Did you know that around 60 million people in the United States hit the trails every year? With so many hikers, picking the right fabric for your gear is key. Cotton could be great for everyday clothes type, but definitely it is not the best for hiking. You’ve probably heard the saying, “cotton kills,” which warns about its dangers in different weather.
It’s important for hikers to know the difference between cotton and other materials. These differences really affect how well they manage moisture and keep you comfortable in it. So if you are asking yourself ‘Should I Wear Cotton Clothing While Hiking?‘, we have the answer! For more info on why cotton might not be the best choice, check out this article on why cotton can be problematic.
Table of Contents
We’re gonna discuss the disadvantages of wearing cotton during hiking, the advantages of other fabrics and how to choose the right one.
Key Takeaways
- Hiking needs moisture-wicking materials for comfort and safety.
- Cotton soaks up water, gets heavy, and takes a long time to dry, which can be dangerous on hikes.
- Materials like polyester and nylon work better than cotton for hiking.
- Layering your clothes helps you adjust to the weather changes.
- Choose hiking socks made from synthetic materials to avoid blisters.
- Comfortable and breathable fabrics make hiking more enjoyable.
- Knowing about fabric types is key to picking the right hiking clothes.
Understanding the Risks of Cotton in Hiking Apparel
There are some things that hikers should consider in this case and one of them is the fact that cotton should not be used in the production of their gear. Cotton fabric is very good at absorbing water and this can have an impact on one’s performance out there. Cotton on the other hand soaks up moisture and is not very good at wicking it away, which leaves one feeling uncomfortable.
The Absorbent Nature of Cotton
Cotton absorbs a lot of water, making it hard to stay comfortable in different weather. When you’re hiking, you need fabrics that take moisture away from your skin. Cotton feels good at first but gets heavy and wet when you sweat or get caught in the rain. This is different from breathable outdoor clothing made from synthetic materials that dry quickly.
Wet Cotton and Hypothermia
Wet cotton is a big risk in cold weather. When wet it fails to insulate your body and allows the heat to escape from your body out into the cold. This can lead to hypothermia even in mild cold making this organ to act as the main regulator of body temperature. This means that wearing cotton or the synthetic hiking cloth can really show us the difference between being safe and warm.
Effects on Comfort and Performance
Wearing wet cotton can lead to hypothermia and since cotton takes time to dry it leads to the formation of blisters and chafing. This makes hiking not as much fun. When in a need of comfort and performance opt for the materials used in production of moisture management garments in outdoor wears. It is made from synthetic fabrics that are breathable and moisture wicking to make you as dry as you are when on your journey.
For more information on choosing the right hiking clothes, check out this helpful article.
Should I Wear Cotton Clothing While Hiking?
Choosing the right clothes for hiking is key to be comfortable and safe during harsh conditions. Cotton has some benefits of wearing cotton while hiking. But, it also has limits that can be effective during your hiking experience.
Cotton’s Poor Moisture Management
It is also bad for controlling sweat since it absorbs it which is not good when hiking. It becomes ineffective when it gets wet. This can result to hypothermia especially if the environmental conditions are cold. Cotton also becomes wet and this makes you to feel more weighted and you easily get tired.
Unlike moisture-wicking gear, cotton holds moisture for a long time. This can cause discomfort, leading to blisters and skin issues. While some like cotton for its softness, it doesn’t perform well in changing weather. For better options, check out choosing the right hiking gear.
Sun Protection Limitations
Cotton is not very good in blocking the sun’s rays and has a low UPF factor. It is even worst when it is wet as it provides no protection against the sun rays and one is at the risk of being sunburned. Cotton is very fluffy and that is very comfortable but synthetic materials are more durable than cotton.
This can result in damage or tears when one is using them on rough terrains especially during hiking. To increase the protection and durability, it is advisable to go for synthetic materials such as Merino wool and polyester. These materials dry up very fast, they also help you against the sun and make hiking fun for you. An option for a shirt is a poly-cotton blend because it is comfortable as well as versatile.
| Clothing Type | Moisture Management | Sun Protection | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Poor | Low UPF | Low |
| Nylon/Polyester | Excellent | High UPF | High |
| Merino Wool | Good | Moderate UPF | Moderate |
| Polycotton Blend | Good | Moderate UPF | High |
Understanding cotton’s limits is key to picking the right hiking clothes. Choosing items that manage moisture well and protect from the sun is crucial for a safe, fun hike.
Alternatives to Cotton for Hiking
When it comes to hiking it is well advised to stay away from cotton if one wants to be comfortable and safe. However, opt for Merino wool and not cotton because it is preferred when hiking. It does a good job at regulating moisture and it is warm when wet which is helpful in the winter.
Other options include synthetic materials such as polyester and nylon which are also perfect. They dry easily, they are lightweight and do not absorb water. This make hiking more enjoyable. Brands also sell long-lasting hiking clothes that are developed with new technologies that help in increasing breathability as well as sturdiness.
For apparels that are versatile enough to be worn in various weathers, it is quite appropriate to layer. You should use insulation and protection at the same time. Down is a good insulator and is lightweight, fleece and synthetic fibers are good for use in wet environments. Hats and liners made of fleece or Merino wool provide additional shield to the head thus making hiking safe and enjoyable. Check out this useful site for more gear tips.
