Flying Mountain Summit Acadia

Get Ready To Go Hiking In A Dress

Affiliate Disclosure
Affiliate Disclosure

Have you ever wondered about hiking in a dress? Well, I did and I tried it!

Hiking in a dress? I know what you’re thinking. That was my first thought too before I tried it myself! After a few adventures, I’m here to tell you that hiking in a dress is actually pretty fun and really satisfying. So many women are hesitant to try this, but once they do they just fall in love with it!

I know what you are thinking, “Jodi, you cannot seriously wear a dress hiking!” Well, no you would not want to just open your closet and pick out your favorite sun dress to wear hiking. There is a relatively new and emerging line of dresses specifically made for hiking! They are made from the same fabrics as your favorite hiking clothes so they move with you and help wick away moisture.

I recently had an incredible adventure in Acadia National Park that included Alex and I going on a 6 mile hike, all while I was wearing a dress. For most of the hike I felt empowered and determined and when I encountered some difficult terrain my dress moved right along with me! It was still such an amazing experience that I’ll never forget.

So if you’re curious about hiking in a dress, don’t be intimidated or scared by it. Give it a try! I promise it will be worth it.

My Top Picks: 2023 Dresses You Need To Go Hiking In

#1 Top Budget Pick
DSG Women's Strappy Dress
DSG Women’s Strappy Dress

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

DSG Women’s Strappy Dress

✅ Up To Size 3X

✅ Moisture Wicking Fabric

✅ Comes With Removable Shorts

#1 Top Multi Function
Athleta Expedition Dress
Athleta Expedition Dress

Athleta Expedition Hiking Dress

✅ Size From 00 To 26

✅ Quick Drying Fabric

✅ Comes With Built-In Shorts

#1 Longer Length
Columbia Chill River Printed Dress
Columbia Chill River Printed Dress

Columbia Chill River Dress

✅ Size Up To 3X

✅ Moisture Wicking Fabric

✅ Multiple Color Options

Best Hiking Dresses

DSG Strappy Dress
DSG Strappy Dress

1. Top Budget Pick: DSG Women’s Strappy Dress

⭐️ RATING: #/5 Stars | ✅ Buy it here!

The DSG Women’s strappy hiking dress is my top pick and a great choice for beginner hikers. It features adjustable spaghetti straps to provide a comfortable fit and the internal shelf bra, with removable cups, helps to keep you supported while you explore. Plus, this dress comes equipped with built-in & removable shorts so that you can customize your coverage based on the terrain. The side pockets in the shorts give extra convenience and storage while on the trail. Also, the moisture wicking fabric keeps you dry and feeling fresh no matter how far you’ve gone, and the UV protection shields you from the sun. All of these features make it an incredibly comfortable piece of apparel to wear while out exploring the great outdoors!

This is the perfect dress if you want an inexpensive way to try hiking in a dress. The only downside to this dress for me was that the built-in shorts for it would ride up on my legs. However, because they were removable I could easily take the built-in shorts off and wear something else under the dress.

Because this dress came with a built-in shelf bra I decided to try it without my trusty sports bra. I did bring my sports bra with me just in case! I was really shocked that built-in bra was enough coverage for me. While I would probably not go for a run without a sports bra, you know, because of my body type, but it worked great on a hike!

The Good And Bad

The DSG Women’s Strappy Hiking Dress is a fantastic dress for women who want to try hiking in a dress! Here are some of the pros:
1. The dress is made from a lightweight breathable fabric that provides breathability and wicks away moisture, so you stay cool and comfortable while on a hiking trail in hot weather.
2. The dress is designed with built-in UPF 50+ sun protection, which shields your skin from UV rays.
3. It has an adjustable shoulder straps that stay where you put them!

Like all good things, there is a downside. While I wanted to find the absolute perfect hiking dress, this was as close as I could get.
1. DSG Women’s Strappy Hiking Dress is not suitable for cold temperatures. The fabric is not designed for cold weather and might leave you feeling chilly on cooler days.
2. The shorts that came with it ride up on your legs. The bonus was that I could remove them and wear something else.
3. It does not have any pockets or storage compartments on the dress itself where you can keep items. The two pockets are located in the removable shorts.
4. The dress could be quite short for some and might be too revealing for users who prefer more coverage when hiking.

