Clothing for Hiking/Camping????

[chasineyes]

Looking for tips on dressing for hiking/camping. The family are going to yellowstone and was wondering what the MOST important piece of clothing would be. I'm looking into these newer "wicking" shirts for base layer with a good rainjacket. However these shirts aren't cheap but I"m sick of always wearing the basic cotton and getting cold and wet. Is the base layer REALLY that crucial. Will be doing quite a bit of hiking but nothing "intense".

Thanks!!!!

[h8go4s]

The rei HSOforum has an expert advice tab. Go to the camping/hiking section and look for an article titled layering.

Ron.

[Powerstroke]

I would say that the base layer is SUPER important. How you do it can be accomplished rather inexpensively.

In the same category as the base layer is my number one item which is socks/footwear. Unless you're lounging in camp, you will want a wicking sock with a hiking sock and a good pair of boots or trail shoes. I wear my hiking boots all day with this combination and have no problems with sweaty or hot feet.

You can manage many different clothing layers, but you can't really go much lighter on your feet.

[itchmesir]

Base layer.. base layer.. base layer.. it's all about the base layer.. something that wicks moisture well... Under Armor maybe be expensive.. but the amount of use you will get out of one set of layers, coupled with the surprising warmth they can add on a cold day(really unnoticeable on the hotter days as well)... and their ability to wick moisture.. the price in the end is very much justified

[Comit 2]

You can get cheaper brands like Xtek. Just buy your shirt extra big so it stays tucked in.

[itchmesir]

the FF version of UA is really good too

[BorderView]

As has been said, base layer is most important followed by breathable rain gear. I cool weather cotton kills. Treat your feet the same as your torso. Base Layer, insulation and breathable waterproof outer.

[OnAFly]

Packable rain gear. Base layers are good to have, but do nothing when you're soaking wet. It will inevitably rain while camping, so be prepared for it.

Wool socks too. They keep warm while wet. Can you tell I don't like being wet?

[DooWap]

Baselayers are very important in my opinion. Though they are expensive, I think that the smartwool baselayers are the best ones out there. They are warm when it's cold, yet you don't get too warm in them if it's warmer out. Also wool still insulates when it's wet, whether it's from taking a dunk in a lake accidentally or just sweating.

Good packable Goretex rain gear is a must too. I don't skimp on rain gear.

[Comit 2]

A fleece jacket is nice for a mid-layer it drys fast but is bulky for a back pack. A down sweater/jacket it great for a mid-layer it packs small and is light but don't get it wet.

Just remember no cotton! Polyester (fleece) and wool or a mix of the two. Cotton soaks up to much water and stays wet to long. Polyester pants, shirt, base layer and socks. A warm mid-layer and a good rain/wind proof outer shell. A good hat to keep the sun and rain off you and a good pair of sunglasses. Shoes.

for an extra get a walking stick if your walking up and down hills they come in handy. Just think how much easier it is to walk up stairs using a hand rail.