How to dress up for the hike: Fashion versus comfort

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There's more to mountain climbing than just the right gear and equipment. You have to dress the part, too! Choosing the appropriate attire is essential for a fun and comfortable hike. Here are quick guidelines on what to wear to a climb:

Footwear

The proper footwear is very important to avoid slipping, tripping, or blisters. Regular sneakers or rubber shoes may be acceptable but a good pair of hiking boots is the better choice. There are all kinds of hiking boots used for specific terrain or weather. Buy one that you feel comfortable walking distances in. And don't forget to wear hiking-specific socks to avoid getting blisters.

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Layers (shirts and jackets)

Always keep in mind the environment and weather of your hiking trail. Is it rainy? Is it dry? Or is it so cold you need to wear layers to keep from freezing? It's also important to consider the fabric of your shirt or jacket and if it fits your needs. Nylon is a good insulator and it's also lightweight, which is perfect for absorbing sweat and keeping your upper body dry. Use cotton shirts or jackets when you're hiking in warm or dry areas because they allow air circulation and soak up sweat.

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Pants/shorts

Jeans are definitely good for doing house chores or going out for groceries but they limit movement so they can't be worn on a daylong hike. You can opt for pants or shorts with the same fabrics mentioned above. Choosing between shorts and pants is another matter entirely. For warm weather trails, shorts are the way to go, but for cold, windy or rainy areas it's best to wear long, comfortable pants.

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Thomas Robert Faw is a real estate developer with a penchant for hiking. Like this Facebook page for more articles on the perfect hiking spots and other hiking essentials.

Appalachian, Cascade and Mt. Tammany: Three of the best hiking spots in the U.S.

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Hiking frees my soul. When I go hiking, no matter the difficulty of the trail, there is always something thrilling about being out in the wild with nothing but me, my mates, and my backpack.

However, what truly inspires me to hike is the destination. When I travel to snowcapped peaks, rough cliffs, and pristine forests, the immensity and magnificence of the place remind me how beautiful life is.

So here, in this post, I want to share my three personal picks of the best hiking spots in the country:

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Appalachian trail: Going through fourteen states along the crests and valleys of the Appalachian mountain range, nothing beats Appalachian trail when it comes to hardcore adventure. The past month’s white winter, solid ice, and freezing temperatures, gave me an intense appreciation for the place. It is the best trail for those who want to reconnect with nature and to experience a simpler life.

Cascade Mountain: Ranked among USA Today’s “Top 20 Trails Across the U.S.,” Cascade Mountain is a great choice for beginners. I enjoy visiting the place, especially when accompanied by my wife and my ten-year-old son, Jaden. It’s a perfect alternative for those who prefer visiting mountains with more greens and waterfalls.

Mt. Tammany: This particular destination is one among the best options for hikers who love spectacular views and diverse trail options. Its distance, which is listed at 1.5 miles, is pretty manageable for anyone who is planning a short escape out of the hustle and bustle of the city.

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Hiking has taught me a great deal about happy living. Like a person’s existence, every trail has its own beauty. It’s definitely something worth experiencing for people who want to see the world from a different perspective.

Thomas Faw is a real estate developer and an occasional hiker based in Greensboro, North Carolina. Like thisFacebook Page to learn more about his hiking adventures.