My Overall Thoughts On Hiking In This Dress

I have to admit that I was skeptical about hiking in a dress, but after thinking about it, it wasn’t going to be a whole lot different than wearing my hiking skirt and tank top on the trail. When I saw this dress at the store I grabbed it on a whim to wear on my next hike. I am all about having the right gear when it comes to hiking and this dress is now on that list of hiking outfits! It doesn’t matter if you are taking short hikes or long hikes, this dress if a great option. Also, you can wear it for other outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing or just running your everyday errands. You know I like multi functional!

Athleta Expedition Dress
Athleta Expedition Dress

1. Top Pick For Multi Function: Athleta Expedition Hiking Dress

⭐️ RATING: #/5 Stars | ✅ Buy it here!

The Athleta Expedition Hiking Dress is an absolute game-changer and one of the best hiking dresses for female hikers. Its exceptional comfort and convenience make it a must-have item for any outdoor adventure.

Featuring a sturdy front zipper, this dress not only offers quick and easy access, but also adds a touch of style to your trail escapades. The adjustable waist ensures a perfect fit, catering to every body type, while the built-in shorts provide extra coverage and protection against the elements.

But that’s not all, this amazing dress also boasts two zippered side pockets. With these pockets, you can securely store small essentials such as keys or your cell phone, ensuring that you’re always ready for any situation while exploring the great outdoors.

With all these incredible features packed into one versatile piece of clothing, the Athleta Expedition Hiking Dress is an absolute necessity for every female hiker who seeks comfort, convenience, and style on their hiking journeys. Get ready to elevate your hiking experience with this exceptional dress.

The Good And Bad

Athleta’s Expedition Dress is a versatile and stylish wardrobe piece perfect for hikes and everyday wear. Here are some of the pros of this dress:
1. Constructed using lightweight fabric, as well as breathable fabric that won’t weigh you down or cause discomfort during hikes or daily activities.
2. The dress has an adjustable drawstring waist to ensure the perfect fit every time.
3. Features zippered side pockets for secure storage of small items while on the go.
4. Made with UPF 50+ sun protection which is great for outdoor adventures!

Athleta Expedition Dress is a popular choice when it comes to outdoor clothing, but there are some downsides to consider. Here are a few of the cons associated with this dress:
1. The dress can be quite pricey for those on a budget.
2. It’s not suitable for cold temperatures as it doesn’t offer much insulation.
3. The zippered front might not be ideal for some people.
4. It isn’t available in many colors which may limit styling options.

My Opinion On The Expedition Hiking Dress

I really like the Athleta brand so when it came time to try dresses for hiking in I had high hopes for the Athleta Expedition Dress. It did not disappoint me! I was blown away by its versatility. It’s so soft and light, but still durable enough to last through even the toughest hiking trails. I love the adjustable waist feature, too, as it lets me easily customize the fit for whatever activity I’m doing. From work to the outdoors, this dress has me covered.

The fabric is strong yet breathable, which has been great for keeping me cool during my sweaty hike in hot weather. It’s also been an amazing addition to my office job wardrobe. I can dress it up by adding a sweater and heels or down depending on the occasion. When I was searching for a hiking dress, it was important for me to find ones that I would be able to wear in my everyday life. I am all about multi-functional and my hiking outfit is no exception to that!

Embark on your hiking journey with the Athleta Expedition Dress, the ultimate dress for beginners! With its multi-functional features, getting ready for the trail has never been easier. No matter what exciting adventure awaits, the Athleta Expedition Dress has got you covered in style.

Check Prices and Availability!

Columbia Women's Chill River Stripe Dress
Columbia Women’s Chill River Stripe Dress

1. Top Pick Longer Length Hiking Dress: Columbia Chill River Printed Dress

⭐️ RATING: #/5 Stars | ✅ Buy it here!

Introducing the Columbia Chill River Printed Dress, the ultimate choice for female hikers seeking a blend of style and functionality on their outdoor adventures. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this versatile dress is available in sizes ranging from XS to 3X, ensuring a perfect fit for every body shape and size.
Boasting a flattering 38″ length that falls just above the knee, this dress offers optimal coverage without sacrificing freedom of movement. Its UPF 50 rating provides superior protection against harmful sun rays, while the moisture-wicking fabric made of synthetic materials ensures you stay dry and comfortable even during the most challenging hikes.

