Who says practical can’t be stylish? Certainly not us hiking lovers who know the magic of a good hiking dress with pockets!
Personally, I have a soft spot for Fjallraven dresses. It feels like no other brand even comes close to matching their quality. But those beauties come with a hefty price tag, usually hovering above $150.
So, being the budget-friendly hiker that I am, I also ventured out to find some more affordable options starting at $35. I bought them, tested them out on the trails and I was not disappointed.
Not only do these dresses look good, but they also work hard, proving themselves to be the perfect hiking companions. Stay tuned as I share my top picks with you!
What Are the Best Hiking Dresses?
Best Overall: Fjallraven High Coast Lite Dress | Check Price
Best Comfort: Fjallraven S/F Saddle to Table Dress | Check Price
Best Versatility: Sweaty Betty Power Workout Dress | Check Price
Best on Budget: IUGA Dress | Check Price
Best Flattering Look: QINSEN Dress | Check Price
Fjallraven High Coast Lite Dress
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
The Fjallraven High Coast Lite Dress is my absolute favorite. I love Fjallraven’s commitment to sustainability with their use of recycled materials, and this dress is no exception.
It’s made from 90% recycled polyamide and 10% elastane. This blend creates a fabric that is cool to the touch, dries quickly, and offers excellent movement freedom. You might even forget you’re wearing it – weighing only 5.4 ounces, it’s incredibly light.
With an intelligent drawcord adjustment at the waist, the dress gives you the liberty to go loose or define your waist, however you prefer.
The High Coast Dress kills it in the ventilation factor too. A smart opening in the back supplies all the cool air you need when the hike turns intense. The short cap sleeves allow for even more air circulation.
But what good is a hiking dress without pockets? This dress has two, perfect for your small essentials.
The dress comes in four amazing colors: rowan red, ultramarine, navy, and green. However, I noticed the green can show sweat quite fast (other hikers mentioned it as well) so keep that in mind before buying this dress.
Verdict
The Fjallraven High Coast Lite Dress is definitely my number one dress for hiking. It offers comfort, durability, and style – all the things you want in a hiking dress.
It’s expensive, but once you experience the comfort and freedom this dress brings, you’ll forget about this $170 pretty quickly.
Fjallraven S/F Saddle to Table Dress
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
This is yet another Fjallraven dress I love wearing on summer hikes (I might be slightly obsessed with this brand). Made from a combination of recycled polyamide and elastane, the S/F Saddle to Table Dress is functional and environmentally friendly.
This dress really shines when it comes to practical design. It’s equipped with a chest pocket and hand pockets, perfect for stashing small items.
The dress’s snap button closure secures the dress in place, so you never have to worry about your outfit while on the move.
What really stands out is the side cinch for adjusting the length – a feature you don’t come across very often. Whether you’re hiking uphill or downhill, in heat or cold, you can adjust the dress length accordingly.
At 8.7 ounces, it’s lightweight enough not to burden you during your hike. It offers a relaxed fit, giving you the freedom to move around freely.
It is available in two colors: pomegranate red and black. I must admit, I do wish they had more color options. But these two are classics that would suit almost anyone.
Verdict
The S/F Saddle to Table Dress comes right after the Fjallraven High Coast Lite. It’d be equally amazing but I noticed that it’s not stain-resistant so you might need to be a bit careful while munching on those trail snacks!
Overall, it’s a great dress for day hikes or casual outdoor activities in warm weather. The pocket space and adjustable length make it a practical choice, while the lightweight material and relaxed fit add to its comfort. So much to love about this dress!
Sweaty Betty Power Workout Dress
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
Priced at $118, the Power Workout Dress is a more affordable alternative to the Fjallraven dresses, although it’s still not the cheapest option.
However, given the comfort, the utility, and the overall appeal, I’d say it’s definitely worth the investment.
This is the very first dress I purchased from Sweaty Betty and I really like it so far! It’s 62% polyamide and 38% elastane, making it stretchy and comfortable, perfect for tough climbs and tricky terrains.
With its crew-neck design and built-in bra, you’ve got a dress that gives you the support you need on your hikes.
Even better, this dress ticks all the boxes when it comes to practicality. It’s got built-in shorts with a 5-inch inseam, ensuring you’re covered and comfortable.
