hiking scarf

Hiking Scarf⁚ A Guide to Choosing the Right One

I’m an avid hiker, and I’ve learned the hard way that a good hiking scarf is essential. It can protect you from the sun, wind, and cold, and it can also be used as a makeshift towel or headband. When choosing a hiking scarf, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind⁚

Determine Your Needs

Before you start shopping for a hiking scarf, take some time to think about how you’ll be using it. If you’re planning on doing a lot of hiking in cold weather, you’ll want a scarf that’s made from a warm material like wool or fleece. If you’re more concerned about sun protection, you’ll want a scarf that’s made from a lightweight, breathable fabric like cotton or linen.

You’ll also want to consider the size and shape of the scarf. If you’re planning on using it as a neck warmer, you’ll want a scarf that’s long enough to wrap around your neck twice. If you’re planning on using it as a headband or face covering, you’ll want a scarf that’s smaller and more lightweight.

Finally, think about any additional features that you might want in a hiking scarf. Some scarves come with built-in pockets or zippers, which can be handy for storing small items like keys or money. Others come with reflective strips, which can help to keep you visible in low-light conditions.

Once you’ve considered your needs, you can start shopping for a hiking scarf that’s right for you. Here are a few of my favorite brands⁚

• Buff⁚ Buff makes a variety of high-quality hiking scarves that are made from a variety of materials, including merino wool, fleece, and cotton. Their scarves are also very versatile and can be worn in a variety of ways.
• Smartwool⁚ Smartwool is another great option for hiking scarves. Their scarves are made from merino wool, which is naturally warm, breathable, and moisture-wicking.
• REI⁚ REI sells a variety of hiking scarves from different brands, including Buff and Smartwool. They also have a great selection of scarves that are made from recycled materials.

No matter what your needs are, you’re sure to find a hiking scarf that’s perfect for you. Just take some time to think about how you’ll be using it and what features are important to you.

Choose the Right Material

The material of your hiking scarf is important for both comfort and performance. Here are a few of the most common materials used in hiking scarves⁚

• Merino wool⁚ Merino wool is a natural fiber that is known for its warmth, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties. It is also very soft and comfortable to wear against the skin.
• Fleece⁚ Fleece is a synthetic material that is also warm, breathable, and moisture-wicking. It is also very lightweight and packable, making it a good choice for hikers who are looking to save space and weight.
• Cotton⁚ Cotton is a natural fiber that is soft, breathable, and absorbent. However, it is not as warm or moisture-wicking as merino wool or fleece. Cotton scarves are best suited for hiking in warm weather.
• Nylon⁚ Nylon is a synthetic material that is strong, durable, and water-resistant. It is also very lightweight and packable. Nylon scarves are a good choice for hikers who are looking for a scarf that will protect them from the elements.

I personally prefer merino wool hiking scarves because they are warm, breathable, and comfortable to wear. I have a merino wool scarf from Buff that I’ve been using for years and it’s still going strong.

Ultimately, the best material for your hiking scarf depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the climate you’ll be hiking in, the activities you’ll be doing, and your personal comfort level.

Consider the Size and Shape

The size and shape of your hiking scarf is also important to consider. Here are a few things to keep in mind⁚

• Length⁚ The length of your scarf will determine how you can wear it. A shorter scarf can be worn around your neck or head, while a longer scarf can be worn as a shawl or wrap.
• Width⁚ The width of your scarf will determine how much coverage it provides. A wider scarf will provide more coverage from the sun and wind, while a narrower scarf will be more lightweight and packable.
• Shape⁚ Hiking scarves come in a variety of shapes, including rectangular, square, and triangular. The shape of your scarf will determine how you can wear it and how much coverage it provides.

I personally prefer rectangular hiking scarves because they are versatile and can be worn in a variety of ways. I have a rectangular scarf from REI that I can wear around my neck, head, or shoulders.

Ultimately, the best size and shape for your hiking scarf depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider how you plan to wear your scarf and what level of coverage you need.

Here are a few tips for choosing the right size and shape for your hiking scarf⁚

• If you plan to wear your scarf around your neck, choose a scarf that is at least 24 inches long.
• If you plan to wear your scarf as a shawl or wrap, choose a scarf that is at least 60 inches long.
• If you want a scarf that provides maximum coverage, choose a scarf that is wide and rectangular.
• If you want a scarf that is lightweight and packable, choose a scarf that is narrow and triangular.

Look for Additional Features

In addition to the basic features, there are a few additional features that you may want to consider when choosing a hiking scarf⁚

• Pockets⁚ Some hiking scarves have built-in pockets, which can be convenient for storing small items like lip balm, sunscreen, or a whistle.
• Reflective trim⁚ If you plan to hike in low-light conditions, choose a scarf with reflective trim to help you stay visible to other hikers and motorists.
• UPF protection⁚ If you plan to hike in sunny conditions, choose a scarf with UPF protection to help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
• Moisture-wicking fabric⁚ If you plan to hike in humid or wet conditions, choose a scarf made from moisture-wicking fabric to help keep you dry and comfortable.

I personally prefer hiking scarves with pockets because they are convenient for storing small items. I have a scarf from The North Face that has two zippered pockets, which I use to store my lip balm, sunscreen, and whistle.

Ultimately, the best way to choose a hiking scarf is to consider your individual needs and preferences. Think about how you plan to use your scarf and what features are important to you.

Here are a few tips for choosing additional features for your hiking scarf⁚

• If you often hike in low-light conditions, choose a scarf with reflective trim.
• If you often hike in sunny conditions, choose a scarf with UPF protection.
• If you often hike in humid or wet conditions, choose a scarf made from moisture-wicking fabric.
• If you want a scarf that can store small items, choose a scarf with pockets.