Hiking Skirts

[Deleted member 67185]

The link below might be of interest for those thinking of hiking skirts (I am staying gender neutral, here )

I'm sure that this isn't a complete list, nor actually the best of the best; for instance the most talked about favorite on this Forum is AWOL. But, it may add to the knowledge base of what's available.

10 Best Hiking Skirts for Thru-hiking in 2024

We tested the BEST hiking skirts and the BEST hiking dresses on the market for 2024. Read to see how they performed, which is best for you, and get some GREAT buying advice. Purple Rain, Lightheart Gear, and more.

www.greenbelly.co

 

[alaskadiver]

I love my Purple Rain skirt. It’s all I wore on my Camino and will wear again in April. No leggings for me, though. Cute short skirt with nice sized pockets and a yoga waistband. I even have a rain skirt to wear over it. Which I only used once for a couple hours. Easier to just get wet since the skirt doesn’t absorb water much, and dries fast.

 

[Lucyk]

I got a Tilley skirt that i am pretty excited about. It's just below knee length, so longer than these. I'll report back on how well it works.

 

[NualaOC]

The link below might be of interest for those thinking of hiking skirts (I am staying gender neutral, here )
I'm sure that this isn't a complete list, nor actually the best of the best; for instance the most talked about favorite on this Forum is AWOL. But, it may add to the knowledge base of what's available.

10 Best Hiking Skirts for Thru-hiking in 2024

We tested the BEST hiking skirts and the BEST hiking dresses on the market for 2024. Read to see how they performed, which is best for you, and get some GREAT buying advice. Purple Rain, Lightheart Gear, and more.

www.greenbelly.co

Thanks Dave for sharing this. Another Purple Rain fan here!

 

[natefaith]

Thanks for sharing, Dave. The blurbs here are accessible and informative, and I'm definitely intrigued by Purple Rain now.

 

[Linda Fantillo]

No mention of a Macabi skirt? Love those things!

 

[alaskadiver]

Thanks for sharing, Dave. The blurbs here are accessible and informative, and I'm definitely intrigued by Purple Rain now.

The things I really like about Purple rain is that the skirt isn't frumpy looking. Depending on you height, it will be brushing your knees or just above them, very comfortable. I sat on the ground everyday and it never got dirty. Never. The rain just beads and fall off the skirt, so it never got soaked. The pockets are long enough to fit my leather covered passport in a Ziploc bag (when I took it out of my pack and left the pack sitting somewhere) and the other fits my iPhone X Max with Otterbox. I don't even feel them when I walk. Function and cuteness all in one package. Plus they are made in Oregon by a lady thru hiker who got tired of wearing hiking pants. Sizes are true to the chart, too.

 

[Deleted member 67185]

No mention of a Macabi skirt? Love those things!

The only thing I can think of is that they were looking at skirts under a pound. How much does the average Macabi skirt weigh?

 

[domigee]

The only thing I can think of is that they were looking at skirts under a pound. How much does the average Macabi skirt weigh?

Quite heavy, actually. Just under 300g. Still my favourite, though NOT fashionable nor flattering but oh so wonderful to walk in.
Note the kamikaze cyclist behind me, who suddenly appeared from nowhere!

 

[Deleted member 67185]

Quite heavy, actually. Just under 300g. Still my favourite, though NOT fashionable nor flattering but oh so wonderful to walk in.
Note the kamikaze cyclist behind me, who suddenly appeared from nowhere!
View attachment 52055

That's well under a pound at 10.5 ounces, so that doesn't explain it being left off the list.

 

[domigee]

That's well under a pound at 10.5 ounces, so that doesn't explain it being left off the list.

I think it’s because it doesn’t look cool
To be perfectly honest, I only bought one because I had to walk through mainland Turkey, maybe Lebanon etc and I wanted to look unconspicuous. Would never have thought of it otherwise!

 

[lissie45]

Quite heavy, actually. Just under 300g. Still my favourite, though NOT fashionable nor flattering but oh so wonderful to walk in.
Note the kamikaze cyclist behind me, who suddenly appeared from nowhere!
View attachment 52055

You can also get a knee length one which I've worn extensively when travelling . https://www.macabiskirt.com/macabi-knee-length-skirt

Probably not in the article because they don't pay a commission

The thing about Macabi is the pockets - the purple rain ones look OK _ but they don't appear to be secure? Macabi has a zipped interior pocket which (from experience) wlll hold 2 passports plus a wad of cash and you can sleep in it without worrying about. it Plus I could fit 2 phones in the other pockets. (MY partner got ill so I was sleeping at the hospital and carrying all his valuables as well as mine) Plus with that amount of weight you need to have a secure waist band (I had a belt plus there is a drawstring inside) - stretchy drop waist won't cut it.

