That's funny about the belt guy. I can't remember his name, but he's got my future business. His prices are lower than MS and the other big names, and I think his quality is just as good. He makes holsters as well as belts. You might see what he can do for you with a holster.
A lot of the people I know use Kydex OWB belt/paddle holsters from
talon tactical. Mike Benedict is a great guy and extremely knowledgeable. My guess is that would be a great way to carry when hiking. The holster stays pretty tight against the body. I'm thinking about getting one for my 229. If so, it'll be the 4th holster I've bought for it. I think they're about $45.
You may consider having more than one holster for use in different situations.
Here's what I have, and how I use 'em:
1. MS VMII that I use for concealed carry. It is comfortable, and conceals pretty well. I'm not very big, 5'9" and 165 lbs.
2. Uncle Mike's Kydex Belt Holster OWB. I use it at the range and around the house. It is comfortable, but does not keep the gun next to my body. I've only worn it out once, and I had a huge sweatshirt over it. My wife said that it was printing badly. I plan to replace this with one from Talon Tactical when I get the chance. I think that IWB would be the most comfortable way to carry for hiking.
3. Don Hume IWB waist band clip-on. I found it in the used bucket at a local gun store for $15. I leave it in the car. I can't carry at work, so I usually have my carry pistol in a belly bag in my glove box. If I stop someplace to/from work, and want to carry, this holster is easy to put on/off. The bad thing is that it is unstable due to the clip and is the main reason I don't use it very often.