Winter can be a challenging time, especially when it comes to figuring out what to wear. I've always struggled with finding the right balance between staying warm and being comfortable. Over the years, I've tried different approaches and learned a lot about layering and choosing the right materials. This guide shares my personal experiences and the solutions I've found to be most effective for staying cozy during the colder months.
I remember one particularly difficult trip. I was constantly battling the cold and felt like I never had the right clothes. The weather was so unpredictable, shifting from mild to freezing in a matter of hours. I realized I needed a better system for managing my winter wardrobe. I needed to know what to wear in winter to be prepared for anything.
I tried a lot of different outfits, from bulky sweaters to heavy coats, but nothing seemed to work perfectly. I'd either overheat indoors or freeze as soon as I stepped outside. It was frustrating to feel so uncomfortable despite all the effort I was putting into my clothing choices. I began researching different strategies and experimenting with various combinations until I found what worked best for me.
The key to staying warm and comfortable in winter, I discovered, is layering. It allows you to adjust your clothing based on the temperature and your activity level. Here’s what I’ve found works best:
For my feet, I always go with hiking boots. They provide good traction and keep my feet dry. And don't forget the extras: a hat and gloves are essential for keeping your head and hands warm. I also like to carry a scarf for extra protection around my neck.
I recently went on a two-week trip and managed to pack everything I needed into a carry-on and a backpack. The secret was layering and choosing versatile items. I brought a Gortex hooded shell, which was perfect for blocking the wind and rain. I also packed a light windbreaker. I could layer these items as needed, depending on the weather. homepage has a variety of outerwear that would be perfect for layering.
For footwear, I opted for gortex low hiking boots and insulated, waterproof neoprene water shoes. The hiking boots were great for exploring, and the water shoes were perfect for wet conditions. I found that having the right footwear made a huge difference in my overall comfort.
I read some advice suggesting that rubber boots (wellies) are essential if you plan to leave the city, but I disagree. Unless you're specifically going somewhere very muddy or wet, I think hiking boots are a better option. They provide more support and are more comfortable for longer walks. And while some might say nobody is hiking in winter, I've found that a good pair of hiking boots is essential for exploring, even in the colder months.
I usually wear whatever trousers I normally wear, plus waterproof overtrousers if it rains. This combination works well for me. And for my top, I just wear a shirt or jumper, depending on the temperature. It's all about keeping it simple and focusing on the layers.
As a photography enthusiast, I often find myself out shooting at sunrise, which can be the coldest part of the day. I'm often standing around rather than moving, so I need to be extra careful about staying warm. That’s when I discovered the importance of a good beanie.