Let's Gear Up!
Good gear will completely change your outdoor experience. In Alaska we had a saying: "There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear." We want you to feel comfortable, safe, and prepared so you can maximize your outdoor adventures and have fun out there!
Portage Glacier, Alaska
Winter
Guide to Winter Layering
How to stay warm and dry during wintertime adventures
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Keeping your skin and clothing layers dry is the key to dressing for winter outdoor recreation. Each layer performs an important role in keeping you comfortable. These layers work together in different combinations that can be adjusted for the specific conditions you encounter and your own level of activity.
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Base layer Next-to-skin layer that wicks sweat off your skin. Choose silk, wool, or synthetic.
Mid layer Insulating layer that helps retain your body heat and keeps you warm. Choose wool, synthetic, fleece, or down.
Outer layer Shell that shelters you from the wind, rain, and snow.
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Access the full list of my favorite winter gear!
Disclosure: I only endorse products that I own, love, and think would help you in your outdoor pursuits. If you grab anything mentioned here, I may get a small commission. There is no cost to you. Most links direct you to REI Co-op, a trusted outdoor retailer that’s been a great supporter of The Women’s Adventure Club by lending us gear and helping to promote our events. If you’re looking to shop locally, 3 Rivers Outdoor Company is a fine Pittsburgh outfitter.​
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Layer Smart, Stay Warm: Winter Gear Essentials
Base Layers
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Wicks Moisture: Draws sweat away from your skin to keep you dry.
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Retains Warmth: Holds body heat close to maintain core warmth.
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Foundation Layer: Sets the base for effective, multi-layered insulation.
Mid Layers
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Insulation Layer: Traps body heat, providing warmth without restricting movement during outdoor activities.
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Breathability: Allows moisture from the base layer to escape, preventing dampness that could lead to chills.
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Versatility: Easily adjustable for changing conditions; can be removed or added based on activity level or weather.
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Lightweight Warmth: Designed to provide warmth without bulk, ideal for layering under outer jackets.
Outer Shells
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Weather Protection: Shields against wind, rain, and snow, keeping inner layers dry and insulated.
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Breathability: Allows moisture to escape, preventing sweat buildup that could reduce warmth.
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Durable Barrier: Acts as a tough outer layer that can withstand abrasions and protect against the elements.
Winter Accessories: Finishing Touches for Ultimate Warmth and Performance
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Favorite Day Packs
This is one of the most comfortable packs out there! Several women in our community use this as a daypack and it's the pack I use when I'm hiking on my own.
Pros:
large capacity, excellent back ventilation (good for sweaty summer hikes!), adjustable torso, includes rain cover, plush load-bearing hip belt, works for long day hikes and is large enough for an easy overnight.
Cons:
runs small, on the heavier side
Sizes: XS/S, S/M
Weight: 46-48 oz.
Capacity: 28 liters
Reservoir Compatible: yes
Number of Pockets: 6
Another WAC favorite because of its versatility and comfort. The Mira 22 comes with a 2.5-liter hydration reservoir. The size works well for shorter hikes and/or hikes in warmer weather conditions that don’t require a lot of gear. It has a ventilated tensioned mesh back panel to help keep you cooler with a women’s specific hip belt and shoulder harness. It can be adjusted to different torso lengths so that you can really dial in the fit. I use the 32 L version of this pack when I'm leading hikes for the WAC.
Pros:
2.5 L hydration reservoir included, internal frame distributes weight evenly, mesh back panel allows for airflow, exterior webbing and straps to attach hiking poles and extra gear
Cons:
pricey, weight
Sizes: one size
Weight: 45.9 oz.
Capacity: 22 liters
Reservoir included: yes
Number of Pockets: 4
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This is the daypack that Joe, friend of the WAC and fellow gear junkie, often recommends. He has fitted a lot of packs during his 16 years at REI, so this is a well-researched recommendation! It has a mesh back panel that provides excellent airflow along your back, making it a great choice for our humid summers. It’s also lightweight and sits right up against your body for a streamlined fit. The pack has one big compartment with a drawstring opening that you can stuff your gear into along with a zippered pocket in the lid. It features a handy water bottle pocket on each side as well and a zippered slot for your phone.
Pros:
lightweight, breathable, more affordable
Cons:
no torso adjustment and it comes in only one size. It'll either fit you or it won't.
Sizes: one size
Weight: 32.6 oz.
Capacity: 22 liters
Reservoir compatible: yes
Number of Pockets: 4
Footwear: Peak Performers
Trail Runners
lightweight, versatile, breathable, cooler
Saucony Peregrine 14
These trail runners feature excellent traction, breathability, lightweight, secure fit, and rock plate (increased protection and durability in sole.) Loved for their exceptional comfort and aggressive traction, the Peregrines provide stability and confidence whether you're on a rocky mountain route or muddy forest trail.
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Altra Lone Peak
If you're looking for a roomy toe-box and a more natural feel, this is the trail shoe for you. This most recent iteration of the Lone Peak offers ventilated and reinforced uppers so they feel more durable than previous Lone Peak models and should last for quite a few more miles. I DON'T wear my Altras on hikes with a lot of elevation gain. I find that the roomy toe box causes my toes to move around and get a blister. But many thru-hikers of the AT and PCT swear by these! Footwear is very personal.
