The Hawaiian hiking experience is nothing short of spectacular. But hiking in Hawaii is a bit more than just a walk in the park – you’re hiking through rainforests, volcanic terrains, and coastal trails. Those are all challenging terrains and if you think that a pair of shorts and flip-flops will do, you will regret your clothing choices very soon.
So, what to wear while hiking in Hawaii?
I’ll walk you through 5 must-have clothes for both men and women to stay comfortable and safe. Read on to make sure you are well-prepared for all possible scenarios while hiking in Hawaii!
What to Wear Hiking in Hawaii? 5 Essentials for Every Hiker
Dressing for the Hawaiian trails is about comfort, safety, and adaptation to the changing conditions. You need to factor in the heat, the cold, and the possibility of rain.
Here’s a quick checklist of what to wear while hiking in Hawaii:
- Hiking Boots or Trail Shoes
- Moisture-Wicking Tops
- Long-Sleeve Shirts
- Hiking Shorts or Lightweight Pants
- Rain Jacket
Hiking Boots or Trail Shoes
You’re going to be dealing with some diverse terrain – lush rainforests, rocky volcanoes, and sandy beaches. You’ll need footwear that can handle it ALL.
Stepping on a sharp lava rock or slipping on a mossy trail is a frequent sight on Hawaiian trails. A sturdy pair of hiking boots or trail shoes with a solid grip will help protect you from these potential hazards effectively. They provide ankle support and improve balance, ensuring that unexpected stumbles don’t ruin your day.
Hawaii’s tropical climate also plays a role. It rains frequently, making trails muddy and slippery. That’s why water-resistant footwear is perfect in such conditions.
Moisture-Wicking Tops: A Must for Hawaiian Trails
A moisture-wicking top made a huge difference as I was hiking up the breathtaking (and dangerous) Kalalau Trail in 2017. The sun was beating down, my heart rate was up, and the sweat started to pour mercilessly. With a regular cotton top, that sweat would soak into my shirt, making it heavy and uncomfortable.
But with a quality moisture-wicking top, that sweat was pulled away nicely, allowing it to evaporate quickly. I felt surprisingly cool and dry.
So, while it might be tempting to pack your favorite cotton t-shirt, for a Hawaiian hike, a moisture-wicking top is the way to go. It’s a small change that can make a huge difference in your comfort and enjoyment on the trail.
Pro Tip: When shopping for a moisture-wicking top, look for ones made of synthetic materials like polyester or nylon. These materials are not only great at wicking away moisture but also dry quickly, which is a bonus if you get caught in one of Hawaii’s sudden rain showers.
Long-Sleeve Shirt is Your Shield Against the Sun and Scratches
Hawaii’s beautiful trails are known for their lush greenery, but this also means they can be dense and overgrown. A long-sleeve shirt will protect your arms from sun and scratches or scrapes as you navigate through the vegetation.
But won’t a long-sleeve shirt be too hot?
Not if you choose the right material! Opt for a shirt made of lightweight, breathable fabric like merino wool or a synthetic blend. They will keep you cool while also wicking away sweat.
Pro Tip: Look for a long-sleeve shirt with roll-up sleeves. This gives you the flexibility to adjust your coverage based on the weather and the trail conditions.
Choosing the Right Bottoms: Shorts vs. Pants
What should you choose – shorts or pants? It depends on the trail and weather conditions. On a hot, clear day on a well-maintained trail, shorts work for me just fine. But if I’m heading into dense brush or expect cooler weather, pants are a much safer choice.
Shorts are a favorite among many for their freedom and breathability. They keep you cool on those hot summer hikes and allow for greater mobility. But they do have their downsides.
Without the protection of pants, you’re more exposed to the elements, which could mean:
- Sunburn
- Insect bites
- Scratches from rough terrain
Pants offer much more protection than shorts. Lightweight hiking pants shield you from the sun, insects, and prickly plants. Unfortunately, they can also trap heat, which might not be ideal in hot weather.
Wear Rain Jacket to Stay Dry in Hawaiian Showers
Hawaii isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Those lush green landscapes and cascading waterfalls you see in postcards? They’re courtesy of frequent rain showers so I’d say a good quality rain jacket isn’t just a nice-to-have in Hawaii, it’s downright necessary.
But what kind should you get?
You’ll want something breathable and lightweight. There’s nothing worse than feeling like you’re wrapped in plastic, sweating bullets while you’re trying to enjoy your hike.
Nice-to-Haves While Hiking in Hawaii
We’ve covered the integral part – your outfit. But if you’re wondering “What else could I possibly need while hiking in Hawaii?” then take a look at this list of additional things you could bring for your trip:
- Hat with a Brim – A good quality hat with a wide brim offers better protection compared to standard baseball caps. My personal favorite is a breathable, lightweight hat that doesn’t add any unnecessary weight to my backpack.
- Lightweight Fleece or Sweater – Even though Hawaii is known for its warm weather, the temperature can drop significantly when you’re hiking at higher altitudes. That’s why I always pack a lightweight fleece or sweater just in case. It’s not a heavy-duty winter jacket, but it’s perfect for those chilly breezes or sudden rain showers you might encounter on your hike.
- Bandana or Neck Gaiter – They can serve multiple purposes – from wiping sweat off your brow, acting as a makeshift mask, or even protecting your neck from the sun. It’s one of my all-favorite nice-to-haves.
- Light Gloves – They might not seem necessary in a Hawaiian tropical climate, but some trails have rough terrain or require you to climb over rocks. Light gloves provide extra grip and protect your hands from scratches or blisters. I’ve found them particularly helpful when traversing through dense forest areas.
What to Wear Hiking in Maui?
This beautiful island offers trails that are as unique as they are breathtaking, and they come with their own set of considerations. That’s because in Maui, your regular hiking gear might not cut it. The weather here is a tropical cocktail of sun, rain, and humidity.
So what should you wear while hiking in Maui?
- Lightweight, breathable clothing: Due to the tropical climate, it’s best to opt for clothes that won’t weigh you down or make you feel too hot.
- Waterproof jacket: Sudden showers are common in Maui, so having a waterproof jacket can keep you dry and comfortable.
- Water-resistant shoes: Trails in Maui often involve crossing streams or navigating wet terrain, so water-resistant footwear is essential. I recommend sturdy hiking boots but good-quality hiking sandals with straps will come in handy too.
- Hiking socks: These will provide additional comfort and help prevent blisters during your hike.
- Hat and sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun’s rays with a hat and a pair of sunglasses.
- Swimsuit (optional): If your trail involves a beach or a waterfall, you might want to bring a swimsuit.
Ready for Hawaiian Trails?
The best hiker is a prepared hiker, especially in Hawaii.
Hiking in this beautiful place is an experience like no other. The lush landscapes, the breathtaking views, the sense of adventure – it’s all waiting for you and after reading this guide you’re ready to take it on. Go out there, soak in the beauty, and make unforgettable memories without worrying about your hiking wardrobe.
