All products featured on Self are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
For one reason or another, I find myself spending moretime in the woodsthese days.
Caiaimage/Trevor Adeline/Getty Images
Why is some of this stuff so baggy?
Why do these pants zip into shorts?
And most of all: Out of all of this, what do I actually need?
From Left: Prana; Orvis; Athleta
When it comes to aesthetics versus durability, there isnt a lot of overlap.
So, how does one dress for the outdoors without cosplaying as storebrand Steve Irwin?
The short answer: you’re free to!
From Left: Patagonia; IceBreaker; Orvis
I earned it, OK?)
If you do opt fortights or leggings, there are a few factors you should be aware of.
Scope out the inner fabric tag: If theyre made of cotton, skip them.
Top Row, From Left: Merrell; Smartwool; Keen
There are a lot of factors at play when picking a pair of pants for an outdoor adventure.
Pocketsreal ones, not the fake kind that fit approximately three almondsare a big plus, too.
Remember when we were all getting excited when they started making dresses with pockets?
Thats how I feel about a thigh pocket right now, she says.
She mentions theirWading PantsandTrek Tech Pantsspecifically.
Most of their clothing is marketed toward fishing, but it crosses over well.
Layers have been the key to bridging the gap between form and function for me, Annalise says.
Shelby gives another vote to Patagonia for theirworkwear line.
And Morgan likes Orvis for their soft, quick-dry shirts, like theOpen-Air Casting Shirtand theDrirelease line.
Underthings matter, tooa lot.
Socks and underwearare those little pieces of clothing that can make a huge difference, says Annalise.
I find the assumption that only svelte ladies like to get out in nature to be frustrating.
Outdoor clothing and gear is expensive.The good news is, lots of these things can be purchased secondhand.
Dont forget to shop small.Big retailers arent the only options anymore.
Shelby recommends startups likeRed Ants,Moxie and Moss, andHandymaam Goods.
Oh, and one last thing:Dont forget towear sunscreen!
