Summer expeditions to Orlické and Bystrzyckie Mountains require thoughtful preparation. Unlike spring and autumn in summer, the problem is not so much coolness, but overheating and dehydration. In addition, the weather can be unpredictable — the sun can suddenly disappear behind thick fog, and the wind accelerates in a few minutes. Therefore, it is worth thinking well about how to dress in the mountains before going on the trail. The right outfit is not only comfort, but above all protection against extreme conditions that may arise on the route.
What to wear in the mountains in summer? Layered clothing always works best — it allows you to quickly react to changing weather conditions without having to change completely. A T-shirt made of technical material — e.g. polyester or merino wool — that wicks moisture away and does not absorb odors is enough to start. On top of it, put on a thin fleece sweatshirt or softshell that gives warmth and protects against the wind. When there is rain or a stronger wind, a light jacket with a membrane will come in handy - waterproof but breathable.
Clothes in the mountains in summer must first of all be functional. Trekking pants with detachable legs allow you to easily switch from long legs to short shorts, which works great in valleys and on more exposed routes. If you are planning stops or a longer rest — throw a spare T-shirt and a thin sweatshirt into your backpack. So you will avoid the feeling of coolness after stopping in sweaty clothes.
What clothes in the mountains in summer to choose for children? In their case, it is worth always having a light cape, fleece and baseball cap in your backpack. Children cool down and overheat faster, so they should be able to easily remove or put on an extra layer. Also remember that clothes in the mountains in summer do not have to be expensive - the main thing is that they are quick-drying, light and do not restrict movement. Avoid cotton — it soaks quickly with sweat and dries for a long time, which can lead to cooling.
The base set for a day hike should include: a technical T-shirt, a light sweatshirt, a rain jacket, trousers with detachable legs and a baseball cap. A good addition will also be a buff sling, which can be put on the neck, head or hand depending on your needs.
Read also: How to dress in the mountains in winter? Orlické and Bystrzyckie Mountains
Before you decide how to dress in the mountains, it is worth starting from the basics - that is, with shoes. The choice of shoes depends on the planned route, surpasses and terrain conditions. For short, easy sections — like walking loops in the Bystrzyckie Mountains leading through wide, paved forest roads — sports shoes with a solid sole can be enough. Low trekking boots will also work if the route does not run through rocky or rocky sections.
However, in the case of more demanding trails — e.g. the approach to Orlica, the passage towards Zieleniec or the border section through Czarna Góra — it is worth betting on higher, light trekking boots with ankle stiffener. They will secure the ankle joint on irregularities and help avoid sprains. What shoes in the mountains in summer are worth having? Preferably those with a breathable membrane (such as Gore-Tex or Texapore), which will protect the foot from outside moisture and allow sweat to drain away.
Pay attention to the interior material — it is best that it is a quick-drying mesh. The upper should be resistant to abrasion and easy to clean. Remember that whichever shoes you choose in the summer, it is necessary to diverge them beforehand — do not take new shoes straight from the store for the first getaway. The risk of rubbing and blisters is then very high. It is also worth choosing the right socks — preferably from merino wool or synthetic trekking wool, which prevent abrasions and drain moisture well.
If you still have doubts about what clothes in the mountains to wear in summer, and especially how to choose shoes for a particular route, be guided by the difficulty level and length of the trail. Much depends on your fitness and experience — the less predictable the route, the more important the proven pieces of equipment.
Check also: Orlickie Mountains — the most interesting trails and attractions for 1 day
In the mountains in summer, the sun can be as dangerous as rain. What about the head in the mountains in summer? A baseball cap, buff or wide-brimmed hat will be ideal. Skin and eyes need protection — bring sunglasses with sunglasses and high factor UV cream. For each trip, take a thin windproof jacket. Regardless of how you dress, the wind can surprise you at the least expected moment. And if you still have doubts about how to dress in the mountains, remember that in the mountains it is always better to have a layer too much than one too little.
What to take to the mountains in the summer when the outfit is ready? Definitely a backpack with a capacity of approx. 20-25 liters. Pack water, provisions, a map, a powerbank, a small first aid kit and a spare T-shirt inside. It's also good to have a headlamp and a thin cape. Remember that what you should take on a trip to the mountains in summer includes everything that will keep you safe and comfortable in case of a change in the weather or an unexpected stop. Light snacks, electrolytes and wet wipes are also worth having on hand.
If you are planning an expedition to the Orlickie Mountains or Bystrzyckie Mountains, it will be a good idea to stay in a place from where you will quickly reach the trail. Resort Szarotka is an ideal base: you can relax here, eat deliciously and relax in the SPA. It is a good place for both people planning all-day trips and families with children. If you are interested in free rooms in Zieleniec, we cordially invite you.