The Power Workout Dress also features two pockets, perfect for storing small things when you’re on the move (not really suitable for bulky phones though).
As hikers, we need our dresses to be much more solid, durable, and ready to withstand the elements than regular clothing. This is where the Power Workout Dress falls a bit short in my opinion – the material can be a bit thin, and this could potentially affect its longevity.
The dress can also be a bit tricky to put on and take off, particularly when a bathroom break is in order.
Verdict
The Sweaty Betty dress certainly does not fall far behind the Fjallraven dresses. The quality of material and the cut leads to an incredibly flattering fit, something many ladies have echoed in their 4.1 out of 5-star rating based on 100+ reviews on REI.
IUGA Dress
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
The IUGA dress is made up of 83% nylon and 17% spandex. These materials are well-known for extreme durability, but also for providing that stretchiness that allows you to move without being restricted – a crucial feature when you’re tackling steep hill climbs.
It even comes with a promising 4-way stretch! When you’re on the move, this dress will move with you.
The best part? The IUGA dress is the most affordable option in our ranking, sitting pretty at just $35. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors. I already have plans to expand my collection!
The dress sports a lovely scoop neck design, giving it a fashionable edge. But more than that, it’s designed with adjustable straps that cater to a wide variety of body shapes.
It also comes with a built-in bra with removable pads. This eliminates the need for an additional bra, saving space in your backpack. In fact, I’ve never had to wear a separate bra with this dress!
It also features two side pockets. Even though they’re located on the shorts underneath, they are spacious enough to hold any phone.
One of the standout features of this dress is the flattering tapering at the waistline. It hugs in all the right places and gives you a beautiful silhouette. It’s not every day you find a dress that’s functional and flattering!
There have been concerns about the dress being short, but in my experience, the length has never been an issue. It’s always been just right, providing the right coverage with the shorts underneath.
Verdict
With its flattering design and functional features like pockets and adjustable straps, you’ll feel good and look good on the trails wearing this dress. At just $35, it’s an affordable option that won’t break the bank.
QINSEN Dress
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
It seems like a tennis dress, priced at only about $40 but it’s a trailblazing wonder!
The QINSEN dress features a special blend of 77% nylon and 23% elastane. This dress is both stretchy and strong.
I absolutely love the 4-way stretch! This allows the dress to conform to my body, making it the most flattering hiking dress I have ever owned. Plus, I can move freely, and you certainly need that when you’re conquering rugged terrains.
There is also the U-neckline with a simple yet chic design that’s refreshing against the backdrop of traditional hiking clothes. It’s quite a head-turner on the trails, no doubt about it!
The dress comes with a pair of separate inner shorts that make bathroom breaks much easier while on the trail.
The QINSEN dress is designed with adjustable cross straps that feature an open-back crisscross spaghetti strap design. It took me a minute to get used to the feel, but once I did, I found it made the dress feel airy and breathable.
They’re also quite sturdy – no worries about ripping anything when adjusting the fit.
Speaking of which, I absolutely adore being able to adjust the tightness of the dress. It gives me control over how high up the dress comes on my chest. The dress even comes with removable pads for versatility and convenience.
Verdict
I cannot recommend the QINSEN dress enough to all my fellow hikers. Although it’s not a hiking dress in the traditional sense, it’s affordable, stylish, breathable, and designed with hiker-friendly features.
What Is a Hiking Dress?
In its simplest form, it’s a dress designed specifically for hitting the trails. A hiking dress is more than just a stylish alternative to your standard hiking gear as these dresses are usually made from lightweight, breathable fabrics (nylon, polyester) that wick away moisture, keeping you cool and dry even during strenuous uphill climbs.
A good hiking dress offers the perfect combination of comfort and coverage, which is an absolute must when you’re hiking through dense forests or rocky terrains.
What I Love About Hiking Dresses
What I absolutely love about hiking dresses is their versatility. They’re not just for hiking – they’re perfect for lounging, sightseeing, or even sleeping in (thanks to the comfort factor).
These dresses come equipped with useful pockets, making them the ultimate go-to for any hiker who needs to carry essentials without the hassle of a heavy backpack.
Are There Any Hiking Dress Alternatives?
Hiking dresses are a relatively new trend and there aren’t many options out there yet. But you can definitely explore other options like hiking skirts or even hiking shorts, both of which offer similar features and benefits.