The only debate I have with the caminio - is whether I'll wear the shorter one or the longer one - the longer one is excellent sun protection - the shorter one looks better

 

[forrestroze]

Calzadilla 2017 in my Purple Rain skirt! I can’t say enough about how well this skirt worked for me > big, secure pockets, yoga style waist band, and it made the frequent nature pee less awkward than my shorts did. I plan to bring two on my next Camino and skip the shorts altogether.

 

[natefaith]

The things I really like about Purple rain is that the skirt isn't frumpy looking. Depending on you height, it will be brushing your knees or just above them, very comfortable. I sat on the ground everyday and it never got dirty. Never. The rain just beads and fall off the skirt, so it never got soaked. The pockets are long enough to fit my leather covered passport in a Ziploc bag (when I took it out of my pack and left the pack sitting somewhere) and the other fits my iPhone X Max with Otterbox. I don't even feel them when I walk. Function and cuteness all in one package. Plus they are made in Oregon by a lady thru hiker who got tired of wearing hiking pants. Sizes are true to the chart, too.

I'd never heard of Purple Rain before yesterday and now I totally want one! These are all considerations I have when looking at gear. Thanks for the info.

 

[Leibniz]

Skirt-wearers...do you not worry about thigh chafing? I know I do! It’s the one thing that stops me from getting a hiking skirt (otherwise I’d be all over them like a rash - no pun intended)

 

[domigee]

You can also get a knee length one which I've worn extensively when travelling .

The whole point of wearing a macabi (for me) is that it is long! Protects my legs from the sun, insects and on difficult terrain from brambles and nettles. I wear shorts after walking

 

[lissie45]

Skirt-wearers...do you not worry about thigh chafing? I know I do! It’s the one thing that stops me from getting a hiking skirt (otherwise I’d be all over them like a rash - no pun intended)

No not really, as for any gear try it at home first. I used to get a bit of chaffing it hot climates, but deoderant helps, and since I lost some weight and toned my legs it’s no longer an issue.

 

[alaskadiver]

Skirt-wearers...do you not worry about thigh chafing? I know I do! It’s the one thing that stops me from getting a hiking skirt (otherwise I’d be all over them like a rash - no pun intended)

You can wear men's ExOfficio boxerbriefs (they don't make the women's version anymore). They come down to just above mid-thigh or so and are breathable, light, and dry fast.

 

[alaskadiver]

The whole point of wearing a macabi (for me) is that it is long! Protects my legs from the sun, insects and on difficult terrain from brambles and nettles. I wear shorts after walking

I get that. I personally never had a problem with insects or nettles. Sometimes my legs got little scratches, I didn't really care. Sun isn't a problem either, my legs get tanned and I use sun screen, I don't burn. I personally would overheat in a long skirt. But all those things you listed legitimate concerns for some people. All things to consider.

 

[alaskadiver]

My Teal Purple Rain skirt. Upon arriving in Santiago. Ignore the Storm Troopers sign. There was this crazy Star Wars convention or something when we got there.

 

[intrepidtraveler]

Thanks Dave for sharing this. Another Purple Rain fan here!

Love, love, love my Purple Rain hiking skirt.

 

[trecile]

Skirt-wearers...do you not worry about thigh chafing?

I usually walk in a dress, though I don't really have an issue with chafing, I wear a pair of lightweight running shorts underneath, mostly for modesty reasons when I have to sit on the ground in an unladylike position. I sleep in the shorts and a tank top.

 

[prairiegirl]

I have been hiking in a Macabi skirt for years. I love it. They come in 2 lengths, long and mid-length. The great pockets, (which give a huge sense of security as valuables can be hidden in zipped inner pockets) and adjustable waistband have been mentioned, but not yet the fact that the skirt can be shortened by means of tabs and snaps and also converted into "shorts" to accommodate temperature and terrain changes.. The fabric is easy care, and if it gets wet it dries very quickly. Very versatile.

