Can You Wear a Dress to Hike?
So you’re planning a hike, and are hoping to wear a dress instead of pants.
I totally understand this as someone who completley agrees that dresses are far more comfortable than pants! The breeze, the flowiness, they’re just all around better!
Ultimately, the answer to your question, can you wear a dress to hike, is YES! But there are a few things to keep in mind.
Let’s get into it!
Can You Wear a Dress to Hike?
Absolutely, you can wear a dress to go hiking—I’ve done it plenty of times myself! Hiking in a dress can actually be super comfortable, especially in warmer weather.
The key is choosing the right kind of dress: look for something that’s lightweight, breathable, and allows for easy movement. Plus, it should have built-in shorts underneath!
I usually go for a cute athletic dress that has pockets, built-in shorts, and is very lightweight and fast drying!
Choosing dresses that are typically used as workout clothes is a great option, as they typically check all of those boxes!
Pros of Hiking in a Dress
There are quite a few pros of hiking in a dress, so let’s hop into them.
Great Breathability
Unlike thick and heavy pants that sit on your legs or shorts that squeeze you in places you don’t want to be squeezed, dresses are so breathable to wear on the trail.
Especially on hot days, this is perfect for staying comfortable and not getting too warm.
Flowy and Stretchy
The right hiking dress will move with you, not against you. Look for one made with a little stretch—something that doesn’t feel stiff when you’re stepping over logs or climbing rocks.
I personally choose the stretchiest one I can find, so that way when I’m moving around on the trail, it just stretches with me and I don’t have any issues!
Comfortable
If comfort is a top priority (which it definitely is for me when I’m hiking), dresses check the box.
No waistband digging in, no adjusting leggings every few minutes—just easy, comfy movement.
And when they already have built-in shorts, you don’t ever have to worry about anything showing either. Win-win!
They’re Cute!
And let’s be real? Who doesn’t want to look cute while they’re on the trail?
Wearing a dress can help you feel a little bit nicer than the standard baggy shorts and crop top.
And choosing a fun, bright color makes it even better!
Cons of Hiking in a Dress
Aside from the pros, there are a few cons to be on the lookout for when wearing a dress.
Less Coverage
If you’re someone who likes to have more coverage while you’re hiking, then a dress might not be for you.
Pants offer more protection from sun, branches, and bugs. So wearing a dress puts you at a higher risk of these things.
However, most of these are avoidable by paying attention, wearing sunscreen, and wearing bugspray.
Not as Warm
If you’re out and it ends up getting chilly, wearing a dress can be less than ideal.
It can end up feeling pretty chilly without pants to cover your legs!
However, you typically won’t be wearing a dress in the winter… so just make sure you’re only wearing a dress on warmer days!
Not Ideal for Technical Hikes
If you’re going on a very technical hike with lots of rocks, stumps, and roots to climb over, a dress might not be ideal.
You’ll want your legs to be protected in those instances, so you’ll want to choose a pair of pants instead.
However, for shorter, less technical hikes, a dress can be a great option.
What to Look for in a Hiking Dress
There are a few things to look for when choosing a hiking dress! Let’s go over them!
Lightweight
Choosing a lightweight and breathable dress will make your day on the trail that much better.
This means that you won’t be as sweaty, you’ll dry faster, you’ll stay nice and cool, and you’ll be more comfortable!
Stretchy and Flexible
Movement is everything when you’re hiking, and a dress that stretches with you makes all the difference.
Whether you’re climbing over a log or bending down to tie your shoes, stretchy fabric keeps things more comfortable.
Stay away from cottons and other stiff fabrics. You’ll want to choose a fabric that is nice and soft, stretchy, and flexible.
Built-In Shorts
Something I never buy a dress without – built-in shorts!
Built-in shorts make hiking in a dress feel secure and easy, especially on windy days or when you’re climbing.
That way, there’s no need to worry about anything riding up or showing more than you want.
Plus they sometimes have pockets, which is a win-win!
Length
I recommend not choosing one that’s too short or too long.
I like right around mid-thigh, because this length doesn’t seem to rise up too much, but it also doesn’t get caught on my knees or drag on the ground.
Of course, choose a length that’s comfortable for you, but try to stick to the mid-thigh to knee height lengths!
Conclusion: So, Should I Hike in a Dress?
Ultimately, the decision is totally up to you. But I’ve personally found that hiking in a dress can be far more comfortable than pants!
As long as you choose one that has shorts underneath, is flexible, and isn’t too long, you will have a great time on the trail, no matter what you wear!
