Hiking in the Rain: Essential Gear & Safety Tips

Hiking in the rain might not be your first choice, but trust me—it’s an experience you shouldn’t miss. In this guide, we’ll walk through how to make the most of hiking in the rain—choosing the right gear, staying safe, and even embracing the weather. So, if you're ready to swap indoor comfort for a little adventure, grab your rain jacket, lace up waterproof boots, and let’s dive in. You might just find that a rainy hike is exactly what you need to reset and recharge.

Is Hiking in the Rain Dangerous?

Short answer: It can be, but it doesn’t have to be.

Hiking in the rain isn’t automatically dangerous; it just shrinks your margin for error. With a bit of planning and the right layers, most rainy hikes are totally manageable. The key is understanding what actually makes it risky—and knowing when to call it.

What actually makes rain hiking risky?

Here are the main things that turn “nice wet walk” into “bad idea”:

• Slippery surfaces: Wet rock, roots, wooden steps, boardwalks, and clay-like mud get slick fast. A harmless stumble on a dry day can turn into a proper fall in the rain. Shorter steps, trekking poles, and footwear with real traction (not worn-flat sneakers) make a huge difference.

 

• Cold + wet = hypothermia: You don’t need snow for hypothermia—just being damp, a bit underdressed, and out longer than planned. Cotton holds onto water and sucks heat from your body, so in the rain it’s your enemy. Go for moisture-wicking base layers and a proper waterproof shell, then add or remove insulation as you warm up or cool down.

 

• Lightning and storms: A light drizzle? No problem. Thunder and dark, fast-moving clouds? Different story. Being on a ridge, summit, open field, or near tall lone trees in a storm is genuinely dangerous. If there’s thunder in the forecast, that’s when you rethink or shorten the plan.

 

• Rising water & flash floods: Heavy rain can turn small creeks into fast, pushy streams. In canyons or narrow gullies, water can rise quickly with very little warning. If the trail crosses lots of streams, or you’re in slot-canyon type terrain, you need to be much more conservative when rain is in the picture.

How much rain is too much for a hike?

It’s less about a specific number on the forecast and more about context:

• Light to moderate, on a familiar trail: Usually fine, as long as you’re layered well and the route doesn’t involve canyons, big river crossings, or exposed ridges.
  
• Heavy, sustained rain: Now you need to ask:
  
  • Does this trail flood easily?
    
  • Are there stream crossings?
    
  • Will the mud turn the descent into a slip ‘n slide?
    
  • What’s the temperature like? Cold + soaking rain is much more serious than warm summer showers.
    

If the forecast shows thunderstorms, flash flood warnings, or high winds, that’s usually the line: it’s not “epic,” it’s unsafe. Save it for another day.

Do Some People Like Hiking During Rain Storms?

Yes, some people enjoy hiking during rain storms! For them, it adds adventure and a unique challenge. The rain creates a secluded, atmospheric experience, with fewer hikers on the trail. The sound of rain, fresh scents, and solitude make it a peaceful and rewarding hike. While it’s important to stay safe and be prepared for the elements, many find hiking in the rain exhilarating and refreshing.

When Should You Not Hike?

The Benefits of Hiking in the Rain

At first, hiking in the rain might seem like something to avoid, but once you try it, you might find it offers some unique rewards. Yes, it’s wetter and muddier, but there are plenty of upsides to hitting the trails when the weather turns. Here’s why you should consider it:

1. Solitude and Peace

Rain clears the trails of most hikers, leaving you with a quiet, peaceful experience. Without the usual crowds, you get to enjoy nature’s sounds—like the rhythm of your steps and the gentle patter of rain—without distractions. For those who crave solitude, this is a golden opportunity.

2. Cleaner Air and Fresher Scenery

The rain refreshes everything. The air feels cleaner, and the scents are richer, thanks to the rain interacting with the earth. The forest seems more vibrant, and the landscape takes on a renewed sense of life.

3. Unique Beauty

Rain transforms ordinary landscapes into something magical. Waterfalls swell, moss glows, and the soft light creates a moody, atmospheric scene. It’s a photographer’s dream and offers a view of nature that’s hard to find on a dry day.

4. Wildlife Watching

Many animals are more active in cooler, rainy weather. You may spot more wildlife, from frogs and newts to birds and deer, as they forage in the rain. It’s a great time for those who enjoy wildlife observation.

5. A Sense of Adventure

There’s something badass about hiking in the rain. The challenge of navigating a slippery trail and the satisfaction of finishing the hike make it an adventure worth embracing. Plus, it's an instant confidence booster.

6. Health Benefits

Cooler temps in the rain make for more comfortable hiking, reducing the risk of overheating. Plus, the fresh air can help boost your mood and provide a sense of accomplishment, especially after braving the elements.

What to Do If It Rains While Hiking?

Getting caught in the rain on a hike isn’t the end of the world—in fact, it can still be a great experience if you handle it right. Here’s what to do the moment the skies open up:

1. Put on your rain gear right away

• Don’t wait until you’re soaked. Throw on your rain jacket, rain pants, and cover your backpack as soon as the first drops hit. Staying ahead of the moisture keeps you warmer and more comfortable.

