PIONEER CLOTHING

PIONEER CLOTHING

Dressing the part in an essential element of the trek experience. The following are some useful guidelines for male and female period dress. 

Footwear: To avoid blisters, please use tennis/hiking shoes or hiking boots that are well broken in. Do not use brand new shoes. Cowboy boots or shoes with flexible soles are not recommended. Sandals, flip-flops, or open toe shoes are prohibited. Your feet will swell slightly on the trek so avoid shoes that are too small or too tight. Correct socks are a key to preventing blisters. Wool socks are preferred. You may wish to wear thin athletic or moisture-wicking socks underneath wool socks. Do not use cotton socks.

For Women

Dresses or Skirts: Skirts are probably the most practical because tops can be changed to keep clean. We strongly encourage 2 skirts/top or 2 dresses for the trek. Young women leaders may want to hold activities where young women make their own trek clothing. Dresses/skirts should be about 6 inches from the ground (mid calf). This will keep them high enough to avoid tripping and tearing, but long enough to be authentic. Neckerchiefs are encouraged.

Aprons or Pinafores: Help to keep the dress clean and adds authenticity to the clothing. Please add at least one large pocket (to hold a drinking cup) or a set of ties at the waist (to tie around the cup handle). 

Bonnets: Bonnets are important because they prevent sunburn and eye strain. We encourage young women leaders and parents to work with their girls to make 1 or 2 bonnets for each young woman.

Under your skirt: Female participants should be sure to wear long (to the knees if possible) exercise shorts or bloomers (cutoff pajama bottoms or hospital pants) under their dress or shirt to avoid chaffing.

For Men

Shirts: Shirts of this era were loose fitting, long sleeved, and no collar. Since shirts like this are hard to find, a loose fitting lightweight long or short-sleeved button up collared shirt is acceptable.

Hats: Hats are important because they prevent sunburn and eye strain. Brimmed hats of wool, straw, or felt are recommended. No baseball hats, caps, or military type hats.

Pants: Pants should be cotton painter, chino, or work type pants. Material should be a solid color (no patterns or prints). No jeans or shorts. Avoid cargo type pants.

Other: Participants may also elect to utilize suspenders, neckerchiefs, or lightweight vests to create a more authentic pioneer look.