Dressing for 60-degree weather can trip up even seasoned hikers. The temperature can be deceiving, especially if you’re in an area with varying elevation.
Too warm or too cold and you won’t enjoy the journey.
Luckily, we’ve hiked through the confusion to bring you the top 7 picks that hit the sweet spot of hiking bliss. Read on as we unveil the essentials to keep you just right, mile after mile.
Hiking in 60 Degree Weather: Best Clothes Checklist
What to wear hiking in 60 degree weather? You want to be prepared for the possibility of both warm and cool temperatures. The key is to dress in layers so that you can adjust as needed throughout your hike. Complete your ideal outfit with these recommendations:
- Convertible hiking pants (durable and breathable)
- Lightweight long-sleeve shirt (for protection against the sun and bugs)
- Mid-layer fleece or lightweight insulated jacket (for warmth)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket (with a hood for added protection)
- Hat (could be a winter cap or baseball cap depending on preference)
- Gloves (lightweight and possibly fingerless for dexterity)
- Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes (depending on the terrain)
Convertible Hiking Pants
One of the smartest things I’ve picked up over the years are convertible hiking pants. They are my all-time favorite, especially when the weather is sitting around 60 degrees. Let’s dive into what makes them so handy.
Versatility Explained
Imagine you start your trail early in the morning when it’s still a bit chilly. You’ll want the full coverage that pants give you. But as the day heats up, you don’t want to be stuck overheating in long pants. With a quick zip, those pants turn into shorts.
This way, you stay comfy all day without needing to change your outfit.
Material Matters
You might think any pants will do, but if they’re made of the wrong fabric, you’ll feel it quickly. Look for quick-drying materials like nylon or polyester since you never know when you’ll cross a stream or get caught in a surprise drizzle.
Breathable fabrics are recommended too. They keep the airflow moving so you don’t feel all sticky.
And don’t forget about UV protection – just because it’s not super hot doesn’t mean the sun’s rays aren’t strong. I’ve seen hikers come back from hikes with unexpected sunburns on their legs – not fun!
Choosing the Right Fit
When it comes to fit, think comfortable and snug, but not tight. You want room to move.
I always look for pants with an adjustable waistband – they’re a lifesaver when you’ve had a big lunch on the trail.
Practical Tips
Here’s a few practical tips from my own treks:
- Start your hike with pants on in cooler morning weather.
- Zip off to shorts before you start feeling too warm, usually midday.
- If you’re hiking in areas with tall grass or brush, keep them as pants to protect against ticks and scrapes.
Convertible pants also mean you carry less gear, freeing up space in your backpack for other essentials, like snacks (always pack extra snacks).
Lightweight Long-Sleeve Shirt
When you hit the trails in 60-degree weather, wearing a lightweight long-sleeve shirt can make all the difference. They’re like your personal shield against the sun and keep you cool when the hike gets intense.
Protection and Comfort
With a quality long-sleeve shirt, you get the sun protection you need without feeling too hot. Look for a shirt that feels light on your skin and lets air move through. This way, you get coverage without the sweat.
Fabric Technology
The right fabric does wonders. Materials like polyester, nylon, or merino wool that wick moisture away from your skin and dry fast will keep you comfortable.
On long hikes, especially those where you might break a sweat even in cooler weather, this is key. I’ve worn shirts made of these fabrics that seemed great but left me feeling damp after a few hours.
Layering Foundation
Think of your long-sleeve shirt as the base of your hiking outfit. It’s the layer that touches your skin, so it has to be right. When it gets cooler, especially as the sun dips or if you’re hiking at higher elevations, pop another layer on top.
You stay warm without changing your whole outfit in this way.
Smart Selection
Here’s what I look out for when picking my shirts:
- Underarm vents – they let extra heat escape; it’s like having built-in air conditioning.
- Roll-up sleeves – sometimes, just rolling up your sleeves can cool you down enough.
- High collars – these can protect your neck from getting burned when the sun is beating down on you.
A good lightweight long-sleeve shirt is one of the most versatile pieces you can have with you. It doesn’t matter if you’re on a casual hike or pushing yourself up a steep incline, it helps regulate your temperature and protects you from the elements.
There’s something comforting about having your arms covered against the brush and bugs. Next time you’re gearing up for a hike in mild weather, give it a shot. You’ll see what a difference it can make.
Mid-Layer Fleece or Lightweight Insulated Jacket
Insulation Needs
Even if it feels warm at the trailhead, shaded areas or a light breeze can send a chill right through you. That’s where a good mid-layer comes in. It keeps your body heat close when the temperature drops.
