Motivation to get outside once the temperatures drop can be at an all-time low — but it doesn’t have to be! The key to getting outdoors in the fall is in your layers.
Here is a quick guide to layering for fall hikes, as well as some of my go-to clothing items to stay outside even when it’s chilly.
Under each clothing item, I listed the size I own. For sizing reference, I am 5’8″ and weigh 135 lbs. However, with my bump (22 weeks pregnant I weigh 150-ish lbs). I included both the size I wore before I was pregnant and the size I am currently wearing with my 5-month bump.
PS — Looking for more outdoorsy clothing recommendations? Check out my favorite Hiking Pants and my favorite Hiking Shorts for women.
Table of Contents
My Go-To Fall Hiking Layers
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REI Midweight Base Layer Half Zip Top

A good lightweight base layer is a must for any fall activity. This half-zip top allows you to stay warm while also having the option to unzip for easy venting.
Sizing: Pre-pregnancy size Medium, Pregnant size Large
Shop the Midweight Base Layer Half Zip Top ($60)
REI Midweight Base Layer Tights

There’s no need to buy specific pants for cold-weather hiking when you can easily throw on a pair of lightweight base-layer tights under the pants you already own.
I wear these while hiking, skiing, and even just lounging around the house.
Sizing: Pre-pregnancy size Medium, Pregnant size Large
Shop the Midweight Base Layer Tights ($55)
REI Trailmade Pants
I own these pants in every single color — they’re that good. They’re lightweight and comfortable, making them a perfect option to pair with base-layer tights.
Sizing: Pre-pregnancy size 4, Pregnant size 10
Shop the Trailmade Pants ($70)
REI Trailsmith Merino Wool Crew Socks

Not only are these socks cute (I want them in every color!), but they’re also warm, soft, sweat-wicking, and odor-resistant. They make perfect adventure socks, cute town socks, or cozied-up-by-the-fire socks.
Shop the Trailsmith Merino Wool Crew Socks ($17)
REI Trailmade Fleece Jacket

Wear this fleece on the trail, around camp, or out on the town. It’s cozy and comfortable to layer under a larger jacket.
Sizing: Pre-pregnancy size Medium, Pregnant size Large
Shop the Trailmade Fleece Jacket ($60)
REI 650 Down Vest
I love a good down vest because they’re cute and functional. Vests can drastically improve your warmth outdoors. They’re easy to layer under outer layers, and easy to shed and stow in your pack.
Sizing: Pre-pregnancy size Medium, Pregnant size Large
Shop the 650 Down Vest ($100)
REI Magma 850 Down Hoodie

I love my Magma 850 Down Hoodie — it’s technical, lightweight, warm, and packable. When choosing a down coat, warmth to weight ratio is always what I look for, as well as how easily it compresses.
This hoodie packs into its own pocket making it easy to take on any adventure!
Sizing: Pre-pregnancy and Pregnant size Large