Why Most People Get Winter Hiking Gear Wrong: What to Wear Hiking in Snow Instead
The proper winter clothing is more than just a matter of comfort; it’s essential for staying safe. Frigid temperatures, biting winds, and snow can quickly become dangerous if you don’t dress appropriately. That’s why knowing what to wear when hiking in snow is critical.
Luckily, dressing appropriately for winter hiking isn’t rocket science. With the proper layers and gear, you can fully enjoy the serenity of winter landscapes without worrying about the cold cutting your adventure short.
As a former sun worshiper who can now hike through Glacier National Park comfortably in 10-degree weather, I’ve learned firsthand what proper gear can do for your comfort levels. Let’s explore how to stay warm, dry, and ready for anything winter trails might bring.
Common Mistakes When Choosing What to Wear for Winter Hiking
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when dressing for a winter hike. Here are some of the most common pitfalls to avoid:
- Overdressing vs. Underdressing: Overdressing can lead to sweating and damp layers while underdressing can leave you vulnerable to the cold. A good rule of thumb is to feel slightly chilly at the start of your hike—you’ll warm up as you move.
- Choosing the Wrong Materials: Stick with Merino wool or synthetics for your base and insulating layers.
- Misjudging Weather Conditions: Winter weather can change rapidly. Always check the forecast and prepare for worse conditions than expected. Bring extra insulating layers, gloves, and a hat if temperatures drop or the wind picks up.
- Ignoring Extremities: Fingers, toes, and ears lose heat the fastest. Always wear insulated gloves, thermal socks, and a hat or balaclava to protect these areas.
The Science of Staying Warm While Winter Hiking
Let’s take a short moment to dive into the basics of staying warm while winter hiking.
Hiking in cold weather is all about layering. Staying warm while winter hiking isn’t just about piling on layers—it’s about layering smartly. The right layers create a microclimate around your body, trapping heat to keep you warm while allowing sweat to evaporate. This balance is critical because sweating in cold weather can quickly lead to a chill if moisture gets trapped against your skin. The key is to avoid cotton, which absorbs moisture and holds it against your skin. Instead, choose moisture-wicking fabrics like Merino wool or synthetics (like polyester) for your base layer.
Essential Top Layers for Hiking in Snow
Here’s a rundown of the essential top layers when hiking in snow and recommendations for each layer.
1. Base Layer: Moisture Management
The foundation of any good layering system is your base layer, which sits closest to your skin. This layer’s job is to wick away sweat and keep you dry, so materials like Merino wool or synthetics are your best bet.
For Women:
- High-End Option: Kari Traa Smekker Baselayer – Made from premium Merino wool, this base layer is lightweight, warm, and perfect for winter hikes. Most base layers tend to look utilitarian, but I love that Kari Traa designs stylish base layers that you can wear on their own. We live in a cold mountain town, and in winter, I spend every day in my Kari Traa base layers. The more I wear it, the softer it gets.
- Budget Option: Thermajane Fleece Top – A budget-friendly alternative that offers good moisture-wicking and warmth for winter activities. While Merino wool is the gold standard, a polyester blend is great for anyone looking to save on a baselayer top.
For Men:
- High-End Option: Smartwool Merino 250 Baselayer Top – A top-tier choice, this Merino wool base layer is warm, breathable, and incredibly soft. It’s perfect for cold-weather adventures.
- Budget Option: TSLA Thermal Baselayer – An affordable synthetic base layer that performs well in wicking moisture while offering warmth.
Merino Wool vs Synthetic: Which should you choose?
Merino wool is often the top choice for winter hiking in snow thanks to its natural breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and ability to regulate body temperature. It’s also odor-resistant, making it ideal for longer hikes. However, its high cost can be a barrier for some.
Synthetic materials, like polyester blends, are a more affordable alternative that also wicks moisture and dries quickly, though they lack the breathability and softness of wool. Another drawback of synthetics is their environmental impact—polyester can shed microplastics during washing, which can harm waterways. For those seeking performance and sustainability, Merino wool is worth the investment, but synthetic options remain a solid, budget-friendly choice.
