How to Choose Warm Clothes for Hiking in Winter

It's January and it's cold outside, yet you can't wait to get out and go for a hike. You know that once you start hiking you'll start perspiring, even if it is the middle of winter. Don't worry. Choosing the right clothes is easier than you think, and you'll be on the trail in no time.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Cotton socks (several pair)
• Wool socks (several pair)
• Hiking boots
• Long john bottoms
• Long john top
• Flannel or other heavy cotton shirt
• Jeans
• Vest
• Jacket
• Gloves (two pairs)
• Scarf
• Emergency rain poncho
• Backpack
• Plastic sack

1. Watch the weather report before you go, paying special attention to both temperature and any storms in the area. Even if a storm is not supposed to hit the area you've chosen for your winter hike, it's better to be aware of the entire region's weather. After all, it is a forecast and as such is subject to change at any time.
2. Dress in layers, starting with the long johns and cotton socks. Put the wool socks over the cotton pair and continue to dress with jeans and shirt as you would normally. Finish with your hiking boots.
3. Prepare your backpack for the trip by packing the extra socks, poncho and gloves. If it's reasonably warm outside pack your vest too. Make sure you leave room to pack your jacket if you get to war on the trail and add a plastic sack in case you have wet socks or gloves to store during the hike.
4. Delay putting on your jacket and gloves until you are ready to leave. If you're driving to the hiking area, you may want to wait until you're ready to hit the trail before you put these on. The key is to keep perspiration at a minimum until you've actually begun your winter hike.
5. Remember to stay as dry as possible during your hike. If your socks or gloves get wet, stop and change them. Use the plastic sack to hold the moisture away from your dry clothes in the backpack.

Tips & Warnings

• It's always a good idea to include water and matches in your backpack, even if you're only planning on a short hike.
• Whenever possible, choose cotton and wool for hiking clothes as they pull any moisture away from your skin.