I Completely Botched My First Winter Hike. Here's What I Wish I'd Packed.

I have to admit, I’m no extreme sport guru or an athlete in any sense, butI amtrail-obsessed, especially through the winter months.

Hiking is my way to stay outside, push and increase my limits, and maintain a connection to my body and the earth. I love spring and summer months on the trail in the beautiful PNW where I live, but there’s something especially enchanting about winter hiking.

The catch: gear. When the temps drop and the windchill bites, your winter hiking gear has to be taken more seriously than it does in temperate, pleasant climates. I learned the hard way last winter, specifically when it came to footwear (more on this later). Frozen, wet feet? No bueno.

As you know, here atOutside,we spend thousands of hours field-testing pieces. Here are the winter hiking staples we recommend, from ways to illuminate your path, to the layers and boots that will save you from cold, dark, unpredictable winter conditions.

Winter Hiking Clothing

I still remember the moment I learned my lesson on the importance of layers when hiking in winter. It was in the dead of winter in a tent on a lake near my house, one of the first times I tried outdoor rec in the winter. I thought a basic layer, button up coat, and blanket would be enough, since there wasn’t snow (as if that’s the indicator). It wasn’t, and I ended up retreating to the safety of my car. I now know how crucial it is to keep your core well-insulated to regulate and maintain heat.Base layersare designed to draw out sweat in order to keep your core as dry as possible. The mid layer locks in your body heat. And the outer layer shields against the harsher elements.

For base layers,Outsideeditors love theREI Midweight Long-Sleeve Base Layer Tights($55) and theMidnight Long-Sleeve Base Layer Top($55). My favorite thing about this set is how stretchy the items are. They’re easy to adjust through outer layers, which I find is important while hiking.

For amidlayer, our editors love theOutdoor Research Vigor Grid Fleece Quarter-Zip Pullover($110) that features thermoregulating ActiveTemp™ fabric treatment great for keeping you at the right temp through high-exertion activities. Lastly, I recommend theStio Hometown Downed Hoodie($350) for a jacket. My Stio has keep me warm through many winter hikes, even when the temperatures are hanging around 20 degrees. Mine is a size up so I can fit layers underneath, but you can get it fitted to provide space for an outer layer, which is good for extreme winter weather.

REI Midweight Base Layer Set

Vigor Grid Fleece Quarter-Zip Pullover

Stio Hometown Downed Hooded Jacket

Winter Hiking Footwear

Remember that faux pas I mentioned earlier about finding myself stuck in harsh elements in the wrong shoes? Classic noob mistake that I’ll never make again. Just because a shoe is marketed to hikers, doesn’t mean it’ll survive the wet, icy trails. There are winter hiking boots out there specifically designed to provide critical protection and better traction for hikers. And there are even accessories you can add to your boots, imperative for elevated climbs.

According to our editors, the best winter hiking boot that will do its job through the cold-weather months is theTalus AT UltraDry Hiking Boot(retails for $170; currently discounted to $43). Talus UltraDrys protect the ankles from harsh weather conditions, provide traction with sharp lugs on the soles, and feature materials that keep the feet warm and dry. If you’re going to add a microspike, we recommend throwing in someEXOspikes($75). If you’re planning on a more uphill climb, the most durable trekking poles out there are theDiorite Telescopic Carbon Fiber Poles($190).

Talus AT UltraDry Hiking Boot

Microspikes and Poles

Winter Hiking Accessories

Accessories are just as important as your core items (layers, boots, coat) are. Fickle weather brings in cloudy moments and a less illuminated path. Hiking with a headlamp, no matter which season or weather pattern you’re facing, is vital to your safety. Our editors’ choice is theBioLite Range 300($40). Just under your headlamp should be a multi-season beanie like theTurtle Fur Chelonia 150 Fleece Beanie($22) specifically designed to provide thermal insulation. Pro tip: purchase one in a neon color to help others identify you out on the trail. Keep your hands warm withColumbia’s PowBound gloves($75). If you’re surrounded by snow, all-weather sunglasses are a must. Something likeOmbraz’ Cammina Sunglasses($160) will keep your eyes protected and have a strap to keep them secured to your head as you move.

We can’t forget to highlight a good beginner hiking backpack. Our editors loveThe North Face Vault($70), your everyday, water-resistant bag in which you can throw in some high calorie snacks, a navigation tool, fire starter, and a first-aid kit. And don’t forget an insulated hydration reservoir. Any will do, but we loveCamelbak’s Stowaway 3L bag($$66) that can easily slide into your pack.

BioLite Range 300 Headlamp

Beanie, Gloves, and Glasses

Backpack and Insulated Hydration