Hitting the trails in the rain doesn’t need to cut your hike short or leave you cold and soaked.
With the right wardrobe picks like waterproof lululemon hiking pants and moisture-wicking layers, you can stay dry and comfortable no matter the weather.
In this article, we’ll recommend 10 must-have clothing and gear items for wet weather hiking. You’ll learn exactly what to wear from base layers to outer shells. We’ll also give tips on how to layer properly so you can adjust on the go.
Follow our advice below so can you confidently head out on rainy hikes while keeping your gear light. Check the table of contents to easily find what you need.
Base Layers
Base layers sit closest to your skin and should wick moisture away while trapping heat. Avoid cotton, which stays wet and chills you as it dries.
1. Synthetic T-Shirt
A lightweight synthetic tee made of quick-drying polyester or nylon is key. This includes popular brands like Under Armor, lululemon, and REI.
Look for omni-wicking fabrics advertised to keep you dry across the entire garment. For women, some shirts have princess seams down the front for shape without tightness.
Material | Polyester, nylon, and sometimes wool blends |
Features | Omni-wicking, quick-dry, seamless, anti-odor |
2. Synthetic Long Underwear
Long underwear tops and bottoms add warmth without weight. Well-known outdoor brands like Patagonia and The North Face offer synthetic multi-layering pieces. Look for a similar quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabric that fits as a snug second skin.
Seams should lay flat to avoid chafing under layers. Thumbholes at the wrists help seal warmth. Some tops extend extra long at the rear for coverage when bending over.
Material | Polyester, nylon, elastane/spandex blends |
Features | Flatlock seams, underarm panels |
Mid Layers
After base layers, mid layers provide insulation without restricting movement. Fleece and wool excel at trapping body heat.
3. Lightweight Fleece Jacket
A lightweight 200- to 300-weight fleece jacket delivers welcome warmth over a base layer. Moisture-wicking properties keep sweat moving away from your skin. Because fleece stays warm when damp, it works well for highly aerobic activities.
Look for an athletic or “active” fit model that allows a full range of arm motion. An extended zipper with a garage at the neck prevents skin chafing. Some jackets have thumbholes or elastic cuffs to seal in warmth.
Material | 100% polyester fleece or recycled varieties |
Features | Moisture-wicking, quick-dry, stretch fabric at cuffs and hem |
4. Merino Wool Base Layer
Merino wool might seem counterintuitive for wet weather since we think of wool soaking up moisture.
But Merino’s moisture-wicking properties rival synthetics. The fabric breathes incredibly well, moves moisture vapor away from the skin, and controls odor.
As a mid-layer, merino wool insulates even when slightly damp. Look for a crew neck or quarter zip so you can easily layer multiple pieces.
Light- to mid-weight options work well, depending on the warmth you need and the bulk tolerance of your top layers.
Material | 100% merino wool or merino blends |
Features | Ultrafine fiber diameter, flat seams |
Outer Shells
Waterproof-breathable outer shells create a protective barrier from wet conditions while preventing interior moisture buildup. Look for coated nylon or proprietary waterproof fabrics like Gore-Tex.
5. Waterproof Pants
On rainy trails, waterproof rain pants lock out moisture so you stay warm and dry all day. They easily slip on over other layers without a full outfit change.
Popular options from lululemon, Outdoor Research, Patagonia, and Marmot have articulated patterning that allows free movement.
Look for full side zips for easy on-and-off over hiking boots. An adjustable waistband and ankle cords seal out wetness.
Material | Nylon with DWR coating or proprietary membranes |
Features | Fully taped seams, waterproof rating over 15K mm |
6. Waterproof Jacket
A lightweight waterproof hiking jacket gives reliable wet weather protection. Brands like Columbia, The North Face, and REI use proprietary technology like Gore-Tex or OutDry extreme to seal moisture out.
Look for a jacket rated to 15K mm at minimum to resist heavy rain. Fully taped seams prevent leaks where pieces join.
An adjustable hood fits over a hat, and underarm vents allow airflow to prevent interior condensation.
Material | Nylon with proprietary membrane or durable water-repellent (DWR) coating |
Features | Waterproof rating over 15K mm, fully taped seams, adjustable hood |
Socks
Wet socks chafe, blister, and lose insulation. Carry an extra pair to swap out if needed.
7. Wool Hiking Socks
Merino wool or wool-synthetic blends regulate temperature and insulate even when damp.
