What’s the Best Gear for Winter Hiking? Explore Our Cold-Weather Essentials & New Season Highlights
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As the winter chill sets in and the world transforms into a snow-draped wonderland, outdoor enthusiasts know that this season offers some of the most stunning landscapes and exhilarating adventures. Whether you’re trekking through frost-covered forests or summiting snow-capped peaks, winter hiking delivers a unique blend of serenity and thrill. But to fully enjoy this experience, having the right gear is not just helpful—it’s essential for your safety and comfort.
Winter conditions can be unpredictable, with icy trails, deep snow, and biting winds presenting real challenges for hikers. That’s where technical gear comes in, designed specifically to combat these harsh elements. From thermal layers to crampons, we’ve rounded up the best cold-weather essentials for AW24/25, ensuring you're well-equipped for everything the season throws your way.
Insulated Boots
Your boots are your first line of defence against the cold. Insulated, waterproof boots with robust traction ensure that your feet stay dry and warm, allowing you to hike with confidence across slippery or snowy terrain. Footwear that protects from frostbite and provides stability is essential for tackling frozen landscapes, and these picks offer just that.
Thermal Layers
Winter hiking is all about layering. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat at bay, then add a warm, insulating mid-layer like fleece or down, and top it off with a weatherproof shell to guard against wind and snow. This three-layer system ensures you stay warm and dry even in the harshest conditions.
If you'd like to know more about layering for winter, you can read our blog on How to Keep Warm In The Snow.
Warm Hats & Gloves
Protecting your head, hands, and neck is crucial in cold weather. A thermal hat, gloves, and neck gaiter will keep heat from escaping while shielding you from the wind. These accessories are small but vital for maintaining comfort and preventing heat loss in freezing temperatures.
Snow Gaiters
Snow gaiters prevent the snow from getting into your boots and soaking your legs, allowing you to hike through deep snow without discomfort. Durable and easy to wear, they provide that extra layer of protection against cold and wet conditions.
Crampons
Snow and ice can turn even the easiest trails into treacherous paths. Crampons and microspikes give you the traction you need to walk confidently on icy surfaces, reducing the risk of falls and injuries during your winter adventures.
Socks
When it comes to winter hiking, don’t underestimate the importance of a good pair of socks. High-quality winter socks provide crucial insulation, wick moisture away from your feet, and reduce the risk of blisters and cold-related injuries. Opt for socks made from wool or advanced synthetic materials that offer both warmth and breathability. A well-chosen sock can make all the difference, keeping your feet comfortable and protected through long, cold hikes. Make sure your sock game is as strong as your gear game, and your winter adventures will be all the more enjoyable.
First Aid Kit & Survival Shelter
In the unpredictable winter wilderness, having a well-stocked first aid kit and survival shelter is crucial for safety. A comprehensive first aid kit should include supplies for treating common injuries and ailments, such as cuts, blisters, sprains, and hypothermia. Alongside these essentials, a survival shelter like an emergency bivvy bag or thermal blanket can provide critical protection in unforeseen circumstances. These tools can make a significant difference in an emergency, helping you stay safe and comfortable until help arrives or conditions improve.
Including a first aid kit and survival shelter in your gear ensures that you are prepared for emergencies, enabling you to handle unexpected situations with confidence. Stay safe, stay prepared, and embrace the adventure with peace of mind.
Insulated Sleeping Bags (For Overnight Hikes)
For winter camping, a well-insulated sleeping bag is essential. Designed for sub-zero temperatures, these sleeping bags will keep you warm through the coldest nights, letting you enjoy your snow-bound camping experience without worry.
Essential Accessories
Don’t forget about the little things that make a big difference in cold conditions. Protect your eyes from glare with high-quality sunglasses or goggles, and carry an insulated flask to keep your beverages warm, giving you a bit of comfort in the cold.
Navigation Tools
Ensure you have the necessary Navigation Tools, such as a map, compass, and GPS device.
It's also wise to have a backup power source for electronic devices, like a portable solar charger or power bank.
Head Torches
As daylight fades, a reliable head torch becomes indispensable for winter adventures. Whether you're setting up camp in the dark, navigating a trail, or preparing a meal after sunset, a head torch provides essential hands-free lighting. Modern head torches offer adjustable brightness settings, long battery life, and durable designs that can withstand the elements. They are lightweight and comfortable to wear, ensuring you can move freely while keeping your path well-lit. Additionally, many head torches come with features like red light modes to preserve night vision and SOS signals for emergencies.
Conclusion
Winter hiking isn’t just a challenge; it’s an adventure into the wild, where snow-blanketed landscapes stretch before you, and the quiet of the season amplifies the natural beauty around every corner. Equipped with the right gear, you can explore the most remote and rugged terrains, push your limits, and experience nature at its rawest and most breathtaking.
At Absolute-Snow, we’re passionate about helping you gear up for your next big adventure. Whether it’s your first time hiking in winter or you’re a seasoned pro, our AW24/25 collection has everything you need to stay warm, dry, and safe on the trail. So lace up your boots, pack your bag, and step into the season fully prepared. Winter’s calling—are you ready to answer?