2. Layer up before you get cold

• Rain can drop temps fast. Add an insulating layer under your shell if you feel even slightly chilly. Once you're cold and wet, it’s much harder to warm back up.

3. Protect your electronics and essentials

• Slide your phone, camera, or wallet into dry bags or Ziplocs. Even water-resistant pockets can fail during heavier rain.

4. Slow down and watch your footing

• Trails get slippery quickly. Shorten your stride, avoid shiny rock surfaces, and use trekking poles if you have them. A steadier pace will keep you upright.

5. Avoid exposed areas and high ridgelines

• If you hear thunder or see lightning, head to lower ground immediately. Stay away from open areas, summits, and lone trees.

6. Be cautious with stream crossings

• Rain can raise water levels fast. If a creek looks deeper, faster, or muddier than before, skip it. Turning back is better than risking a dangerous crossing.

7. Keep moving—but don’t push it

• A steady pace helps keep you warm. But if conditions worsen, visibility drops, or you stop feeling comfortable, turn back. Ending a hike early is not failure—it’s good judgment.

Essential Hiking in the Rain Gear

Whether a hike in the rain is fun or not largely depends on one thing: how well you're prepared. With the right gear, the rain is just background noise; with the wrong gear, the whole hike becomes a damp and cold ordeal. The following list will explain, from a practical perspective, what you really need for a hike in the rain.

Waterproof Outer Jacket: The First Line of Defense Against the Rain

When selecting a reliable rain jacket, here are three key factors to focus on:

• Waterproof Performance: Look for jackets with a rating in millimeters (mm) or a coefficient (K) to ensure they can handle moderate to heavy rain, not just light drizzles.
  
  
• Breathability: Sweating during physical activity is inevitable, so good breathability is essential to wick away moisture and keep you dry inside.
  
  
• Fit and Cut: The jacket should allow for easy movement without restricting your range of motion. The design should also be versatile enough for daily wear, avoiding an overly "outdoor" look.

Recommended: Alpargali Men’s All-Weather Outdoor Jacket

This All-Weather Outdoor Jacket is the ideal choice for tackling unpredictable weather. It combines professional-grade features with reliable performance: made with 70D double-layer fabric, it boasts a waterproof rating of 15,000mm and breathability of 15,000g/m²/24hr, plus a DWR coating, ensuring you stay dry even in moderate to heavy rain while staying comfortable during physical exertion.

Thoughtful design elements include 14 waterproof pockets (including an RFID arm pocket), which keep your phone, keys, and other essentials organized and easily accessible, eliminating the hassle of searching through your bag in the rain.

Other details like an adjustable hood for both visibility and protection, reflective prints for better visibility in low light, and built-in gloves for extra warmth on chilly days add to the jacket's functionality. The 3D tailoring ensures freedom of movement, making it suitable for a variety of activities.

Ideal for: City commuting, countryside hiking, or rainy and snowy travels—this jacket is a versatile protective shell that transitions smoothly from the airport to the trail.

Mid-Layer Insulation: Your Go-To for Cold, Wet Weather

Hiking in the rain isn’t just about being wet—it’s the cold, too. Along with a waterproof outer shell, you need a mid-layer that keeps you warm without feeling stuffy, especially in 5-15°C (41-59°F) weather.

Recommended Product: Alpargali CoreShell Softshell Jacket

The CoreShell Jacket is perfect for those who want a stylish city jacket that also handles temperature swings and light rain on hikes. It balances warmth and breathability, making it ideal for cold, damp conditions without the discomfort of being too warm or too cold.

1. Warmth Technology: With Core Lock™ insulation and a 2mm double-layer fleece, it improves warmth by 30% and breathability by 20% compared to regular fleece, preventing stuffiness in cold, damp weather.
   
   
2. Protection Features: The high-density outer layer and 10K waterproof, breathable TPU membrane protect against light rain, fog, and chilly weather. It also works well as a warm mid-layer under an outer shell.
   
   
3. Eco-Friendly Details: Featuring 13 practical pockets and made from GRS-certified recycled nylon and C0 fluorine-free waterproof fabric, it’s both functional and eco-conscious.

How to Style It?

• Mild Conditions: Wear CoreShell with a long-sleeve shirt for early fall, spring, or light rain.
  
  
• Cold + Rainy Weather: Layer a moisture-wicking base, CoreShell, and an All-Weather Outdoor Jacket for full coverage.

3. Waterproof Shoes / Hiking Boots: Keep Your Feet Dry

The biggest issue during rainy hikes is wet feet. To stay comfortable and avoid blisters, make sure your footwear is up to the task.

• Waterproof Membrane or Material: Look for shoes or boots with a waterproof lining or water-resistant materials.
  
  
• Sole Traction: Deep treads provide better grip on wet, muddy surfaces.
  
  
• Boot Height: Mid to high-top boots offer more protection in muddy or shallow water.
  
