The Lightheart Gear backpacking dress fits the bill when you want all the benefits of the skirt in a one-piece outfit. In exchange for referring sales, we may receive a small commission through affiliate links. Do they really get what it means to be a female hiker? Kilts: A kilt is a wrap-around,knee-length skirt made out ofpleated tartan cloth that's known to be thick and warm. Any thoughts? Hiking For Her: Hiking tips you can trust! Dresses:Hiking dresses have all the advantages of a skirt along with the added benefit of being seamless. Integrated with Craghoppers Moisture Control our womens walking skirts will keep you feeling comfortable, fresh and ready to hit the trail. Pockets: Yes We do not do sponsored or paid posts. No frills and better for it, the dress is relaxed, quick-drying and easy to style up or down depending on the intended activity. It has Columbias Omni-Freeze and Omni-Shade technologies which means, its designed to keep you cool, dry, and protected by UPF 50 sun protection. Wonderful material! Our womens walking skirts and outdoor dresses are available in the classic safari adventure style with modern fabric technologies built in. Scroll up to view the full range online and order your outdoor favourites today. Because they don't hug legs as shorts do, skirts offer incredible freedom of movement and make it easy to scramble over steep rocks and hop over blown-down trees. dk%nOCNm%BUvt-8SS2dx0!| N^XHG$XVkPPO,^p What sets it apart from all other hiking skirts are the functional cargo pockets and a stretchy yoga-style waist band. It's always a treat to see the latest The latest review was added on July 24, 2022. Price: $78. But to whittle it down to size, try these tips and strategies to choose the best gear for safety and fun on the trail. Weight 160g (5.6 oz) without boy short, 228g (8.0 oz) with boy short. Stores' prices and availability are updated daily. Material: Polyester/Spandex skirt with Semi Compression Mesh (poly/spandex) shorts, Skirt length: 16.5 front, 17.5 back, 7-inch inseam short. REI Outlet - Great deals on outdoor gear and clothing! Built-in Shorts: Yes This free-flowing dress is an ideal option to throw on over a bathing suit after a surf at the beach. Underwear on the AT is another interesting fashion topic. Thanks so much for the great article and great idea! Get epic tips, guides and how-to's in your inbox every two weeks. If you arent quite sold on hiking dresses, but want to try out a hiking skirt, there are many more solid options out there for you Mountain Hardwear, Outdoor Research, Columbia, REI, and so on, seem to all have one or two good options. Whether you choose womens travel skirts with NosiLife anti-insect technology, or a womens outdoor dress to battle against hot climates, youll be spoilt for choice this season at Craghoppers. OK, that does it. I prized it for its supreme ventilation, simplicity, functionality, durability, comfort, and quick-drying materials. Gotcha covered for all hiking skirt options. Not only should you pay attention to how many pockets the skirt comes with, but you should also make sure those pockets are deep enough to be useful to you. Price: $100. your website and newsletter. When you are bushwhacking or hiking in a mosquito-infested area, your bare legs are vulnerable to being cut or eaten alive. I like Jockey NO Pantyline promise briefs, or microfiber full briefs. Impr. Built-in Shorts: Yes I usually wear between a medium and large pant, and the large skirt was much too tight in the waist. But Im not one for short sleeves. reviewed and A well made skirt hitting above your knees creates the perfect venting opportunity. Skirt length: Mid-calf length (25 to 29-inches). $25.00 last I looked. Its just a fact of trail life, and most wont mention it. And the dress itself is rated up to at least 30 UPF Equal parts backpacking food and ultralight gear. Built-in Shorts: No Flare: Most hiking skirts have a slight flare at the bottom to allow for unrestricted movement when walking. Pockets: Another essential element to consider when shopping for a skirt is storage. I am eager to try them. The backpacking dress is not your everyday cocktail dress; it was designed for hiking. I usually depend on spell check. I never thought I'd find a more comfortable piece of clothing than a Purple Full review, Hike, run, move through the mountainsthe Dynamo Skort is a well-made, durable, all-around mountain skirt. Id also like to take some time to talk about unda-pants. LOL I feel "fancy" just collecting chicken eggs wearing one. It gives you the chance to enjoy your trip whilst keeping bugs at bay. It definitely looks like itd be a good hiking dress. Get your paperback or Kindle copy and hit the trail in confidence & comfort. A word of advice for female hikers, I suggest still carrying 1 pair of underwear in your pack they do come in handy when you get your period (especially while wearing a dress/skirt) because that freaking tampon string just loves to get in the way. The dress has a slight flare for increased range of motion, a fitted waist, and wide straps at the top that'll prevent your backpack fromrubbing against your skin. CUSTOM HEM LENGTH IS ONLY FOR BLUE, GREEN, BROWN & GRAY SKIRTS, Printed skirts are limited in quantity- we have only 4 of each print in size s/m/l only. Many of our womens walking skirts come with our built-in anti-insect technology. Hiking in skirts might seem old fashioned, but we've come a long ways from the full-length skirts of the 1880s. I'm on a current hiatus from full-time work, enjoying what adventures life has to offer. Also the underwear comes in handy for those times where skinny dipping is just not