Ultimate Gear Checklist for Your First Multi-Day Adventure
Part 2: Your Clothing System.
📌 Overview
Having the right gear isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety and comfort. For me, that’s the formula for a great time outdoors.
If I know I’m not taking unnecessary risks and I’m comfortable on the trail, I can focus on the experience instead of worrying about what I should have packed.
This month, I’m rolling out a five-part series on gear essentials. The first one covered the big three: Your pack, shelter, and sleep system. Today, we’re covering your clothing system.
The Basics of Layering
Weather in the mountains or forests is unpredictable. Even if it’s 75°F and sunny when you start, conditions can change fast. That’s why it pays to be prepared.
Last year, I hiked the Art Loeb Trail—a tough, iconic route in North Carolina with plenty of elevation gain. The forecast was perfect, but the heat was relentless.
Every morning, we packed up camp and hit the trail, only to have our clothes drenched in dew within minutes. Luckily, we had rain gear, which made a huge difference. Lesson learned: it’s better to be slightly overprepared than caught off guard.
🛠️ Base Layer: The Foundation
Your base layer is the one that touches your skin, so it’s the most important. There are hundreds of options, each with fancy marketing terms, but keep it simple. Here’s what to look for:
Thickness: Thinner is usually better for versatility.
Wicking properties: Moves sweat away from your skin.
Comfort: If it’s itchy or stiff, you won’t wear it.
Odor management: Some fabrics, like merino wool, fight stink better than others.
I prefer the thinnest base layer I can find because it works across multiple seasons. In the summer, it keeps me cool and protects against the sun. When temperatures drop, I’ll layer a lightweight hiking button-down over it—or swap the base layer out entirely, depending on conditions. Even if it’s chilly at the start, you’ll warm up fast once you start moving.
🥶 Mid-Layer: Your Insulation
Even on cool mornings, I usually keep my mid-layer in my pack. Once you start hiking, your body heat does the work. But it’s essential when you stop moving—whether you’re making breakfast at camp, setting up for the night, or taking a break on the trail.
There are tons of mid-layer options, but the main choice is fleece vs. puffy:
Fleece: More affordable, breathable, and still warm.
Puffy (insulated): Warmer and more compressible but pricier.
If you go with a puffy, you’ll also need to decide between down vs. synthetic:
Down: Lightweight, ultra-warm, and packs down small—but loses insulation when wet.
Synthetic: Retains warmth even when damp and costs less, but it’s heavier and bulkier.
I used the Marmot Highlander Jacket in Scotland and never worried about the cold. If warmth and packability are priorities, investing in a solid mid-layer is worth it.
⛈️ Outer Layer: Weather Protection
Your outer layer is your first line of defense against the elements. Whether it’s rain, wind, or sudden temperature drops, this is the layer that keeps you moving.
You don’t need to overcomplicate it—most quality jackets will do the job. The key is picking the right one for your conditions. If you’re expecting heavy rain, investing in a high-quality waterproof shell is worth it.
🥾 Socks & Footwear: Comfort is King
If there’s one golden rule for hiking gear, it’s this: Comfort is king. And nowhere is that more important than your feet.
When choosing socks, consider:
Height: Too short, and your shoes could rub your ankles raw.
Cushioning: More cushion = more warmth and comfort.
Fabric: Merino wool is the gold standard, but synthetic blends exist.
Fit: Too big or too small, and you’ll have blisters by mile one.
Now, let’s talk shoes. I could write an entire guide on choosing hiking footwear, but here’s the short version:
Know your terrain. Are you trekking rocky trails or soft dirt paths?
Get fitted. Head to a local outfitter and try different options.
Prioritize comfort. If they don’t feel great in the store, they won’t feel great on mile 10.
A good pair of boots or trail runners can last for years, so take the time to find the right fit.
🔥 Pro Tip: Always bring multiple pairs of socks and a pair of cheap camp sandals to let your feet breathe after a long day on the trail.