While we are in the thick of winter, I thought it would be a good idea to share our favorite winter gear and how to layer for winter activities. It’s not rocket science, but it is science to stay warm while out in the cold, and it starts with base layers.

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Base Layers

Layering for winter warmth starts with choosing the correct base layer. You want something close to your skin, usually made with some kind of wool. I prefer a merino wool base layer because it wicks sweat away from your skin while keeping you warm. I prefer merino long sleeves and leggings for winter hikes or treks. My favorite merino layers are listed below:

• MTN OPS Merino
• REI Merino

Mid Layer

Your next layer should be a mid-layer. This piece should be focused on warmth. I prefer fleece for this layer, but especially a grid fleece. Grid fleece is a specially designed piece of clothing with a grid pattern. This grid pattern allows excess heat and sweat to be pulled away through the little pockets it creates between the pieces of fleece while you are moving and working, but it traps heat in those same pockets to keep you warm when you stop moving. I have a few of my favorite fleeces below:

• MTN OPS Grid-Fleece
• LL Bean Classic Fleece
• LL Bean Sweater Fleece
• Patagonia Better Sweater

Second Mid Layer

This is your optional layer depending on where you are heading. If it is really cold, you’ll want a puffy down jacket for this layer. This traps your body heat and prevents any from escaping, keeping your core warm. This is essential for regulating your body heat in cold environments. Below you can find some of my favorite puffy mid layers:

• Patagonia Nano Loft
• LL Bean Puffy

Outer Layer

Your next layer should be your outer layer. This layer should be the final piece to your ensemble to keep you warm, and it should be a shell to block wind and rain. This could be as simple as a raincoat or a sturdy, water-repellent shell with a fleece lining. This ideally should have a hood to help block out the elements and keep your head warm. Below are my recommended shell layers:

• Columbia Shell
• North Face Shell

Bonus: Bottom Layers

These layering rules apply not only to your top, but also to your legs! Start with a merino base layer and stack puffy pants on top under a shell layer, or wear a base layer under a pair of heat reflective snow pants like these that I love from Columbia:

• Columbia Snow Pants

I hope this post helps you plan how to layer for winter and to stay warm! Would you add something? Drop a comment below!

We are Grant, Holly & Jude, a travel-and-adventure family bringing you tips and tricks to make your travel easier! Follow us on Instagram at @timbermedia.co or read our blog for more itineraries and tips!