So far this year, summer in the Lake’s has been a lot hotter and drier than usual. There’s barely been any rainfall, which has meant lots of long, hot hiking days. I’ve pulled together a list of what I wear when out on the trails, as well as some of my other essentials for those hot day.
Tops
I’ve yoyo’d about a lot with different tops in the past, but have recently fallen in love with the Dare2B lightweight range*. I have invested in all three sleeve lengths, in a range of colours, and wear them all the time. The vests are slightly shorter in length than the t-shirt and the long sleeved versions, which annoys me a little, but they’re so lightweight and comfy, especially in the heat, that I’ll take it. I’ve been wearing the vest when heading out, and then packing a the t-shirt version for if my shoulders need a little more protection from the sun. The long sleeved version is great for when you need another layer and is perfect for evenings camping.
Bottoms
I have been wearing nothing but the Peachy Queen ‘Ride the Dales’ shorts so far this year. They are amazing in so many way. First and foremost, they have pockets which are big enough and secure enough for a phone, which is a must for me when it comes to hiking attire. They are also ridiculously comfy, slightly longer than any other shorts I’ve had and very flattering. I have had so many compliments when I’ve been wearing these and they are one of my most recommended bits of kit. They’re also squat proof, so great for in the gym too. If you fancy getting yourself a pair, you can get 10% off over on the Peachy Queen website with the code ‘LISA10’.
Shoes
I’m usually a boot girl when hiking, however this summer I’ve started wearing trail shoes a lot more. I’ve got a pair of Merrell’s*, which I was gifted a year or so ago and I absolutely love them. They’ve been really comfortable in the heat and keep my feet much cooler than boots. I’ve just stuck them through the washing machine for the first time (in a pillow case) and they have come out sparkling and will hopefully no longer stink out my car.
Shell Jacket
Though the weather has been glorious, I’ve still been packing a shell jacket. It’s lightweight, so I barely even notice it in my bag, but it gives me piece of mind knowing it’s there ‘just in case’. I use the Arc’teryx Beta, which I got from the online outlet store a year or so ago. I still find it’s better to pack more than you think you’ll need, as it’s always a bit cooler on the tops of the mountains and the weather can change pretty quickly.
Other Essentials
In addition to clothing, below are a few other essentials that I always take with me on a summer hike.
Water Bladder – Topping up your fluids is essential on hot days. I managed to get through 3 litres the other day doing a 17km route in the heat. I’ve got a 2l bladder* which I fill with water, and then will often take a bottle with some squash and sometimes another bottle with something sweet and fizzy. I also have a filter, which I am yet to use, but again it gives me piece of mind knowing that it’s there.
Hat – Protection from the sun, as well as helping to stop the sweat drip into your eyes – it’s a no brainer for me.
Sunglasses – Pretty self explanatory, always useful to have on hand. I’ve got a couple of pairs of cheaper, lightweight glasses that I alternate when out hiking.
Sun cream – Put it on before you go, and top it up along the way, especially if you get sweaty or go for a dip. Even when it’s cloudy, you can still get burnt – I learnt the hard way.
Swimwear and towel – One of my favourite things about summer hikes, is en route dips. I will always pack a swimming costume and towel in the hope of finding a good stop. I use the Lifeventure soft fibre travel towel* and I love it. It’s really lightweight, packs down small and is quick drying.
Let me know your summer hiking essentials in the comments below.
Happy adventuring x
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Lisa Outdoors 
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