Hiking attire for women has certainly changed over the past few years, from shorts and a T-shirt to leggings and a sports bra.
I’d like to make a case for why a hiking dress is a great choice that shouldn’t be overlooked, specifically the Columbia Women’s PFG Freezer III Dress. I originally purchased this dress for a month-long backpacking trip throughout Central America, and then purchased a second one for a 2-month-long backpacking trip throughout Thailand.
As I currently live on the road, this dress has been my go-to hiking outfit because it keeps me cool on these hot summer days and protects my skin from the sun!
In short: Not sold on a hiking dress yet? Read on for why you should try Columbia’s PFG Freezer. If you’re looking for a lightweight, packable, no-wrinkle, and comfortable dress for your next warm-weather adventure; this dress is a great choice. I’ll even be wearing it as I hike the Appalachian Trail next year!
Columbia Women’s PFG Freezer III Dress Review
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PFG Freezer III Dress Specs
- Features: Omni-Freeze wicking fabric, Omni-Shade UPF 50 sun protection
- Fit: Active fit
- Back length: 31 in.
- Price: $50
- Uses: General wear, traveling, hiking, camping, fishing
This dress is intended as a fishing dress, but it can be used for other uses like hiking and traveling. I don’t fish, but I know it quickly dries when it gets wet, not to mention its sun protection makes it a great option when you are on or near the water. It’s a really easy, singular piece of clothing to put on after swimming, too.
The dress is cool and quick drying, with 92% polyester and 8% elastane jersey fabric. It has Columbia’s Omni-Freeze accelerated cooling and wicking technology; the brand explains this as flat yarns that help disperse your body heat and push it away. The Freezer III dress also has Omni-Shade UPF 50 sun-blocking protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Whenever I look for hiking clothes, I always make sure they’re moisture-wicking and light. I continue to wear sunscreen, but it’s good to know that this dress protects you from the sun, too.
The sizes range from size XS to XXL, and there’s a plus-size version with sizes 1X, 2X, and 3X. For reference, I wear a size small, and I’m 5’3″. Its athletic or active fit is quite a flattering look.
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Dress Testing: Hiking
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Dress Packability: Traveling
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Columbia Women’s PFG Freezer III Dress: Conclusion
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