What to wear hiking in Greece: clothes and shoes
The Pezoparea team · Updated · 6 min read
For a hike, wear three layers: a quick-drying synthetic or merino top, a fleece for warmth and a waterproof, windproof jacket on top. Skip cotton and jeans. On your feet, wear broken-in shoes with a sole that grips on loose gravel, plus proper hiking socks.
How does layering work?
Mountain temperatures change several times a day. You sweat on the climb, the ridge is windy, and you cool down fast at the lunch stop. Instead of one heavy jacket, wear three thin layers and take them off or put them on as you go.
Altitude matters too. On average, temperature drops about 0.6 °C for every 100 m you climb. If it's 14 °C in Lamia, expect around 4 °C at 1,800 m on Mount Oiti, and the wind will make it feel worse.
| Layer | Job | What to wear | Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Moves sweat away from your skin | Synthetic or merino T-shirt | Cotton T-shirt |
| Mid | Keeps you warm | Fleece or light synthetic jacket | Heavy cotton hoodie |
| Outer shell | Blocks wind and rain | Waterproof jacket with a hood | Disposable poncho |
| Trousers | Freedom to move, protection from thorns | Stretch hiking trousers or leggings | Jeans |
Why should I avoid cotton?
Cotton soaks up sweat and takes ages to dry. Wet fabric against your skin chills you as soon as you stop or the wind picks up, and on a winter mountain that can lead to hypothermia. Synthetics and merino dry faster and stay warm when damp.
A cotton T-shirt on a short summer stroll is fine. On a full-day outing with a big climb, you'll feel it at the first break.
What hiking shoes do I need?
The Hellenic Rescue Team lists good mountain footwear and weather-appropriate clothing among its tips for safe hiking (EOD). The key is the sole: you want deep lugs that grip rock, dirt and scree. Greek trails are full of loose gravel, where smooth trainers slip.
| Type | Best for | Watch out |
|---|---|---|
| Trail running shoes | Easy and moderate outings on good trails, summer | Little ankle support |
| Low hiking shoes | Most one-day outings | Need good socks |
| Mid boots | Moderate and hard routes, scree, mud, heavier packs | Heavier, need breaking in |
| Winter boots | Snow, winter grades (X1 and up) | Overkill in summer |
Break in new shoes on three or four walks around town before an outing. If you buy in a shop, try them on in the afternoon, when your feet are slightly swollen, wearing the socks you'll hike in.
What socks should I wear?
Merino or synthetic hiking socks, without thick seams at the toes and taller than your shoe. Pack a spare pair. If your feet get wet at a stream crossing, a dry pair saves you from blisters on the way back.
What should I wear in each season?
- Summer: a light-coloured synthetic top, a brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Carry plenty of water and avoid hiking during heatwaves.
- Spring and autumn: pack all three layers. The early coach ride is cold, the midday trail is warm.
- Winter: thermal base layer, warm fleece or down jacket, beanie, gloves, gaiters and waterproof trousers.
- Gorges with water: shoes you don't mind getting wet, or closed-toe sandals, and dry clothes in a waterproof bag.
What clothes should I carry in my pack?
- A rain jacket, even if the forecast says sunshine
- A warm layer for the summit break
- A buff or neck gaiter for sun and wind
- A dry T-shirt and socks for the coach home
FAQ
Can I hike in regular trainers?
Yes, on an easy route with a good trail, as long as the sole grips well. Smooth road-running shoes and canvas sneakers slip on gravel and wet rock.
Do I need waterproof hiking shoes?
They help in mud, rain and snow. In summer they run hotter and, if water gets in over the top, they take a long time to dry. For a Greek summer, breathable shoes are often more comfortable.
Leggings or hiking trousers?
Both work. Trousers hold up better against the prickly kermes oak and thorny scrub that line many Greek trails.
Can I wear shorts?
In summer, yes. Carry long trousers too, or wear zip-off trousers, for brambles, strong sun and a chilly summit.
Outings 4 outings
Wed 4 Nov
Πεζοπορία Τετάρτης: Προσήλιο – ΣαντζάκΕλληνικός Ορειβατικός Σύλλογος Ξάνθης · Easy · 2–2.5 h
Sat 7 Nov
Άνω Δολιανά Αρκαδίας - Γιορτή Κάστανου & πεζοπορία στα χρωματιστά δάση!Youth Trekking · Easy · 8 km · +300 μ · 2.25–3.75 h
Sat 7 Nov
Διήμερο στον ΈβροΕλληνικός Ορειβατικός Σύλλογος Ξάνθης · Easy · 10 km · +560 μ · 4.5 h
Sat 7 Nov
ΜετέωραWADE Outdoor Activities · Easy · 7 km · +330 μ · 2.5–3.5 h