Brands like Darn Tough and Smartwool offer cushioned yet snug-fitting performance models. Look for a higher crew or knee-high length.
Material | Merino wool, wool-synthetic blends |
Features | Light- to mid-cushioned, moisture-control panels |
Hats & Gloves
Up to 50% of body heat escapes from the head, so keep yours covered. Hand and finger dexterity also declines quickly when cold and wet.
8. Waterproof Winter Hat
Wool and acrylic beanies soak through easily. Instead, choose a waterproof winter hat made of treated nylon or fleece.
Brands like Outdoor Research and Patagonia make extra-warm insulated versions.
Look for foldable brims for rain protection and adjustable sizing. Some feature built-in ear flaps for additional coverage.
Material | Waterproof nylon or synthetic fleece |
Features | Foldable visor brim, ear flaps |
9. Waterproof Gloves
For complete water protection plus warmth, upgrade your gloves to waterproof models designed for winter sports. Popular options from The North Face, Marmot, and REI have rugged nylon shells over fleece, wool, or PrimaLoft linings.
Breathable inserts improve grip without removing gloves. Pre-curved fingers move naturally, and adjustable wrist seals seal out moisture. Look for gloves rated to 10K mm or higher for heavy rain and snow.
Material | Nylon exterior shell, fleece or wool lining |
Features | >10K mm waterproof rating, pre-curved fingers |
Footwear
Waterproof hiking boots keep feet warm, dry, and stable over slick terrain. Popular brands like Salomon, Merrell, and Keen carry high-quality models.
10. Waterproof Hiking Boots
Look for waterproof leather or synthetic uppers in boots rated for hiking and backpacking. Rubber randing around the base protects from puddles and mud.
Inside, breathable waterproof linings like Gore-Tex maintain a dry foot environment. Lugged outsoles with aggressive tread patterns prevents slips on wet surfaces.
Finally, external shanks or internal frame sheets provide torsional support and stability.
Uppers | Waterproof full-grain leather or abrasion-resistant synthetics |
Lining | Gore-Tex or proprietary waterproof membranes |
Outsoles | Deep lugged rubber for traction |
Footbed | Contoured EVA or PU with heel cushion |
Pack Covers & Liners
Your backpack takes the brunt of the rain. Protect contents with both a cover and liner.
11. Waterproof Pack Cover
Made of coated ripstop nylon or silicone-coated fabrics, these formfitting shells protect your pack from moisture. Mountain Hardwear, REI, Gregory, Deuter and more outdoor brands offer sizes from 15L day packs to 80L multi-day packs.
Features like bright colors, reflective detailing, and external attachment points add convenience. Look for a fully seam-sealed pack cover rated to 10K mm waterproofing or higher.
Materials | Coated nylon or proprietary fabrics |
Features | Waterproof ratings over 10K mm, external attachments |
12. Waterproof Pack Liner
For contents that absolutely must stay dry downpour after downpour, add a waterproof pack liner too. These rugged roll-top dry bags made by brands like Sea to Summit and Outdoor Research keep your valuables protected from submersion or prolonged heavy rain.
Ultralight silnylon or vinyl shells shrug off moisture. Look for thickly taped seams, a wide opening for packing ease, grab handles, and waterproof ratings up to 30K mm for full waterproof submersion.
Materials | Silnylon, vinyl |
Features | Roll-top seals, >20K mm waterproof ratings |
Trekking Poles
Adjustable trekking poles improve stability considerably on slick, uneven terrain. Look for adjustable-length aluminum models from Black Diamond, LEKI, and REI.
13. Adjustable Trekking Poles
Trekking pole tips grip wet ground, allowing you to maintain balance and momentum through the nastiest conditions. Adjust length between 110 - 130 cm to reduce strain on knees during descents.
Look for easily operated locking mechanisms, ergonomic grips, and removable snow baskets to hold poles steady in mud and soft ground. Optional anti-shock mechanisms reduce arm joint impact.
Materials | Aluminum, carbon fiber, or composite construction |
Features | Adjustable shock absorption, interchangeable tips |
Tips for Layering
Wear moisture-wicking base layers closest to skin
Add insulating mid layers atop base layers
Finish with a waterproof/breathable outer shell
Vent excess heat through zippers and underarm vents
Adjust layers throughout the day as conditions change
Always carry extra dry base layers to rotate into
Comments