Men’s Hiking Apparel

Men’s Hiking Apparel at Arc'teryx

Hiking apparel works as a system. The sun hits you at the trailhead, scrub and rock wear on the legs by midday, and a cold snap or a storm can arrive before you are back at the car. Our men’s hiking clothes are built around that cycle, with light fabrics that move with your stride, layers that vent heat on the climb and protection that packs small for the days the weather turns.

Hiking Clothes for Hot Days

Hot-day hiking clothes start with what you wear against the skin and on your legs. A long-sleeve hiking shirt covers your arms from the sun while moving sweat away, and hiking shorts keep your legs cool on the climb. The Incendo Short 9" Men’s is a hiking short that weighs 114 g with a UPF 40 rating, and the Gamma SL Short 9" Men’s is a softshell hiking short with UPF 50+ and a zippered thigh pocket that sheds light rain and wind.

Men’s Hiking Apparel for Changing Weather

Cold mornings call for hiking apparel you can take off once the climb heats you up. A hiking fleece such as the Kyanite Lightweight Hoody or the hollow-core Delta Jacket breathes while you work, and a light hiking jacket cuts the wind on an exposed ridgeline. Wear each layer on its own or stack them as the temperature drops.

Waterproof Hiking Gear for Storms and Rain

Waterproof hiking gear earns its place when the forecast has rain in it. A waterproof hiking jacket with a GORE-TEX membrane and sealed seams keeps the weather out when a front arrives, and waterproof hiking pants protect your legs through long, wet descents. Pack them on every walk where the weather could turn, and leave them at home on settled days when weight matters more.

A Men’s Hiking Outfit for New Zealand Tracks

A men’s hiking outfit for New Zealand tracks needs a tough lower half, because scrub, sun and rocky ground are hard on legs and feet. Softshell hiking pants such as our all-season Gamma stretch with your stride, and a tight weave resists snags on scrub. Finish from the ground up with hiking socks and hiking shoes sized for the terrain, and see our layering guide for how the pieces work together.

Men’s Hiking Apparel FAQs

What should I wear hiking?

Wear hiking clothes in layers: a light, wicking top, shorts or stretch pants, a warm layer in the pack and a jacket for wind and rain. Add a hat for the sun and footwear that is broken in before the walk. Adjust each layer to the forecast and the length of the day.

Why are cotton clothes a poor choice for hiking?

Cotton hiking clothes soak up sweat and rain and hold it, so wet cotton stays heavy and takes a long time to dry. Synthetic and wool fabrics move moisture away from your skin and dry faster, which is why they work better on long or wet walks.

What are the best men's hiking clothes for New Zealand summer?

The best hiking clothes for New Zealand summer are light, breathable shorts and a long-sleeve top with a UPF rating, plus a hat to cover your face and neck. Carry a light jacket as well, because exposed ridgelines and afternoon storms can drop the temperature fast.

Do I need waterproof hiking gear on every walk?

Waterproof hiking gear is not needed on every walk. Carry waterproofs when rain is forecast or the weather is unsettled, especially in the mountains, where conditions change quickly. On a short, settled day, a light windproof jacket is often enough.