If you’d told me a few years ago that I’d be scrolling Pinterest for cool-girl hiking outfits, I probably wouldn't have believed you. Yet somewhere between the rise of trail running, the “clean girl” aesthetic and our collective desire to romanticise even the most sweat-inducing hobbies, hiking has had a full-blown fashion glow-up. Think less fluorescent waterproofs, more off-duty model in the Alps - even if you’re actually just doing a loop of Hampstead Heath.
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If the ‘hiking girls’ of Instagam have taught us anything, the perfect hiking outfits sit at that sweet spot between performance and polish. We’re talking breathable layers that wouldn’t look out of place at Pilates, actually supportive walking shoes that rival your favourite trainers, and activewear brands like Gymshark, New Balance and Salomon becoming as style-significant as they are sweat-wicking.
Throw in cargo shorts, lightweight windbreakers, crossbody bags, UV-protective sunglasses and the kind of technical fabrics that sound suspiciously like skincare ingredients, and suddenly “what to wear hiking” feels less practical checklist, more curated outfit formula.
The key? Pieces that work hard but look effortless - moisture-wicking tops, high-waisted leggings, trail shoes, sports bras, hiking socks, caps - all styled with the same intention you’d bring to a brunch outfit. Because whether you’re chasing a summit or just a good oat flat white at the end of it, the modern hiking uniform is less about blending in with nature, and more about standing out (tastefully) on your Instagram grid.
Whether you're building a hiking wardrobe from scratch or giving your existing one an outdoorsy refresh, here's how to look fashionable and functional on your hiking trails this summer.
Cargo pants
If hiking had a main character trouser, it would be the cargo. Equal parts practical and accidentally very cool, they bring that laid-back, off-duty energy to even the muddiest trail. They're usually lightweight, so make an ideal bottom if you're trekking through leafy trails. I’d style them low-slung or mid-rise with a fitted tank or sports bra, add chunky walking shoes, and finish with an oversized windbreaker on rainy days.
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Trail shoes
Gone are the days when hiking shoes felt like a fashion compromise. So much so, the streets of Copenhagen Fashion Week were full of show-goers rocking Salomon's XT-6 GORE-TEX trainers beanth frothy tulle skirts and linen trousers. The new-gen trail trainers - think Salomon, New Balance and Keen - are the kind you’d happily wear to brunch and up a hill. Let them anchor your look: pair with ankle socks, bare legs or cropped cargos, and keep the rest of your outfit tonal so the shoes do the talking.
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The art of summer hiking is mastering the layer that looks good tied around your waist and thrown on mid-breeze. Think featherlight windbreakers, half-zips and packable jackets that add a pop of colour or texture without the bulk. I’d go for a slightly oversized fit, worn open over a matching active set or buttoned up with cargos for that effortless, thrown-together feel.
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Shorts
When the temperature rises, hiking shorts step in - and thankfully, they’ve had a glow-up too. Whether you go for barely-there running shorts or more sculpting, high-waisted styles, it’s all about leaning into that sporty silhouette. Pair with an oversized shirt or lightweight jacket to balance things out, add statement socks and your favourite trail shoes.
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Sunglasses
A good pair of sunglasses is doing a lot of heavy lifting here - shielding you from the sun and pulling the entire look together. Sporty, wraparound frames are having a moment (thank you, fashion’s obsession with performance-core), and they add instant edge to an otherwise dull hiking outfit. Whether you lean into tinted lenses or classic neutrals, they’re the finishing touch that says: yes, I hike, but I also have excellent taste.
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Backpacks and hiking vests
Functionality aside, your bag is where the personality comes in. Carrying backpack, crossbody bag or running vest is necessary for carrying your hiking essentials. Always opt for something big enough to hold water, snacks, SPF, plasters, a camera, and anything else you like to carry on your trails.
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To see more from Glamour UK's Freelance Commerce Writer, Georgia Brown, you can find her on Instagram @geeleighbee.