2. Mid Layer Second Top
Depending on how cold it is, I typically put on an extra layer, like a fleece sweater or hoodie. Every person’s body experiences the cold differently, and some need more upper-body protection, while others are fine with just a single base-layer top. Trial and error is your friend here!
- For Women:
- High-End Option: Cotopaxi Bacano Fleece Jacket—This sustainable, vibrant mid-layer is made from recycled materials. It offers warmth and a unique style for winter hiking adventures. I like that it’s a little baggier and can be worn independently.
- Budget Option: Kari Traa Rothe Fleece Jacket—This colorful fleece jacket fits close to the body and offers fantastic warmth and protection from the elements.
- For Men:
- High-End Option: Patagonia R1 Air Fleece Pullover – Lightweight, breathable, and incredibly warm, this fleece is ideal for high-performance winter hiking.
- Budget Option: REI Co-op Trailmade Fleece Jacket – A reliable, affordable fleece that offers solid warmth and comfort on a budget.
3. Insulating Jacket
Building upon the foundation of your first layers, you’ll need to add insulation to trap heat and keep yourself toasty warm. A down or synthetic jacket is the best option for an insulating layer. I prefer a jacket that hits at the hip or just below, so my legs can easily move and traverse different snowscapes. I made the mistake of wearing a long jacket when scrambling through Arches National Park in winter. Never again!
- For Women:
- High-End Option: Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoody – This lightweight down jacket offers an exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, perfect for snowy hiking. It packs down to a small size, so you can always throw it in your day pack if you get too hot.
- Budget Option: REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket – A more affordable insulated jacket with responsibly sourced down that delivers excellent warmth and comfort.
- For Men:
- High-End Option: Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie – A highly durable down jacket made with recycled materials. Its lightweight design makes it perfect for winter hiking conditions where you don’t want extra weight holding you back.
- Budget Option: REI Co-op 65o Down Jacket – A reliable down jacket that provides solid warmth for winter hiking.
Tip: Everyone reacts differently to temperature changes, so it’s important to choose layers that work for you. For example, as someone with a smaller frame, I need a complete jacket. However, since hiking generates body heat, some people may prefer a lighter option, like a down vest, for added comfort without overheating
4. Outer Layer: Weather Protection
The outer layer doesn’t provide the bulk of your warmth; instead, it works to shield you from wind, rain, and snow. This layer is crucial if you’re hiking and dealing with the elements. You can have the coziest, warmest mid-layer and insulating down jacket, but wind and water will cut right through, so you need a protective barrier. Look for waterproof and windproof shells with breathable technology to keep you comfortable. As a safety precaution, we always keep a shell in our daypack.
You’ll also want to be sure to buy one that fits comfortably over your other layers.
- For Women:
- High-End Option: Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket – A luxury item for adventurers, this premium shell will last you for life.
- Budget Option: REI Co-op Trailmade Rain Jacket—While this rain jacket is typically for rainy conditions, it can also be used as a budget alternative shell for simple hiking days in the snow. Windproof and waterproof, it’s a solid choice for protection from the elements.
- For Men:
- High-End Option: Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket – A premium Gore-Tex shell that provides unparalleled weather protection in extreme conditions. They’re ideal for anyone who spends a lot of time in the snow and wants a long-lasting premium product.
- Budget Option: Helly Hansen Seven J Jacket – A waterproof and windproof shell that delivers reliable protection at a reasonable price.
5. Alternative Option: Three-in-One Jacket
This is an add-on that combines layers 3 and 4 into one item of clothing. I first used a three-in-one when I found the Columbia Whirlibird for my son at our local Goodwill and the Columbia Bugaboo for me. What a score! These are essentially jackets that feature a combination of a fleece or down layer and a weatherproof shell. The items are connected but can also be worn separately depending on weather conditions. I love them, and they are a great way to cut costs.
The North Face also offers these style jackets at a more premium price. You can browse their selection here.
Additional Winter Hiking Clothes
Your clothing doesn’t stop at jackets and base layers! Let’s get into what to wear on your legs and your extremities when hiking in the snow.
Base Layer Pants + Waterproof Pants
For your legs, opt for leggings or long johns as your first layer, with a waterproof or water-resistant layer on top. I like the base layer leggings from Free People and Smartwool. On top of that, you’ll want a layer that protects you from the elements and is easy to move around in.
