What to Wear Hiking in Cold Weather

The cold season should not stand in the way of having fun. It is still possible to have the time of your life in snowy or chilly conditions with sufficient preparation. Adequate insulation, as well as protection from wind and moisture, is quite important. Failure to do that will only make you susceptible to hypothermia among other cold-related ailments. One of the safest ways to stay safe in freezing conditions is by dressing up in layers. This has to be done with the help of winter-oriented outfits. In case you are unsure about what to wear hiking in cold weather, you are in for a treat. This article unravels everything you need to know about hiking in cold weather.

Photo from Pexels

Cold weather hiking/camping list

Here are all the accessories you need for cold weather hiking:

i. Winter coat

Now that you are going out in the cold season you should be prepared for rain, snow, and wind. There is no better way of doing that than getting equipped with a good winter jacket or coat. It is vital to find a coat that is designed to protect you against bad weather. Your preferred model has to be long enough, well-insulated, and perfectly fitting. Here are some of our winter coat recommendations:

(a) Arc’teryx Atom SL Hoody Men’s

“The choice for every lover of comfort.”

This is a perfect freezing-weather dress for men who took so much interest in hiking, trekking, or other outdoor events. Arc’teryx Atom SL Hoody Men’s is designed to ensure adequate comfort and coziness while on the road.

Designed with superlight material

Unlike other cold-weather dresses on the shelves, this product is super light. So, you can hike mountains or longer terrains without exhausting them quickly.

Waterproof and Windproof

Arc’teryx Atom SL Hoody Men’s comes in breathable textiles, making it resistant to wind and water.

Leave it or take it; hike lovers would definitely find this dress attractive for all events.

Cons

Non-helmet compatible and pricey

(b) Eddie Bauer Women’s Lodge Down Duffle Coat

“Warm and protective.”

Eddie designs this coat to keep you warm no matter how icy the weather is. Aside from keeping you warm, this dress also ensures your safety while you hike in the thicket. With fleece lining at the collar and upper body, you can be sure that no thorn will come near your body.

Universal Fit Coat

Unlike other coats for frosty periods, this fabric is not too big or too slim. Eddie makes it with the interest of all campers in mind.

Has Polyester Shell

Undoubtedly, a polyester shell is one of the high-quality materials constructed on the shelves. This material helps the coat resist water or moisture. Aside from the polyester shell, it also has StormRepel’s durable water-repellent finish.

You got the perfect coat for all cold winter walks. 

Cons

Not beautifully designed

Not well shaped

Hassle to return

ii. Sports t-shirt

The t-shirt will also form a decent base layer for the upper body. You might need a single long-sleeved pair in the event that it is not so cold. Its fabric should offer unmatched wicking capabilities and breathability. Cotton is obviously a bad choice. Wool or synthetic fabrics are recommended. If temperatures are dangerously low, you may require two tees. Thus, put on the long-sleeved tee first followed by a short-sleeved t-shirt for your base layer. Try these models out:

(a) Icebreaker Merino Men’s Merino Wool T-Shirt

“Men’s choice for the best long-sleeve T-shirt on the road.”

As its name implies, this T-shirt provides enough coziness in icy conditions. With this model, you don’t have to spend extra bucks buying a coat.

Has Merino Wool Layers

The wool layers make the shirt breathable and warm.

Perfect for all Outdoor Sports

You can enjoy hiking, climbing, backpacking, or any other outdoor event.

The design varies from the covered or exposed neck; please check for the most appropriate construction. 

Cons

Only 5% nylon

Not unisex

(b) Smartwool Women’s Sport 150 T-Shirt

“It makes you feel the road’s comfort on roads.”

Like the previous product, this long-sleeve T-shirt is a must-have for people who are always on the road. Its design is suitable for female hikers only. It also protects your hand from thorns and harmful elements.

Features Modern Technology

The induetructawool technology ensures that the T-shirt lasts for a long. Also, shred shield technology makes it comfortable.

Has body-mapped mesh zones

These zones ensure adequate airflow is distributed around your body.

This shirt is available in different designs, so you can pick the model that best suits your taste.

Cons

Too slim

iii. Hiking pants

Rain pants will form the outer shell now that should be dressed in layers. They have to be wind and waterproof. Breathability is another vital attribute of a good pair of rain pants too. In the event that it is extremely chilly, you can have two rain pants on. One that is lighter but water-resistant for insulation and another that is completely waterproof. Here are our recommendations:

(a) Arc’teryx Gamma AR Pant Men’s

“The favorite walking pants for renowned walkers.”

