Do you enjoy hiking but feel limited in the winter? The right gear is crucial to making the most of your winter hike. Depending on your preparation, your experience can either be beautiful and enjoyable or often wet and miserable! Clothing is a huge factor in keeping you comfortable and dry and enjoying your outdoor adventure. In this post, we will go over what to wear for a winter hike!

How to Choose What to Wear? 

Layers, layers, and more layers! Layers are crucial for outdoor activities in the winter. Wearing layers will allow you to choose specific clothing for specific purposes (moisture-wicking clothing closest to your body and waterproof/windproof clothing for your outermost layer) for optimal performance. Depending on your body temperature and outdoor conditions, a sound layering system will allow you to add or remove layers throughout the day. 

Base Layers

Base layers are the layers of clothing that are closest to your body. Even if you tend to run hot, you will want a base layer bottom and top in the winter. Because these layers are closest to your skin, you want a soft material like Merino Wool that won't irritate you while hiking and moving around. You also want a material that is moisture-wicking. Even with colder temperatures, your body will still sweat while you are out exploring, and moisture-wicking clothing will help keep you dry!

• Merino wool is excellent because it is thermoregulating, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant.

Mid-Layer Top

Mid-layers come next. The primary purpose of mid-layers is to provide warmth. A fleece is a common mid-layer because it allows for warmth without being too bulky. You will have additional outer layers, so you want to ensure your mid-layer is lightweight and breathable to maintain your ability to maneuver on trails while providing warmth for colder temperatures. A fleece is perfect for this! 

• Some people prefer a full-zip fleece, so it's easier to take off, while a quarter-zip fleece is another option. Try out both options and figure out what works best for you.

Mid-layer Bottom

For mid-layer bottoms, two popular options are lightweight hiking pants and leggings, depending on your preference. Just ensure they can comfortably fit over your base layers and are made from a durable material that will withstand the elements on a winter hike.

• Many people will wear their mid-layer bottoms as their primary bottoms while hiking, provided the weather allows. Because of this, we like options that can function as an outer layer for good conditions but are still low-profile enough to wear under an outer shell if necessary. 

• Durability is critical for protecting against dirt, mud, snow, and branches you may encounter along the trail. Hiking pants are also typically more water-resistant than leggings and are a great choice, especially in the winter.

• But one of the most important aspects of dressing for a hike is being comfortable, so choose bottoms you feel comfortable in!

Shells and Outer Layers

Your outermost layers should be water-resistant (or waterproof) and durable enough to withstand unpredictable weather, including wind and rain. 

• Even if the weather forecast doesn't call for rain, we always bring a waterproof shell/outer layer and an additional warm layer. When hiking at high elevations, the weather can change quickly, and the last thing you want is to put yourself at risk of getting injured! 

• Waterproof shells and outer layers are great for staying dry and warm. However, they are not typically very breathable, which is another reason you want moisture-wicking base layers to help manage sweat.

We recommend wearing a synthetic or down puffy jacket (outer warm layer) and a waterproof rain jacket (shell). This combination will give you the most protection in the winter. 

Additional Clothing:

- Hat and Gloves

A lot of heat is lost through your head during cold weather, so a hat and gloves are essential to make winter hikes safe and enjoyable.

- Hiking Socks

Hiking socks are just as important as high-quality and comfortable hiking boots. You want hiking socks with targeted cushioning to prevent rubbing or blisters, especially for more intense or longer hikes. Similar to a base layer, you want socks that have moisture-wicking capabilities to help prevent blisters. Merino wool is perfect for this! 

- Hiking Boots

Regardless of the conditions you hike in during the winter, you will want sturdy, high-quality hiking boots. If you are hiking in the snow, consider a high-top boot, which will help protect your ankles and prevent snow from getting into your boots.

Let us know what your favorite winter hikes are!