Insulated Pants or Leggings
Alternatively, if it’s not too cold and you won’t be getting wet or contending with the wind, you could opt for only fleece-lined leggings or pants that have water-resistant material. I like the Baleaf Fleece Lined Leggings and the Backcountry Softshell Joggers.
Snow Pants
If you’ll be moving through ungroomed or deeper snow, wear waterproof snow pants. They’ll keep you completely dry as you brush against snow-covered branches or step through drifts, and they add an important layer of insulation against wind and moisture. Often, I ‘ll just wear my snow bib as I find it more comfortable.
Wool Socks
Socks to keep your toes warm are everything! We suggest Darn Tough Socks since they are durable and will last forever. Guaranteed! They stand by their product so much that they’ll send you a new pair if your socks get a hole. If you’re like me and your feet get cold easily, you might want to start with a small base layer sock and then layer on a second sock.
Insulated Winter Boots
You’ll want waterproof shoes with excellent traction and good insulation. I prefer a shoe that rises above the ankle to help keep snow out. We use the Canadian brand Kamik for all our cold-weather boots. They are fantastic and have held up well after years of intense trekking.
Gaiter
Gaiters are waterproof layers you wear over your boots and pants. We use them when we don’t want to wear snow pants but still want to keep snow out of our shoes and pants. It also adds an extra layer of warmth. It’s a great choice if you don’t have snow pants. You can buy women’s gaiters here and men’s gaiters here.
Neck Gaiter
I love my United By Blue neck gaiter when it’s windy or the temperatures are close to or below freezing. While gaiters are worn around the neck, I like to pull mine up over my mouth to make my own personal heating system. You can check out fun gaiter options here.
Beanie
We lose a large percentage of our body heat through our heads, so a hat is a must when figuring out how to dress for winter hiking. I love beanies with plush lining for extra warmth. I’ve tried so many winter hats, and the affordable ones from Britt’s Knits are my favorite.
Gloves
Lastly, cover up those digits of yours with a good pair of cold-weather gloves that are waterproof and shield against the wind. You don’t want flimsy, thin gloves for walking around town. The Switchback Gloves from REI are a solid choice at a mid-range price, and Ozero is great for anyone looking for a budget option.
TIP: If you have Reynaud’s or your hands get cold easily, I would use mittens instead of finger gloves. Mittens will always keep your hands warmer!
Winter Hiking Equipment List
Here are a few extras to consider when making a list of what to wear when hiking in the snow.
Traction Device
Traction devices are a godsend when hiking in tightly packed snow trails and the inevitable icy spots. We use these YakTrax for winter hikes (and walking around town), but you can also opt for Microspikes if you’ll be climbing up rocks and need a more tenacious grip.
Snowshoes
Designed to help you walk on deep snow without sinking, snowshoes distribute your weight and provide traction. It is an excellent option for anyone hiking on trails that are not groomed for winter. The MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes are a reliable option, offering exceptional traction, durability, and easy-to-use bindings, perfect for beginner and intermediate winter hikers.
Hand Warmers
Rechargeable hand warmers you can stash in your jacket are fantastic for anyone whose hands get cold easily.
Trekking Poles
A pair of winter hiking poles is a godsend for stability and keeping yourself upright when walking in snow and icy conditions. Also, they are crucial for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
Checklist of What To Wear Hiking In the Snow
Here’s a quick summary of what you need to wear when hiking in winter conditions.
- Base Layer Wool Shirt
- Mid-Layer Second Shirt (fleece sweater or hoodie)
- Insulating Down Jacket
- Wind and Waterproof Layer (shell)
- Base Layer Bottoms
- Waterproof Bottoms
- Insulated Snowshoes
- Wool Socks
- Beanie
- Neck Gaiter or Balaclava
- Waterproof Gloves
Knowing what to wear hiking in snow ensures you stay warm, dry, and ready to tackle the challenges of cold-weather trails.
Don’t forget to hydrate, fuel your body, and dress for changing weather conditions. With the right approach, you can embrace the magic of winter hiking while staying safe and warm.
So pack your gear, prepare thoroughly, and enjoy your next snowy adventure! Happy trails!
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