And let’s not forget about those rest stops – when you take a break, your body cools down fast. A fleece or insulated jacket saves the day.
Fleece vs. Insulated Jacket
Fleece is great for staying warm and letting your skin breathe. It’s soft too. But, if any wind kicks up, you’ll feel it unless your fleece has a wind-resistant layer.
And what about lightweight insulated jackets? They’re usually better at cutting wind and sometimes even shrug off a little rain. When I was hiking along the coast of Oregon, my insulated jacket kept the ocean breeze from biting too hard.
Packability
You want your mid-layer to vanish into your backpack when you don’t need it. Bulky jackets that eat up space are a no-go. Look for something that packs down small.
Layering Technique
Putting on and taking off layers shouldn’t feel like you’re wrestling with your clothes.
- Zippered Options: When you start to heat up, just pull that zipper down before you break a sweat.
- Stretchy Side Panels: If you’re scrambling over rocks or reaching for a trail marker, you’ll want that extra give in the fabric.
- Sleeve Thumbholes: These help keep your hands warm and stop your sleeves from bunching up.
Remember, the goal is to enjoy your hike without fussing over your gear. You’re going for warm but not too warm, protected but free to move. Next time that perfect 60-degree day comes round, you’ll be ready to make the most of it.
Waterproof and Windproof Jacket
When you head out on a trail, the sky can be clear one minute and cloudy the next. That’s why I always pack a waterproof and windproof jacket, no matter if it’s 60 degrees or hotter.
Breathability is Key
A jacket that holds in all your sweat might keep rain out, but it will leave you feeling like you’re in a sauna. You need something that lets your sweat escape.
Look for jackets with breathable membranes as they keep water out but let the vapor from your sweat out too. For example, brands like Gore-Tex, eVent, and Polartec offer excellent options with advanced breathability features.
Features to Look For
A jacket isn’t just about being water and windproof. It needs to have the right features. Here are some things I never overlook:
- Adjustable Hoods: Make sure the hood can cinch down so it doesn’t blow off when the wind picks up.
- Cuffs and Hem Adjustments: Snug these up to keep the cold wind out. Elastic or Velcro works fine.
- Underarm Zippers: Also known as pit zips – these are a lifesaver. When you start heating up, zip them open to cool down without taking off your whole jacket.
Packing Tips
You want your jacket where you can grab it fast. So, don’t bury it at the bottom of your pack. Fold it neatly or roll it up, and tuck it near the top or in an outside pocket.
Practice putting it on and taking it off while holding your pack. You’ll be surprised how often this comes in handy.
Hat
When you’re hiking, a hat shields you from the sun, keeps light rain off your face, and cuts down on wind that could chill you.
Sun and Element Protection
Think of a hat as your personal shade tree. I learned this while walking in the Grand Canyon, where shade is rare. A good hat blocks those rays and can help prevent sunburn on your face and neck.
Even when the sky turns gray, a hat can keep that drizzle out of your eyes.
Material Considerations
You want a hat that breathes and doesn’t turn into a sweat lodge on your head. Look for materials that say “moisture-wicking” or have UV protection built-in. Mesh panels are great for extra airflow, too. And if a hat can dry quickly after getting wet, that’s a big plus.
Fit and Functionality
Ever had a hat fly off in a gust of wind? Make sure your hat fits well and check if it has a strap or band helps keep it on when the wind picks up.
Some hats have a drawstring which you can tighten under your chin. This can be really handy when you’re crossing open areas or peaks where wind likes to mess with hikers.
Style vs. Practicality
We all want to look good in our gear but when choosing a hat, think function first. That said, if you find one that’s both practical and matches your style, you’ll feel great wearing it, and that boosts your spirits on the trail.
So, when you’re getting ready for that 60-degree hike, don’t forget your hat. It’s simple, but it makes a big difference. After all, you want to enjoy the views without squinting into the sun or wiping rain out of your eyes.
Gloves
When you head out in the morning and the air is still cool, light gloves can make a big difference. You think 60 degrees feels warm but sometimes your fingers can get really cold, especially if you start early in the day or are up at higher elevations where it’s chillier.
Material Choice
You’re looking for something that keeps the warmth in but lets your skin breathe. Imagine climbing a steep hill and your hands start to sweat.
Moisture-wicking materials pull that dampness away from your skin. This means gloves made of synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon. Some wool is good too as it warms and doesn’t hold moisture.
