It can be difficult to know what to wear when climbing mountains in winter
Winter is a magical season to hike, with beautiful snow landscapes and fewer crowds. However, dressing for winter hiking requires some extra attention to stay warm and comfortable while you’re out on the trail. In this article, we’ll break down what to wear for winter hiking to keep you safe and comfortable, even in harsh conditions.
Photo: On the summit of Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa)
Layering is key for winter hiking, allowing you to regulate your body temperature as you move. A good base layer is the foundation of your layering system. Choose a long-sleeved base layer made from moisture-wicking material, which will draw moisture away from your skin and keep you warm and dry. Choose a lightweight or medium thickness, as you’ll be adding more layers on top. If you’re hiking in dry climates, you can skip this layer and go straight to the outer layer.
Next, add a light fleece over your base layer for extra insulation. You might find yourself hiking in just your base layer and fleece if you need to remove your outer layer, so make sure it’s light enough to allow for movement. For your outer layer, choose a softshell jacket for wind protection or a down jacket for maximum warmth. However, make sure to gauge the temperatures you’re likely to encounter, as a lighter down jacket will suffice for winter and cool summer nights in many areas. If you’re hiking in a place with lots of moisture, top everything off with a waterproof jacket and possibly waterproof trousers. Softshells, down jackets, and fleeces are, at best, water-repellent, so a good waterproof layer is essential to keep you dry.
Hiking pants are another area where your choice will depend on your location and preferences. Look for windproof pants, and if you’re hiking in a moist climate, get a waterproof pair so you don’t have to hike in two pairs of pants. Hiking pants with venting zips that you can open when you get warm are a great way to reduce moisture caused by perspiration. Choose lightweight and breathable fabric that won’t restrict your mobility, and if you’re hiking in high alpine terrain, your ski pants might be the best option.
In colder seasons, you might want to switch from hiking shoes to hiking boots for extra protection from the elements and more stability underfoot. Keep your feet toasty and well-padded in your hiking boots with a good pair of wool socks. Look for socks that come up higher than the top of your hiking boots, and for cold weather protection, you might even go all the way up to your knee with a pair of ski socks. Choose a medium weight, as thick socks might rub, be too warm, or restrict mobility.
Gloves are non-negotiable when it comes to hiking in the winter. Keeping your extremities protected helps to stave off frostbite, and if you’re hiking with poles, gloves will protect your hands from blisters too. Choose gloves that are breathable and windproof or thicker, waterproof gloves for really challenging weather. It can be a good idea to invest in a thinner pair of gloves for active pursuits in cold weather and a really warm pair for the coldest days if you plan to be outdoors a lot this winter.
Lastly, don’t forget to protect your head and eyes. You lose heat through your head, so a hat is a must-have for winter hiking. Look for a hat that covers your ears and is made of warm, breathable material. Sunglasses are also essential to protect your eyes from the glare of the sun on the snow and the wind.
In Conclusion
Winter hiking can be a fantastic experience, but dressing properly is essential to stay warm and comfortable. Layering is key, so choose a base layer made from moisture-wicking material, add a light fleece for extra insulation, and top everything off with Waterproof Clothing.
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