Hiking: The importance of layering on winter hikes

While hiking in winter comes with stunning views and clear air, it’s also comes with low temperatures and freezing wind. Layering your clothes keeps you warm and allows you to control your temperature if you start to sweat. Little Si is 4.7 miles with 1,575 feet of elevation, and in December, very cold. 

In The Idiot’s Complete Guide to Hiking and Backpacking, it explains the best way to layer your clothing to keep warm on a winter hike. “Two of the most versatile options for hikers are a long sleeve polypro shirt with a half zip down the chest, and a pair of quick drying, nylon pants. By adjusting the sleeves and zipper, the shirt can help you warm up or cool down. Nylon pants offer durability, water- resistance, and comfort in all kinds of terrain and conditions” (Stevenson 145). The author explains what the order of clothing should be, why they’re helpful, and what they do. A base layer should be a t- shirt, especially one of a thermal or polyester material which wicks away moisture and dries quicker than cotton if wet. Insulating layers are best if they’re wool or fleece, keeping you warmer by trapping your body’s heat. Lastly, an outer layer that is waterproof and blocks wind (Stevenson 144). I followed this for this hike, and it worked out well. 

I wore a Columbia windbreaker which blocked the wind, but also was heavy enough to add a little extra warmth. Underneath, I wore a Helly Hansen half zip pullover with a thermal long sleeve beneath that. Finally, leggings (nylon/ spandex material) made it easy to move around and helped keep my body at a comfortable temperature. I was warm, and able to remove layers if necessary. It was the easiest and I found, the most comfortable option.

 Have you ever been hiking in the winter? If so, what was most helpful for you?

Thanks for reading! 

Stevenson, Jason. The Complete Idiot's Guide to Backpacking and Hiking. Alpha Books, 2010.