Winter Hiking Gear and Clothes Guide
The crisp winter air, the pristine landscapes blanketed in snow, and the serene beauty of a winter hike hold a unique allure for outdoor lovers. While summer trails may beckon with warmth and wildflowers, the winter wilderness offers a magical experience that is both challenging and rewarding.
However, venturing into the cold requires careful preparation, especially when it comes to choosing the right winter hiking clothes and gear. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the essential winter hiking gear, from layering techniques to insulated outerwear, waterproof gear, and accessories. The goal with winter hiking gear is to stay warm, dry, comfortable, and safe. So, gear up, embrace the chill, and get ready to explore the winter wonderland!
Note that this guide is for non-avalanche areas. If you hike somewhere where avalanches are possible, please get the proper training and bring the appropriate avalanche gear.
Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a small percentage of every purchase at no additional cost to you. Read more about my affiliate policy here.
What to Wear Winter Hiking
Layers, Layers, Layers!
When it comes to winter hiking, layering is essential. Layering for winter hiking involves strategically combining base, insulation, and outer layers to regulate body temperature, manage moisture, and provide versatility, ensuring you stay comfortably warm and dry in ever-changing cold weather conditions. You won’t necessarily need to wear all layers at once and sometimes you will. The goal with layers is to stay warm but to also avoid sweating too much, so if you get warm you take layers off and if you get cold you add layers back.
The essential layers for winter hiking are: the moisture-wicking base layer for temperature regulation and sweat management, versatile mid layers like fleeces for added warmth, insulation layers for superior cold protection, and the weather-resistant outer layer for protection against rain, wind, and snow. Collectively, these layers ensure optimal comfort and performance in cold conditions.
Base Layer:
For your base layer, opt for moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or synthetic materials. The beauty of merino wool is that it should still keep you warm even when it gets wet or you sweat. You’ll want a base layer for both your top and bottoms. Some of my favorite base layers are:
Kari Traa has the cutest patterns and colors. My favorite base layers from Kari Traa are the Rose Half-Zip Base Layer Top and Rose High-Waist Base Layer Pants.
Smartwool is a always reliable go-to base layer for tops and bottoms. I highly recommend the Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Crew Base Layer Top (Women’s / Men’s), Classic Thermal Merino Quarter-Zip Base Layer Top (Women’s / Men’s), and Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Bottoms (Women’s / Men’s), which all come in a variety of fun colors.
REI Co-op also offers a great more budget-friendly option for merino wool base layers. I recommend checking out the REI Co-op Merino 185 Long-Sleeve Base Layer Top (Women’s / Men’s) and Merino 185 Base Layer Bottoms (Women’s / Men’s). REI Co-op offers the REI Co-op Midweight Base Layer Tops (Women’s / Men’s) and Bottoms (Women’s / Men’s), which are made of recycled polyester/spandex if you aren’t interested in merino wool.
Mid Layer:
Focus on breathable insulation with mid-layer options like fleeces, providing an extra layer of warmth without sacrificing mobility.
Mid Layer Tops:
Melanzana Micro Grid Hoodie - This is my all-time favorite fleece for year-round hiking. However, it can only be purchased in-store by appointment in Leadville, CO so it’s a little hard to get. But luckily, there are many great very similar alternatives to this fleece, such as this Mountain Hardwear fleece.
Another great fleece option for a mid layer is the Patagonia R1 Pullover (Women’s / Men’s).
Recently, I’ve also been loving the REI Co-op Swiftland Insulated Running Jacket (Women’s / Men’s) as a light mid layer.
For a very light weight fleece, I recommend the Senchi Designs Alpha 60 Hoodie.
Mid Layer Bottoms:
I typically wear my normal hiking pants or leggings as a mid layer bottom. These are some of my favorite bottoms:
prAna Halle Straight Pants II (and the prAna Stretch Zion Pants II for men)
Insulation Layer:
An insulation layer is absolutely essential when it comes to winter hiking. Prioritize insulation with a warm jacket - down jackets are my go-to for superior warmth. Alternatively, consider synthetic alternatives, which will keep you warm even when wet (unlike down).
