Next to the skin: Your base layer should wick sweat away from your body
to keep your skin dry. Cotton should not be used - save your t-shirts for other
purposes. Good long underwear pieces are appropriate made from fabrics such as
Thermion, polypropylene, Thermax, Thinsulate, and silk.
Insulating
layer: This layer will keep you warm
and can be shed once you warm up. Wool, fleece, pile, down in a jacket, shirt
or vest.
Outer
layer: To protect you from the
elements, a windproof and water resistant jacket. It should be worn loosely.
Pants: If the weather is frigid, long underwear bottoms or
tights underneath another pair of pants will keep you warm. Cotton and denim should be avoided.
Running pants or running tights made of synthetics that wick moisture will keep
you more comfortable in rain and snow.
A
Change of Clothes: If your walking
route is away from home, bring along a set of warm and dry clothes to slip into
immediately after walking to keep from getting chilled by wet walking clothes.
Hat: A hat is essential to keeping your body heat from
escaping, as well as shedding rain. A polar fleece hat with ear covering is my
ideal winter headgear.
Earband: For those whose ears get cold, earbands are the
answer.
Gloves
or mittens: Mittens will keep your
hands the warmest as the fingers work together to build up warmth. Look for
windproof mittens.
Water
bottle: You need water in winter as
much as in summer, and drinking fountains may be turned off. Bring water along
to stay hydrated.
Scarf,
neck gaiter, ski mask: Having a
scarf or similar item along to wrap around your neck when the wind turns brutal
can save your walking comfort.
Sunscreen
and lip protector: The earth is
closer to the sun in December - February, protect your skin. Lips and face can
chap without protection.
Umbrella:
These are known to prevent rain when
carried along on your walk. Buy a very lightweight, collapsible umbrella to
carry along.
Waterproof shoes or
boots: If your walking is wet or
snowy, invest in a pair of waterproof walking or hiking shoes. Many companies
including Nike and New Balance have lightweight styles to keep you dry. Coating
shoes with a water repellent fabric treatments is another option.
Traction: Don't wear slick soled shoes if there will be wet or
snowy pavement. For icy conditions, see Stabilicers, YakTrax or Ice Walker
slip-on cleats.
Socks: Switch to heavier socks or wear two pairs for more
insulation. Test your socks with your chosen shoes to make sure there is still
room for your toes to wiggle.