What to Wear For Glacier Hikes in Iceland

What to Wear for Glacier Hikes in Iceland

The most common advice you'll hear when it comes to what to wear in Iceland is to layer your clothing. This means dressing in several layers, each of which has a specific function, with the whole system working together to provide comfort and protection in a wide range of weather conditions.

Layered clothing is especially important in situations such as glacier hikes where conditions are cold and the weather can change quickly. Let's get into the basics of each layer:

Base Layer: The first layer, known as the base layer, sits closest to the skin. Its primary function is moisture management, wicking sweat away from the body to keep you dry and warm. Materials like merino wool or synthetic fibers are ideal for this layer because they are breathable and quick-drying.

You definitely want some comfy Merino wool tights (Básar) and a Polartec stretchy top (Vík) to keep you warm at the inner layer.

Mid Layer: The second layer, known as the mid layer, is the insulating layer, which traps warm air close to the body, providing thermal insulation. Fleece, down, and synthetic insulated garments are popular choices for this middle layer due to their excellent warmth-to-weight ratios. The thickness of this layer can be adjusted based on the temperature and the level of physical activity.

For a thin mid-layer with better mobility, something like a zip-up Neo Shell jacket (Snæfell), but for better insulation, a warm wool sweater (Bylur) may be a better option.

Outer Layer: The third layer, or shell layer, serves as the protective barrier against wind, rain, and snow. This layer should be waterproof and windproof to shield you from the elements yet breathable enough to allow moisture from the body to escape. This helps prevent overheating and maintains comfort during activities.

For absolute insulation from the cold, you can't go wrong with a windproof parka (Jökla), but for a lighter option, a nice down jacket (Keilir) can also be an excellent outer layer.

One of the great things about dressing in layers is the adaptability it provides. You can add or remove layers as needed to respond to changing weather conditions or your activity level, ensuring optimal comfort and protection. Remember: removing a layer you don't need is a lot better than suddenly needing a layer you don't have!

• See also: Glaciers in Iceland

Footwear and Accessories for Glacier Hiking

In addition to layered clothing, proper footwear, and other accessories are important as well. 

Footwear: Waterproof, sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are the optimal choice of footwear when going on a glacier hike. It's also important to wear some wool socks (Langjökull) to keep you warm. Tour operators usually provide you with crampons that are placed on your boots, ensuring optimal grip on the ice.

Hats and Scarves: A classic knit beanie (Workman's hat) that covers your ears and a neck gaiter or a mohair scarf (Krafla) can provide you with extra warmth and protection from the wind.

Gloves: Waterproof and insulated winter gloves (Langjökull) are necessary to protect your hands from cold and wet conditions. They should offer a good grip to help you hold onto equipment securely.

Sunglasses: Bringing a pair of sunglasses to a glacier hike can make a world of difference, as the sun's reflection on the ice can be extremely bright!

Hiking Gear: Other items for glacier hiking, such as helmets and ice axes, are usually provided by the tour operator. 

Best Time to Go Glacier Hiking in Iceland

Glacier hiking is one of the most thrilling things you can do in Iceland, but to get the most out of it, timing is crucial. The best time to go glacier hiking in Iceland depends on what you're after, but it is generally from late spring through early fall, approximately from May to September. 

During these months, the weather is milder, and the days are longer, providing more daylight for outdoor activities. This period offers warmer and more stable weather conditions, which can be crucial for both the safety and enjoyment of glacier hiking. Keep in mind that even during summer, the temperatures on glaciers will still be quite cold.

If you're thinking of visiting Iceland in winter, don't worry: glacier hikes can be conducted year-round with professional guides. While the winter hikes come with additional challenges, including shorter days, colder temperatures, and the possibility of difficult weather,  they also offer unique experiences such as ice caves and the northern lights, appealing to those seeking a different kind of adventure.

Regardless of the season, glacier hikes offer insights into the glacier's geography, ecology, and the impacts of climate change on these frozen landscapes.

