Cold weather clothing is a crucial part of any winter season. Whether the temperatures are mild or extreme, you should dress appropriately. You can face health concerns in both cases without suitable winter wear. Through this guide, I'll take you through extreme winter clothing and related tips. It could prove useful if you live somewhere where the temperatures are extreme. Even if you're planning a winter vacation, it might help. So it's time to get ready and beat the chills this winter season.

Basic Cold Weather Layering

Layering comes in handy when you talk of cold weather clothing. When you prepare for your adventures, always check the weather. In many regions of the world, wind chill is another deciding factor for winter weather. Let's look at the essential layers, one by one: Let's lay out the gear, layer by layer.

Base Layer

    The base layer starts off the winter layering system. It sits closest to your skiing among all three layers. You should wear an excellent moisture-wicking layer as your base. Your base layer should also keep you dry and provide good warmth. People often use the compression fit gear because it doesn't add bulk. If your gear is overly bulky and restrictive, you'll not enjoy winter. You'll spend the whole day fighting with your clothing. You should also ensure that your base layers are durable. It's a bit of an investment, but worth it. You should be able to use your base layers beyond one winter season.

Mid-Layer

The mid-layer is your insulation layer. It should retain your body heat. This layer is probably the most variable depending upon the individual. Sweaters and hoodies are ideal mid-layers for your cold weather clothing. A good flannel button-up shirt would do too. Whatever your favorite mid-layer is, choose good quality natural fabrics. They could be wool, fleece, or flannel. One major drawback to a hood is that it can catch snow. The sky is the limit with this layer. So try different options until you find the most comfortable one.

Outer Layer

The outer layer or shell should always protect you from the weather. This layer is very subject to the conditions and activity. You can use jackets and coats for this piece of cold weather clothing. The coat should be made of good quality. The closures should also be of top quality. You could go in for a heavy-duty plastic zipper for closure. It's a bonus if there's a velcro flap that fastens over the zipper. A down liner is a fantastic option. Goose down is lightweight and incredibly warm as well. Coats with a zip-out liner are an excellent option during winter. This way, you'll have more flexibility with temperature control. It makes the garment more versatile. If you're doing an activity that's going to be harder on your clothes, switch to a heavier fabric.

Snow Pants

    If you're playing with the snow, you need appropriate snowy weather clothing. Snow pants are one such cold weather clothing item. While searching for snow pants, find a pair that's insulated and waterproof. The recommended materials would be polyester, nylon, or a combination of both. Snow pants will help you survive and enjoy the snowy weather. This way, you can have fun while busy with snow fights.

Winter Gloves

    Gloves are crucial for your hand's warmth in winter. There are many options to choose for winter. You could go for leather gloves, touchscreen gloves, or simple winter gloves. Wear warm and protective winter gloves if you plan to spend time outdoors. Look out for features like a nylon outer shell and a polyester lining. You'll ideally want your gloves to be waterproof, windproof, moisture-wicking, and insulated.

Winter Boots and Hiking Boots

Boots can be your best friends during the winter season. Find the right pair of winter boots or hiking boots in the winter market. It can be more difficult than picking out other clothing items. Your boots should fit properly, feel comfortable, have insulating and waterproofing properties. Some recommended materials include a rubber sole and a waterproof membrane or mesh lining. Purchase gaiters to help keep the snow out of your boots. Also, don't hesitate to consider fashionable options for your winter outings. But make sure that you get warmth and comfort in those boots too.

Winter Hats and Balaclavas

Your head also needs to stay safe throughout the peak winter season. You can't go wrong with a woollen winter cap or hat. But there are other options as well. A synthetic hat dries faster, but you might still feel the wind. If you find a hybrid variety, you'll have different forms of protection. Sometimes, a balaclava would be more useful than a cap or beanie. The balaclava can cover more parts of the face in comparison. A woollen balaclava is useful to cover your face and neck as well.

Winter Socks

Your socks are as important as the boots you wear in winter. Look for words like wool, merino wool as a fabric choice for your winter socks. Wool will be a great choice if you want effective use of these socks. Your socks should provide warmth, insulation and wick away moisture. For extra protection, silk sock liners are another moisture-wicking option.

Tips for Cold Weather Clothing

When you plan to shop for winter wear, follow the basics. The basics will help you decide what you need for the weather you're shopping for. So here are some pointers you should consider while buying cold weather clothing:

Merino Wool Is Your Friend

Merino wool is among the popular fabrics for cold weather clothing. It's a form of wool that's extremely warm, comfy, and cozy. You'll find them used a lot to make base layers for winter. After all, it has the necessary winter properties. it wicks sweat away from your body which in turn keeps you dry. The material itself dries quickly and keeps bad odour at bay. It also regulates temperature in a way that never feels too hot or too cold. This wool is thinner and feels super soft as well. So you can wear it next to your skin with ease.

Wear Stylish Items You Can Wear Inside

When it's winter, you don't need to compromise on style for practical reasons. Find something that keeps you warm and looks fantastic too. But among the two, function should always come before fashion. Sometimes, it's nice to have cold weather clothing that feels cozy and looks good. It's valuable when you've to get rid of one or two layers.

Get An Easily Removable Mid Layer

When the temperatures become warm, you should be able to remove layers easily. In this pursuit, an easily removable mid-layer would be very useful. Take a moment to remove your coat and the insulating mid-layer. It often takes a few moments while you wrestle a sweater over your head. So to avoid it, look for something you can take on and off. A ¼ zip or full-zip fleece will help you adjust to varying winter temperatures.

FAQs About Cold Weather Clothing

• How many layers should you wear in cold weather?

As I mentioned before, layering is essential for winter wear. But how many layers would be sufficient for your safety? Many experts suggest between 3-4 layers should be fine. It all depends on the temperature. Start with a base layer like long johns or undershirts. Then, wear your regular clothing such as long-sleeved tee shirts and jeans. Later, add a middle layer. This layer includes fleece and sweaters. Finally, put on a waterproof outer layer to protect you from the elements.

• How can you save on outerwear?

While winter coats can be expensive, you'll need them in intense weather. There are many ways to buy winter clothing at cheaper rates. Many experts agree that you can save a lot by shopping at department stores. Skip the regular racks and spend time in the clearance section. That's where you could get great discounts. Also, try to avoid purchasing any outerwear that's too trendy. Such pieces would be costly for many people. Also, the sad part about trends is that they are short-lived. Invest in a classic design that you can wear for many years together. It should be such that it fits your winter clothing budget.

Important Pointers Regarding Cold Weather Clothing

When you dress in extreme winter clothing, there are some essential pointers. You must ensure that you figure out a way to make your clothes weather-appropriate. Here are some tips to help you in that regard:

1. Layer According to the Activity

The activities you indulge in play a huge role in cold weather clothing. The activity often decides the clothes you need to wear. Thermal clothes are a great pick in temperatures that experience constant drops. It's especially useful if you plan to stay active as you wear it. Consider lightweight thermal clothing if you're outside for a short while.

2. Allow Ventilation

When you think of layered winter clothing, ventilation is also crucial. Humans' sweat could lead to uncomfortable moisture trapped inside winter clothing. Look out for core vents in heavy jackets and coats.

3. Trial Is Crusial

Whenever you shop for extreme winter clothing, trials are crucial. Try it on in person, and this way, you'll know how it fits and feels. Several cold weather clothing experts recommend trying on jackets and coats in person. You should ensure you get into this practice before buying. After all, you wouldn't want to regret shopping for the wrong items. If you purchase online without being familiar with that specific piece, you risk not liking the material, fit, or feel. Whatever you do, ensure that you shop from trusted stores and brands. Quality is more important than quantity. Also, the high pieces for some of these pieces make it like an investment. So, think of the long-term benefits when you buy cold weather clothing. If you like some clothes, assess if it's winter-friendly. Then you should move ahead and try it on. If it ticks all the boxes, go ahead and buy.

Style Essentials for Cold Weather Clothing

Ladies, you can have some fun with your extreme winter clothing too. You must ensure that you follow the simple steps and then play around. You have many options to choose from for a lovely winter outfit. Here are some useful options for your cold weather clothing:

1. Long Sleeve Shirts

Long-sleeved clothing is a crucial addition to any winter wardrobe. And so long sleeve t-shirts and shirts should be an excellent addition to your cold weather clothing. It's one of the most simple and easy ways to stay warm in winter. Long sleeve shirts are also an excellent base for your winter wardrobe. If you don't know where to start, look out for them. Wear them with your favorite skirt or jeans. Or layer one underneath a dress or sweater for some added depth and warmth. You'll also find many ways to style a long-sleeved top.

2. Mock Neck and Turtleneck Sweaters

    Mocknecks and turtlenecks are some more essentials for a woman's extreme winter clothing. These sweaters will be a wonderful addition to your winter wardrobe.

3. Cozy Cardigans

Cardigans would be a nice layering choice for your cold weather clothing. Women's cardigans come in many colours, styles, and lengths. You can easily wear them over a blouse or dress. Cardigans are an easy and comfortable way to add texture and depth.

4. Blazers

    Blazers should feature in every winter wardrobe. You can use them for smart-casual as well as formal outfits. You can use this to add an extra layer to your winter dresses. You can also add a fun element to your usual button-downs and dress pants. A reliable and versatile blazer will give you a professional look. Along with that, it'll also add an extra layer of warmth.

5. Versatile Pullovers

Pullovers can be attractive options for some practical yet stylish looks. It's an easy and simple way to add comfort and style to your wardrobe. Pullovers are also easy to pull off and style compared to other cold weather clothing; You can wear them by themselves or layer them with other tops and cardigans. You'll also find them in many attractive colours and patterns. So look out for options that suit your style. If you find a few, get a handful into your wardrobe.

6. A Versatile Coat

Coats are an absolute must during winter. It's always fun to have coats featuring different colours, textures, and lengths. But look for coats that easily pair with other items in your closet. Finding pieces that are insulated and waterproof. These features will prove to come in handy as the days get colder.

Conclusion

So hopefully, this was some useful information about cold weather clothing. Ladies, you must ensure that you wear the correct winter wear throughout the cold months. You shouldn't take extreme winter clothing lightly. It can cause many health concerns if you don't dress well.   This post was written by Kosha team member - Shawn Mathias