Cold-Weather Hiking Gear Roundup: What I Wear on the Trail
Today I wanted to share with you my go to hiking gear during the cold winter months!No matter the season, layering is key when hiking—but it’s especially important during the cold months. When you first step out of your car on a chilly day, the cold air might make you second-guess your gear choices. Your instinct may be to bundle up in heavy insulated pants and a thick coat. However, once you start hiking and your heart rate rises, those bulky layers can quickly become uncomfortable.
That’s why layering is essential—it allows you to easily add or remove pieces depending on your comfort level and the weather conditions.
Over the years, I’ve built up a collection of winter hiking gear, including trusted favorites I’ve had for years and some new additions. Below, I’ve rounded up my go-to winter hiking essentials, from clothing to backpacking gear.
WHAT I WEAR ON THE TRAIL
I love my Carhartt beanies! They come in great neutral colors and, most importantly, keep my ears nice and warm on cold hikes.
I don’t have the best circulation in my hands, so keeping them warm is always a challenge. I prefer mittens over gloves because they trap heat better, helping my hands stay toasty on the trail.
For my birthday, my husband gifted me these Kühl joggers, and they are amazing! The fleece lining keeps my legs warm, while the lightweight performance material is incredibly soft and comfortable for hiking.
I’ve had this Eddie Bauer jacket for years, and it’s still my favorite piece for winter hikes. It’s lightweight yet warm, making it perfect for layering in changing conditions.
Never underestimate the power of wool socks on the trail! Darn Tough is one of my favorite brands—not only are they warm, but they also add great cushioning for long hikes.
I swear by Outdoor Research gaiters—this brand never disappoints! They help keep snow and debris out of my boots, which is a game-changer in deep snow or muddy conditions.
Oboz is my go-to brand for hiking shoes. They provide excellent stability on rough trails, and I love how supportive they feel on long hikes. I always go up a full size.
A must-have for any winter hiking setup! I always keep a pair in my daypack for icy sections of the trail—they make a huge difference in traction and safety.
My Osprey daypack was another thoughtful gift from my husband. I love the fit and color, but for winter hikes, I sometimes wish it were a little bigger since I carry extra gear. It’s perfect for summer hikes, though!
These trekking poles were a bit of a splurge, but totally worth it! They pack down really well, making them easy to store in my pack.