Trek Clothing

Trek Clothing 
(for the amount of clothing you need to bring please see the Packing Lists Tab)

Dressing in pioneer clothing can have a tremendous impact on the spirit of trek.  The following is a short description of what the pioneers wore as they crossed the plains.  It also gives some hints for trekking in our day.

Men's Clothing
Shirts
Men's shirts were worn loose.  They had a narrow neck-band with no collar.  Plain colors were most common, but stripes or plaids were also used.  For modern day trekkers, light colors will be coolest. Choose something larger than a regular fit, with long sleeves.

Pants
Men's pants were also worn loose.  Wool or linen was used.  Colors included blue, black, gray, and browns, especially beige and tan.  Trekkers in our day find that wool is too hot but that cotton, corduroy, twill, and canvas pants are good choices.  Choose styles that are rather loose fitting to add comfort in walking.

Suspenders
Men's pants were held up by suspenders.  Suspenders were buttoned on the outside of the waistband, and crossed in the back.

Hats
Men's everyday hats ranged from pilot caps, straw hats, wide brimmed low felt hats, or round crowned hats.  Modern day trekkers should not wear baseball caps.  The appropriate types of hats are available at various party and costume store locations for a modest price.  But don't hesitate to look for hats at the Deseret Industries as well.

Women's Clothing
Dresses/Skirts
Women's basic dresses were floor length.  It could be plain or have many ruffles.  The sleeves were full and long, with buttons or bands at the wrist.  Necklines were usually high, with button up the front.  Fabrics were cotton in solid colors or small print.  Bright colors (excluding neons) were popular (especially bright yellow).  Blouses and long skirts or jumpers could be used.  Pioneer trekkers today have found that dresses and skirts should be mid-calf or about the top of the hiking boot in length (so the girls do not trip over their skirts while pulling).

Aprons
The standard apron was six to twelve inches shorter than the skirt length.  It gathered at the waist and tied.  The bib attached at the waist and was pinned to the dress bodice at the top two corners, hence, the pinafore (pinned at two of the four corners!).  Daytime aprons were made of calico remnants.  Sunday aprons were made from white fabric and did not have a bib.  For trekking today large deep pockets are important to be able to carry different items along the trail.

Bonnets
Women wore bonnets whenever they were outside.  They were made of cotton with a deep stiffened brim and a back ruffle to protect the neck.  They could be white, plain colors or a print, but they never matched the fabric of the dress.  For trekking today, bonnets or straw hats for the girls are important; they need to have something for protection from the sun.

Pantaloons
These were worn underneath the dress and were normally white.  Their length was usually between knee and mid-calf.  Wearing pantaloons helps maintain modesty in trekking situations.  For modern day trekkers knee length biker shorts, yoga pants or basketball shorts are appropriate.    

Women/Men's Clothing
Undergarments
Please be careful and modest in selecting your undergarments for Trek.  Simplicity and items made of breathable cotton will be the best choice.

Nightwear
Keep in mind the weather will most likely be COLD in the evenings.  We would like boys and girls to wear a pair of sweats pants (or sport pants) and a t-shirt.  They should each also have a sweatshirt to wear for additional warmth.  Nightwear is to be worn only when it is time to go to sleep, not when we arrive at a given campsite.  You will change into your bedclothes once it is time to retire to your tents/shelters.

Shoes and Socks
Comfort is important. Do not wear new hiking boots unless you have taken at least two months to break them in.  Bring two pairs of good tennis shoes in the event that one gets wet or causes blisters.  Pack a clean pair of socks for each day.  The medical committee has recommended we use nylon socks (like dress socks) against the skin to protect against blistering.

Items Not to Wear on Trek
Blue Jeans, shorts, baseball caps, tank tops, t-shirts, tight/short dresses, brand new shoes.  Stay away from modern clothing and prints.  Clothing and night wear should not ride low.  Please adhere to For the Strength of Youth Standards.