The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Clothing

Selecting the right outdoor clothing is essential for maintaining comfort and performance in variable conditions. Planning ahead will help you select the right gear for your needs. This starts with thinking through the activities you have planned and the conditions you are likely to encounter.

This guide will explore the key items of clothing for the outdoors, helping you choose the right equipment for your specific requirements.

What is Outdoor Clothing?

Outdoor clothing is designed to keep you warm, dry and active in a range of weather conditions. Everything you wear should be lightweight and flexible so that your movement is not hindered. Use layers so that you can adapt to changes in temperature.

Choosing the right outdoor gear begins by thinking through the activities you have planned and the weather you expect to encounter. Clothing should be selected in combinations that will work well together. The main categories of clothing you need to consider are:

• Footwear - including shoes and socks

• Underwear - including thermal layers for cold conditions

• Trousers/shorts

• Upper body layers - including base layer, mid layer and outer shell

• Additional accessories - such as gloves, hat, sunglasses and gaiters

• Backpack - for carrying your clothing

Footwear

Well-fitting walking boots or shoes will improve traction and stability on uneven terrain. Look for minimal movement of your foot inside the boot to avoid blisters. High-ankle boots provide more ankle support for scrambling and difficult surfaces. Low cut walking shoes are more lightweight and offer more flexibility. To find the right footwear for your needs, try The North Face footwear finder. 

Look for socks that are comfortable, durable, and made from quick-drying fabrics.

Related: What to look for in walking boots

Legwear

Your choice of trousers, shorts or leggings will depend on the temperature you expect to encounter. Choose a pair of trousers or shorts that are lightweight, breathable and allow your legs to move freely. Leggings can be a comfortable option for active use and can include compression to reduce muscle fatigue. Thermal leggings can be worn underneath trousers in very cold conditions.

Related: What are the best leggings for hiking?

Layering

Effective outdoor clothes will combine together as layers. Layering your clothing increases versatility as the layers can be added or removed when weather conditions change. Layers can be broken down into three main categories:

• Base layer

• Mid-layer

• Outer shell

The layer closest to the body is your base layer. Look for t-shirts or long sleeves that are lightweight, thin and allow easy movement. Moisture-wicking fabrics are designed to keep you dry when you start to sweat. Avoid cotton, which will absorb perspiration, becoming heavy and uncomfortable.

Mid-layers are worn on top of the base layer, trapping air to provide insulation. Materials such as fleece and merino wool will keep you warm without sacrificing breathability. A lightweight mid-layer will be easy to store in your bag and easy to access in cold weather.

The outer layer or shell acts as a windproof and water-resistant barrier. The aim of the outer layer is to provide protection from the elements in a garment that can be quickly added on top of other clothing. For extended trips in cold conditions, more layers may be required under your rain jacket.

Whether you're trail running, camping or alpine skiing, use The North Face layering system to help you choose the perfect combination of clothes.

Men's outdoor clothing 

Men's outdoor clothing should be versatile, durable and comfortable. Look for clothing that can be used for a range of activities and cope with variable conditions. Choosing high-quality fabrics will help you eliminate distractions and focus on performance.

The men's outdoor clothing range from The North Face is engineered for the modern-day explorer. Utilising the latest technology, to produce high-performance clothing, you'll find high-performance clothing for your next adventure.

As one of the world's most respected Alpinists, Herve Barmasse is constantly pushing the boundaries of possibility on the mountain face. Following a knee injury that ended his skiing career, Herve turned his attention to ascents. Embracing technical challenges, his most cherished achievement was the creation of a new route on the south face of the Matterhorn with his father, Marco. Herve never leaves without his Summit L3 Down Jacket. This groundbreaking insulated jacket retains its properties when wet, optimising performance in harsh conditions.

Women's outdoor clothing 

Women's outdoor clothing should provide protection from the elements and comfort for your activity. For the trail, the piste or the rock face, look for clothing that helps you perform at your peak. Think through your activities and expected weather conditions to help you plan an effective combination of activewear for your needs.

The North Face women's outdoor clothing range has you covered for everything from insulated jackets to thermal base layers, leggings and tights to walking boots and shoes. For active women, a sports bra is an essential piece of apparel to minimise discomfort and enhance performance and enjoyment.

Related: How to choose a sports bra

Brazilian Ultra Runner Fernanda Maciel can't live without her Women's Thermoball Eco Jacket - training, going out and even sleeping in the jacket! Combining her experience in environmental law and her passion for endurance running, she is a perfect partner for The North Face - pushing performance with a commitment to sustainability.

What is the best outdoor clothing brand? 

The best outdoor clothing should be reliable, durable and comfortable. Look for a brand that uses high-quality fabrics that won't let you down in tricky conditions. The North Face has over 50 years of experience equipping weekend warriors and elite athletes, constantly striving to push the limits of performance.

Established as a small mountaineering store in 1966, The North Face has established a long tradition of commitment to the mantra: Never Stop Exploring. The combination of passion and innovation has spread throughout the outdoor world, equipping climbers, hikers, trail runners and backpackers around the world.

Related: Our Story: Behind The Brand

The North Face is committed to developing high performance, ethical outdoor clothing. This encompasses the sourcing and recycling of sustainable materials, with a goal of 100% responsibly sourced fabrics by 2025. Alongside this is an effort to work with suppliers and retailers to reduce environmental impact and acceleration in sustainable packaging.

Related: The North Face Sustainability

Throughout our history, The North Face has been at the forefront of innovation and design. Our new technologies continue to push the boundaries of possibility for adventurers of all kinds.

From synthetic insulation to waterproof performance and energy converting shoes, new technology drives forward performance in every part of your gear.

The North Face THERMOBALL™ insulation recreates the insulating properties of down feathers by using small clusters of synthetic fibres. These clusters retain their shape when they become damp, continuing to provide warmth in all conditions. The Women’s Thermoball™ Eco Hooded Jacket is a great combination of technology and sustainability, made from 100% recycled materials. With zipped pockets and an attached hood, this warm coat packs down into its own pocket for easy storage.

FUTURELIGHT™ technology was engineered to deliver the most advanced breathable, waterproof performance clothing. An ultra-thin nanomembrane prevents water from passing through the pores while allowing air to flow for ventilation. The Men’s Apex Flex FUTURELIGHT™ Jacket is a three-layer coat that can keep you warm and dry in harsh conditions. Crafted with a soft, flexible finish for comfort, the adjustable hood and internal storm flap keep you prepared for anything the weather throws at you.

The North Face VECTIV™ technology uses a 3D plate and rocker midsole in the shoe to transform energy into forward momentum. The Men’s Flight Series Vectiv Shoes combine this cutting-edge technology with a rugged sole and a supportive, comfortable fit.

Where to buy outdoor clothing 

When you are looking to buy outdoor clothing, The North Face offers a range of in-store and online options. Online tools such as our jacket finder, footwear finder or layering guide help you to narrow down your search to the specific needs of your activities and interests.

The North Face online store offers delivery or in-store collection options, with customer reviews and comprehensive FAQs. With guides for everything from jacket care to tent selection, our aim is to help you make informed decisions about your clothing and equipment.

Outdoor clothing stores

Our outdoor clothing is available in The North Face stores, outlets and authorised retailers across the UK. Use the store locator to find your nearest option. Alternatively, a comprehensive virtual store experience allows you to speak to a member of The North Face team, providing all the tips you need for choosing outdoor gear. 

As you embark on your next adventure, planning your clothing selection will give you the confidence to maximise enjoyment and effectiveness. Head outside and start exploring!