News: Dressing to Play in the Snow

I end up giving this talk so often in the winter, I figured I'd just post it here. I hope you learn something!

Sometimes you don’t need to be fully decked out for an expedition up Mount Everest, but we can always take a few notes from the experts even when we’re dressing just to go out sledding.
 
Starting from the inside out, I always recommend a pair of synthetic long underwear. I usually opt for something lightweight, since I tend to heat up quickly, but if you’re willing to strip layers, you can go heavier.
 
Notice that I didn’t say cotton. STAY AWAY FROM COTTON! Cotton will soak up sweat and snow almost instantly and it will freeze stiff. If will get you cold and keep you that way. If you’re wearing cotton, you need to be changing layers constantly, and that’s no fun in the snow. Stick to synthetics and wool for all winter clothing.
 
I almost always throw a pair of soccer shorts over my long underwear. It offers some wind protection when you shed outer layers, and when I really work up a sweat, I’ll end up in just those shorts and long underwear.
 
Over the synthetics, I tend to layer fleece and wool. If you dress in layers, not only can you strip them away as needed, but each layer offers another place to trap warm air.
 
For socks, I usually opt for a wool/nylon blend. It wicks and insulates, which are the two key things you need in the winter. On a long trek, I might go with a synthetic, silky liner, a vapor barrier liner (often just an actual shopping bag) and a heavy wool sock over the top. This is overkill on a day trip, but if you’re camping, you’ll thank me on that one.
 
On the outside, you’ll want some sort of wind and water-resistant shell. Ski pants, bibs and jackets offer all this in one, but if you’re not doing a bunch of downhill or snowmobiling, it’s easy to overheat in this gear.
 
You’ll also want some nice water-resistant gloves or mittens. Remember: mittens are warmer, as your fingers can help warm each other up. A liner can help here, too.
 
YOU NEED A HAT! Even if you take it off, it’s very easy to warm or cool yourself by just moving your hat. An added scarf, face shield or just a balaclava can bring this to the next level.
 
Boots matter, too. If your feet get wet, your day will be ruined. Wear waterproof, and, if possible, lined boots. Pair them with gaiters to keep snow out. (In the absence of gaiters, a ski pant with elastic around the cuffs will do a fairly good job.)
 
When you’re done outside, have a change of clothes and shoes ready. You don’t want to hang around too long in your outdoor gear. In a heated lodge, you’ll ripen quickly, and no one wants that. Dress smart. Save the jeans and cotton sweatshirt for after your outdoor adventure. Remember: NO COTTON!