Women's Summer Hiking Clothes
When it comes to women’s summer hiking clothes, finding the perfect balance between comfort, durability, and sun protection is essential. Over the years, I’ve tested various outfits on Arizona’s rugged trails and beyond, and I’ve curated a list of my favorite gear that withstands the elements and keeps me comfortable on the move. From breathable tank tops to quick-drying shorts, these pieces have become staples in my hiking wardrobe. Some of these links do include affiliate links where I get a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you for your support!
These lightweight shorts are a game-changer for hot-weather hikes. They dry quickly, making them ideal for sweaty trails or spontaneous dips in streams. I own them in multiple colors and often pair them with my favorite tank tops for a complete women’s summer hiking outfit.
Another excellent option, these shorts offer more pockets than the Amphib version, providing ample space for essentials. Their quick-drying fabric and comfortable fit make them a reliable choice for any summer adventure.
For water-related hikes or casual strolls, these sandals offer impressive traction and durability. While I prefer boots for strenuous hikes, these sandals are perfect for kayaking or short treks
Sun protection is non-negotiable, and this hat delivers. Its breathable design and packable nature make it a constant companion on sunny trails. I have it in multiple colors, and it’s a key component of my summer hiking gear.
My go-to summer hiking tank top. I’ve had the black version since 2021, and it’s held up incredibly well through countless hikes and washes. I love that it provides solid chest coverage for sun protection especially important on exposed trails. The version linked is the updated model, which I recently bought and love just as much. It doesn’t offer as much coverage as the old tank top, but it is still great. I have also been loving the Mountain Hardwear Tank as well. If you want to see more of my favorites, check out our full blog post on the best women’s hiking tank tops.
A must-have long sleeve for sun protection. I have this REI top in two colors and wear it often over my Lululemon tank tops. It’s lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying—perfect for hot days on the trail. The built-in UPF protection adds an extra layer of sun defense without sacrificing comfort.
A sun hoody is a game changer for hot, sunny hikes. I didn’t have this specific REI shade hoodie at first, but I’ve used others I picked up while traveling in the Virgin Islands. Sun hoodies are especially useful for full-coverage protection, with built-in UPF and breathable materials that dry quickly. In fact, I often wear them for water activities.
2025 update: I finally bought this REI sun hoody for our Grand Canyon backpacking trip, and I loved it. Honestly, I can’t believe I went without one for so long. Highly recommend!
Convertible pants are a staple in my women’s summer hiking clothes lineup. I love these for their versatility—perfect for those days when the weather shifts quickly. We often start hikes early in cooler temps, and as the day warms up, it’s so easy to zip off the legs and switch to shorts. They’ve become a go-to for comfort and convenience on the trail.
Note: These pants have been updated, and the new version has a slightly different design!
My favorite hiking boots for summer trails. At first, I was unsure about the quick-lace system since it’s different from traditional laces. However, after a few hikes, it completely won me over—I never have to worry about laces coming undone or tripping over them. When I want more ankle support, I’ll wear my mid-cut Salomon boots instead. Both pairs have earned a spot in my women’s summer hiking clothes setup.
A great addition to your summer hiking clothes for water trails. These Salomon water shoes are perfect for creek crossings or hikes with water features. They offer solid traction and, unlike many water shoes, provide full coverage over the top of the foot—which adds both protection and comfort.
No summer hiking outfit is complete without good sunglasses. Investing in a quality pair can feel like a splurge, but Oakley’s Polarized Prizm lenses are worth it. They protect my eyes from UV rays, cut intense glare, and enhance contrast and color so I can see more detail on the trail. I also love the clip hinge feature—it lets me securely attach the sunglasses to my shirt when I’m not wearing them.
The perfect post-hike sandals. I don’t hike in my Birkenstocks, but I wear them before and after almost every trail day. They’re great for the drive to the trailhead and feel amazing once the boots come off. They’ve held up incredibly well over the years and are a comfy, reliable part of my hiking clothes lineup.
My go-to hiking pack for summer adventures. I love my Osprey pack—it fits a 3L reservoir, which is perfect for staying hydrated on hot summer hikes. It’s super comfortable, has plenty of space for snacks and extra layers, and even includes a spot to secure my hiking poles. It pairs perfectly with the rest of my women’s summer hiking clothes and gear.
Last but definitely not least—my favorite hiking socks. These REI Coolmax socks are incredibly breathable and dry fast, which makes them perfect for summer hiking. They keep my feet cool and comfortable on long trails, and they’ve become an essential part of my women’s summer hiking clothes lineup.
Final Thoughts on Women’s Summer Hiking Clothes
Choosing the right women’s summer hiking clothes can make all the difference when you’re out on the trail. From breathable layers to sun protection and post-hike comfort, every piece in this guide has been trail-tested and proven to perform in real conditions. Whether you’re just starting to build your hiking wardrobe or looking to upgrade a few essentials, I hope this list helps you feel more prepared, protected, and comfortable on every adventure. Have a favorite piece of summer hiking gear? I’d love to hear about it in the comments or over on Instagram!
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