If you are considering an adventure somewhere in the great outdoors, you might think that styling your outfit is the last thing you need to be concerned with. After all, no one is going to be bringing their silk gowns or white pumps to wear on a week of camping and climbing.
However, choosing the right outfit for your time outdoors is important if you not only want to look and feel confident but be prepared for any eventuality.
A good outdoor outfit will be able to withstand any weather condition and make certain you don’t end up looking tattered, torn and dirty when you come back home. Here are some tips on how to style yourself for a journey outdoors.
Choosing Practical Yet Stylish Clothing
Selecting the right outfit for an outdoor adventure means assessing the practical quality of the clothing against how much it matches your own unique style. Take a look online at some of the Canada Goose selection of outdoor clothing available and what it can offer you.
For example, if you are doing any sort of hiking or camping in the wilderness, chances are you will get muddy. Try clothing that is dark enough not to show any soil and can easily be machine-washed when you get home. Likewise, give thought to clothing that is waterproof just in case you get stuck in the rain.
Finding the right balance between stylish and practical is the best way to fully prepare yourself for an adventure outdoors.
Plan for Your Adventure
Rather than just purchasing a standard outdoor outfit, you should plan your outfit around what you plan to do on your adventure. For example, if you plan on hiking, you should choose an outfit that is lightweight and breathable to support your movement, while for camping, you should layer your clothes in anticipation of any temperature changes.
Activities like cycling and rock climbing require clothing that is flexible and resistant to abrasions, while for fishing or snowboarding, you will want clothing that is quick-drying and water-resistant. If possible, opt for clothing that offers versatility across a number of activities.
Layer Your Outfit
To create the perfect outfit for an outdoor adventure, you need to consider what to wear for each layer. Layers will make sure you are well insulated in cold weather while being able to make adjustments according to weather conditions.
Your outfit should consist of three basic layers: your base layer, your middle layer, and your outer layer, plus footwear and other accessories. Let us look at each layer in detail to understand better how it affects the overall outfit.
The Base Layer
The base layer of your outdoor outfit is also known as the underwear layer and consists of clothing such as leggings, shorts and shirts. It is the layer that is closest to your skin, so it is important for overall comfort.
To be effective, your base layer clothing needs to be able to effectively allow moisture to dissipate and not accumulate in the clothing. It also needs to be able to regulate your body temperature so you don’t get too hot and sweaty or too cold when the temperature falls.
Merino wool and polypropylene are excellent materials for base layer clothing, while cotton and polyester work well if you plan on adventuring in warm weather.
The Middle Layer
The next piece of your outfit to think through is your middle layer. This is the insulation layer and consists of clothing designed to keep you warm and comfortable outdoors. It also needs to be breathable and not likely to cause you to overheat while also being lightweight enough to wear for long periods outdoors.
You should also choose clothing made from fabrics that can dry quickly if necessary. Jackets made from polyester fleece or wool are excellent choices as they are both breathable and quick drying.
Puffer jackets can provide warmth when you are not physically active but have poor breathability if you work up a sweat and should be avoided in such cases.
The Outer Layer
The final layer for your outfit is the outer layer or shell layer. This layer of clothing is designed to protect you from the elements: rain, snow, wind and mud. As such, this clothing needs to be completely weather-resistant and waterproof and made from material that is tough but lightweight and breathable.
Choose rain jackets or windbreakers made from durable and waterproof materials to make sure you are fully protected on your journey.
Footwear
Once you have all your layers ready, the next item of clothing to organise is footwear. Ultimately, whatever shoes you choose to wear should offer comfort, support and protection no matter where you go and how much activity is involved.
Consider boots or shoes that are made from waterproof leather in case you need to traverse wet areas. Thermal socks are an excellent choice as they will keep your feet dry and comfortable during your adventure.
Accessories
With your outfit almost complete, you can now think about any small additions to style it up. Perhaps a small but practical backpack for storing your belongings such as your extra layers and other must-have items when not needed.
Consider a cap or beanie for head protection or a pair of gloves for keeping your hands warm at night. Whatever you choose, make sure it is practical and comfortable enough for long periods outdoors.
Style Your Outfit
Now that you have some idea of how your outfit should function, you can choose how to style it so that it reflects your own personal taste. Consider aspects such as colour, patterns and fabrics: remember that darker colours hide mud and dirt better, and earthy colours such as greens and browns can blend in better with the environment, which is great if you want to observe wildlife.
Make sure the clothing is well-fitted, and perhaps go with clothing that is adjustable or stretchable for extra flexibility. Avoid materials that can cause irritation or chafing during heavy movement. Keep an eye out for new clothing lines that enhance both the functionality and appearance of your outdoor gear.
Finally, always follow the instructions from the clothing manufacturer in terms of cleaning and maintaining your outfit before and after use so that it lasts as long as you need it.
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