Now that most of the snow has melted and many local trails have opened, it's time to gear up for a summer of outdoor adventures. But how does one dress for success when facing the unpredictable elements of nature? Nature is full of organisms whose adaptations allow them to weather changing conditions in comfort. Essential outdoor clothing combines science and engineering to mimic animal adaptations that were perfected over millennia.
An essential strategy for proper outdoor attire is the layering system, which allows us to regulate body temperature and maintain adaptability throughout changing conditions. Many animals have this built-in on their bodies. Think of a bighorn sheep's dense, insulating wool. The wool can wick moisture away from the animal’s skin while continuing to provide warmth, even when dampness sneaks past their guard hairs. You may have noticed something similar on your dog, who likely has a coarse outer coat and a downy undercoat. The undercoat acts as a base and insulating layer, keeping moisture away from the skin while holding warm air close to it, and the outer coat creates a water- and wind-resistant barrier from the elements.
Perhaps wool and fur aren’t the first thing you think of for summer attire. After all, a human’s bare skin excels at shedding heat. But since we generally wear some clothing, choosing appropriate materials can make a huge difference in your comfort. The base layer is worn directly against the skin and is crucial for managing temperature by wicking moisture. Ultra-fine merino fibers naturally transport sweat away from the body in the form of vapor, promoting the chilling effect of evaporative cooling when exposed to air. Synthetics, often made from polyester, are engineered to dry rapidly in a similar fashion.
As you climb to higher elevations or spend time outside in the late evening, you may find yourself reaching for an insulating layer. The more air a material can hold per unit of weight, the better its insulating properties are. Trapping the air closer to our bodies allows humans and wild animals alike to maintain body heat. For this, we often turn to birds. Geese, among many others, have layers of fine feathers that trap air to create a thermal barrier against the cold. The use of natural and synthetic goose down is extremely popular in the design of jackets and vests because of the high warmth-to-weight ratio. Humans have also designed fleece clothing to achieve the same insulative effect. Fleece jackets, pants, and hats offer outdoor adventurers benefits from the natural loft of the fabric, even when they are sitting around the campsite. And here’s where the magic of the base layer comes back into play: once your wool (or well-designed synthetic) base layer is covered by another layer, it warms instead of cools you. This is because the moisture is no longer exposed to evaporation, and the plethora of microscopic air pockets in the fibers retain your warmth.
In the mountains, no layering system is complete without preparation for wind and water. Our clothing shield against the rain, snow, and wind is the outer shell layer. Consider the tough, water-resistant scales of a reptile or the tightly woven, overlapping feathers of a bird. Insulation is most effective when it stays dry and fluffy, so the goal is to have the elements roll off “like water off a duck’s back”, literally. Modern outdoor shells for rain and snow feature waterproof-breathable membranes and are engineered for users to remain comfortable, no matter the weather or activity. These fabrics have dual functionality, allowing moisture from perspiration to escape and preventing clammy-feeling skin, while also blocking rain and wind and keeping us dry. The Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish that is applied to the exterior of these shells further enhances their water-shedding capabilities, much like the natural oils that a beaver spreads over its fur to encourage water to bead up and roll off.
Beyond the three main layers of clothing, different outdoor activities may require specialized clothing. Hiking pants, for instance, often feature articulated knees and fabrics that stretch to allow for unrestricted movement. Footwear, with its supportive and grippy soles provides hikers with superior traction on a variety of surfaces, is reminiscent of the textured pads and claws of mountain lions.
Ultimately, dressing for outdoor adventures is about protecting yourself and keeping safe while also respecting and learning from the natural world. By understanding how animals thrive in diverse environments, we can select equipment that allows us to explore, endure, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors responsibly and comfortably. As you prepare for your next adventure, remember that your clothing isn't just fabric: it's a testament to nature's adaptations and wisdom.
Lara Carlson is the Senior Programs Director at Walking Mountains. She enjoys staying warm and dry while exploring outdoors and observing wildlife.
