3 Ways to Stay Comfortable and Warm on Your Cold-Weather Hikes

A winter hike can be spectacular. From incredible sights covered in snow to peaceful trails all to yourself, there’s a lot to love about hitting the trails during the winter. As colder temperatures and rainy and snowy conditions set in around the country in the coming weeks, it’s the perfect time to talk about staying warm and comfortable on the trail.

Why not feel your best while enjoying your next winter hike? There are a few simple steps you can take to get ready for hiking during the coldest months of the year. From planning your layers to packing rain jackets for unexpected weather changes, you can prepare for anything and stay comfortable every step of the way. Here’s how.

1. Layer Strategically

One of the keys to a successful winter hike—or, really, any winter adventure—is layering. Start with a soft, breathable, and comfortable base layer. Choose an option like a merino wool blend t-shirt or long sleeve shirt made with merino wool, polyester, and lycra. You might also consider adding for optimal warmth and function a fleece or merino wool blend bottoms.

Your mid layer is your most versatile layer. It’s the layer that can add additional warmth early on the hike. Then, as you warm up or temperatures rise, it can become your outer layer. Mid layer options include lightweight performance fleece pullovers or half-zips, along with ultralight insulated jackets, like down or synthetic-filled puffers.

If you need an additional layer for your outer layer, your choice will likely come down to the day’s conditions. If you anticipate rain, for example, a rain jacket or shell can be the way to go. For colder conditions, a snow or ski parka is an excellent option. Remember, you want to make sure your outer layer fits over the inner layers without being too tight or restrictive as you churn out the miles on the trail.

2. Keep Your Kit Light and Packable

Packing light for a hike is essential no matter the season. It lets you enjoy a long hike without feeling weighted down or tired by the end. In the winter, keeping each layer light and packable can make it easier to regulate your comfort and warmth. It also makes it easier to carry everything you bring.

Thankfully, high-quality, lightweight hiking gear has become more common. You can easily put together a lightweight and packable kit. For example, a merino wool blend base layer paired with a performance fleece half-zip for the mid layer and an insulated down or synthetic jacket for the outer layer keeps you versatile and agile.

Each layer is light and packable, but together, they still offer serious comfort and warmth. Alternatively, you can bring along lightweight men’s or womens rain jackets built for packability as your outer layer. That way, you can adapt to wet conditions at a moment’s notice and still enjoy your adventure.

3. Leave Room in Your Pack for Those Layers 

With all this talk about layering and packability, don’t forget to leave room in your actual pack for those extra layers. As you shed layers throughout your hike, your pack won’t become too full or leave you feeling weighed down.

It can also be beneficial to pack an extra mid layer, like a pullover or light jacket, in case it’s colder than expected on the trail. Even if you do end up packing an additional mid layer option for your hike, you can leave plenty of room in your pack to hold any layers you were wearing at the trailhead but no longer need for that intense summit push.

With these three tips and the right layers, you’ll be ready to withstand any test natures brings your way on your next cold-weather hike.

About Outdoor Research

The Outdoor Research story started in 1980 when founder Ron Gregg realized there was serious demand for high-quality outdoor gear. That year, he developed a new kind of hiking gaiter—one that could hold up to the rigors of practically any adventure. In 1981, Outdoor Research was officially established. Since then, the brand has continued to innovate with all sorts of versatile outdoor gear and apparel. Today, you can find everything from durable, waterproof women’s and mens rain jackets for even the most demanding wet-weather conditions to sun hoodies built to help keep you cool and protected on the sunniest days. As you prepare for your next adventure in the rain, snow, or sun, turn to Outdoor Research for gear you can count on every season.

Discover reliable gear for all your winter hiking adventures at https://www.outdoorresearch.com/ 

Original Source: https://bit.ly/48Tugo9