Author
Gabi Stadulis
I don’t know what it is about wearing a dress that pumps me full of unexpected confidence. And these days, that’s just around the house. Wear one outside in the sunshine, rollerskating around the park, or hiking on a favorite trail, and that confidence—and comfort—goes through the roof.
The "adventure dress" isn't new. In fact, it's old. So old that its resurgence feels new again. This time, the renewed push centers both on comfort and practicality, and on to empowering people to wear whatever the hell they want. Whether you choose to wear a skirt or dress as an act of defiance to those who view femme-presenting people in the context of outdoor sports as somehow less capable for their gender or outfit choices, or simply because you think it’s comfortable, having the option is the important thing.
Beyond how it makes you feel, the practical case for hiking dresses and running skirts is strong, too. They’re breathable, great for ventilation, easy to lay in, encourage free movement, and of course, make backcountry bathroom breaks easier than ever. Case in point: In the thru-hiking community, rain skirts have become a functional item for backpackers of all genders. Dresses and skirts for outdoor activities just make sense, so we thought we’d share our favorites.
The following 9 items are our top picks for the best skirts and dresses for hiking, trail running, camping, you name it.
Outdoor Voices Exercise Dress
The very dress that inspired this list, the Exercise Dress is an Outdoor Voices staple, re-released seasonally with new patterns and colors. Form-fitting and flattering on any body type, this dress is your one-stop-shop for most any occasion—running, biking, hiking, etc. Except backpacking, as the body suit design may make going to the bathroom a real ordeal.
Pockets: Phone pocket
Built-in Bra: Yes
Built-in Shorts: Yes
Price: $100
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Title Nine Sun Hoodie Dress
This would be the perfect dress to slip into day one of a river trip—and never take off. Also perfect for any other sweaty outdoor activity where sun protection is crucial, or getting wet is expected. No built-in shorts for easy layering, with a convenient kangaroo pocket, hood for sun protection, and thumb holes.
Pockets: Yes
Built-in Bra: No
Built-in Shorts: No
Price: $104
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Houdini Duffy Skirt
Lightweight and quick-drying, this iteration from Sweden’s lesser known purveyor of design-driven, eco-friendly outdoors apparel is truly versatile. Made with a super packable fabric, this skirt is easy to stuff in the top of your pack to make for a quick changing station at camp, too. Large slits on the sides allow for a full range of motion, and zipper pockets make ensure valuables stay safe. The skort version is worth a look too, if you prefer built-in shorts.
Pockets: Yes
Built-in Bra: NA
Built-in Shorts: No
Price: $100
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Rec Room Strap Dress
This no-frills dress has an integrated bra and is made with performance fabric. A lack of built-in shorts makes for easy on and off and quick layering with leggings at camp. With a higher neck and longer length than most other options on the list, this modest dress is the top option for those looking for more coverage.
Pockets: No
Built-in Bra: Yes
Built-in Shorts: No
Price: $148
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Girlfriend Plum Skort
High-rise and snug in all the right places, this skort is made from sweat wicking sustainable materials, has hidden mesh pockets, and side slits for maximum movement and versatility.
Pockets: Yes
Built-in Bra: NA
Built-in Shorts: Yes
Price: $58
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Athleta Match Point Dress
With a mesh back and no sleeves, you can air out your ultra-sweaty pits and back. Don’t even worry about hiding it with this adorable number. The above-the-knee design offers mesh pockets and the option to layer your favorite pair of bike shorts underneath for maximum coverage.
Pockets: Yes
Built-in Bra: No
Built-in Shorts: No
Price: $89
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Outdoor Voices Hudson Skort
Another strong option from Outdoor Voices, this medium coverage skort has some clever hidden pockets and built-in shorts. Everything you need, and nothing you don’t.
Pockets: Phone pocket
Built-in Bra: NA
Built-in Shorts: Yes
Price: $58
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Nike Golf Skirt
Our only pleated skirt on the list, this super cute option from the Swoosh is for anyone with an active lifestyle. Marketed for golf, but practical for many uses. After all, isn’t golf just another sport where people walk around outside with a bunch of gear?
Pockets: Yes
Built-in Bra: NA
Built-in Shorts: Yes
Price: $70
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Lululemon Tee Dress
This free-flowing dress is an ideal option to throw on over a bathing suit after a surf at the beach. No frills and better for it, it’s soft and relaxed, easy to style up or down depending on the intended activity.
Pockets: No
Built-in Bra: No
Built-in Shorts: No
Price: $98
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Published 03-16-2021