convenient like in PA at Caledonia SP, where they have a pool, with a water slide (Open Memorial Day-Labor Day 11-7 according to the website). We have done a lot of co ed skinny dipping, It brought friend closer together. Well walk you through the basics of backcountry skirts - why you would wear them, what to look for when shopping for them and a few suggested models to get you started. Price: $148. I an not a serious back backpacker. I have never flashed anyone and use a tee shirt over my knees when sitting. I have worn with and without underwear. Wear one outside in the sunshine, rollerskating around the park, or hiking on a favorite trail, and that confidenceand comfortgoes through the roof. I'm ordering a short black version to help me through the heat this summer. Some of you might be thinking, but wont bugs get up in there? But you won't know which camp you're in until you try one! The Purple Rain Adventure skirt is handmade by Mandy Purple Rain Bland, an avid thru-hiker who couldn't find the right skirt when she was hiking the AT. There are other hiking dresses out there, but most have a small percentage of cotton, have weird straps, or are very heavy. These tips from a long time hiker give you the best gear. if you are clumsy and enjoy tripping/slipping/falling down, like me, you will flash someone. All the best to you."-Christina. If you want a skirt solely for running, you can pick a model with longer side slits designed specifically for that movement. No friction. These synthetic fabrics are lightweight, dry quickly and stretch to move when you are climbing. Smaller sizes have the same pockets as the larger sizes. Here are some of the most important Skorts or "Built Ins":Not every hiking skirt is an open skirt; some come with built-in shorts (called skorts). I am a nature photogrer who uses game cameras and calls predators for photocomoyiyions. Lighter weightI wear leggings/tights in winter. Theres something about wearing a dress that just pumps me full of unexpected confidence. Snaps between the legs when a little modesty is wanted. Ultralight Backpacking Gear List | 8 lb Base Weight (Full Comfort), 13 Best Ultralight Backpacks for Thru-Hiking in 2022, 13 Best Ultralight Backpacking Sleeping Bags for 2022, 6 Best Minimalist Sandals: Guide to Barefoot and Running Sandals, 16 Best Ultralight Rain Jackets and Shells for Hiking, 15 Best Down Jackets for Thru-Hiking for 2022, 42 Ultralight Backpacking Tips: How to Shave Pack Weight, Animal Tracks Identification Guide | Animal Footprint ID Charts, How to Read Hiking Trail Signs, Markers and Blazes, 76 Backpacking Food Ideas from the Appalachian Trail, 10 Best Meal Replacement Powders (Shakes and Drinks), List of Appalachian Trail Murders Since 1974. You'll find, as with all hiking gear, you'll be adding to your collection of the best hiking skirts as the seasons roll along. WARNING! Wear skirt size XL, which weighs 192g (6.7 oz) and has a 44.5 cm (17.5 in) side seam. Here's a review of a Purple Rain skirt on Garage Grown Gear, by a guy who uses it for all outdoor pursuits and can't imagine going back to wearing pants. But otherwise the Dynamo is a versatile, high-performing, technical skort, and will meet your outdoorsy needs on those days when you just want to pull on Full review, Most practical skirt for hiking. Not to mention the ease of making a pitstop. Pockets: Yes Full review, Excellent hiking skirt for men and women. I prefer pockets to keep my keys, Swiss Army knife, etc. We also like Prana's Railay Skort, which includes a subtle elastic waistband, Mountain Hardwear's Dynama Skort, which is like a stretchy, UPF 50-rated, DWR-treated mini skirt, and Backcountry's Stansbury, which is an insulated skirt ideal for extra warmth for winter hiking. When resting on my hips where I normally wear my pants, skirt is about 7.5 cm (3 in) above my kneejust right for striding. Weight: 6-7.5 ounces for a dress with pockets; 8-11 ounces for non-pocket dress. Built-in Bra: No It definitely works better for day hikes or 1 to 2 night trips with temps in the mid-60s with low humidity. Aim for a skirt in the 4 to 8 ounce range that has at least one pocket. A quick workaround for that is to slip on a pair of leggings underneath the skirt. It's available in plus sizes, too. It includes a pair of semi-compression shorts that help prevent chafing, and three pockets: one on each leg and a zippered pocket in the back.Made with UV 50+ fabric, the Happy Girl Skirt is available in 20 different vibrant colors. Perhaps not backpacking though, as the body suit design may make going to the bathroom a real ordeal. Rather than abandon the skirt altogether, she decided to design her own and test it on the PCT. Be proud of your strong hiker legs in your hiking skirt. Been wearing the skirt during morning Full review, A Zpacks Rain Kilt is a great way to shave weight and still protect your lower half from getting drenched. The skirt itself is loose fitting with four deep pockets and a wide waistband that won't interfere with your backpack's hip belt. And I always end up laughing at myself and pulling out the whipes. Hiking skirts are now breathable, waterproof and cut at or above the knee for easy walking. Our NosiLife technology is available in many of the womens hiking skirts and dresses we offer, which are constructed with dense fabric and interwoven anti-insect qualities. With a higher neck and longer length than most other options on the list, this modest dress is the top option for those looking for more coverage. VENTILATION:One of the main benefits of wearing a hiking skirt is ventilation. Our womens walking skirts offer superior comfort, perfect to wear on a