What to wear hiking | Club Randomania

To handle the terrain and changing mountain weather with peace of mind, the rule is simple: wear three complementary layers rather than one thick garment. Each has a specific role — wicking moisture, keeping warmth, protecting from the weather — and can be adjusted independently according to effort and conditions.

Example: Imlil → Toubkal summit

On the same day, between the start and the summit, the temperature difference can be striking — a textbook case for the 3-layer system.

Imlil — 1,740 m Mild, sometimes warm Layer 1 is often enough

Summit — 4,167 m Close to 0°C, strong wind All 3 layers become necessary

Over the 2,427 m of elevation gain between Imlil and the summit, the temperature can drop sharply. You start light (layer 1), add layer 2 as you gain altitude, and layer 3 becomes essential near the summit, facing the wind and cold.

1 Base layerComfort & moisture management

2 Mid layerThermal insulation

3 Outer layerWeather protection

Comfort & moisture management

Purpose: Keep your skin dry and wick away sweat while staying comfortable.
Materials: Synthetic fabrics (polyester, polyamide) or merino wool — never cotton, which holds moisture and dries slowly.
Examples: Technical T-shirt or base layer, short or long sleeves depending on the temperature.
Benefit: By staying dry, you avoid feeling cold from moisture, especially when you stop.

Thermal insulation

Purpose: Keep your body heat while letting moisture from the first layer escape.
Materials: Fleece, wool or down jacket. Fleece is breathable, light and dries quickly; a down jacket is warmer but less effective when damp.
Examples: Fleece jacket, wool jumper or light down jacket.
Benefit: Adjustable to conditions: add it or take it off depending on effort and temperature.

Weather protection

Purpose: Protect against wind, rain or snow, while letting sweat escape.
Materials: Waterproof, breathable jackets (Gore-Tex or similar): they block rain and wind without a “sauna” effect.
Examples: Waterproof, windproof and breathable jacket and overtrousers.
Benefit: Your body stays dry and sheltered from the elements throughout the trip.

Adapting the system to conditions

Lower body: the same principle applies — technical leggings (1st layer), hiking trousers (2nd layer), waterproof overtrousers (3rd layer) in rain or strong wind.
Flexibility: start light and add a layer when you stop or when the temperature drops — no need to wear everything from the start.
Managing effort: for intense effort, start with lighter layers and adjust along the way to avoid overheating or excessive sweating.

Extra tips

Accessories: don't forget gloves, a hat and proper hiking socks — essential to keep your extremities warm.
Packing: always keep a jacket or jumper in your bag to quickly add a layer if the weather changes or during breaks.
Adaptability: every hike is different — adjust your gear to the place, the season and the specific conditions of the trip.

With this methodical approach, you'll stay comfortable and protected on all your hikes, in every season. 🤙🥾