Cold Weather Gear Essentials

A cold-weather wardrobe starts with warm, weatherproof layers that allow perspiration to escape while trapping body heat.cold weather gear A quality winter jacket or parka, insulated pants and socks are essential. Gloves and hats are also crucial—not only to keep your head and ears toasty, but to prevent your body’s natural sweat to escape and cool you down. Lastly, a good pair of boots are vital in snowy conditions to prevent your feet from getting wet and freezing.

Experts recommend a system of layering—which helps you control your body temperature by adding or shedding layers as needed.cold weather gear When you start to feel too hot, simply shed a layer; when you feel cold, add one. This layering strategy works especially well for outdoor activities, as it allows you to maintain a higher level of performance without getting overheated or cold and wet, which can be very dangerous in extreme conditions.

If you’re tackling a frigid Arctic environment, opt for a highly-insulated jacket like the Canada Goose Expedition Parka Heritage.cold weather gear This men’s model earned top marks in our testing, offering serious protection against cold weather with 625-fill down and a weatherproof shell that can be worn by itself or over another layer. A removable hood holds warmth close around your face, and the parka can be cinched at the waist to keep out wind.

On less severe occasions, a high-quality, down-filled puffer is just as appropriate.cold weather gear The REI Co-op Coldfront Down Hoodie is a great choice, blending comfort with practical features for outdoor adventuring in moderate winter conditions. The hip-length coat is made with a mix of durable, weather-ready VerticalX ECO synthetic insulation at the shoulders and cuffs and 700-fill-power down everywhere else. It has a sleek fit that hits right at the hip to prevent cold air from creeping up your legs, plus fleece-lined hand pockets and snug-fitting cuff gaiters for added insulation.

Most of the jackets we tested for this article used down fill, which is considered lighter, more compressible and warmer than most synthetic options. However, a few—such as the REI Co-op Whirlibird IV—use synthetic fiber for warmth and moisture management. Down is a best bet for cold, dry conditions, while synthetic fill—like that found in the Arc'teryx Therme Parka—is a solid alternative for wet climates.

The base layer is an often-overlooked component of a cold weather outfit, but it’s arguably the most important part of your layering system. Most experts agree that you should use a wool v-neck sweater or fleece as your first layer in cold weather. Then, add a windproof, waterproof outer shell over your base layer and finish with a softshell or hardshell depending on the weather and activity you plan on doing.

When it comes to accessories for cold-weather outfits, gloves and mittens are the most critical pieces of gear to consider. The Polartec Power Stretch Gloves are perfect for most low- to medium-intensity activities, such as running, and are designed to be thin and lightweight so you don’t overheat or feel bulky. The same goes for a soft beanie, which is another key accessory to help seal out cold air. Carhartt’s knit cuffed beanie is a top-rated option that keeps your head toasty without overheating or being too tight.