For outdoors lovers, walking dates are the best kind of dates.
When me and my wife first started seeing each other, some of our most memorable outings involved hiking.
It’s good for your health, offers plenty of time to converse in a relaxed setting and provides you with gorgeous outdoor vistas.
But just what exactly should you be wearing on a walking date?
What to wear on a walking date
Putting your best foot forward, it all comes down to choosing an outfit that’s fashionable yet functional.
Probably the single biggest mistake I see people make when hiking is not placing enough emphasis on comfort. It doesn’t matter how good you look if you’re absolutely hating life 30 minutes in because you’re so uncomfortable.
We’ve even previously seen a woman attempting to summit a peak in high heels…
Now I’m by no means a fashion guru, but I am experienced when it comes to hiking and knowing what gear you should be be wearing when hitting the trail.
Do Wear
Suitable footwear
You should never attempt a hike in casual shoes or sandals. We know this all too well after my girlfriend once slipped in her sandals during a ramble on holiday and gashed open her knee quite badly.
Depending on the hike and time of year, it’s worth lacing up a good pair of walking shoes or hiking boots.
You’d perhaps be surprised at how sleek and stylish walking footwear has gotten over the years – they don’t all look like dad shoes anymore!
Helping you navigate uneven terrain and providing sturdy ankle stability, proper outdoor footwear will make your hiking date more enjoyable, more comfortable and much safer.
Enough layers
Your body temperature and the climate will keep fluctuating throughout the day, so it’s best to wear an outfit that’s layered.
Even in the height of summer, be sure to pack extra layers since the elements can change in an instant; especially if you’re trekking at high altitudes.
Likewise, try bringing layers which can easily be stored away if needed. Anything too heavy or bulky may become a nuisance to carry during your hike.
A sweat-wicking base layer
A lightweight sports t-shirt is a classic base-layer option. An great alternative to cotton – which absorbs sweat and can leave you feeling generally icky – a performance top will wick away sweat and keep you dry.
A fleece
The ideal mid-layer for when the weather gets a bit chilly, a lightweight fleece is both stylish and functional.
Keeping you warm and comfortable, sweatshirts and hoodies are also fine alternate choices.
Waterproofs
Ensuring you stay dry during your walking date is also super important, and that’s where the waterproofs come in.
In winter you can opt for a heavyweight winter coat, while in the hotter months you’d be much better off with a lightweight jacket.
While they admittedly aren’t the most stylish, waterproof over-trousers are also certainly worth bringing along if you’re not confident in the weather.
There are lots of easily packable waterproof trousers on the market – I bought this cheap pair from Go Outdoors which conveniently comes with a tiny bag to store them in.
Comfortable and practical pants
When picking a pair of pants, you’ll want something that avoids chafing and doesn’t limit mobility. Things like hiking trousers, leggings or shorts are preferable.
A hat (or have one handy)
Depending on the weather, bringing along a hat is also sensible. In winter, packing a beanie will keep your head and ears warm while a cap can protect your face from those hot rays beaming down in summer.
Proper walking socks
Without sounding too much like a granddad; a good pair of walking socks are an absolute game changer. They’re ten times more comfortable than cheap cotton socks and you’ll especially notice the difference during longer hikes.
Even when I’m not hiking, you’ll find me wearing walking socks pretty much 24/7 these days!
For more info, be sure to check out our ‘BEST Walking Socks: 4 Brands Every Hiker Should Own’ post.
A backpack/daypack
A quality backpack will hold any extra layers you may be carrying, and it can also conveniently store other supplies such as water, snacks and a first aid kit.
Don’t wear
Old ratty clothes
Rather than owning walking-specific gear, I have heard stories of people simply using old clothing for hiking.
While this may be fine to do when you’re on a relaxed stroll with friends, its by no means ideal for a date setting or proper hike.
Non-specific walking clothing will likely leave you uncomfortable, too cold or sweaty and certainly not looking your best!
Jeans
While jeans are a timeless styling option, unfortunately they’re just not suited for hiking.
They’re restrictive, can cause chafing and lack any kind of waterproof capabilities. Don’t be tempted by them!
Cotton t-shirts
As mentioned earlier, cotton isn’t always the best option since it absorbs sweat and can get quite stinky.
If perspiration could be an issue for you, opt for a quality performance fabric which can wick away moisture and keep you cool (and not smelling)!
What do you wear on a winter walking date?
Following all the advice above, in winter simply opt for more layers that’ll help keep you warm. Feel free to wear a bulkier winter coat to retain heat, while a beanie and gloves are also must-have additions.
What do you wear on a summer walking date?
In summer you can get away with less layers if the weather calls for it.
A cap is an effective way to protect your face from the sun’s rays (especially if you’re exposed at high altitudes), while a lightweight waterproof jacket is worth packing in your backpack just in case rain makes an appearance.
Be considerate
If you’re the one who’s organising the walking activity, it’d be considerate to give your date a heads up on what to wear and what kind of ramble you’ll be doing.
For example, an outfit for a casual walk through the park is obviously completely different than if you were climbing a challenging peak.
More resources
Planning a romantic hike but not sure where to choose? Fret not! Head on over to our ’17 Most Romantic Walks In The UK You MUST Try’ for all the inspiration you need.
Happy walking 🚶🚶