Equipped with two convenient side pockets, you can easily stash essential items like snacks, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your adventure. Whether you prefer a solid color or a vibrant print, you’ll find a design that perfectly matches your style and preferences. Embrace the perfect fusion of fashion and functionality with the Columbia Chill River Printed Hiking Dress. Get ready to conquer new trails in style!

The Good And Bad

The Columbia Chill River Printed Dress is the perfect blend of style and functionality with its lightweight, wrinkle-resistant and quick-drying materials. Here are a few of the pros for this dress:

1. Easy to slip on: No matter how busy you’re feeling, just throw the dress on over your head and off you go.
2. Stylish: The vivid allover print makes it easy to pair with different fashion combinations, allowing you to stand out from the crowd.
3. Durability: The durable fabric can handle wear and tear, so you don’t need to worry about replacing it anytime soon.
4. Breathable: With breathable material and sweat-wicking technology, it will keep you cool in even the hottest climates.

Cons of the Columbia Chill River Printed Dress:
1. No built-in shorts: Because this technically is not a hiking dress, though made with the same fabric as a hiking dress, it does not come with built-in shorts.
2. Fit: The fabric under the arms can be a little lose and gape some.
3. No zippered pockets: while this dress has pockets for storing small items, they are not zippered so you risk losing whatever you put in them.

My Final Thoughts On Hiking In This Dress

When I purchased the Columbia Chill River Printed Dress I had not planned to hike in it. It is just a sun dress according to info I had read on it, but when it arrived I realized it was the same fabric as a lot of my hiking clothes so I decided to try it out on a hike. I was so impressed with how comfortable and lightweight it felt. The fabric was soft and breathable, allowing me to move freely without feeling sweaty and hot. It also had UPF 50 protection which was great for shielding me from the sun’s harmful rays.

I loved that there were several color options to choose from, including a bright patterned print that really set off my outdoor look. Most of all, I really appreciated that the length was just right-not too short or long-so I could wear it confidently even when seated on a rock or log while taking in my surroundings. All in all, it’s been an excellent experience hiking in this dress!

If you are looking for slightly longer length dress then look for further! One of my big concerns with hiking in a dress was the length of them. I was worried about them being too short and my bum hanging out! Even though this dress does not have built-in shorts, because if the longer length I was not concerned about things hanging out that shouldn’t be!

Check Prices and Availability!

Go Hiking In A Dress

Hiking in a dress can be a fantastic experience for female hikers. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, putting on a dress and heading for the trails can give you an opportunity to explore nature while feeling confident and strong. But, for those who want to try something new, hiking in a dress can be one of the most enjoyable outdoor activities. It also enables more freedom of movement than other types of clothing as it is lightweight and easily adjustable. Additionally, this type of attire is often made from quick-drying fabrics that are comfortable to wear in most weather conditions. So if you’ve ever been curious about trying out hiking in a dress, why not give it a go on your next hike!

Types Of Hikes To Wear A Dress On

When it comes to wearing a hiking dress on the trail, there are no hard and fast rules. Pretty much any type of hike can be done in a hiking dress. Short day hikes, long distances, overnight backpacking trips, multi-day trekking adventures, the options are endless. They usually offer plenty of pockets for snacks and small essentials, and they keep you cool in warm weather. Plus, some styles even come with built-in sun protection. So when it comes to deciding which types of hikes you can wear a hiking dress on, the real answer is: all of them!

Why You Wear A Dress Hiking

Going out on a hike in a dress is not something you’ll see many people doing. But for me, it’s the best way to feel both comfortable and stylish at the same time. Dresses are perfect for hiking because they are lightweight and flexible, allowing you to move freely without feeling constrained or restricted. They don’t require any extra layering or accessories so they’re easy to just grab-and-go! With all these reasons and more, I truly believe that wearing a dress when I go hiking is the best option for me!

Final Thoughts: Head Out On Your Next Hike In A Fashionable Hiking Outfit

At the end of the day, female hikers can still enjoy their time outdoors without compromising on their style, by confidently wearing a comfortable and stylish dress that allows for freedom of movement while hiking through picturesque trails and breathtaking landscapes.

So ladies, if you’re looking for an empowering way to express yourself on your next hike, try wearing a dress! And don’t forget to check out our other post “Best Sports Bra For Hiking That Offers Max Support” for my top picks of what to wear under your hiking dress!

Similar Posts