When you step into the wilderness, you want to be comfortable. Bushwalking can be strenuous enough without the added barrier of discomfort. There is a simple way that you can reduce discomfort, especially when it comes to your clothing – layers.
Each time you go out will be different due to things such as weather, climate and season. But when you dress for a bushwalk, you want to keep layers in mind. Typically there are 3 layers:
Base – your first layer of clothing (as in closest to your skin) – is there to keep you dry.
Mid – your next layer of clothing – this layer is all about keeping yourself warm.
Shell – the final layer – the idea here is to keep you and your other layers protected from the elements.
Now you understand the fundamentals, let’s discuss each layer in more detail.
Base Layer
Convertible Pants with “wicking” technology I typically wear in the bush
The main thing to consider about this layer is sweat – gross right!? The idea is to keep the sweat off your skin and in your clothing, this will insulate your body. There are two main types of fabrics that implement this and they are: wool (more specifically merino wool), and synthetics. Now I have opened a can of worms! There is great debate among hikers over wool and synthetics.
Without going into too much detail I will summarise the main differences:
Wool – More expensive than synthetics but expels much less odour. Wool is also better at regulating your temperature but is slower to dry.
Synthetics – Less expensive than wool but they can give off a strong odour (to the detriment of those around you!). Super quick to dry but loses a little temperature regulating ability.
Shirt with “wicking” technology I typically wear in the bush
So which one is better? From most reports, they are pretty well on par. Although given the frequency that the debate comes up, it does depend on who you ask! As explained above there are a few differences and it comes down to your preferences and your budget.
I generally wear synthetics – a T-shirt and pants (as shown in pics), both designed with ‘wicking’ technology that keeps me dry but insulates my body as well. In cooler weather you could wear merino thermals instead.
Mid Layer
As highlighted before, the mid layer is all about keeping warm. Most commonly wool, synthetics and down jackets are worn for this layer.
Once again, as with base layers, there are positives and negatives worth considering with each type of fabric. It will just come down to what you prefer. Go and try them on, feel their weight and ask your local stores for info. They will help you find out what’s best for you.
I generally wear synthetics for this layer, but I haven’t exactly personally tested too much in the way of mid layers.
Shell Layer
Waterproof Jacket I typically wear in the bush
This is all about protecting you from the elements. A good shell layer can make a huge difference to comfort, especially when that rain sets in. Getting a good quality shell layer is usually fairly expensive but as with most of the hiking gear you will buy, it usually lasts ages (especially if you look after it). You can see how to look after your gear at Top Tips to Make Your Gear Last Longer.
You really want to buy something that will offer both great protection from rain and/or snow but is also breathable. There is nothing worse than bushwalking when you have your own ecosystem living in the humidity of your clothing! Good, breathable technologies like Goretex, eVent and Hydranaute are the front-runners in this field.
Wrapping up
Ok to wrap up (and I’m not talking about your mid layer here!), I will reiterate – it is all about layers. What you wear will depend strongly on the conditions where you are walking, but if you keep in mind this notion of layers and dress accordingly, you will be able to suit your clothing to your needs.
Hats, gloves and beanies can be worn too if you’re so inclined. I like wearing a hat as it helps keep the sun off me too.
Although I am a fan of neutral colours, it is worth considering going for bright colours. This will help you be seen, especially if emergency services are looking for you.
If you liked the information in this post, you may also like the information in these posts:
Step Into The Wilderness 