As a Fashion Editor and a lifelong hiking enthusiast, here are 12 items I adore wearing that combine both functionality and style.
From as far back as I can remember, I've always had a passion for being outdoors in nature. Growing up in England, I would spend most of my vacations and weekends traversing the national parks—scaling the peaceful and varied peaks of Snowdonia, wandering through the lakes and scenery of the Lake District, and uncovering the heritage, history, and expansive skies of Northumberland. In my early 20s, I undertook a transformative and soul-searching 26-mile trek (the three-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu), which was undoubtedly the most challenging, rewarding, and unforgettable journey of my life. I've also been fortunate to hike on the beautiful trails in Valle del Elqui in Chile and sleep beneath the stars in Patagonia, Argentina. Now residing in Los Angeles, I continue to explore the stunning hikes available in the area, and I'm gradually ticking off the American national parks on my bucket list. I've marveled at the Grand Canyon and explored Acadia National Park, with Yosemite next on my list! If you ever need some inspiration or support to enjoy the mental and emotional benefits of hiking in the great outdoors, I’m here for you.
Regarding hiking gear—especially clothing—I’ve tested a variety of options over the years, and today, I’d like to share some brands and items I appreciate. As an enthusiastic hiker and fashion editor, I'm constantly on the lookout for pieces that merge functionality and style. Since I often hit local L.A. trails on weekends, it’s essential to have versatile items that can easily transition from the trail to a coffee date. Many of the pieces I’ve listed below accomplish just that. They’re comfortable and practical while also looking chic. Keep scrolling to explore my hiking recommendations!
Patagonia
The Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece Jacket is my most frequently used piece for hiking, after-hikes, and everything in between! I've had mine for nearly a decade, and it's still in excellent shape. It's cozy, warm, and features multiple handy pockets.
I’m a big fan of Patagonia's Baggies Shorts. Available in a range of stylish colors, they are crafted from lightweight, quick-drying recycled nylon made from reused fishing nets to combat ocean plastic pollution, plus they have a durable water-repellent finish. These are my top choice for warm-weather hikes in L.A.
When I need to stay warm, I turn to my Patagonia Micro Puff. It's ultralight and water-repellent, with plenty of pockets. Highly compressible, it can fold into a small pouch, which is perfect for long hikes with fluctuating temperatures. I also adore the chic color options.
Hikerkind
One of my favorite recent discoveries for hiking gear is Hikerkind. The brand nails the aesthetics with the perfect mix of performance and style. Minimalist and streamlined, it's ideal for those who want to feel and look chic while hiking, and the pieces easily transition to everyday wear after a hike. Their Midlayer quilted pullover is a personal favorite that I wear frequently, not just for hikes. It’s a superb layering piece with a stylish waffle texture that’s soft and breathable, available in a selection of stunning colors, perfect for everything from scaling mountains to relaxing at a café.
Just look at this lovely windbreaker! It's on its way to me right now. It's breathable, lightweight, and packable—designed for versatility with a vented style and easy layering fit. It's fantastic for travel as it packs down small, and it’s so stylish too!
Free People Movement
For trend-aware hiking apparel, Free People Movement should be your go-to. The designs, silhouettes, and colors consistently feel modern and effortlessly stylish. There are several pieces from the brand that I regularly wear on and off the trails. For hikes, I love their low-rise fleece-lined pants, which are incredibly warm and comfortable, coming in three adaptable shades. I usually pair these with the Hit the Slopes Colorblock Fleece Pullover, which has a relaxed, slouchy fit ideal for chilly mornings. Speaking of fleeces, one of my favorite styles, which garners the most compliments, is my Hit the Slopes Fleece Jacket that I wear frequently over tank tops and tees. It boasts an impressive silhouette perfect for both active and street wear.
Merrell, Teva, and Salomon
Over the years, I’ve developed a fondness for three hiking shoe brands—Merrell (my absolute favorite), Teva, and Salomon. I have various styles from all three. I adore the versatile Moab 3 from Merrell, designed for rugged trails with plenty of obstacles. Teva’s hiking sandals are my go-to for water hikes, featuring a quick-drying design and grippy rubber outsole; I always order half a size larger than my usual. My Salomon XT-6s are the most visually appealing and fashion-forward, making them my choice for days spent transitioning
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As a Fashion Editor and a lifelong hiking enthusiast, here are 12 items I adore wearing that combine both functionality and style.
Judith Jones, a fashion editor and passionate hiker, reveals her preferred hiking gear that combines both functionality and style.
