I’ve appreciated lately people sharing their winter gear setups and thought I’d share mine for my hike today. I hiked about 6.5 miles today on a nearby trail with three others. Great group, fun, relaxed hike! A 10-15F day, no real wind in the trees, so very comfortable hiking temperature. We have had mostly sub zero F temps lately so it feels lovely out now! Always nice when it warms up.
I wore merino underclothes, merino wool Icebreaker baselayers and Darn tough wool socks (not pictured). I used my Keen non-waterproof mid hiking boots, not insulated, with grippers. My feet don’t get cold when moving at these temps so the wool socks are sufficient. For subzero I switch to Salomon toundra boots.
Next layer was a cheapo 1/4 zip fleece, and x-country ski pants. Top layer was a nylon shell by Wintergreen, which I absolutely love, has a big kangaroo pocket, a zippered pocket, and a hood. Plus it has a big side zip so I can add a layer underneath without removing the shell. I wore a wool headband, a fleece neck gaiter and lightweight gloves. I actually removed the gloves for part of the hike, heading uphill.
I donned an Enlightened Equipment puffy toward the end of the hike, when I was sweaty and starting to get chilled. I had a backup pair of down mittens and dry neck gaiter, not needed for this short hike. I hate cold hands, so I always bring the mittens! I used a Nalgene inside a wool sock upside down to keep the water from freezing. I also use a little “purse” with a strap around my neck; this goes between my layers and keeps my phone warm. I also have a couple of hand warmers in it just in case but rarely use them. For colder weather I change it all up quite a bit.
What do you wear for 10F?
