Hiking Clothing & Layers

Base layers, insulation, rain gear, and outdoor apparel for every condition

Cotton kills, merino doesn't stink, and a good rain jacket is worth every penny when the sky opens up. We test clothing systems from budget synthetics to premium merino, focusing on what actually performs in real conditions - not just what looks good in the catalog.

Our Top Picks

Best Base Layer

Smartwool Merino 150

Comfortable, doesn't stink, regulates temp well.

Best Rain Jacket

Outdoor Research Helium

6.4 oz, packs tiny, actually breathable.

Best Puffy

Patagonia Nano Puff

Synthetic insulation that works when wet.

Layering System Guide

The Three Layer System

  • Base Layer: Wicks moisture away. Merino or synthetic, never cotton.
  • Mid Layer: Provides insulation. Fleece or down/synthetic puffy.
  • Shell Layer: Blocks wind and rain. Hardshell or softshell.

Merino vs Synthetic

  • Merino Wool: Naturally antimicrobial, great temp regulation, slower to dry
  • Synthetic: Dries faster, more durable, can get stinky

Price Ranges

Budget base layers: $20-40. Quality merino: $60-100. Rain jackets: $100-300. A solid 3-layer system runs $200-400.