Down Jackets:
Arc’teryx Cerium Down Hoodie (Women’s / Men’s) - This is my all-time favorite down puffy jacket because it is lightweight and warm. It is technically a down/synthetic mixed jacket, but I consider it down since it is primarily made up of 850-fill power down with synthetic insulation in areas where moisture may build up (such as armpits).
Arc’teryx Thorium Down Hoodie (Women’s / Men’s) - I recently picked up the Thorium Jacket (the shorter version of the Down Hoodie) and I’m loving this jacket for all around winter wear. It is heavier, puffier, and feels more durable than the Cerium. It also is more of a standalone jacket than the Cerium. I would opt for the Cerium if you plan on wearing a shell over it and the Thorium if you are in drier environments that don’t require an outer shell.
For a more budget friendly everyday down jacket, I highly recommend the REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket (Women's / Men’s).
Another great option is the REI Co-op Magma 850 Down Hoodie (Women’s / Men’s). I just started using this jacket and I already love it and I think it will be great for backpacking, too.
Synthetic Jackets:
Enlightened Equipment Torrid Jacket (Custom Women’s / Custom Men’s / In-stock Women’s / In-stock Men’s) - This is a synthetic puffy jacket if you are looking for an alternative to down. I took this on my thruhikes of the John Muir Trail and the Arizona Trail.
Arc'teryx Atom Insulated Hoodie (Women’s / Men’s) - This is a synthetic insulated jacket. It isn’t as warm as the down jackets listed, but is still a good option as an insulation layer for less cold environments.
Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Insulated Hoodie (Women’s / Men’s) - This is a thinner puffy jacket that is not as warm as the other options here, but it is a good insulation layer if it’s not going to be super cold.
Outer Shell:
Complete your winter hiking layer ensemble with a reliable waterproof outer shell, which will provide protection against rain, wind, and snow. The purpose of this layer is to keep both you and your other clothes dry. Here are some of my recommendations:
Outer Shell Jackets:
Outer Shell Pants:
Winter Hiking Footwear
Waterproof boots are essential for winter hikes because they provide a barrier against moisture to keep your feet dry, warm, and comfortable in varying weather conditions. Here are some of my favorite waterproof hiking boots:
Danner Mountain 600 Hiking Boots (Women’s / Men’s) - I wore these on a very rainy trip to Alaska and my feet stayed warm and dry. I find these boots incredibly comfortable.
Columbia Newton Ridge Boots (Women’s / Men’s) - These are more budget-friendly than the first boots and are a great option for winter hiking. These were my first hiking boots when I started hiking again after college and I wore them for several years.
Salomon OUTpulse Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots (Women’s / Men’s) - These Salomon hiking boots are the newest shoes in my hiking boot lineup and I’m really enjoying them. They are incredibly waterproof and lightweight if you’re looking for a lighter option than a leather boot.
Warm Accessories
Ensure to bring along warm accessories for comfort and safety. The following accessories are what I always bring with me on a winter hike:
Hat / Beanie
I always bring a beanie with me when winter hiking to help keep my head and ears warm. Here are some of my favorite winter hats and beanies:
Warm Socks
Wool socks are key for winter hiking because they offer excellent insulation, moisture-wicking properties, and natural warmth, ensuring dry and comfortable feet in cold weather conditions. Always pack an extra pair with you just in case the socks you’re wearing get wet! Trust me, you’ll be thankful you have an extra pair when the time comes. My favorite wool socks are the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks (Women’s / Men’s). Another option you might want to consider if you are going to be in very wet conditions are Sealskinz Waterproof Socks.
Gloves
Warm gloves are essential for winter hikes. I never leave my house without gloves in the winter because my fingers get cold fast. The Outdoor Research Vigor Heavyweight Sensor Gloves (Women’s / Men’s) have been my go-to hiking gloves for years now. For colder and wetter conditions, I’ve been opting for my Black Diamond Mercury Mittens (Women’s / Men’s), which also double as my skiing mittens. These mittens are extremely warm and keep my hands very dry.