brisk evening stroll. For reference I am 58, I had a size small, and the dress had been washed the night before. Also, modest hiking skirts might be your goal (no flashing). Happy Trails, a free monthly newsletter to keep you informed about hiking news & resources. Raven, what do you do for sun protection as those dresses still allow a lot of exposure? Full review, Super comfortable men's or women's walking skirt. Weekly reviews, exclusive deals, giveaways, and more: 2001-2022 Trailspace. In addition to the pockets integrated into the short liner, the Pace has a hidden media pocket with a cord exit so that your tunes dont have to stop when youre on the go. I got mine, the PFG Freezer just like the authors, on sale at Cabelas over the summer. Looking for womens walking skirts to keep you cool and comfortable on your next trip? Built-in Shorts: Yes Seriously? Hey Allie, With their Omni-Wick and Omni-Shade (though this is only rated to UPF 15) technologies, it definitely keeps you dry and protected, but I did find that on a 2 night trip it lost some of its shape and salt stains were evident on the navy fabric. There will always be different views on clothes, just like trekking poles vs no trekking poles or hammocks vs tents, but in the end, youre going to hike in whatever is more comfortable for you, with underwear or no underwear. Youll come across all different fashions along the AT. Both are good. Don't be lured in by the price tag without doing a bit of homework using these tips! (Please ignore the water bubble). Thankfully most of my mishaps go unnoticed by other hikers! View All Outerwear, Clothing, and Accessories . Caledonias water slide. I own two of the original skirts that I used exclusively on the Camino in 2018. There are several key features you should consider when purchasing a hiking skirt. Its not a deal breaker at all, but it certainlymade for some chilly mornings until my body heat dried the dress. Size XL. Price: $89. There are the hikers who started out commando, the converts, and the ones who carried their extra underpants on the outsideof their packs to dry all the way to Katahdin. Full review, A Purple Rain Adventure Dress is a nearly perfect hiking garment, especially for hot, muggy, and shaded conditions such as those found on the Appalachian Trail. Nothing more. Hiking in warm weather means working up a lot of sweat, which pools in the creases of your knees and groin. Sorry about the late reply, but I never had any smelly issues with my Freezer dress. Our favorite skort in the SkirtSports'scatalog is the Happy Girl skort. Hiking For Her LLC 2008 - 2022 All Rights Reserved. Price: $100. One of our favorite picks for cold weather hiking is the Montbell Superior Down Trail Skirt. I grabbed a bikini when I stopped home in CT to take the place of underwear. the day warms up, off go the leggings, leaving you free to enjoy the mild (hopefully sunny) weather when your legs get sweaty. In my opinion nothing beats a good hiking dress, and I dont understand why skorts exist. Winter:Skirts can also be worn in the winter over a pair of athletic leggings for example. And if you are one of those ladies who uses a female urination device (FUD), then you MUST try a skirt (you'll thank us later). You can also pair it with layers, as you'll see below. "I just want to thank you for the dedication and care that you put into When you no longer need the extra protection, simply take off the leggings and toss them in your pack. It is so much more comfortable in a skirt. It is made of a lightweight and quick-drying nylon suplex material and has six pockets. Our range of womens walking skirts and outdoor dresses will suitably equip you for any outdoor adventure. The "adventure dress" isn't new. I am not modest, but make no effort to expose any parts. Summer: You'll want a stretchy form-fitting nylon or synthetic fabric for a summer hiking skirt. Each category of hiking skirts will present the benefits of each choice, so you can select the skirt(s) for your trail style, body type and preferences. Youll run into hikers that will wear zip-off pants (but never zip them off), guys wearing hot pink booty shorts, track shorts, skorts, running tightsor god help you, guys wearing nothing but a pack towel around their waist yes, I have indeed seen the latter, no it wasnt on the summer solstice and thank god I had known the guy well enough by then to not really be too alarmed, it wasnt a pleasant sight, and we told him to never do it again. Made with 70% recycled polyester, this Stride is lightweight enough to stuff in the top of your pack to make for a quick changing station at camp, too. The Superior Down Trail Skirt is stuffed with an 800-fill down and constructed with stretch side fleece panels. For a complete kit bag, check out our selection of women's outdoor shirts to pair with your hiking skirt. I love skirts no matter the activity, and these skirts are just awesome! I know to bring a bunch of copies, and Im betting I should keep the original in the lockers at hostels when I can, but some might not have that option, and I figure there must be a better way than using a money belt under the dress and having to shove my arm up my dress (Ill be wearing opaque leggings so no, I wouldnt be flashing everyone if I had to do that) any time I needed to get my passport from it. Also with dresses: you dont have to worry about your bottoms riding low. Thanks! Chris also wrote How to Hike the Appalachian Trail. Raven: Did the non-flat seam directly on top of the shoulder ever bother you? Beyond how it makes you feel, the practical case for hiking dresses and running skirts in place of hiking pants is strong, too.