A Primer on Winter Camping: Part 2 - Clothing

It's all About Layers, Onions Know What's Up

It's important to realize that if you do not have the proper clothing, you will without a doubt be miserable. And the key is not to go find the warmest, biggest, puffiest jacket on the market, this is the "what not to do" when looking to keep yourself warm. The important rule to keep in mind when preparing your winter wardrobe is that you will generally go with three to four layers: a base layer, middle layer, and outer layer. Then you can add another outer (shell) layer to keep dry depending on if your outer layer is waterproof and windproof.

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Base Layer

This layer is the thinnest layer. It will be the layer that absorbs all of your sweat. An ideal base layer is one that attracts moisture and transfers your sweat to the middle layer. The base layer is also called the moisture wick. The worst possible thing you could do is use cotton as the base layer. You will absolutely stay wet and cold. In any event that you sweat excessively, it's always a good idea to keep an extra base layer handy just in case you need to swap a dry one out for the wet one, especially if you sweat and the temperature suddenly drops. Look for any kind of synthetic-like materials to use for this layer (wool/silk/polyester).


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Middle Layer

Again, the idea is not to buy a single thick piece of clothing for your middle layer. Depending on the temperature, buy one to three middle layers. The middle layer is designed to be the insulation by trapping your body heat and keeping it in. Do not use cotton, there are other materials that will do a better job of keeping in the heat. I have found that wool and fleece make for great middle layers.

Outer Layer/Shell Layer

The outer layer is your heaviest, warmest layer. A heavy article of clothing would be okay, but I would recommend a lightweight, down jacket that doubles as a waterproof/windproof shell. Oh, pick something that looks good too, this is the layer that everyone will look at in the photos that you take on your winter expedition.

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If you don't end up getting a waterproof/windproof outer layer, you should consider buying a wind breaker to keep the wind and rain off of your clothes.

Socks

It's a good idea to have a very thin (non-cotton) sock underneath a heavy wool sock. This will keep you very warm. The base layer sock isn't a necessity though. Heavy wool socks will do just fine if you don't want to worry about the hassle of a base layer sock.

Tip: Buy long Johns. They are ridiculously warm and cozy.

Let's Talk Sleeping Bags

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Choosing a sleeping bag is easy. There are only a few things to consider. Choose a sleeping bag that's rated at least 10 degrees colder than the coldest temperature that you're expecting. All sleeping bags will consist of a either a synthetic stuffing or down material. Down is lighter and warmer, but when wet, loses the ability to retain heat and becomes useless. Synthetic bags will be heavier but slightly less warm. I prefer the lighter and warmer down sleeping bag.

Keep in mind that you should use a sleeping pad to put your bag on to help it last longer. It will also provide support and be more comfortable. If you opt for a less expensive bag that is not rated to withstand the low temperatures that you're going to be exposed to, you can always buy a sleeping bag liner for extra warmth.

Tip: You can always find the clothing, tents, sleeping bags, etc. at REI.com, however I encourage you to look around a little more to find what suits you best.

Tip: Place your socks in your sleeping bag to keep them warm and ready for use.