Let it Flow

With the Right Gear You Can Stop Hibernating

Posted on March 4th, 2008 by Stacey

In a previous post I wrote about how wonderful it is to be outside in the winter months (where it’s cold and snowy!) It will not be so wonderful if you do not have the right gear. Thanks to my husband, I do have the right gear. Today I share that information so that you, too, can have a pleasant outdoor winter experience! I’ve broken it down into 3 sections: Footwear, “Under” wear, Outer Wear. This provides information on clothing, rather than specific sports. However, my use of this gear includes hiking and snowshoeing.

WHERE TO BUY?
There are a variety of places including well-known outfitters near me like LL Bean, REI, EMS. But a lot of the clothes you see in the pictures can be found in department stores, sports clothing stores (Sports Authority or Dick’s), and even in places like Wal-Mart. I prefer the outdoor outfitters because of their knowledge.

When it comes to being comfortable in the great outdoors (in any season!) I choose function over fashion - outdoor adventure activities are not fashion shows! I hit the sale rack first because last year’s clothes are often sold at a very discounted price. The difference from year to year in functional outdoor clothing is minimal. This means you can save money on what might otherwise seem like a big financial “investment”. The area where I suggest you do spend extra $ is on shoes.

All information is based on what I own and use for my experiences. Please visit your local retailer for more information on what is best for you!

FOOTWEAR : BOOTS AND SOCKS
I own 3 pairs of boots suitable for a variety of weather and terrain. Your feet carry you on the trails, on the slopes, in your life. Treat them well. While it’s not entirely necessary to spend $150 to $200 on a pair of boots, it is important to get a great pair of boots. Without a well made pair of boots, I guarantee you will be miserable outside in any season (ie, blisters, your feet will be wet). Visit your local specialty retailer for more information on purchasing the right boot for you. (REI, EMS, LL Bean). A few things to consider when buying boots (and these factors will also determine cost!):

Waterproof vs water resistant - I like water proof because it means I’ll stay dry.
Ankle support - if you have weak ankles a low boot may not be appropriate.
What you’re using them for (backpacking, walking/casual hiking) - For backpacking you’ll need a sturdy, heavy boot that will allow you to safely and comfortably carry your pack. For nature walks a low boot may be just fine.

The blue boots below are my winter hiking boots. They are high, for the ankle and snow protection, and rugged. Nothing feminine about these boots. But, they are comfortable, warm and keep me dry. In my opinion, that beats feminine any day. I wear these on snowy hikes and I use them with my snowshoes. Versatile! Made by The North Face and bought at REI.

Low Boots (on the left) - perfect for a casual nature path walk. Not waterproof, though they keep me warm and dry. Not snow/rain boots. No ankle support. Made by Merrell bought at LL Bean.

Backpacking boots (on the right) - These are leather, waterproof, warm, suitable for a variety of terrain and offer enough support to carry up to 20lbs (average) on my back. I wore these when we hiked through the Grand Canyon 5 years ago. Because they are waterproof I can wear these in the snow. Made by ASOLO and available at any of the retailers mentioned above. I will probably have these forever.

No matter the season I wear a soft wool blend (SmartWool) sock with a silk liner underneath. The silk liner keeps my feet dry and helps avoid blisters. I have NEVER had a blister from hiking using this method. Liners might run you $7 to $10 but they are worth it. Socks are probably around the same.

OUTERWEAR: TOP AND BOTTOM
Outerwear protects me from the elements. I almost always dress in layers and NEVER wear cotton. Cotton holds moisture to your body - which in winter could mean hypothermia. I wear a “Tech Wick” or other fabric shirt that whisks moisture away from my body (quick dry). Then I use a 2nd layer either a fleece vest or long sleeve, then my coat(s).

In winter I wear a light, fleece-lined down jacket. It’s warm and wind resistant. It is not big and bulky nor is it water proof.

If it’s raining or snowing, I’ll put my waterproof shell (below) on top to keep me dry. This shell also allows for ventilation under the arm pits which is a great feature on any jacket (allows air to get in when you warm up, but aren’t warm enough to remove the layer entirely).

On the bottom I wear long underwear, a wool blend layer over them. You might notice what looks like white piping on the side - it’s actually a reflector strip. The zipper on the bottom of each pant leg makes it easy to pull these on/off with boots.

If necessary due to snow or rain, I will wear my waterproof pant shell on top of the other two layers. (It’s not uncomfortable, I promise!) The pant shell is great because the zippers allow easy access over boots and other clothes by unzipping all the way up the pant leg.

ADDITIONAL OUTWEAR
I always bring extra - gloves, glove liners, hat, ear band, neck warmer or balaclava (see below, I told you it’s function not fashion!) . I do not like to be cold and would much prefer shedding layers to not having enough layers.

That’s a quick run down with the intent of getting you started - it can be overwhelming to outfit yourself for a new activity! Consider this a starting point, take it to your local retailer for more information and get yourself out of hibernation!