These Hiking Outfits Are Peak Off-Duty Style

Over the past year, I've come to realize just how essential it is to connect with nature, especially when living in the hustle and bustle of a big city. The need to escape and recharge in the great outdoors has made hiking surge in popularity lately, and obviously, I'm taking every opportunity that I can to go along with the movement. While practicality is key when it comes to my hiking trips, I make sure that my trail attire is just as fashionable as my day-to-day wardrobe.

My social media feeds have been flooded with people hiking in chic Sporty Spice looks, which has only fueled my desire to escape NYC more often and discover new heights. From a tennis dress layered up with a chic sports bra to a vest over a sleek athleisure bodysuit, I've discovered that hiking outfits don't have to be just for practicality.

Below, I've curated my favorite hiking outfits. Scroll down to see them all and, of course, shop your favorites.

1. Cropped Matching Set + Fanny Pack + Hiking Sneakers

Woman wearing hiking clothing.

(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

This is one of my favorite outfits I've ever worn on a hike because it was so effortless and hands-free. I felt super supported by this workout top, and the fanny pack meant I didn't have to hold my phone while climbing to the highest peaks.

2. Shacket + Oversize Sweatshirt + White Leggings

Woman wearing hiking clothing.

(Image credit: @lefevrediary)

The higher the elevation, the lower the temperature. The ever-popular shacket makes for a great hiking companion to throw on when things get chilly. Plus, you can never go wrong with a comfy oversize tee and white leggings.

3. Sweatsuit + Baseball Hat + Cashmere Sweater

Woman wearing hiking clothing.

(Image credit: @aimeesong)

If you're not afraid of getting a little dirty, a monochromatic white-and-cream hiking ensemble is super chic. I love how Aimee Song accessorized her look with a green baseball cap and gray New Balance sneakers.

4. Bright Set + Oversize Contrasting Sweatshirt

Woman wearing hiking clothing.

(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

In the fall, I tend to drift toward neutrals, but there's no better time to break out color combinations you might normally shy away from than on a hike. It's a great moment to make a statement, and it will be easier to stick together as a group when you're wearing this color scheme.

5. Sports Bra + Sweatpants + Baseball Hat

Woman wearing hiking clothing.

(Image credit: @emilisindlev)

There's something about a monochromatic look for a workout that always wins me over. I love the contrast of styling sweatpants with a sports bra, and the matching hat is the perfect finishing touch on this look.

6. Sage Sports Bra + Matching Leggings + Chunky Knit Sweater

Woman wearing a hiking outfit.

(Image credit: @georgia_3.0)

Sage is currently one of my favorite colors to wear; I treat it like a neutral. I love that this bra-and-legging set was paired with other light neutrals—her cream-colored sweater, bag, and socks—and chunky white Nikes to complete the look.

7. Bikini Top + Linen Pants + Platform Black Boots

Woman wearing a hiking outfit.

(Image credit: @fridacashflow)

Does your hike include a quick dip in the lake? Save space in your bag by wearing your swimwear, pairing it with breezy linen pants and chunky boots.

8. Onesie + Vest + Baseball Hat

Woman wearing hiking clothing.

(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

As we've discussed, hiking can be difficult when it comes to the weather. Being active warms you up, but the altitude can cool you off, so you'll never know what to expect. Having a vest can be really handy for this type of exercise, and I also love a onesie on a hike.

9. Sports Bra + Matching Shorts + Vest

Woman wearing hiking clothing.

(Image credit: @greceghanem)

This is a sleek look that shows you mean business when it comes to your exercise. Any outfit that's clearly made for performance does just that.

Associate Editor

Sierra Mayhew was always destined to work in fashion, but she didn't know it at first. Growing up with no choice but to wear a rotation of school uniforms and activewear, her love for fashion really blossomed when she moved away for college and was able to finally define her very own personal style. Shortly thereafter, she interned at Elle magazine and instantly knew that editorial was for her. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she worked for ShopBazaar, contributing regularly to Bazaar.com, and finally made her way to Who What Wear, where she is an associate editor. When she’s not working, you can catch her always trying to catch a flight, rollerblading through New York City traffic, or exploring the latest luxury vintage boutique.