Camping Gear Clearance

Three layers to adapt to the terrain and weather

An effective hiking outfit relies on three layers that you can add or remove throughout the day. Next to your skin, a technical t-shirt, like the adidas Terrex Climacool, wicks away sweat during the climb instead of retaining it like cotton does. On top, a fleece keeps you warm during breaks and on the ridges: the Helly Hansen Versalite, with a hood, or the Didriksons Mella, full-zip, can also be worn alone in dry weather. Finally, a protective jacket blocks wind and rain. The double fleece windbreaker Peak Mountain Ajik combines the last two layers for chilly outings without showers.

Other clearance items

Hiking clearance also includes:

• Hiking shoes.
• Bags, backpacks.
• Equipment, poles and water bottles.

All clearance items are gathered on the hiking page.

Waterproof jacket: water column and compactness

A rain jacket is judged by its water column, measured in millimetres, and its sealed seams, where water can otherwise seep through. Didriksons, founded in 1913 in Grundsund on Sweden's west coast, originally dressed fishermen: its Ilma, Erika, or Fia parkas and Tove jacket inherit this expertise against cold rain and wind. For the hiker who wants to travel light, the Regatta Pack-It folds into its own pocket and fits in a corner of the backpack. The Dare 2B Arising, more structured, offers protection on exposed routes where the rain may last.

Modular trousers, shorts, and insect-repellent shirts

In summer or in the tropics, a few pieces simplify the backpack. The modular trousers Regatta Travel Light convert into shorts by unzipping the lower legs: you set out covered in the cool morning and finish in shorts in the afternoon heat. The Élémenterre Bacoachi shorts and the two-in-one Dare 2B Nimble shorts, lined with a tight fit short to prevent chafing between the thighs, are suitable for long stages in hot weather. The insect-repellent shirt Regatta, with long sleeves, is treated to repel mosquitoes and ticks in wet forests or while travelling, while also protecting arms from the sun.

Socks Monnet: prevent blisters

A blister can ruin a hike much more surely than a shower, and the socks play a crucial role here. Monnet, a sock manufacturer from Montceau-les-Mines since the 1930s and labelled a Living Heritage Company, makes all its socks in Burgundy. The Mid Perf, with a short cuff, pairs with low shoes and day hikes; the Trek Medium, higher and thicker, protects the ankle in a high-top hiking boot. The reinforcements at the heel and toe absorb shocks on descents, and a seamless knit on the toes avoids friction.

Frequently asked questions

Fleece or softshell for hiking?

The fleece is warmer and highly breathable but lets wind through. The softshell, denser and often water-resistant, blocks the chill on the ridges and withstands light rain: it’s a good single jacket for mid-season outings.

Why avoid cotton when hiking?

Cotton absorbs sweat and dries slowly: once at the top of the pass, a wet t-shirt cools the body with the first gust of wind. Synthetic fibres and merino wool wick away moisture and keep warmth.

Parkas or waterproof jackets for walking?

The parka, long and often lined, is suitable for leisurely walks in cold weather and daily commutes. For hiking with elevation changes, a lightweight waterproof and breathable jacket prevents sweating during the ascent.

How to re-waterproof a hiking jacket?

Wash it with a detergent for technical textiles, without fabric softener, then reactivate the water-repellent treatment with low heat if the label allows it. When water no longer beads, a spray or soak water-repellent product restores effectiveness.

How to dress for a summer hike?

Choose a light technical t-shirt, a pair of shorts or lightweight modular trousers, and keep a compact windbreaker in the backpack. In the mountains, the temperature drops with altitude and a storm may break out in the afternoon.