How to Layer for Winter Hiking

Winter can reveal a completely new picture of the outdoors, whether you are hiking in the snow or to a ridge where the leaves have fallen and thus reveal a more visible perspective of the land below. However, hiking in the winter can also lead to increased danger from hypothermia. Dressing correctly can help keep you warmer and safer while hiking.

Things You'll Need

  • Base layer-long underwear
  • Insulating layer
  • Toboggan
  • Gloves
  • Scarf or neck gaiter
  • Shell layer
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Instructions

  1. Time to Layer Up

    • 1

      Putting on a synthetic base layer will wick moisture away from your skin and will still retain heat while wet. Synthetics such as nylon or polypropylene are excellent base-layer fabrics. Running tights also work well. If it is in an extreme environment, consider putting on a long-sleeve synthetic shirt as well. (http://www.outdooreyes.com/choosecampingclothes.php3)

    • 2

      Wearing insulating layers help retain air that is heated by your body. Insulating layers can include a fleece, a wool sweater, or down. Remember that if down gets wet, it does not retain heat. Sometimes, you can also find cheap fleece pants at department stores, which are great to have for winter hiking. (http://www.camping4less.com/pilot.asp?pg=clothing_guide)

    • 3

      When you are ready to hike, put on your shell layer. The shell is typically weatherproof, repelling wind and rain. Without a good shell, winter winds can easily sweep away any hot air from the insulating layers. Also, putting on a hat or toboggan that covers the ears will help retain a lot of heat. Gloves that cover the wrists and a scarf or neck gaiter, covering the neck, will cover the major body parts that lose heat when exposed. (http://pinaybackpacker.com/2009/06/backpacking-101-the-proper-way-to-layer-your-clothing-without-hindering-mobility/)

    • 4

      As you are hiking, if you get hot and start sweating, make small adjustments. Take off hat, gloves, or scarf first. If you are still hot, take off the shell layer. It is important while hiking in the winter to reduce the production of moisture (sweat) so that you are able to stay warmer longer.