Snowball fights and building snowmen; ice skating; skiing and snowboarding; hiking; even dog sledding! Whatever your favorite winter sport, you need warm, waterproof gear that can help you withstand the winter weather.
Check out our “packing list” of unexpected items to ensure you stay warm as you enjoy all the season has to offer.
1. Baselayers.
Upper and lower body baselayers are vital to keeping you warm all day. Base layers should be moisture-wicking to keep sweat away from your skin. And, of course, a classic union suit can add some pizzazz to your winter wardrobe.
2. Waterproof outer layers.
To keep your body warm, you’ve also got to keep environmental moisture out. Fleece-lined waterproof pants and waterproof rain jackets can be worn over your base layers. Both come in multiple colors to match your style and existing gear.
3. Really warm gloves and headgear.
Most people own mittens, gloves, and beanies. You may have found, however, that these items are less than adequate in extreme temperatures. Or, you may have gotten cold hands during a snowball fight as your body heat melted the frozen snow.
Scuba divers face a similar dilemma of being both cold and wet. That’s why products designed for diving can help keep you warm in winter. Three-millimeter diving gloves and diving hoods are sure to keep you warm.
4. Shoe covers.
If you’re an experienced skier or hiker, you likely already own a pair of shoes that keep your feet nice and dry. If you’re experiencing a northern winter for the first time, you may find yourself with “cold feet” due to the breathability of your cloth sneakers. Don’t worry, there’s a product for that. You can pull on a pair of silicone shoe covers over your existing shoes to keep the water out and your feet toasty!
5. Heated Insoles.
We’re not talking Hot Hands here. These electronic heated insoles plug in and charge just like your cell phone. Stick them in your shoes, turn them on using the remote control, and enjoy two to five hours of 131 degrees Fahrenheit.
Our Review Policy
Do we know that these products work? Yes, we do. How? We’ve spent hours personally testing each product or its equivalent.
This article was originally prepared for New England Hospitality.
Learn more about winter travel.
One part Lois Lane, one part Jimmy Olsen, one part Johnboy Walton, and a bit of that Clark Kent secret identity thing thrown in for good measure.
Cara Siera is a freelance writer and photographer with a passion for travel and exotic cuisine. Join Cara, her husband Marc, and one very spoiled German Shepherd on their next great adventure.