Women's Hiking Clothing

The layering system for walking in every season

An effective women's walking outfit relies on three layers working together, rather than a single garment. The first layer, a breathable technical t-shirt, wicks away sweat to keep your skin dry. The second, a women's walking fleece, traps body heat while staying lightweight. The third, a waterproof or windproof jacket, protects against rain and cold. This adaptable system lets you add or remove a layer depending on the weather and how hard you're working, from mild spring days to winter at altitude.

Close-fitting cuts and breathable fabrics

What makes a walking garment truly good comes down to its fabric. Synthetic fibres and technical knits dry quickly, breathe well and limit odours over several days on the trail. A lightweight piece packs down easily in your rucksack without weighing down your walk. Many styles today are made from recycled materials - a more responsible choice that doesn't compromise the technical performance you need on the trail.

The bottom half: trousers, leggings and shorts

What you wear on your bottom half depends on the season and terrain. In warm weather, a pair of shorts or women's walking Bermuda shorts offers lightness and freedom on sun-soaked trails. As temperatures drop, water-repellent, stretchy women's walking trousers or leggings move with every stride without restricting you. Stretch fabrics, flat seams and a tailored fit make all the difference on a long day's walk. Well-placed pockets and a comfortable waistband, with no pressure points under your rucksack, round off a genuinely functional bottom layer.

Protection from wind, rain and cold

Your outer layer is your shield against the elements. A women's walking jacket with a waterproof, breathable membrane blocks the rain while letting the moisture from your effort escape - a real asset in wet conditions. Against the cold of the mountains, a women's mountain walking down jacket delivers an unbeatable warmth-to-weight ratio, whether you're setting up camp or taking a break. A good lightweight windproof, tucked away in your rucksack, rounds off your protection for blustery days on exposed ridges. Every type of outing calls for its own kit: a day walk only needs a simple jacket, while a serious trek demands protection built to handle changeable conditions.

Completing your walking kit

A well-thought-out outfit works as a whole. Browse all our pieces in walking and trekking clothing, and check out our dedicated range of men's walking clothing to kit out the men in your life too. Don't forget walking boots suited to the terrain, for a complete outfit from head to toe.