Because winter attire is worn only for a few months, most of us do not keep it readily accessible year round. You probably have your winter gear stored, waiting for the temperatures to drop low enough to pull it out. If not, you might need to buy new winter gear to replace items you’ve outgrown or ones that are no longer in quality condition.
Before you purchase new winter clothes, be sure to understand the importance of dressing in layers for cold weather because some layers require clothes to be made of specific materials to ensure warmth.
Read our post on the three winter layers you need—base, middle, and outer—to learn how they work together to trap body heat.
5 items you need in your closet this winter
- Long underwear, thermals
Long underwear, also referred to as long johns, generally serves as your base layer because it’s the clothing closest to your body. You can find packs that include a long-sleeved shirt and one pair of pants in department stores. Choose one made of merino wool, polyester, or other synthetic fabrics, and avoid cotton-based or silky materials. Cotton absorbs moisture and can make you sweat beneath your clothes, causing you to lose insulation.
- Heavy coat
You need a winter coat that will protect you from wind, rain, snow/sleet, and freezing temperatures. Consider a breathable coat that is waterproof or water-resistant.
Here’s the difference:
- A water-resistant jacket will have an outer coating to allow water to run off, but it will not have taped seams. These coats are usually less expensive than waterproof jackets, and they are better suited for light precipitation.
- A waterproof jacket will have similar qualities to a water-resistant jacket, but it will have taped seams and will withstand heavier precipitation.
- Mittens, gloves, and hats
Keep your extremities warm by purchasing mittens, gloves, and hats. You can avoid frostbite by making sure you have these covered when you’re in extreme temperatures. Watch this video to learn frostbite’s signs and symptoms.
- Socks
No one enjoys cold, wet feet. To keep your toes nice and warm, avoid purchasing socks made from cotton-based materials. Cotton absorbs moisture, causing your feet to become wet and clammy. Purchase socks made of wool, fleece, shearling, and other synthetic materials. These materials will retain insulation if wet.
- Boots
Once you’ve selected the right socks, boots will be next on your list. There are several types you can purchase, including a pac boot, a slip-on boot, or an insulated winter hiking boot. A pac boot has a soft inner lining with an outer waterproof area at the bottom. Slip-on boots are convenient to wear when you’re in a hurry because they do not have laces, but they might not provide the best protection. These boots may or may not have insulation or water-resistant properties. If you’re planning to venture out in cold weather for a long period, you should wear winter hiking boots.
When making your boots purchase, consider the warmth, water resistance, fit and comfort, ease of use, and traction properties.
Check out the posts below to learn more winter safety tips: