Chaos Hiking Clothing

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

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

Select your sock height

• No-show: Minimal protection; best with low-cut footwear like trail-running or light hiking shoes
• Ankle: Covers your ankle bone; best for low- to mid-cut shoes and boots
• Crew: Extends above ankle; good for boots or shoes
• Knee-high: Provides warmth and protection against high-cut boots

Choose your preferred cushioning level

• None: Ultralight; ideal for hot weather or as sock liners
• Light: Thin cushioning; better for warm conditions
• Medium: Targeted cushioning in the heel and ball; ideal for moderate to cold conditions
• Heavy: Thickest and most cushioned; best for long trips, rugged terrain and cold

Select a fabric

• Choose moisture-wicking, quick-drying materials like wool, polyester or nylon
• Spandex adds stretch to prevent bunching
• Cotton isn't recommended as it absorbs moisture and dries slowly

Find your fit

• Choose based on your foot size, not shoe size.
• If you're between sizes, size down to avoid excess material that can bunch up and cause blisters.
• Socks should feel snug but not tight, and the sock's heel cup should naturally line up with your heel.

Fabrics

• Synthetic: moisture-wicking, quick drying, durable, but can hold on to odor
• Wool: moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, cooling in warm weather, can be less durable

Styles

• Bikini: less rear coverage, thinner waistband, higher-cut leg
• Briefs (women's): full-cut briefs offer more coverage in front and back; hipsters offer medium front coverage and back with higher rise

• Briefs (men's): close fit and good support, but less thigh coverage

• Boxer brief or boy shorts: snug fit, good coverage, longer cut extends down to the upper thigh
• Boxers: looser fit, added coverage can prevent chafing but prone to bunching
• Thongs: lightweight and quick-drying but provide the least coverage
• Sports bras: compression and support during high-output activities like hiking and running