Ditch the Pants: Hiking in a Dress – 2023 Buying Guide + Tips

Discover the freedom and fun of hitting the trails in style with my ultimate guide to hiking in a dress – plus, find the perfect hiking dress for you with my buying guide for ladies who love to hike!

Hiking in a Dress – Seriously?

Yes, you heard me right, a dress! And before you ask, no, this isn’t just for the ladies. I mean, have you seen how men rock kilts? 

I went on a whiskey hike recently where the guide wore a kilt from Scotland – it worked on him and got me thinking.

Would a little more air up in there be nice on hikes?

So I went to my favorite store (REI-duh!) and got a green hiking dress. I felt really cool to ditch my normal sport pants and try something more stylish.

To my surprise, the function followed form!

Read until the end where I share how you can level up your feminine superpower by doing flying dress photoshoots on the top of the Austrian Alps!

⭐️ Jump directly to Buying Guide.

Let’s jump in to the review, pros and cons and my personal experience.

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Quick Verdict: Top Pick Hiking Dress

If you’re in search of a versatile dress that can keep up with all your outdoor adventures, check out the Active Pursuits Training Dress.

You can find it at REI or on their website. It felt really smooth against my skin and flexible. The only problem is wrinkles.

Related Lady Hiker Reading:

• Most Instagrammable Hike in Austria with Flying Dresses
• Gifts for Outdoorsy Women Gift Guide
• Italian Dolomites Flying Dress Photoshoot on the Alta Via 1
• Hiking Statistics to Reduce Trail Anxiety

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What Can a Hiking in a Dress Offer?

Dresses for hiking may seem like an unusual choice, but hear me out. Why Hike in a Dress?

Comfort

Dresses are often made of lightweight and breathable materials that allow your skin to breathe and keep you cool.

Plus, you don’t have to worry about the constriction of pants or shorts, which can be especially helpful during long hikes.

Style

Hiking in a dress can be a fashionable statement. With the variety of styles, colors, and patterns available, you can show off your personal style while enjoying the great outdoors.

Multifunctional Travel Clothes

Hiking dresses are not only good for the trail, but they are amazing for travel. They are lightweight, multifunctional and pack up very small.

Quick Table Top 5 Hiking Dresses

Click on Dress to See Prices & Purchase	⭐️ Why is it good? 💥
Active Pursuits Training Dress	Overall Best Performance & Awesome Pockets
Hemp Hiking Dress	Most Sustainable Fabric
Patagonia Magnolia Spring	Best Odor Control
North Face Arque Hike Dress	Best with Shorts
Fjallraven Ovik Lite Dress	Best with Sleeves

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Hiking Dress Reviews

Best Hiking Outfits and Dresses

1. Top Pick: Best Hiking Dress Overall

Active Pursuits Training Dress

Dress Features	Yes/No
Stretch Movement	Yes
UPF Rating	Yes (50)
Moisture Wicking	Yes
Built-in Shorts	Yes
Built-in Bra	Yes
Pockets	Yes – 2 drop in and 1 zipper

Click Here to Check Price

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2. Most Sustainable : Hemp Hiking Dress

Hemp Hiking Dress

Dress Features	Yes/No
Stretch Movement	Yes
UPF Rating	Yes
Moisture Wicking	No
Built-in Shorts	No
Built-in Bra	No
Pockets	Yes – 1

Check Current Prices

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3. Best Odor Control – Patagonia Magnolia Spring

Patagonia Magnolia Spring

Dress Features	Yes/No
Stretch Movement	Yes
UPF Rating	Yes
Moisture Wicking	Yes
Built-in Shorts	No
Built-in Bra	Yes
Pockets	No

Check Current Prices

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4. Best with Sleeves : Fjallraven Ovik Lite Dress

Fjallraven Ovik Lite Dress

Features	Yes/No
Stretch Movement	Yes
UPF Rating	No
Moisture Wicking	Yes
Built-in Shorts	No
Built-in Bra	No
Pockets	Yes – 2 Hand Pockets

Check Current Prices

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5. Best with Shorts : North Face Arque Hike Dress

North Face Arque Hike Dress

Features	Yes/No
Stretch Movement	Yes
UPF Rating	Yes
Moisture Wicking	Yes
Built-in Shorts	Yes
Built-in Bra	Yes
Pockets	Yes – 2 Internal drop in on shorts

