Advice for good hiking shirts/layers

[Pipcam]

Hello!

I need some hiking clothing advice if possible! My husband and I are doing a hike in the Scottish Highlands next September. We are going at the end of the month and I understand the weather can be sketchy. I have purchased a weatherproof jacket for him from here but what are some good layers for underneath? We are new to the hiking world so any info helps!

Thank you!!

Julie

[REI-JenK]

@Pipcam outside of the possible "sketchiness" of the weather, your trip sounds like an amazing adventure!

We have a great Expert Advice article on what to wear hiking, which will give some high-level themes on layering and materials to wear/not to wear. Here are a few specific suggestions as well:

• A waterproof outer layer is a great place to start, and it sounds like you're all set here! This layer will not only protect against water but also wind; you might even consider a thin pair of waterproof pants, as they're small to pack and can significantly increase comfort if the weather is cold/wet/windy.
• In the middle, we typically recommend a thin insulated layer - anything with a little "puff" to it, as the insulation traps your body heat and helps keep you warm. You can consider either down or synthetic insulation - something like the REI Co-op 650 Down, Patagonia Nano Puff, or Arc'teryx Atom would be great options! 
• Closest to your skin should be your base layer - either wool or synthetic (definitely not cotton) - to keep you warm and wick moisture away from your skin. You might consider a midweight - Smartwool, Patagonia and REI all offer great options - and you can also go to a heavyweight or lightweight, depending on the temperatures you're expecting.

We hope this helps to get you started; if you'd like to chat with an REI employee about your trip, we do offer free virtual outfitting appointments. Also, feel free to post again with follow-up questions, and we expect you'll get other advice from members of our community!

[hikermor]

JenK nailed it.  I would just add that I am a fan of fleece full zip  jackets, very easy to adjust to variable conditions.  I also dote on long sleeve synthetic fabric shirts, with at least two pockets - same reason.  I generally prefer a full brim hat - keeps sun or rain off equally well.

[hikermor]

One last thought  Get out and use your stuff several times before your trip.   It really helps to know, and have, confidence in your gear....

[Wanderer]

To add to the excellent advice you've gotten already, keep in mind that weather in the Highlands can be unpredictable year-round. When I was last there, in June 2019, it rained all week with snow, sleet and wind near the mountain peaks. OTOH the last time I was there in September (some years ago) it was warm and sunny the whole time.

So in addition to lots of layers as mentioned above, bring waterproof rain pants, gloves, a fleece cap, etc. You never know. 

[Rob6]

Hi @Pipcam .  So far the responses above are spot-on.  In my opinion, the 3 key things to adhere to is layers, layers, and layers. To elaborate a bit on what @hikermor mentioned, definitely take some "practice" hikes to learn how your body responds to the exertion and the amount of insulation.  I have found that even a moderately strenuous hike can result in my body warming up rather quickly, which can lead to sweating, which can lead to getting chilled.  I hike by the mantra "Be bold; start cold." and carry my puffy and shell layers to throw on as conditions dictate and for when I stop for a snack to keep from getting chilled.

Some of my preferred items are a Patagonia R1 fleece, an Outdoor Research Ferrosi soft-shell jacket, an REI Co-op Xerodry GTX rain jacket, and also the REI 650 Down that @REI-JenK  mentioned.  I also love my Outdoor Research Ferrosi pants, which REI doesn't seem to carry right now.  My base layers are an assortment of wool and synthetic items, of various weights.  I would recommend the lightest weight base-layer suitable for the ambient temperatures you expect to encounter.

I've been to Northern England and Edinburgh in late fall/early winter, and it was chilly, but not bitter cold.  I haven't visited the Highlands yet, but hope to before too long.  Your trip will be amazing, regardless of the weather conditions (or maybe because of them).

Good luck and enjoy!