What to Wear Hiking in Hot Weather

There is nothing quite like the clarity of a high-altitude summer day or the smell of sun-warmed pine needles on the trail. However, hitting the peaks in July and August presents a unique set of challenges. High temperatures can quickly lead to fatigue, dehydration, and sun damage if you aren’t properly dressed. Knowing what to wear hiking in hot weather is about more than just staying cool. It’s about managing moisture and protecting your skin so you can stay out longer.  

At The North Face, we build our summer gear to breathe. Whether you're navigating a desert canyon or a humid forest, your clothing should work as a personal cooling system. If you are planning your next sun-drenched adventure, here is our expert breakdown of what to wear hiking in summer to stay comfortable from the trailhead to the summit.  

1. Choose Technical, Moisture-Wicking Fabrics

The golden rule of summer hiking is to avoid cotton at all costs. They say "cotton is rotten" when it comes to what to wear here. Cotton absorbs sweat and stays heavy and wet, which can lead to chafing and discomfort. Instead, look for synthetic blends (like polyester or nylon) or high-performance natural fibers. like merino wool.  

Our men’s activewear features FlashDry™ technology, which acts like a second skin to pull moisture away from your body and push it to the surface, where it can evaporate quickly. When deciding what to wear hiking in hot weather, a lightweight, breathable men's t-shirt is your most important defense against overheating.  

2. Protection Over Exposure: The Case for Long Sleeves

It might seem counterintuitive to wear more fabric when it’s 90° F out, but many experienced hikers prefer "sun hoodies" or long-sleeve shirts. A lightweight, UPF-rated long-sleeve top provides a physical barrier against UV rays, reducing your reliance on sunscreen, and keeping your skin temperature lower in direct sunlight. It can also protect against ticks.  

For women, our women’s active tops include versatile long-sleeve options that are airy enough to catch the slightest breeze. Look for features like underarm mesh panels and flat-locked seams to prevent irritation during high-output scrambles.  

3. Bottoms Built for Airflow

When considering what to wear hiking in summer temperatures, you have two main choices: shorts or lightweight pants.  

Hiking Shorts

Best for maximum airflow. Both women's and men’s hiking shorts often offer stretch-woven fabrics that move with you without sticking to your legs.  

Hiking Pants

Ideal for overgrown trails where ticks, thorns, or poison ivy are a concern. Look for pants with "convertible" features or those made from ultra-thin ripstop nylon.  

Women’s Leggings

Many hikers also opt for women’s leggings that offer a compressive fit and sun protection. Just ensure they are specifically designed for high-intensity activity to ensure they don't trap heat.  

4. Don't Forget the "Micro-Climates" of Your Feet

Your feet work harder than any other part of your body on the trail, making them prone to blisters in the heat. Pair your men’s hiking boots with synthetic or wool-blend socks. Even in summer, a medium-cushion wool sock can actually keep your feet drier than a thin cotton one by wicking away sweat before it softens the skin.  

For lighter, well-maintained trails, you might even consider specialist women’s hiking shoes with mesh uppers. Increased ventilation in your footwear can significantly lower your overall body temperature.  

5. Essential Summer Accessories

Finishing off your hot-weather kit requires a few key pieces to shield your face and neck:  

• Hats: A wide-brimmed bucket hat or a classic technical ball cap provides much-needed shade for your eyes and face. Explore our selection of hats for men and women.
• Sunglasses: Polarized lenses are a must for reducing glare off granite rocks or water.  

• Hydration packs: When hiking in the heat, you’ll go through water faster than you think. Check out our technical packs with hydration bladder sleeves to ensure you’re sipping water consistently throughout the day.  

   

Beat the Heat with The North Face

Knowing what to wear hiking in hot weather allows you to enjoy the wilderness even when the mercury rises. By focusing on breathability, moisture management, and sun protection, you can turn a grueling trek into a comfortable journey.  

Ready to gear up? Whether it's a ventilated sun hat or a pair of quick-dry shorts for men or women, The North Face has the clothing items you need for your best summer yet.