Clothing- your hiking skin

Most of us remember when we first started hiking. We didn't want to go out and buy all the essentials until we were sure that we would like hiking and that's perfectly fine. We thought that our cotton shorts, tee shirts, socks and high top sneakers would do the trick.

Cotton is notorious for weight, water retention and skin friction. Conversely, there's also nothing more comfortable than cotton. (What did he say?) The fact of the matter is that cotton doesn't belong on the trail. The best trail clothing is made from fabrics that wick moisture from the body as you sweat, not retain it like cotton.

Wicking type hiking clothing is available for shorts, tee shirts and underwear from your area outfitter. You'll appreciate the value of this clothing after a good rain while in the woods. It will take less time to 'dry out'. The speed of 'dry out' time can be critical to the onset of hypothermia. The quicker your clothing dries, the quicker your body temperature stabilizes and the safer you remain.

Many hikers have chosen the wicking long pants that allow for each leg to be removed by zippers. The evening may be cool at camp and long pants will take the chill off while hiking during the day becomes warm and conversion to shorts make the trek more comfortable. Columbia among others markets good hiking pant/shorts.

Look for socks that wick moisture as well as offer air to your feet. Your feet need to breathe and a pair of good hiking socks will accommodate. Remember, the less moisture, the less chance of blistering.

The selection of hiking shoes can be daunting. High tops, low tops, Gortex, mess, knobby soles, etc. are just a few of the choices available. Whatever you choose, pick hiking shoes that are functional and comfortable. If you have weak ankles then aim for high tops. If high tops are too restrictive then shoot for low or mid tops. Whatever your choice... BREAK then in before your first long hike. If you don't, then bring plenty of mole skin (you're going to need it).

Here's a quick list of the basics for a 4 days trip:

• Hiking shoes
• 2 pairs of socks
• 2 tee shirts
• 1 pair of convertible pants
• 2 pairs of underwear
• Lightweight rain jacket/pants
• Lightweight outer shell for warmth
• Lightweight long johns (cooler months)

Remember, your choice of clothing is exactly that... your choice. But if you ask any seasoned hiker, they'll tell you, clothing is a critical part of an enjoyable hike.