Arc’teryx builds these pants to provide enough warmth and comfort irrespective of your favorite outdoor activity. It is the perfect legging to have on icy or rocky terrains.

Weather Resistant

Aside from frosty weather, this pant is also a perfect fabric to trail in summer. Unlike other models, it has outer layers built to resist water or abrasion.

Multipurpose and Versatile

These hiking pants have a versatile design. As a matter of fact, you can hike, cycle, and snowboard to enjoy any outdoor sport in it.

Ensure you verify the size before purchasing. 

Cons

Has the wrong size description.

(b) prAna Women’s Halle Convertible Pant

“Everyday pants for people who live fully on roads.”

These convertible pants are great outdoor leggings for all weather. While you can have the long pants covering your body in frosty periods, you can easily convert them to a knicker in summer. The nylon and elastane construction makes it unique.

Dries Quick

Since it dries fast, you can easily walk for multiple days.

Versatile

Besides trailing pants, users can also convert the fabric to trousers.

You will love these pants if you are more interested in quality than looks. 

Cons

Has many inaccurate sizes

Too bulky pant

iv. Hiking boots

Hiking boots are a must-have if you are to make the most out of your hike in cold weather. Contrary to ordinary boots, hiking boots boast superior attributes making them ideal for winter. They are waterproof, thick, touchy, and warm on the interior. Strive to acquire boots constructed from leather, Goretex, or a blend of the two for durability. These models will suit you well:

(a) Oboz Men’s Waterproof Hiking Boots

“Hiking boots for all weather!”

These hiking boots keep your feet safe from the elements while you trail to different terrains. It also keeps your feet warm well as offers good ankle support in icy areas. No matter how long you walk in the rain, the boot resists water.

Has Granite Peak Midsole and Outsole

Unlike other hiking boots, this shoe offers stability irrespective of terrain or weather. Likewise, it offers adequate protection and support, especially on rocky grounds.

Has Insulated Top Sheet

The insulated top sheet keeps your foot warm. Likewise, it keeps your toes cozy and comfortable. Rather than releasing the heat out, the hiking boot holds it.

Hikers can always keep their feet and toes warm and safe with this walking shoe. 

Cons

Not ideal for multi-day backpacking

Poorly made b-dry membrane

Not attractive

(b) The North Face Shellista II Mid Snow Boot

“Hiking on snowy grounds becomes fun and comfortable with this boot.”

This is the best boot for all winter events. The North Face boot keeps your feet and toes dry and warm even on snowmelt days. Besides warmth, this snow boot is also comfortable and eye-catching. The shoe is also waterproof and durable.

Has a Streamlined Shell

In contrast to other walking shoes, this book has a streamlined shell. The shell ensures no water penetrates the shoe, no matter how heavy the rain is. Also, it makes the boot breathable.

Water-resistant and Sturdy

The water-resistant feature makes this snow kit one of a kind. You can walk comfortably in snowy areas with your feet warm and dry.

You don’t have to break the bank to trail on snowy grounds. 

Cons

Not perfect for rocky mountains

Scratches and worn out easily

Insulation is not too good

Poorly made

v. Sports underwear

Sports underwear is ideal for the base layer. Now that the base layer keeps the skin dry, you are discouraged from getting underwear made from cotton. Cotton has poor moisture-wicking properties. Nylon, polyester, and other synthetic fabrics are great for underwear. Below are our recommended models:

(a) Thermajane Women’s Thermal Underwear Long Johns

“A must-have for all female hikers in icy campsites.”

This underwear from Thermajane allows you to hike comfortably on all terrains. Unlike other models, it has a 4-way stretch fabric, which is eye-catching and simple to wear. It also comes with special moisture-wicking features.

Has Poly-spandex Materials

These materials make the underwear breathable and comfortable. Likewise, it allows the odor to escape leaving you with odor-free fabric.

Lightweight and Fitting

Even if you have a coat on with this underwear, you can move freely around your campsite. Thermajane designs this fabric to offer extra coziness and warmth.

There are multiple designs to choose your favorite color. 

Cons

Has a poor quality

Ripped quickly

Fade quickly

vi. Hiking socks

A pair of hiking boots may not be sufficient against the unforgiving cold conditions. You need an extra layer of insulation. This is why you should include hiking socks on your list. Break them in a few times on normal day excursions prior to hitting the trail during winter. This pair is incredible for winter:

(a) Alvada Merino Wool Hiking Socks

“A must-have for all outdoor lovers.”

Like any other hiking kit, walking socks are important. As a matter of fact, this model is one of the best trailing socks available today. These socks from Alvada keep your feet safe from blisters.

