Wear clothes that are soft and will not rub. A Western hat has many advantages in the mountains. It will protect you from the sun, rain, or snow, and small branches. A straw hat is ideal in warm weather, a felt hat in cold weather. A plastic hat cover is useful. Gloves, preferably leather, are a must. A sharp knife should be carried in a front pocket or on a belt. A cased folding knife with a locking blade is a good choice.
A good plan for your clothing is to use the "layering" method used by mountaineers. This allows you to remove or add clothing to suit weather conditions. Avoid loose clothing, which may catch on the saddle horn or branches. Try to use wool or moisture-wicking synthetics for your comfort and safety.
A slicker should be carried on your saddle horse. Weather changes rapidly in the mountains. Accustom your horse to your putting on a slicker. A warm jacket should be carried even in warm weather. Chaps are useful; they'll turn a lot of water, protect your legs, provide warmth, and have the added advantage of not bunching up in the saddle. The nylon rain chaps worn by hikers are handy because they can be rolled up and kept in the saddlebag when not being used. Remember, don't wait until you are wet to put on rain gear.
Wear some type of boot with a riding heel. If much hiking or mountain
climbing is planned, extra footwear should be taken for the purpose.
Tennis shoes are handy around camp and help minimize area impact but should
never be placed in a stirrup. Vibram soles are also dangerous because
they tend to hang up in a stirrup. If tapaderos are used, they should
have solid bottoms. Tapaderos are advised for all youngsters so that
feet do not slide through stirrups or allow branches to go through and
hang up in the stirrups.
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