If you have been wondering what to wear hiking in the fall, the key thing to remember is layers.
As the weather is transitioning, you’ll need to be able to add or remove warmth swiftly while on the trail.
Another vital consideration with fall hiking clothes is to choose garments that give the right balance between warmth and breathability. If you’re unsure how to do this, fear not.
Here we will break down each item of clothing you need for your autumn hikes and share our favorite fall hiking outfits with you.
Fall Hiking Outfits For Women
Let’s start with the best fall hiking outfits for women. Depending on the hike, and the destination, you may need to add extra layers.
Footwear
Let’s start with the most vital item of any hiking outfit; footwear. A comfy, supportive, and well-fitted pair of hiking boots is essential, as are good-quality socks that will keep your feet warm, dry, and blister-free.
If you have flat feet, make sure to read our guide on the best hiking boots for flat feet.
Durable, Waterproof Hiking Boots
As fall can often bring heavy rainfalls, waterproof boots with a firm grip and high traction like the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus hiking boots are what you need. The Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber sole lets you hike with confidence and ease in different terrains and conditions.
In addition, they have a seam-sealed waterproof construction to keep your feet dry and a lightweight cushioned midsole to give you a bounce in your step.
Another excellent option is the Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof hiking boots. They feature an innovative design to seal out water and allow moisture to escape, so your feet stay dry all day long.
They also have a very durable rubber sole that gives the utmost stability and slip-resistance, even in wet conditions.
Wool Socks
I adore these 70% Merino Wool crew socks from NEVSNEV as they keep you warm when it is cold, yet they are breathable, so they will keep you cool on warm fall days too.
In addition, they are lightweight, stretchy, and have a cushioned arch for maximum comfort. Another great plus is that they are made with anti-odor yarn to keep your feet smelling fresh.
Pants
I find fall is the ideal time to switch to a high-quality pair of all-weather versatility leggings like the Eddie Bauer trail tight leggings. Firstly, they are made specifically for hiking and outdoor activities, so they are much more durable than yoga pants. You can browse more hiking legging options here.
The trail-tight leggings have a good level of thickness, too, just enough to keep you warm but maintaining plenty of breathability with their FreeDry moisture-wicking design.
They also feature UPF 50+ sun protection for those sunny autumn days, odor control, and stretchy fabric.
Another must-have pair of pants for your spring and fall hiking outfits is these jogger pants by SMENG. These hiking sweatpants are ideal for the shoulder seasons as they keep your legs warm and covered. Even so, they are very breathable, thanks to their quick-drying and elastic fabric.
However, as they are relatively thin, I don’t recommend wearing them once winter arrives. Still, they make the perfect waterproof autumn hiking pants.
Tops
All your autumn hiking outfits should consist of a base layer (short sleeve tee) and a mid-layer (long-sleeve top), along with an outer layer (jacket or hoody), for when the temperature drops.
For your base layer, I recommend something like the Merinotech merino wool t-shirt. As it’s made from super-soft merino wool, it feels comfortable against your skin and keeps you warm. Even so, it won’t cause you to overheat as it has moisture-wicking and odor-resistant properties.
Another fabulous base layer option is the Neleus 3 pack compression dry-fit tank top. This value for money bundle will give you base layers for three fall hiking outfits.
I love the tight fit of these tanks; the material hugs close to your skin to maintain warmth, yet the fabric is super stretchy, so it does not restrict your movement at all.
They are also very breathable and moisture-wicking to keep you cool or warm and always dry.
For your mid-layer, opt for the Willit UPF 50+ long sleeve shirt. So often, when the temperature cools, we forget about protecting our skin from the sun’s rays. However, the sun can still be intense during the fall, so a mid-layer with UPF protection like this one is ideal.
The fabric is also lightweight and breathable. It has flatlock seams and no tag for maximum comfort and zero itchings.
Jacket
When planning what to wear hiking in fall (especially closer to winter), I like to have two different outer layers: a hooded sweater for warmth and comfort and a lightweight, waterproof jacket for the season’s unpredictable weather.
This pullover running hoodie from HMILES is perfect for fall hiking. It has thumb holes giving extra warmth to your hands in windy conditions and an adjustable hooded cowl neck with a windproof design.