Designed with high-quality material

On the market today, Alvada construction is the greatest. Aside from the fact that 15% of polyesters make socks, 80% of construction also comes from merino wool. This construction makes the socks breathable and comfortable.

Ultra-Comfortable

If you are searching for walking socks that offer adequate comfort, look no further than this product. This model is also ideal for all sex.

Ensure you pick the right size for better comfort. 

Cons

Produce big holes quickly

Produce unpleasant smell

Not durable

(b) DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Hiking Socks

“Become like top climbers and hikers around the world.”

Unlike the previous model, this model is not only ideal for men and women but also for kids. As long as you are always on the road, you can always have these socks to keep your feet and toes warm and dry. DANISH ENDURANCE designs this product with high-quality merino wool.

Perfect for all Outdoor Events

Whether you want to trek, hike, cycle, or camp, all you need are these durable socks. This product offers adequate coziness for all events.

Tear and Wear Resistant

Irrespective of how long you have these fabrics on, they would never tear or wear. It has superior-quality construction, which makes it sturdy.

One of the budget-friendly hiking socks on the market today. 

Cons

Not 100% merino wool

Not ideal for long treks

Produces holes quickly

vii. Winter Hats

A lot of people forget to cover their heads in cold weather when a lot of warmth is lost from this part in actuality. For elevated insulation, try out a woolly hat or hats made from synthetic fabrics. Here is our recommended model:

(a) Smartwool Unisex Cuffed Beanie

“Complete your adventure with a great beanie.”

Smartwool designs this cuffed beanie to keep your head warm in freezing conditions. Fortunately, this hiking hat is available for both male and female walkers. The beanie design is also eye-catching.

Designed from 100% Merino Wool

Unlike other beanies on shelves, Smartwool made this product from 100% merino wool. This hat ensures that your head is warm and cozy always.

Machine Washable

Hikers would have no difficulties keeping this hat clean. You only need to wash with the instructed ingredient and dry it.

A cost-saving cuffed beanie for all hiking lovers. 

Cons

Too slim and long

Not too warm

viii. Waterproof gloves

As much as some winter coats incorporate hand warmers it is crucial to have your own gloves too. Gloves aid in keeping hands warm. Other than that, the best gloves for cold weather ought to be breathable and waterproof too. You can try out this pair:

(a) OZERO Men’s Winter Thermal Gloves

“Comfortable glove for all cycling games.”

Your cycling kit is incomplete without these thermal gloves from OZERO. This hand cover keeps your hands warm and dry while you ride in chilly conditions. It also comes with a pull-on closure type.

Windproof and Waterproof Fabric

Whether in light rain or heavy snow, this thermal glove keeps your hand warm and dry. It uses the waterproof TPU component to resist water while you cycle around.

Has Sensitive Touch Screen Fingertip Pads

Unlike other gloves for chilly weather, this fabric allows you to operate your smartphones while you have the glove on. This hand cover is ideal for operating your mobile device irrespective of the model.

Most phone-friendly gloves for all chilly cycling events. 

Cons

Poorly made and clunky

Has too many stitches

Tear easily

What do you wear in freezing weather?

It is imperative to dress up accordingly if you are to enjoy some outdoor time. Freezing weather is fatal to your health. It is important to layer up for optimal warmth and insulation. Before looking at what to wear in freezing conditions, let us first discuss different types of layers for improved protection:

I. Baselayer

The base layer which is also referred to as the underwear layer is your first line of defense against cold. It is meant to be closest to the skin. This layer works to keep your skin dry and comfortable by wicking off any sweat. Although you will be venturing into freezing conditions you are still going to sweat. Sweat is likely to get you chilled which could result in hypothermia. Luckily, you have the base layer to handle that. Nylon, polyester, silk, and merino wool are some of the best fabrics for the underwear layer.

(a) Neleus Men’s Baselayer Leggings

“The right tights leggings for all sportsmen.”

Whether in hot or cozy times, Neleus tights leggings are an excellent choice for all outdoor events. Aside from being breathable, these leggings are also comfortable and warm.

Ideal for All Weather Sports

Neleus designs these leggings with the interest of all winter sports in mind. You can always have these pants when you snowboard, cycle, train, or squat.

Made from Non-abrasion Fabric Material

Unlike other leggings, this product comes with outstanding durability and elasticity. The construction also makes the trailing pant moisture-wicking and comfortable.

This pant offers the best sports experience with enough comfort. 

