Our Responsible Packing List for More Sustainable Hiking and Outdoor Clothing

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Our editors have curated a head-to-toe list of more sustainable outdoor brands so that you can go on your next hike respecting the folks, critters, and environment you encounter along the way.

Strap your boots on for better hiking brands

There’s not a doubt in our minds that if we made a poll, there would be a clear split between those who prefer to lay on the sand sunbathing at the beach, and those who are more likely to put a backpack on and go hiking in the mountains or a forest. But did you know you can do both with conscious clothing on? With the right more sustainable outdoor and hiking brands, responsible hiking is more than possible.

You may think it’s easier for those who love the seaside (read: you’re almost naked at the beach, so there are far fewer garments to account for), and you might be right. But our curated selection of independently rated “Good” and “Great” brands is here to help you find inspo. Mountain and forest lovers, this one is a head-to-toe list of more sustainable outdoor and hiking brands made just for you—so that you can go on your next hike respecting the folks, critters, and environment you encounter, while rocking gear that is better for people, animals, and the planet in its production phase, too.

Head

Whether it’s from the sun or the evening breeze, when hiking it’s always a good idea to protect your noggin. You certainly don’t want your eyes and nose to be too exposed to the high altitudes’ UV-rays (extra tip: do not forget to cover your face with sunscreen, even if it’s overcast), but you’ll also want to keep your ears warm when the temperature drops.

Face and neck

You never know what you’ll find when you get to the top of the mountain. That’s why the first rule when going on a hike is: be prepared and protect yourself.

Not all the neck gaiters are the same, it’s the fabric that makes the difference in protecting you from sun and wind, and in controlling your body temperature.
Try by wearing one of éclipse’s buffs, the perfect response to all conscious hikers’ needs.

Top

For your core, there’s just a few simple rules to follow.
First, dress yourself in layers—again, you never know what the weather conditions will be at different altitudes.

Second, add a pop of colour. It’s not just a matter of trends, it’s for safety: fluro colours are way more visible, and in case of emergencies it’ll be easier for you to be seen if you’re not wearing black or military green.

And last but not least, make sure to keep yourself warm and dry. Bringing a backup tee is a good idea, but you can also prevent excessive sweating by choosing to wrap your body in the right fabrics.

Bottom

While it depends on where you’re going, when on a hike your legs are usually the part of your body that is most exposed to small injuries and scratches. Remember that first rule for hikers? Be prepared and protect yourself. So, here we go with the perfect hiking pants made from a light, stretchy softshell that will last for years of hard use. The brand also sells shorts in the same vein so you’re prepared no matter the weather.

Feet

Treating your feet right when on a hike is crucial to prevent dis-eases that can turn your adventure into a dis-aster. It’s not only about picking the right pair of shoes (go for ankle hiking boots if you feel like you need more stability, or leave your ankles free if you aim more for lightweight), it’s also about the right socks—cause you certainly don’t want your toes to be wet (and smell bad), and heel blisters are the worst.

Underwear

When doing sports, whether it’s yoga or jogging or going on a hike, it is crucial to wear comfortable and breathable underwear. Keep it simple and go for something that supports you in all the right places while still staying fresh on top, and keeps you dry on the bottom.

Bags

Bringing your own water bottle as an alternative to single use plastic is a good start, but you can do more: even your backpack can be made by a more sustainable outdoor brand that takes care of people, animals, and the planet. Let’s have a look at these more conscious options for your hike—there’s one for each scenario, whether you’re carrying the world on your shoulders or you’re lucky enough to have a hiking companion who does that for you.

Editor's note

Feature image via Unsplash, all other images via brands mentioned. Good On You publishes the world’s most comprehensive ratings of fashion brands’ impact on people, the planet and animals. We love to recommend some of the best more sustainable brands, rated "Good" or "Great". We also encourage shopping pre-owned as another great way to reduce the impact of our fashion choices. Use our directory to search thousands of rated brands.