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Baby, it’s cold outside – but that doesn’t mean you need to stay cooped up all winter! The proper gear can make you more comfortable and the outdoors more pleasurable during cold weather. There are a few key things to consider before you leave your warm, cozy house.
1. Start at the Base
Remember your long underwear – starting with proper base layers is key to your outdoor comfort. Dress according to your intended activity level and the weather outside (i.e. thinner or thicker fabric).
If you don’t have a sensitivity to or aversion to wearing wool, it makes an excellent base. Wool wicks moisture away from the skin and dries quickly, preventing you from catching a chill when active outdoors. It is also naturally anti-microbial, so that it will help with odors. For a lighter-weight option, consider silk. Synthetics such as nylon and polyester will also do the trick.
Cotton should be avoided at all costs. Not only is it intended to keep you cooler, but it absorbs moisture quickly and takes longer to dry, potentially putting you in a dangerous situation if you get wet (read: hypothermia).
2. Let’s Get Insulated
You’ve got your base layers and clothing on – now it’s time to think about insulation. The insulating layer, or mid-layer, is what helps retain the heat your body emits. It can be in the form of a few different clothing types, depending on the temperature and your outdoor activity.
Three excellent insulating options include: down, synthetic, and fleece. Many of the popular “puffy” coats you see throughout the winter are considered mid-layers. They are not waterproof or windproof, making them perfect for layering under an outer shell.
Down comes from the under feathers of ducks and geese. Its “fluffiness” creates small air pockets which trap warm air and retain heat. It is excellent for more warmth with less weight.
Synthetic insulation tries to emulate down’s qualities, and it comes close. It doesn’t compress as nicely, but, unlike down, it does keep insulating even when wet. So, if you’re in wetter weather without an outside shell, synthetic may be a better option.
Fleece comes in different thicknesses and will keep you warm even if it gets wet. The downside is that its breathability means the wind will cut right through it.
3. Keep the Wind & Water Away
It’s all about the layers! The last piece of your core body comfort is the outer shell. On a dry, calm day, the proper base layers and mid-layers may be all you need; however, we all know how the wind changes everything. An excellent outer shell will be both windproof and waterproof, keeping your insulating layers dry and your core warm. Shells can be found in both jackets and pants.
4. The Little Things
You’re all dressed up to go outside – almost. It might be tempting to skip the little things, but believe me, you will regret it. Make sure to grab a hat or earmuffs, a scarf or buff, and a good pair of gloves. Keep in mind what you’ll be doing outside so that you choose the right things (i.e. a wool or fleece buff for colder weather, waterproof gloves for moisture, etc.).
5. Keep Your Feet Happy
I’ll say it once, and I’ll say it again – if your feet aren’t happy, the rest of you won’t be happy. Proper footwear is essential, and it starts with your socks. As with base layers, it is best to avoid cotton. Stick with wool or synthetic, both for warmth and the moisture-wicking properties. Consider layering your socks for colder weather, especially if you aren’t planning to be very active.
Next step: choose the right footwear for what you’re doing. Waterproof, insulated boots will keep you warm and dry. If you’re planning to walk or hike, find something that supports your foot well. Several hiking boot companies are making insulated versions of their best-sellers. Keep in mind that cute, stylish, and lightweight rarely equals warm and supportive. Be sure to do your research, and talk to a professional for guidance.
It took one bad fall on the ice for me to become a traction-device convert. Now, I never leave my house for any serious winter outing without them. Traction devices have a flexible harness and are built to slip on and off your shoes as needed. The tread ranges in aggressiveness, from metal coils to chains or spikes.
Winter doesn’t have to mean staying inside – with the right gear, and you can get outdoors and stay active and comfortable even in the harshest weather.
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