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Getting into backpacking can feel expensive.
The gear lists seem endless, and specialized clothing from brands like Arc’teryx or Patagonia can cost a fortune.
I get asked all the time if you really need to buy it all.
My answer is simple: for your first few trips, use what you already own.
That brings up a great question about using lululemon leggings for backpacking.
I decided to put my own gear to the test on a few overnight trips in the San Gabriel Mountains to see how it holds up.
The good news is that your favorite athletic wear can absolutely work.
You just need to be smart about when and how you use it.
The Truth About Using Lululemon Leggings for Backpacking
The main reason to use your Lululemon gear is to save money.
A good pair of merino wool base layers can set you back $70 to $140 or more, while you likely already have Lululemon leggings and tops in your drawer.
For a weekend trip in moderate weather, that’s a significant saving.
Most Lululemon fabrics, like Luon and Nulu, are synthetic.
This means they are moisture-wicking and dry much faster than cotton.
This is the single most important rule in the backcountry: avoid cotton at all costs.
Cotton absorbs sweat, gets cold, and can be dangerous.
Your Lululemon gear is a safe and practical alternative.
🌍Musa’s Take: Start with What You Have
For your first one or two-night backpacking trips, there is no need to buy expensive merino wool. Your existing synthetic athletic wear is more than capable, especially in a place with a dry climate. Save your money for essential safety gear first.
I’ve found my Lululemon leggings are comfortable under hiking pants and durable enough to handle some light brush.
They won’t insulate as well as wool if they get wet, but for a dry weekend, they perform perfectly well.
Can I Use Lululemon for a Base Layer?
Yes, you can absolutely use Lululemon for a base layer.
Both their leggings and long-sleeve tops, like the Swiftly Tech, are designed to manage sweat during exercise.
Backpacking is just a long-form exercise.
They sit close to the skin and effectively pull moisture away from your body to keep you dry.
The big debate is often lululemon swiftly tech vs merino wool.
Each has its place, and one is not always better than the other.
It depends entirely on the conditions of your trip.
I’ve used both extensively and here is my direct comparison.
Super comfortable and soft, you probably already own one for the gym.
Dries very quickly from sweat on the trail, which is a huge plus.
Very durable fabric that resists snags better than most merino.
It’s a multi-use item you can wear for hiking or regular workouts.
It will start to smell after a day of hard hiking.
Offers almost no insulation if it gets wet from rain.
Not as warm as wool for its weight in cold conditions.
Less breathable than high-quality merino wool.
Naturally odor-resistant, a huge benefit for multi-day trips!
Insulates well, even when it’s a little damp.
Excellent at regulating body temperature in hot and cold weather.
Extremely breathable and feels great for long-term wear.
It is very expensive, a big investment for a beginner.
Less durable than synthetics and can snag or develop holes easily.
Can take longer to dry out completely if it gets soaked.
Some people find certain types of wool to be itchy.
What to Wear for Southern California Winter Backpacking
This is the exact environment where Lululemon shines.
The question of what to wear for southern california winter backpacking comes down to smart layering.
Our winters are mild, but temperatures can drop fast after sunset, and knowing how to stay warm backpacking cold is crucial for comfort and safety.
My system is built for a day that might be 15°C (60°F) and sunny while hiking, but drop to 2°C (35°F) at night.
I wear my Lululemon Swiftly Tech long sleeve and Align leggings.
They are perfect for handling sweat on the uphill parts.
This setup is ideal for the cool but not freezing SoCal winter air.
Just be certain they will not get soaked from heavy rain.
A simple fleece jacket or a light puffy jacket is key.
This layer traps your body heat when you stop moving.
Take it off while you’re hiking, then put it on immediately at camp.
My go-to is a Patagonia Nano Puff, it’s light and very warm.
A lightweight windbreaker or a simple rain jacket is essential.
This layer protects you from wind and any unexpected showers.
It doesn’t need to be fancy, just effective at blocking wind.
It packs down small and adds almost no weight to your pack.
Is Merino Wool Necessary for Winter Hiking?
This brings us to the final question: is merino wool necessary for winter hiking?
My direct answer, based on experience, is no.
It is not always necessary.
It is a fantastic material and my top choice for serious conditions, but it is not a requirement to get started safely.
Your Lululemon gear is a perfectly acceptable substitute under the right circumstances.
💡When Lululemon is a Great Choice
Use your Lululemon gear for 1-2 night trips in moderate, mostly dry climates like Southern California. It’s perfect for when temperatures are above freezing and you have a low chance of prolonged rain.
However, safety and comfort are always the top priorities.
There are times when investing in wool is the smarter and safer decision.
⚠️When to Invest in Merino Wool
Choose merino wool for trips longer than 2 nights, or any trip with a high chance of rain or freezing temperatures. Wool’s ability to insulate when damp and resist odor makes it far superior for challenging conditions. You invest in wool to avoid getting caught in blizzard while hiking without the right gear.
FAQs: Your Questions on Lululemon for Backpacking
Why is cotton so bad for backpacking compared to Lululemon’s fabric?
Cotton acts like a sponge; it absorbs sweat and rain and loses all its insulating properties, which can be dangerous and lead to hypothermia. Lululemon’s synthetic fabrics are designed to wick moisture away from your skin, helping you stay much drier, warmer, and safer on the trail.
Are Lululemon Align leggings a bad choice for backpacking?
They aren’t the best choice for active hiking. The soft Nulu fabric is very prone to pilling from the friction of a backpack’s hip belt and can easily snag on bushes. They are better used as a comfortable layer for sleeping in your tent.
Can I wear just the leggings as my only hiking pants?
Yes, on well-maintained trails and in mild weather, you can. However, wearing a pair of durable hiking pants over them is often a better strategy. This adds significant protection from scrapes, sun, and insects, and gives you more functional pockets.
What is the biggest sign I need to upgrade to merino wool?
You should upgrade when you plan a trip that is longer than two nights or has a high probability of cold, rainy weather. In these conditions, merino wool’s natural odor resistance and ability to insulate even when damp become critical for both comfort and safety.
Do I need leggings with pockets for backpacking?
Pockets are not essential, but they are extremely useful. Having a secure side pocket for your phone (for navigation and photos) or a small snack means you don’t have to stop and take off your backpack as often. It’s a major convenience on the trail.