Appalachian Trail Sweatshirts: A Symbol of America's Most Famous Hiking Trail

The History and Popularity of Appalachian Trail Sweatshirts

The Appalachian National Scenic Trail, often referred to as simply the Appalachian Trail or the A.T., stretches over 2,190 miles from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. This famous hiking trail has captured the imaginations of outdoor enthusiasts for decades, leading to a thriving culture and community surrounding Appalachian Trail thru-hikes.

As the Appalachian Trail grew in popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, apparel and gear representing the trail became popular as well. These days, Appalachian Trail sweatshirts are some of the most popular apparel items sold by outfitters and enjoyed by hikers of the trail.

The Appeal of Appalachian Trail Sweatshirts

Appalachian Trail sweatshirts offer the perfect blend of comfort, style, and meaning. For thru-hikers who spend months on the trail, a cozy sweatshirt is a welcome piece of gear during cool mountain nights. And for anyone who appreciates the beauty and challenge of the iconic A.T., a sweatshirt allows them to visually celebrate their passion.

Often featuring trail maps, mountain silhouettes, footprint paths, and other trail-inspired graphics, Appalachian Trail sweatshirts capture the essence of this legendary hiking trail. They allow the wearer to bring a piece of their journey with them wherever they go.

Types of Appalachian Trail Sweatshirts

Today, hikers and outdoor lovers can choose from many types of Appalachian Trail sweatshirts to match their needs and preferences, including:

• Pullover hoodies: Featuring a hood and kangaroo pocket, these are some of the most popular and comfortable sweatshirt options.
• Full-zip hoodies: The full-length zipper allows for flexibility to open the sweatshirt up when warmer weather hits.
• Crewneck sweatshirts: A classic look without the hood, crewneck sweatshirts are perfect for more moderate weather.
• 1/4-zip sweatshirts: Usually made of lightweight material, 1/4-zip sweatshirts combine the ease of a pullover with some breathability.
• Women's shaped sweatshirts: Available in all of the above styles, these provide a flattering, contoured fit for female hikers.

Where to Buy Appalachian Trail Sweatshirts

Due to their longstanding popularity, it’s relatively easy to find Appalachian Trail sweatshirts from a variety of retailers, both online and in-person. Here are some of the best places to buy A.T. sweatshirts:

Outdoor Gear Retailers

Many popular outdoor gear stores carry Appalachian Trail sweatshirts, both in their retail locations and online. For example:

• REI
• Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)
• L.L.Bean
• Backcountry.com

The benefit of larger retailers is the breadth of inventory available. However, sometimes product designs can be more generic.

Appalachian Trail Outfitters and Gift Shops

There are a host of small businesses located along or near the Appalachian Trail that specialize in gear, apparel, and gifts. Checking out their sweatshirt designs can unveil some hidden gems, like:

• Appalachian Trail Conservancy Store
• Amicalola Falls Lodge and Outfitters
• Mountain Crossings at Neels Gap
• Harpers Ferry Outfitters

Smaller stores tend to have great trail-inspired and trail-tested product designs. However, sizing or color options may be more limited.

Appalachian Trail Guidebooks and Maps

Sometimes sweatshirts get bundled as part of special editions of Appalachian Trail guidebooks or commemorative map sets. For instance:

• The A.T. Guide Book and Companion Map Pack from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy
• Awol’s Appalachian Trail Guide Sweatshirt Edition
• National Geographic’s Appalachian Trail Wall Map and Sweatshirt Pack

These special edition products showcase Appalachian Trail sweatshirts alongside other coveted trail essentials, though availability can be intermittent based on production runs.

How to Choose an Appalachian Trail Sweatshirt

With so many Appalachian Trail sweatshirts on the market ranging from mass-produced to handmade, making the perfect choice comes down to a few key factors:

Material and Durability

Consider how often and for what purposes the sweatshirt will be worn. Lightweight cotton blends are suitable for occasional wear, while rugged fleece makes a longer-lasting choice for outdoor activity. Pay attention to stitching and fabric quality.

Fit and Sizing

Try on the sweatshirt if possible or carefully consult size charts to achieve the intended roomy comfort or more tailored look. Unisex sweatshirts provide a standard loose fit, while women’s cuts add shape.

Graphics and Design

Evaluate the sweatshirt graphics not just for visual appeal, but for meaningful representations of the Appalachian Trail. Look for designs that will spark nostalgic memories of the trail rather than generic screenprints.

Price and Value

As with most apparel choices, higher price does not always guarantee better quality or construction. Set a budget, evaluate options with an eye for detail, and choose the sweatshirt that offers the top value to become a beloved lasting memento.

Choosing an Appalachian Trail sweatshirt ultimately comes down to personal preferences and intended use case. By keeping fit, quality, design, and affordability in mind, A.T. enthusiasts can find the perfect sweatshirt to symbolize their passion for America’s most iconic hiking trail.

FAQs

Where can I buy an Appalachian Trail sweatshirt?

Popular places to buy Appalachian Trail sweatshirts include large outdoor retailers like REI and Eastern Mountain Sports, small specialty shops along the trail itself, and bundled alongside AT guidebooks or maps.

What types of Appalachian Trail sweatshirts are available?

Some common styles include pullover hoodies, full-zip hoodies, crewneck sweatshirts without hoods, lightweight 1/4-zip sweatshirts, and women's shaped sweatshirts.

What features make a good Appalachian Trail sweatshirt?

Ideal Appalachian Trail sweatshirts use durable fabric, feature a comfortable fit, display meaningful AT-inspired graphic designs, and offer solid value for the price.

Why are Appalachian Trail sweatshirts so popular?

Appalachian Trail sweatshirts allow hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and trail supporters to visually celebrate their passion for the famous 2,190 mile hiking trail in a comfortable and stylish way wherever they go.