What’s more, because it’s lightweight and relatively thin, it makes a valuable mid-layer for winter hiking too!
The Diamond Candy hiking rain jacket is another essential item when it comes to hiking clothes for fall. It is waterproof and windproof with a large hood that you can adjust to get the protection you require from unpleasant weather conditions.
The hiking rain jacket has a soft, fuzzy lining that retains your body heat and creates a cozy sensation. Even so, the outer shell is lightweight, so you never feel like you are being weighed down.
There’s also plenty of waterproof zip pockets for the safe storage of your valuables.
Accessories
Once you’ve decided on your fall hiking clothes, you can turn your attention to the accessories you need for hiking this season. Accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves are helpful, especially towards the end of fall when the temperatures steadily decrease.
Thermal Beanie
The FURTALK women’s knit beanie is made from stretchy, flexible acrylic to fit all head shapes, covering the ears for total protection from wind and cold weather.
The knit hat is soft and cozy, giving a snug fit, and it’s small and lightweight, so it will not take up much space in your day pack.
This beanie made the list of the best hiking hats for women too!
Thermal Gloves
These Achiou touch screen knit gloves will keep your fingers warm when out in chilly conditions, such as in the early morning or on a sunset hike. They feature a soft, warm thermal lining with a four-way stretch, allowing you to grab onto rocks and branches as you ascend.
The Achiou gloves also have a unique anti-slip palm to give you a much-needed grip when climbing. What’s more, the thumb, forefinger, and middle finger have a touch-sensitive design.
This allows you to use your smartphone’s camera to capture the beautiful views without having to take your gloves off.
Day Pack
Something you need when trekking in any season is a good quality, comfortable day pack. However, when hiking in the fall, you’ll need to take a few extra layers of clothing with you to adjust to any temperature change, as well as your other accessories.
Therefore, you might prefer to opt for a 30-40L backpack instead of a 10-20L one.
I love the Venture Pal 40L daypack as it’s spacious, lightweight, and highly durable against the elements such as rain. It’s made from water-resistant nylon and has extra stitching at the major stress points to improve longevity.
Plus, it has breathable mesh padded shoulder straps and a chest clip to distribute the weight and prevent back pain.
Water Bottle
You may find you don’t need quite so much water when hiking in the autumn compared to the hot summer months. However, it’s still essential to carry a sufficient amount of water for the hike’s duration.
I love this DEVICO 32oz water bottle as it has time and capacity markings prompting you to keep drinking throughout your walk.
Suggested Outfits
Now, let’s make up some cute fall outfits for women. We created three different looks if you’re searching for inspiration.
Ultimate Coziness
If autumn already feels like winter where you are, opt for a fleece-lined sweater and leggings to feel warm and snug no matter what. For the bottoms, choose the XIEERDUO fleece-lined water-resistant hiking leggings in deep burgundy.
With a slim fit design and high waistband, they are stylish yet functional, as they’re water-resistant and thermal.
Combine them with the Kisscynest zip fleece jacket in black or khaki. This gorgeous jacket has fluffy fleece fabric, an internal wind flap, and a water-repellent finish. Then, match the coat with these Geddard waterproof ankle boots in the same colour for a cute and cozy fall look.
Ready For Action
Prepare yourself for autumn’s unpredictable climate with this functional yet cute fall hiking outfit. For the bottom, combine BALEAF’s moisture-wicking, breathable olive green hiking leggings with the durable, all-terrain Columbia newton ridge plus hiking boots in shark/hither green.
Up top, pair the MERIWOOL merino wool thermal sweater with the fashionable ZHEN WEI beige rain jacket. This raincoat is waterproof, lightweight, and has an adjustable drawstring ruched waistband for a flattering fit.
Autumnal Tones
Blend in with the fall foliage with these beautiful red and gold shades. Start with the lightweight, water-resistant, and quick-drying hiking pants from Gopune in dusty red. Pair with the silky and breathable fabric of the Willit UPF 50+ long sleeve shirt in orange and the Fuinloth quilted gilet in camel/gold for extra warmth.
