Dress for the Chill: What To Wear in Winter

by Laurie Wells — February 19, 2007

There are a few things that I consider necessities for any outing in the winter. Whether I'm headed out snowshoeing, hiking, cross-country skiing, or even for a long walk, I don't leave home without what I consider the basics. This list of cold-weather must-haves has amassed from any experiences out and about during the winter months, and will probably continue to be refined as my adventures continue.

Before leaving the house for any activity, the first thing I do is layer--with non-cotton layers. I throw on my old-standby polypropylene long-underwear tops and bottoms and a warm pair of breathable polyester-based socks, and add on from there depending on the activity--a good pair of waterproof ski pants; a thin polyester fleece jacket; a fleece-lined, brightly colored knit cap, a pair of synthetic-fabric liner gloves; and a hard shell to block out the wind and snow are common additions. I also pack along a compact down jacket to slip on when I stop for a snack or just to rest and enjoy the view.

I've learned from too many blue-lipped shivering experiences that cotton and winter exercise are a dangerous combination--I once hiked a 14er wearing cotton leggings and a pair of fashion boots; needless to say, I did not have a good time. Take off layers as you begin to sweat, and put them on as you start to feel chilled, and you'll not only have a much better time, you'll also avoid hypothermia.

Next in my list of provisions are my handy Yaktrax. When I received a pair of these webbed-rubber traction slip-ons as a stocking stuffer a few years ago, I was apprehensive that I would ever use them--now I can't imagine heading out in the winter without them. They are so small and lightweight that I just carry them in my jacket pocket. When I hit a part of the trail, or even sidewalk, that is covered in ice, I slip on my Yaktrax and walk as if I were on dry land. I'm a total convert and am constantly singing the praises of this invention.

Another item I always throw in the pack with water and a sports bar or two is my little LED headlamp. I don't know how many times I've headed off--or been dragged by my overenthusiastic husband--for an afternoon snow hike or cross-country ski, only to find myself squinting my way back by the last fading light of the day. It's easy to misjudge the time during the shortened days of winter--especially with an overcast sky, and many a time I've been relieved to follow the brilliant light of my headlamp back to the trailhead.

Finally, after gathering my winter-adventure essentials, I try to remember a few luxuries for the ride home. After a day nof playing in the snow, there is seriously nothing better than relaxing in comfy digs like a pair of soft fleece pants and some cozy slippers, grazing on a treat like peanuts and M&Ms, while jamming out to reggae during the slow drive home in the snow.