Cons

Poorly made reap pants

Has big waistline

II. Mid layer

Next is the mid-layer which is supposed to insulate your body by retaining radiant heat. Mid-layers incorporate fabrics that are light yet thick enough to curb heat loss. Mid-layers are mainly made from synthetic fabrics. They should be breathable as well.

III. Wind layer

In the event that the insulating layer is excessively breathable, the wind is likely to blow through. Such an occurrence will inhibit insulation. The mid-layer is susceptible to snow and rain as well. This is where a wind layer comes in. Ultralight jackets are perfect in this case. They have to be treated with durable water repellent (DWR) for elevated performance.

IV. Outer shell

If the wind layer is not sufficient, you can throw on an additional layer. You can either go for a soft shell or hard shell depending on the intensity of a storm or adverse weather conditions. Softshells are water-resistant and more breathable. They also allow more freedom in terms of mobility. Hard shells are a little bulky but highly effective in storms or harsh conditions.

How do you stay warm in winter hiking?

Stay hydrated

Adequate hydration is as imperative in cold weather as it is during summer. You are probably wondering how this is true. The thing is, your core temperature is likely to take a nose dive if you get dehydrated. Such an occurrence would expose you to the hypothermia threat. Insufficient fluids in the system also culminate in dizziness and disorientation. Folks tend to drink less water in the cold season as sweating is not very visible. Hence, do not forget to refill your water bottle or hydration bladder before hitting the sack.

Have some snacks

The cold weather pushes your body into burning twice as many calories as it would under normal conditions. It happens as more heat is needed at this time. That is why you need to eat continuously throughout your excursion. Snacks rich in proteins provide more energy and heat.

Layer up

Perhaps this is the most crucial trick in staying warm while hiking in winter. Aside from dressing in layers, pack up extra clothes that you can throw on if it gets too chilly. Nonetheless, layer your clothes in a manner that your body is protected from wind and water. The layering should also take care of sweating by keeping the skin dry. Therefore, you need a base layer to wick away any moisture from the skin. On top of that, you require a mid-layer to keep your body insulated. A wind or outer layer comes in last to keep off wind and water.

Keep your head insulated

Most people forget to cover their heads when hiking in cold weather. The head, like any other part of the body, should be insulated to curb heat loss. Thus, remember to pack up a beanie or hat before hitting the trail.

Go for wool or synthetic fabric

Wool and synthetic fabrics such as polyester boast excellent insulation properties. Besides that, they dry very fast when wet. Avoid cotton fabric as it takes time to dry. This promotes heat loss.

Sleep in a tent

In the event that you plan to spend a night in freezing weather, ensure that you are well-equipped. One of the essentials you need for a comfortable night in the jungle is a tent. As much as you may be layered up sufficiently, protecting yourself from strong winds, snow showers or unexpected rain is vital. That is not all; a tent will provide additional insulation.

Hike in the warmest sunlight

It is wise to hike when the sun is warmest. The sun is warmest at the highest point in the sky. This way you will not have to worry about freezing.

Make hot drinks

Take a hot cup of coffee or any other beverage before leaving home. Likewise, pack up some hot beverages in a thermos that you can sip whenever it gets too cold. Still, bring along a stove or similar equipment with which warm drinks can be prepared. The importance of all this is to warm up your core.

Conclusion

Winter hiking can never go wrong if you prepare fully. Your top priority should be to stay warm, comfortable, and safe throughout your time in the jungle.

The following is a detailed breakdown of more FAQs regarding what to wear in cold weather:

Can you wear snow boots for hiking?

You can wear snow boots for hiking. However, it may be unwise to do when the snow is heavy so. Most snow boots are not well equipped to handle colossal amounts of snow. What you need is a good pair of hiking boots. The thing is, hiking boots are waterproof and stiff which makes heavy snow a piece of cake. Still, hiking boots fit perfectly in addition to keeping the feet warm.

How do you hike in cold weather?

Before setting a course in the freezing outdoors, it is important to dress up appropriately. Dress in layers so as to keep your body warm, dry, and comfortable. Aside from appropriate clothing, you require a great pair of hiking boots. It is also crucial to protect your head, neck, and hands. This is where a hat, scarf, and gloves come in. To top it off, you need a warm drink alongside some snacks.

Which fabric is best for cold weather?

Wool stands out among the best fabrics for cold weather. This fabric is not only warm but also highly breathable and soft. Similarly, wool is water-resistant, super lightweight, and fairly durable.

Where can I backpack in the winter?

It is wise to backpack on climbing or uphill terrains. Winter is characterized by extreme cold. Taking on difficult trails gets your heart to pump fast. This enhances blood circulation making the internal body warm.