Want to learn more? Check out our blog on How to Keep Warm In The Snow.
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Check out our full Hiking & Outdoor Adventure Kit List today or explore all our Hiking and Camping departments!
2024/5 Highlights: What to Watch Out For this Year
Berghaus Summit-Nomad Down Insulated Jacket
The Berghaus Summit-Nomad Down Jacket is your ultimate cold-weather companion, built for adventurers who demand warmth, comfort, and performance. Whether you’re carving down snowy slopes, hiking frosty trails, or strolling through a winter wonderland, this jacket delivers everything you need to stay cosy and dry.
Packed with 800-fill power hydrophobic goose down, the Summit-Nomad offers incredible insulation without the bulk, so you stay toasty without feeling weighed down. The water-repellent finish keeps light rain and snow at bay, while the adjustable hood and elasticated cuffs lock in warmth, sealing out those icy chills. With multiple pockets to stash your essentials and a packable design for easy storage, it’s as functional as it is stylish.
Perfect for skiing trips, winter hikes, or everyday wear, the Summit-Nomad is a must-have for anyone ready to embrace the season. Lightweight, warm, and effortlessly practical, this jacket proves why Berghaus is trusted by explorers worldwide. Gear up today and make your next winter adventure unforgettable!
Osprey Firn Ski Mountaineering Backpack
The Osprey Firn 18 is the ultimate companion for fast-paced ski mountaineering and technical alpine missions. Designed for athletes who demand agility and efficiency, this pack excels on steep ascents and thrilling descents. Its lightweight, vest-style fit hugs your body for maximum stability, allowing you to scramble, climb, and ski without missing a beat.
Key features like the ambidextrous ski lasso system let you secure your skis without removing the pack, so transitions are seamless. The snow-shedding back panel keeps it light and dry, while the dedicated crampon and avalanche gear compartments ensure quick access when it counts.
Whether you’re tackling snowy scrambles or navigating steep couloirs, the Firn 18 is engineered to move with you. Made with durable, bluesign®-approved recycled materials, it’s as eco-conscious as it is performance-driven.
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The North Face Summit Verbier GTX Jacket
Take on the harshest winter conditions with confidence in the North Face Summit Verbier GTX Jacket—designed for skiers and snowboarders who demand top-tier protection. Built with a three-layer GORE-TEX® shell, this jacket delivers unbeatable waterproofing and breathability to keep you comfortable on the mountain, no matter how extreme the weather.
Perfect for backcountry adventures and off-piste escapades, the Verbier GTX features essential performance details, including a helmet-compatible hood, zipped underarm vents for on-the-go temperature control, and a powder skirt to keep the snow out when you're carving through deep powder. Multiple storage pockets mean you’ll always have room for your mountain essentials.
Designed for serious alpine enthusiasts, this jacket is not just a layer—it’s your ultimate partner for conquering the peaks. Engineered with eco-conscious materials, the Verbier GTX combines sustainable craftsmanship with all-out performance, so you can ride with purpose and style.
Haglofs Rosson Down Hood Jacket
The Haglöfs Rosson Down Hood is perfect for staying cosy in cold, outdoor environments while allowing freedom of movement. Whether you're hiking, trekking, or enjoying casual outings in chilly weather, this jacket keeps you warm and ready for any adventure.
Built for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday winter wearers, the Rosson Down Hood shines in dry, cold conditions. It can also be layered under a shell for extra protection during wet weather. The high-quality 600 CUIN fill power down insulation and Mimic Sheet SILVER & GOLD insulation deliver unbeatable warmth, while the water-repellent finish fends off light rain or snow.
Lightweight and easily packable, it’s the ultimate travel companion, ensuring comfort without bulk. Features like an adjustable hood, elasticated cuffs and hem, and zippered hand pockets make this jacket as practical as it is stylish. Plus, it’s made with recycled materials and responsibly sourced down for a sustainable choice.
Ready to take on winter? The Haglöfs Rosson Down Hood is waiting for you!
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The North Face Summit Futurefleece
Gear up for your next epic expedition with the The North Face Summit Futurefleece, designed for those who thrive in the extremes. Lightweight, breathable, and packable, this technical mid-layer is perfect for high-alpine climbs, mountaineering challenges, or any adventure where performance is key.
Built with Futurefleece fabric, this pullover delivers an impressive warmth-to-weight ratio, keeping you cosy without adding unnecessary bulk. Whether layered under a shell in icy conditions or worn solo during high-output efforts, its seamless shoulders and underarm gussets ensure maximum comfort and mobility. Plus, integrated thumb loops provide extra coverage when battling the chill.
From steep ascents to rugged trails, the Summit Futurefleece LT moves with you, keeping you focused on your goals, not your gear. Add this essential to your layering system and experience the unbeatable combination of warmth, breathability, and freedom of movement. Ready to reach new heights? Explore the Summit Series today!
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