When planning a hike, the right gear is just as important as the route. The best hiking clothes should protect you from the elements, move with your body, and adapt to changing weather. At Purple Mountain Observatory, we design technical outdoor clothing that blends performance with everyday wearability. Here’s our guide to choosing the right layers for your next adventure, featuring some of our key pieces.

Waterproof Shells – Your First Line of Defence

No matter the season, a waterproof jacket is essential. Sudden downpours, heavy winds, or damp conditions can turn quickly, so investing in a reliable shell ensures you stay dry and comfortable.

Anvil Shell – A 3-layer waterproof shell built to take on unpredictable conditions. With fully taped seams, a storm-ready hood, and underarm ventilation, the Anvil Shell offers complete protection without compromising breathability. Its lightweight construction means it can be packed down when skies clear.

3L Hardshell – For tougher environments, the 3L Hardshell offers uncompromising durability. Its reinforced panels and advanced waterproofing make it one of the best hiking jackets for demanding terrain. Whether on exposed ridges or multi-day treks, it keeps you covered.

Lightweight Hiking Jackets for Active Days

Not every trail calls for a heavy-duty coat. When speed and mobility are key, a lightweight hiking jacket gives you agility with just the right amount of protection.

Stinger Jacket – Our lightest jacket to date, designed for fast-moving hikes and variable conditions. Wind-resistant, water-repellent, and highly packable, the Stinger balances performance with simplicity. Details like taped seams, reflective branding, and a built-in ventilation system make it an essential lightweight layer.

Layering – Stay Comfortable in Every Condition

Good hiking clothes work together. Build your system with:

• Base layers – wick away sweat and keep you dry.
• Insulating mid-layers – fleece or lightweight gilets for warmth.
• Shell layers – waterproof and windproof jackets for protection.

Our outerwear is engineered to slot into this system seamlessly, helping you adapt from warm ascents to cold, exposed peaks.

What to Look for in Hiking Clothes

When investing in hiking gear, focus on features that keep you comfortable and prepared:

• Waterproofing & Weather Resistance – 3L fabrics, taped seams, and DWR coatings.
• Breathability – lightweight fabrics that manage heat and moisture.
• Mobility – articulated cuts and stretch panels to keep you moving.
• Packability – jackets that compress easily into your pack.
• Practical Features – secure pockets, reflective details, and ventilation systems.

Final Word

The best hiking clothes aren’t about ticking boxes — they’re about finding gear that works with you, wherever the trail takes you. From the rugged Anvil Shell, to the all-terrain 3L Hardshell, to the featherweight Stinger Jacket, Purple Mountain Observatory equips you for every journey.

Explore the full collection at purplemountainobservatory.co.uk.

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