Hiking involves varying, sometimes sustained effort, alternating between ascents, descents, breaks, windy stretches and damp terrain. Your body heats up on the climb, then cools down very quickly when you stop, especially if moisture has not been properly wicked away. Your clothing needs to provide continuous temperature regulation while remaining durable, comfortable and versatile.
1. The specific demands of hiking
The weather can change quickly, even on a straightforward route. You therefore need a layering system that lets you adapt your protection without adding weight to your pack. Breathability, moisture management and abrasion resistance are essential.
2. The base layer
RWS-certified merino wool is ideal for hiking thanks to its ability to regulate temperature and limit odours. For long distances: Mefonna (lightweight 100% merino wool) for warm days or a fast pace; Biafo for year-round use; Shirwali for cooler temperatures or early starts.
3. The mid layer
The Kokanee fleece provides essential warmth during breaks and at colder, higher altitudes. It remains breathable on the climb and packs down easily into your backpack.
4. The outer layer
A lightweight wind-breaker such as SHANDAR (men / women) is perfect for exposed stretches and ridgelines. In rain or uncertain weather, an AYAQ hardshell (LONAK (men / women) or LONAK-XT (men / women)) provides complete protection thanks to its recyclable Sympatex membrane (52,000 mm hydrostatic head), which is highly effective at handling changes in moisture levels inside the garment.
5. Trousers
The RIMO (men / women) softshell trousers offer breathability, freedom of movement and abrasion resistance, making them ideal for most hikes. For wet terrain or unsettled conditions, the NUNATAK (men / women) hardshell trousers ensure complete protection.
6. AYAQ expertise
Vincent Defrasne recommends adjusting your layers before each change of pace to prevent moisture build-up inside your clothing. Mike Horn, who is well accustomed to long expeditions, stresses the importance of durable clothing in real-world conditions, particularly when facing alternating damp and windy conditions and repeated abrasion.
Conclusion
Hiking calls for a versatile, breathable and protective layering system: an RWS merino base layer, a breathable fleece, a wind-breaker or hardshell depending on the weather, and technical trousers suited to the terrain. The AYAQ range delivers comfort, protection and durability to keep you hiking for longer, whatever the conditions.