Neck Gaiter
Or more commonly referred to as a “Buff”. A neck gaiter/buff is worn around your neck and face, having the ability to pull it up over your nose, if necessary. It is crucial for winter adventures because it protects your neck and face from the wind and cold. A balaclava is another option. Here are some of my favorites:
Hand and Toe Warmers
I also recommend taking along hand warmers and toe warmers to insert into your gloves or shoes for extra warmth. I always carry extra in my backpack just in case it is colder than expected or in case of an emergency.
Winter Hiking Gear Essentials
Winter hiking presents unique challenges such as reduced visibility, unpredictable weather conditions, and potential hazards like snow-covered trails or avalanches, heightening the importance of proper gear. In colder temperatures, getting lost or facing an emergency situation becomes riskier, which is why it is super important to have reliable navigation tools, communication devices, and safety equipment to ensure you can navigate confidently and respond effectively to unforeseen circumstances. Ensuring you have the right gear, including water, food, traction, and other essentials, is crucial for winter hiking. The following are my winter hiking gear essentials:
Trekking Poles
Trekking poles are vital for winter hikes, providing stability, balance, and enhanced safety on icy or uneven terrain, while also reducing strain on joints and muscles. Hiking in snow and on ice is hard, but using trekking poles will help you stay balanced. Be sure to use the snow baskets on your trekking poles, as these will prevent your poles from getting stuck and sinking all the way down in the snow. The REI Co-op Flash Carbon Compact Trekking Poles with the REI Co-op Trekking Pole Snow Baskets is a great option. For a more budget setup, check out the Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles.
Traction
The type of traction you might need really depends on the conditions of the hike. Hiking on snow and ice can be hard and dangerous if you don’t have the proper traction. For icy conditions or super packed in snow that is slippery, I always wear my Kahtoola MICROspikes. For deep snow, I use my L.L.Bean Winter Walker Snowshoes (Women’s / Men’s), which help prevent you from sinking super far into the snow.
If you’re doing more serious mountaineering, crampons might be necessary (these have much bigger spikes). You might also want to consider bringing an ice axe for winter hiking in steep or icy terrain, which you can use to self arrest (stop yourself from sliding off the mountain), but ensure you use it with a leash and understand proper techniques to maximize its effectiveness because it won’t save you if you don’t know how to use it correctly. I recommend reading this article to learn more about ice axes.
Sun Protection
I can’t emphasize enough that even though it is winter, sun protection is even more important now than summer. I’ve gotten my worst sun burns and also eye pain due to snow glare and not having proper sun protection in snowy environments. Snow glare is caused by sunlight reflecting off snow, creating intense brightness and intensifying UV exposure. The glare can strain your eyes, obscure your vision, and give you sun burn. I always make sure to bring sunscreen and to wear polarized sunglasses (Goodr sunglasses are my go-tos)!
Emergency Beacon
I always take a satellite communicator/emergency device on winter hikes. These devices allow you to send messages, track your location, and have an SOS button that you can use to contact search and rescue if there is an emergency. My go-to satellite communicator is the Garmin inReach Mini.
Headlamp
Even if I’m not doing a sunrise or sunset hike, I always bring a headlamp winter hiking. Hiking in snow is slower and the days are shorter meaning if your hike ends up taking longer than expected, you may find yourself hiking in the dark. A headlamp is crucial to always keep with you in your pack. My current go-to headlamp is the Petzl Actik Core Headlamp.
First Aid Kit
I always take a small first aid kit with me, just in case. Even if I just get a small cut, having bandaids and antiseptic on hand is super handy and can help it heal faster. Typically, I make my own first aid kit consisting of a little bag of all the essentials. If you are unsure what to include in your first aid kit, I recommend the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .5 Medical Kit or the HART Outdoor Day Hike First-Aid Kit. A couple extra items I always bring are Leukotape and KT Tape, to help with blisters and more.
Navigation Tools
Having proper navigation tools is essential when winter hiking, especially if the trails are snow-covered. Sometimes the trail can be hard to find, so having a map and compass helps you avoid getting lost in winter conditions. I typically use the AllTrails app on my phone and I pay for an annual subscription that allows me to download maps offline, so when I’m hiking I don’t have to worry if I don’t have cell phone service. Sometimes I’ll also bring paper maps with me. If you do opt to only take paper maps, I recommend learning how to use a compass to navigate.
Portable Charger / Backup Battery
When it’s cold out I find my phone dies way faster, so I always bring a portable charger on winter hikes, especially when I’m relying on maps on my phone. This is currently my go-to portable battery. Make sure to bring the necessary charging cords for the electronic devices you bring, such as a USB-C to USB-C cord, iPhone cord, or micro-USB cord.
Water
As with any hike, taking plenty of water is essential! Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining energy levels and regulating body temperature. Hiking in snow can be very tiring, so make sure to bring enough water. I always carry my water in a Nalgene water bottle on day hikes. One thing to consider is that your water might freeze if it’s super cold out, so I recommend keeping your water inside your pack. Another idea is that you could instead use an insulated water bottle, such as a Hydro Flask Water Bottle, which might help keep your water warmer if you warm it up a bit before leaving for your hike.
Snacks
Don’t forget the snacks! Depending on how long your hike is, you’ll likely get hungry. Even on shorter hikes, I like to bring snacks just in case I stay out there longer than I originally planned. I also like to keep extra food in the car for when I’m done with the hike. Hiking involves a lot of exercise and you burn a lot of calories, so make sure to bring enough food. Some of my favorite snacks are granola bars, energy chews, oat bars, and peanut butter cups! This blog post breaks out some of my favorite foods to eat when hiking.
Backpack
Last but not least, you need a backpack to carry everything in, including all your layers! My go-to day hiking backpack is the Osprey Hikelite 18 (which also comes in a 26L version). I love that it has a built-in rain cover, so I never have to worry about my gear getting wet if it starts snowing or raining. It also has a spot for a water bladder, if that is something you like to use. Some other good daypack options include the REI Co-op Flash Pack Collection, the Gregory Nano 18 H2O Hydration Pack, and the Osprey Tempest 20 Pack. To ensure all your gear stays dry, you may want to consider bringing a waterproof pack cover, such as the Osprey UltraLight Pack Raincover, if your pack doesn’t come with a built-in cover.
Additional Safety Tips for Winter Hiking:
Always bring the Ten Essentials.
Stay Warm and Dry: It is essential to stay warm and dry to try to prevent hypothermia.
Know your limits: Be aware of your fitness level and the potential risks associated with winter conditions.
Read Trail Reports: In the winter, it is important to read trail reports before heading out. It is important to check for both road and trail conditions to confirm if it is safe to drive to the trailhead and what sort of gear you might need for hiking, such as snowshoes or spikes. My main trail status source is AllTrails to check for recent trip reports.
Avalanche Awareness: Check avalanche forecasts and be cautious in areas prone to avalanches. If hiking in the mountains, it is extremely important to remember avalanche safety when there is snow. Avalanche conditions in Washington State can be checked out at NWAC.us, and similarly, in Colorado can be checked on the Colorado Avalanche Information Center’s website. I recommend taking an Avalanche Safety Class to learn avalanche safety. If there is any risk of avalanche, I usually don’t go hiking.
Inform Others: Share your hiking plans with someone and check weather conditions before heading out.
Final Thoughts
From layering essentials that keep you warm to navigation tools, traction devices, safety gear, and more, gearing up for winter hikes with the right equipment is not just a matter of comfort but a crucial element for safety and enjoyment. Elevate your winter hiking experience by investing in quality gear, ensuring you're well-prepared to embrace the beauty of the season while prioritizing safety and comfort on the trails. So, gear up, embrace the chill, and go have some winter fun!
As always, please follow the Leave No Trace Principles to help preserve and protect our beautiful trails and environment!
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