  

If you typically wear sneakers, switching to waterproof hiking boots will vastly improve your comfort.

4. Functional Socks: Key to Comfort

The right socks are crucial in rainy conditions:

• Avoid Cotton: It absorbs moisture and stays damp, causing discomfort.
  
  
• Choose Merino Wool or Synthetic Blends: They wick moisture away and stay warm even when wet.
  
  

Tip: Always carry a spare pair of dry socks in a sealed bag to improve comfort if your shoes get wet.

5. Rain Pants & Bottoms: To Waterproof or Not?

Whether you need rain pants depends on the weather and hike duration:

• Short, Light Hikes: Quick-dry pants are often enough for light rain.
  
  
• Heavy Rain or Longer Hikes: Lightweight rain pants provide extra protection.
  
  

Key Features: Look for rain pants with side zippers for easy on/off and ensure they’re loose enough for movement.

6. Backpack Waterproofing: Protect Your Gear

Rainy hikes also mean protecting your gear (phone, camera, clothes, food):

• Rain Cover: Works for medium to small backpacks but may not protect the back side completely.
  
  
• Dry Bags: Keep electronics and dry clothes in these to stay dry even if your pack gets soaked.
  
  
• Ziplock Bags: Cheap, effective for small items like phones, cards, or extra socks.
  
  
• Waterproof Jacket Pockets: If your jacket has them, use for frequently needed items.
  
  

7. Hats, Gloves & Essential Extras

Small items can make a big difference in rainy weather:

• Brimmed Hat: Helps shield rain from your face and glasses, especially with a hood.
  
  
• Waterproof Gloves: Keep your hands warm and functional in wet conditions.
  
  

Extras:

• Quick-Dry Towel: Great for wiping rain off your face or gear.
  
  
• Headlamp: Days can get darker in rainy conditions, and a headlamp can help.
  
  
• Energy Snacks: Keep high-energy snacks on hand to prevent fatigue from the weather.
  
  

How to Keep Your Feet Dry When Hiking in the Rain

Keeping your feet dry is crucial when hiking in the rain, as wet feet can significantly reduce comfort and even cause blisters. Here are some practical tips to keep your feet dry:

Choose Waterproof Hiking Boots

• Wearing waterproof hiking boots is the first step to keeping your feet dry. Look for shoes with waterproof technologies like Gore-Tex, and make sure the soles provide good traction for slippery surfaces.

Wear Quick-Drying Socks

• Avoid cotton socks and opt for wool or synthetic fiber socks that wick moisture away and keep your feet dry. Bring a spare pair of socks and change them promptly when they get wet to stay comfortable.

Use Waterproof Shoe Covers or Gaiters

• Wearing gaiters can help prevent water from entering your shoes through the cuffs of your pants or the top of your boots, especially in areas with heavy rain or mud.

Wear Waterproof Pants

• Waterproof pants can help keep rain from running down your legs and into your shoes, especially when crossing areas with standing water.

Regularly Check Your Shoes and Socks

• Take regular breaks to check your shoes and socks to make sure no moisture has accumulated. If your socks start to get damp, change into a dry pair to maintain comfort.

Hiking in the Rain in California

California may be known for its sunny weather, but hiking in the rain can offer a unique and refreshing experience. Here’s a quick guide to hiking in the rain across different regions of California.

1. Coastal Hikes

Rain makes California’s coastal trails, like Big Sur and Point Reyes, even more dramatic. The ocean looks wild, and the air is fresh and salty. Expect some mud and strong winds, but the views are worth it.

Recommended trails: McWay Falls Trail (Big Sur) and Tomales Point Trail (Point Reyes).

2. Redwood Forests

Rain in the Redwoods creates a magical atmosphere. The giant trees shelter you from the worst of the rain, and the forest feels calm and fresh. Trails can be slippery, so tread carefully.

Recommended trails: Tall Trees Grove (Humboldt Redwoods) and Prairie Creek Redwoods.

3. Sierra Nevada Mountains

Rain in the Sierra Nevada means lush greenery and swollen waterfalls. The trails can get muddy, and higher altitudes may have cooler temperatures, but it’s an adventure.

Recommended trails: Mist Trail (Yosemite) and Kings Canyon.

4. Desert Trails

Rain in the desert, like in Anza-Borrego or Joshua Tree, is rare, but when it happens, the desert comes alive. Flowers bloom, and the landscape becomes vibrant. Expect muddy trails and cooler weather.

Recommended trails: Borrego Palm Canyon (Anza-Borrego) and Hidden Valley (Joshua Tree).

Ready for Your Next Rainy Hike?

Hiking in the rain can offer a completely different, yet equally rewarding experience. With the right gear, you can embrace the challenge and enjoy the solitude of the trails, whether you're in California's coastal regions, redwood forests, or the Sierra Nevada mountains.

At Alpargali, we design high-performance gear that ensures you stay dry, comfortable, and stylish, no matter the weather. So, don’t let the rain stop you. Gear up with Alpargali Jackets for your next rainy hike, and make the most of the outdoors—rain or shine.