Check Current Prices

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6. Best For Travel : Patagonia Roamer Dress

Patagonia Roamer Dress

Features	Yes/No
Stretch Movement	Yes
UPF Rating	Yes
Moisture Wicking	no
Built-in Shorts	mp
Built-in Bra	Yes
Pockets	Yes – 2 Internal drop in

Check Current Prices

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7. Best Maxi : Toad&Co Sunkissed Maxi

Toad&Co Sunkissed Maxi

Features	Yes/No
Stretch Movement	Yes
UPF Rating	Yes (50)
Moisture Wicking	Yes
Built-in Shorts	No
Built-in Bra	No
Pockets	Yes – 2 Internal drop in, and 1 zipper

Check Current Prices

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Different Styles of Hiking Dresses

When it comes to an outfit for hiking, there are several different styles to choose from depending on your preferences and needs. Here are a few options:

Hiking Dress with Pockets

A hiking dress with pockets is a game-changer for carrying essential items like your phone, sunscreen, and trail map while keeping your hands free. 

With pockets strategically placed on the front, sides, or even the back, you’ll have easy access to everything you need on the trail without having to carry a bulky backpack. Some dresses even have hidden pockets inside, which can be great for storing cash or credit cards.

Hiking Dress with Shorts

For added comfort and coverage, a hiking dress with built-in shorts is a great choice.

This option allows for ease of movement on the trail while keeping you cool and protected.

This will be absolutely necessary if you plan a hike where there is some scrambling, ladders or climbing. Places like the Calmont Klettersteig or Mittelrhein Klettersteig in Germany will require a harness and shorts are key.

Look for dresses with shorts made of stretchy and breathable fabric, like spandex or nylon, that will move with you and wick away moisture. 

You can also find dresses with removable shorts, so you can wear the dress alone or with the shorts depending on the conditions.

Hiking Dress with Sleeves

If you’re hiking in cooler temperatures or want added sun protection, consider a hiking dress with sleeves. Look for one with moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry and comfortable. Some dresses even have mesh panels for added breathability. 

The sleeves can be short, three-quarter, or full-length, depending on your preference. 

Sleeves can also provide added coverage and protection from bugs or rough terrain.

Hiking in a Skirt

For a more versatile option, a hiking skirt can provide similar benefits to a hiking dress while also allowing for greater freedom of movement and it’s easier to pee in Nature.

Look for one with shorts built-in for added coverage and convenience. Hiking skirts come in a variety of lengths, from mini to maxi, and are often made of lightweight and breathable materials. 

Some hiking skirts even have adjustable hemlines, so you can customize the length depending on the terrain. The skirt is also a great option for those who may need to remove the bottom layer for a quick dip in a stream or lake.

How to Pick the Right Hiking Dress For You

Alright, let’s dive into the most important part – picking the RIGHT outdoor dress for hiking! Here are some tips to help you out and what to remember when summer hiking in a dress:

BODY TYPE: Consider your body type and find a dress that flatters your figure. While hiking is very safe, a hiking dress that’s too tight can cause chafing, while one that’s too loose can get caught on bushes and branches. Finding the perfect fit is key! You can also take a look at the best hiking shorts for women here.

HIKING NEEDS: Think about the terrain and climate you’ll be hiking in. If you’re hitting rocky trails, a dress with SHORTS can help prevent scrapes and bruises. If you’re hiking in hot weather, a dress with SLEEVES can provide sun protection and prevent sunburn. If you need a backpacking dress, a dress that is multifunctional will help you reduce your pack weight.

FABRIC: Choose a dress made from BREATHABLE and quick-drying material to keep you cool and dry. Avoid heavy fabrics that will weigh you down and make you feel uncomfortable.

ACCESSORIES: Opt for a hiking dress with POCKETS to carry essentials like sunscreen, snacks, and a map. If you’re concerned about ticks and other bugs, wear leggings under your dress to mitigate the risk.

Remember, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to the best dress for hiking. Experiment with different styles, and find the one that works best for you! As for me, I’m a sucker for a dress with POCKETS – I love having easy access to my phone and snacks on the trail.

Buying Guide: Considerations for Picking a Hiking Dress

Hiking Dress Ideas

When going hiking what should I wear? Whatever you want gurllll!  But a dress is also an option beyond less than flattering hiking pants. 

Can you hike in a dress?  Yes you can!

