From Wendy Bumgardner,
Your Guide to Walking.
FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now!

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Dressing in Layers

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.
Compare Prices

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.
Compare Prices

Outer layer: To protect you from the elements, a windproof and water resistant jacket. It should be worn loosely.
Top Picks for Waterproof Jackets

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.
Top Picks for Walking Pants

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.

Accessories

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.
Top Picks for Hats and Ear Warmers

Gloves or mittens: Mittens will keep your hands the warmest as the fingers work together to build up warmth. Look for windproof mittens.
Compare Prices

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.
Top Picks for Single-Bottle Packs

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.
Compare prices

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.
Top Picks for Umbrellas

Happy Feet

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. Compare Prices

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. Compare Prices

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. Compare Prices

Next > Reward Yourself for Cold Weather Walking >Page 1, 2, 3