Hiking

Hiking in Iceland: What to Wear for Hiking in Iceland


The trick to dressing for the Icelandic climate is to be prepared for quick weather changes. Dressing in layers for example is essential, as well as choosing the right kind of materials. The right clothing helps staying warm, but avoids overheating too.


Men's Hiking Trousers

Women's Hiking Trousers

Good hiking trousers should be durable, comfortable, and provide protection from the environment you're exploring. Icewear offers a great selection of hiking trousers with various features suited for different activities and terrains. 

Icelandic Wool Sweaters

Wool sweaters make excellent mid-layers, providing warmth, water resistance, and breathability.

Hiking Boots & Shoes

Wearing the right footwear on your expeditions is very important. It needs to keep your feet warm and dry, provide support for your ankles, and offer better grip, protecting you from slippery trails and rocky surfaces.

Base Layers

Base layers are crucial for staying warm. Merino wool is one of the best options, as it is lightweight, regulates body temperature, breathes well, and naturally wicks away moisture.

Shell jackets & trousers

Layering correctly matters

When hiking you want to be comfortable – the right clothing makes all the difference.

Inadequate layering or using the wrong materials can easily leave you too hot or too cold. Overdressing can lead to excessive sweating and not enough layers will leave you cold. When you wear the right layers and the correct materials in the right order you are free to enjoy your hike. To achieve this, you need:

  • Purpose designed moisture wicking base layer

  • An insulating mid layer

  • Weather resistant outer lay

Get these right and your temperature will be regulated, and you will be comfortable. Something that’s especially key in Iceland where the weather is constantly changing. Read more about layering and moisture management in this blog article.

Correctly fitting clothing equals comfort

Selecting the best materials is a great start. The next step to being dressed well for hiking is choosing clothing that fits you well. Especially the base layer. Poorly fitting clothing or rough seams may lead to chafing and discomfort on longer hikes and a loose base layer will not keep you warm. When trying on clothing always pay attention to areas such as the inner thighs, underarms and shoulders which are most vulnerable to chafing. Look for seamless, well fitting garments and anti-chafing balms can help to prevent irritation.

When your clothing is uncomfortable it slows you down and can spoil the hike. Dressing correctly aids mobility. Avoid clothing that is uncomfortable, too heavy or too bulky. Instead opt for lightweight, easily packable clothing to reduce unnecessary weight both on your body and in your backpack for a more enjoyable hiking adventure.

Help your feet to step out in comfort and style

It’s not just clothing that needs to fit well, what you wear on your feet is a crucial aspect of any successful hike. Feet can easily be another pain point; blisters are frequently a challenge from ill-fitting socks and boots. Ill-fitting footwear create fiction, incorrect socks and the wrong footwear material can lead to moisture retention causing unwelcome blisters. Selecting moisture wicking socks and footwear that is worn-in you’re helping your foot comfort. Tip: If you are prone to blisters, consider using blister prevention tape.

Drop by an Icewear store for more hiking clothing tips to keep you comfortable whatever the challenges of your chosen trail.