 

[lruault]

Ditto on the Purple Rain skirt...can't say enough good things about it! And especially love that it comes from a little cottage industry. I wore mine every single day that I walked the CF with the exception of a few cool mornings. I have ordered a second one in a different color to take with me on the CP in May.

 

[bay hills hiker]

Skirt-wearers...do you not worry about thigh chafing? I know I do! It’s the one thing that stops me from getting a hiking skirt (otherwise I’d be all over them like a rash - no pun intended)

Bodyglide for her anti-chafing balm - works great even in the very hottest weather and they make a really small size that's perfect for backpacking. You can buy it at Target or REI. I love hiking in a skirt!

 

[witsendwv]

You can wear men's ExOfficio boxerbriefs (they don't make the women's version anymore). They come down to just above mid-thigh or so and are breathable, light, and dry fast.

Skirt-wearers...do you not worry about thigh chafing? I know I do! It’s the one thing that stops me from getting a hiking skirt (otherwise I’d be all over them like a rash - no pun intended)

Rather than wear a skirt, I like a little something else underneath so I wear Title Nine skorts, I prefer the Swingtastic model because it is a bit longer than the others. It also has two zippered pockets in the front.

 

[J Willhaus]

I have had a regular Macabi, but it is just too long for me. I find I trip on it walking uphill, etc. One skirt I took with me this winter to the Camino was a black "rip skirt". I liked it because it went easily with winter leggings and was great for wearing to the shower and back with just a t-shirt . Lightweight and looked nice in the evening with leggings and a scarf. Drawback is that there are no pockets.
https://ripskirthawaii.com/collections/skirts

 

[trecile]

Rather than wear a skirt, I like a little something else underneath so I wear Title Nine skorts, I prefer the Swingtastic model because it is a bit longer than the others. It also has two zippered pockets in the front.

I don't like skorts because they are really just dressed up shorts, and don't have the flexibility of a skirt. I can wear my lightweight running shorts, bike shorts or leggings underneath a skirt. I also don't have to pull the whole thing down when nature calls.

 

[witsendwv]

I don't like skorts because they are really just dressed up shorts, and don't have the flexibility of a skirt. I can wear my lightweight running shorts, bike shorts or leggings underneath a skirt. I also don't have to pull the whole thing down when nature calls.

I don't like skorts because they are really just dressed up shorts, and don't have the flexibility of a skirt. I can wear my lightweight running shorts, bike shorts or leggings underneath a skirt. I also don't have to pull the whole thing down when nature calls.

The Title Nine skorts look just like skirts, and have a soft mesh "boy" shorts underneath that can be pulled aside if need be. Shorts or leggings under a skirt still have to be pulled down, and I have found that to be more awkward. (And potentially revealing! )

 

[witsendwv]

I have had a regular Macabi, but it is just too long for me. I find I trip on it walking uphill, etc. One skirt I took with me this winter to the Camino was a black "rip skirt". I liked it because it went easily with winter leggings and was great for wearing to the shower and back with just a t-shirt . Lightweight and looked nice in the evening with leggings and a scarf. Drawback is that there are no pockets.
https://ripskirthawaii.com/collections/skirts

I have had a regular Macabi, but it is just too long for me. I find I trip on it walking uphill, etc. One skirt I took with me this winter to the Camino was a black "rip skirt". I liked it because it went easily with winter leggings and was great for wearing to the shower and back with just a t-shirt . Lightweight and looked nice in the evening with leggings and a scarf. Drawback is that there are no pockets.
https://ripskirthawaii.com/collections/skirts

I have had a regular Macabi, but it is just too long for me. I find I trip on it walking uphill, etc. One skirt I took with me this winter to the Camino was a black "rip skirt". I liked it because it went easily with winter leggings and was great for wearing to the shower and back with just a t-shirt . Lightweight and looked nice in the evening with leggings and a scarf. Drawback is that there are no pockets.
https://ripskirthawaii.com/collections/skirts

I just looked at these, I like the longer version, and that looks like it has a small pocket. It also looks like it might be possible to add a mesh pocket on the inside with even minimal sewing experience. Thanks!

 

[Vivello]

I've worn a Royal Robbins Discovery Skirt on two Caminos and just loved it. Big, secure pockets and looks good enough for wearing after the Camino. I wear it all summer at home as well. They are almost discontinued, but still out there. And the Purple Rain skirt looks similar, but a bit shorter.

