Winter - What to wear?

Wear clothing in layers to achieve three results; move moisture away from your body (wicking); trap air for insulation; and water/wind protection. See our winter check list.

Footwear
Winter boots should be large enough to be comfortable over two pairs of socks; a lightweight polypropylene pair and a heavier wool pair.

Pants
Wool or insulated snow pants worn as an outer layer or pile/fleece pants worn under a wind and water proof shell. Pockets with flaps or zippers will keep items in and snow out.

Tops
Over your long underwear, wear a woolen, fleece or pile shirt and/or sweater and/or insulated vest then your outer shell.

Mitts
Mitts are generally warmer than gloves because fingers are in direct contact with each other and can share heat. Gloves provide better dexterity while providing less heat. Keep a pair of gloves handy for doing camp chores.

Headgear
A wool, fleece or polypropylene tuque that can be pulled down over the ears makes an excellent first layer while a hood makes a great second layer. In extremely cold or windy weather, you may decide to add a scarf or neck warmer.

Night Wear
Before climbing into bed at night, change ALL your clothing - right down to your skin! Day time activities generate heat and moisture. If you wear these clothes to bed you will feel cold and clammy as the moisture is drawn away from your body. Wool socks, polypropylene long johns and/or fleece pants and a sweater work well. These clothes can even be worn on the next day, just remember to put some pants over your long johns!

Taken from: Field Book for Canadian Scouting.