Fall Hiking Outfits For Men
Now, it’s time to discuss the best fall hiking outfits for men. Note that depending on the hike and destination, you may need to add more layers.
Footwear
Enduring wet feet while hiking is unpleasant in any season. However, as the temperature drops, damp toes and soggy shoes can cause your body temperature to drop quickly too.
Therefore, no matter how warm and waterproof your fall hiking clothes are, you won’t reap their benefits without high-quality hiking boots and socks.
Rugged, Waterproof Hiking Boots
Most hiking boots consist of different materials and layers, and often, only part of the construction is waterproof. However, this is not the case with the Timberland White Ledge mid-ankle boots, which have a 100% waterproof construction.
They feature a full-grain waterproof leather upper along with seam-sealed waterproof all-over protection and rustproof lacing. These tough leather boots also have a durable rubber sole, padded collar for ankle protection, and removable dual-density EVA footbed.
Another fantastic footwear option is the XPETI Thermator mid-rise insulated boots. These are also fully waterproof with a water-resistant mesh upper and X-DRY waterproof membrane. However, what’s so special about these is the highly sturdy, non-slip rubber sole with aggressive traction that can handle any trail conditions you find yourself facing.
What’s more, the boots are made from Thinsulate material, providing insulation for temperatures up to -13°F.
Merino Wool Socks
I like the merino wool and nylon blend of these ONKE moisture-wicking thermal socks as they have plenty of ventilation along with moisture control.
Moreover, they have a thermal construction with heavily cushioned protection for extreme softness and warmth, reducing the chance of experiencing any foot pain or blisters. They will keep you dry and toasty but prevent any sweat build up as they keep the air circulating.
Pants
It’s time to put your hiking shorts in the closet and switch to a warmer pair of hiking bottoms that will protect you from the elements. These lightweight fleece cargo pants from YAWHO offer what you need.
They feature a soft fleece lining, lightweight, breathable fabric, and a softshell surface layer that is water and wind-resistant. In addition, should you get caught in a downpour, these pants will prevent the rain from seeping through to your skin for about 10-15 minutes, giving you ample time to find a large tree as shelter.
These FREE SOLDIER tactical pants are another essential garment for your fall hiking outfits. As well as having a water repellent, quick-drying DuPont Teflon coating, they protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays. Plus, the high elasticity fabric gives plenty of movement, and the reinforced articulating knee design increases durability and flexibility.
Tops
When it comes to tops, your autumn hiking outfits should include short sleeve and long sleeve tops, which act as the base layer. You should then have a few sweaters/hoodies, which can be a mid or top layer, depending on the temperature.
As we transition from summer to fall, I recommend a short sleeve base layer like the Under Armour HeatGear tactical compression t-shirt. This compression tee uses innovative moisture-wicking properties and breathable fabric. Therefore, should the weather become warmer than expected, this top will keep you cool and dry.
I also love how soft the material feels, and the compression design gives the best next-to-skin comfort.
For the tail end of fall, I recommend the Carhartt base force midweight crew top. This long-sleeve tee has a waffle-knit style to trap and maintain body heat. At the same time, it uses FastDry technology to rapidly wick away sweat and fight odors, keeping you feeling warm, dry, and fresh.
Furthermore, it’s rugged and durable, allows your arms a complete range of movement, and has smooth flatlock seams and tagless labels for zero irritation.
The 100-weight sweater fleece of the Marmot drop line 1/2 zip pullover will keep you warm when hiking early in the morning or after sunset.
However, you don’t have to worry about overheating as you move either, as the DriClime-lined collar wicks away any sweat around the neck. It’s also incredibly comfy, chafe-free, lightweight, making it the perfect autumn mid-layer.
Jackets
You don’t need a thick, heavy jacket for autumn hiking like you might wear in the middle of winter. Instead, a thin, lightweight, waterproof coat is sufficient.
The OTU hooded rain jacket is an excellent option that features premium water-resistant shell fabric with Watertight IV technology.
Plus, as well as preventing rain from getting through, it blocks out the wind. It also gives good breathability, is lightweight, and can fold up to a compact size, small enough to fit in your day pack when it’s not needed.
