Okay, Fashionistas! Let’s try some new and exciting adventures in 2022! I’ll call this series “Curvy Adventures” – dedicated to our beautiful and curvaceous selves trying out new hobbies! Yes, hobbies! We will start with hiking and nine must-haves for your journey!
@AshleeRoseHartley
Society and even ourselves often hold the Plus Size community back from trying new hobbies due to size. What does size have to do with it? Absolutely nothing! We can do anything we put our minds to, and it has nothing to do with our size!
Our Plus Size Hiking INspo!
Need outside motivation? Fantastic groups around the globe, such as WOMEN WHO EXPLORE(www.womenwhoexplore.com), have been created to build community and encourage women to be more adventurous and bold in living life and starting hobbies. This group has successfully built a community of more than 250,000 women worldwide and in different countries, too – creating “a safe space for all voices, all bodies, all skill levels, all journeys.”
“Our experiences inspire unforgettable memories where strangers become friends. We invite you to join us on an adventure to discover new skills and most importantly, yourself.” – Women Who Explore
Let’s get into it!
Hiking Apparel & Accessories
Every hobby has a specific “gear” that is worn. Basketball, football, golf, swimming, you name it. Particular items are either a must for flexibility, breathability, or protection. Hiking has its own apparel as well, where some stick to the best in hiking gear, while others mix it with workout gear. No matter what you choose, understand that there are potential risks, just like with every hobby or sport.
Here’s a checklist of essential items you want to consider when venturing out in the beautiful outdoors for your hiking hobby.
Proper Footwear
No matter if you are taking a brisk walk on a flat surface or want to be adventurous and conquer miles and heights, if your footwear isn’t right, your body will not be right either. You always want to consider your feet, ankles, knees, and hips in walking. Hiking boots, sneakers, and sandals made explicitly for your “trek” are ideal and the best way to go! For the “versatile hiker” who may want to use their footwear for other hobbies, Check out these beauties from Merrell! The Altalight Hiking Sneaker! And don’t forget wool socks for hiking! Try the Smartwool Performance low ankle socks.
Protect your Chest – Bra Support
No matter where you hike, be sure to give your chest proper support! Think support, comfort, and cool in selecting the best bra support. Check out the ADIDAS Originals x IVY PARK plus bralette in blue! This is a great find! A high support bra with adjustable straps, molded cups, a stretchy fit for full support, and a mesh overlay so that it’s breathable! Want more? Check out our TCF article on 9 Amazing Sport Bra Options!
High Support Bra(Plus Size)
Hiking Tops
The more comfortable you are, the better when going on a hike of any kind. Fashion and technology have worked together for years in developing the best fabrics for any activity. Check out Old Navy’s Cozecore Long Sleeve Cropped Rib-Paneled top. Made from heathered jersey with a soft interior that is “oh so” comfy! This top is ideal for hiking with its four-way super stretch and Go-Dry moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry!
CozeCore Long-Sleeve Cropped Rib-Paneled Top for Women
Outerwear
Everyone is different in how their bodies react to natural elements. Some hikers prefer a vest, while some go for a good hiking jacket. Athleta’s Tugga Vest and Point Reyes Bomber are stylish and practical choices! Designed for hiking, climbing, and exploring in cold climates, this cozy sherpa vest and lightweight, waterproof bomber jacket are made for the Curvy Hiker!
Tugga Vest
Pants with a Purpose
For your hike, you must-have comfortable, durable, movable pants that won’t be a pain in the “who-ha”! With that in mind, shop the TCF Shopand select “Athleisure” for some great finds. Also, Reformation has some softand cool Ecostretch High Rise leggings, perfect for those strolls in your neighborhood or in the park. Finally, check out Athleta with their Trekkie North Crop joggerfor the hiker ready to do some things!
Free Your Hands
If you are like me, while on a trek, I may get a little curious and do some climbing or even look for a cool rock to sit on high up! Hiking gloves are always good to have on deck. Some even wear them as protection just in case they slip and fall. Try Hestra’s Touch Point Fleece Liner Five Finger Gloves. And last but not least, a hiking backpack! One of our favorites is the Osprey Packs SKARAB 22L backpack, with a built-in water reservoir to keep you hydrated.
The Shopping List!
As The Curvy Fashionista editors, we write about stuff we love and we think you’ll like too. We often have affiliate partnerships, so we may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.
Whether you are a beginner or expert level hiker, it’s always good to be prepared, so we gathered all of our plus size-friendly hiking recommendations into one list to make it easier to reference.