While comfort is certainly important, hiking in a dress can also be a stylish and fun way to enjoy the outdoors. Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting a dress for hiking:

Choose the right length

You’ll want to select a dress that’s the right length for hiking. Dresses that are too short can be impractical, while those that are too long can become a tripping hazard.

Look for pockets

Pockets can be a key feature when looking for attire for hiking, allowing you to easily store and access essentials like your phone, keys, or snacks.

Protip: If you need to relieve yourself in Nature, consider a dress without built-in shorts as a unitard.

Consider the fabric

Opt for a fabric that’s lightweight, breathable, and easy to care for. You’ll want to select a dress that can withstand the rigors of the trail and won’t require special care or cleaning.

Natural fabrics like merino wool and hemp with thermal and humidity regulating properties can be very attractive.  Often they smell less funky than performance synthetic fabrics.

Comparison Chart of Hiking Dresses

Here’s a quick comparison of all the dresses I’ve reviewed in this article.

Image	Product	Features	Price
	Top Pick : Active Pursuits Training Dress	Perfect for all your outdoor activities, including hiking, running, and casual outings. Durable, light and soft "bluesign" material made with recycled materials. One of the best features of this dress is its pockets.	Check Price
	Hemp Hiking Dress	Eco-conscious dress designed for summer travel. It's perfect for those who want comfort and style while exploring nature. Tie waist Front zippered pockets	Check Price
	Most Versatile - Patagonia Roamer	The Patagonia Roamer Dress is a versatile and packable dress that is perfect for any adventure. Made from 95% organic cotton and 5% spandex, it is not only comfortable but also sustainable.  Elasticized waistband 2 Drop in Pockets, 1 inner	Check Price
	Best with Sleeves - Fjallraven Ovik	This dress is designed to keep you cool and comfortable in warm weather, making it perfect for both travelling and everyday use. Sleeves half way down arm Quick Dry	Check Price
	Best Shorts - North Face Arque Hike Dress	Looks stylish and feels comfortable, it also comes with built-in shorts!  Flash dry tech, ultra quick dry Multiple pockets	Check Price
	Best Odor Control - Patagonia Magnolia Spring	Great option for those looking for a versatile and packable dress that is also sustainable and ethical.  Most Flattering A-line Tie Waist	Check Price
	Best Maxi - Toad&Co Sunkissed Maxi	This dress is not only stylish but also functional. It has bra-friendly straps with a peek-a-boo cutout at the upper back, which shows a hint of skin. On-seam hand pockets hide a secure zipper stash pocket Bra-friendly straps	Check Price

Why I Hike in a Dress

Comfort

Hiking what to wear beyond convertible pants? Wearing a dress while hiking can offer a number of advantages in terms of comfort. Here are some key benefits:

Breathability

Many of the best hiking dresses are designed with moisture-wicking fabrics that help to keep you cool and dry, even during intense physical activity. This can be especially important if you’re hiking in hot or humid conditions.

Mobility

Dresses can provide a greater range of motion than traditional hiking pants or shorts, allowing you to move more freely and comfortably on the trail. This can be particularly helpful when navigating steep or rocky terrain.

Cons to Hiking in a Dress

Okay, let’s be real – hiking in a dress is not all sunshine and rainbows. Here are some potential pitfalls to consider:

Chafing

I’m not going to sugarcoat it, CHAFING can be a real pain in the butt (literally). Nobody wants to deal with blisters and raw skin while trying to enjoy the great outdoors. Trust me, you’ll want to lather up with anti-chafing balm or petroleum jelly before hitting the trail if you have thunder thighs like me.

But if you are you an “antelope” with wide hips and slender thighs you’ll probably love hiking in a dress and by hiking a dress, you can avoid this issue entirely by avoiding shorts/pants seams.  

A woman hiking in a dress must know herself and her thigh type. 

This is incredibly personal.

➡️  Buy the best Anti-Chafe cream developed in Europe for cyclists, who know all about chafing.

Exposure

Wearing a dress means your legs are more EXPOSED to the elements, including sunburn, scratches, and even those pesky TICKS and other bugs. If you don’t want to spend the rest of your hike itching and scratching, I recommend wearing a hiked up dress with some leggings or gaiters under your dress.

Limited Mobility

It’s important to choose a dress with plenty of stretch and room to move, or you might end up feeling like a walking sausage. Nobody wants to be restricted and uncomfortable while trying to navigate rough terrain.

