Cold Weather Gear - Protect Yourself From the Elements

Cold Weather Gear - Protect Yourself From the Elements

Cold weather gear can keep you comfortable and protected when you’re tackling a tough adventure.cold weather gear From rugged jackets to warm gloves, you’ll need to be prepared for anything from a trek through a snowstorm to fat biking in the forest. We’ve rounded up the best gear to protect you from the elements, so that you can get out and explore.

One of the most important pieces of cold weather gear is your base layer. A good merino wool blend will wick moisture and move perspiration away from your skin, keeping you cool and dry even when you’re working hard. If you’re planning to hike in a snowstorm, make sure to choose a hooded sweater or long-sleeve shirt with a full hood that will block wind and cold.

If you’re hiking or backpacking, consider adding a pair of insulated pants to your cold-weather gear. Insulated pants help to keep you warm and dry when snow or rain falls, especially when worn with a waterproof outer shell.

Choosing the right pair of boots is crucial for cold-weather hiking and backpacking. Look for a sturdy pair with sturdy grips, and that are rated to withstand abrasion and snow. If you’re going to be out in the snow, you’ll also want a pair of waterproof snow boots with deep lugs.

If your adventure will be in wet conditions, opt for a jacket with a waterproof membrane like GORE-TEX. The GORE-TEX products in this category are some of the best water-resistant gear on the market, and they offer excellent protection for hikers and backpackers. The Patagonia Airshed Pro Pullover is our top-rated coat for hiking in wet conditions, and it is an excellent choice for mountaineering, backpacking or ski touring.

The Fjallraven Nuuk Parka is another top-rated jacket for wet environments, and it features a thick polyamide shell laminated to a waterproof polyurethane membrane. It’s insulated with layers of dense Supreme Microloft synthetic insulation that mimics down to trap warm air and stay warm in wet conditions. This jacket is a bit heavier than other models tested, at nearly 5 lbs (our heaviest), and it’s more expensive, but it delivers excellent weather resistance and comfort.

Gloves and a hat are essential cold-weather accessories, protecting your hands and head from the elements and providing warmth. A pair of lightweight fleece gloves will keep your fingers toasty, while a pair of shell mittens provide extra warmth and insulation for cold and icy conditions. If you have Raynaud’s, consider investing in a pair of insulated gloves with mitten flaps that will let your fingers share warmth.