What to Wear for Summer in Idaho

Idaho is lucky in that we get all four seasons, but summer and winter tend to feel longer than the shoulder seasons spring and fall. Summer in Idaho can be absolutely brutal, with stagnant conditions due to the “death ridge” (a persistent high pressure ridge over the western US) causing high temperatures and no relief in the form of clouds or rain. (The stagnant air also results in trapped smoke and poor air quality if wildfire season is underway.) Sometimes, the monsoon reaches up into southern Idaho, increasing the humidity and resulting in showers and thunderstorms. But we are all wary of lightning, as that often starts wildfires if there’s no rain.

It’s not uncommon for high temperatures in Idaho to soar to over 100 degrees F multiple times during the summer months. This year, Boise has hit a new record number of days at 100 or above. The Lewiston area also reaches 100 degrees quite a few times during the year, and the higher elevations can see temperatures up into the 90s. Nowhere is safe from the heat.

Whether you’re new to the state or here for a visit, this is a list of exactly what you should pack and wear to stay cool in an Idaho summer, including the best fabrics to keep you comfortable and accessories you will not want to forget to wear!

What to wear for hot summers in Boise, Idaho: the best fabrics to stay cool | Cotton Cashmere Cat Hair

Casual summer outfit idea with linen blend blouse and cotton gauze shorts | Cotton Cashmere Cat Hair

Idaho summer outfit idea with Everlane day crossover sandal in black | Cotton Cashmere Cat Hair

What to Wear for Summer in Idaho

1. Breathable, natural fibers (Linen and Cotton!)

As I mentioned, summers in Idaho are HOT. Make sure you wear as many natural fibers as you can (including linen and cotton, two of my favorites). Natural fibers are the most breathable and will keep you cool in the heat. Avoid polyester and other man-made materials, as they will trap heat, moisture (sweat), and odor.

In this outfit, I’m wearing a linen-blend swing top and cotton gauze shorts (lightspun by Madewell). I reach for linen in particular all summer long! Yes, linen wrinkles way easier than other fabrics, especially 100% linen. If you’re not about that look, opt for garments that are made of linen blended with another fabric that won’t show wrinkles as much.

2. Loose, lightweight garments

Not only should you wear natural fibers in the hot summer months, opt for garments that are loose and lightweight. I love a good swingy top and loose shorts (as shown here). Also: dresses and skirts are great options! Non-waisted dresses are perfect for summers in Idaho. The less fabric touching you, the better. Another tip: Opt for lighter colors; dark colors like navy and black will absorb more heat and make you feel hotter.

3. Sandals

I don’t know about you, but my feet can hardly stand being in closed-toe shoes in the summer months…unless I’m hiking or doing other outdoor activities, of course! I live in sandals all summer long. My feet need to breathe when it’s hot out. The downside to wearing sandals all summer is the fact that I have to re-break-in all of my flats and boots in the fall!

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4. Hats

I’m not wearing one here oddly enough, but HATS will (literally) save your face in the summer! Hats, especially those with wider brims like sunhats or straw hats, keep the sun off of your face and neck. Sun protection is sexy! 😉 They’ll also help keep you cool in the dog days of summer.

5. Sunglasses

I wear my sunglasses year-round but definitely wanted to mention them here in case you don’t! Protect your eyes and wear sunglasses during summer in Idaho. Your eyes will thank you! My favorite pair of sunglasses is the Le Specs Air Heart oversized cateye sunglasses, which offer UV protection (a must) and now also come in a polarized version.

6. Sunscreen

Do NOT forget sunscreen. If you’re going to be outside for any length of time, apply sunscreen. That high sun angle will get you. And wear sunscreen ESPECIALLY if you’re in the mountains—you’ll burn faster at higher elevations! (Trust me on this one.) Reapply frequently! You may also want some bug spray to keep those pesky mosquitoes away if you’re near a body of water.