We don't get a lot of summer over here in the UK, so when the sun finally decides to show it's face, it's time to make the most of it. And what better than getting out in nature and going on a hike? We've created this guide to help you plan how to layer up your summer walking outfits.

Hiking outfits are all about layering, and ensuring that you're protected from all the elements. But that is a little bit different in the summer, your layers don't need to be as heavy or thick, but you need to be more aware and mindful of the fabric and material your clothing is made of.

Technically, what would normally be your base layer could be your only layer, weather depending. Look for lightweight, sweat wicking t-shirts to wear as your base layer. Try and avoid t-shirts made of cotton as cotton retains moisture, and if you are getting a sweat on, cotton fabric will hold onto the sweat and can cause skin rubbing and irritation.

When it comes to your mid and outer layers, you can be a bit more flexible than in other seasons. Normally we would suggest a fleece or mid layer then a waterproof coat or jacket as an outer layer. But in the summer when the temperatures are going to be higher anyway, you don't want too many thick layers as you don't want to overheat or have to carry unnecessary weight in your backpack.

Realistically you could forgo a fleece and take a stretch midlayer as your final layer if you're sure that the weather isn't going to turn. But since we live in the UK and we're never 100% it won't rain, the safer choice would be a lightweight walking jacket. Our hiking jackets have been created with breathable, waterproof fabric that is light, stretchy and comfortable to adventure in.

When it comes to what to wear on your legs, you have a few options - hiking trousers, hiking shorts and for women, hiking leggings and skorts.

There are multiple factors to take into account when it comes to choosing your hiking bottoms. What is the weather going to be like, is there a possibility you could get sunburnt? Are you going to be walking through areas that have high growth and you could scratched, prickled or injured? All these things need to be taken into consideration when planning what to wear as your summer hiking bottoms.

When looking for summer hike clothing, the key feature to look for is clothing that that has UV protection also known as UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor). This factor looks at how much UV radiation can actually penetrate the fabric and reach the skin. UPF 50+ is the highest rating, it blocks around 98% of the rays from passing through. UPF 30 - 49 is classed as good, whereas 50+ is classed as excellent. Anything below UPF 30 doesn't have an adequate level of protection. You can find out more about UPF fabrics in our UPF blog here.

Summer is all about getting out, finding new hiking routes and enjoying the good weather. Pair your walking outfit with a good pair of walking shoes, some breathable socks and plenty of fluids for hydration and you have everything you could need for a successful hike!

You can shop our full Mountain range here.

You can shop our Torrek The Mountain Series collection here. This collection is our most technical walking clothing yet!