Today’s adventure was a total bust (as far as getting to spend an amazing day in nature goes). I thought I could get away with just my snow boots, and I was feeling pretty smug until about a kilometre in when the snow started getting deeper and deeper until it was up to my knees. I made it about two kilometres before I turned around.
On the way back to the trailhead, I realized that I hadn’t just left my snowshoes at home, but I had also forgotten my gloves. Even though it was a beautiful winter day and I had stripped down to a hoodie for most of the trek, I should have packed a pair of mitts just in case.
Not only do I want to be comfortable, but the elements can be dangerous. I clearly needed to brush up on appropriate cold weather apparel. Maybe you want to know what to wear for a winter hike too?
The secret to cold weather success: layering
What does winter-you have in common with Shrek? You’ve both got layers.
The key to a comfortable winter hike is all about how you layer your clothing. Generally, you need three layers: a base layer, a middle layer, and an outer layer. Each layer plays its own important role.
The base layer
The base layer is the innermost layer (the layer that touches your skin). The primary purpose of this layer is moisture control.
Despite being out in the cold, you’re still going to work up a sweat. It is important that this sweat is wicked away because your clothes will stay wet in the cold. You should pick a base layer made of moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or synthetic blends. Stay away from cotton.
Pro-tip: Your base layers shouldn’t feel constricting, but you want them to fit close to your body. A snug fit helps trap heat.
No Gear? No Problem!
If you don’t have fancy long underwear, no worries! You can just wear a regular shirt.
- If you don’t have a long-sleeved shirt: a t-shirt will work just fine
- If you don’t have wool options: avoid cotton and choose something made of a synthetic material like polyester instead
- If your base layer isn’t snug: add something form-fitting like a tank top underneath to hold the heat close to your body
The middle layer
The middle layer acts as the insulation that holds in your body heat.
For optimal warmth, this layer should be made of fleece, down, or a synthetic material. Pick the material based on the activity level:
- Doing a vigorous exercise (like trail running)? Choose fleece because it breathes.
- Something a little more chill? Choose down because it will keep you the warmest.
WARNING: Down is practically useless if it gets wet. It no longer holds heat and becomes just another soggy layer. If you are going for down, make sure you have a good shell to keep you dry.
No gear? No problem!
This one is easy! Just take one or two of your warmest hoodies.
The outer layer
The outer layer (or shell) protects you from the elements (wind, snow, etc.).
Waterproof vs. water-resistant
Water-resistant material will keep you *mostly* dry… but it won’t stop water completely. Water-resistant material loses its efficacy as it becomes more wet: the longer you are out and the severity of the weather can significantly impact its performance.
Water-resistant garments are best for mild rain and snow, or when you are only out for a quick jaunt. These options are often more breathable and easier to move around in.
On the other hand, waterproof means that it blocks water completely. Even the seams and zippers are designed to stop water.
Waterproof pieces are best for heavy rain and snow, and will continue to keep you dry as the day goes on. The downside is that these options can be less breathable and more restrictive.
Pro-tip: Both options have upsides and downsides, but you shouldn’t discount the importance of breathability. Sweating like a sausage in a thick waterproof jacket only to have the clammy layers underneath slowly get colder and cling to your body more? Pass.
Performance in windy conditions
Especially in Alberta, you want to choose a shell that will protect you from the rain/snow AND the wind. The wind chill can make the temperature feel significantly colder, and even more so when you are wet.
Message from the Field Lab: The wind doesn’t actually make the air colder. The wind cuts through the thin layer of warm air that surrounds your body, making you feel colder. Wind chill isn’t the temperature, it is how the temperature feels.
Shopping for the Perfect SheLL? Some features to consider…
Here are some questions that can help you pick the perfect shell. There are no right answers (and the best option for your particular adventure is not always the one with the most features).
- Is there a hood? Is it adjustable?
- Are there underarm zippers, mesh pockets, or any other ventilation features?
- How is the length? Where does the hem fall on your body?
- Are the zippers water-resistant? Is there a flap over the zippers to keep the moisture out?
- Are the arm cuffs adjustable?
- Is it durable or abrasion-resistant?
- Is it packable?
- Does it impact my range of motion? What about with layers underneath?
How to dress the lower body for a winter hike
The same principles apply for the upper and lower body. You still want a…
- Moisture-wicking base layer (e.g., long underwear)
- Insulating middle layer (e.g., fleece pants, insulated hiking pants)
- Protective outer layer (e.g., snow pants)
How to keep your extremities cozy in the cold
Frostbite is no joke. Don’t forget about your heads, hands, and feet!
Keeping your head warm
When it comes to keeping your head warm, make sure to at least pack a toque (even if you don’t think you’ll need it).
Message from the Field Lab: You don’t lose more heat from your head than from the rest of your body because your head is special. You lose more heat from your head because it isn’t bundled up like the rest of your body.
I love neck warmers (neck gaiters) because there is nothing worse than a cool breeze sneaking in under your collar. If it’s going to be really cold and you need maximum coverage, pack a balaclava so that only your eyeballs are exposed.
A note on eyewear…
Some people like to wear snow goggles but I have never worn them. I could imagine them being handy in very strong wind and snow, but I don’t think they are necessary at all.
On the other hand, you’ll definitely want to pack your sunglasses, especially if it is snowy and you are sensitive to glare. The sun reflecting off the snow can be blinding!
Keeping your hands warm
Gloves are a must (even if you don’t end up wearing them). Sometimes a pair of fingered gloves from the Dollar Store is all you need, but sometimes you might want to pack something a little bit warmer. In this case, I would recommend a good pair of waterproof mittens. Your hands will stay warmer if you keep your fingers together (in a mitt) as opposed to separated (in a glove). If you pack both, you have a an option that offers a bit more warmth and an option that offers a bit more dexterity. Plus, you can layer them if it gets really cold!
Keeping your feet warm
Wearing the right socks is really important. (Remember, we are all about breathability!) Choose socks made of merino wool or synthetic material, and avoid cotton. But none of this matters if the snow is melting through your boots, so make sure you are choosing shoes/boots that are both warm and waterproof. If you are worried about water or mud getting into your shoes, try using a pair of gaiters.
Pro-tip: If your toes tend to get cold, pack some hand warmers. Place the hand warmer ON THE TOP of your foot. This will be much more comfortable!
Common mistakes when dressing for a winter hike
Overdressing. If you dress too warm, you’ll sweat. And we know that wet clothes stay wet in the cold and can even freeze. No thanks.
Underdressing. Best case scenario? You have a miserable time. Worst case scenario? You have a miserable time and you get hypothermia.
- How do I avoid this? Layer your clothing so that you can add or remove pieces as you go. If you don’t have backpack space, you can loop the extra clothes through your backpack straps or wear things around your waist.
Under-packing. Having cold, wet feet is the worst. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it puts you at risk of things like frostbite and blisters.
- What is the secret? Take extra socks, gloves, and a toque. Switch them out as necessary. If you are worried about moisture getting into your boots, take a pair of gaiters with you.
Ignoring the wind chill. Nothing bites harder than wind, especially because it cuts through most clothing. If you are wet, your body undergoes accelerated heat loss, putting you at even more risk of hypothermia.
- What should I do? Don’t dress for the air temperature, dress for the temperature with the wind chill factored in. Ensure you are wearing a windproof outer layer and consider taking extra insulation layers.
The adventures don’t have to end when summer does, so get out there and enjoy the crisp weather! I hope this helps you dress for success on your next winter hike. If you’d like more adventure in your inbox, sign up for The Trail Report and get more tips, tricks, and Alberta trails.
