Chaos Merino Wool Clothing

Choose a fabric type 

• Wool: Stays warm when wet, resists odor and wicks moisture
• Synthetic (nylon, polyester or acrylic): Ideal for sensitive skin, trap warmth and wick moisture. 

How much cushioning do you want?  

• No cushioning: Best for tighter-fitting performance boots that have a tighter fit or maximum ground feel
• Light cushioning: Shin padding with minimal cushioning on the balls of the feet, often with reinforced toes and heels 
• Medium cushioning: Added padding for warmth and impact absorption; ideal for cold conditions or looser-fitting boots 

Length 

• Knee high: Most socks for skiing and snowboarding go up to the knees to help protect from shin bang
• Crew: Cross-country skiers and snowshoers may prefer shorter hiking socks

Hiking shoe vs. hiking boot

• Hiking shoes
• Often lighter weight, lower cut, more flexible and more breathable
• Ideal for day hikes or backpacking with lighter loads
• Hiking boots
• Burlier, with stiffer uppers, over-the-ankle coverage and typically waterproof
• Ideal for multi-day treks with heavier loads

Types of hiking boots

• Day-hiking boots: Mid- to high-cut models that require less break in time; intended for day hikes or short backpacking trips with light loads
• Backpacking boots: Often over-the-ankle height and heavier-built with stiffer midsoles; designed to support multiday treks with heavier loads

Consider the lugs

• Deep, thick lugs improve grip
• Wider lug spaces sheds mud and offer good traction

Which insulation do you prefer?

• Down: Ultralight, warm and packable; loses insulation when damp
• Synthetic: Insulates when damp, dries quickly; heavier and less packable than down
• Down/synthetic: Warm in targeted spots; warm when wet but heavier than pure down

Consider these features

• Waterproof: Most are water-resistant; choose waterproof for added protection

• Ventilation: Pit zips or core vents help release heat during high-exertion activities
• Hoods: Some detach or accommodate helmets
• 3-in-1 jackets: Outer shell and insulated midlayer zip together; wear separately or as one
• Pockets: Stash gear, secure valuables

Types of Shoes

• Mountain bike: added traction for rugged trails; options for clipless or flat pedals

• Road cycling: stiffest soles for efficient pedaling; cleats connect to clipless pedals for maximum pedaling efficiency.

• City biking: comfortable, everyday; good for recreational riding or commuting

Find the Right Fit

• Choose shoes that feel comfortable from the start.

• Make sure your toes have enough room to wiggle slightly.

• Your arches should feel snug and supported; your heel should stay in place. 

Shoe Closure

• Lace-up: most customizable fit, can get wet or dirty in bad weather

• Strap: quick to adjust and more likely to stay secure

• Dial lace: delivers an adjustable fit with a quick-release cable system

• Single-pull lace: easy on and off with a single lace toggle

Sun-Protective Clothing Basics

• UV exposure poses risks in both warm and cold conditions
• Exposure risks are greater at higher elevation and equatorial locations
• For more UV protection, wear both UPF clothing and sunscreen

Understanding UPF Ratings

• Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) indicates how much UV radiation can reach skin through a fabric
• The higher the UPF rating, the more effective the sun protection
• UPF 15 allows roughly 7% of UV rays to pass through
• UPF 30 allows roughly 3% of UV rays to pass through
• UPF 50 allows roughly 2% of UV rays to pass through
• UPF 50+ allows less than 2% of UV rays to pass through

UPF Clothing Materials

• Hot weather: Choose lightweight, moisture-wicking UPF garments
• Cold weather: Choose UPF-rated merino wool or synthetic base warmer layers