When it comes to hiking, wearing the right clothing is essential to having a safe and enjoyable experience. Pants are often thought of as the go-to choice for most outdoor activities, and while they can be beneficial when hiking, they aren’t always the best option.
There are several factors one should consider when choosing what type of clothing to wear while hiking. The primary factor is the environment you’ll be in.
If you’re hiking in a temperate climate where there is no risk of rain or snowfall, then shorts may be more comfortable and practical than pants. Shorts will keep you cooler and allow for more freedom of movement, which can help prevent heat exhaustion or dehydration.
However, if you’re hiking in an area with cold temperatures or bad weather conditions, then it’s important to opt for pants that are insulated and waterproof. Pants offer extra protection from the elements and can help keep your body warm even in the harshest conditions. Additionally, some pants come with built-in features like pockets for carrying items like water bottles, snacks, or maps.
Another factor to consider is what type of terrain you will be traversing. If you’ll be navigating through rocky areas or areas with dense vegetation, then pants can help protect your legs from scratches or cuts caused by shrubs and branches. Additionally, pants offer extra protection from insects that may be present in certain environments like ticks or mosquitoes.
Ultimately, the decision between wearing shorts or pants while hiking depends on your environment and the type of terrain you will encounter during your trek. If you’re going to a place with mild temperatures and no risk of bad weather conditions, then shorts may be more suitable for comfort and mobility.
However, if you’re going to a place with colder temperatures or bad weather conditions, then it might be best to opt for insulated waterproof pants that can offer extra protection from the elements.
In conclusion: Whether or not one should always wear pants when hiking really depends on their environment and what type of terrain they’ll encounter during their trek. While shorts may provide more comfort and freedom of movement in milder climates with no risk of rain or snowfall, insulated waterproof pants are recommended if there are colder temperatures or bad weather conditions present as they provide extra protection from the elements.
