Should I Wear Long Sleeves Hiking in the Summer?

Hiking in the hot summer months can be a challenge. You want to stay cool and comfortable, but you also want to ensure you are protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. The question of whether or not to wear long sleeves hiking in the summer is a difficult one with no clear cut answer.

On one hand, long sleeves provide excellent sun protection.

They keep your skin covered and can help prevent sunburns and skin damage, as well as insect bites. Long sleeves also give you an extra layer of warmth if you’re hiking in cool weather or up high in the mountains. Finally, they can protect you from scratches and abrasions while bushwhacking through thick foliage or scrambling over rocks and other terrain.

On the other hand, long sleeves can make it much harder to stay cool. They trap heat and moisture close to your body, leading to uncomfortable sweating and chafing. If you’re hiking in extreme heat, this can be dangerous as it increases your risk for heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

So what should you do? The best choice depends on a variety of factors including your personal preferences, the weather conditions, and the length of your hike.

If it’s very hot out or if you’re going on a long hike, then wearing shorts and a light t-shirt may be the best option for keeping cool. However, if you’re only going on a short hike or if there’s any chance of getting chilled during your excursion (such as at night), then wearing long sleeves may be beneficial for warmth and sun protection.

Conclusion: Ultimately, whether or not to wear long sleeves hiking in the summer is up to personal preference. Consider all factors before making your decision so that you can stay safe and comfortable while enjoying nature!

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Chris Powell