• See also: Iceland's Weather, Climate, and Temperature Year-Round

Best Places to Go Glacier Hiking in Iceland

In Iceland, several glaciers offer guided tours, providing visitors with safe and informative ways to explore these magnificent ice formations. Here are some of the most popular glaciers where guided tours are available:

Skaftafell Nature Reserve

Photo from Glacier Hiking Tour in Skaftafell.

Skaftafell is a nature reserve located in Vatnajokull National Park in the Southeast of Iceland. It is a true hiking paradise characterized by its exceptional natural beauty and diverse landscapes, such as the famous basalt column waterfall of Svartifoss.

The national park draws its name from Vatnajokull, the largest glacier in Europe and the second-largest glacier in the world, which covers over 8 percent of Iceland. Vatnajokull and its many outlet glaciers have shaped the surrounding region, resulting in stunning natural attractions such as the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

Skaftafell is one of the best places in Iceland to go glacier hiking. On this 5-hour glacier hiking tour of Skaftafell, you'll experience the landscape that has been dramatically carved by the ice, impressive ice formations, and daunting crevasses.

Solheimajokull Glacier

Photo from Glacier Hiking Tour on Solheimajokull.

Solheimajokull is an outlet glacier of the Myrdalsjokull ice cap, known for its easily accessible and rapidly changing landscape. The glacier's retreat over recent years has become a visible indicator of climate change, making it an important site for environmental education.

About five miles long and just over a mile wide (eight kilometers long and two kilometers wide), Solheimajokull is an impressive feature on Iceland's South Coast, an area rich in other natural attractions such as the black sand beach of Reynisfjara and Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

This 3-hour glacier hike on Solheimajokull is a great and accessible way to get to know a glacier up close. You will not only get a fascinating encounter with the intricate ice sculptures found in the glacier but also a breathtaking view of the surrounding region.

Snaefellsjokull Glacier

Photo from Glacier Hiking Tour on Snaefellsjokull.

Snaefellsjokull is one of Iceland's most iconic glaciers located on the Snaefellsnes peninsula. Immortalized by Jules Verne as the gateway to the center of the Earth, this iconic landmark dominates the landscape with its mystical presence.

Snaefellsjokull National Park, surrounding the glacier and volcano, offers a range of interesting sights, such as the basalt cliffs of Londrangar and the mysterious cave of Songhellir. The peninsula is often called "Iceland in miniature," as the diversity of the natural attractions includes most of the country's iconic imagery.

Unlike the previously listed tours, hiking Snaefellsjokull is not recommended for beginners. This glacier hike tour of Snaefellsjokull is rather difficult, but if you can overcome the climb, you will be rewarded with views of the peninsula that are out of this world.

FAQs on What to Wear for Glacier Hiking in Iceland

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about what to wear for glacier hiking in Iceland.

What kind of footwear should I wear for glacier hiking?

For glacier hiking, you'll ideally want sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support. The boots should have a rigid or semi-rigid sole to accommodate crampons, which are necessary for traction on the ice. Most guided glacier hiking tours provide crampons, ice axes, and other specialized equipment you'll need. 

What should I wear to stay warm on the glacier?

Layering is key. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer like fleece or down, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. This setup allows you to adjust your body temperature easily as you hike.

Are gloves and hats necessary for glacier hiking?

Yes, insulated and waterproof gloves are essential to protect your hands from the cold and wet conditions. A warm hat that covers your ears will help retain body heat and protect against cold winds.

What is the best time to go glacier hiking in Iceland?

Summer is generally considered the best time to go glacier hiking in Iceland as the days are longer, the temperature is warmer, and the weather is less unpredictable. Even still, temperatures on the glacier can be low in the summer, and weather conditions can change rapidly.

Hopefully, we've answered most of your questions about what to wear when glacier hiking in Iceland. Do you have experience glacier hiking in Iceland? Let us know in the comments!