After a thrilling ride on the Mountain Coaster in Branson, taking any outdoor adventure is a great way to stay fit. Before embarking on your next adventure, make sure you have all the necessary outdoor clothing. When hitting the trails, it's critical to dress appropriately. Consider these essential hiking clothing suggestions and optional items that can help you dress appropriately to make the most of your time in the great outdoors.

Hiking Pants

When choosing pants to wear on the trail after a thrilling ride on the mountain coaster in Branson, you may want to go with a more traditional pair of hiking pants. Look for tough cargo styles made for outdoor use. The best options are breathable fabric and mesh-lined pockets that zip shut to keep loose items safe. Look for pants with strategically placed vents to keep you cool while still protecting your legs when hiking in warm weather. Avoid styles with vents for winter hiking.

Hiking Leggings or Tights

If you want to keep your legs covered but prefer more form-fitting pants that move with you, invest in a good pair of outdoor leggings or tights. Yoga or running tights made of spandex is ideal for day hikes or overnight backpacking trips. If you're going on a multi-day backcountry trip, you might want to go with something a little heavier-duty, like triathlon tights. This type of bottom can also be worn as a base layer under traditional hiking pants for cold-weather hikes.

Cargo Shorts

Cargo shorts can be a good option for warm-weather hiking if you don't want your legs to be covered entirely, as long as they are loose-fitting and made of a breathable fabric. Deep pockets with zip closures are ideal, but Velcro closures can also be helpful.

Convertible Hiking Pants

If you like the idea of cargo shorts but aren't willing to commit to having your legs exposed for the duration of your hike, consider a pair of convertible hiking pants with leg bottoms that can be easily zipped on and off. The pair shown here is made of nylon and has an elastic waistband, but they are available in various fabrics and styles.

Running Shorts

If you like shorts but aren't a fan of cargo-style bottoms, consider a pair of running shorts. They're made to be worn outside during strenuous activity, making them an excellent choice for hiking. Look for lightweight, breathable fabric and an easy fit to allow you to move freely and comfortably throughout your hike.

Biking Shorts

Cycling shorts are another excellent choice for warm-weather hiking. They should be form-fitting but not too tight so that they cut into your legs. Make sure to try them on before making a purchase. Walk around the fitting room (or at home if you shop online) to ensure the legs don't ride up. That would be a dreadful hike!

Hiking Tank Top

A tank top or short-sleeved shirt designed for workouts or extended outdoor wear is an excellent option for hiking in warm weather. This type of top should be fitted in some way. Choose a size that is neither too tight nor too loose - it may appear that a blousy, open-top would be ideal for hiking, but this is not the case. Even if you're not hiking in warm weather, this top type can serve as an excellent base layer.

Layered Tops

When it comes to hiking tops, layering is a great strategy. Consider wearing a base layer with a pullover shirt, a button-up shirt, and a sweatshirt. Even if it's cold outside, you may want to shed layers as you begin to warm up from exertion. This will give you the most freedom in adding and removing clothing items based on your comfort level.

Warm Jacket

If you're a four-season hiker, you'll probably need a variety of jackets to ensure that all of your hiking wardrobe's warmth needs are met. Outdoor-specific jackets are a must-have for cold-weather hiking. Look for lightweight, easily packable jackets designed for outdoor use and rated for the climate you'll be in. Hiking styles with zip-on/zip-off hoods are ideal. Consider GORE-TEX or similar waterproof outerwear to keep you dry and warm. Consider getting a headlamp if you'll be hiking after dark.

Lightweight Rain Jacket

You'll also need a lightweight rain jacket or windbreaker to keep handy if you get caught in a shower (or a downpour!) while hiking. Choose a size that will fit over whatever else you're wearing, even if you're bundled up in all your other layers. Look for one that can be rolled up and stuffed into a teeny-tiny corner of your gear bag to keep it with you. This way, you can get by with only one rain jacket.

Preparing for any outdoor adventure after a thrilling ride on the mountain coaster in Branson necessitates considering the appropriate clothing to wear.