Should You Wear Cotton When Hiking?

When it comes to hiking, the question of whether to wear cotton or not is a debatable one. On the one hand, cotton is a natural and breathable material that can help keep you cool in hot weather. On the other hand, it can take a long time to dry if it gets wet, making it less than ideal for hikes through humid climates or in rainy conditions.

Cotton’s breathability is certainly an advantage when you’re out on the trail. But if you sweat heavily or get caught in a downpour, your cotton clothing can become saturated and heavy. This makes it difficult to move around and ultimately compromises your safety as well as your comfort levels.

Synthetic materials such as nylon and polyester have become more popular for hiking in recent years. They are quick drying and lightweight, making them ideal for hikes in wetter climates. They also tend to be more durable than cotton fabrics – so if you’re planning a multi-day hike, they may be the better choice.

The type of climate you’ll be hiking in should also be taken into account when deciding what fabric to wear on your hike. Cotton may be suitable for drier climates but is likely to cause discomfort in humid or wetter areas due to its slow drying time. On the other hand, synthetic fabrics are better suited for areas with higher humidity levels as they dry quickly and don’t hold onto moisture as much as cotton does.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, whether or not you should wear cotton when hiking depends largely on where you will be going and what type of climate you will encounter during your trek. If you are going out in hot weather then cotton may be comfortable but if there is any chance of rain then synthetic fabrics might be better suited for the task due to their quick-drying capabilities and improved durability compared to cotton fabrics.

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Samantha Mckinney