Some hikers might prefer wearing shorts and a tank top or a t-shirt for more freedom of movement.
Others might opt for leggings paired with a lightweight, quick-drying tunic.
There are also tennis/sport dresses and skorts that can work well for hiking, providing the right balance of coverage and breathability.
But in my opinion, nothing beats the convenience and comfort of a hiking dress. It gives you that added element of style that can make your hiking experience even more enjoyable.
How to Choose a Hiking Dress?
Step 1: Fabric First
This is the make-or-break factor for any hiking dress. Your best bet is to go for polyester, nylon, or merino wool. These materials are champions at wicking away sweat, keeping you comfy, and drying super quick.
If you’re planning to hike in a hot climate, choose a fabric with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) of 30 or higher.
On the other hand, if you’ll be trekking through chilly weather, opt for merino wool which not only keeps you warm but also regulates your body temperature.
Step 2: Freedom of Movement
I’m all for looking fabulous on the trails, but if that dress is so tight you can’t climb over a log, it’s a no-go. You need room to move!
So, when trying on a dress, do a little dance in the fitting room. If you can’t bust out your favorite moves, it’s not the one for you.
Step 3: Pockets!
Now onto my favorite feature – pockets! These handy little compartments are a must for stashing your essentials. Snacks, map, lip balm, you name it.
Don’t just settle for a single pocket, the more, the merrier!
Step 4: Layer Lover
Another thing to consider is layering. Mother Nature is fickle, and the weather can change in a flash. That’s why having a dress that you can easily throw a layer on top of, or under, is super important.
Look for dresses with either a zipper front or buttons that can be undone for added ventilation. You can also opt for dresses with adjustable straps so you can layer comfortably without feeling restricted.
Step 5: Season Savvy
Think about the season. If it’s summer, a short-sleeved, lightweight dress should be your go-to. But for winter hikes, you might want to opt for a long-sleeved dress or one that pairs well with a warm layer.
Also, consider the terrain and weather conditions. Will you be facing steep inclines? Then a dress with a cinched waist might not be the best idea.
Can You Hike In a Long Dress?
Yes, you absolutely can! Hiking in a long dress might seem like a fashion statement, but it’s actually a practical choice. Pretty much any type of hike can be handled in a hiking dress, from short day hikes to multi-day trekking adventures.
Let’s start with the obvious – comfort. Dresses are easy on and off and they generally aren’t restrictive. After a long, arduous day on the trails, who wants to wrestle with pants?
But there’s more. Long dresses offer excellent sun protection and, depending on the material, can help with temperature regulation. They’re also great for layering, allowing you to adjust to changing weather conditions.
So much to love about hiking dresses! But before you hit the trails in your maxi dress, there are a few things to consider.
- Make sure the dress is made of a quick-drying, breathable fabric.
- Make sure it’s not too long – you don’t want to trip over your hem halfway up the mountain.
- And finally, trial run. Make sure you hike for at least one hour in your chosen dress to see if you feel comfortable.
Go ahead and rock that long dress on your next hike. Not only will you look fabulous, but you’ll also be comfortable and practical.
Conclusion
Finding a dress that’s specifically made for hiking can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. It’s a relatively new trend among hikers, but it makes perfect sense – comfort and functionality don’t have to come at the expense of style.
As much as I’m head over heels for Fjallraven, I understand that not everyone wants to splurge on their hiking dresses. And that’s perfectly okay!
Remember, just because a dress doesn’t have “hiking” in its name, doesn’t mean it’s not up for the job. You’d be surprised at how many tennis dresses I’ve taken on a hike. They’re lightweight, they’re breathable, and they’ve got those all-important pockets.
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to finding the perfect hiking dress. And when you do find that perfect one, make sure to share your love for it with all your fellow hikers!
Martha Heller
Hey there! I’m Martha, the face behind BigfootHiking.com – a blog I created alongside my husband Lukas. Originally from Phoenix, I’ve made hiking my life’s passion. With over 100 hikes under my belt in the past 7 years, and still counting, I’m always on the move. One of my proudest achievements was conquering Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park. When I’m not on the trails, you’ll find me tinkling on the piano or lost in my drawings. Drop by our blog for tips, tales, and plenty of trail inspiration!