Top 5 Tips to stay warm on fall hikes

Getting outside for a fall hike amongst the colorful foliage is a wonderful way to get exercise and give you a positive boost.  As warm summer weather dwindles, the now cooler autumn days and nights require a shift in clothing choices for outdoor activities.

Fortunately, staying warm and comfortable playing outside or going on an autumn hike or walk is easy to do.  

Simply follow these top five tips that work for both adults and kids.

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1. Layers - Clothing during fall and winter should be layered.  Your "base layer", the first layer that touches your skin, should be a wicking material (not cotton) to keep sweat off your skin. Then a long-sleeved shirt, fleece for warmth, and windbreaker will actually keep you warmer and dryer than having a single bulky piece of clothing. Layering your clothes also gives you the benefits of adapting to the environment since the weather warms and cools through the day during the fall.
   
   
2. Hat - Bring a hat even if you don't think you need one. Like we just mentioned in layering, the weather warms and cools during the course of a day and preventing heat loss through the head will keep your body warm. Insulated brimmed hats are good at keeping the sun and rain out of your eyes. 
   
   
3. Wool socks with Hiking Boots - Cotton socks are not a good choice to retain heat and they also hold sweat making matters worse.  Get a good pair of thin wool base socks, they actually don't feel like scratchy wool! Then add a heftier pair of wool or synthetic wool hiking socks on top.  Your feet will be snug and warm and most importantly dry and blister free!  When you're trying on hiking boots be sure to use the sock combo you intend on wearing.  Layered socks take up more space and your foot should be snug, not move, but also not be too tight.  There are a plethora of great hiking boot options on the market today. 
   
   
4. Avoid Cotton and Denim - If you've read this far, you may have noticed we're recommending staying away from cotton and denim. The reason is these materials take a long time to dry and are nothing but bad news when children get wet in them.  Opt for tried and trusted wool or synthetics, especially for outer layers of clothing.  Synthetic down is incredibly light and super warm!
   
   
5. Mittens over Gloves - When it comes to kids, always choose mittens over gloves.  They will keep small fingers warmer since they're not separated. If gloves are preferred, be sure to get thinsulate or fleece lined ones.  Again, no cotton.

​Remember, there's no bad weather, only bad clothing choices. If you dress for success with these five tips, your fall hikes will be an absolute pleasure.  

Send us your fall hiking photos or post them on social media with #GetOutside. 

Now get hiking!