Tips for Winter Clothing

The most important element to enjoying winter is dressing properly for the weather.  The key to clothing in winter is layers and proper material.

LAYERS, LAYERS, LAYERS!!!!
Layers allow you to regulate your body to the ideal temperature. In winter, overdressing causes perspiration which eventually leads to being cold and, of course, underdressing also leads to being cold...which can potentially cause hypothermia.  Snowshoeing is an activity that requires exertion; therefore it is essential to wear several layers that can be easily added or removed to avoid being cold.  For example: do not wear a heavy parka with only one thin layer underneath.  It means you will either be overheating with the parka on, or too cold with it off.

​MATERIAL
​A second key to dressing properly is the type of material garments are comprised of.  For underlayers, wool is a first choice, followed by synthetics.  Wool is a first choice because it is able to absorb up to 30% of its weight in water without feeling wet.  Both wool and synthetics, such as fleece or polyester, wick away moisture from your skin when dry, making them ideal base layers.  The weight of your base layer will depend on the day's temperature and snow conditions, as well as how physically active you will be.

Outer layers are important to keep snow from being absorbed into your base and mid layers which will leave you wet and cold.  A shell outer layer that is waterproof, windproof, breathable, and has a hood is a great choice.  Pit zips (found under the armpits) are excellent ways to regulate temperature while keeping the snow off your underlayers.

​

Suggested List for Tours

Clothing
Base and Mid Layers

• Light + Mid + Heavyweight:
• ​Long-sleeved long underwear top and bottom comprised of wool or synthetic

Outer Layer

• ​Midweight shell jacket with a hood that is waterproof, windproof, breathable (preferably with pit zips)
• ​Shell pants also waterproof, windproof and breathable with a midweight lining or wool pants
• ​Heavy down or insulated winter jacket for colder temperatures

Extremities

• Hat
• Balaclava and/or neck scarves light to heavyweight
  
• Waterproof mitts with wool or fleece liners​
• Thin gloves (optional for photography)

Footwear

• ​Boots that will fit into snowshoe harnesses, containing proper insulation

​
Gear

• ​Day pack that has adequate back support and ideally a hip belt; with enough room for lunch, extra clothing and water
• ​Camera with spare batteries (the cold drains batteries)​
• Reusable water bottle with a wide mouth