 

[MichelleElynHogan]

Maybe it is just me but I prefer shorts over a skirt. And the price of a pair of pants with zip off legs and fast drying material, is about half the price of the best priced skirts on the list provided. Again, maybe it is just me.

However, I do use a Rain kilt rather than rain pants. In that area, staying dry is the first priority but to stay dry in a rain, ventilation is essential. And when comparing the weight of these, the Kilt comes out on top, by a lot.

 

[Northernlights]

The link below might be of interest for those thinking of hiking skirts (I am staying gender neutral, here )

I'm sure that this isn't a complete list, nor actually the best of the best; for instance the most talked about favorite on this Forum is AWOL. But, it may add to the knowledge base of what's available.

10 Best Hiking Skirts for Thru-hiking in 2024

We tested the BEST hiking skirts and the BEST hiking dresses on the market for 2024. Read to see how they performed, which is best for you, and get some GREAT buying advice. Purple Rain, Lightheart Gear, and more.

www.greenbelly.co

I’m not surprised to see lightheart gear at the top of the list and again further down with her hiking dress. i have the dress and it’s great and in a fashionable print. I haven’t tried purple rain, but I’ll check her site out as well.

 

[shefollowsshells]

I’ve hiked in my Macabi and have loved it, but our last camino I bought Purple Rain skirts for my daughters and myself and really loved the fabric and comfort. The gal who makes them is awesome!

 

[Mary Doll]

I like the look of the Purple Rain skirt but they only ship from USA which makes it expensive. For ladies in the UK I’ve just spotted this one. I have several pairs of the Dynama pants and they are the most comfy trousers ever, lightweight and dry fast.

Mountain Hardwear Womens Dynama Skirt

The women's Dynama Skirt one of the newest garments added to the pupular Dynama range from Mountain Hardwear. It's extremely comfortable and very durable, made from lightweight nylon-spandex fabric which stretches with your body, making each movement as comfortable as the next. It has a DWR...

www.ultralightoutdoorgear.co.uk

 

[DebK]

I love Purple Rain hiking skirts!!

 

[J Willhaus]

I just looked at these, I like the longer version, and that looks like it has a small pocket. It also looks like it might be possible to add a mesh pocket on the inside with even minimal sewing experience. Thanks!

The pocket is EXTREMELY small in the ripskirt. Like maybe it holds a pen. Very narrow. I don't know about adding a mesh pocket. It is just a wrap skirt with velcro to secure it. I did really like it because it was simple, easy to wash, dries fast. I had a black one and wore it with gray merino midweight leggings and a gray merino sweater. I was a hospitelera last winter and it worked well since I went with the pilgrims to mass every night right after coordinating dinner. I wore the same thing in the evenings after we transitioned from hospitaleros to peregrinos ourselves. I added a scarf to dress things up a little. In the summer I would skip the leggings and just wear it with a summer top or merino t-shirt.

 

[JessL]

I got a Tilley skirt that i am pretty excited about. It's just below knee length, so longer than these. I'll report back on how well it works.

Hi Lucy, I'm wondering if you've worn your Tilley skirt on any walks yet and if so, how did it fare? I'm doing my research and looking at which skirt to buy ...

 

[lizlane]

Great information for all who have posted! Thanks for sharing!

 

[Lucyk]

Hi Lucy, I'm wondering if you've worn your Tilley skirt on any walks yet and if so, how did it fare? I'm doing my research and looking at which skirt to buy ...

It has been really cold here so my training has been at the gym, but I did wear it over merino leggings on an 8km walk with my pack. My legs were a little chilly (it was about 0C/32F) but fine and I am glad i got it.

 

[Leigh Macklin]

An aside...rain skirts. If you can sew or afford them they are much more comfortable (IMHO) than pants. I love my WanderWrap and it has 2 pockets. Different length options but it gets expensive to ship outside of the USA.

 

[alaskadiver]

An aside...rain skirts. If you can sew or afford them they are much more comfortable (IMHO) than pants. I love my WanderWrap and it has 2 pockets. Different length options but it gets expensive to ship outside of the USA.

I love my Wander Wrap rain skirt! Never carry pants. Perfect over my Purple Rain skirt.

 

[JessL]

I ended up buying an Earth Sea Sky Tango Skirt (made in NZ) from a second-hand hiking and camping shop: https://www.earthseasky.co.nz/womens/tango-ii.html

I hadn't heard of the brand before but I've now worn the skirt on quite a few walks and very happy with it - soon to take it on the Camino