Read this tip to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Hiking Apparel and other Hiking topics.
Sierra Trading Post Tip: Layering hiking clothes helps keep the body cool in summer and warm in winter, but hiking clothes should offer protection, as well. At least one layer of your clothing should offer protection, such as padding or reinforcement to protect from chafing and natural elements on the trail. Women's hiking clothes should offer additional protection in sensitive areas, as well.
Carrying backpacks and other gear can chafe the skin and wear or tear clothing, which is another reason good hiking clothes have padding and reinforcement in heavy use areas. Rough terrain can be hard on hiking clothes, so make sure you invest in high quality hiking clothes that will take on tough conditions and still last for many seasons.