, whistle, lighter and matches in case of emergency
- Backpack with rain cover
- Clothing layering system, ending with waterproof or water repellent outer layer
Here’s Are Some Recommended Items that Lots of Hikers Use:
Salomon Vaya Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles
What Footwear Is Best for Hiking in Spring?
I recommend bringing a good pair of hiking boots and sturdy walking/running shoes. Hiking boots will typically have more support and grip on slippery surfaces than walking/running shoes, but they may be heavier and less breathable.
The choice largely depends on the location, terrain, and duration of your hike.
Is Ankle Support Necessary for Hiking when Hiking in Spring?
Ankle support is not necessary for hiking in early spring. Hiking can be dangerous, even if you are wearing the right gear. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes that are appropriate for your level of ability, because you can twist or sprain your ankle even if it’s stable.
Best Thing to Wear on A Hike in Early Spring
I think the best thing to wear on a hike in early spring is a jacket and sturdy boots. On my last hike, I destroyed the zipper on my raincoat and it was surprisingly cold at night so I’m glad I had packed an extra jacket. Remember that maps, snacks, and extra socks are always a good idea too!
I’m not sure when you’re hiking, but if it’s in March in Scotland or anywhere in Japan in May then you’ll want to have a jacket and boots. These are the best things to have no matter what time of year it is.
In addition, I recommend bringing extra socks and snacks with you when you go on a hike because these could be really helpful when there’s a detour or something goes wrong. In my experience, I’ve been glad that I had taken these precautions.
What Should I Wear for The First Time Hiking?
If you’re going hiking for the first time, I recommend wearing a jacket, sturdy boots, and comfortable clothes. Make sure to bring along water and snacks in case you get hungry or thirsty while you’re hiking. Finally, be sure to bring a map so you can navigate your way around.
What Should You Not Wear While Hiking?
You should not wear a skirt if you’re going hiking. You can get men’s clothes specifically designed for female hikers, but once again, skirts are notoriously hard to hike in because they prevent you from sitting comfortably and breathing freely while sitting on the ground.
Plus there is always an increased chance of getting scraped or scratched by branches when wearing skirts because the hemline sits higher than pants would.
If you typically wear skirts for your hikes it’s worth investing in some tailored bottoms made with fabrics such as corduroy that will allow you to move freely and sit down without worrying about ripping them up.
Final Thoughts
The end of winter is a great time to head out on an adventure and knowing what to wear when hiking in early spring can be wonderful. Whether you’re looking for the benefits or simply want some fresh air, we hope this blog post has been informative.
It’s important that you have the right gear so your hike goes smoothly – from clothing to footwear!
