List of recommended clothing and gear to wear for winter and cold-weather hiking
- Wicking underwear
- Baselayer top
- Baselayer leggings (longjohns)
- Walking socks
- Midlayer(s)
- Shell trousers
- Shell jacket
- Mountaineering gloves
- Warm hat
- Neck gaiter
- Winter mountaineering boots (H)
- Gaiters
- Ski goggles
- Mountaineering helmet (H)
- Avalanche transceiver (H)
H = Hire locally? (Check availability)
L = Group leader
NOT ALL ITEMS ALWAYS NEEDED!
What to wear for winter hiking and mountaineering
These items would also work for winter hill walking and winter skills courses. Merino or synthetic baselayer top and bottoms are recommended. Tops with short sleeves and/or a neck zip can help you keep cool when working hard. Decent walking socks are a must – go for thicker ones if you get cold feet. A couple of thinner wool or fleece mid layers will help you adjust your temperature. Spare mountaineering gloves are essential. A decent waterproof breathable jacket and trousers are essential for winter hill walking! Don’t forget a warm hat (without a bobble if you need to wear it under a mountaineering helmet). Also, a selection of warm and weatherproof gloves. If you are wearing crampons, it is essential that they fit your footwear. Mountaineering boots provide lots of support, waterproofing and warmth, plus crampon compatibility (good manufacturers include Scarpa and La Sportiva). Gaiters are also a smart move, as they will keep your feet warmer and drier. Finally, ski goggles or sunglasses are useful for UV protection and guarding against windblown snow. A mountaineering helmet is also a sensible addition. If you decide to take an avalanche tranceiver, you should wear it from the start, rather than packing it in your rucksack!
Are you a guest on an Arc Guiding trip?
Check with the guide when deciding what to wear/pack. Choose items from the list depending on the weather, route and type of group.
Ice axes, crampons and famous scenery
Also see:
FAQ
Check the weather and terrain first. You might only need warm layers and boots. But in the mountains, you might need mountaineering clothing and crampon-compatible footwear!