Hiking apparel recommendations

Budget recommendations

  1. Base layers: MEC T2, MEC T2 Merino, REI Midweight, REI Merino 185, any athletic underwear
  2. Sun protection: Outdoor Research Echo, MEC Anywhere L/S, MEC Mochilero/Terrena, MEC Mica/Wanderwall, REI Sahara
  3. Micro fleece jacket: MEC Rockwall Midlayer, REI Flash Hyperstretch
  4. Insulating puffy jacket: MEC Northern Light, MEC Boundary Light, MEC Icefields, REI 650 Down, REI Microtrek
  5. Rain shell: Patagonia Torrenshell 3L, Outdoor Research Helium UL, MEC x AQUANATOR, REI Rainier
  6. Gloves: Any thin fleece liner glove, if needed (Outdoor Research Vigor or Patagonia R1 at a higher cost)
  7. Hat: Any thin fleece beanie, if needed (merino wool blend at higher cost)
  8. Socks: J.B. Fields (Smartwool, Icebreaker, or Darn Tough strongly recommended, even at a higher cost)

Budget alternatives

Check the clearance section in your local MEC or REI. Otherwise, Columbia, Decathlon, Uniqlo, and AmazonBasics may offer acceptable lower-cost alternatives. You can occasionally find high quality pieces at thrift stores, though it may take a lot of time and sifting through many stores before you find what you want.

Responsible consumption and sustainability

Don’t buy anything you don’t need. It’s okay to treat yourself to something fun once in a while, but try to avoid having many duplicate items crowding a single use case.

If you have something you like, keep using it! Repair your clothes instead of throwing them away. If you don’t need something anymore, and its in good condition, consider selling them, giving them away as a gift, or donating it to a thrift store.