How to Dress for the Cold Weather - Montana Living
Are you wondering how to dress for cold weather? Hopefully, I can help break it down for you. Whether you’re planning a short visit or a move to a cold weather location, you will need to know some basics for staying warm. I live in Northwestern Montana where Winter temps typically fall between -5-35 degrees. If you are anticipating even colder temps you may want to add on the optional items listed below as well. (I don’t need them in this part of Montana.)
If you prefer to watch a video of me demonstrating the items click here.
Dressing for Cold Weather - Montana Living
Let me show you the clothes I wear to stay warm in Montana and even enjoy the snowy outdoors. The clothes I’m showing today are practical and functional, not trendy, but you can adjust the concepts as needed for your fashion needs and budget. If you have additional recommendations or further questions feel free to leave a comment below.
The clothes I’m showing today are practical and functional, not trendy, but you can adjust the concepts as needed for your fashion needs and budget.
So, there are basically two cold weather needs, daily Winter wear and outdoor Winter sportswear. I will go through both below beginning with daily necessities before moving on to additional items you may want for skiing, snow shoeing, snowboarding, sledding, etc.
Daily Items
The key components to staying warm when running errands in Winter involve having the right coat, hat, and footwear. If you find that is not enough, you may need to add a base layer. More traditionally known as long johns, but updated and more commonly found on any sporting goods website by searching base layers. They typically come in lightweight and midweight options. The secret to a good base layer is the material (moisture wicking) so if sporting store prices are a bit high for you, find a similar product at a more affordable store near you.
Coats
My favorite Winter weather coats are thick, cozy, and warm. You’ll know you’ve found the right one if it feels like wrapping up in your favorite comforter. And, your coat needs to be comfortable going over sweaters, sweatshirts, and the like, so don’t go too form fitted here.
Your coat needs to be comfortable going over sweaters, sweatshirts, and the like, so don’t go too form fitted here.
Pictured below you will see 3 coats. The coat on the left is adorable, dressy, classic, and I love it. BUT….it is a poor choice for Winter. It makes a great Fall and Spring option, and I can even get away with it on a rogue 40 degree Winter Montana day, however leave this one on the shelf for another occasion. If you need to look professional in Winter, I do believe you can find similar styles that are “insulated”. But, they are difficult to come by and be prepared to pay a high price when you find the right one.
Dressing for Cold Weather - Coats - Montana Living
The coat in the center is quite heavy and thick. It goes down to my thighs and is my typical Winter errand go-to coat. I don’t generally use the hoods on coats, but instead opt for beanies of various kinds. Beanies stay put, are much warmer and, in my opinion, a lot cuter.
The coat on the right is an Eddie Bauer down coat. It was expensive, but it truly feels like wrapping up in a comforter. This is my favorite coat for my daily Winter walks. It goes down to just above my knees, keeping my thighs and butt warm as well. This one is also a great option when the winds are blowing.
Must Haves
A thick and cozy multi-purpose coat
Optional
A thick and cozy longer coat for walks or lengthy time periods spent outdoors
An “insulated” pea coat or similar style for professional needs
Footwear
My footwear begins with super warm tall wool socks. They come up mid calf not to my knees. These are great because my Winter boots come up just past my socks. Not all boots are created equal. You want a pair with lining or insulation of some sort.
Not all boots are created equal. You want a pair with lining or insulation of some sort.
My husband has some very expensive L.L. Bean boots, but they don’t do anything to keep him warm in Winter. The classic look L.L. Bean boots are great, but they are designed to keep rain out and are not insulated for snow.
Dressing for Cold Weather - Boots & Mittens - Montana Living
My favorites are a lightweight pair of Sorel boots. They are perfect for my walks, but my feet do get cold in them when standing still for long periods of time. If standing still outdoors will be a common occurrence for you, I recommend getting the heavier duty Sorel boots or something similar. They are clunkier and not as stylish but made for more warmth. Because I’m not often standing still, I simply add a pair of toe warmers to the top of my socks, as needed, before putting my boots on. And, for my daily walks I often add a pair of boot cleats to the bottom of my boots to keep from slipping on ice or snow.
And, for my daily walks I often add a pair of boot cleats to the bottom of my boots to keep from slipping on ice or snow.
Must Haves
Tall Wool Socks
Insulated or Lined Boots that come up to at least mid-calf
Optional
Toe Warmers
Heavy Duty Insulated Boots
Boot Cleats
Headwear
Because our heads and face are more sensitive to temperature, it’s important to take proper care. While my Winter coats usually have hats attached, I feel that they fall short of my expectations. They slip off easily and allow wind to circulate around my head. Instead, I opt for a beanie. Beanies come in many styles and fit tightly to avoid slipping. Alternatively, you could choose a Winter headband or ear muffs if you don’t want to smash your hair. You may also want to add a scarf. I typically don't need one, however if it's a windy day a scarf will add extra protection to your neck and face.
Must Haves
Hat or muffs
Optional
Scarf
Dressing for Cold Weather - Hats and Scarves - Montana Living
Tops & Pants
Sweatshirts and sweaters are key here. Choose accordingly depending on your style. I have a large selection of both. Lined flannels are another great option. Regarding pants, a pair of jeans typically does the trick. When paired with my boots and long coat a large portion of my legs are covered. These items are always enough for me, but if you're visiting a colder location, you may want to add a base layer as well.
Must Haves
Sweaters, sweatshirts, or lined flannels paired with jeans or slacks
Optional
Base layers
Dressing for Cold Weather - Tops - Montana Living
Winter Sport Items
When dressing for Winter sports, creative layering is the key. For skiing I typically wear three layers.
When dressing for Winter sports, creative layering is the key. For skiing I typically wear three layers. A base layer which consists of a top and leggings in a moisture wicking sport material. A middle layer consisting of fleece. Fleece is warm, cozy, and also repels moisture. And finally, an outer layer of snow pants and a ski jacket which are both water wicking as well.
Dressing for Cold Weather - Base Layers - Montana Living
Additionally, you will want hand and toe warmers, gloves or mittens, long wool socks as mentioned above, and boots for the desired activity or sport. For skiing, I also add a fleece neck gaiter, goggles, and a helmet for safety.
Pictured below are the components of my Winter sportswear.
Dressing for Cold Weather - Winter Sportswear - Montana Living
That completes my Winter clothing setup. I went snow shoeing in six degree weather with the sportswear pictured above and actually got hot and had to take my mittens off for part of the journey. Remember, you can always take layers off if you get too hot, but if you don't properly prepare, your experience will be cold and miserable. I hope this helps you get outside and enjoy the snow. If you feel I've missed anything or have additional questions leave a comment below.
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