“Hiking & happiness go hand in hand - or foot in boot.”

Winter Hiking Guidelines

The November hike included a review of the suggested winter gear you should wear for your hikes this winter season. Here is a quick review of what we discussed.

Just Say No to Cotton: The layers close to your skin should be synthetics, silk or merino wool. Cotton does not wick moisture or dry when you perspire and will make you colder.

Socks to be Cold: Abandon the old cotton socks for the proper-weight wool or wool blend  that fits your footwear and allows your toes to move. Free toes will allow you to keep your feet warm.

The Middle Ground: The middle layer should provide an insulation appropriate to the cold and your other gear. Fleece, wool or cotton are all options.

Its not all in your jeans: Once again, cotton bad. It does not allow you to move well, will not shed snow and will remain wet. Try synthetic or wool. Those inexpensive cargo pants with a proper underlayer can do the trick.

Feet, don’t fail me now: Try winter-weight hiking boots for traction and warmth. Depending upon the snow conditions, they can be upgraded with micro-spikes, gaiters or snowshoes as necessary to provide greater traction and/or protection.

The Outer Layer: This is the protective layer that should shed any precipitation you may see and block the wind. Think “parka”.

Accessorize!: Leave the pearls at home. Try headwear, a neck gaiter and handwear that can be altered as you heat up. A balaclava that can come down, mittens with fingerless gloves, and a hat with flaps are very handy. Your 1/4-zip turtlenecks and sweaters can also allow you to cool down during the hike.

Don’t forget your protection: Sunglasses for the sun and snow, lip balm for the lips, sunscreen for exposed skin and of course, a mask.

Just remember:

“There is no bad weather, only bad gear.”