
How to Layer for Winter Hiking
All outdoor activities involve some risk, but winter hiking requires additional planning to ensure safety and comfort. Proper preparation can mean the difference between an enjoyable adventure and a cold, miserable trek—or worse, a dangerous situation.
Why Layering Matters
During high-energy activities, our bodies generate heat and moisture. However, wet clothing can rapidly accelerate heat loss—our bodies lose heat 240 times faster when wet than when dry. This not only leads to discomfort but also increases the risk of hypothermia.
The key to staying warm and dry is using a strategic layering system that allows you to add or remove clothing as needed. Rather than starting your hike bundled up in everything you’ve brought, ensure your pack has enough space to store extra layers, snacks, and essential accessories. A well-designed backpack with an easy-access storage system makes it easier to adjust layers on the go.
This flexibility prevents overheating and excessive sweating, keeping you comfortable throughout your journey.
Monitoring Your Temperature
As you start hiking, your body generates heat, and you may work up a sweat. To maintain a comfortable temperature, it's important to monitor how warm you’re feeling and adjust layers accordingly. Overheating and excessive sweating can leave you damp and more susceptible to getting cold when you stop moving.
Be sure to take breaks regularly and check in on how you are feeling. If you are on a SNOVAP Winter Hike with us, let your guide know if you are feeling tired or overheating. We are more than happy to stop and take a break with you.
To regulate your temperature effectively:
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Opt for clothing that’s easy to remove, such as jackets with pit zips, hoodies, or half-zips that provide quick ventilation.
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Start slightly cold—if you feel warm at the trailhead, you’ll likely overheat once you begin moving.
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Unzip or remove layers before you sweat excessively to stay dry and comfortable.
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Re-layer during breaks to prevent cooling down too quickly when you stop.
Hoodies, half-zips, and zippered jackets allow for quick adjustments, making them excellent choices for winter hiking.
Now, let's get layering!
The Three Essential Layers for Winter Hiking
1. Base Layer: Moisture Management
Your base layer sits closest to your skin and should be lightweight, moisture-wicking, breathable, and quick-drying. Avoid cotton—it absorbs moisture and dries slowly, making you cold and uncomfortable. Instead, choose synthetic materials or merino wool.
One of our top recommendations is Helly Hansen’s merino wool base layers, known for their exceptional performance and durability. Wool’s natural antimicrobial properties help keep odours at bay, making it a great choice for multi-day adventures. Wool blends, which feel softer against the skin, offer the same warmth and moisture-wicking benefits.
2. Mid Layer: Insulation
The mid layer provides warmth by trapping body heat between your base and outer layers. It should be breathable enough to prevent overheating while still offering insulation. Good mid-layer materials include fleece, wool, and synthetic blends.
For added warmth, an insulation layer like a down puffy jacket or thick fleece can be used when taking breaks or hiking in particularly cold conditions. One of our favourite fleeces in the shop is the O'Neill TRVLR Super Fleece, it offers lots of warmth both on and off the slopes!
3. Outer Layers: Weather Protection
Your outer layer shields you from wind, rain, and snow. Your outer layers are defined by your jacket and snow pants. Both should be waterproof shells that are breathable to prevent moisture buildup inside while keeping external elements out. Alpine ski and snowboard jackets can work well when paired with the right layering system.
Look for a waterproof rating on your jacket and snow pants inside tag:
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Up to 10K: Handles light to average rain for a short time.
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10K - 15K: Suitable for moderate rain over longer durations.
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15K - 20K+: Heavy-duty shells designed for intense rain and wet conditions.
Snow pants provide insulation and waterproofing, keeping your legs warm and dry in deep snow and extreme cold. Choose breathable, waterproof materials like Gore-Tex to prevent overheating while staying protected from the elements.
When to wear snow pants:
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Below -10°C: Extra insulation and wind resistance are beneficial.
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Deep snow conditions: Prevents snow from seeping into base layers and boots.
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Wet and windy weather: Offers additional waterproofing and protection.
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Low activity levels: Helps retain warmth during slower-paced hikes or rest stops.
For milder temperatures (-5°C to -10°C), thermal leggings or softshell pants may be sufficient if they are water-resistant and layered properly.
Accessories: Keeping Extremities Warm
Proper accessories are just as important as your main layers. To protect your hands, head, and face from wind and cold, consider:
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Mittens or gloves: When your hands are cold, the rest of your body is likely to be cold too. Waterproof and insulated options are best! Look for Gore-Tex technology, created from waterproof, windproof, and breathable materials. We recommend the Kombi Waterguard Mittens for everyday wear on the trails.
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Warm socks: Keeping your feet warm is key. If your feet are cold, you’re unlikely to enjoy your time outside.
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Warm boots: Be sure to wear high-quality hiking or winter boots that are comfortable, warm, and waterproof.
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Neck warmers or balaclavas to shield your face from windchill.
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Toques or beanies to keep your head toasty warm.
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Hand and foot warmers: Our Reusable Hot Poc warmers are a great eco-friendly option for keeping hands and feet warm on extra chilly days.
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Sun protection: Even in winter, the sun can be intense, especially with snow glare. Wear UV-protective sunglasses or goggles and apply sunscreen to exposed skin.
Hydration and Nutrition
Staying hydrated is just as important in cold weather as it is during warm conditions. To prevent your water from freezing, use an insulated bottle or carry a Dæhlie Drinkbelt, perfect for both hiking and cross-country skiing on the go! Satisfy your hunger with a hearty breakfast or lunch before embarking on your trek. Also pack high-energy snacks like nuts, protein bars, and dried fruit which all help to maintain body warmth and endurance throughout your hike.
When to Postpone Your Winter Hike
While winter hiking can be an exhilarating experience, certain conditions make it unsafe to venture out. Consider postponing your hike if:
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Temperatures drop below -25°C with wind chill, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
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Blizzard or heavy snowfall warnings are in effect, reducing visibility and making navigation difficult.
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Strong winds (over 40 km/h) can create dangerous wind chills and in extreme cases can cause trees or branches to fall.
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Icy conditions can make trails unsafe to traverse without crampons or microspikes.
Always check the weather forecast, trail conditions, and local advisories before heading out. If conditions seem too dangerous, it’s best to stay inside, reschedule, and plan for a safer day.
Invest in Quality, Sustainable Gear
A responsible adventurer chooses gear built to last, keeping waste out of landfills and saving money in the long run. Investing in durable, high-quality equipment ensures you stay warm and comfortable while enjoying winter’s beauty for years to come.
Ready to gear up with OVAP? Shop our winter hiking essentials now!