Believe me, I’ve been there. When I ask myself, can i go hiking in a dress, there’s nothing worse than a dress that catches on brambles because it’s too long or the fabric too weak to withstand my level of exploration.

Unpredictable Weather

Mother Nature can be a fickle mistress, and a dress may not always provide enough protection from the elements. You might end up regretting your fashion choice if you get caught in the rain, wind, or unexpected cold temperatures.

Always check the weather forecast and bring layers, or risk shivering your way down the mountain.

Despite these potential drawbacks, I’m still a big fan of hiking in a dress. It’s all about finding the right dress for the occasion and taking necessary precautions to avoid any mishaps especially if you are going on a multiday hike. The best dress for trekking depends on where you’ll be going.

Trust me, with a little bit of planning and some good old-fashioned trial and error, you can conquer any hiking trail in style.

Immerse into your senses with:
📚 Top hiking books & movies
🎧 Inspiring hiking podcasts
Video ➡️ Best waterfalls in Europe
and the best Nature quotes, Mountain Quotes & Dolomites Quotes to inspire wonder.

Hiking Safety from a Physical Therapist

As a physical therapist, I’ve seen countless hikers come through my doors with various injuries and strains. To ensure you have a successful and pain-free hiking experience, consider these top tips:

• PREPARE YOUR BODY: Focus on strengthening your core and lower body muscles in the weeks leading up to your hike. Incorporate exercises like lunges, squats, and planks into your routine.
  
• START SLOW: Don’t push yourself too hard at the beginning of your hike. Learn how long it takes to hike certain distances, especially if there are elevation changes. Gradually build up your pace and distance over time to prevent injury like plantar fasciitis.
  
• USE PROPER FORM: Make sure your posture is upright and you’re using proper form when walking uphill or downhill. Keep your shoulders back and down, and engage your core muscles.
  
• TAKE BREAKS: Take frequent breaks to rest and stretch your muscles. This will help prevent fatigue and reduce your risk of injury.
  
• STAY HYDRATED: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your hike. Dehydration can lead to muscle cramps and other physical issues.
  
• BRING THE RIGHT GEAR TO AVOID CHAFE AND BLISTERS: From a blister kit to the best hiking socks, there’s no shortage of great gear on the market.
  
• As a physio, I highly recommend learning how to use TREKKING POLES for hiking. They can greatly reduce the impact on your joints and improve your balance.
  
  To ensure you get the most out of your poles, make sure to buy the BEST TREKKING POLES for your height and the terrain you’ll be hiking on.
  
  When using your poles, hold them at a 90-degree angle and plant them ahead of you at a slight angle, using your arms to help propel you forward. Don’t be afraid to adjust the length of your poles based on the incline and decline of the trail.

Remember, hiking can be a physically demanding activity, so it’s important to take care of your body before, during, and after your trip. 

Nature Calls

Let’s face it, folks: nature calls and girls hiking in a dress may have more or less freedom. And when you’re out in the great outdoors, you might have to take care of business with no bathroom in sight.

But fear not! With the right gear and some know-how, you’ll be able to answer that call without a hitch.  There’s not that many hiking rules, but generally there’s some etiquette you’ll want to consider.

PANTS (or lack thereof): When it comes to peeing in the woods, hiking in a dress has its pros and cons. On the one hand, a dress allows for easy access and eliminates the need to pull down pants or shorts. On the other hand, a dress without built-in shorts can leave you exposed and vulnerable. It’s a delicate balance, folks.

POSITION: When it comes to peeing in the woods, the right position is key. Some folks prefer to squat, while others find a tree or rock to lean against. Whatever your preference, make sure you have good balance and aim.

TOOLS: If you’re feeling fancy, you can invest in a female urination device (FUD) to make peeing in the woods a breeze. But if you’re a minimalist like me, all you need is some toilet paper and maybe a small trowel to bury your business. And remember, always practice Leave No Trace principles!

And there you have it, folks: everything you need to know about peeing in the woods while hiking in a dress. Just remember, when nature calls, you answer.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Click here ➡️ to Plant trees with travel purchases to remove carbon and create animal habitats to balance your carbon from the comfort of your home.

How to Hike in a Wedding Dress

The ULTIMATE hiking dress….