Another worthy contender for your fall hiking wardrobe is this windproof, breathable shell coat from Little Donkey Andy. As well as a 100% waterproof shell, the zipper closure is entirely water-resistant, too, ensuring you stay dry, even in heavy downpours.
The jacket has a 3-layer construction that finds the perfect balance between warmth and breathability. The DWR Tech nylon shell is super lightweight, while the mid-layer gives breathability and further water resistance.
Then, the inner mesh lining wicks away moisture and maintains good airflow. In addition, it has many wind-resistant design features, including adjustable velcro cuffs, a windproof hood, full zipper closure, and an elastic drawstring hem.
Accessories
Once you’ve decided on your fall hiking clothes, you can turn your attention to the accessories you need for hiking this season.
Accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves are helpful, especially towards the end of fall when the temperatures steadily decrease.
Thermal Wool Beanie
Aside from hiking clothes for fall, there are a few additional accessories that you will want to have in your day pack. The first is a thermal wool beanie to keep your head and ears warm.
This is especially important if you are hiking mountains with significant elevation where you will likely encounter stronger winds.
This MERIWOOL beanie hat has an adjustable roll cuff ear band giving you ears and head full coverage. It’s made from 100% all-natural superfine 18.5-micron Merino wool.
Therefore, it not only feels super warm, trapping heat inside, but it’s incredibly soft and comfortable to wear too. You can wear it all day without feeling any itching or scratching sensations.
Plus, the wool’s natural moisture-wicking and odor-resistant properties will keep you dry and fresh.
Read all about the best hiking beanies here.
Windproof Gloves
Another essential autumn hiking accessory is warm, windproof gloves like these OZERO thermal touch screen gloves. They are water and wind-resistant with an additional TPU component for protection in the harshest weather conditions. In addition, they have non-slip silicone particles on the palm, index finger, and middle finger, giving traction for gripping rocks or branches.
Day Pack
As you’ll be taking a few extra layers and accessories on your hikes in the fall, I recommend opting for a 30-40L backpack to ensure you have sufficient space.
I like the G4Free 35L hiking backpack as it’s made from water-resistant materials and comes with a rain cover for additional protection in heavier rainfall.
Thanks to the thick padded shoulder straps and elastic, breathable back support, this day pack is also so comfy that you can wear it all day with ease.
These design features give consistent ventilation and relieve stress on your upper body.
Suggested Outfits
We created three different fall outfits for men if you need inspiration. So, let’s get started!
Functional Yet Fashionable
For a practical and stylish look, opt for the FREE SOLDIER thick fabric suede leather breathable tactical boots in tan/stone. They are lightweight yet durable and have a waterproof coating.
Pair these with the PULI slim-fit cargo pants in dark khaki. Their slim-fit design gives them a stylish look, but they remain stretchy with a full range of movement. The Marmot drop line pullover in steel onyx looks fab with these pants and boots.
Wilderness Worthy
Prepare for a day in the wildness with this stylish outfit that will keep you protected come rain or shine. Combine the Timberland white ledge mid-ankle boots in wheat/tan with these BenBoy waterproof, windproof fleece cargo pants in black and this Gopune softshell fleece-lined waterproof jacket in navy blue.
This lightweight jacket has a warm fleece lining, a waterproof shell, and enough durability to withstand muddy and wet terrains.
Adventure-Ready
If you’re planning to tackle a challenging trail or steer off track into unknown terrain, grab the XPETI Thermator non-slip, high-traction boots in black and FREE SOLDIER flexible, water repellent cargo pants in olive green. Combine these with the CRYSULLY slim-fit tactical pullover in khaki.
Then, this Outdoor Ventures windproof fleece-lined sleeveless jacket makes the perfect companion as it traps heat but allows airflow while sealing out the elements.
Final Thoughts On Fall Hiking Outfit Ideas
Hopefully, this guide has given you plenty of ideas of what to wear hiking in the fall to stay warm and dry.
These fall hiking outfits combine the functional features needed when hiking in the autumn with style and comfort.
Therefore, no matter the weather this fall, you can head out on your favorite trail looking and feeling your best!
