Winter Hiking Gear: How to Stay Warm and Dress for Cold Weather

here

This post may include affiliate links, including Amazon Associate links. I may earn money if you click on one at no extra cost to you.

Check out our winter hiking gear guide for everything you should be wearing. Hint: layers, moisture-wicking fabric and thermal gloves, socks and boots to stay warm.

Many hikers think that winter hiking gear has to be extensive and expensive. But it doesn’t have to be. You just need a few key pieces and you’re set to hike in winter or in cold weather.

Read on to see what extra gear and winter hiking clothing you need to stay warm. And the number one thing you need to stay safe which you can buy for less than $10!

You’ll also find out which of your summer hiking equipment you can use in winter — saving you $$$.

The 2 Most Important Things To Know About Winter Hiking Clothing

1)Layering for Winter Hiking

Layering is so important. Even when the temperature is cool, you can work up a sweat. And when you do, you want the option to be able to take a layer off. It’s much better to wear 3 light layers than 1 or 2 heavy ones.

2) Choose Moisture Wicking Fabric When Hiking in Winter

Don’t even think about wearing cotton. When you sweat, it gets wet and your body temperature will drop quickly. Instead, look for moisture-wicking fabric. When you sweat, it wicks the sweat away from you, keeping you warmer.

You can buy man-made moisture-wicking fabrics made of polyester, but my favourite base layer is Merino wool.

This winter hiking gear list assumes that you already own summer hiking gear. That way, you can save $$ by reusing some of your gear by layering it.

If you don’t have summer hiking gear, check out my Day Hiking Packing List here.

Recommended Reading: 18 Best Hiking Leggings to Keep you Comfortable on Your Hike

Recommended Winter Hiking Gear