Touchscreen Compatibility
We’ve all been there – needing to check the map on our phone or snap a quick photo, and the gloves just get in the way. Gloves that work with touchscreen devices mean you can do this without bare hands getting cold.
It’s a small thing that makes a big difference.
Storage Solutions
When the sun climbs high and things heat up, you might not need your gloves. Have a plan for where to put them.
A jacket pocket is good, or even better, clip them to your backpack strap. That way, they’re always within easy reach.
Keep in mind, gloves aren’t just about keeping warm. They protect your hands from sunburn, scratches from branches and rocks, and even blisters from using trekking poles. So even when 60 degrees seems warm, a pair of gloves can be your best hiking buddy.
Sturdy Hiking Boots or Trail Shoes
When I think about stepping on a hidden root or getting my foot caught between rocks, I am thankful for my sturdy boots.
When it’s 60 degrees out, you might think any shoes will do, but choosing the right ones is beyond important.
Terrain Match
- Boots for Rocky Paths: If I’m heading for rough, uneven terrain, I grab my hiking boots. Their solid soles and ankle support have saved me more than once from twists and falls.
- Trail Shoes for Flatter Tracks: On well-maintained or flat paths, trail shoes work great. They are lighter and help me feel nimble. Plus, they usually breathe better, keeping my feet cool as the day heats up.
Fit and Break-in
You want snug, not tight and there should be a little room to wiggle your toes. When I got my last pair, here’s what I did:
- Wear the kind of socks you’ll hike in.
- Go shopping in the afternoon (feet swell throughout the day).
- Walk around, climb stairs or an incline board if the store has one.
Water Resistance
Morning dew, puddles, or unexpected stream crossings — dry feet are happy feet. When I was hiking in Yosemite, a sudden downpour made me grateful for my waterproof boots. So yes, even in 60-degree weather, go water-resistant or waterproof.
Sock Pairing
Socks and shoes should be a team. Thick socks in tight shoes can cause blisters, while thin socks in roomy boots won’t protect you from rubbing. Here’s how I pair them:
- Warm Weather: Lighter, moisture-wicking socks keep my feet dry and cool.
- For Extra Cushioning: Padded socks on long descents save my toes from hitting the front of the shoe.
Remember, your feet take you everywhere on the trail. Take care of them with the right shoes or boots, and they’ll take care of you.
What Do You Wear in Cloudy 60 Degree Weather?
When hiking in cloudy 60-degree weather compared to sunny weather of the same temperature, there are a few tweaks you’ll want to make to your outfit to stay comfortable:
Cloudy 60-Degree Hiking Outfit:
- Top Layer: A moisture-wicking long-sleeve base layer to keep you dry.
- Insulating Layer: A fleece or lightweight synthetic jacket that retains heat.
- Pants: Breathable, moisture-wicking fabric. Full-length to protect against cooler air.
- Accessories: Light hat and thin gloves can help in case the clouds lead to a cooler environment.
Sunny 60-Degree Hiking Outfit:
- Top Layer: You might opt for a short-sleeve base layer since you’re likely to feel warmer without the cloud cover.
- Insulating Layer: Typically not needed, but you could bring a lightweight hoodie or sweatshirt just in case.
- Pants: The same breathable pants work here, but consider convertible pants that can turn into shorts if you get too warm.
- Accessories: Swap the light hat for a brimmed sun hat for UV protection, and you likely won’t need gloves.
The main difference comes down to the insulating layer and accessories. Cloudy weather often feels cooler and lacks the psychological warmth of the sun, prompting you to wear slightly warmer clothing.
In contrast, the direct sunlight on a clear day can make temperatures feel warmer and increase sweating, so fewer layers and proper sun protection would be necessary.
Conclusion
The key to a comfortable hiking experience in 60-degree weather lies in understanding the fine balance between staying warm and preventing overheating.
With the top 7 picks outlined in this guide – including layering options, material choices, and the all-important footwear – you’ll be well-equipped to embrace the trails.
Always be prepared to adjust your outfit to account for changes in weather, be it a turn towards cooler, cloud-covered paths or a sunlit trek that brings warmth.
Lukas Heller
Hey there! I’m Lukas, co-founder of BigfootHiking.com, alongside my adventurous wife Martha. Originally from Germany, I landed in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2015, where I’ve been scouting out new trails ever since (though they’re getting scarce!). By day, I’m a software developer, but my heart belongs to hiking – I’m always plotting our next trip. When I’m not coding or on the trails, you’ll find me hanging out with our Pit Bull, Zeus.
