How To Dress for Outdoors Activities in Cold Weather

Winter sports present a unique challenge: You’ve somehow got to balance the temperature with your activity level, making sure you don’t overheat as your body warms with activity. Sweating in freezing temperatures is a dangerous proposition, and one that can lead to discomfort at the very least and hypothermia at the worst.

To get it right, make sure you wear layers that are easily removable as you warm up. You might start your activity — be it cross-country skiing, hiking or sledding — with several layers and then remove them as you move around.

Make sure those layers are made of quick-dry material or wool rather than cotton. By choosing a base layer constructed of wool or synthetic quick-dry polyester, you’ll ensure sweat doesn’t soak in and make you cold when you stop moving. Your outer layers should be made of highly breathable material, like fleece and a breathable shell.

Another tip is to start out your activity on the cold side of comfortable. If you’re just slightly chilly, you’ll avoid overheating once you start moving. However, it’s always a good idea to pack a warmer layer that is easily accessible for when you stop moving; this way, you’ll be comfortable no matter what.