Attention all adventurous lovebirds! If you’re planning on eloping on a mountain top or saying your vows in a forest clearing, you might be wondering how to hike in a wedding dress without tripping over your train or flashing your guests. 

Well, fear not! As a seasoned mountain elopement planner and hiker, I’m here to share some tips on how to rock your special day in the great outdoors, even in a shorter wedding dress that won’t weigh you down like a traditional ball gown.”

Sure, here are some tips for how to hike in a wedding dress:

1. CHOOSE A SHORTER DRESS: When it comes to elopement attire, shorter is often better. A tea-length or knee-length dress can be much easier to move around in than a full-length gown. Plus, it’s less likely to get caught on branches, rocks, or other obstacles you may encounter on your hike.

2. OPT FOR COMFORTABLE SHOES: Hiking in heels is a recipe for disaster, so be sure to choose comfortable shoes that will keep you stable on uneven terrain. Sneakers, hiking boots, or even sandals with good grip can be great options, depending on the season and location of your elopement.
   
3. CONSIDER LAYERS: Even if you’re getting married in the middle of summer, temperatures can drop quickly in the mountains or forest. Consider adding a jacket or wrap to your ensemble, or even wearing leggings or tights under your dress to keep warm.
   
4. BRING A BACKPACK: Carrying a backpack can be a lifesaver when hiking in a wedding dress. You can stash your shoes, accessories, and any other essentials you might need on your hike, and even carry a change of clothes if you want to switch into something more formal for your ceremony.
   
5. PRACTICE YOUR HIKE: If you’re planning on hiking to your ceremony location, it’s a good idea to do a practice run in your dress and shoes beforehand. This will give you a chance to get comfortable with your attire, work out any kinks, and make sure you know what to expect on the day of your elopement.

With these tips in mind, you can hike in a wedding dress with confidence, comfort, and style. Just remember to have fun and enjoy the adventure!”

Flying Dress Photoshoots

Is this an Instagram-worthy photo or what? 👎🏻

Experiences are my top choice of all the outdoorsy gifts we’ve reviewed below!

It’s always memories that count.

Best gifts for outdoorsy women = Nature Flying Dress Photography Experience

Goddess Lens Photography is a backpacking, hiking, Nature Loving woman’s dream team for doing legacy-worthy photos of her in wondrous places like the Alps, Mediterranean, Morocco and more in Europe.

Contact by email at [email protected] for European Nature based feminine art photography, gifts for outdoorsy women aren’t always what you expect.

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Final Verdict: To hike or not to hike in a dress?

Hiking in a dress can be a comfortable and stylish way to connect with nature on your next adventure. With the right dress, you can enjoy the benefits of breathability, style, and functionality on the trail.

To recap, we discussed the importance of finding the right dress for your body type and hiking needs, as well as the potential cons to consider when hiking in a dress. But don’t let those drawbacks deter you – with a little preparation and the right mindset, hiking in a dress can be an amazing experience.

If you’re still not sure where to start, check out my personal favorite, the REI Co-op Active Pursuits Training Dress. The pockets make the difference for me!!!

It’s the perfect combination of style, comfort, and functionality for hiking.  Sometimes you can find a hiking dress for sale on their website.

And if you’re looking for more hiking tips and inspiration, be sure to check out our website for sustainable adventure travel guides, gear reviews, and more. We’ve got everything you need to plan your next comfortable and eco-friendly adventure.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your hiking dress and hit the trail!

FAQ: Hiking in a Dress

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Final Verdict

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Why Trust?

At Crave the Planet, I’m all about honest and relatable reviews of outdoor products. As a physical therapist, hut to hut hiker, downhill skier and mom, I’m constantly trying new gear to make my outdoor experiences more comfy and fun but with science in mind.

I’ll be real with you, I don’t do every outdoor activity. But, who does? I’m just a regular person who loves exploring the planet. Perfectionism is my enemy and I hope to help you ditch that vibe too.

My review process involves testing each product in real-life outdoor situations, but if it’s a really horrible day I’ll probably find a hotel in the valley. I’ll let you know what worked for me and what didn’t, so you can make informed decisions about your gear choices.

I don’t do sponsored reviews or take payment for my reviews. All comments are based on my personal experience. Sometimes I’ll test something and then send it back for a refund. Usually there’s a hefty fee. Bummer. So, if you’re looking for a relatable and honest take on outdoor gear, you’re in the right place.

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